Good morning, Lincoln.

Lincoln officials announced winners of the 2025 Name That Snowplow contest, and community members will soon see eight plows with their chosen names in service come spring.

The contest drew 164 submissions over three years, and winners received LTU promotional materials including seeds for pollinators & bike lights.

Tuesday, the Nebraska International Port of the Plains Board said Hershey Rail Park is ready to begin commercial transloading after receiving key handling equipment, a move that may boost local trade.

Nebraska officials launched America’s 250th anniversary celebrations yesterday at the State Capitol — unveiling a new logo and announcing upcoming events such as a student contest, outdoor challenge, and plans for the largest American flag at Memorial Park on Memorial Day.

NEBRASKAland Days has announced the annual Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash which will be held on Saturday, Feb.

28 at the D&N Event Center. The event will celebrate Buffalo Bill’s legacy as part of local festivities.

The Nebraska Department of Education released its 2025-26 Teacher Vacancy Survey showing improved staffing as unfilled positions dropped and participation increased (355 of 434 districts responded).

Special education roles still need more candidates, and officials plan to cut vacancies by half by 2030.

The UNL AAUP condemned the $1.1 million severance package for Chancellor Rodney Bennett, who will resign on Jan.

12 following a no confidence vote in November and a regents' vote on Dec. 5 to cut academic programs. The group urged halting staff terminations and full financial transparency.

Blue River Early Learning Academy in Crete has reduced its hours and private-pay childcare spots due to funding delays and a staff shortage, leaving families scrambling for alternatives.

Head Start services remain unchanged (as noted by Blue Valley Community Action).

Spring turkey permits for the 2026 season go on sale Monday, Jan.

12 after 1 p.m. at Nebraska Game and Parks or online, with fees from $8.50 to $158. Residents get unlimited permits while nonresident permits are limited to 10,000 + hunters must use Telecheck to report one turkey per day.

Governor Jim Pillen kicked off Nebraska’s participation in the United States Semiquincentennial on Tuesday at 3 p.m. by unveiling the state’s logo and hosting speakers to outline upcoming events for celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

Great Plains Health welcomed its first baby of 2026 when Averi Rae Coman was born (before 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan.

2) to Taran and Katelyn Coman, marking a hopeful start for both the hospital and the family.

Transfer quarterback Kenny Minchey reportedly flipped his commitment from Nebraska to Kentucky, according to the NCAA Transfer Portal.

The move may influence local college football recruiting and spark discussion among fans.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that UNLV quarterback Anthony Colandrea committed to Nebraska from the transfer portal after throwing for 3,459 yards and 23 touchdowns and rushing for 649 yards and 10 touchdowns last season (his move follows another quarterback’s brief commitment reversal).

Acoustic Friday at Saro Cider

5:30-9 p.m. — SARO Cider — Free entry — Enjoy live acoustic music and great cider with friends in downtown Lincoln.

Weekday Silent Book Club

5:30-7 p.m. — The Mill Coffee & Bistro — Free entry — Engage in a peaceful reading session with fellow book lovers in a cozy cafe setting.

Friends of Christ Retreat

Friday 7 p.m. — Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House — Registration required — A weekend of spiritual renewal and reflection led by Bishop Robert Finn.

Banda V.S. Norteñas with DJ Mickey

9:00 PM – 2:00 AM — The Royal Grove — Entry from $7 — Enjoy a night of Latin music as Banda and Norteñas battle it out on the dance floor.

46th Annual Concrete Paving Workshop

7 AM – 12 PM — The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel — Registration fee applies — Explore innovative concrete paving practices with industry experts at Nebraska's premier workshop.

LDCCW Winter Symposium 2026

6 p.m. — Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House — Registration required — Engage in thoughtful discussions and fellowship centered on faith and community service.

Open Coffee Gathering at Crescent Moon

8-9:30 a.m. — Crescent Moon Coffee — Free entry — Network with local entrepreneurs over coffee and share stories, insights, and connections.