Good morning, Grand Island.

The Grand Generation Center at 304 E.

Third St. will host a veterans honoring program on Nov. 10 starting at 11:30 a.m. The ceremony will include speeches by Mayor Roger Steele and other local dignitaries, a quilt presentation, and patriotic music by Black Tie Entertainment—set to begin at 11 a.m.—to honor local veterans.

Menards stores are serving as a Toy Drive drop site until Dec.

15 — the drive collects new, unwrapped presents for children in need. Menards also invites families to enjoy its Enchanted Forest display featuring decorated trees, colorful lights and festive décor.

The Hall County Veterans Service Office held a food drive on Nov.

4 in response to reduced SNAP benefits and a federal shutdown to support federal military employees and veterans. Don Shuda said nonperishable items and gift cards may be dropped off at his office just south of the Hall County Courthouse—county commissioners reported that National Guard members in Grand Island are also affected.

The Grand Island Public Library received a $10,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York to support its celebration of the USA's Declaration of Independence anniversary.

Library Director Celine Swan said the funding will boost services in the historic downtown building for community use.

Nebraska net farm income is expected to go up 42% to $8.42 billion this year as higher livestock receipts and government payments make up for a 5% drop in crop receipts, a report said (livestock receipts are forecast to rise 16%).

Fourteen Grand Island Senior High School students were selected by their music directors and the Nebraska Music Education Association to join the 2025 All-State Music Ensembles at the Lied Center in Lincoln from November 20th to 22nd—an honor that recognizes years of practice and dedication. The ensembles, which include concert band, mixed chorus, jazz band, and orchestra, will rehearse with nationally recognized conductors before performing in concert events.

Walnut Middle School teacher Blake Teichmeier won Big Idea Grand Island 2025 for his project greatcents.org—he impressed judges with his creative proposal.

Hall County Commissioners approved $1,030,396 in grants for 15 projects from the Grand Island/Hall County Convention and Visitors Bureau on November 4.

Director Brad Mellema said the funds will support both marketing efforts and building improvements—such as baseball field upgrades, a splash pad, and museum fiber connections—to attract more visitors.

Amid the 35-day government shutdown, SNAP benefits have been suspended, leaving over 150,000 families without food assistance.

Local organization Loaves and Fishes is stepping in to help affected households.

After years of planning and months of construction, the Grand Island Fire Department has moved to its new Fire Station #3.

Crews will begin demolishing the old building that served the community since 1987 today.