Good morning, Grand Island.

Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska has kicked off the 2026 cookie season with Exploremores (a rocky road ice cream-inspired cookie) as online orders, which began Jan.

23, continue while in-person sales start Feb. 6 and local booths open Feb. 13 through Mar. 15.

Heartland United Way announced at least $30,000 in Rural Community Impact Grants for nonprofits in Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties, with applications opening Jan.

26 and ending Feb. 27; selected groups may receive up to $1,500 to boost healthy communities, youth opportunity, financial security, or community resiliency.

Grand Island Public Schools will host free Board 101 Workshops for community members to learn about school governance and volunteer opportunities.

Sessions will occur at Westridge Middle School on Jan. 28, Barr Middle School on Feb. 10, and Lincoln Elementary on Feb. 11.

On Jan. 22, a Summerwood Resort resident reported a mountain lion sighting captured on a trail camera near Sundance and Heron Point lakes in Merrick County; Nebraska Game and Parks and a Conservation Officer investigated the sighting and advised homeowners to keep pets indoors after dark.

Governor Jim Pillen declared a state of emergency due to dangerous sub-zero temperatures — the order takes effect today and will run until Feb.

27 — to help power providers secure reliable energy for the community.

Local leaders have been nominated to serve on the Grand Island Economic Development Corporation/Chamber of Commerce board, with Jack Henry as chairman + Paul McKinney as vice chairman.

The board, which also includes treasurer and executive roles, aims to drive economic growth throughout the region.

Residents at Dundee View apartments still face hot water problems, and management is working+ to investigate the issue while urging tenants to report further difficulties.

The Nebraska Kearney Lopers ended a 10-game losing streak to the Bronchos after beating Central Oklahoma 81-72 Thursday night at Buckle court.

Junior Anthony Swift recorded his fourth double double while Kendrick Gilbert led with 19 points, and the team will host Rogers State Saturday at 2 p.m.

Three Dog Night and Ambrosia Concert

7-9 p.m. — Heartland Events Center — Check ticket prices for a night of classic hits from two iconic bands.

Jhon Alex Castaño Concert

9 p.m. – 1 a.m. — 4th St. Banquet — Ticket pricing varies — Enjoy an evening of vibrant music with Jhon Alex Castaño and La Iguana.

Master Plan for Entrepreneurship: Dream, Plan, Do - Interactive Business Plan Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Central Community College - Grand Island — Registration required — Develop a comprehensive business plan using practical tools and templates in this interactive workshop.