Head-banging teens and BMX bike enthusiasts crowded South Auburn Street during the Thursday Night Market to enjoy the weekly entertainment hosted by NEO, the youth sector of the Coalition for a Drug Free Nevada County.

Kids and a sprinkling of parents enjoyed music by This Is Radiation and 2 Hot 3 Fast, as well as stunts performed by a group of BMX riders.

NEO works to create and support more youth-friendly areas and drug-free activities in the county, getting its start during the summer of 2008 because there was nothing for the community's youth to do.

The Thursday Night Market concerts came about because the downtown association wanted to give the community's youth a place to hang out, said NEO coordinator Lynn Skukrud.

“This was something fun and positive they could do,” Skukrud said. “We've had two to three bands a week, and every night ends with a hip-hop dance performance. We also have DJs.”

NEO hosted a BMX stunt demonstration Thursday for the first time.

“We just started a BMX group we work with,” Skukrud said. “The BMX riders were telling us they were getting in trouble, no matter where they went, so we are looking to get a park somewhere in Grass Valley. They wanted to bring attention to that and share their cause with everyone.”

NEO has two clubs that meet during the school year, at Nevada Union High School and Lyman Gilmore School. The organization also hosts other events such as concerts and movie nights. For information, call (530) 273-1370 or go online at www.ncneo.com.

To contact Staff Writer Liz Kellar, e-mail lkellar@theunion.com or call (530) 477-4229.