While there have been lots of ice-bucket challenges passed around in the past few weeks, this is the biggest version seen in the Pine River Valley. Last week, two loads of cold water were poured on Derek Hillyer and Damen Lopez of Southwest Ag using Kubota equipment. The challenges have benefitted the ALS Association. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. It is also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. Since July 29, the association has welcomed more than 70,000 new donors to the cause, in large part due to the challenges. <br><br>The ALS Association accepts donations at its website, www.alsa.org, or at the ALS Association, Gift processing center, PO Box 6051, Albert Lea, MN 56007.