Good morning, Lincoln.

Car and cornhole enthusiasts gathered Friday at the April Sampson Cancer Center on Lincoln’s southern edge to raise money for local cancer patients and kids in need—an event organized by Cancer Partners, Urology Partners of Nebraska and the Lincoln Fire Fighters Association.

The group aimed to reach $60,000 while featuring classic cars and a cornhole tournament with support from Husker athletes.

As temperatures soar into the hundreds this weekend, Lincoln Children's Zoo has set up plans to keep animals cool using indoor AC, fans, and sprinklers (especially for the penguins) while also protecting staff with extra water and rest breaks.

Visitors will see some changes in the activities but the zoo will operate at its normal hours.

The Nebraska Supreme Court on Friday rejected Felipe Vazquez's appeal, upholding his 71 years to life sentence for killing Investigator Mario Herrera during an arrest warrant service in August 2020—ruling that his lawyer's decision not to object did not affect the trial outcome.

Lincoln's own Jadyn Cree returned home last Friday after her season on NBC’s the Voice and celebrated with a concert at Rococo Theatre—she performed 80's hits with band AM/FM and shared the stage with her father Bryan Olesen, who led the opening and Q&A session.

The University of Nebraska System board of regents approved a 5% tuition hike for the upcoming school year after receiving only a small increase in state funding, and the decision will force spending cuts amid rising costs.

The board also named Dr. Neal Schnoor as the new chancellor of UNK—his role will begin on July 1 after a 30-day vetting period.

The Nebraska State Patrol welcomed their new K9, Scooter, a 2-year-old yellow Labrador trained in electronics storage detection who will work with the Tech Crimes Unit and help teach kids about online safety.

Investigator Neal Trantham said Scooter is fully funded by Our Rescue and will support efforts in child exploitation cases by locating hidden devices.

Lincoln Transportation and Utilities said parts of Lincoln streets will close today for crane work on Westbound O Street between 10th and 11th from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.—further closures for water line and street improvements will start Monday and Tuesday with recommended detours provided. Motorists should plan for possible schedule changes due to weather and unforeseen delays.

Lincoln Saltdogs vs. Kane County Cougars

1:05 – 4:05 PM — Haymarket Park — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a thrilling baseball matchup in Lincoln.

Breakthrough Basketball Shooting & Ball Handling Camp

June 24-26 — Lincoln Sports Foundation — Registration required — Elevate your basketball skills with expert coaching and intensive drills in shooting and ball handling.

AMA Lincoln Coffee Happy Hour

9-10 a.m. — The Coffee House — Free entry — Start your day with a hot cup of inspiration and connect with local marketers.

Open Coffee Gathering at Crescent Moon

8-9:30 a.m. — Crescent Moon Coffee — Free entry — Share coffee and insights with the Lincoln startup community every Thursday morning.

Lincoln Men's & Senior City Amateur Golf Tournament

54-hole stroke play event — Fri, Jun 27 – Sun, Jun 29 — Holmes Lake Park Golf Course — U.S.G.A. handicap required for entry — Compete for local honors in a spirited golf tournament.

Teen Night at Northeast YMCA

10:30 p.m. — Northeast YMCA — Free entry — Enjoy a night of basketball, swimming, and games with friends and community resources.

YOUTH Child Watch at Cooper YMCA

June 30 – July 5 — Cooper YMCA — Reservations required — Child Watch service for ages 18 months to 10 years available for the week.

Open Coffee at Crescent Moon

8-9:30 a.m. — Crescent Moon Coffee — Free entry — Connect over coffee with local entrepreneurs and share insights in a casual setting.

Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration

8-10 p.m. — Ashland Football Field — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, parachute jumping, and fun for the whole family.

Pickle Party at The Royal Grove

8 PM – 2 AM — The Royal Grove — General Admission: $25, VIP Admission: $40 — Experience bold beats and deep bass at a night built for the dance floor.