Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 26th of November.
Good morning, Grand Island.
🏘️ Community
Local organizations in Grand Island are offering free holiday programs to help families facing financial challenges after SNAP benefits were redistributed and a prolonged shutdown ended.
Grand Island Public Library offers free activities for kids — and nonprofits like Hope Harbor, the Salvation Army, Crossroads, and Heartland United Way will also host holiday events.
Heartland United Way launched its Christmas Cheer program to distribute 1,300 meal vouchers worth $25 to $50 for families in need in Hall County.
The program—its first edition—asks local donors to help expand its reach to other counties with additional funding.
🎭 Culture
The Nebraska State Fair received 14 awards from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions—seven first-place, five second-place and two third-place honors—recognizing its 2025 event.
🎓 Education
The Grand Island Public Library upgraded its NewsBank subscription and now offers free access to full-color digital editions of The Grand Island Independent beginning with the Jan.
11 edition—library cardholders can view local news online using the library’s digital platform. Anyone living or owning property in Hall County may apply for a free library card.
The Grand Island Fire Department said it received $11,355 in donations from local businesses and organizations to fund fire prevention materials for K–5 students during the 2024–2025 school year—helping it reach 4,700 students with lifesaving fire safety lessons.
🏈 Sports
Rienk Mast scored 31 points to lead Nebraska's men's basketball team to an 80-73 win over Winthrop on Tuesday at Pinnacle Bank Arena, keeping the Cornhuskers unbeaten at 7-0.
Britt Prince scored 30 points as Nebraska women’s basketball clinched a 91-82 win over Virginia—clinching the Emerald Coast Classic title and keeping the team 7-0—while they will host Bradley on Dec.
3 with pregame coverage at 6:30 p.m.
Nebraska special teams coordinator Mike Ekeler is one of 63 nominees for the 2025 Broyles Award after he turned the Cornhuskers' special teams into one of the nation's top units; a panel of former hall of fame coaches and broadcasters will narrow the field to 15 semifinalists, five finalists, and one winner—fans can cast votes until the live ceremony on February 12 in Hot Springs, Ark.
🎉 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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