20 years ago in the Homer News

High temperatures over the weekend caused a swarm of spruce-bark beetles. Many said it was the worst infestation they had ever seen. “It was so thick they were in my hair, my clothes, everywhere,” said East End Road resident Wendy Erd. “There is no way you’re going to stop this.” The swarm happened after three days of 60-plus degree weather.

— From the issue of May 29, 1997

30 years ago in the Homer News

Two Paul Banks Elementary School teachers face an uncertain future after they got pink slips laying them off. Kelly Jones and Julie Clark, despite winning First Year Teacher Awards in 1986 for Jones and 1987 for Clark. They were part of 130 nontenured teachers told they might not be rehired next fall because of state and borough budget cuts.

— From the issue of May 28, 1987

50 years ago in the Homer News

A standing-room only audience enjoyed Homer Little Theatre’s production of “The Legend of Homer” that showed May 27 and 29. Spanning the history of Alaska from the Alaska purchase to the landing of Homer Pennock, the play ended with Homer in the space age. “A real crowd pleaser,” the Homer News called it. “The cast displayed a lot of talent and portrayed their parts well.” The 1964 earthquake even included sound effects and the shaking of the stage.

— From the issue of June 1, 1967