Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of November.
Good morning, Grand Island.
🏘️ Community
A Tri-City Food Fight is underway to help community members in need—Hastings Museum, Stuhr Museum and The Kearney Archway host a friendly competition from now to Dec.
31.
The Grand Island Public Library is asking residents to give feedback on its programs and technology services as it reviews the progress of its 2022 strategic plan—comments will help guide improvements in offerings like the Makerspace and Crafter-noons.
The City of Grand Island is boosting efforts to help residents facing food insecurity this holiday season — it is partnering with local groups like Crossroads Mission Avenue, Heartland United Way, Hope Harbor, and The Salvation Army to support families waiting for SNAP benefits to fully resume.
🎓 Education
Dr. Matt Gotschall, president of Central Community College, was honored with the Impact Award from the Education Administration program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for advancing student success at the college.
A 2003 UNL graduate, he was recognized in October with his wife and five daughters—underscoring his leadership in making CCC Nebraska's top community college for credential attainment.
🏛️ Government
The Grand Island City Council voted unanimously on November 18 to approve a plan that provides $925,000 in TIF financing for a new apartment complex at 611 Carey Avenue for Younes Holdings employees, with construction set to begin late 2025 and finish by end of 2026.
The council also approved a zoning amendment for a 13 acre site for 36 single family lots, and an agreement to move the AT&T fiber line at Veterans Park was approved to support further development.
The City of Grand Island reminds pet owners that 2026 pet licenses will be available starting December 1 at local veterinary clinics, the Central Nebraska Humane Society and the Utility Customer Service Center—licenses cost $16 for spayed or neutered pets and $41 for others with a $10 late fee after January 31, and a current rabies vaccination is required.
The Grand Island Police Department pinned 10 chaplains on Wednesday who will offer 24/7 emotional support to officers, first responders, and staff in distress under a new faith-based program—nine serve as volunteers while one holds a paid position.
The program also extends support to the dispatch center, county attorney’s office, and jail staff during traumatic incidents.
Nebraska could face a child care crisis if state senators do not extend the federal subsidy set to expire in October 2026 — without the extension, families may pay up to 65% of their income for care and the state may lose nearly 7,000 jobs.
🎉 Grand Island Events
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Dashing for Donuts
8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Grand Island YMCA — Registration fee required — Participate in a delightful 1-mile dash and enjoy some sweet treats in Grand Island.
2025 NICCA Annual Meeting
12:30-6:30 p.m. — Bosselman Conference Center — Pre-registration required — Engage in insightful agricultural discussions and networking opportunities.
Los Pescadores Del Rio Conchos Concert
8 p.m. — Diamond Reception Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling regional music with the electrifying Los Pescadores Del Rio Conchos.
Cruz Control Christmas with UPSET & DJ Bliss
7-11 p.m. — Liederkranz — Free entry — Celebrate the holidays at an Ugly Sweater Party with live music from Cruz Control.
🏠 Grand Island Real Estate
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💼 Grand Island Job Board
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📣 Grand Island Announcements
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