Good morning, Grand Island.

The Grand Island Rural Fire Department honored Chuck Hoffman on June 13 for 50 years of service—he was inducted into the Nebraska Firefighters Hall of Fame in May and received a trophy and cake during a ceremony attended by his family and fellow firefighters.

The 81-year-old, who has served since 1987 as chief, assistant chief, and state fire marshal investigator, continues in the fire service while his decades of dedication are celebrated by the department.

In Grand Island, the American Red Cross distributed supply kits—containing cleaning tools like squeegees, mops and trash bags—to families affected by historic flooding that damaged belongings and caused sewer backups.

Volunteer Anela Serrao handed out around 50 kits Saturday, and the organization will distribute additional kits on Monday as shelters remain ready to help those in need.

Organizers say the Grand Island Fireworks Show needs more donations to meet its fundraising goal — the funds will cover event costs for the upcoming display.

In Nebraska, officials are urging residents to follow strict fireworks safety tips for this upcoming Independence Day (which include age rules, proper supervision and using legal products) to prevent injuries and fatalities.

In 2024, there were 11 deaths and nearly 14,700 injuries from fireworks misuse, with sparklers causing over 1,700 ER visits.

The sixth annual Grand Island Pride Festival was held Saturday at the First Presbyterian Church — it drew about 300 attendees from Grand Island and nearby smaller communities.

The event featured over 60 vendors, a program of five speakers who discussed queer history, and two drag performances — the organizers stressed the importance of a safe space for the queer community.

Nebraska Wesleyan University and Doane University announced their spring academic honors lists that recognized local high-performing students.

Doane named 274 Dean’s List students who earned at least a 3.70 GPA on 12 credits—Grand Island students such as Maci Miles, Marissa Miles and Jacob Nesvara were honored, while Nebraska Wesleyan recognized scholars with a minimum 3.75 GPA.

Nebraska Area 33 Al-Anon Reunion

All day — Quality Inn and Conference Center I-80 Grand Island — $20 fee for Al-Anon members, free for others — A weekend full of inspiration, workshops, and fellowship awaits.

Angie Kriz and the PolkaToons Concert

7-9 p.m. — Stuhr Museum — Free entry — Dance the night away to lively Czech polkas and waltzes performed by Angie Kriz and the PolkaToons.

Trailer Races

6-9 p.m. — Hall County Fair — Admission: ONE CANNED GOOD — Experience the thrill of destruction as trailers race in a night of fun and live music.