Good morning, Grand Island.

Carlos Barcenas did not seek reelection for his GIPS (Ward C) seat after the filing deadline passed, leaving the school board contest open for local candidates.

Voters now await the upcoming election.

Fifth-grader Collins Akerson from Buffalo Hills Elementary won first place at the county spelling bee on Tuesday, Feb.

17 in Amherst and will compete at the Regional Spelling Bee on March 14 at the Strauss Performing Arts Center (University of Nebraska Omaha).

Six Regions One Nebraska is partnering with Central Community College on the Central Childcare Champion project in Ord to use American Rescue Plan funds to help early childhood workers start in-home childcare services.

The initiative has reached (70% progress) toward licensing 300 providers by September.

The Grand Island Public Library has partnered with local first responder agencies to launch a new weekly storytime for families—featuring Saturday sessions at 9:30 a.m. starting Feb.

21, with themed readings and coloring activities that will run through April.

Students are returning to study at the Literacy Council of Grand Island (after Immigration and Customs Enforcement ended its enforcement surge in Minnesota), the director said.

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.

American Chili Cook Off

11 AM – 1 PM — Fonner Park — Tickets available at the door — Enjoy a day filled with delicious homemade chilis and support the American Red Cross.

Ian Munsick: The Eagle Flies Free Tour

7-9 p.m. — Heartland Events Center — Tickets available via Ticketmaster — Enjoy an evening of captivating music from rising star Ian Munsick in a community-friendly setting.