Good morning, Grand Island.

Horizon Middle School announced the President’s Awards to honor 8th-grade students who earned a 3.5 GPA or higher in 6th, 7th, and the first semester of 8th grade and scored in the 85th percentile or above in math or reading on the fall MAP test — recognizing their academic success for the 2024-25 school year.

Governor Jim Pillen and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins met in Nebraska today to sign a waiver that removes soda and energy drinks from SNAP purchases.

The change will take effect on January 1, 2026—marking a new step in helping families access healthier food.

At a meeting in Grand Island, Hall County Commissioners remained evenly split on finishing the courthouse annex wall when three voted for a brick finish costing about 72,000 dollars while three opposed it and one abstained.

Officials also scheduled a meeting with judges today to set construction timing for the annex and approved a 43,040-dollar payment to repair fiber cable cut during demolition.

Nebraska native Diane Simard, who was diagnosed with Stage 3c breast cancer in 2015, has led efforts to support cancer patients' mental health by co-creating a University of Denver course taken by 300 graduate students and writing three books—her latest, Unlikely Gifts Unwrapped, was published May 6. She is traveling across the country to promote her work and raise awareness for the mental health challenges faced by cancer patients.

Young Professionals May Luncheon

12-1 p.m. — Olive Garden Italian Restaurant — Lunch cost not specified — Network and enjoy a delicious meal with fellow Young Professionals.

Hermanos Escobedo in Grand Island

9 PM – 1 AM — 4th St. Banquet — $50 general admission — Enjoy a lively night featuring Hermanos Escobedo and other amazing bands.