Good morning, Lincoln.

University President Jeffrey Gold said the $1.1 million exit package for departing Chancellor Rodney Bennett covers unused salary, vacation, health benefits + six months of separation pay; Bennett resigned Monday and will leave Jan.

12 as interim chancellor Kathy Ankerson readies the search for a permanent leader.

Lincoln Transportation and Utilities Department announced that StarTran will launch a new phone service for paratransit scheduling and cancellations in mid to late January.

The service will let riders schedule, cancel, and check ride status quickly (aiding record paratransit ridership).

University of Nebraska President Jeffrey Gold explained details of a $1.1 million severance payout for departing Chancellor Rodney Bennett — a response to criticism of the package.

Nebraska U.S. Senator Deb Fischer announced Tuesday that she nominated 40 students for appointments to U.S. service academies for the Class of 2030 (including nominees from Valentine, McCook and Lincoln) with final acceptance pending individual academy decisions.

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird proclaimed National Blood Donor Month on Wednesday at the Nebraska Community Blood Bank, urging residents to donate as local hospitals hold about four days’ supply of blood and type O at two days—organizers say 1,000 donors are needed each week to reach a seven-day supply.

Bergen Reilly, Huskers setter, is a finalist for the Honda Sport Award having led Nebraska to a 33-1 record and Big Ten season; the award will be presented Monday, July 27 at 6 p.m. on CBS Sports Network (her season averaged over 10 assists per set).

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.

The Hafnicks Live Performance

9 PM — Zoo Bar — $10.00 — Experience the dynamic Blues/Rock cover band, The Hafnicks, bringing infectious energy to Lincoln's live music scene.