Good morning, Grand Island.

Starting November 24, Heartland United Way will randomly choose 24 silver bell winners from donors who give at least $312 to support opportunities for children and secure financial help for families in Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties — campaign chairs Kent and Tonja Brown launched this holiday initiative.

Multi-Platinum country star Scotty McCreery will perform at Heartland Events Center on January 31 at 7:30 p.m.—tickets start at $47 during fan club presale beginning September 23 with presale continuing on September 24 and general sale on September 26.

A record 739 University of Nebraska-Lincoln students were selected to join the University Honors Program this fall — a 15% increase from the previous record class in 2019.

The program requires academic excellence, strong leadership, and community involvement from each student.

Gibbon Public Schools superintendent Vern Fisher said on Thursday that an outside threat led the district to go into SECURE mode little after noon—everyone stayed in the building to stay safe.

He said staff, students and law enforcement worked together to contain the threat and later confirmed a person of interest was contacted with no arrests made.

Nebraska employers must follow the new paid sick leave law approved by voters, which takes effect Oct 1 and requires one hour of leave for every 30 hours worked + employers must post a notice detailing the law beginning Sept 15.

Some employers, such as those with 10 or fewer employees and certain worker groups, are exempt from this requirement.

Central Community College is hosting free naloxone events on Sept.

25 as part of Save a Life Day—students at its Grand Island leisure lounge and other campuses can access kits and training on opioid overdose prevention. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Nebraska defeated Houston Christian 59-7 in a nonconference game — the team showed a strong defense and efficient offense under Dylan Raiola, but it needs to convert more red-zone trips as it prepares to face Michigan.

Oktoberfest Celebration

4-10 p.m. — Liederkranz — Members $5, Non-Members $10 — Enjoy live music by The Killigans, food, and family fun at this festive event.

Platte Valley Boer-Nanza Goat Sale

11 AM – 11:59 PM — Fonner Park — Free entry — Experience the excitement of the annual Boer goat sale in Grand Island.

Colten Wyatt Band: Boot Barn Grand Opening

3-7 p.m. — Old Town Boot Barn — Free entry — Enjoy live music and vibes at the Boot Barn's Grand Opening celebration in Grand Island, Nebraska.

Jeff Smithart LIVE!

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Bandits Sports Bar — Free entry — Enjoy live music and festivities during the Nebraska vs Minnesota football game.