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Service Information can be found on the Obituaries Page
* Anita Anson, 94, of Atkinson private service
* Gary Wayne Stoeger, 65, of Quartzite, Ariz., formerly of Valentine 11 a.m. March 7
* Judy Obermire, 81, of Atkinson 10:30 a.m. March 4
* Meeting reports located below for:
Feb. 24 Primary Election candidate filings
Feb. 20 Brown County Commissioners
Feb. 11 Ainsworth City Council
Feb. 10 Ainsworth Community Schools Board of Education
Feb. 3 Brown County Commissioners
* Brown County Commissioners Tuesday agenda
(Posted 1:45 p.m. March 2)
Brown County Commissioners
Meeting 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 3
Brown County Courthouse
Agenda
Roll Call
Acknowledge posting of Open Meetings Law
Opening Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Approve minutes of the 2-17-2026 regular meeting
Approve minutes of the 2-11-2026 special meeting
1:20 Authorization for Brown/Rock County to apply for the Slip-on Tanker Pilot Program grant through the Department of Interior
Authorize Brown County to apply for FY 2027 Community Project Funding for the Sandhills Care Center
Kenneth Turpin Road Department update
1:30 Open sealed Bids for Armor Coating for the 2026 season – Turpin
1:30 Hearing to review the One & Six Year Highway Improvement Program for Brown County
Part time pay rates for Dan Carson & Crit Mitchell – Turpin
Employee Handbook – Clerk
Approve new route for isolated lands – Board
Sign lawn care contract
Employee Handbook
Approve Claims
Correspondence
Public Comment
ADJOURN
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9 a.m. March 2)
February 22
A deputy assisted with a trailer that was blocking a parking area at a local business in Ainsworth.
Deputies responded to a dispute between neighbors in rural Brown County. Both involved parties were spoken to and given warnings to stay off each other’s property.
February 23
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Long Pine and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A deputy investigated the area of a 911 hangup in rural Brown County. The deputy did not find anything out of the ordinary in the area from which the call originated.
A deputy responded to a report of a careless driver on Highway 20. The deputy was unable to locate the described vehicle.
February 24
The sheriff’s office was notified of a probation warrant for a person in the area. The sheriff and deputies attempted to locate the individual.
A traffic stop was made in rural Brown County. The driver was given a written warning for not having the correct year’s tabs on their license plate, a repair order for brake lights not working properly and a verbal warning for turning too wide.
February 25
The sheriff investigated a vehicle-deer accident on Highway 20 near Long Pine.
The sheriff assisted a resident in Ainsworth with a possible scam.
The sheriff helped an individual with a complaint about registering their vehicle in Nebraska.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for no registration on their vehicle.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for improper and defective vehicle lighting.
A deputy investigated a report of a suspicious vehicle in an alley in Ainsworth. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary, as the vehicle was parked on private property and not blocking the alley.
February 26
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a citation for driving 10 mph over the posted speed limit and also received a written warning for not having a current copy of their insurance card in the vehicle.
February 27
The sheriff investigated abandoned property reported on the Cowboy Trail.
The sheriff’s office assisted with notifying a resident that they forgot to pay for their gas.
The sheriff and a deputy assisted DHHS with an investigation with a family in Ainsworth.
The sheriff and a deputy investigated the area of a 911 hangup call just north of Ainsworth. Nothing out of the ordinary was found in the area.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for not stopping at a stop sign.
February 28
A deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 7.
A deputy responded to a verbal altercation between household members in Ainsworth. The deputy spoke with the two individuals involved and de-escalated the situation between the parties.
The sheriff’s office received a lost cell phone. The owner of the cell phone was contacted, and the cell phone was returned to its owner.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 824
Calls for Service – 15
911 emergency calls – 9
Firearm permits purchased – 5
Vehicle titles inspected – 6
Jail inmates housed – 7
* Area recreational sites receive upgrades
(Posted 6:45 a.m. Feb. 27)
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is reinvesting into the state’s recreational resources to enhance outdoor experiences, support state tourism, and provide safe and accessible amenities in state park areas and trails. Completed projects will appeal to an array of park users, from campers to anglers.
Among the projects receiving funding were:
Cowboy Recreation and Nature Trail – After being damaged by the historic 2019 flood, more than $34,000 in Capital Maintenance Funds were used to restore a section of trail just east of Long Pine to pre-flood conditions, including removing debris and fallen trees. Federal Emergency Management Agency funds also were used.
Long Pine State Recreation Area – A design was completed for a new electrical campground and shower house, ADA access, as well as road milling and overlay. The project cost more than $66,000 in CMF funds and used LWCF dollars as well.
Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area – Twenty new 50-amp campsites and a shower house were built between Cedar Bay and West Beeds, including ADA accessibility, to enhance revenue potential. This project used more than $575,000 in CMF funds. Federal dollars also were used.
Plum Creek Wildlife Management Area – A fishing node adjacent to the boat ramp was removed for public safety after sustaining significant damage. A new, roll-in dock system that fluctuates with changing water levels was installed using $12,000 in CMF funds. Also used with Sport Fish Restoration Grant funds and the agency’s Game Cash Fund.
The projects funded by Capital Maintenance and Land and Water Conservation Funds improve safety and accessibility, protect natural habitats, boost local economies, and ensure long-term sustainability. These investments create more welcoming parks for everyone to enjoy now and in the future.
Capital Maintenance Funds were established by the Nebraska Legislature to help preserve Nebraska’s public outdoor recreation facilities and parklands. These, as well as state and federal funding sources, and Nebraska Game and Parks’ funds generated from user fees of the state park system, funded these park improvement projects.
* Recent cases from Brown County Court
(Posted 2 p.m. Feb. 26)
In addition to fines, each case carries $50 in court costs
Jeffrey T. Rief, age 63, of Brookings, S.D., charged with speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, fined $75.
Louis A. Maring, 51, of Merna, speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Amanda K. Dittman, 45, of Norfolk, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Nicholas L. England, 46, of Fargo, N.D., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Diette M. Glenn, 67, of Ainsworth, speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Donald C. Windsperger, 63, of Colome, S.D., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Amber M. Polen, 42, of Ainsworth, third offense driving under the influence, $1,000, also sentenced to 30 days in jail with credit for three days served, one year of probation, driver’s license revoked for two years, and ordered to install an ignition interlock device.
Brandon J. Potts, 29, of Stratford, Iowa, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Dolores Tritle, 60, of Albert Lea, Minn., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Jennifer N. Vonheeder, 52, of Ainsworth, second degree criminal trespassing, ordered to pay a court costs only judgment.
Kristina L. Gunwall, 53, of Ainsworth, driving under the influence with a blood-alcohol content of 0.15 or greater, $500, also sentenced to six months of probation, driver’s license revoked for one year, and ordered to install an ignition interlock device.
Hunter C. Clark, 23, of Lincoln, no operator’s license, $75.
Kira B. Simmons, 27, of Sioux Falls, S.D., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Jordan S. Highelk, 31, of Plankinton, S.D., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Noah W. Nielson, 19, of Littleton, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Morgan L. Crider, 27, of Miami, Fla., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Stash M. Otto, 41, of Jefferson, Wis., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Tenchi M. Porter, 24, of Cedar Falls, Iowa, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
David W. Moe, 48, of Alexandria, Minn., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Amanda K. Murphy, 44, of Springview, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
James D. Clopton, 62, of Ainsworth, failure to yield the right of way, $25.
Madison M. Svenson, 22, of Marquette, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Austen J. Neill, 31, of Fremont, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Katherine A. Kusek, 40, of Albion, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Britt T. Hollenbeck, 24, of Long Pine, careless driving, $100.
Kent S. Zook, 66, of Grand Island, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
S Fernandez Arcipreste-Peralta, 50, of Ainsworth, no valid registration, $25.
* Non-incumbent filing deadline is March 2
(Posted 2 p.m. Feb. 24)
The deadline for non-incumbents to file for elected offices appearing on the May Primary Election is fast approaching. The final day to file for those seeking elected office for the first time is Monday, March 2. Candidates may file for office in the county clerk’s office. In some cases, there is a filing fee due when filing for office.
In Brown County, three candidates have filed for county commissioner for two expiring seats. All three candidates are Republicans, including incumbent Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey. Patrick Brede and Thomas Jones have filed for commissioner. Incumbent Dennis Bauer did not seek another four-year term.
Two candidates have filed as Republicans for county sheriff. Incumbent Sheriff Brent Deibler is being challenged by current Nebraska State Trooper Aaron Nilson.
Current Clerk Travis Hobbs, Treasurer Bruce Mitchell and Assessor Peggy Gross do not yet face a challenge in their bids for re-election.
County Attorney Andy Taylor did not file for another term in office. Republican Reagan Wiebelhaus has filed for the county attorney position.
Kevin Shaul is the sole candidate thus far for Ainsworth Mayor. Incumbent Mayor Joel Klammer did not seek another term in office. Incumbent Ainsworth City Council members Dustin Barthel and Bradley Fiala do not yet face any opposition. If four or fewer candidates file for City Council, the item will not appear on the Primary ballot.
Three incumbents on the Ainsworth Community Schools Board of Education whose terms are expiring filed for re-election. Those board members are Frank Beel, Jessica Pozehl and Bryan Doke. If six or fewer candidates file for the Board of Education, that item will not appear until the General Election.
Two candidates have filed for Long Pine City Council, incumbent Bryan Sanford and non-incumbent Michael Stogner. Incumbent Linda Alberts did not seek another term on the council.
Incumbent Pamela Lynn Clay filed for another term on the Johnstown Village Board, and Jimmy Ferguson has also filed for a seat on the Village Board.
In Rock County, both incumbent Republican Commissioners Colby Sybrant and Faye Smith filed for re-election and do not yet face challengers.
Republican incumbents filing for re-election include Sheriff Benjamin Shelbourn, Clerk Daunitta Buoy and Assessor TJ Ellermeier.
Current Treasurer Mona Davis did not file for another term in office. Republican Lacey Friedrich is the lone candidate for treasurer thus far.
Six candidates have filed for the Rock County Public Schools Board of Education, none of them incumbents. Lucas Fischer, Joshua Severin, Courtney Knox, Rebecca Kroll, Johanna Babcock and Tamara Nielsen have filed for seats on the school board. If one additional candidate files prior to the Monday, March 2, non-incumbent deadline, the race will appear on the May Primary ballot.
Tonya Larson, Kristy Beard and Tim Shaw did not file for additional four-year terms on the Board of Education.
Tyler Ammon filed for a four-year term on the KBR Rural Public Power Board of Directors.
Joshua Wright filed for the six-year board seat representing Rock County on the KBR Rural Public Power Board.
Incumbent Reno Gordon and non-incumbent Michael LeZotte have filed for seats on the Bassett City Council.
In Keya Paha County, current East District Commissioner John Frederick faces a challenge from Thomas Munk in the Republican Primary. Republican incumbent Corey Nilson is thus far running unopposed for another term as Center District Commissioner.
Kyle Linse has filed as a Republican for Keya Paha County sheriff. Current Sheriff Jeff Kirsch is not seeking another term.
Incumbent Republican Treasurer AnneJeanette Painter and Republican Clerk/Assessor Suzy Wentworth are currently running unopposed for additional four-year terms in office.
Incumbent Blaine Kinney filed for an additional four-year term on the Keya Paha County Public Schools Board of Education. Darcy Wiebelhaus and Todd Painter did not file for additional terms, and Kinney is thus far the only candidate for the three expiring seats.
Non-incumbents have until the close of business Monday, March 2, to file for offices appearing on the May Primary Ballot. KBRB will provide an additional update following the non-incumbent deadline.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 10 a.m. Feb. 23)
February 15
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for a taillight not working properly.
The sheriff’s office received a report of an injured bald eagle on Highway 7. A deputy contacted the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received citations for driving 11 mph over the posted speed limit and white lights displayed to the rear of the vehicle.
February 16
Deputies provided traffic control for a funeral procession.
Deputies took part in firearms training at the shooting range in Brown County.
February 17
Deputies provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20 east of Ainsworth.
The sheriff provided testimony opposing a bill in the Legislature that would abolish the Nebraska Brand Committee.
Long Pine, Ainsworth, Johnstown, Raven, Calamus, and Rock County fire departments along with mutual aid fire departments responded to a fire southeast of Long Pine near the Brown County and Rock County line.
The Brown County Ambulance Association provided standby service for the firefighters battling the fire southeast of Long Pine.
Deputies responded to individuals disturbing each other’s peace in Ainsworth. Both people involved were given verbal warnings to leave each other alone.
February 18
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
A written warning was given to a motorist for speeding on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth.
The sheriff took of a report of harassment between neighbors in Long Pine. The reported person doing the harassing was contacted and was told to stop harassing his neighbor.
Deputies assisted a gas station in Ainsworth with contacting an individual in Brown County who forgot to pay for their gas.
February 19
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for no registration in the vehicle.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transfer of a patient.
February 20
The sheriff arrested an individual in Ainsworth with a bench warrant for multiple counts of child sexual abuse material.
Deputies received a report of a suspicious vehicle parked at the end of their driveway in rural Brown County. Deputies contacted the driver, who indicated he was tired and had pulled over to sleep. The driver continued driving west on Highway 20.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for driving 15 mph over the posted speed limit and also received a written warning for no driver’s license on person.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver was arrested on a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol and received citations for no registration and no proof of insurance.
February 21
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
The Brown County Jail released two inmates after receiving payment on the bond set forth by the courts.
The Ainsworth, Long Pine and South Pine fire departments responded to a reported fire near Long Pine.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for an unsecured load of hay.
Traffic stops were made on Highway 20 and Highway 7. The drivers each received a citation for traveling 11 mph over the posted speed limit.
Deputies arrested an individual in Ainsworth with a bench warrant for drug related charges and not appearing in county court.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth for a vehicle driving 89 mph. Both the driver and the passenger were placed under arrest and booked into the Brown County Jail. The driver was arrested on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) and received citations for driving 24 mph over the posted speed limit, minor in possession of alcohol, possession of an open alcohol container, minor in possession of tobacco, and possession of drug paraphernalia. The passenger was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) and had an extraditable warrant from Custer County. The passenger also received citations for minor in possession of alcohol, possession of an open alcohol container, minor in possession of tobacco, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 1014
Calls for service – 13
911 emergency calls – 5
Vehicle titles inspected – 3
Firearms permits purchased – 3
Jail inmates housed – 6
* Lions Club makes donation to pond upgrades
(Posted 9:30 a.m. Feb. 20)
The Ainsworth Lions Club met February 16.
The application to the Ainsworth Betterment Committee on behalf of the Lions Club for funding in the amount of $15,000 for the Phase 3 project for the Community Fishing Pond was presented to the Ainsworth City Council with a recommendation to be approved. The city council approved the amount.
In previous action, the club had agreed to donate $1,000 to the pond project and apply to the District 38I Assistance Fund to provide matching funds in the amount of $500. After discussion, the club agreed to earmark those funds to assist in purchasing picnic tables for the shelter when it is built. An application will be made to the District 38I Assistance Fund for the matching funds when that purchase is ready. The club also agreed to volunteer to assist in the construction of the shelter when that takes place.
The club received a newsletter from the Ainsworth Child Development Center that was sent to past supporters of their organization, providing updates and seeking additional support. The Ainsworth Lions Club had donated funds to ACDC as they were beginning the formation of their entity and later donated funds to their tuition assistance fund to assist families with tuition. The club approved a motion to donate $500 to ACDC for tuition assistance.
Arrangements have been made with the Natural Resources District and the school for the Fourth Grade Forester Project, which is scheduled for April 24. The annual All-Sports Tailgate will be held at McAndrew Gymnasium on April 28.
The Ainsworth Lions Club’s next regular meeting will be held Monday, March 16, at noon in the Ainsworth Senior Center.
* Commissioners hear process for federal bridge funds
(Posted 7:15 a.m. Feb. 20)
Highway Superintendent Kenny Turpin reported to the Brown County Commissioners Tuesday a kickoff meeting was held recently for the $897,000 in federal funding that was awarded to Brown County for bridge replacement projects.
Turpin said all of the funding will flow through the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
“We are going to have to use a state engineer on some of the projects,” Turpin said.
The highway superintendent said he was hoping to have the Matteos from Norfolk Contracting handle all of the bridge work.
“But it looks like they will only be able to do the rehab projects,” Turpin said. “I was hoping we would have a little more control, but it was still good to receive that $897,000.”
Turpin said the county is responsible for paying 20 percent of the cost of the bridge rehabilitation and replacement projects included for federal funding support.
The highway superintendent also reported Tuesday the roads department had sealed cracks in the asphalt on 432nd Avenue and 433rd Avenue. He said the department still needs to crack seal portions of Meadville Avenue, 431st Avenue, 432nd Avenue north of Highway 20, and 423rd Avenue near the airport.
“Anything we can get sealed up and keep the moisture out will help those roads last longer,” Turpin said.
The board previously approved the purchase of equipment to allow the roads department to handle crack sealing instead of having to contract for the work.
Turpin said the roads department had cleaned more than 30 culverts south of Long Pine, and was removing trees from Road 886.
In other items Tuesday, the commissioners appointed deputy emergency manager Jessica Pozehl to serve as the grant manager for the Community Wildfire Defense Fund grant.
The board approved moving forward with advertising for a full-time position for a weed superintendent/roads department employee.
Turpin said one person had expressed interest in the position.
“I think he would be a good candidate,” Turpin said. “If I am going to be in charge of that position, I should probably take the training too.”
Turpin said none of the current roads department employees wanted to take on the weed superintendent position. The board will advertise for the opening.
North Central Development Center Executive Director Kristin Olson asked the commissioners if they would be willing to have the county be the applicant for a potential tanker grant for fire departments in the county.
“Jessica Pozehl and I started looking at this grant,” Olson said. “Brown County is rated at high risk for wildfire.”
The grant would be for tanks to be placed on fire department vehicles.
Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey said he was not in favor of the grant, as it would likely require fire departments to purchase additional chassis to place the tanks.
“We have numerous businesses already supplying tankers,” Dailey said.
Emergency Manager Traci Booth said the grant was for small tanks that could be placed on ATVs and UTVs.
Olson said the grant would not require the purchase of any new vehicles.
Commissioner Denny Bauer said, like Dailey, he was also thinking the grant was for large tanks for trucks.
The board opted to table the item until its March 3 meeting for more details on the application.
In a final action item, the commissioners approved renewing a contract with Paulson’s Lawn Service for maintaining the courthouse grounds. Jerry Paulson said there would be no change from the previous contract.
Bauer said, “We are happy if you are happy. We will have the county attorney draw up a contract renewal.”
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. March 3.
* Erthum named grant manager for CWDF grant
(Posted 9:30 a.m. Feb. 18)
The Rock County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday.
Traci Booth met with the commissioners on the appointment of a grant manager for the Community Wildfire Defense Fund grant. Scott Erthum visited with the commissioners about being the grant manager, and the board approved having Erthum serve as the county’s grant manager for the federal funds.
The board approved the NMC quote for the courthouse generator for a three-year annual inspection at a cost of $1,370 annually.
Treasurer Mona Davis, Clerk Daunitta Buoy, Sheriff Ben Shelbourn and Ally Grant from the assessor’s office met with the commissioners regarding a new water station from Culligan for the main floor and the sheriff’s office. Seven Springs has closed. The board approved having Culligan install new water coolers in the courthouse.
Grant met with the commissioners about the ambulance-deer accident. Main Street Auto submitted a quote for $474. The ambulance barn door damage was discussed. Grant received two quotes from the city for the door damage. Elite Door’s quote was $6125.65 for a new door. JP Construction quoted $600 for labor and $2,245.92 for parts for a bid of $2,845.92. The JP Construction bid was approved.
North Central Development Center Executive Director Kristin Olson met with the commissioners on a grant application for fire equipment for all Rock County fire departments. The county would need to be the grant applicant. The item was tabled until the board’s March 3 meeting.
The commissioners discussed the roads department’s storage of signs at the airport. There is nothing written between the two entities for storing the signs. County Attorney Kurt Arganbright will work on an agreement for the storage space the county uses at the airport.
Fiber optic lines were discussed for the courthouse and Rock County Public Library. Both sites have internet issues. Buoy has been in contact with Fastwyre and Applied Connective. The commissioners approved having county officials move forward with getting fiber optic to their offices and to the library.
The next meeting of the Rock County Commissioners is scheduled for 1 p.m. March 3.
* Tuesday night fire leads to response from 14 departments
(Posted 7:45 a.m. Feb. 18)
A Tuesday evening fire south of Highway 20 near the Brown County and Rock County line was pushed by strong winds and dry conditions, prompting the response of 14 area volunteer fire departments.
According to Ainsworth Fire Chief Brad Fiala, the fire started at approximately 8:15 p.m. Tuesday and was caused by strong winds sparking power lines. Fiala said the fire began south of the old drive-in movie theater and spread southeast across several cornfields.
“I have never seen fire move across cornfields like that,” Fiala said. “The flames were pretty high.”
Fiala said the fire burned into four or five tree groves and about the same number of bale piles as it spread southeast toward RK Feeders.
Fire departments from Valentine east to O’Neill provided mutual aid to firefighters from Brown and Rock counties. Fiala said firefighters were able to stop the leading edge of the fire by about 11 p.m.
The fire chief said firefighters will spend Wednesday mopping up hot spots, cutting down trees and breaking up bale piles that were impacted by the fire. He said firefighters worked Tuesday night to protect one home in the potential path of the fire approximately 1 mile west of RK Feeders.
The fire burned approximately 800 acres. No structures were reported damaged.
* Storer discusses brand bills, other items
(Posted 7 a.m. Feb. 18)
Nebraska 43rd District State Sen. Tanya Storer discussed bills in the Legislature that would drastically change Nebraska’s brand inspection program.
Storer also discussed with KBRB’s Graig Kinzie other bills she introduced that were working their way through the Legislature. The conversation can be heard below.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 10 a.m. Feb. 16)
February 8
Deputies and the Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a motorcycle accident on Highway 7.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received citations for no registration in the vehicle, no proof of insurance and unlawful display of fictious plates.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for an unsecured load of hay.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A deputy helped get cattle back into a pasture in rural Brown County.
February 9
An inmate was booked into the Brown County Jail for a court ordered commitment.
A deputy responded to a report of suspicious activity of a person in their backyard in Ainsworth. This is an ongoing investigation.
The sheriff’s office contacted the owners of cattle that were out on Highway 20. The cattle were moved off the highway.
A deputy assisted a motorist with a broken-down semi-truck on Highway 183 near Kellar State Park.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for driving on the shoulder of the highway.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a verbal warning for failing to maintain lane and given a citation for their driver’s license being expired.
February 10
The sheriff provided security during district court in Ainsworth.
Deputies took a complaint of possible harassment.
February 11
The sheriff assisted with removing cattle from Highway 20.
The sheriff’s office was notified of a runaway juvenile. The sheriff was able to locate the juvenile walking on the Cowboy Trail west of Ainsworth.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
Deputies responded to a report of suspicious activity in Ainsworth. Deputies spoke with people in the area and continued to patrol around the reported area in Ainsworth.
February 12
A deputy assisted the Brown County Hospital with contacting a person in Ainsworth.
The sheriff and deputies assisted with blocking traffic around Ainsworth Community Schools during a fire drill.
The sheriff responded to the Brown County Courthouse after receiving an automated call for help. The sheriff checked on everyone and reported that everything was alright.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for a headlight not working.
Deputies patrolled an area in rural Brown County after multiple 911 hang ups.
February 13
The Brown County Jail released an inmate to the issuing law enforcement agency who was being held on a extraditable warrant.
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20.
The sheriff is investigating a reported theft in Brown County.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth.
Two written warnings were issued for speeding. One written warning was given for driving on the shoulder of the highway on Highway 20. A repair order for defective vehicle lighting was issued to a motorist on Highway 183.
February 14
Two citations were issued for speeding, one on Highway 183 and the other on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth.
Two traffic stops were made in Ainsworth. Both drivers received repair orders for defective vehicle lighting.
Two traffic stops were made on Highway 20. Both drivers received written warnings for speeding.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 914
Calls for Service – 16
911 emergency calls – 7
Vehicle titles inspected – 3
Firearms permits purchased – 1
Jail inmates housed – 2
* Council discusses future of city museum
(Posted 7 p.m. Feb. 11)
Following a lengthy discussion Wednesday with members of the Sellors-Barton Cabin Advisory Board regarding the future of the museum and its contents, the Ainsworth City Council approved having a restoration specialist make the trip and provide recommendations on items that are salvageable and a cost estimate.
Sellors-Barton Cabin Museum Advisory Board member Danny Bennett thanked the council for allowing the group to discuss the future of the museum, located south of the Ainsworth Public Library, and its contents.
“Are you committed to moving forward with restoring the museum and the contents?” Bennett asked the council. “To walk away from this now would be a travesty. It is an invaluable part of our history.”
Mayor Joel Klammer said that would be a tough question for him to answer without knowing what it would cost to restore the mold-damaged contents of the museum and a long-term answer on where to house those items.
Bennett said questions were first raised about the mold issues in the museum in 2013.
“We can’t keep kicking the can down the road,” Bennett said. “We don’t see you prioritizing it. If you are not willing to move forward, we might as well all go home.”
Bennett said some of the items were likely beyond repair.
“Those that can be restored need to be moved,” he said. “We would like some kind of commitment.”
Councilman Brad Fiala said he would hate to see the museum and its contents go by the wayside, but the council would need an estimate on what it would cost to restore the contents.
Cabin Advisory Board member Cindy Buckles said the group met with the mayor and City Administrator Lisa Schroedl in September to discuss restoring the contents and provided information on a company in Omaha that does that type of work.
Schroedl said she has had contact with CRDN of Omaha on estimates to restore the damaged display items.
“I took a bunch of pictures of the building and the items,” Schroedl said. “We went back and forth. He said it would take a crew of five people working for a week.”
She said the rough estimate to restore the contents would be between $50,000 and $60,000. She said the company representative was willing to come to Ainsworth and look at the items at a cost of $1,000 and could provide a better idea of the items that could be restored and the cost.
She said the council included $20,000 for the museum in its current budget.
Fiala said he believed the building itself was too far gone to try and repair.
Councilman Dustin Barthel asked how much space the museum would need to display the current contents.
“It is pointless to clean it if there is not a place to go with it,” Barthel said.
Buckles said she had someone willing to pay for the cost of storing the items in a facility for one year while a decision is made on how to proceed.
“It is a great museum,” Buckles said. “It is amazing the amount of out of town people who came. We used to have school classes come in, they can’t now. This is our history.”
Buckles said the items were donated to the city by families to display and care for them.
“It is the city’s moral responsibility to care for those things,” Buckles said.
Klammer said a lot of cities refuse to accept donated items now unless there is a clear plan to fund the maintenance.
“Danny’s first question is the crux,” the mayor said. “How much are you willing to spending on it? I went back, they have been talking about mold issues for 30 years. It was a lower priority thing that has been kicked down the road. That is the reality.”
Fiala said spending $50,000 to $60,000 just to restore items would be difficult for the council to manage.
“I appreciate our volunteers,” Fiala said. “But what happens 10 years from now? Will we even have volunteers willing to keep it open?”
Barthel said it would be great if an area of the Ainsworth Public Library could be utilized to display the museum items after they are restored.
“I don’t know how much room you need, but it is climate controlled,” Barthel said.
Bennett said there would not be enough room in the library without adding on to the building.
“It already has traffic and it is already staffed,” Bennett said.
Fiala said he liked the idea of potentially adding on to the library and displaying the items there.
Barthel said, if there was a way to make that work, it would make sense.
“Or maybe use the north side of the movie theater building,” Barthel said.
Taylor said he believed the work of the museum group was similar to what the golf course does.
“It is city property and we give them some money, but they run it,” Taylor said. “I don’t see any way the council could spend $60,000 to clean it and $250,000 for a building.”
Audience member Graig Kinzie suggested the museum apply for a grant from the Brown County Visitors Committee to assist with the restoration project.
Commissioner Dennis Bauer said he visited with a member of the lodging tax committee and there was some potential funding available there.
“You need to have an idea of what you want to request,” Bauer said. “I strongly encourage you to visit with them.”
Barthel said he believed the council should have the company in Omaha come up and provide an idea of what was needed.
Fiala said, “It is going to be sad, because some things will just have to be thrown away. I think we are all in agreement that the structure is too far gone.”
Bennett said the restoration of the display items was critical.
Taylor said, whatever happens, the future of the museum will be run by volunteers with very little money from the city.
By a 3-0 vote with Councilwoman Heather Lutter absent, the council approved having CRDN make the trip to review the contents of the museum and provide the council with a scope of work.
Klammer said, “I would encourage the committee to come up with a plan for a permanent location.”
In other business Wednesday, the council approved recommendations from the Ainsworth Betterment Committee to award funding for two community projects.
The first was a $15,000 request from the Ainsworth Lions Club to fund the next phases of improvements at the community fishing pond.
“That is a great improvement to the community,” Fiala said. “A lot of people are using it.”
Bauer said the goal is to have all the improvements completed in time to hold an open house at the pond during alumni weekend in June.
The project includes concrete sidewalk to the fishing pier and around the pond’s perimeter that also connects to the Cowboy Trail to the south. Benches will be placed near the water’s edge with trees planted, and a picnic shelter would be constructed on the southwest side of the pond.
The city of Ainsworth submitted the second ABC application for $6,959 to purchase patriotic banners for the light pole brackets on Highway 20 and Main Street. Schroedl said the banners would be generic and could be used well into the future. She said she was working on a separate fund-raiser to purchase America’s 250th Birthday banners for display this year. Anyone willing to purchase one of those unique banners for display at a cost of $99 would be given the banner after 2026.
The council approved both ABC funding requests as recommended by the committee.
The council also approved a façade grant application in the amount of $5,741 to cover half the cost of new signage for an existing business. The LB 840 Loan Committee recommended the council approve the request.
In other action items Wednesday, the council approved a special designated liquor license request for Sandhills Lounge of Long Pine to serve alcohol during the Ainsworth Area Chamber of Commerce Gala March 28 in the Conference Center.
The council approved an ordinance having the council serve as the city’s Board of Adjustment and to disband the city’s Committee on Housing after Klammer said the funds previously handled by that committee had been reallocated. The council approved the ordinance and waived the three unique readings.
The council approved a recommendation from Klammer to appoint Ainsworth High School junior Kiley Orton to serve on the Ainsworth Betterment Committee for a term ending Sept. 15, 2027.
During her report, Schroedl said the city finally received $488,618 in FEMA reimbursement from the 2019 flooding. She said she was now working on submitting reimbursable administrative costs, which would finally close out the project. She said the funds were placed in the streets department fund.
Schroedl said the city’s sewer vac truck pump is not working and the cost to repair the pump on the 1994 truck would be $40,000. She said there were also other large repair bills potentially looming on the current truck.
She said there was a used 2018 truck available for $195,000. The city could lease the truck for seven years at $34,000 annually and then would own the truck after the lease period.
The council opted to schedule a special meeting for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, to make a decision on purchasing the 2018 truck since it was not specifically on Wednesday’s agenda.
The next meeting of the Ainsworth City Council is scheduled for 5 p.m. March 11.
* Schroedl discusses patriotic banners for city
(Posted 9:45 a.m. Feb. 11)
Ainsworth City Administrator Lisa Schroedl appeared on KBRB’s Open Line program Wednesday to discuss the purchase of patriotic banners for the light poles on Highway 20 and Main Street to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
Schroedl said the city is encouraging businesses and community members to consider purchasing an American 250 banner for display this year at a cost of $99. At the end of the year, those who donated an America 250 banner will receive it for private display. Contact the city office for more information.
The conversation can be heard below.
* UNMC recognizes fall Dean’s List students
(Posted 1:30 p.m. Feb. 10)
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has announced its fall 2025 Dean’s List for students enrolled in the colleges of nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and allied health professions.
To qualify for the dean’s list, nursing and the allied health students must be enrolled for 12 or more hours during the semester and have a grade point average of 3.75 or above.
Area students named to the UNMC Dean’s List are:
College of Nursing – Norfolk
Sadi Osnes of Valentine
College of Nursing – Scottsbluff
Benjamin Klemesrud of Bassett
College of Dentistry
Kendra Kozisek of Atkinson
Radiography
Jessa Klabenes of Ainsworth
Tessa Krolikowski of Valentine
* Portions of Highways 183 and 7 to be renumbered
(Posted 10:45 a.m. Feb. 10)
The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced U.S. Highway 183 and Nebraska Highway 7 near Bassett will be renumbered in the spring. The change will revert the highway numbers to their 1966 designations.
Area residents have requested this renumbering for several years through NDOT and the State Highway Commission. After previous denials, the request was approved by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Committee on Route Numbering in fall of 2025.
The renumbering is now possible following recent resurfacing work along Highway 7. It will also shorten Highway 183 and eliminate overlapping highways in the area.
The renumbering will affect approximately 17 miles of Highway 183, from reference post 193.94 to 211.51, and about 23 miles of Highway 7, from reference post 60.67 to 86.65. The change impacts portions of Brown, Rock, and Keya Paha counties, including the communities of Ainsworth, Bassett, and Springview.
Ahead of the renumbering, NDOT will contact local agencies, businesses, landowners, and residents affected by the change.
Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, put phones down.
* Friedrich hired as 2026-27 ACS principal
(Posted 10:30 a.m. Feb. 10)
Ainsworth Community Schools Superintendent Dale Hafer reported Tuesday a contract was approved by the Board of Education to have current middle school English teacher Cory Friedrich to serve as the district’s secondary principal for the 2026-27 school year.
Friedrich has six years of experience as a principal with Creighton Public Schools.
Hafer also provided updates on the district’s strategic plan. The full report can be heard below.
* Robertson wins KBRB Big Game Contest
(Posted 10:45 a.m. Feb. 9)
Picking a 29-14 Seattle victory over New England, Lynn Robertson of Long Pine missed the 29-13 final score by just one point to best 170 other scores and win the top prize in the annual KBRB Big Game Call-In Contest. Robertson receives $225 in gift certificates for finishing first.
Three callers tied for second, missing the final by just two points. Joe Mashburn, Dean Magill and Blake Hansmeyer all of Ainsworth each picked a 28-14 Seattle victory. Each earns $125 in certificates.
Four contestants missed the final score by three points to each earn $75 in certificates. Joe Lutz of Bassett, Jhett Buoy of Winner, S.D., and Shirley Carson of Elsmere each called in a 27-14 Seattle victory, and Jett Hansmeyer of Ainsworth picked a 31-14 Seattle win.
Three contestants tied for ninth, missing the final by just four points. Todd Kicken and Donnie Painter of Ainsworth each picked a 28-10 final, and Judy Baxter of Ainsworth predicted a 32-14 Seattle win. Each earns $50 in certificates, redeemable from our Big Game sponsors.
KBRB thanks this year’s 42 Big Game Contest sponsors and everyone who called in a score. Certificates are available for pickup from the KBRB Studios.
This year’s sponsors are:
Ainsworth
The Elks Club, Willow Creek Mercantile, The 402 Bar, Red & White Market, Buckles Automotive, First Class Auto, The Grand Theater, The Silver Circle Bar, The Book Peddler, Ranchland Western Store, Kelly Gambill Massage Therapy, Palmer Embroidery & Boutique, Ainsworth Motors, Stella’s Floral and Sweets, Needles N Pins, Calista’s Family Styling Salon, Husker Meats, Pizza Hut, Speedee Mart, Auto Value, H&R Food Center, Century Lumber Center, Yogi’s Place and Big John’s Restaurant
Johnstown
The L-Bow Room
Long Pine
Simple Solutions and The Sandhills Lounge
Bassett
Scott’s Place, The Whistle Stop, Circle B Livestock, G&V’s Market, Turp’s Automotive and The Scissor’s Edge
Stuart
Bloomin’ Daisies and The Cast Iron Bar & Grille
Atkinson
Wettlaufer’s Flower Shop, RF Goeke Variety/Daze of Wine and First Stop
Valentine
Nelsen Furniture
O’Neill
Shamrock Nursery
Lynch
Springlake Angus Center
Winner, S.D.
Office Products Center
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9 a.m. Feb.9)
February 1
An inmate was released from the Brown County Jail after completing their court commitment.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received citations for driving 12 mph over the posted speed limit and expired in-transits.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
February 2
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for driving 22 mph over the posted speed limit.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for an unsecured load.
A deputy investigated a vehicle-deer accident on Highway 183.
The sheriff’s office was asked to help assist in an investigation from another state’s police department with a juvenile issue.
A deputy assisted an Ainsworth resident with a possible scam phone call.
A deputy responded to a domestic disturbance. This is an ongoing investigation.
February 3
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for driving 13 mph over the posted speed limit.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transfer of a patient.
The sheriff and deputies responded to a report of cattle on the roadway on Highway 183. The cattle were placed back into the pasture.
February 4
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a citation for driving 16 mph over the posted speed limit.
The sheriff’s office was requested to perform a welfare check on a rural Brown County resident.
February 5
The sheriff attended a legislative session at Lincoln to discuss jail standards in Nebraska.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for expired registration and a written warning for driving on the shoulder of the highway.
The sheriff’s office performed a welfare check on an Ainsworth resident.
February 6
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for driving 17 mph over the posted limit.
February 7
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A deputy was asked to perform a welfare check on a vehicle that has not moved for a couple of days in Ainsworth. The deputy contacted a person in the vehicle. During the contact, it was discovered the person had an extraditable warrant, and the individual was placed under arrest and transported to the Brown County Jail.
Deputies responded to cattle out south of Ainsworth. The owner of the cattle was contacted and the cows were moved back into the pasture.
Deputies, the Brown County Ambulance Association and the Ainsworth Volunteer Fire Department responded to a vehicle-cow accident on Highway 7.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 1020
Calls for service – 11
911 emergency calls – 6
Vehicle titles inspected – 3
Firearm permits purchased – 2
Jail inmates housed – 1
* Wroblewski advances to Elks State Hoop Shoot
(Posted 6:45 a.m. Feb. 9)
During the recent Elks District Hoop Shoot, Tiana Wroblewski of Ainsworth won the girls 12-13 age division and advances to the upcoming Elks State Hoop Shoot, scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, in York High School.
Myles Heimann of Cozad won the boys 12-13 age division. Other winners were Beckham Copley of Cozad and Mylah Braithwait of North Platte in the 8-9 year-old divisions, and Brook Behrends of Sidney and Ivy Wood of Ogallala in the 10-11 year-old divisions.
* Commissioners discuss weed superintendent position
(Posted 3 p.m. Feb. 3)
The Brown County Commissioners on Tuesday discussed the county’s part-time weed superintendent position after current Weed Superintendent Scott Erthum resigned to accept a position as the Rock County Weed Superintendent, which in that county is a full-time position.
Commissioner Dennis Bauer said the board needed to decide how it wanted to proceed with the position.
“You have to be a certified commercial applicator,” Bauer said. “We could incorporate that position into another department or let them work as an independent contractor.”
Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey suggested there may be a current roads department employee who may be interested in serving as the weed superintendent.
Highway Superintendent Kenny Turpin said that employee may be willing to help, but he would not be interested in moving from a full-time position to part-time.
Bauer said he had contemplated having someone serve as the weed superintendent and then work in the roads department in the off-season in an effort to make the position full time.
“That position would then be under Kenny’s supervision,” Bauer said. “I think we could get a lot of sites coordinated for spraying that way. If that position was under the roads department, other crew members could help identify spots to spray.”
Taylor said the law states that each county must employ a weed superintendent and they have to be certified as an applicator upon the time of their employment.
Dailey encouraged Turpin to check with the current roads department employees to see if anyone was interested in taking on the weed superintendent position.
The item was placed on the board’s next agenda for further discussion on how to proceed.
During his roads department update, Turpin said the department planned to conduct crack sealing work on 432nd Avenue and 433rd Avenue.
“It is a little wet today, but we are hoping to get out on that Wednesday,” Turpin said. “One pallet of material is $2,900, but that is a lot cheaper than having a contractor do it.”
The highway superintendent said an armor coat layer would be applied after the crack sealing work is completed.
Turpin said the iron has arrived and he planned to have the roads department build 10 auto gates when the weather is too cold to do any other maintenance work.
Turpin requested the board consider a pay raise for part-time roads department employee Crit Mitchell. He said Mitchell works two to three months each year and has not had a wage increase since 2023.
“He is really good help,” Turpin said. “You won’t find a part time guy better than him.”
The board approved a $3 per hour increase for Mitchell.
The commissioners approved a new employee time management system through MIPS. Clerk Travee Hobbs said the hardware and onsite training on how to use the system would cost the county $1,160, followed by a monthly service charge of $97.80.
Hobbs said the system would make employee hours easier to track than the current method. Turpin said he and Hobbs have to get together now every pay period to go over time sheets.
Hobbs said the employees could sign in through either a personal computer or a cell phone, and they can only sign in when they are in close proximity to their workstation. She said that eliminates someone from signing in from elsewhere.
Both Bauer and Dailey said they preferred to have the training on the system conducted on site instead of the remote training option, which would have been $400 less for the initial setup.
The commissioners approved the county’s 2024-25 fiscal year audit as presented by Contryman Associates of Kearney. Hobbs said there were no major deficient findings in the audit.
Audrey Worthing with 3rd District Rep. Adrian Smith’s office provided an update on the work done by Smith’s three state offices.
She said the state offices provide constituent case work for anyone in the district struggling with a federal agency.
“We try to serve as a middleman and get people answers quickly,” Worthing said.
She said Rep. Smith has a Youth Advisory Council that meets with him at least twice per year. Applications for the youth council will be due in the summer.
She said the Congressman also nominates students to the nation’s military academies. She said applicants are interviewed extensively by a panel of professionals, most of whom have military experience.
Worthing said there are also college internships available for students in the Congressman’s Washington, D.C., office.
“That can get their feet in the door if that is the career path they choose to pursue,” Worthing said.
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Feb. 17.
* Brown County awarded $897,000 to replace bridges
(Posted 2:30 p.m. Feb. 3)
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced over $60 million in funding has been awarded to support critical infrastructure projects and firefighting capabilities across Nebraska.
Among the projects awarded was $897,000 to replace or repair multiple bridges in Brown County.
The funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act – passed by Congress – which now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
“Making investments in our communities to upgrade our infrastructure is one of my core missions as the U.S. Senator for Nebraska,” Fischer said. “And as a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’ve worked closely with our communities to make sure they get the resources they need. I’m proud to have secured $60 million in this package – on its way to the President’s desk – that will strengthen emergency services, enhance our airports, and improve infrastructure across Nebraska.
In a separate appropriation through the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health, and Human Services Appropriations Act – passed by Congress – which now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law, the city of O’Neill was awarded $3.5 million to replace the boiler and water heating systems at Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9 a.m. Feb. 2)
January 25
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for speeding and driving left of center.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for driving 18 mph over the posted speed limit. The driver also received a written warning for not having the correct year’s tags on their license plate.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a repair order for defective vehicle lighting.
Deputies responded to a possible domestic disturbance in Ainsworth.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth.
A deputy issued a repair order to a motorist for defective vehicle lighting.
January 26
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to assist a patient near Long Pine.
The sheriff and a deputy were requested to perform a security sweep for a church in Ainsworth. The sheriff and deputy discovered that someone had been staying in the basement of the church. The suspect was contacted and was told he was not allowed back into the church.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not coming to a complete stop at stop sign.
A deputy investigated a report of alcohol being purchased for minors in Ainsworth. This is an ongoing investigation.
A deputy took a report of trespassing on a property in rural Brown County south of Ainsworth. This is an ongoing investigation.
A deputy took a report of a possible domestic assault. This is an ongoing investigation.
A deputy investigated an unattended death in Ainsworth.
January 27
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20 east of Ainsworth.
A deputy investigated damage done to a trailer on private property near Highway 7.
A traffic stop was made on Meadville Avenue. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
The sheriff initiated a traffic stop in Ainsworth on a vehicle that was reported for driving recklessly. During the traffic stop, the driver was checked for sobriety. The driver of the vehicle was placed under arrest on a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol and cited for no registration.
January 28
The Brown County Jail released an inmate on bond.
A deputy received a report of a concern of an oversized load traveling eastbound on Highway 20. The deputy investigated the report and reported back that the oversized load had multiple pilot cars escorting it.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a warning for no registration on the vehicle and not having their driver’s license with them.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
Deputies investigated concerns of a possible noncompliant person on the sex offender registry in Johnstown.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Long Pine and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
January 29
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received citations for an unsecured load of hay and no registration on their truck tractor trailer.
A deputy provided assistance to a motorist near Long Pine.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
Deputies were asked to provide a welfare check on an elderly resident in Ainsworth. The person was not found at home or in Brown County.
A deputy investigated a vehicle-deer accident on Highway 20 near Long Pine.
January 30
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Long Pine.
The Brown County Jail booked in an inmate from a nearby county for a court-ordered commitment.
January 31
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 183.
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control in Ainsworth for a funeral procession.
A deputy took a report of an issue with a tenant in Ainsworth.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 968
Calls for service – 21
911 emergency calls – 9
Vehicle titles inspected – 1
Firearms permits purchased – 2
Jail inmates housed – 2
* Hale a finalist for National Golf Coach of the Year
(Posted 7 a.m. Feb. 2)
West Holt golf coach Todd Hale has been named as a finalist for the National High Schools Athletic Coaches Association National Golf Coach of the Year.
Eight finalists from across the country in each sport will be recognized during the National Coach of the Year Award Banquet July 1 in the Hyatt Regency Hotel at Coralville, Iowa.
Hale was nominated for the award by the Nebraska High School Coaches Association. The nomination was based on longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years and winning percentage.
The finalists are evaluated by experts in the field of coaching using a sport-specific rubric to assign points in each category.
* Wilkins selected for UN-L Dean’s Commendation List
(Posted 7 a.m. Feb. 2)
More than 400 University of Nebraska–Lincoln students have been named to the Deans’ Commendation List for the fall semester of the 2025-26 academic year.
The Commendation List recognizes students in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education and Human Sciences, College of Engineering and/or College of Journalism and Mass Communications who met or exceeded a specified grade-point average and carried six to 11 graded semester hours. Qualification for the Commendation List varies.
Area students named to the Deans’ Commendation List are:
Ainsworth
Libby Wilkins, senior, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agricultural leadership, education and communication.
* Area students named to UN-L Deans’ List for fall
(Posted 7 a.m. Feb. 2)
More than 7,000 University of Nebraska–Lincoln students have been named to the Deans’ List for the fall semester of the 2025-26 academic year.
Qualification for the Deans’ List varies among the eight undergraduate colleges and the Explore Center. Area students named to the Deans’ List at UN-L are:
Johnstown
Hannah Elizabeth Beel, freshman, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agricultural leadership, education and communication.
Long Pine
Dylan Benemerito, junior, College of Business, business analytics.
Allie Morgan Cosgrove, junior, College of Education and Human Sciences, child, youth and family studies.
Lauren Marie Ortner, senior, College of Business, marketing.
Wood Lake
Ty Schlueter, senior, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, agribusiness.
Bassett
Brooklyn Buell, junior, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, environmental and sustainability studies.
Stuart
Brynn Mikalan Almgren, junior, College of Education and Human Sciences, nutrition and health sciences.
Hunter Tubbs, freshman, College of Arts and Sciences, biological sciences.
Atkinson
Abby Thiele, sophomore, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, animal science.
Valentine
Pryce Johnston, sophomore, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, fisheries and wildlife.
Doc Lancaster, freshman, College of Business, accounting.
Titus Maunu, freshman, College of Engineering, computer engineering.
Finley Melisande Mosner, sophomore, College of Engineering, software engineering.
Lauren Schoonveld, sophomore, College of Education and Human Sciences, communication sciences and disorders.
Cadence Rachelle Swanson, freshman, College of Business, marketing.
Kaylee Wenig, senior, College of Architecture, architectural studies.
* Recent cases from Brown County Court
(Posted 3 p.m. Jan. 29)
In addition to fines, each case carries $50 in court costs
Cristian Alva, age 31, of Denver, Colo., charged with speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, fined $125.
Seth A. Williams, 48, of Thedford, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Harmony M. Brown, 47, of Loveland, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Kyle A. Hollenbeck, 24, of Ainsworth, muffler not in good working order, $25.
Wyatt T. Killion, 28, of Ainsworth, no proof of ownership, $50.
Wyatt R. Platt, 22, of Norfolk, speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Lucas N. Clay, 19, of Bassett, attempting a Class IV felony, $1,000; also charged with possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, $300; zero tolerance violation, $300.
Aaron T. Rahn, 21, of Piedmont, S.D., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Xaiyveyus A. Calma-Viloria, 22, of Colorado Springs, Colo., speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Chad A. Kooiker, 27, of Orange City, Iowa, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Chad J. Sutherland, 50, of Ogallala, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Sara R. Oxford, 31, of Hot Springs, S.D., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
David D. Butterfield, 66, of Atkinson, violating a stop or yield sign, $75.
Shalee M. Klein, 18, of Mills, careless driving, $100.
Kamberlyn A. Lamer, 29, of Humboldt, S.D., speeding 11-15 mph over the limit ,$125.
Harley J. Finazzo, 31, of Omaha, disturbing the peace, $100.
Jackson G. Irwin, 19, of Ainsworth, zero tolerance violation, $100; minor in possession of alcohol, $300.
Yaneli Y. De Gallegos, 42, of Norfolk, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Jayme M. Kinney, 48, of Ainsworth, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
John J. Peterson, 52, of Avon, Utah, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
John Boyd, 27, of Mission, S.D., speeding 21-35 mph over the limit, $300; no operator’s license, $75; no valid registration, $25.
Jess D. Gruenwalk, 40, of Colorado Springs, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Kema S. Scheer, 42, of Elsmere, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Ronald D. Hollmann, 76, of Ogallala, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Broderick A. Sheard, 40, of North Platte, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Aaron F. Smith, 47, of Littleton, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Noel P. Montoya, 33, of Denver, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75; no operator’s license, $75.
Brent R. Johnson, 52, of Denver, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Gage M. Herrington, 19, of Bassett, attempting a Class IV felony, $1,000; possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, $300; possession of drug paraphernalia, $100.
Annette Hessert, 66, of Ainsworth, second degree criminal trespassing, $100.
Cody W. Swanson, 27, of Bassett, first offense driving under the influence, $500, also sentenced to six months of probation, driver’s license revoked for 60 days, and ordered to install an ignition interlock device.
Maverick L. Stutzman, 22, of Ainsworth, disturbing the peace, $100.
Hunter J. Kykendall, 28, of Ainsworth, disturbing the peace, $100.
James T. Graff, 61, of Ainsworth, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Amanda C. Hollis, 40, of Littleton, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Luke P. Engan, 46, of Erie, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Shawn D. Damhoff, 30, of Parker, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Knute B. Gundersen, 35, of Golden, Colo., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Jessica A. Tyburec, 39, of Winner, S.D., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
* Valentine Airport named Project of the Year by NDOT
(Posted 12:15 p.m. Jan. 29)
The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced a series of achievements recognizing excellence in aviation and transportation at the Nebraska Aviation Council’s annual symposium in Kearney on Jan. 28-29. The Lincoln Municipal Airport was named Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year. The Wayne Municipal Airport/Stan Morris Field was named the 2025 Airport of the Year for its strong commitment to community relations. The Valentine Miller Field apron expansion was selected as the 2025 Project of the year for elevating the airport’s operational capacity, safety, and long-term functionality.
The 2025 Project of the Year award went to Valentine Miller Field for the apron expansion project at Miller Field. The project is a transformative investment that significantly elevates the airport’s operational capacity, safety, and long-term functionality.
The project included construction of a new 400’x190’ apron and adding four new aircraft tie-downs, optimizing aircraft parking, improving circulation, and supporting increased aviation activity. Strategic relocation of existing tie-downs and the addition of new fillets on Taxiways A and C further enhance aircraft movement and reduce operational constraints.
The project demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and efficiency through comprehensive airfield improvements, including reconfigured taxiway lighting, upgraded lighting along new fillets, clearly defined pavement markings, relocating the rotating beacon and tip-down tower, and installing new apron perimeter fencing. Overall, the Apron Expansion Project exemplifies excellence in planning, design, and execution.
* Area jobless levels remain low in December
(Posted 1 p.m. Jan. 27)
Nebraska’s unemployment rate for December was 3.0 percent. The rate has been unchanged in the past eight months that data was collected and was up 0.1 percentage points from the December 2024 unemployment rate of 2.9 percent.
The national unemployment rate for December was 4.4 percent, down 0.1 percent from the November unemployment rate and up 0.3 percent from the December 2024 unemployment rate.
Hawaii matched South Dakota for the lowest unemployment rate in the nation in December at 2.2 percent. South Dakota held a solo grip on the lowest rate for more than a year. North Dakota and Vermont tied for the third-best rate in the country at 2.6 percent, followed by Alabama in fifth at 2.7 percent and Nebraska with the sixth-lowest rate.
The highest December unemployment rate belonged to California at 5.5 percent, followed closely by New Jersey at 5.4 percent. Oregon, Nevada and Delaware rounded out the bottom five in the nation with jobless rates of 5.2 percent.
Brown County’s December unemployment rate of 2.4 percent was better than the state average. Cherry County enjoyed the lowest rate in the area in December at 2.2 percent, which tied for the second-best rate in the state behind only the 2.1 percent rate for Boone County in December.
Rock County and Holt County at 2.3 percent were also among the state leaders in December. Boyd County and Blaine County each had jobless rates of 2.8 percent in December, better than the state average.
Keya Paha County at 3.2 percent had the only area December rate that was above the state average. Thomas County experienced the highest unemployment rate in the state in December at 4.6 percent.
“Nebraska continues the streak of a record high labor force,” Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber said. “The employment level for December is over 1,066,000, up over 2,000 from November.”
The labor force includes both employed workers and those who are actively looking for work.
Nonfarm employment, the number of jobs filled, was 1,059,247 in December, down 5,489 from November and down 6,463 jobs from December 2024.
Private industries with the most growth between November and December were the trade, transportation and utilities sector (up 1,623 jobs), the other services sector (up 343 jobs), and the information sector (up 91 jobs).
The industries with the highest growth during the past year were the private education and health services sector (up 4,464 jobs), the mining and construction sector (up 1,353 jobs), and the other services sector (up 550 jobs).
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 8:45 a.m. Jan. 26)
January 18
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for driving 10 mph over the posted speed limit.
Deputies investigated a vehicle-deer accident on Highway 7.
January 19
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign.
Deputies provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 183.
A deputy responded to a herd of cattle out on Highway 183.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for no registration in their vehicle.
Deputies responded to a theft of a motor vehicle in Ainsworth. The stolen vehicle was found in Ainsworth. The suspect who had stolen the vehicle was also found inside of the stolen vehicle. The suspect was arrested for the stolen vehicle and also charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.
January 20
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transfer of a patient.
January 21
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
The Brown County Jail released two inmates on bond.
Deputies provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 7.
A search warrant was executed on a vehicle seized during a prior incident.
Deputies responded to a welfare check of a person having a mental health crisis in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for a headlight not working properly.
January 22
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for driving 12 mph over the posted speed limit.
The sheriff attended a meeting at Bassett with nearby county sheriffs.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
Deputies received a complaint about a possible impaired driver. Deputies were able to locate the reported vehicle. After deputies conducted a sobriety test, the driver was placed under arrest on a charge of driving under the influence of drugs. The driver also received citations for not having their driver’s license with them while operating a motor vehicle and improper turning.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transfer of a patient.
January 23
The sheriff and a deputy received a complaint about a vehicle driving erratically and faster than the posted speed limit. The reported vehicle was found in Ainsworth at a local business and contacted by the sheriff and deputies.
A deputy responded to a welfare check in Long Pine. The deputy found out that it was an accidental press of a life alert button.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for a not clear and visible plate.
January 24
The Brown County Jail released an inmate on bond.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for driving left of center and failing to display proper number of plates.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a written warning for failing to dim their high beam lights.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 1,035
Calls for service – 10
911 emergency calls – 8
Vehicle titles inspected – 1
Firearms permits purchased – 4
Inmates housed – 3
* Area students named to NECC honor lists
(Posted 1:30 p.m. Jan. 23)
Northeast Community College in Norfolk announced the President’s Honor List and Dean’s Honor List for both full– and part–time students for the fall semester.
To be named to the President’s Honor List, students must earn a grade point average of 4.0 and be enrolled for at least 12 credit hours. Students named to the President’s Part–Time list attained a 4.0 grade point average while taking at least six credit hours.
Students named to the Dean’s Honor List earned a graded point average of at least 3.75 while taking at least 12 credit hours. Students named to the Dean’s Part–Time list earned a grade point average of 3.75 or above while taking at least six credit hours.
President’s Honor List – Full–Time
Ainsworth — Megan Jones, Payton Moody.
Elsmere — Terra Shoemaker.
Atkinson — Cole Poessnecker.
Butte — Elizabeth Bernt.
Valentine — Cooper Jordan, Austyn Kieborz, Tatiana Williams.
President’s Honor List – Part-Time
Ainsworth — Jaylee Good, Puridy Haley, Kiley Orton.
Springview — Bailey Kaufman, Kit Painter, Zayle Stephen, Zachary Wiebelhaus.
Newport — Reece Taylor.
Stuart — Crystal Baumeister, Madison Kratz.
Atkinson — Monica Chavez, Alyssa Dobias, Ava Hoffman, Aleigha Ogden, Cameron Pacha, Madalyn Pistulka, Morgan Schaaf, Taylor Walnofer.
Naper — Kaci Koenig.
Butte — Matthew Bernhardt, Madelyn Brown, Jaylee Lechtenberg, Claire Reiman, Estrella Santiago, Kaylee Warnke.
Valentine — Courtnie Krueger.
Dean’s Honor List – Full–Time
Bassett — Ella Mitchell.
Springview — Gavin Prewitt.
Stuart — Charlene Bock.
Atkinson — Caeden Lech.
Butte — Trina Wetzel.
Dean’s Honor List – Part–Time
Ainsworth — Zaily Daniels, Aiden Rowley.
Bassett — Macy Bearnson, Jaiden Ertzner, Aspen Greve, Marissa Kruse, Ryleey Schulte.
Newport — Mason Schubauer, Olivia Strand.
Atkinson — Morgan Mitchell, Taylor Peek.
* New route to isolated property to be reappraised
(Posted 10 a.m. Jan. 21)
The Brown County Commissioners approved having Agri-Affiliates conduct a second appraisal of a route to an isolated property in southwestern Brown County.
County Attorney Andy Taylor told the commissioners on Tuesday, after the initial route was selected and an appraisal was performed to determine the damages neighboring property owners will incur to have a road built to the former Long Lake State Recreation Area, property owner Grant Kobes sued the county after disagreeing with the appraisal and the parameters of the road.
Taylor said all parties have now agreed to a route, which changed from the original that had been appraised. The new route has a road width of 33 feet, instead of the original 66 feet width that was included in the initial appraisal.
The county attorney said it is up to the commissioners to determine the amount of damage neighboring property owners will incur for the road to be built through their property. The county is obligated to construct the road to the isolated property, at the property owner’s expense.
Commissioner Denny Bauer said he believed the route that had now been agreed to needed to be professionally appraised. Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey agreed, saying the property owner could either pay for the appraisal or pay the commissioners to try and figure out how much damage will be incurred.
Taylor said, “I would be more comfortable having someone appraise it. Judge Kozisek thought it might be able to be done without a new survey.”
After discussion, the board approved having Agri-Affiliates reappraise the property that will be used to construct the road and determine the amount Kobes will owe the neighboring property owners.
In other business Tuesday, the commissioners approved a 25-year lease with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to connect a trail around the community fishing pond to the Cowboy Trail.
Bauer said there is no cost for the lease, and it allows the county to tie in the fishing pond walking path to the Cowboy Trail.
“It is a pretty straightforward, 25-year lease that allows us to build an approach and connect the walking path,” Bauer said.
Taylor said the only thing he saw in the lease agreement for the commissioners to note is the county would be responsible for the cost of removing the connection if the Game and Parks Commission ever decided to end the lease.
Bauer said, after speaking with Game and Parks officials, they would not plan to ever remove the approach but that language is included in the event the Cowboy Trail was ever returned to railroad service.
The board unanimously approved the lease.
The commissioners agreed to provide a letter to the Nebraska Department of Transportation indicating a Highway 20 renovation project east of Ainsworth would not disturb anything of cultural significance.
Taylor said the NDOT is required to see if there are any impacts to areas of cultural significance before undertaking the project, since federal dollars are being utilized.
Bauer said, since the renovation is being performed on a highway that is already in existence, there shouldn’t be any issues.
The board approved renewing a Highway 20 law enforcement agreement as presented by Sheriff Brent Deibler. The sheriff said it is a standard agreement that is renewed annually and allows all law enforcement entities along Highway 20 in the area to back each other up in times of need.
The board approved renewing a sign permit for the “Discover the Sandhills” sign located near Highway 20 on property owned by John Gross.
The commissioners held their annual reorganizational meeting. Bauer was reappointed as board chair with Dailey reappointed as vice chair. All board committee assignments will remain the same as 2025.
The board approved West Plains Bank, Homestead Bank, Union Bank & Trust, Tri County Bank, NPAIT and NFIT as official depositories for county funds.
The Ainsworth-Star Journal will serve as the official publication for legal notices. Board meetings will remain on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, with the Board of Equalization meeting at 1 p.m. and the Board of Commissioners meeting at 1:15 p.m.
Holidays will remain the same, with 13 official holidays for 2026. In addition, the county will observe any additional federal holidays that are declared during the year.
Dailey, Traci Booth, Kenny Turpin and Scott Erthum were reappointed to the county safety committee. Tammy Grupe was appointed to the safety committee to replace Kade Gracey, and Rebekah Smith was appointed to replace Tanya Cole on the committee.
The board approved the 2026 IRS mileage reimbursement rate of 72.5 cents per mile, up from 70 cents per mile in 2025.
Bauer provided an update from a recent meeting of the Ainsworth Senior Center. Bauer said the county provides the senior center with $2,700 annually. From 1980 to 2025, the county provided about $55,000 to the senior center. During that same time period, the senior center has received $2.3 million in meal reimbursement funding from the state and federal governments.
During his roads report, Turpin said the department worked to keep the asphalt-paved hills on Meadville Avenue, South Pine Avenue and near the Long Pine State Park sanded and salted during recent stretches of icy weather conditions. Turpin said the roads department closed the Long Pine State Park road during the Jan. 9 icy conditions.
“We knew we wouldn’t be able to make it down that hill with the truck,” Turpin said. “It was too dangerous.”
Turpin reported the roads department planned to construct some new auto gates during the winter and had secured the iron needed to build the gates.
“We are down to three auto gates in our inventory,” the highway superintendent said.
Bauer said he had received some compliments about the condition of the roads in the county. He asked Turpin how the stretch of Meadville Avenue was holding up north of the asphalt where the bonding material was applied.
Turpin said it seems to be holding up ok, but he was not sold that the product was something the county would want to use again.
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Feb. 3.
* Wayne State announces fall Dean’s List students
(Posted 10 a.m. Jan. 21)
Wayne State College included 1,300 students on the Dean’s List for exemplary academic achievement during the fall semester. Students on the Dean’s List are full-time undergraduate students who have achieved a GPA of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale for the semester. An asterisk (*) denotes a 4.0 GPA for the term.
Area students named to the Dean’s List include:
Ainsworth
Cameryn Goochey*, Madelyn Goochey*, Brandt Murphy, Kaitlyn Nelson*, Emma Sears*, Cheyan Temple and Zachary Welch
Bassett
Bridget Lewis and Carson Shaw*
Stuart
Elly Steinhauser
Atkinson
Ella Goeke-Schulte, Olivia Jarman, Andrew Martin and Cadey Schaaf
Naper
Paige Drueke
Valentine
Jack Lancaster* and Taycee Reimers
Thedford
Drew McIntosh
* Area students chosen for UNK honor band, choir
(Posted 7 a.m. Jan. 21)
More than 600 students from 100 high schools across the state will participate in the annual Honor Band and Choral Clinic at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Presented by the UNK Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, the event provides advanced musical instruction and performance opportunities for outstanding band and choir students. Participants work closely with UNK faculty and other respected Nebraska educators.
The clinic will conclude with two public concerts Monday evening in UNK’s Health and Sports Center. A 5 p.m. performance will feature the UNK Wind Ensemble, Festival Band and Honor Band, followed by a 6:30 p.m. concert showcasing the Treble Choir, Festival Choir and Honor Choir.
Tickets, which are valid for both concerts, will be available for $3 at the Health and Sports Center beginning at 4:30 p.m. Admission is free for clinic participants and preschool children.
Clinicians for the event are:
- Honor Band – Duane Bierman, professor of music and director of bands at UNK
- Festival Band – Jonathan Jaworski, band director at Otte Blair Middle School in Blair
- Honor Choir – John Petzet, associate professor of music and director of choirs at UNK
- Festival Choir – Jeff Vyhlidal, choir director at Northwest High School in Grand Island
- Treble Choir – Valerie Leising, choir director at Arapahoe-Holbrook Public Schools
Area students selected to participate include:
Ainsworth
William Biltoft, Erick Hitchcock, Realynn Reagan, Colby Beegle, Natalie Auten, Madison Phares, Jodie Denny and Miranda Phares
Rock County
Lyndsey Sybrant, Cenzie White, Mia Heyden, Shelby Connell and Eliesha Moravec
West Holt
Emersyn Mlady, David Armstrong, Taylor Nowlin, Peyton Olberding, Claire Sholes, Madisyn Hilkemeier and Leah Pistulka
Valentine
Roman Dillon, Praise Maunu, Allen Ward, Sari LaDeaux, Evelyn Rolfe and Lilybet Rolfe
* Saturday morning fire reported north of Ainsworth
(Posted 2 p.m. Jan. 19)
A Saturday morning fire north of Ainsworth prompted the response of the Ainsworth Volunteer Fire Department.
According to Ainsworth Fire Chief Brad Fiala, at approximately 5:30 a.m. Saturday, a fire was reported in a hay barn on property owned by Rolling Stone Feed Yard.
Fiala said a hay grinder was used Friday evening and then parked in the hay barn overnight. Early Saturday morning, an employee noticed smoke coming from the barn and alerted firefighters.
Working in wind chills of approximately 35 degrees below zero, the fire chief said damage was limited to the hay grinder and chassis. The hay barn was saved. Fiala said the fire likely started from a hot bearing that eventually ignited hay remnants on the grinder.
Fiala said firefighters were on scene for about 90 minutes in the bitter cold temperatures getting the fire under control.
* Council debates eliminating some boards, committees
(Posted 7:30 a.m. Jan. 15)
The Ainsworth City Council on Wednesday discussed a proposal from Mayor Joel Klammer to eliminate some standing city committees and boards.
Klammer said he had been talking about reducing the number of city committees, stemming from the Nebraska Legislature passing a bill that allows city councils to serve as the Board of Adjustment instead of having to have a separate board of volunteers.
“I don’t want to diminish the input of committee members,” the mayor said. “With the Board of Adjustment, it makes sense for the council to handle that.”
City Administrator Lisa Schroedl said the Board of Adjustment looks at property lines, setback issues, square footage of buildings, and fence heights.
“Those are the things the Board of Adjustment hears,” Schroedl said. “There has to be a hardship for why the property owner cannot comply.”
Schroedl said the Board of Adjustment is different from the City Planning Committee, which deals with zoning issues.
Klammer said he also proposed the elimination of the Committee on Housing, which is no longer necessary because the fund is gone that was the reason for that committee existing.
The mayor also suggested the parks and recreation committee and the Sellors-Barton Cabin Advisory Board could be eliminated.
“The park board was set up a long time ago,” Klammer said. “It was a good idea, but it didn’t quite function in the manner for which it was created. The funds for parks are decided by the council. People can come in and talk to the council.”
Councilman Brad Fiala said the council members did not have to do all the research on recent park improvement projects.
“They handled all that on the pickleball court project,” Fiala said. “I don’t want all that put back on the council.”
Klammer said, for bigger projects, using the community fishing pond for example, there were usually community members who would spearhead those projects to make them happen.
Councilman Dustin Barthel said, “I don’t want to see the park board go. They put in a lot of time on the pickleball project. I would like the park board to work on a dog park project next.”
Klammer said the council could hold a public hearing each spring to have a discussion on park projects people would like to see.
Councilman Kent Taylor said, “In the park board’s defense, they come up with the project but yet we hold the purse strings.”
Schroedl said she felt the council needed to set the project and the budget and then let the park board go to work.
Barthel said, if the park board is given direction, they do a good job of going out and getting all the quotes.
North Central Development Center Executive Director Kristin Olson said the park board handled all the maps and drawings for the pickleball court project.
“They are an advisory board,” Olson said. “The council still makes the decisions.”
Schroedl said that was the park board’s frustration during the most recent project, when things weren’t moving.
Fiala said, “I felt sorry for them because we didn’t have the money for it.”
The council also discussed the Sellors-Barton Cabin Advisory Board after receiving a letter from the current board members discussing the poor condition of the cabin at the courthouse park and the damage that has occurred to the contents inside the museum.
Taylor said, “You can about push your hand through the rotten logs on the old cabin, and the addition is just as bad. Water has been in there, and they have mold.”
Schroedl said there was no real way to mitigate the issues at the cabin. She said the board talked about having a restoration company try to clean and restore the items on display.
Klammer said he felt the cabin board could act on its own independent of the council other than the city owns the building.
“I envision that group like the archery club,” Klammer said. “They are independent and use the archery range and they cooperate with the Game and Parks.”
Schroedl said the building is city property and was gifted originally by the Sellors-Barton family.
“There is not really room in the Coleman House Museum to display a lot more,” she said. “It is not a good setup. It is only open two months a year, and there is no controlled air.”
Taylor said it sounded like the city needed to get a quote from a professional crew to potentially clean the items in the cabin that are salvageable.
“The building is worthless,” Taylor said. “Does anyone think we can save that building? We will have to find a space for that stuff. It is probably not safe for anyone to even be in there.”
Klammer said, ultimately, the problem comes down to money.
“To me, it seems like there should be one historical group,” the mayor said. “My gut says the cost is going to come back so high that the council won’t be willing to spend that.”
Barthel said, if all the historical items could be put together and have the groups work together, that would make sense.
Taylor said he was all for eliminating the Board of Adjustment and the Committee on Housing Wednesday.
Schroedl said, since the ordinance was on the agenda with all the committees, the council should probably wait to take action until the next meeting instead of breaking it apart.
The council agreed to table action on reducing any committees until its February meeting.
In other business Wednesday, Brown County Commissioner Dennis Bauer provided the council with an update on the next phase of improvements at the community fishing pond.
Bauer said the next phase of the project includes pouring a concrete path where the current gravel path around the pond exists, placing four benches along the water’s edge and planting trees.
Bauer said he just received a contract from the Game and Parks Commission to hook the path around the pond to the Cowboy Trail.
“The Game and Parks also agreed at its fisheries meeting to put 250 to 300 trout 12 to 14 inches in length into the pond in both the spring and again in the fall,” Bauer said.
The next phase of the project would be the construction of a picnic shelter at the site.
Bauer said $22,000 has been raised for the project, with the Brown County Foundation contributing $5,000 and the Brown County Commissioners committing $5,000. He said the funds for numerous trees and benches have been donated by businesses and residents.
Bauer said all of the labor for the project is being donated, so the cost will only be for the materials.
Audience member Graig Kinzie said he planned to submit an application to the Ainsworth Betterment Committee on behalf of the Ainsworth Lions Club if the board agreed to continue supporting the project as the applicant as it has in the past.
He said he hoped to meet with the ABC Committee and have a recommendation for the council to consider during its February meeting.
Fiala said, “I think it has been a great project. It is a great idea to attach the path to the Cowboy Trail.”
Bauer said he had to give credit to the Brown County Foundation for that idea, as the foundation board members suggested connecting the path to the Cowboy Trail when they were approached to support the project.
Barthel said, “I am amazed by the amount of kids out there. I see kids walking down the street all the time with fishing poles.”
Klammer said, in his former job, he worked on a lot of city ponds.
“People gravitate to community ponds,” Klammer said. “I remember riding my bike with my brother to the Seward pond.”
The council thanked Bauer for the update on the project.
In the only other action item Wednesday, the council approved the mayor’s recommended appointments of Dr. Kenneth Wasmund as the municipal physician; Michael Scholes as the city attorney; Lisa Schroedl as the city administrator, clerk and treasurer; Brad Miller as the water and sewer superintendent; Jade Egle as the streets foreman; Bruce Papstein as the city’s representative on the KBR Solid Waste Board; the West Plains Bank, Homestead Bank, Union Bank & Trust, the Nebraska Public Agency Investment Trust and NFIT as bank depositories; and the Ainsworth Star-Journal and KBRB Radio for city publications.
The next meeting of the Ainsworth City Council is scheduled for 5 p.m. Feb. 11.
* Secondary principal submits resignation
(Posted 6:45 a.m. Jan. 13)
The Ainsworth Community Schools Board of Education on Monday accepted the resignation of Secondary Principal Steve Dike effective at the end of the 2025-26 school year.
Dike submitted his letter of resignation to the board after serving as the school’s principal for eight years.
Board President Brad Wilkins said the school district made some great strides during his time as principal.
Dike said, “I am fortunate to have worked with you.”
Superintendent Dale Hafer also read a letter of resignation from Educational Service Unit 17 school psychologist and special education coordinator Scott Steinhauser, who announced his retirement from the ESU effective at the end of the current school year after 29 years in education.
Wilkins said the district was losing a lot of experience with the resignations of both Dike and Steinhauser.
Following an executive session, the board, with board member Crystal Dailey absent, did approve a contract for the 2026-27 school year for Elementary Principal Kelsey Riesen.
At the outset of Monday’s meeting, the board held its annual reorganization, electing Wilkins to continue to serve as the board’s president for 2026. Bryan Doke was re-elected as the board vice president, and Frank Beel will continue to serve as the board’s secretary and treasurer.
Dedra Stoner, Bailie Kovarik and Hafer were appointed as recording secretaries for board meetings. Riesen was appointed as the district’s Title IX Coordinator and Hafer was appointed as the Compliance Coordinator for 2026.
In annual action items, the board approved continuing to meet at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of each month in the district office for 2026. Board member committee assignments will continue unchanged for the next year.
The board approved the Ainsworth Star-Journal for the publication of legal notices, and will also announce notices on KBRB and through the school web site.
The board approved Homestead Bank, West Plains Bank, Union Bank & Trust and the Nebraska Liquid Asset Fund as depositories for district funds.
In other action items Monday, the board approved authorizations to the superintendent and treasurer to pay bills, receive and invest funds and to serve as the purchasing agents for the district.
The board approved the 2024-25 district audit from Dana F. Cole of Ord as presented, and approved the superintendent’s 2026 goals as presented.
During his report, Hafer said the district made repairs to the heating and air-conditioning unit on the agricultural and industrial technology building. Hafer said, when the unit was installed last fall, the crew noticed there was damage on one of the coils upon delivery from the factory.
The superintendent said, when repairs were made to remedy the defective parts, it was discovered the unit had leaked oil and caused damage to the roof membrane.
“Matt Fisher from Guarantee Roofing repaired the roof and the HVAC equipment company was billed,” Hafer said. He said there was no additional cost to the school.
The next meeting of the Ainsworth Community Schools Board of Education is scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 9.
* NCDC establishes fund to assist Springview family
(Posted 2 p.m. Jan. 12)
A fund has been established through the North Central Development Center to assist a Springview family whose home was damaged during a fire.
On the evening of Dec. 30, a fire started in an electrical junction box in the attic of a home occupied by Carl and Hazel Chase and family of Springview.
Springview Fire Chief Scott Hallock said firefighters contained the fire to a bedroom, bathroom and hallway.
However, smoke damaged most of the family’s belongings and forced them to temporarily relocate.
The NCDC has established a fund to assist the family with rent, utilities, repairs to their home and replacing belongings that were damaged or destroyed.
To make a contribution to the Chase family, checks can be written to the North Central Development Center, specifying “Chase Fire” in the memo line and mailed to NCDC, P.O. Box 303, Ainsworth, NE 69210.
Donations are also being collected in the West Plains Bank branches at Ainsworth and Springview.
Tax deductible donation receipts will be provided to donors.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9:15 a.m. Jan. 12)
January 4
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20 west of Ainsworth.
The sheriff and a deputy were asked to provide a civil standby for possible stolen items in Johnstown. During the investigation, the sheriff and deputy were able to retrieve various items equaling approximately $100,000 worth of equipment. The items were turned over to their rightful owner.
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20 east of Ainsworth.
A dispatcher attended training at Lincoln.
Deputies received complaints of careless driving in Long Pine. The deputies were able to locate the suspected vehicle. The driver received a citation on charges of careless driving and muffler in not in good working condition.
January 5
No reportable activity.
January 6
A deputy investigated a report of a gas drive-off in Ainsworth. The reported driver of the vehicle was notified and returned to the gas station.
A deputy was notified of a high school student possessing a nicotine vape pen in Ainsworth Community Schools. The juvenile received a citation on a charge of possessing a nicotine vape pen under the age of 21.
A deputy attended online training for electronic citation and traffic accident forms used by the sheriff’s office.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transfer of a patient.
The sheriff and deputies attended a two-state meeting at Winner, S.D.
January 7
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a fix-it ticket for improper or defective vehicle lighting.
January 8
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not using a turn signal.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in rural Brown County and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made on Meadville Avenue. The driver received a citation for driving 19 mph over the posted speed limit.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
January 9
Deputies investigated a traffic accident of an individual falling asleep while driving and hitting a parked vehicle. The driver was checked for sobriety and in addition to that the driver received a citation on charges of careless driving and no proof of insurance.
The sheriff responded to a report of an unhealthy wild animal in the city limits of Johnstown. The wild animal was dispatched and removed from Johnstown.
A traffic stop was made on Meadville Avenue. The driver received a fix-it ticket for improper or defective vehicle lighting and not having proof of registration inside of the vehicle.
Deputies received reports of a juvenile with mental health issues who may be intoxicated. Deputies searched Brown County and were unable to locate the juvenile. The juvenile was later found at a friend’s residence in a neighboring county.
January 10
Deputies responded to an intoxicated individual who refused to leave a residence in Ainsworth. A deputy responded to the house and escorted the reported person out of the house and off the property.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transport of a patient.
A deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20 of Ainsworth.
The sheriff’s office received a report of a vehicle losing lumber out of their vehicle on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. A deputy responded to the reported area and was unable to locate the reported vehicle.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a lift assist call in Ainsworth.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 1,023
Calls for service – 16
911 emergency calls – 4
Vehicle titles inspected – 8
Firearm permits purchased – 4
Inmates housed – 0
* Atkinson, Valentine libraries earn accreditation
(Posted 9 a.m. Jan. 12)
Nebraska Library Commission Library Development Director Christa Porter recently announced the accreditation of 34 public libraries across Nebraska.
Porter said, “We are dedicated to helping Nebraska libraries meet Nebraskans’ information needs, opening up the world of information for citizens of all ages. The Library Commission continues to work in partnership with Nebraska libraries and the regional library systems, using the Public Library Accreditation program to help public libraries grow and develop.”
Libraries earning accreditation include the Atkinson Public Library and the Valentine Public Library.
Public libraries in Nebraska are accredited for a five-year period.
“All Nebraskans will have improved access to enhanced library and information services, provided and facilitated by qualified library personnel, boards, and supporters with the knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes necessary to provide excellent library and information services,” Porter said.
* Schaaf graduates from UNMC with nursing degree
(Posted 11 a.m. Jan. 9)
Diplomas were conferred on more than 400 University of Nebraska Medical Center students on Dec. 19.
Taylor Schaaf of Atkinson graduated with a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the UNMC College of Nursing Kearney Division.
* NCTA names Dean’s List, Honor Roll students
(Posted 10:45 a.m. Jan. 9)
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture announced its fall semester Dean’s List and Honor Roll distinction. Twenty-three students earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average and were named to the Dean’s List, and an additional 55 students earned Honor Roll recognition with GPAs between 3.50 and 3.99.
Sydney Sybrant of Bassett is among the Dean’s List students with perfect 4.0 averages in the fall.
Courtney McCarthy of Newport received Honor Roll distinction during the fall semester
* UNK names Dean’s List students for fall semester
(Posted 12:15 p.m. Jan. 7)
The University of Nebraska at Kearney announced students who earned a place on the Dean’s List for the fall 2025 semester.
Students who are on the dean’s list must have completed 12 credit hours or more of classes with a 3.5 grade-point average or better on a 4.0 scale.
Area students named to the UNK Dean’s List for the fall semester are:
Ainsworth – Jordan Beatty
Johnstown – Jaden Lee
Bassett – Ali Myers and Mason Hagan
Purdum – Libby Smith
Stuart – Addie Ketteler, Addie Karo, Cory Gubbels, Dawson Heiser, Lacey Paxton, Luke Ludwig and Makenna Schaaf
Atkinson – Andrew Rentschler, Grant Osborne, Kelcie Osborne, Mady Kramer and Sidney Burkinshaw
Valentine – Courtney Billings, Jaycie Cox, Lainey Egelhoff, Logan Muirhead and Traven Fletcher
* Mountain lion season ends in Niobrara Unit
(Posted 11 a.m. Jan. 7)
The 2026 mountain lion hunting season in Nebraska’s Niobrara Unit closed Tuesday when the harvest sublimit of three females was met.
The mountain lion season remains open in the Pine Ridge and Wildcat Hills units. The Pine Ridge has a harvest limit of 12 lions with a sublimit of six females. To date, two females have been harvested. The Wildcat Hills Units has a harvest limit of three lions with a sublimit of two females. To date, no lions have been harvested.
Season 1 in all three units began Friday, Jan. 2. If the harvest limit or female sublimit in the Pine Ridge or Wildcat Hills is not reached by the end of February, an auxiliary season that allows the use of dogs would take place March 14-31.
This is the state’s ninth mountain lion harvest season. The first was in 2014.
In accordance with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s management objectives, the harvest of mountain lions in the Niobrara Unit provides a harvest opportunity that allows the lion population to remain resilient and healthy, while keeping the population stable or slowing growth in the Niobrara Valley.
Mountain lion presence has been documented in the Niobrara River Valley of north central Nebraska since 2001. There has been a resident reproducing population there since 2013 and information gathered through research suggests a population that is growing and will be resilient to harvest.
* Missoula Children’s Theater auditions Monday
(Posted 10:45 a.m. Jan. 7)
An audition will be held for the Missoula Children’s Theatre production of “Sleeping Beauty” from 3:30 until 5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, in the Ainsworth Community Schools Learning Center. Those auditioning should arrive at 3:30 p.m. and plan to stay for the full two hours. Some of the cast members will be asked to stay for a rehearsal immediately following the audition.
Approximately 50 to 60 roles are available for local students. All students, grades K-12, are encouraged to audition. No advance preparation is necessary. Most students will rehearse 4 hours, 15 minutes each day, Monday through Friday. The performance is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, in the Ainsworth Community Schools Learning Center.
For more information, call Kathy Klammer at (402) 760-0518.
The production is part of the Missoula Children’s Theatre’s unique international touring project and is presented locally by the Brown County Arts Council.
* Commissioners set elected officials’ salaries
(Posted 9:15 a.m. Jan. 7)
By a 2-1 vote Tuesday, the Brown County Commissioners approved a resolution setting the salaries for elected officials for the 2027-2030 term. The commissioners are responsible for setting salaries ahead of the election cycle, as anyone running for elected office pays a filing fee based on a percentage of the salary of the elected position being sought.
The board, with Commissioners Dennis Bauer and Donnie Painter in favor and Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey against, set the county attorney’s salary at $112,000, the sheriff/jail administrator salary at $100,000, the clerk salary at $77,500, the treasurer salary at $74,000 and the assessor’s salary at $74,000. Each elected official will also receive a $1,500 annual increase during each subsequent year of the four-year cycle. The elected officials also receive full benefits.
The salary for each commissioner was set at $34,500 annually. The commissioners will not receive an annual increase in years two through four of the cycle like the other elected officials. Commissioners also receive full benefits.
In another payroll item, the commissioners made the effective date the Jan. 2 payroll period for the increases the board previously awarded to other county employees. Bauer said wage increases approved by the board have normally started at the next convenient pay period after the action is taken.
In other business Tuesday, the commissioners approved a resolution transferring $52,922 from the Brown County Ambulance Association fund to the debt services ambulance building fund and making the semi-annual bond payment from that fund.
The board also approved a resolution allowing the ambulance association to trade in two old Life-Pac defibrillator units and receive $5,000 credit from each unit toward the purchase of new defibrillator units.
A budget amendment will be addressed in March for the ambulance association for the purchase of the new defibrillator units.
The commissioners approved a law enforcement agreement between Brown County and Boyd County. Sheriff Brent Deibler said the Brown County Jail occasionally houses inmates for Boyd County. Deibler said Boyd County pays Brown County $60 per day for each inmate held.
The board, at Deibler’s request, also approved removing Tanya Cole and adding Vincent Lanas to all sheriff’s department accounts at Homestead Bank.
The board approved ACH direct deposit forms from Homestead Bank as presented.
In a final action item Tuesday, the board approved a $1,622 refund from the county’s inheritance tax fund after a family overpaid the county. County Attorney Andy Taylor said sometimes the inheritance tax owed by an estate is a guess in order to meet the deadline. To receive a refund, the estate presents information to the court and the court then issues an order for a refund, which occurred in this instance.
During his report, Highway Superintendent Kenny Turpin said he had checked in with U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer’s office on a potential federal appropriation for bridge construction projects in the county. Brown County has been earmarked for federal funds to update older bridges.
Turpin said Fischer’s office indicated there was nothing new to report as negotiations on a transportation appropriations bill were ongoing.
Turpin reported he was starting to work on the county’s annual one- and six-year highway improvement plan. The highway superintendent said the only new project he planned to add was a stretch of Richardson Road.
“If you have any other projects you want added to the plan, let me know,” Turpin said.
Weed Superintendent Scott Erthum presented his annual report to the board, with Bauer signing that the board had received the report.
The board tabled approval on an updated handbook for county employees until the board makes a decision on a time management system. Taylor said the commissioners could either approve the handbook as it is now and then amend it based on the decision made regarding the time management system, or the board could opt to approve the amended handbook after that item is finalized. The board opted to table action on the handbook.
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Jan. 20.
* Recent cases from Brown County Court
(Posted 3 p.m. Jan. 6)
In addition to fines, each case carries $50 in court costs
Mesa J. Roghair, age 21, of Okaton, S.D., charged with speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, fined $75.
Laura J. Crites, 62, of Gordon, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Jennifer E. Verretta, 52, of Thornton, Colo., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $250.
Rachel L. Collatos 26, of Long Pine, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Ryan P. Beacom, 41, of Emerson, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Martha M. Fletcher, 44, of Ainsworth, assault by mutual consent, $100.
Travis A. Wolfe, 44, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $75.
Raymond J. Lux, 25, of Norfolk, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Kyle A. Eberhart, 30, of Omaha, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Mattee A. Dailey, 29, of Ainsworth, failure to use child passenger restraint, $25.
Xavien R. Kimbrough, 32, of Florrisant, Mo., speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $250.
Jennifer L. Lammers, 42, of Ainsworth, violation of a stop or yield sign, $75.
Brenda Juarez, 44, of Ainsworth, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Denise K. Danielson, 66, of Colorado Springs, Colo., speeding 11-15 mph over the limit $125.
William E. Seymore, 45, of Easley, S.C., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Jarred D. Cronin, 35, of Panama City, Fla., speeding 21-35 mph over the limit, $300.
Madeline R. Strong, 31, of Omaha, no operator’s license, $75.
Jaci J. Swanson, 48, of Ainsworth, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75; also charged with failure to wear a seat belt, $25.
Gregory B. Arendt, 71, of Valentine, speeding 21-35 mph over the limit, $300.
Alexis M. Nowlin, 29, of Ainsworth, violation of a stop or yield sign, $75.
Logan J. Leonard, 41, of Bassett, speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Allen J. Duval, 35, of Lusk, Wyo., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200; careless driving, $100.
* Fischer nominates students to military academies
(Posted 9:30 a.m. Jan. 6)
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer released the names of the Nebraskans she is nominating this year for U.S. service academies.
“I’m proud to nominate 40 impressive Nebraska students for acceptance to our nation’s prestigious military academies. Each student has proven to be a dedicated leader, bringing unique skills and perspectives to their communities. I wish them the best as they continue through the process, and I thank them for choosing this path of service,” Fischer said.
Among the students nominated by Fischer are:
Alexander Gotschall of Atkinson to the U.S. Naval Academy
Landon Mooney of Valentine to the U.S. Military Academy and the U.S. Naval Academy
Izaak Vakoc of Verdigre to the U.S. Military Academy
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 11 a.m. Jan. 5)
December 28
The sheriff’s office received a report of a possible vehicle roll-over accident in southern Brown County. A deputy patrolled the reported area and was unable to locate a vehicle.
A deputy was asked to perform a welfare check of an individual who may have been sleeping in his vehicle. The individual was found to be ok.
December 29
The sheriff’s office is investigating a report of a firearm stolen from a vehicle.
The sheriff and deputies responded to the Ainsworth Inn for a possible break-in. The building was found to be empty.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
December 30
The sheriff investigated a report of a suspicious person and vehicle in Ainsworth.
The sheriff and a deputy were requested to perform a welfare check of an individual in Ainsworth. The person was found to be ok.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for vehicle lighting.
A traffic stop was made in rural Brown County. The driver received a written warning for not having a clear and visible plate.
December 31
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received repair orders for defective vehicle lighting, no proof of insurance, and expired plate tags.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a repair order for defective vehicle lighting.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a warning for not signaling a turn.
January 1
Deputies responded to a physical altercation in Ainsworth. An individual was arrested on charges of third-degree assault and disturbing the peace and was booked into the Brown County Jail.
The Brown County Jail released an inmate after completing their court commitment.
The sheriff’s office received reports of a suspicious vehicle in Ainsworth. A deputy was unable to find the reported vehicle.
January 2
The sheriff and the Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a roll-over accident north of Ainsworth.
The sheriff’s office received a report of a jacked-knifed semi north of Ainsworth.
A deputy investigated a two-vehicle accident in Ainsworth.
The Brown County Jail released an inmate on a personal recognizance bond.
The sheriff and deputies trained on de-escalation scenarios utilizing tasers. The new deputy also received taser training.
January 3
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A written warning for no registration was given to a motorist in rural Brown County.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver was given a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a repair order for the vehicle brake lights not working properly.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for driving without headlights at night.
Deputies investigated a suspicious activity call in Long Pine. Deputies patrolled the reported area and did not find anything out of the ordinary.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for driving without headlights at night.
Deputies contacted a person walking on the shoulder of Highway 20.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 770
Calls for service – 15
911 emergency calls – 7
Vehicle titles inspected – 6
Firearms permits purchased – 3
Inmates housed – 2
* Icy roads make travel treacherous
(Posted 8 a.m. Jan. 2)
Freezing rain Friday morning has made roads icy and travel in the area is not advised.
Brown County Sheriff Brent Deibler reported Friday morning that all highways in the area have black ice and travel is extremely dangerous.
Anyone who doesn’t have to travel is urged to stay off the highways.
A winter weather advisory is in effect until 9 p.m.
* Area producers to receive federal per-acre payments
(Posted 8 a.m. Jan. 2)
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the next phase in the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program (FBA), the eligible commodity per-acre payment rates. As announced earlier this month by President Trump and Secretary Rollins, $12 billion will be paid to American farmers in 2026. Of that amount, $11 billion consists of one-time FBA program payments. This is in response to four years of disastrous Biden administration policies that created record-high input and production costs, zero new trade deals, and a forgotten rural America.
“These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net,” Rollins said. “USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”
Commodity, Per Acre Payment Rates
• Corn: $44.36
• Soybeans: $30.88
• Sorghum: $48.11
• Oats: $81.75
• Wheat: $39.35
• Barley: $20.51
• Sunflower: $17.32
Eligibility, Program Applications, and Crop Insurance Linkage
FBA payments are based on 2025 planted acres, Economic Research Service cost of production, and the World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimate Report. Double crop acres, including all initial and subsequently planted crops, are eligible. Prevent plant acres are not eligible.
All intended row crop uses are eligible for FBA except grazing, volunteer stands, experimental, green manure, crops left standing and abandoned or cover crops.
* Area unemployment rates remain low in September
(Posted 9 a.m. Dec. 30)
Nebraska’s unemployment rate for September was 3.0 percent. The rate was unchanged from the August unemployment rate and was up 0.1 percent from the September 2024 unemployment rate of 2.9 percent.
The national unemployment rate for September was 4.4 percent, up 0.1 percent from the August unemployment rate and up 0.3 percent from the September 2024 unemployment rate of 4.1 percent. Nebraska’s rate is tied with Montana and New Hampshire for the sixth-lowest rate in the nation.
South Dakota had the lowest jobless rate in September at 2 percent, followed by Hawaii and Vermont at 2.5 percent. North Dakota at 2.6 percent and Alabama at 2.8 percent rounded out the top five in the nation.
The highest unemployment rate in September belonged to California at 5.6 percent. Nevada at 5.3 percent, Oregon and New Jersey at 5.2 percent and Michigan at 5.1 percent rounded out the states with the highest jobless rate in the nation in September.
Brown County’s September unemployment rate was 2.2 percent, better than the state average and tied with Cherry County and Holt County for the best rates in the area. Those three area counties were behind only Boone County and Fillmore County at 2.1 percent for the best jobless rate in the state.
Boyd County at 2.4 percent, Blaine County at 2.5 percent and Rock County at 2.6 percent were also better than the state rate. Keya Paha County had a September jobless rate of 3.6 percent and was the only area county higher than the state average.
“In September, statewide employment reached a historical high for the ninth consecutive month at over 1,059,500,” Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber said.
Nonfarm employment was 1,062,402 in September, down 239 from August but 440 more jobs than September 2024.
Private industries with the most growth between August and September were the financial activities sector (up 227 jobs), the information sector (up 53 jobs), and the manufacturing sector (up 34 jobs).
Industries with the highest growth during the past year were the private education and health services sector (up 6,603 jobs), the mining and construction sector (up 1,355 jobs), and the other services sector (up 510).
October and November jobless data was not collected due to the government shutdown.
* Students named to Chadron State College Dean’s List
(Posted 10:15 a.m. Dec. 29)
Chadron State College announced students who qualified for the Dean’s List and President’s List for the fall semester. The President’s List consists of students with a 4.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Students met the requirements for the Dean’s List by earning at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average.
Area students receiving recognition were:
President’s List
Johnstown: Kerstyn Held
Bassett: Matyson Hollenbeck
Brewster: Elizabeth Peterson
Stuart: Jenny Forker
Valentine: Lindsey Boes, Caitlynn Mack., Ian Slama, Grant Springer, Marybelle Ward
Dean’s List
Ainsworth: Cody Kronhofman, Baillee Palmer
Springview: Hannah Thieman
Purdum: Kyle Cox
Atkinson: Rylee Poessnecker
Valentine: Cinch Miller, Sheldyn Rodgers, Ethan Sprenger
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9:30 a.m. Dec. 29)
December 21
Deputies and the Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a single vehicle rollover accident near Long Pine State Park. Both the driver and passenger were found to be ok. The driver of the vehicle received a citation for careless driving.
A deputy received a report of a gas drive off from a local gas station.
December 22
The sheriff’s office completed a highway only traffic enforcement selective. The sheriff and two deputies participated. There were six citations issued on speeding charges, two citations for no valid registration, one citation for no proof of insurance and one citation for no operator’s license. There were also four violations and warnings given.
December 23
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183 on a semi. The driver received written warnings for load securement and no registration in the vehicle.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
December 24
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for temporary license plates being expired.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for no proof of insurance and license plate not being clear and visible.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A deputy investigated a vehicle-deer accident east of Ainsworth on Highway 20.
December 25
Deputies were asked to perform a welfare check. The individual was found to be ok.
Deputies went to the range for firearms training.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
December 26
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 7.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for not yielding to an emergency vehicle during the cattle crossing.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not having his vehicle registered.
December 27
A traffic stop was made on Ponderosa Road. The driver received written warnings for no driver’s license on person, no registration in vehicle, and failure to display proper number of plates.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for a defective headlight.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a repair order for a defective taillight.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 733
Calls for service – 6
911 emergency calls – 10
Vehicle titles inspected – 2
Firearms permits purchased – 4
Jail inmates housed – 1
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9:15 a.m. Dec. 22)
December 14
The sheriff and deputies investigated a missing person report in rural Brown County. This is an ongoing investigation.
The sheriff’s office received a report of cattle out on Highway 183. The owner of the cattle was contacted and the cattle were moved from the highway.
December 15
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A deputy was notified of a traffic hazard in the middle of the highway. The reported item was removed from the highway.
A deputy responded to a report of a possible reckless driver on Highway 183. The reported vehicle was not located.
December 16
An inmate was booked into the Brown County Jail on a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol.
The sheriff and a deputy responded to a report of suspicious activity in Ainsworth.
A deputy assisted a motorist with a broken-down vehicle.
A deputy attended an after-action review of an accident that occurred on Highway 20 in the Long Pine Hills earlier in the year.
December 17
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
A deputy responded to a suspicious acting person walking around in the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for driving on the shoulder of the highway.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver was given a written warning for speeding.
Deputies received a report of a runaway teenager in rural Brown County. Deputies could not find the teenager. The teen was later found at school the next day.
December 18
A deputy responded to a report of possible trespassing in rural Brown County. The deputy checked the property and the house and was unable to find anyone on the property.
A deputy was asked to conduct a welfare check of a child in Ainsworth. The deputy spoke with the mother and checked on the child, who was found to be ok.
A new deputy graduated law enforcement basic training at Grand Island.
The sheriff attended law enforcement basic training graduation.
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with the transfer of a patient.
December 19
Deputies and dispatchers passed out candy canes at Ainsworth Community Schools.
Deputies received a report of a runaway juvenile in rural Brown County. The deputies were unable to locate the juvenile.
The Ainsworth Volunteer Fire Department responded to a fire in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for vehicle lights not working properly.
December 20
Deputies provided traffic control during a funeral procession in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 east of Ainsworth. The driver was given a written warning for driving on the shoulder of highway.
Deputies located the runaway juvenile reported from the night prior in Ainsworth. The juvenile received a citation on a charge of being an uncontrollable juvenile.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for unsafe backing of their vehicle.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 948
Calls for service – 15
911 emergency calls – 10
Firearms permits purchased – 2
Vehicle titles inspected – 3
Jail inmates housed – 2
* Friday fire damages home on North Maple Street
(Posted 7:45 a.m. Dec. 22)
A Friday evening fire damaged a home in Ainsworth. The Ainsworth Volunteer Fire Department was summoned at 7:45 p.m. Friday to a report of a fire on the porch of a residence at 467 N. Maple St., owned by Steve Bejot of Ainsworth.
Ainsworth Fire Chief Brad Fiala said a neighbor noticed the fire and called it in. He said a resident was home at the time of the fire and was able to evacuate safely.
The fire chief said the fire started when a curtain on the porch was pressed against an electric heater, which caused the curtain to eventually ignite. Fiala said firefighters arrived on scene and had the fire extinguished in minutes.
Furniture on the porch was destroyed, and the entire home sustained smoke damage. Fiala said firefighters were on scene for approximately 90 minutes.
* Area students receive degrees from UN-L
(Posted 6:45 a.m. Dec. 22)
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln conferred 1,197 degrees during commencement exercises Dec. 19 and 20 at Pinnacle Bank Arena.
The degrees were earned by 1,175 graduates from 44 countries, 39 U.S. states and 140-plus Nebraska communities.
Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett presided over the ceremonies.
Area students who received degrees from UN-L are:
Wood Lake
Ty Schlueter, a Bachelor of Science degree in Agribusiness with high distinction from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
Stuart
Sadie Jarecke, a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
Brewster
Emily Martindale, a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Education from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
Spencer
Jenny Choat, a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Engineering from the College of Engineering.
* Area students named Academic All-State by NSAA
(Posted 7 a.m. Dec. 18)
The Nebraska School Activities Association announced recipients of the Fall Nebraska Chiropractic Physicians Association Academic All-State Awards. Since 2006 this NSAA Awards Program has recognized students who meet the criteria for nomination by their school in the season of their activity.
Each year the NSAA recognizes students during the fall, winter, and spring seasons who are nominated by their schools for their individual academic excellence, leadership, and significant contributions in their NSAA activity.
Area students named Academic All-State are:
Ainsworth
Jonathan Strand in boys cross country, Payton Moody and Kiley Orton in girls cross country, David Cook and Sam Titus in football, Puridy Haley and Erick Hitchcock in play production, and Jaylee Good and Megan Jones in volleyball
Keya Paha County
Angela Frick in girls cross country, Landon Stephen in football, and Zayle Stephen and Reece Taylor in play production
Rock County
Layton Deibler and Andrew Rowan in boys cross country, Kade Wiiest in football, and Ireland Buell and Sydney Hoffman in volleyball
Stuart
Jacob Kohle in boys cross country, Kayde Ramm and Drew Schmaderer in football, Maddux Alder and Drew Schmaderer in play production, and Paityn Sheffield and Kyra Tubbs in volleyball
West Holt
Jacob Panning in boys cross country, Ava Hoffman in girls cross country, Marek Dvorak and Cameron Pacha in football, Hannah Hooey and Daleni Knust in girls golf, Jacob Panning and Olivia Rentschler in play production, and Pavan Larson and Madalyn Pistulka in volleyball
Sandhills
Connor Sutton in boys cross country, Thatcher Teahon in football, Cesar Chavez and Shaylee Milleson in play production, and Paizley Zutavern in volleyball
Valentine
Landen Mooney and Isaac Utecht in boys cross country, Dominic Beebout in football, Tierney Miller and Samantha Sprenger in girls golf, Landen Mooney and Kasey Wietzke in play production, and Camilla Brown and Annalena Nelson in volleyball
Boyd County
Will Nelson in boys cross country, Addilyn Janousek and Kaci Koenig in girls cross country, Ben Schmitz and Peyton Wickersham in football, and Mazee Johnson and Claire Reiman in volleyball
* Commissioners set elected officials’ salaries
(Posted 3 p.m. Dec. 17)
Following an executive session Tuesday, the Brown County Commissioners set salaries for elected officials for the 2026 cycle, with the annual compensation running from January 2027 through December 2030.
The highest paid elected position in the county is the Brown County Attorney. The attorney will receive an annual salary of $112,000 for the four-year cycle. The jail administrator position was folded into the county sheriff’s duties and the sheriff will receive $100,000 annually starting in January 2027.
The Brown County clerk’s salary will be $77,500 for the four-year cycle, with both the county assessor and county treasurer being paid $74,000 annually. Each Brown County Commissioner will earn $34,500 per year with benefits.
The board approved the salaries by a 2-1 vote, with Commissioners Denny Bauer and Don Painter in favor and Jeremiah Dailey against.
The commissioners also set wages for the upcoming year for non-elected positions. The custodian will be paid $23 per hour. The deputy emergency manager will receive $28 per hour. The weed superintendent will earn $28 per hour. The zoning administrator will receive $26 per hour, and the veterans services officer, a position shared with Keya Paha and Rock counties, will be paid $28.50 per hour.
The commissioners on Tuesday approved increases to solid waste fees for 2026. Treasurer Bruce Mitchell said, to keep pace with the costs to operate the KBR Solid Waste Transfer Station, fees would need to increase by $18 per year. Mitchell’s recommendation would have increased solid waste fees charged to $192 per year for county residents, $270 per year for businesses, and $96 per year for cabin owners.
“That is what we need to charge to break even,” Mitchell said.
The treasurer said there are a few people who are past due on their solid waste fees. He said those people should not be allowed to use the solid waste transfer station until the past-due amounts are paid.
County Attorney Andy Taylor said he would draft a letter to send to those who have not paid the solid waste fees informing them they will not be allowed to use the facility until the payments are made.
Dailey recommended rounding the fees to $200 per year for residential, $280 for businesses and $100 for cabin owners. The board approved those amounts for 2026. Residents have the option of paying quarterly or paying for the entire year.
In other business Tuesday, Scott Goodloe and Ann Fiala from the Brown County Ambulance Association approached the commissioners about an amendment to the association’s 2025-26 budget that will allow for the receipt of grant funding and the purchase of two new defibrillator units for the association’s ambulances.
Goodloe said the current budget did not reflect the grant revenue being received and the units purchased. He said the association did not expect to purchase the units until the next fiscal year, but it was deemed the current defibrillator units could no longer be serviced.
“We got a last-minute grant approval so we can get the new units purchased in this fiscal year,” Goodloe said. “We realize a budget adjustment isn’t ideal, but we want to do this the right way.”
Goodloe said the association has visited with the county’s budget preparer, Caleb Johnson, who indicated he could create the amendment documents at a cost of around $500, which Goodloe said the ambulance association would cover. He said there would be no cost to the county for the budget amendment or the new defibrillator units.
Goodloe said the association could also receive $5,000 in credit for each of the old defibrillator units if the commissioners agreed to allow the association to declare those units as surplus equipment to sell.
“That will also help offset the purchase of the new units,” Goodloe said. “The budget amendment will reflect the $85,000 coming in and going out for the defibrillators.”
Taylor said he would create a resolution that would allow the association to trade in the old units, and he would work with Johnson on the budget amendment. No board action was necessary.
The commissioners opened one sealed bid received for the vacant lot on Main Street in Long Pine. The county took ownership of the site after property taxes went unpaid. The roads department demolished and removed the building on the site.
Long Pine Feed Service, located next to the now vacant lot, submitted a bid of $3,500 to purchase the parcel, which was unanimously approved by the commissioners.
The board approved permit renewals for three promotional signs in the county. Two are “Discover the Sandhills” signs owned by the Brown County Visitors Committee and located along Highway 20. One sign in western Brown County is on property owned by John and Peg Gross. The other is on property on the east side of the county owned by Daniel and Angela Hladky.
The third sign is the “KBR Solid Waste” sign owned by the KBR Solid Waste Committee and located on property just east of Ainsworth owned by the Nebraska Public Power District.
In other action items, the commissioners approved $1,500 in tuition reimbursement for county employee Zach Welch. Taylor said Welch completed his degree and received straight A grades. Taylor said Welch appreciated the county’s tuition reimbursement benefit for county employees.
The board approved a budgeted transfer of $18,000 from the county’s miscellaneous general fund to the reappraisal fund, and approved closing the DARE program account at West Plains Bank.
The $154 in the account will be used by the sheriff’s department for candy canes and informational cards to be given to students following a presentation on the negative effects of using drugs.
The commissioners approved adding assistant clerk Nadine Starkey to the Homestead Bank safety deposit box and remove retired assistant clerk Becky Hardy from the safety deposit box and all accounts at Homestead Bank.
During his report, Highway Superintendent Kenny Turpin said the roads department has been cutting down trees in county road right of way and would be hauling the trees to the transfer station to be burned.
Turpin said the roads department planned to start running the newly purchased tar pot machine and fill cracks in asphalt roads in the county.
Turpin said the roads department also planned to work on a drainage issue west of the community fishing pond, and planned to create a path from the south side of the pond to the Cowboy Trail if the Game and Parks Commission approved a permit to attach a path to the trail south of the pond.
Bauer said he received verbal approval from the Game and Parks Commission to construct a path from the pond to the Cowboy Trail but the county would wait to do any of the work until the county has a permit in hand. Turpin said the roads department may level a spot for a future picnic shelter on the east side of the pond while it is performing the other dirt work at the site.
Turpin said the county’s surplus Caterpillar motor grader sold during an online auction for $56,600. The county will receive $51,708 after commission, which will help offset a portion of the cost of the new motor grader that was purchased.
Bauer discussed having the county potentially assist the Ainsworth Senior Center with some of the entity’s utility costs during the next budget cycle. Bauer said he was appointed to fill a vacancy on the senior center board and was trying to figure out a way to assist the senior center’s operations.
“In January, the senior center had a reserve balance of $33,000,” Bauer said. “That reserve balance in October was down to $17,000.”
Bauer said food costs have increased. He said the senior center has increased the price of meals and the facility does receive federal and state assistance, but that assistance has not kept up with the increase in expenses.
The senior center charges $6.50 per meal for those age 60 and over and $7 for carry-out or home delivery. Those under the age of 60 are welcome to eat lunch at the senior center daily at a cost of $8 per meal.
“The senior center served 1,154 meals in October and makes 25 to 30 deliveries per day,” Bauer said. “It is being used.”
Bauer said the senior center’s electric bill is approximately $514 per month or $6,200 per year while the natural gas bill is $156 per month. Bauer said the city donates $2,000 annually to support the senior center. He suggested the commissioners consider helping with one of the utility bills in the next budget cycle.
“I just want to throw that out as an idea,” Bauer said. “Maybe we could pick up the electric or gas bill to help them out. I am not asking to do anything today, I just wanted it talked about in public so people could think about it.”
Bauer said the senior center provides a great service to the community.
“I would hate to see it close,” Bauer said. “Talking about it like this will give people a chance to talk to us about what they think.”
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Jan. 6.
* Schlueter named Chancellor’s Scholar at UN-L
(Posted 12:30 p.m. Dec. 16)
Seventeen University of Nebraska–Lincoln students will be recognized as Chancellor’s Scholars during the undergraduate commencement ceremony Saturday in Pinnacle Bank Arena.
Chancellor’s Scholars are students who have maintained 4.0 grade-point averages on all collegiate work at the University of Nebraska and elsewhere.
Among the 17 Chancellor’s Scholars is Ainsworth High School graduate Ty Schlueter of Wood Lake. Schlueter is graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in agribusiness from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
* Council approves ATV/UTV ordinance changes
(Posted 11 a.m. Dec. 16)
After several months of discussion, the Ainsworth City Council on Monday approved updates to city ordinances regarding the operation of ATVs and UTVs inside city limits.
The two significant changes to the city’s ordinances are that people are required to bring their ATV or UTV to the city office for inspection when licensing the vehicle for use in the city, and flags must be 2 feet above the highest point of the vehicle and visible from all directions.
City Administrator Lisa Schroedl said the final draft of the ordinances include everything that had been discussed previously and requested by the council. She said code enforcement officer Kelsie Evans would go over the ordinances with people when they come in to license their ATV or UTV.
Audience member Rod Worrell asked the council to consider extending the hours of operation, since most UTVs are now equipped with headlights and taillights.
Schroedl said state statute dictates that ATVs and UTVs are only able to operate from sunrise to sunset with the exception of if they are being used for snow removal.
“Cities can be more restrictive than state statutes, but they cannot be more lenient,” Schroedl said.
Councilman Kent Taylor said he did not have any additional changes to what had previously been discussed. By a 3-0 vote with Councilwoman Heather Lutter absent, the council approved the ordinance updates and waived the three unique readings.
Schroedl said the ordinance will be published and pamphlets will be available for those who own and operate ATVs and UTVs in the city limits.
In other business Monday, Todd Kicken provided the council with an update on the Ainsworth Golf Course clubhouse. Kicken said, after originally looking into building a new clubhouse, the costs were prohibitive and the course was instead planning to try to build a 16×24 addition on the south side of the current clubhouse as well as repair the west wall of the current building.
“We raised only $13,000 for a new $800,000 clubhouse, so that is not an option,” Kicken said.
He said the cost to repair the west side of the clubhouse and build the 16×24 addition would be closer to $100,000.
Mayor Joel Klammer said that type of project at the golf course seemed more realistic than a new clubhouse.
Golf Course Board member Robert Magill said the course had a good year in 2025, with membership increasing by 37. He said, with the help of the city, the Brown County Foundation and private donors, the golf course has updated its equipment.
“We are in a way better situation with the equipment than we were two years ago,” Magill said. “We made about $100,000 of upgrades there in the past year.”
Magill and Kicken said they would pursue potential grant opportunities with the help of the North Central Development Center for the clubhouse addition project.
In other action items, the council approved an administrative subdivision for an irregular parcel located in Tract 4, Block 1 of Morrow’s Subdivision, located on the west side of Meadville Avenue.
Schroedl said the lot was divided in 2022 but never came before the council. She said it was the same parcel the council had previously addressed with zoning changes.
The council approved a retainer agreement with Heather Sikyta to continue serving as the city’s LB 840 attorney. The city is not required to pay a retainer. Sikyta charges the city $200 per hour for any work performed reviewing LB 840 program issues or applications.
Klammer said Sikyta was an expert on the LB 840 program.
“Heather has been our LB 840 attorney for quite a while,” Klammer said. “We haven’t had to use her a lot.”
The council approved a recommendation from the LB 840 loan committee to award a $2,475 façade grant to an applicant. Schroedl said the business is actually outside the city limits, but the LB 840 program does allow for funds to be used for businesses outside the city limits that have an economic impact to the city.
The council approved a special designated liquor license request for the Sandhills Lounge to serve alcohol in the Ainsworth Conference Center from 3 p.m. Jan. 10 until 1 a.m. Jan. 11 during the Ainsworth Area Chamber of Commerce Gala.
The council approved several appointments and reappointments to various city boards and committees.
Dane Sears and Kirk Peterson were reappointed to three-year terms on the LB 840 Loan Committee.
Dave Spann and Kwynn Shelbourn were reappointed to three-year terms on the Ainsworth Betterment Committee. Kara Welch was appointed to the ABC Committee replacing Mary Ritter, and Ashley Schroeder was appointed to the ABC Committee replacing Bryan Doke.
The council reappointed Lance Schipporeit, Harlin Welch, Chris Lammers and Rick Goochey to staggered terms on the City Planning Commission.
Klammer said state statute now allows the City Council to serve as the Board of Adjustment, and Klammer said he will have recommendations to disband that committee and potentially others during the next council meeting.
That meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Jan. 14.
* Brown County Commissioners Tuesday agenda
(Posted 6:45 a.m. Dec. 16)
Brown County Commissioners
Meeting 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16
Brown County Courthouse
Agenda
Roll Call.
Acknowledge posting of Open Meetings Law.
Opening Prayer.
Pledge of Allegiance.
Approve minutes of the 12-2-2025 regular meeting.
Kenneth Turpin Road Department update
Resolution regarding the transfer of funds and closure of the Brown County DARE program checking account at West Plains Bank – Sheriff’s Office
Resolution regarding a budgeted transfer of funds from Miscellaneous General within the General Fund to reappraisal fund $18,000.00
Set 2026 Landfill Fees
Kayla and Andrew Smidt – Landfill fees
Add Nadine Starkey to Homestead Safety deposit box and remove Becky Hardy from all accounts and safety deposit box.
Sign Permit Renewal – “Discover the Sandhills” 802002268SA located along Highway 20 Reference Post 226.80 – John Gross property – Clerk
Sign Permit Renewal –– “Discover the Sandhills” 802002517NB located N side of Hwy 20 Outside of Long Pine Reference Post 251.70 – Daniel & Angela Hladky – landowner – Clerk
Sign Permit Renewal – “KBR solid waste” – 802002437NB located North side Hwy 20 Reference Post 243.70 – Nebraska Public power District- landowner – Clerk
Brown County Ambulance 1) Budget Adjustment
2) Trade in Equipment (2 Life Pac Unit)
Setting of Officials salaries for the 2027 – 2030 term.
Revisit Time Management system
Tuition Reimbursement for Zach Welch
Heating and Electric bills – Senior Center Dennis Bauer
Homestead Bank sign for Payroll renewal
Open sealed bids – Long Pine Building site
Executive Session to discuss raises for the following departments: Courthouse Custodian, Emergency Management, Veterans Service Officer, Weed and Zoning – Hobbs
Approve Claims
Correspondence
Public Comment
* Area students to graduate from UNK Friday
(Posted 2:45 p.m. Dec. 15)
Graduate and undergraduate degrees will be conferred for 362 winter graduates during the University of Nebraska-Kearney commencement exercises at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 19, in the UNK Health and Sports Center.
Area students graduating from UNK Friday are:
Theresa Fahrenholz of Stuart, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree in early childhood education
Mindy Jo Frickel of Atkinson, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree in early childhood education
Courtney Swisher of Halsey, graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 10 a.m. Dec. 15)
December 7
An inmate was booked into the Brown County Jail on a court ordered commitment.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Johnstown and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A deputy responded to a two-vehicle accident in Ainsworth.
December 8
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a citation on a charge of not coming to a stop at a stop sign in the school zone.
An inmate was released from the Brown County Jail.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A deputy responded to a verbal altercation between family members in Long Pine. Both parties involved were separated for the night.
The sheriff and a deputy took a report of an intoxicated person stopping in front of them and threatening the reported party in Ainsworth. This is an ongoing investigation.
A deputy received a report of a possible drunk driver traveling westbound on Highway 20. The reported vehicle was not found in Brown County.
December 9
The sheriff took a report of possible child abuse. This is an ongoing investigation.
December 10
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for traveling 10 mph over the posted speed limit.
December 11
The sheriff and a deputy checked on the welfare of children in Long Pine.
A deputy, with the assistance of the Ainsworth Volunteer Fire Department, provided traffic control for a feed truck that broke down on Highway 20.
A deputy investigated a fender bender accident that occurred during traffic control.
A deputy responded to a mental health call in Ainsworth.
A deputy investigated an abandoned vehicle at a local business in Ainsworth.
December 12
The Brown County Ambulance Association assisted the Brown County Hospital with transferring a patient.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not having his hay bales properly tied down.
Deputies responded to a bank alarm in Ainsworth. Deputies walked through the bank and everything was found to be ok.
Brown County Dispatch received a report of Viaero tower lights not working properly in Ainsworth and on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. Dispatch notified Viaero tech support.
The sheriff and deputies received several complaints about a red and black pickup with no license plates driving recklessly and doing “donuts” in county road intersections.
December 13
A deputy investigated a single vehicle accident on Highway 7.
Deputies were called to a possible gas leak in Ainsworth. A deputy investigated the reported area and found that the gas meter was recently worked on and the meter was not leaking.
A traffic stop was made on a vehicle driving on the Cowboy Trail. The driver received a written warning for operating a vehicle in a prohibited area.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver was given a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth on a previously reported red and black pickup that has been driving around carelessly on county roads. The driver received a citation on charges of no proof of insurance, no registration, no driver’s license on person and careless driving. The vehicle was towed due to the vehicle not being registered and not having valid insurance.
Deputies responded to a possible mental health call.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 899
Calls for service – 16
911 emergency calls – 6
Vehicle titles inspected – 5
Firearms permits purchased – 6
Jail inmates housed – 1
* Ainsworth City Council Monday agenda
(Posted 2 p.m. Dec. 13)
Ainsworth City Council
Meeting 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15
Ainsworth Conference Center
Agenda
- Call to Order
- I. Routine Business
- Announcement of Open Meetings Act
- Roll Call
- Pledge of Allegiance
- II. Consent Agenda – All items approved with the passage of one motion
- Approve minutes from the November 12, 2025 regular meeting
- Approval of claims
- Treasurer’s report
- Department head reports
- III. Mayor’s Appointments and Report
- Mayor’s Report
- Mayor’s Appointments:
- LB840 Loan Committee (3-year terms): Reappointments of Dane Sears and Kirk Peterson with terms ending 11/01/2028
- Ainsworth Betterment Committee (3-year terms): Reappointments of Dave Spann with term ending 10/14/2028; and Kwynn Shelbourn with term ending 10/14/2027; Appointment of Kara Welch, replacing Mary Ritter, with term ending 10/14/2028; and Ashley Schroeder, replacing Bryan Doke, with term ending 10/14/2027
- Planning Commission (3-year terms): Reappointments of Lance Schipporeit with term ending 12/02/2027; Harlin Welch and Chris Lammers with terms ending 12/02/2028; and Rick Goochey with term ending 12/2/2026
- IV. Public Hearings
- None
- V. Old Business
- Discuss and consider a proposal regarding ownership of the property at 352 N. Wilson
- VI. Regular Agenda
- Ainsworth Municipal Golf Course – update report
- Discuss and consider Ordinance #1565: All-Terrain and Utility Type Vehicles amendment
- Consider a request for the administrative subdivisions of the following described real estate: An irregular parcel of land located in Tract 4, Block 1, Morrow’s Subdivision, Replat of City Second Addition to the City of Ainsworth, Brown County, Nebraska
- Discuss and consider Resolution #25-10: Authorizing the Mayor to sign the retainer agreement for Heather L. Sikyta to act as the LB840 attorney for the city
- Consider the recommendation by the LB840 Loan Committee:
- Approve application #25-10 Façade in the amount of $6,330.00
- Consider a Special Designated Liquor License for the Sandhills Lounge for the Chamber Gala to be held at the Community Center from 3:00 p.m. January 10, 2026 and ending at 1:00 a.m. January 11, 2026
- City Administrator/Clerk/Treasurer Report
- VII. Adjourn
* Hallock, Knox discuss pharmacy transition
(Posted 12:45 p.m. Dec. 12)
Brown County Hospital Administrator Mirya Hallock and Rock County Hospital Administrator Stacey Knox discussed the Brown County Hospital transitioning its pharmacy business to the Rock County Hospital, which will open a location in the former Homestead Bank drive-through building.
Beginning in the spring, the Rock County Pharmacy will offer a tele-pharmacy at that location, with a Rock County pharmacist available via technology to interact with customers. Prescriptions will be available for pickup from that location, and the Rock County Pharmacy will continue to provide its delivery service in Ainsworth.
The conversation between Hallock, Knox and KBRB’s Graig Kinzie can be heard below.
* Ainsworth Pharmacy to close; Rock County stepping in
(Posted 7:30 a.m. Dec. 10)
The Ainsworth Pharmacy Board and Brown County Hospital Board of Trustees announced their intention to dissolve the Ainsworth Pharmacy entity in 2026.
The Brown County Hospital granted Ainsworth Pharmacy the necessary funding to purchase Ainsworth Drug in November 2024, which, according to the Board of Trustees, was a move aimed at ensuring the community retained access to a local pharmacy.
Since then, the Ainsworth Pharmacy Board and Brown County Hospital board worked to secure a new location and design updated facilities, including drive-up access and improved security.
However, the board determined the pharmacy’s future became uncertain in August with the unexpected departure of its sole pharmacist.
With the current pharmacy license, a pharmacist must be onsite for patients to pick up prescriptions. Brown County Hospital Administrator Mirya Hallock said the loss of the pharmacist created immediate challenges.
“Thankfully, West Holt Pharmacy had pharmacists they could send to Ainsworth to assist us,” Hallock said. “After some time, we were able to employ a contracted, temporary pharmacist to provide a regular schedule.”
Despite the interim efforts, Hallock said the long-term concerns proved significant. The boards cited the cost of constructing a new facility and ongoing difficulties recruiting a full-time pharmacist to the region as key factors in their decision to dissolve the pharmacy and pursue an alternative model of service.
Knowing the importance of having a pharmacy in the local communities, Hallock said the Brown County Hospital and Rock County Hospital collaborated on a solution to continue local services in both communities.
Under a tele-pharmacy license, Rock County Pharmacy will operate a second location with real time face-to-face interaction via technology services. Rock County Pharmacy is now collaborating with the state of Nebraska to secure all required equipment and approvals to open the new tele-pharmacy in the former Homestead Bank drive-up building on Main Street in Ainsworth.
Ainsworth Pharmacy will continue full operation through the end of February, potentially into March, when the new tele-pharmacy is expected to become operational. Hallock said customers can expect continuity in familiar staff, who plan to remain with the new business.
Rock County Hospital Administrator Stacey Knox said the Rock County Hospital and Pharmacy is excited to continue pharmacy service in Ainsworth.
“It is an important need for the medical community there and we are pleased to collaborate with the Brown County boards.” Knox said.
Knox said pharmacist in charge Josh Coyle has been working with state licensure and pharmacy divisions to determine what is needed to provide a seamless transition.
“It is our hope that our pharmacy is ready to open when Brown County services end.” Knox said.
The Ainsworth location, yet to be named, will provide prescriptions as well as being a drop-off point for prescriptions brought from Bassett.
Coyle said, “We expect the same level of high-quality service to be available at the Ainsworth location as what patients have received in Bassett. We will also provide an over-the-counter selection so patients can have one stop to get what they need and plans are to keep the drive thru operational as well.”
Hallock said, “We appreciate the efforts of Rock County Hospital and Pharmacy to continue serving our community.”
* Care center audit shows major financial improvement
(Posted 1:30 p.m. Dec. 9)
Auditor Steve Placke with Lutz Accounting of Grand Island told the Sandhills Care Center Board of Directors Monday the facility was in a pretty good spot financially.
“The impact from the growth in your census is monumental,” Placke said. “There are a lot of good trends with what I see. That you have an operating profit this year is a good story.”
Placke said his company handles audits for more than 30 facilities across the state.
“Some facilities’ bottom lines are a lot tougher to look at than yours,” he said
With the increase in census, Placke said the Sandhills Care Center has been able to lower its average cost of care per resident per day, while revenue has steadily increased during the past two years.
The care center generated $2.51 million in revenue during 2023 with expenses of $2.90 million. In 2024, revenue increased to $3.07 million while expenses came in at $3.01 million. For 2025, the care center has generated $3.67 million in revenue with expenses of $3.30 million.
The average rate to care for a resident per day went from $344 in 2023 to $313 per day in 2024, and has decreased to $293 per day for 2025. The facility generates on average $326 per day in revenue from each resident. That is up from $319 in revenue per day on average in 2024 and up from $298 per day in 2023.
Daily revenue per resident varies based on whether the resident pays privately, receives Medicaid assistance or is covered by Medicare. Placke said, while Medicaid reimbursement rates don’t typically cover the average daily cost of care, he said the reimbursement rates have increased.
“You still don’t recoup all your costs from Medicaid, but it is closer now than it has been for 15 to 20 years,” Placke said.
Medicaid reimbursed the care center an average of $252 per day in 2023. That increased to $284 per day for 2024 and is up to $299 per day in 2025.
“Your cash flow has gone from a negative $98,000 to a positive $107,000,” Placke said. “For a smaller facility, you are in a pretty good spot right now.”
Placke said the average cost per day to care for a resident for the 30 to 35 facilities his company audits is $305.
“Your $293 cost per day is right around that average,” Placke said. “That number has come down from $313 per day last year.”
The board thanked Placke for presenting information from the audit. Board member Kent Taylor said the board needs to have the audit presented in this way each year.
“This is great information for us,” Taylor said.
Administrator Penny Jacobs reported there are currently 31 residents calling the Sandhills Care Center home, though she anticipated two residents would be discharged from the facility back into the community in the next week.
She said the facility admitted one new resident during the past month, with two residents passing away and two being discharged.
Of the 31 current residents, 12 pay privately, three receive Medicare coverage and 16 receive Medicaid assistance. Of the current census, 13 are Ainsworth residents, nine are from Cherry County, six are from rural Brown County, two are from Long Pine, and there is one resident from both Keya Paha County and Rock County.
Jacobs said the care center hired a CNA student who will begin employment with the care center as soon as she passes the final CNA test. She said the facility also hired two part-time registered nurses but is still in need of additional nursing staff and CNAs.
In action items Monday, with board member Dennis Bauer absent and Taylor abstaining, the board approved allowing the care center’s line of credit with West Plains Bank to expire. The facility has not had to utilize the line of credit in more than a year.
Business manager Makenzie Crane said all of the care center’s accounts are in good shape. She said, when revenue is collected and bills are paid for the month, the care center’s operating account has $180,055. There is an additional $126,718 in the facility’s interlocal account as well as $200,000 in certificates of deposit. The facility has a contingency fund of $20,238 it has built up to pay for any unforeseen or emergency expenses, and there is $19,673 in the care center’s donation account.
During November, the Sandhills Care Center generated $341,115 in revenue with expenses of $407,715 for a net loss for the month of $66,600. The facility also received $21,917 in property tax from the voter-approved levy that was deposited into the interlocal account and is to be used for facility upgrades.
Crane said the care center paid the entirety of its property, vehicle and liability insurance policy premium for the year in November, which accounted for $50,563 in expense. She said the $12,550 cost of the annual audit was paid in November, and the facility paid one agency staffing invoice for $13,598 to a company that had not submitted a bill for three months of an agency CNA.
Crane said agency staffing costs continue to trend downward, as the GetMed Staffing Agency was paid $26,043 in November, well below what the costs had been for the past several months.
Crane asked the board if it wanted to make any adjustments to the 401K retirement plan offered to full-time staff. Currently, the care center supplies a 1 percent match to the retirement account for full-time employees who make contributions. The board opted to leave the match at 1 percent for the upcoming year.
Jacobs presented the board with two reports from architects who had visited the facility. She said, while the reports don’t provide any specific plans, they both indicated areas for the board to focus on when considering improvements.
“Re-insulating the attic is a priority,” Jacobs said. “A lot of what we need to focus on won’t be very visible.”
Taylor said the improvements that need to be made first are not glamorous, but they should help the facility’s efficiency. He said, if the board engages the services of an architectural firm to make major upgrades, the cost of the architect typically runs between 5 percent and 8 percent of the total cost of the project.
Board Chairman Tom Jones said the board members could review the documents submitted by the firms and begin the strategic planning process to identify areas to improve. Jacobs said she would follow up with the board in January after members have time to review the reports.
The next meeting of the Sandhills Care Center Board of Directors is scheduled for 5 p.m. Jan. 12.
* School Board approves repairs to boiler system
(Posted 6:45 a.m. Dec. 9)
The Ainsworth Community Schools Board of Education on Monday approved a quote to replace three outdated boiler modules in the secondary school building. Superintendent Dale Hafer said Conditioned Air Mechanical suggested the module replacements. He said the price of the equipment would get more expensive in 2026.
“It will be interesting to see how efficient the system becomes,” Hafer said.
Board member Frank Beel said it made sense to get the boiler modules replaced now before the prices go up in 2026.
The modules cost $27,000 each for a total of $81,000. The district will use depreciation funds to replace the boiler modules.
In a related item Monday, the board approved $10,301 in repairs to the building’s HVAC system. Repair work includes valve and pipe insulator replacement. Hafer said the equipment being replaced is old.
Board member Brad Wilkins said, without replacing the valve and pipe insulator, there was a risk the system could dump the glycol used to cool the building. He said replacing the glycol in the system would cost the district $30,000.
The board unanimously approved the repair quote from Conditioned Air Mechanical, and will use depreciation funds to pay for the cost.
In other action items Monday, the board approved a request to allow seventh-grade student Cash Jenkins from Wood Lake to option in to the Ainsworth Community Schools District from the Valentine district. Hafer said he had no concerns with approving the option enrollment request.
The board approved the first reading of the revision of school policies 706.01 and 706.03 that both make adjustments to the amount that can be spent before bids are required.
Hafer said the revision reflects a change in state statute and increases the amount that can be spent from $109,000 to $136,000 before bids are required.
The board also acknowledged the review of school policies 706 to 718.
Scott Steinhauser discussed funds donated to the school by the family of Ann and the late Denton Weichman. Steinhauser said the Weichman family made an initial donation to the school in 2023 to improve the learning center. That money was used to replace the learning center’s sound and lighting system.
“That has been a huge upgrade in there,” Steinhauser said. “Those who use it are very pleased. It was a very generous donation.”
Steinhauser said, when Denton Weichman passed away, the school was named as a memorial beneficiary.
“We talked about using those funds for more updates to the learning center,” Steinhauser said.
He said the initial plan was to use the money to replace the entry doors to the learning center and the curtains that lead back stage. He said anyone who has been in the learning center knows that, when there is a performance underway and someone leaves or enters, the doors are loud.
He said the cost to replace the doors was higher than he anticipated, so other options were being considered.
Hafer said the donations made by the Weichman family were very generous.
“We are working on some quotes,” the superintendent said. “If you are ok with it, we could work with Scott as they gather quotes and meet with the building and grounds committee. Maybe the district could help to get those projects completed.”
Hafer said he appreciated the Weichman family for their support of the school.
“The lighting and sound upgrades have been super,” Hafer said.
In discussing the district’s current financial picture, he said the new property tax credits from the state have resulted in schools receiving fewer property tax dollars in the fall.
Hafer said the state does not provide funds to schools from the credits until around February, so the district will utilize some of its CDs that are maturing in the short term.
“We received over $1 million in property tax credits from the state last year in February,” the superintendent said. “The CDs give us the ability to weather the timing of the shortfall in funding in the fall. We will replenish the CD funds in the spring.”
Following an executive session Monday, the board approved the superintendent’s evaluation and a contract with Hafer through the 2027-28 school year.
The next meeting of the Ainsworth Community Schools Board of Education is scheduled for 7 p.m. Jan. 12.
* Deer harvest continues recent decline
(Posted 3 p.m. Dec. 8)
Preliminary results from the 2025 Nebraska November firearm deer season show statewide harvest fell 7% from 2024, which was expected, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Harvest went from 28,056 last year to 26,029 this year. Given that populations are down after several years of drought, harsh winters, and disease outbreaks — and permit numbers have been reduced to aid in recovery — the lower harvest was no surprise.
Whitetail harvest is down 10% from last year. Whitetail buck harvest is off 3% from 2024. Antlerless harvest fell 26% from last year and 54% from five years ago.
Mule deer harvest rose 4% from last year. Mule deer buck harvest is up 6% from last year. Antlerless mule deer harvest is down 9% from last year and 67% from five years ago.
Game and Parks’ goal is for herds to recover to a high enough population that buck harvest can increase 20% for whitetail and 25% for mule deer.
“It’s important to remember herd recovery takes time,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. “We’ve taken action to help our deer populations rebound. We’ve reduced antlerless tags 64% over the last five years and buck permit sales have been reduced more than 15% — but we have a way to go before we get back to where we want to be.
“November Firearm permits were reduced 2% and antlerless tags were reduced 20% from last year, so the changes we’ve seen from last year’s harvest correlate with the changes in permits,” he said.
Meduna said hunters should start seeing the results of the reduced antlerless whitetail harvest in buck harvest results over the next few years.
Nebraska’s deer herds have faced several years of challenges, contributing to the current results. Permit numbers and harvest were increased in 2019 and 2020 to address depredation issues affecting producers across much of the state. Since then, severe drought has affected nearly all the state, increasing hemorrhagic disease and reducing habitat quantity and quality, which negatively impacted deer abundance. Severe winters also have reduced available food sources and increased stress, further affecting deer populations in northern Nebraska.
Available November Firearm permits have decreased each year since 2022. They decreased by 2% in 2025, 13% in 2024, 6% in 2023 and 4% in 2022.
Final harvest results will be available following the close of all deer seasons. Archery season closes Dec. 31, while muzzleloader season is Dec. 1-31. The late antlerless season is Jan. 1-15, while the River Antlerless late season is Jan. 1-15.
* Ambulance Association secures funds for new defibrillators
(Posted 11:45 a.m. Dec. 8)
The Brown County Ambulance Association received grant funding to move ahead with replacing the defibrillators in both of its mobile units after being notified service contracts could no longer be renewed due to the age of the current equipment.
Ensuring that both ambulances carry reliable, inspected defibrillators has been a top priority for maintaining strong emergency response across the county and is commensurate with state of Nebraska regulations for equipment maintenance requirements.
The ambulance association has secured the $85,322 needed for the two new defibrillator units. The association received $26,800 from the Brown County Foundation, $26,800 from the Ainsworth Betterment Committee, $21,000 from a Jack Lewis Safety Grant, $10,000 from the Brown County Hospital Auxiliary and $722 from private donations.
With funding secured, the Brown County Ambulance Association will proceed with purchasing and installing the new equipment so both ambulances are fully prepared for future calls.
The association extends its appreciation to everyone involved in making the project possible, including community partners who contributed funds, emergency responders who serve with dedication across a large rural region, and to the North Central Development Center for writing the application that secured the final grant for the project.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9:15 a.m. Dec. 8)
November 30
Deputies responded to a verbal disturbance in Ainsworth. The parties were separated for the night.
A deputy responded to a verbal disturbance where an individual would not leave the residence. The deputy walked the individual off the property.
December 1
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A deputy attended Interdiction to Protect Children Training in Valentine.
The sheriff’s office received a report of possible fraud in their bank account.
December 2
A deputy attended Interdiction to Protect Children Training in Valentine.
A deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20.
December 3
A deputy investigated a possible 911 hang up. The deputy was unable to locate the caller.
Deputies responded to a reported theft of a camper. A deputy was able to locate the described vehicle and camper driving eastbound on Highway 20. The deputy initiated a traffic stop. During the traffic stop, it was discovered that the camper was not stolen but the driver of the vehicle had a suspended/revoked driver’s license and the passenger had an extraditable warrant out of Saline County. Both the driver and the passenger were placed under arrest and transported to the Brown County Jail. The driver also received citations on charges of no valid registration for the vehicle and bald or improper use of tires. The passenger received citations on charges of possession of marijuana less than an ounce and possession of drug paraphernalia.
December 4
The Brown County Jail released an inmate to a Saline County deputy held on a warrant.
The sheriff’s office received a report of a possible mental health crisis. This is an ongoing investigation.
The sheriff’s office received a request to perform a welfare check on an Ainsworth family.
A deputy assisted the Ainsworth City Code Enforcement Officer in securing two dogs that have bitten multiple people in Ainsworth. The owner of the dogs received a citation for dangerous dogs.
December 5
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Long Pine.
The sheriff and a deputy provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 183.
The Brown County Jail released an inmate on a personal recognizance bond.
A deputy received a report of identity theft. This is an ongoing investigation.
December 6
A deputy was asked to check on a vehicle north on Highway 183 since it had been sitting in the ditch. The deputy was able to find the reported vehicle. After speaking to the driver of the vehicle it was determined that it was a traveler who began to get tired and pulled over to sleep for a few hours.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a citation for traveling 15 mph over the posted speed limit and given a written warning for not having a driver’s license on person.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a citation for traveling 10 mph over the posted speed limit and given a written warning for not having a driver’s license on person.
The sheriff’s office received a request to provide traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 7. By the time the deputy arrived, the cattle had already crossed the highway.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 761
Calls for service – 15
911 emergency calls – 7
Vehicle titles inspected – 6
Firearms permits purchased – 5
Inmates housed – 3
* Recent cases from Brown County Court
(Posted 10:45 a.m. Dec. 4)
In addition to fines, each case carries $50 in court costs
David G. Kramer, age 64, of Sterling, Colo., charged with speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, fined $125.
Tiffany A. Gerbig, 34, of Denver, Colo., 11-15 mph over the speed limit, $125.
Nick A. Jarzynka, 60, of Gretna, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Melanie R. Holloway, 50, of Thornton, Colo., speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $75.
Jimmy R. Douga, 46, of Richards, Texas, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Kendall W. Miller, 42, of Aurelia, Texas, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Jacen N. Rohwer, 30, of Bassett, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125; also charged with careless driving, $100.
Shannon M. Painter, 42, of Ainsworth, violation of a stop or yield sign, $75.
Matthew D. Esterly, 51, of Ainsworth, speeding 1-5 mph over the limit, $50.
Tod K. O’Hare, 65, of Ainsworth, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Amber N. Valadez, 34, of Lake Elsinore, Calif., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Henry Whited III, 29, of Springview, careless driving, $100.
Justin M. Nelson, 45, of Bassett, violation of a stop or yield sign, $75.
Gregory J. Boatright, 39, of Patterson, Ga., speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Valerie D. Martin, 47, of Aberdeen, S.D., speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Shaley Starkey, age not listed, Ainsworth, dangerous dog, $25 and ordered to pay $236 in restitution.
Katherine J. Ortner, 46, of Long Pine, violation of a stop or yield sign, $75.
Stanley N. Daniels, 48, of Ainsworth, violation of a stop or yield sign, $75.
Christiaan W. Bothma, 38, of Ainsworth, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Megan R. Grupe, 26, of Ainsworth, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Tyson C. Stengel, 23, of Valentine, possession of an open alcohol container in a vehicle, $50.
Shawn P. Robinson, 42, of Nenzel, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $75; no license on person, $25.
Braydon J. Lofgren, 21, of Wahoo, no valid registration, $25.
Jacob B. Wilkins, 29, of Columbus, speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, $200.
Ruben De La Rosa Jr., 19, of Edinburg, Texas, speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
Marvin J. Piper, 57, of Scribner, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit, $75.
Valarie L. Morris, 23, of Newport, assault by mutual consent/bodily injury, $100.
Laura M. Carpenter, 19, of Gilson, Ill., speeding 11-15 mph over the limit, $125.
* Commissioners approve final hospital bond payment
(Posted 9:30 a.m. Dec. 3)
The Brown County Commissioners on Tuesday approved the final bond payment for the voter-approved Brown County Hospital addition.
With the $215,591 approved by the commissioners for payment Dec. 15, the hospital addition will be paid in full.
The board, with Chairman Dennis Bauer absent Tuesday, also approved making a $273,012 bond payment for the Meadville Avenue renovation project. To make that payment, the board will use $64,336 from its highway buyback fund and $208,676 from the inheritance tax fund.
When approving the Meadville Avenue paving project to take advantage of less than 1 percent interest rates, the commissioners approved making interest only payments until the hospital bond payments were complete. The December payment will be the only one where full bond payments are made for both the hospital bond and the Meadville Avenue bond.
In other business Tuesday, the commissioners approved a resolution calling for the use of $99,327 from the county’s inheritance tax fund to pay for the upfront costs of the new dispatching equipment for the sheriff’s department, with the inheritance tax fund being reimbursed when the grant funding from the Nebraska Crime Commission is received.
The county received a grant for the full cost of the dispatching equipment. The inheritance tax fund will serve as a bridge funding source for the equipment until the grant funding is received.
In another financial item, the commissioners approved a $3,000 request from its miscellaneous general fund to assist in upkeep for county cemeteries.
The commissioners approved a resolution proceeding with foreclosure on property located at 733 N. Elm St. in Long Pine. County Attorney Andy Taylor said there is more than $1,100 in property taxes that have not been paid on the parcel going back numerous years.
Taylor said the property was not purchased during a sheriff’s tax sale, so the next step was to foreclose on the property. He said state statute dictates that the county foreclose, even if it does not want the property.
“We have put this off as long as we could,” Taylor said. “The property owner has been deceased for some time. The law says we have to foreclose.”
Commissioners Jeremiah Dailey and Don Painter discussed the condition of the property and their aversion to the county taking ownership, but Taylor said the county did not have a choice.
The county had previously taken ownership of a dilapidated property on Main Street in Long Pine and had the roads department tear down a building at that site.
The board approved the recommended appointment of Kate Samuelson to the BKR Extension Board to replace Kelly Gambill, whose term is expiring. Samuelson is the outreach coordinator for the Nature Conservancy’s Niobrara Valley Preserve and lives in Ainsworth.
Taylor reported he checked with the state and there was no mechanism for returning the $154 remaining in the DARE program account the board voted to close during its previous meeting.
Sheriff Brent Deibler said he planned to make a presentation to Ainsworth elementary students about staying drug free and would use the funds to give the students candy canes.
Deibler also told the commissioners the revised county employee handbook had been reviewed by Taylor and NIRMA. He asked the commissioners to review the recommended updates to the handbook and provide the committee with any requested changes before the handbook is finalized.
During his report, Turpin said the roads department was trying to keep county roads as smooth as possible during the harvest season.
“We fixed some holes in various areas,” Turpin said.
He said the roads department has been hauling clay from pits around the area to have on hand, and there are some ditches in the county the department could dig out and use the material elsewhere.
The highway superintendent said performing annual evaluations and providing merit wage increases had helped with the roads department’s turnover rate.
“They are not my favorite thing to do,” Turpin said. “They can be uncomfortable, but they are a great tool.”
Prior to adjourning, the commissioners held an executive session with elected officials to discuss setting salaries for those officials for the 2027-30 term. No action was taken following the executive session.
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Dec. 16.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 9:45 a.m. Dec. 1)
November 23
A deputy provided a civil standby in Ainsworth.
Deputies investigated a possible theft of money from a church in Ainsworth.
A deputy received a report of suspicious activity by juveniles in Ainsworth. The deputy was able to speak to the reported juveniles, and everything was found to be ok and they were worried about a dog that had been left in a vehicle for an extended period of the day.
November 24
Deputies provided traffic control for five different cattle crossings around Brown County.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver was given a repair order for failing to display the proper number of plates.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth on a semi-truck. The driver was given a citation for not coming to a stop at a stop sign.
November 25
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for driving without having headlights on and the license plates not being clear and visible.
A deputy was called to assist a Nebraska State Patrol trooper on a traffic stop on Highway 7. During the stop, the driver of the vehicle was placed under arrest on charges of possession of three controlled substances (methamphetamine, cocaine, and THC) and the driver was transported to the Brown County Jail.
The sheriff’s office received a report of suspicious vehicles following another vehicle for an extended period of time on Highway 7. A deputy was able to meet the vehicles on the highway and make a traffic stop on the reported suspicious vehicles for following too closely. The deputy was able to speak with the parties, and a written warning was issued for following too closely.
November 26
The sheriff’s office was notified of what appeared to be a lost juvenile. The sheriff responded to the reported area and was not able to locate the reported juvenile.
A deputy was asked to walk through a home in Johnstown to verify that the previous renters had moved out.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. During the traffic stop, it was discovered the driver had a suspended driver’s license. The driver was given a citation on a charge of driving with a suspended driver’s license and a verbal warning for having an unreadable license plate.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver was given a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver was given a written warning for speeding and driving left of center.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a repair order for headlights not working properly.
A Nebraska State Patrol trooper made a traffic stop in Ainsworth that resulted in the driver being arrested on a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was transported to the Brown County Jail.
November 27
An inmate was released from the Brown County Jail on bond.
An inmate was released from the Brown County Jail on a personal recognizance bond.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a citation for driving on the shoulder of the highway and not having proof of insurance.
November 28
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Ainsworth and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
November 29
A deputy responded to a verbal disturbance in Long Pine.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 for speeding. During the traffic stop, it was discovered the vehicle may have been stolen from another state. During the investigation and speaking with the actual owner of the vehicle and the reporting agency, it was determined that the vehicle was not stolen and the driver and the vehicle were released from the traffic stop.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 790
Calls for service – 15
911 emergency calls – 2
Vehicle titles inspected – 2
Firearms permits purchased – 2
Inmates housed – 3
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 7:45 a.m. Nov. 24)
November 16
The sheriff’s office took a written statement of inappropriate behavior in the reporting party’s household. This is an ongoing investigation.
The sheriff’s office arrested a 42-year-old man for attempted first degree sexual assault of a minor. This is an ongoing investigation.
November 17
Deputies performed a welfare check on a suspicious vehicle at the Long Pine State Park. The deputy was able to contact the owner of the reported vehicle, and everything was found to be ok.
Deputies conducted a search warrant on a house in Springview.
November 18
A traffic stop was made just outside of Ainsworth. The driver received citations on charges of exhibition driving and muffler required in good working order.
The Brown County Jail released an inmate on bond.
November 19
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for speeding 18 mph over the posted limit.
A deputy received a complaint about an individual exposing their genitals to another person in a public place. The deputy was able to speak with the reported person. After the investigation was completed, the person was given a citation on a charge of public indecency.
A deputy was notified of suspicious activity of an individual walking around Ainsworth near local businesses. The deputy patrolled the reported area and was not able to find the reported person.
A deputy investigated a report of a drunk individual trying to get into a business after the business had already closed for the night. Once the individual was told that the business was closed for the night, the individual left.
November 20
The sheriff and a deputy responded to a reported vehicle that was stuck in a ditch in rural Brown County. Upon arrival the driver was contacted still inside of the vehicle. The driver was later arrested on a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol and cited for possession of drug paraphernalia.
A traffic stop was made in Long Pine. The driver received a citation for failing to use a child passenger restraint.
November 21
A deputy was asked to walk around a residence in Ainsworth due to a loud bang outside their front door. The deputy walked around the property and was unable to find anyone or anything unusual.
The Ainsworth Volunteer Fire Department and Long Pine Volunteer Fire Department responded to a fire in Rock County as mutual aid.
A traffic stop was made on Meadville Avenue. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
November 22
The sheriff’s office received a report of check fraud. This is an ongoing investigation.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7 on a vehicle driving 98 mph. The driver received a citation for speeding 33 mph over the posted limit.
A traffic stop was made on Meadville Avenue. The driver received a repair order for not having a registered vehicle and not having proof of ownership of the vehicle.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a citation for driving 13 mph over the posted speed limit.
A deputy responded to a mental health call in Ainsworth.
Weekly Log
Calls – 733
Calls for service – 11
911 emergency calls – 6
Vehicle titles inspected – 4
Firearms permits purchased – 1
Inmates housed – 2
* Board approves funds toward pond improvements
(Posted 3:15 p.m. Nov. 18)
The Brown County Commissioners on Tuesday approved allocating $5,000 from its miscellaneous general fund to put toward the second phase of the community fishing pond project.
Commissioner Dennis Bauer said the pond looks good and was holding water better than he anticipated.
“I have been giving this some thought,” Bauer said. “I got some calls about weeds this summer so I went and seeded it this fall and got a good stand of bluegrass and fescue started between the water’s edge and the trail.”
Bauer said there was about $5,000 remaining in the pond line item in the county’s budget, and the Lions Club has about $1,600 left that is allocated to the pond.
“I would propose we put a cement sidewalk around it, 4 feet wide and 4 inches thick, place four to six park benches so people could sit by the water’s edge and plant some shade trees by the benches,” Bauer said. “I will spearhead that project.”
Bauer said red maple and bald cypress trees would grow well near the water’s edge. He said he, with help from the roads department, would take care of the forms and the labor needed when the concrete is poured. He estimated the cost of the concrete at $12,000 to $13,000 and the total project would be around $19,000 or little higher.
“It would be about a quarter mile around the pond if people wanted to walk around it,” Bauer said. “I would ask if the commissioners would put $5,000 toward the project from the miscellaneous general fund and we could raise the rest from other organizations.”
Bauer said his goal would be to have the concrete path finished, the benches placed and the trees planted by June 1, 2026.
Audience member Graig Kinzie thanked Bauer for taking the lead on the second phase of the project. Kinzie offered to see if the Lions Club would again be a partner to apply to the Ainsworth Betterment Committee for $5,000 for the second phase of the project, and he said he would fill out an application to the Brown County Foundation on the county’s behalf for $5,000 to go toward the project if awarded.
Bauer indicated he would also apply to the Brown County Visitors Committee and to the KBR Rural Public Power Operation Round Up Program for funds for the project.
The commissioners unanimously approved using $5,000 from the county’s miscellaneous general fund toward the project.
In other business Tuesday, Sheriff Brent Deibler discussed a letter sent to the county from NACO to gauge the county’s interest in negotiating a contract to house prisoners in the Brown County Jail on behalf of another entity.
Deibler said he wasn’t advocating in favor or against the request, but he said he would have several stipulations that would need to be agreed to for him to be interested in housing prisoners from outside the area.
“It would have to be safe for the community, would have to bring us income, and would have to comply by the rules of our jail,” Deibler said. “If those are met, I am ok with it.”
Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey said he believed those were good criteria that would need to be agreed to for the county to consider any contract.
“I don’t want to bring in any problems,” Dailey said. “I am ok to leave it up to the sheriff’s discretion.”
Bauer said the county would likely need more information before making a decision on whether to negotiate a contract. Deibler said, since the request came from NACO, he did not know if the request is from the state or if it is a federal request. He said he would obtain additional information and report back to the commissioners at a future meeting.
The board voted to close the DARE program bank account as requested by Deibler. The sheriff said the account had been inactive for at least the past eight years. There is currently $154 remaining in the account.
The board approved closing the account. Taylor said he would check to see if the funds were earmarked for a specific purpose and if the county would need to return the funds to the state.
After agreeing to the appointment during its previous meeting, the board on Tuesday approved a resolution appointing Ann Fiala to the Brown County Hospital Board of Trustees to fill the remainder of Deibler’s term, which expires in December 2026.
The board tabled a request to provide $3,000 for the maintenance of the East Woodlawn and Grand Prairie cemeteries. Bauer said the group approached the county about assistance for the maintenance and upkeep of the cemeteries during the summer.
“They presented this request to us, and I don’t remember us having any objections,” Bauer said. “But, we didn’t get a line item into the budget. We could provide it through the miscellaneous general fund. I think it is important to keep up the rural cemeteries.”
County Attorney Andy Taylor said he could draft a resolution and have it available for the commissioners to consider during their next meeting.
During his report, Highway Superintendent Kenny Turpin said the roads department finished cleaning the ditch on South Pine Avenue and used the material to firm up a sandy area of a road in that area.
Turpin said he helped out at the Brown County Fairgrounds last Thursday and Friday, using the scraper to move some dirt for the agricultural society.
The highway superintendent said he issued a permit to Prouty Construction to put a water line under 430th Avenue, and approved a permit for KBR Rural Public Power to run an electric line under Road 877 near Long Pine.
He said the roads department planned to remove more trees along county road right of way if the weather holds. Turpin said he would like to have the department construct about a dozen auto gates during winter since the county was down to about five on hand.
Turpin requested he be allowed to purchase heaters for the Ainsworth and Johnstown road shops. He said the cost would be $1,000 to $1,500 and he did have the heaters included in his budget.
Following an executive session Tuesday for Turpin’s annual performance evaluation, the commissioners approved providing Turpin a wage increase of $1.46 per hour.
Wage decisions for the custodian, emergency management, weed superintendent and zoning administrator were tabled until the board’s Dec. 16 meeting, at which time the commissioners will also set the salaries for elected officials for the 2027-30 cycle.
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Dec. 2.
* Storer discusses interim activity, upcoming session
(Posted 11:30 a.m. Nov. 18)
Nebraska 43rd District State Sen. Tanya Storer visited with KBRB’s Graig Kinzie, discussing her work during the interim period, the bills she is working on for the 2026 session and the budget shortfall the Legislature will have to address.
The conversation can be heard below in two parts.
* Clay receives NHA Caring Kind Award
(Posted 11:30 a.m. Nov. 18)
Rock County Hospital and Long Term Care recognized Michael Clay, the 2025 recipient of the Nebraska Hospital Association Caring Kind award for the facility. The award is given during the NHA annual conference and recognized Clay with the following nomination:
“Michael works as an LPN and charge nurse in our long-term care. He is kind and compassionate with our residents and their families. He is always willing to lend a helping hand whether it be at work donating vacation hours to co-workers in need or assembling some new facility furniture or outside of work when he helped a co-worker find a replacement vehicle. He is a member of the volunteer ambulance association. He was recently voted as our employee of the month by our Long-Term Care residents. He joined the Nebraska Nurse Honor Guard to continue his support of the nursing profession and all of those within. Michael is not only a charge nurse but he works every day to advance the knowledge of his co-workers. He listens to all team members so they can continue to provide the best care possible. Because of his leadership in nursing, he has influenced others to pursue education to become a nurse and to even return to our facility to work. He continues to go above and beyond in the field of nursing and we are fortunate to have him as a part of our stellar long-term care nursing team. Michael has been a team member for nine years.”
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 3:30 p.m. Nov. 17)
November 9
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver was given a written warning for driving left of center.
November 10
The sheriff’s office was asked to give a death notification of a family member.
Deputies collected a couple of driver’s licenses in Brown County after receiving notifications from Nebraska DMV for license pickup orders.
A traffic stop was made on Meadville Avenue. The driver was given a warning for incorrect license plates on their vehicle.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 7. The driver received a citation for driving 17 mph over the posted speed limit.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
November 11
A deputy was requested to perform a welfare check on a student who did not show up to school in Ainsworth. The student was found to be ok and was just feeling ill.
A deputy was requested to perform a welfare check on a Long Pine resident. The resident was found to be ok.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received citations on charges of driving 12 mph over the posted speed limit and careless driving.
The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a call in Long Pine and transported a patient to the Brown County Hospital.
A deputy investigated a two-vehicle accident where one of the vehicles left the scene of the accident without furnishing information.
A deputy responded to a verbal altercation in Ainsworth. An individual received a citation on a charge of disturbing the peace and was dropped off at the hotel for the night.
November 12
The sheriff provided security during district court in Ainsworth.
The Brown County Jail booked an individual for a court ordered commitment.
A deputy transported an individual to Lincoln Correctional Center for a court commitment.
The sheriff responded to a broken-down semi blocking traffic at the intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 183. The sheriff assisted until the semi was able to be towed back to Ainsworth.
The sheriff’s office received reports of a vehicle-deer accident near Keller Park on Highway 183. A deputy responded and before he got to the described location the vehicle left.
The sheriff’s office received robocall of a location of a possible accident west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. Deputies searched the area that was reported and were unable to locate an accident.
November 13
The sheriff’s office received a report of a child custody problem between parents.
The sheriff and a deputy investigated a report of harassment at a business in Ainsworth.
A deputy responded to a complaint about a vehicle struggling to maintain its lane on Highway 20. The deputy was able to locate the vehicle and observed the vehicle to be driving appropriately.
A deputy investigated a report of suspicious activity of a vehicle in Ainsworth.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for driving on the shoulder of the highway.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
November 14
The sheriff’s office took a report of suspicious activity at a business in Rock County with the vehicle coming toward Brown County. A deputy was able to find the vehicle and contact the driver. Everything turned out to be ok and there was a misunderstanding between the reporting party and the driver of the vehicle.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a repair order for vehicle headlights not working properly.
A deputy made a traffic stop on Highway 183 on a vehicle driving 118 mph. Both the driver and a passenger in the vehicle were placed under arrest. The driver was charged with possession of a controlled substance (THC), possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, driving under the influence of alcohol, minor in possession of alcohol, possession/consumption of an open alcohol container, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding 36+ mph, and willful reckless driving. The passenger of the vehicle was charged with possession of a controlled substance (THC), possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, minor in possession of alcohol, minor in possession of electronic nicotine use, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession/consumption of an open alcohol container.
November 15
A deputy received a request to perform a welfare check on a Long Pine resident. The person was found to be ok.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding and no driver’s license on person.
A traffic stop was made east of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a citation for driving 15 mph over the posted speed limit.
The Brown County Jail released two inmates on bond.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign.
A deputy investigated a vehicle-deer accident in the Long Pine hills on Highway 20. The driver of the vehicle requested to take possession of the deer and was issued a permit to possess roadkill deer.
A deputy spoke with an individual who recently got kicked out of the house where he was staying. The individual was waiting on a ride to go to a friend’s house to stay.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 847
Calls for service – 22
911 emergency calls – 11
Vehicle titles inspected – 5
Inmates housed – 1
* Brown County Commissioners Tuesday agenda
(Posted 2:15 p.m. Nov. 17)
Brown County Commissioners
Meeting 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18
Brown County Courthouse
Agenda
Roll Call.
Acknowledge posting of Open Meetings Law.
Opening Prayer.
Pledge of Allegiance.
Approve minutes of the 11-4-2025 regular meeting.
Kenneth Turpin Road Department update
Resolution to appoint Ann Fiala to replace Brent Deibler on the Brown County Hospital Board of Trustees
County Surveyor – Turpin
County Highway Superintendent review and pay raise – Board
Raises for the following departments: Courthouse Custodian, Emergency Management, Veterans Service Officer, Weed and Zoning – Hobbs
Letter regarding housing out of county prisoners in the Brown County jail – Deibler
East Woodlawn and Grand Prairie cemeteries $2,000 budget request – Jackman
Proposal RE: Closure of Brown County D.A.R.E. Program Bank Account – Lanas
County, Community Pond project – Bauer
Resolution Budgeted Transfer of $450,000 from Miscellaneous General within General to County Highway Fund – Clerk
Approve Claims
Correspondence
Public Comment
* Bassett student wins NDOT Name a Snow Plow Contest
(Posted 10:45 a.m. Nov. 14)
Nebraska Department of Transportation District 8 employees will visit Bassett Grade School at 1:45 p.m. Tuesday to recognize one of 16 winners in NDOT’s 2025 Name-a-Snowplow competition.
NDOT selected “Polar Express” from nearly 4,500 entries. Each winning name will be displayed on one of NDOT’s snowplows, which are part of a fleet of more than 600—each trackable in real time on Nebraska 511.
The school celebration will include a presentation by NDOT maintenance employees, recognition of the winning student or class, and an opportunity for students to tour the newly named snowplow and ask questions. NDOT employees will be available for interviews.
Now in its fifth year, NDOT’s Name-a-Snowplow competition teaches students (and future drivers) about winter road safety and the essential work of snowplow operators. The contest is open to K–6 students statewide, with two winners selected from each of NDOT’s eight geographical districts.
* NPPD Board approves 3 percent retail rate increase
(Posted 7 a.m. Nov. 14)
Nebraska Public Power District’s board of directors approved a 3% retail and 1% wholesale rate increase during its November meeting.
The average residential retail customer uses around 1,000 kilowatts of electricity a month, and based on this amount, would experience an increase of about $5 per month.
“NPPD’s strong history of maintaining low rates has enabled existing customers to grow within the state and has attracted new industries looking to establish operations in Nebraska, driving economic growth across the communities we serve,” NPPD President and CEO Tom Kent said. “We continue to manage costs at a time when inflation, supply chain constraints, and rising material, fleet, and facility expenses present challenges. Despite these pressures, our focus remains on delivering affordable, reliable energy, and that commitment is reflected in how NPPD’s rates compare to peer utilities across the nation.”
NPPD benchmarks its retail rate using data from U.S. Energy Information Administration, who collected data from over 2,600 utilities across the nation. According to finalized EIA data for 2024, NPPD continues to meet the goal to maintain a total retail base rate position among the lowest 15 percent of providers, with the most recent ranking finishing in the lowest 6.5 percent.
NPPD benchmarks its wholesale rates, using a database maintained by the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation. The large group includes more than 800 electric utilities, across the nation, which purchase wholesale power. NPPD’s Board of Directors set a goal to remain in the lowest 25 percent and NPPD continues to meet that goal by finishing at the 12.5 percentile in the most recent rankings.
In addition, the NPPD Board of Directors has voted to provide approximately $30.8 million to wholesale customers, which will appear in the form of a Production Cost Adjustment credit on wholesale customer bills. This is the eighth consecutive year that NPPD’s wholesale customers will receive a PCA credit.
* Highway 20 reduced speed zone will expand east
(Posted 7 a.m. Nov. 13)
The Nebraska Department of Transportation agreed to conduct a traffic study on Highway 20 and Highway 7 in Ainsworth after receiving requests from the Ainsworth City Council and the Brown County Sheriff’s Department to decrease the speed limits on the two highways in the city.
The NDOT provided the results of that traffic study Wednesday to the City Council, agreeing to extend the 35 mph speed zone farther to the east on Highway 20 but declining to change the limits on the western and southern approaches.
City Administrator Lisa Schroedl told the council the 35 mph speed limit would be extended 1,200 feet east of Hunt Street on the eastern edge of the city, with the 45 mph speed limit also moving the same distance.
Councilman Brad Fiala said he was disappointed in the study.
“I was hoping the 45 mph limit would extend past the church,” Fiala said.
Councilman Dustin Barthel said the NDOT did not extend the reduced speeds very far and it denied his request to extend a no passing zone farther east on Highway 20.
Councilman Kent Taylor said the city would need to update its ordinance to include the reduced speed limits on the east side of the city. He asked if the city also needed to remove the 25 mph school zone speed limit from its ordinance since there are no longer 25 mph signs in place after Highway 20 was renovated.
Schroedl said she would have City Attorney Michael Sholes review the ordinance taking the NDOT study into account and draft an update for the council to approve.
In another streets item Wednesday, the council approved an agreement with Olsson Associates to have the company serve as the city’s streets superintendent for 2026 as well as handle on-call professional engineering services for the city.
Schroedl said most area communities use their contracted engineering firm as their streets superintendent.
“To have them as our street superintendent, we have to have an agreement for them to also be our engineering firm,” Schroedl said. “Then, they can serve as our street superintendent.”
Schroedl said the cost for the street superintendent portion of the agreement would not exceed $3,000, which is the amount the city receives from the Nebraska Department of Transportation in highway allocation funds for having a certified streets superintendent to prepare the city’s one- and six-year streets plan and complete other paperwork required by the NDOT.
Schroedl said Jess Hurlbert with Olsson Associates, who has done engineering work for the city in the past, is a certified street superintendent.
The council approved the agreement. Olsson Associates replaces Niobrara Valley Consultants of Valentine, which had served as the city’s streets superintendent for numerous years.
Under the on-call professional engineering agreement with Olsson Associates, the city would be billed on a per-hour basis only for services requested.
In a related item, the council approved a resolution affirming the city had a certified streets superintendent for 2025, which allows the city to receive the $3,000 incentive payment from the NDOT.
The council approved two façade applications as recommended by the LB 840 loan committee and voted to deny a business loan application as recommended.
Schroedl said one façade grant application approved for $9,309 goes to the Brown County Historical Society for improvements to the Coleman House Museum on Highway 20. The council also waived the application fee since the historical society is a non-profit organization.
The second façade grant, approved by a 3-0 vote with Barthel abstaining, will go to Northern Plains Supply for signage for their business being constructed just east of Ainsworth.
Schroedl said, even though the business is outside city limits, the LB 840 program does allow applications for businesses to be approved if they provide an economic impact to Ainsworth.
Schroedl said the LB 840 loan committee recommended the $500,000 business loan application be denied for the simple fact that the LB 840 fund did not have $500,000 available to loan.
She said the loan would have been for the acquisition of an existing business.
The council approved two administrative subdivisions, turning one larger parcel outside city limits but inside the city’s 1-mile zoning jurisdiction into three smaller parcels.
The first subdivision creates a 1.438-acre parcel, with the second creating a 1.088-acre parcel. The property is located in the southwest quarter of the southeast quarter of Section 26, Township 30 North, Range 22 West.
Schroedl said the council has approved similar administrative subdivisions in the past. She said the property is zoned commercial, and the use of the property would not change.
The council again discussed making changes to the city’s UTV ordinances. Schroedl provided the council with a draft created by Code Enforcement Officer Kelsie Evans that would update the UTV ordinance.
Evans said changes include removing the weight limit on UTVs since there is now no limit on the weight of the vehicles in state statute. She said UTVs are allowed to operate on both Highway 20 and Highway 7 inside city limits. Hours of operation would remain dawn until dusk with the exception of when removing snow, as that remains in state statute.
The ordinance would require anyone younger than 19 to wear a helmet while operating or riding in a UTV, and seat belts would be required.
Audience member Rod Worrell questioned the age requirement for the helmets.
Fiala said, if it is not a state statute, he would be OK with helmets being required for riders age 12 and under.
“I agree 19 is excessive,” Fiala said.
Taylor said Evans would need to research to see if state statute covered helmet requirements.
The ordinance would require UTVs to display a flag at the rear of the vehicle that extends at least 2 feet above the cab.
Worrell said almost all UTV owners would be unable to comply with that portion of the ordinance as the only place where flag poles can be mounted is behind the cab, not in the rear of the UTV.
Schroedl said the document was a draft and could be revised after discussion by the council.
Fiala said he asked for the language regarding the display of flags be included.
“We can adjust that,” Fiala said. “As long as the flag is 2 feet above the highest point, I would be OK with that.”
Fiala asked Evans how she would enforce the ordinance once changes are finalized. She said she would either contact the UTV owner if a violation is observed or, if she does not know the owner, she would follow the UTV and have a conversation with the operator when the vehicle came to a stop.
She said traffic enforcement would be handled by the sheriff’s department.
Barthel said he hoped the adjustments to the draft could be made and ready for the council to approve during its December meeting.
Fiala thanked Evans for her work on updating the ordinance.
“Kelsie, you did a good job with this,” Fiala said.
The council tabled action on the ordinance until its December meeting.
Schroedl said there was nothing new to report on the city taking ownership of property located at 352 N. Wilson St. She said Sholes has drafted documents but had not been able to reach the property owner for agreement.
With Mayor Joel Klammer absent Wednesday, Barthel announced the city had received a grant to finish the basketball and pickleball court project at East City Park as well as to install a handicap-accessible chair lift for the swimming pool. The city will not have to use any general fund money to complete the improvement project at the park.
The next meeting of the Ainsworth City Council is scheduled for 5 p.m. Dec. 10.
* Ainsworth student wins Name a Snow Plow contest
(Posted 10:30 a.m. Nov. 12)
The Nebraska Department of Transportation District 8 will visit McAndrew Elementary School at 2:45 p.m. Friday to recognize one of 16 winners in NDOT’s 2025 Name-a-Snowplow competition.
NDOT selected “Clear-a-path-ra” from nearly 4,500 entries. Each winning name will be displayed on one of NDOT’s snowplows, which are part of a fleet of more than 600—each trackable in real time on Nebraska 511.
The school celebration will include a presentation by NDOT maintenance employees, recognition of the winning student or class, and an opportunity for students to tour the newly named snowplow and ask questions.
Now in its fifth year, NDOT’s Name-a-Snowplow competition teaches students (and future drivers) about winter road safety and the essential work of snowplow operators. The contest is open to K–6 students statewide, with two winners selected from each of NDOT’s eight geographical districts.
* Photos from Tuesday night’s Aurora Borealis
(Posted 7 a.m. Nov. 12)
The Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis, made a brilliant showing Tuesday night in north central Nebraska. Caused by a large geomagnetic event, the lights were clearly visible across much of the northern continental United States.
The geomagnetic storm was caused by an ejection of particles from the sun. The storm pushed particles deeper into the atmosphere than normal, making the Northern Lights visible farther south.
The particles collided with the Earth’s atmosphere, causing them to emit the green and red light known as Aurora Borealis.
Several photos were submitted to KBRB showing the brilliance of the green and red lights in the northern sky.
(Photo by Betty Bower)
(Photo by Dianah Schrad)
(Photo by Margo Larsen)
(Photo by Melissa Freudenberg)
(Photo by Nichole Flynn)
(Photo by Stephanie Kinzie)
(Photo by Shirley Hansen of O’Neill)
* Ainsworth City Council Wednesday meeting agenda
(Posted 7 a.m. Nov. 12)
Ainsworth City Council
Meeting 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12
Ainsworth Conference Center
Agenda
- Call to Order
- I. Routine Business
- Announcement of Open Meetings Act
- Roll Call
- Pledge of Allegiance
- II. Consent Agenda – All items approved with the passage of one motion
- Approve minutes from the October 8, 2025 regular meeting
- Approval of claims
- Treasurer’s report
- Department head reports
- Cemetery Certificate
- III. Mayor’s Appointments and Report
- Mayor’s Report
- Mayor’s Appointments
- IV. Public Hearings
- None
- V. Old Business
- Discuss and consider a proposal regarding ownership of the property at 352 N. Wilson
- VI. Regular Agenda
- Discuss and consider Ordinance #1565: UTV
- Consider a request for the administrative subdivisions of the following described real estate: An irregular tract of land located in the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 26, T30N, R22W of the 6th P.M., Brown County, Nebraska
- Tract A: 1.438 acres
- Tract B: 1.088 acres
- Discuss and consider the results of the NDOT traffic study
- Consider the recommendation by the LB840 Loan Committee:
- Approve application #25-06 Façade in the amount of $9,309.07
- Approve application #25-08 Façade in the amount of $5,316.91
- Deny application #25-09 Business Loan in the amount of $500,000
- Consider Resolution #25-09: Signing of the year-end certification of city street superintendent 2025
- Discuss and consider the Master Agreement for professional services with Olsson to include on-call services requested and street superintendent services for 2026
- City Administrator/Clerk/Treasurer Report
* Care Center Board discusses financial picture
(Posted 11:30 a.m. Nov. 11)
Sandhills Care Center Board members on Monday expressed concern over the facility being in the red for the second straight month despite a robust census.
“I am a little concerned we have 34 residents and we are still losing some money,” board member Dennis Bauer said.
Care center business manager Makenzie Crane said the facility had some one-time large expenses come due recently.
“We have the workman’s compensation premium on this month’s books,” Crane said. “We pay for the entire year so we don’t have the monthly service fees.”
The workman’s compensation premium was $34,436. Crane said the facility paid some agency staffing costs during the month that would be coming off the books in the future, including $3,540 for dietary agency staffing and a portion of $38,486 in agency nursing staff costs.
Crane said two more agency positions were eliminated in November, with the facility down to two RNs and one CNA from agencies. She said the facility also pays a $12,480 placement fee quarterly for the two international CNAs who are now working in the care center full time. She said, after that three-year contract is complete, those employees will become permanent residents or citizens.
Crane said the $7,000 cost for the facility’s annual audit was also among the one-time expenses, as was $4,095 for the annual directors and officers liability insurance premium.
Crane said there are five people signed up for an upcoming CNA class being offered by the care center.
The care center generated $340,897 in revenue during October with expenses of $354,693 for an operating loss during the month of $13,796. The care center did receive $19,574 in voter-approved property tax in addition to its operating revenue.
Crane reported, after bills are paid and revenue collected for the month, the care center has $187,744 in its operating account. There is an additional $309,753 in the facility’s interlocal account for future upgrades, generated by the voter-approved property tax levies being collected by both the city of Ainsworth and Brown County. Of that, $200,000 has been placed into certificates of deposit generating 4 percent interest.
During her report Monday, Administrator Penny Jacobs said there are currently 33 residents calling the Sandhills Care Center home with one additional bed on hold while a resident is treated in the hospital. She said the care center admitted two new residents during the past month.
Jacobs reported there are 12 residents paying privately, 17 receiving Medicaid assistance and four receiving Medicare assistance. She said the facility hired a full-time cook during the past month and was still in need of CNAs and an employee or two in the dietary department.
The board held a preliminary review of the annual audit report for the care center. Board member Dr. Mel Campbell said the audit report showed a lack of segregation of duties over financial controls. He said every smaller entity receives that adverse finding.
Board member Kent Taylor said the audit report showed the care center increased its assets by $300,000 during the past year, and that figure did not include the tax levy money the facility has received.
The board tabled action on the audit, requesting the auditor make a presentation on the full audit findings during the board’s December meeting.
Jacobs reported a rebuttal letter has been sent by the facility regarding an Equal Employment Opportunity complaint that was made against the care center. She said it may take up to a year for any findings to be released.
Board Chair Tom Jones reported the grant to the Nebraska Department of Transportation for a handicap-accessible van had been submitted on time. It will likely be January before the care center learns whether the application has been accepted and grant funding awarded.
Jacobs reported the disconnect replacement has been made for the care center’s electrical system. She reported Ainsworth Electric indicated a smaller electrical box also needs to be replaced at a cost of $1,044. The board approved having the box replaced.
Jacobs reported she sent five letters to architectural firms for proposals on infrastructure improvement recommendations. She said three firms have set up times to visit the facility at no charge to take a look at the facility and then provide proposals for the board to consider. The item will be discussed in more detail during the board’s December meeting after the firms have all visited the facility.
Taylor said one of the priorities should be upgrading the facility’s boiler, which he said was an antique.
The next meeting of the Sandhills Care Center Board of Directors is scheduled for 5 p.m. Dec. 8.
* Hafer discusses School Board meeting
(Posted 10 a.m. Nov. 11)
Ainsworth Community Schools Superintendent Dale Hafer appeared on KBRB’s Open Line program Tuesday to go over action taken by the Board of Education during its Monday meeting and data retreat.
Listen to the full report below.
* Brown County Sheriff’s Department weekly summary
(Posted 8:45 a.m. Nov. 10)
November 2
A traffic stop was made on a semi just west of Ainsworth. The driver received a citation for driving 10 mph over the posted speed limit.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a repair order for a broken windshield and a written warning for not having their driver’s license with them while driving.
The sheriff’s office was notified of a horse on the roadway south of Ainsworth on Highway 7. A deputy was able to get the horse off the roadway and into a nearby pasture.
The sheriff’s office was asked to perform a welfare check on an individual in Ainsworth. During the welfare check, a deputy discovered the individual had passed away.
November 3
The sheriff and a deputy interviewed an individual and collected evidence from an incident that occurred behind the Silver Circle on Halloween. The individual received a citation on charges of criminal mischief and third-degree assault.
A deputy investigated possible trespassing at a business in Ainsworth. After completing the investigation, the individual who was found to be trespassing received a citation.
November 4
The sheriff was notified of trespassing at a rural Brown County property. This is an ongoing investigation.
A deputy investigated a two-vehicle accident in Ainsworth.
The Raven, Calamus, Ainsworth and Johnstown volunteer fire departments provided mutual aid for a fire in southern Cherry County.
Deputies attended a two-state meeting in Valentine.
November 5
The sheriff provided security during county court in Ainsworth.
Deputies responded to a bank alarm going off in Ainsworth. It was reported that the alarm was accidentally bumped into, and everything was reported to be ok.
A deputy responded to a rural Brown County property after reports of trespassing. The deputy walked around the property and other buildings and was unable to find anyone on the property.
A deputy responded to a report of suspicious activity at a rural Brown County property. The deputy drove the property and was unable to locate anything out of the ordinary.
The sheriff’s office received a request to have an employee go over to a house in Ainsworth to turn off their coffee pot since they were going to be out of town for an extended period of time.
November 6
A deputy is investigating a report of false impersonation and theft of money.
The sheriff attended an annual meeting with Bright Horizons in Ainsworth.
Deputies provided traffic control for cattle crossing Highway 20 near Johnstown.
Deputies and the head dispatcher assisted Ainsworth Community Schools with a lockdown drill.
A traffic stop was made south of Ainsworth on Highway 7. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 183. The driver received a citation for driving 20 mph over the posted speed limit.
A traffic stop was made in Long Pine. The driver received a repair order for no registration.
A traffic stop was made on Highway 20 west of Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for speed.
A traffic stop was made in Johnstown. The driver received a repair order for a headlight not working.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
November 7
The sheriff and a deputy looked for a reported semi hauling unsecured bales of hay on Highway 20.
After completing the investigation of an incident that occurred behind the Silver Circle Bar in Ainsworth, four more individuals received citations. One citation was issued to an individual on charges of terroristic threats and mutual consent fighting. Two citations were issued for assault by threatening and menacing manner and one citation was issued on a charge of disturbing the peace.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for driving on the shoulder of the highway.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a written warning for speeding.
A traffic stop was made in Ainsworth. The driver received a written warning for plates not clear and visible.
November 8
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received a citation for driving 20 mph over the posted speed limit.
A traffic stop was made west of Ainsworth on Highway 20. The driver received citations for driving 24 mph over the posted speed limit and careless driving.
The sheriff’s Office was requested to perform a welfare check in rural Brown County. This is an ongoing investigation.
Weekly Log
Phone calls – 995
Calls for service – 18
911 calls – 6
Vehicle titles inspected – 9
Firearms permits purchased – 3
* Class D2-7 All-District football players named
(Posted 11:15 a.m. Nov. 7)
The Class D2-7 All-District football teams have been selected by the district’s coaches. District champion O’Neill St. Mary’s landed the most all-district players with seven.
Ainsworth had three make the all-district team and three earn honorable mention recognition.
Two North Central Knights were selected, with two more earning honorable mention.
All-District players are:
Ainsworth
Witten Painter- Senior
Chris Fernandez- Senior
Jacob Ortner- Sophomore
Honorable Mention
Easton McMillin- Sophomore
John Lewis- Sophomore
Zaine Evans- Sophomore
North Central
Keian Fischer- Junior
Landon Stephen-Sophomore
Honorable Mention
Riar Lezotte- Sophomore
Brandt Lezotte- Junior
St. Mary’s
Gage Hedstrom- Sr.
Ben Barlow- Jr.
Dalton Herley- Jr.
Eli Banks- Jr.
Lane Bybee- Sr.
Drake Berg- Jr.
Carter Cole- Jr.
Honorable Mention
Ben Pongratz- Jr.
James Eby- Jr.
Keigan Couch- So.
Neligh-Oakdale
Cooper Arehart – So.
Breckin Kight – Jr.
Andrew Henery – Sr.
Grayson Kight – Sr.
Jase Schmoldt – Jr.
Honorable Mention
Trevan Torres – Fr.
Tyler Furstenau – So.
Corbin Hoefer – Sr.
Creighton
Ethan Kuhl- Senior
Ethan Kuhlman- Junior
Owen Doerr-Senior
Calvin Wilmes-Senior
Honorable Mention
Braxton Eggerling- Junior
Haiden Horstmann-Freshman
EPPJ
Jarek Erickson – Senior
Grady Drueke – Senior
Trey Rittscher – Senior
Landyn Veik – Senior
Max Henn – Sophomore
Evin Pelster – Sophomore
Honorable Mention
Karson Kallhoff – Senior
Justice Blecher – Junior
Jayvin Erickson – Freshman
* Be prepared for winter travel season
(Posted 6:30 a.m. Nov. 7)
Nebraska officials are encouraging residents to take proactive steps now to get ready for the winter season. From severe snowstorms to extreme cold, winter in Nebraska can be unpredictable and dangerous— but early preparation can help keep families and communities safe.
“The ferocity of a winter storm can catch many of us off guard. That’s why it’s important to think about preparation now,” said Gov. Jim Pillen. “No matter if it’s in our homes, our businesses or our vehicles, we should have a plan in place and supplies at the ready that will ensure we are ready to manage the challenges of the season ahead.”
The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency urges Nebraskans to build or update emergency kits, stay weather-aware and check road conditions before traveling.
The Nebraska Department of Transportation’s Nebraska 511 map provides real-time traffic cameras, winter road conditions and snowplow tracker information across the state.
“The decisions we make before a storm can shape how we get through it,” said NEMA Assistant Director Erv Portis. “Whether it’s charging your phone, packing extra gear in your car, or simply delaying a trip, small steps can make a big difference in your safety.”
Every vehicle should be equipped with a winter emergency kit. At minimum, include the following items:
*Warm blankets or sleeping bags
*Extra dry clothing (hats, gloves, socks)
*Ice scraper and snow shovel
*Jumper cables
*First aid kit
*Flashlight with extra batteries
*Cell phone charger or power bank
Winter kits should be tailored to each family member’s needs, especially for children, older adults, or individuals with medical conditions.
* Commissioners to sell Long Pine lot by sealed bid
(Posted 3 p.m. Nov. 4)
The Brown County Commissioners on Tuesday approved accepting sealed bids for a Main Street lot in Long Pine the county previously acquired.
Board Chairman Dennis Bauer said the roads department did an excellent job clearing the dilapidated building on the lot.
“I think we are in agreement to start proceedings to get (the sale) done,” Bauer said.
Highway Superintendent Kenny Turpin said it cost the roads department $5,000 or less to complete the demolition work and remove the debris from the site.
County Attorney Andy Taylor said the board could opt to accept sealed bids for the lot or have the sheriff conduct an in-person auction. The board agreed accepting sealed bids was the preferred method.
“Sealed bids are simple,” Commissioner Jeremiah Dailey said.
Taylor asked if the board had a value in mind it would be willing to accept for the property.
Assessor Peg Gross said the two lots total 100-feet by 53-feet and were currently valued at $6,675. She said lots typically sell for between $2,000 and $15,000 depending on the location and level of interest.
Commissioner Don Painter agreed the county needed to start the process of advertising for sealed bids.
The board voted to advertise for sealed bids for the property, with bids due by Dec. 12 and opened during the board’s Dec. 16 meeting.
In other business Tuesday, the commissioners approved a license renewal application for the Brown County Hospital and to have Bauer sign the application as the board’s chair.
Hospital Administrator Mirya Hallock said the hospital recently purchased a new CT scanner at a cost of $1.5 million, replacing the older 20-slice scanner with a new machine that is a 500-slice CT. She said the upgrade would be a long-term benefit to the facility and would allow cardiovascular scans to be conducted in-house.
Bauer applauded the hospital for the purchase.
“We need to keep updated on equipment or we will fall behind,” Bauer said.
Hallock said the hospital’s provider schedules are consistently full and the hospital is searching for an additional physician.
“We are still recruiting another physician,” Hallock said. “We are trying to find the right fit.”
She said Dr. Bohlen is now providing orthopedic specialty services to the Brown County Hospital and already has two surgical procedures scheduled that can be performed in the hospital without the patient having to travel.
“He has a great reputation in Nebraska,” Hallock said of Dr. Bohlen.
She said the hospital was still trying to hire a permanent pharmacist but has a pharmacist contracted into early 2026.
“The pharmacy location is still up in the air,” Hallock said. “We are working on the highway location and on hiring a permanent pharmacist.”
Dailey asked if the pharmacy construction project was moving forward or if it has stalled.
Hallock said the project is somewhat stalled until the hospital can find a permanent pharmacist, but the hospital was starting to run out of office space. She said some staff have moved to the specialty clinic building to open up space, but if another physician is hired, more office relocation would be needed.
In another hospital-related item, the board approved the appointment of Ann Fiala to complete the remainder of Board of Trustees member Brent Deibler’s term. That term expires in December 2026.
Bauer said the commissioners may have to have a resolution created to officially appoint Fiala but it would be a formality.
In roads items, the board approved a year-end certification to the Nebraska Department of Transportation that the county has employed a highway superintendent for 2025.
Turpin said the county receives a $9,000 incentive payment from the state for employing a Class A highway superintendent. He said the county would only receive half of that incentive payment if Turpin carried a Class B license instead of his Class A license.
During his report, Turpin said the warmer weather has given the roads department additional time to blade roads.
Bauer said he had two people talk to him about gravel piles on county roads in the Johnstown area.
Turpin said he drove several roads in that area, and some of them were in the best shape he had ever seen them.
Sheriff Brent Deibler said the material has to get pulled up onto the roads to save the roads.
“There wouldn’t be a road if they didn’t do that,” the sheriff said. “If we see any problems when we are out, we drop a pin to Kenny.”
Bauer said local traffic needs to be aware there is heavy truck traffic on the county roads during the harvest season.
“Locals need to slow down when they meet semis and yield to them this time of year,” Bauer said. “There are a lot of trucks on the roads right now.”
Turpin said the roads department performed culvert repair work on Road 876 and was working on a drainage project on South Pine Avenue.
Treasurer Bruce Mitchell reported he would issue two distress warrants for unpaid personal property tax, one for $25.64 and the other for $4.14.
“There was less than $30 in uncollected personal property tax this year,” Mitchell said.
The commissioners briefly discussed salaries for elected officials for the 2027-30 term. Bauer urged the board to look through comparables from other counties and the commissioners would consider setting the salaries for elected officials during the board’s Dec. 2 meeting.
Taylor said the board had to set the salaries for elected county officials for the 2027-30 term by Jan. 15, 2026.
Deibler asked the commissioners to consider the full duties of the offices when making comparisons with other counties.
Clerk Travee Hobbs reported after attending a recent meeting of the Nebraska Intergovernmental Risk Management Association that the county would receive a $6,800 dividend check from NIRMA.
The next meeting of the Brown County Commissioners is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. Nov. 18.
Mon-Sat – 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Sunday – 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
