Good morning, Lincoln.

The Bright Side is a weekly feature that shares extraordinary local stories — highlighting neighbors who brighten Lincoln and build community spirit.

Eight Huskers earned Peace Corps Prep certificates during the 2025-26 school year — raising the program total to 33 recipients.

Their program blended classes, practical experience and professional development to prepare students for Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, further study or work after graduation.

Two children aged 3 and 4 were taken to a hospital Wednesday in critical condition after a possible THC gummy overdose, and local health officials said further details are pending.

On July 1, the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department detected Jamestown Canyon virus in mosquitoes in Lincoln; no human cases were reported, and residents were advised to use insect repellent & remove standing water to reduce bites.

Lincoln’s Health Department has issued an air quality advisory due to expected fireworks smoke today from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Thunderstorms tonight may clear the smoke, but lower winds tomorrow could allow poor air quality to persist for at-risk residents.

Director Troy Dannen announced that Nebraska extended Head Baseball Coach Will Bolt's contract through 2032 and signed assistant coaches until 2028 — the team posted 43 wins this season and marked three consecutive NCAA regionals.

The Lincoln Saltdogs ended a seven-game homestand with a 5-3 win over the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks on July 1 at Haymarket Park.

The team has an off-day Thursday and will travel to Gary on Friday for a three-game series.

The Lincoln Saltdogs will have pitchers Zac McCleve and catcher Jacob Morrow on the West Division reserve team in the upcoming All-Star Game at Haymarket Park on Wednesday, July 15. (Both are set for their first appearance.)

Lincoln's American Association Baseball Hall of Fame banquet will honor Saltdogs owner Jim Abel, former player Nate Samson and former MLB catcher Chris Coste on July 14 at Lincoln Station Great Hall.

The inductees are celebrated for their local baseball contributions.

Summer Music Series: Chris Sayre

2-4 p.m. — James Arthur Vineyards — Free admission — Enjoy live music by singer-songwriter Chris Sayre with wine ice cream available for purchase.

Summer Golf Clinic for Kids

4:30-5:30 p.m. — YMCA Youth Sports Administrative Office — $15 late fee after June 22 — Enhance your golf skills in this engaging clinic for grades K-8.

Carriker Chronicles Youth Football Camp 2026

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Lincoln Youth Football (LYF) League, Inc. — Registration fee required — Experience elite coaching from former NFL players and learn valuable football skills.

ZooFest 2026

5-11 p.m. — Zoo Bar — $35 daily or $60 weekend pass — Celebrate 53 years of The Zoo Bar with a vibrant outdoor music festival featuring an array of talented artists.

David von Kampen Choirs Performance

7-9 p.m. — Prairie Pines Nature Preserve — Free entry — Experience the enchanting jazz harmonies of award-winning composer David von Kampen and his choirs in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Youth Child Watch at Fallbrook YMCA

1-5 p.m. — Fallbrook YMCA — Registration not yet open — Reserve child watch slots for ages 12 months to 10 years at your convenience.

Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour

7 p.m. — Pinnacle Bank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Dude Perfect live in a fun-filled games tour.

Boondox Band at Friday Nights Live

6:30-8:30 p.m. — SouthPointe Pavilions — Free entry — Experience an evening of diverse live music under the summer skies.

Half Rox - July HYROX Event at BFT Lincoln

7 a.m. - 2 p.m. — BFT Lincoln — Limited spots available — Test your fitness in Nebraska's premier HYROX simulation with half the distance and all the energy.

Corrosion of Conformity Live

10 AM - 9 PM — Bourbon Theatre — Tickets available — Catch the reunion of Corrosion of Conformity with Pepper Keenan in Lincoln.