Good morning, Grand Island.

The Salvation Army in Grand Island is asking for local volunteers to help with its Thanksgiving Dinner on November 27 at 818 W.

Third St.—the event will serve about 500 people from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and volunteers are needed for food prep the day before as well as serving, setting tables and cleaning up on the day.

Hundreds of families in Grand Island have struggled since the federal shutdown cut SNAP benefits and rising inflation raised food costs.

City officials now work with groups like Heartland United Way and The Salvation Army—Crossroads Mission has also launched retail rescue programs to help fill food boxes for local pantries.

Railside Christmas is hosting a live event to kick off the holiday season in the area.

Organizers say details on the shows will be released soon.

Mitchell Roush, director of communications for Grand Island Public Schools, was named 2026 Nebraska School Communicator of the Year (a statewide honor).

The Central Community College Board of Governors in Grand Island named Trevor Lee as the new member for District 3 after Sandra Borden left the seat.

Approved in October and sworn in in November — Lee, who is president of the Development Council for Buffalo County — brings years of community development experience to support the college’s workforce mission.

Grand Island Senior High senior Katelyn Sodomka is participating in the All-State Band for the fourth time, carrying on her family's legacy in music—she shows strong dedication to her craft.

Mitchell Roush, director of communications — for Grand Island Public Schools — was named Nebraska School Communicator of the Year by NebSPRA at a conference on November 18.

He led initiatives such as a campaign banning cell phones at the high school and hosted podcasts that highlight the work of educators and students.

Teresa Anderson, who has served as Health Director since 2003, announced her retirement effective June 1 – pending a replacement appointment – after a long career at the Central District Health Department.

Her work has grown the annual budget from $1.8 million to $9 million and strengthened community partnerships in Grand Island.

Construction crews have begun a $5.1 million renovation at Ryder Park baseball stadium to modernize the historic facility for high school and American Legion games.

City officials aim to complete groundwork before winter (with most upgrades finished by spring) while private funding is needed for the concession stand and restrooms.

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.