Good morning, Grand Island.

The 29th annual Easter Basket Extravaganza is underway in Grand Island and raises funds that stock the Community Food Pantry—supporting food programs for local residents.

A recent poll shows that the number of rural Nebraskans planning to leave the state has increased from 40% in 1998 to 57% in 2024 — a sign of growing challenges for these communities.

On April 10th, the Grand Island Casino Resort held a ribbon cutting to mark its opening as a $185 million project that created over 400 new jobs and brought new entertainment options to Grand Island; the facility features a 164-room hotel, dining venues and gaming areas with 750 slot machines and 20 table games (with plans to add more workers for the outdoor pool and spa this summer).

Grand Island police arrested Taryn Devault early Friday morning for his fourth DUI offense—officers found three open bottles of alcohol and signs of gross impairment in his vehicle.

Grand Island is hosting a SkillsUSA event this April where hundreds of students learn trade skills to help fill job shortages—more than 1,600 young people compete in hands-on contests that sometimes lead to internship offers.

School officials say the event marks a shift from a focus on four-year college plans to technical training—meeting the nation’s need for skilled workers.

The Nebraska Rural Poll—the longest-running survey of rural life—celebrates its 30th anniversary by gathering views from rural citizens on housing, jobs, and farm income.

The 2024 survey received 1,010 responses and will help state lawmakers and researchers understand current challenges and guide future policy.

State health officials say measles is approaching Nebraska as cases rise in nearby states—Nebraska’s 93.9% vaccination rate is below the 95% needed for herd immunity, so they urge residents to update their shots to slow the outbreak.

Men's Haircutting Techniques Workshop

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — SalonCentric — Registration required — Master classic haircutting and barbering techniques to elevate your skills and inspire your clients.

La Sonora Dinamita Concert

9 PM — Bamboo — Get your tickets (boletos) online — Enjoy a night of lively music with La Sonora Dinamita.

Running of the Wieners

1-2:30 p.m. — Stuhr Museum — $25 for public, $10 for members — Watch adorable dachshunds race in costumes and enjoy a fun-filled day at the museum.