Good morning, Grand Island.

The Grand Island Police Department raised $15,000 this year to provide Christmas presents for deserving families through its Santa Cop program + a local effort to share holiday cheer.

Local businesses and residents support food pantries by donating to help feed neighbors today in Grand Island; their contributions keep food available for families in need.

The annual Community Christmas dinner will be held tomorrow at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, where 800 to 1,000 meals will be served at noon to honor a cherished church family member and celebrate the holiday with traditional fare, carolers, and gifts from Santa.

Bosselman Family Foundation has partnered with Hope Harbor to fund and assemble 100 ready-to-cook holiday meal baskets for families in Central Nebraska.

The new initiative aims to bring holiday cheer to local homes this season.

Grand Island sisters Eva and Jenna Heidelk earned their business administration degrees at UNK’s winter commencement.

Eva, a full-time worker and mother, plans a play café to foster community + Jenna will use her marketing skills to support local businesses.

During Christmas break, Nebraska Extension’s Heidi Darby urges parents to maintain a routine and try crafts like popsicle-stick trees, while 4-H kids will start summer fair projects.

Her tips give families a practical plan for balancing creativity and structure over the holidays — a guide for the season.

Buffalo County fire departments have issued a burn ban until measurable moisture returns to lower wildfire risk.

The ban covers Amherst, Elm Creek, Gibbon, Kearney, Miller, Pleasanton, Ravenna, and Shelton fire districts; residents with questions can call the Kearney Fire Department (308) 233-3226.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission introduced the free Outdoor Nebraska 250-Mile Challenge to mark America's 250th anniversary and boost outdoor well-being for residents.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, locals can track miles for walking, hiking, biking or kayaking and submit proof for a commemorative sticker and prize drawing.

Misty Schaecher, director of the Third City Community Clinic, worries the loss of ACA subsidies may flood the free clinic with patients unable to afford coverage (she warns that careful planning is needed to manage the surge).

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services proposes cuts to Medicaid’s age and disability waiver program that may limit 24/7 care for disabled residents and seniors—service providers urge the public to comment by Jan.

5.

Spud-tacular: Unearth the Potential of Potatoes

10 a.m. — Raising Nebraska — Check event page for pricing — Discover the world of potatoes through engaging activities and yummy treats.