2020 Event Photo Galleries

HAIRBALL in Concert

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Hairball delivered an electrifying, full-throttle tribute to arena rock with explosive energy, larger-than-life costumes, and spot-on impersonations of music legends like KISS, Queen, Van Halen, and AC/DC. Flames shot up from the stage, lights pulsed with every guitar solo, and the crowd roared as frontmen transformed seamlessly between characters, each set feeling like its own headlining act. Fans were on their feet from the first riff to the final encore, singing along to every power ballad and headbanging through every anthem. From face paint to flying sparks, the show didn’t just celebrate rock and roll—it lived and breathed it, giving the audience a high-octane night they wouldn’t soon forget.

Heartland Groundhog Slam

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The Heartland Groundhog Slam brought together pickleball enthusiasts from across the region for a weekend of spirited competition and camaraderie. Players of varying skill levels competed in men's, women's, and mixed doubles matches, showcasing agility, strategy, and sportsmanship on the courts. The tournament featured round-robin play leading into elimination brackets, keeping the energy high and the matches intense. Spectators enjoyed fast-paced rallies and impressive shot-making as participants vied for medals and bragging rights. Beyond the competition, the event fostered a sense of community among players and fans alike, celebrating the growing popularity of pickleball in the heartland.

Heartland Hoops Classic

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The Heartland Hoops Classic delivered a thrilling showcase of Nebraska high school basketball, featuring standout performances and intense matchups. Grand Island Senior High edged out Grand Island Central Catholic 62–56, led by Jayden Byabato's 22 points and Them Koang's dominant inside play. In a marquee game, Millard North pushed nationally ranked IMG Academy to the limit, with Hunter Sallis scoring 23 points and Jasen Green adding 16 points and 10 rebounds, though IMG secured a narrow 61–57 victory. Kearney's Colin Murray set a tournament record with eight three-pointers in a 73–50 win over Elkhorn Mt. Michael. Auburn maintained its perfect season by defeating Ogallala 61–57, while BRLD overcame Hastings by the same score. Yutan showcased its prowess with a 67–46 triumph over Elm Creek, and Falls City Sacred Heart bested Fullerton 47–38. The event highlighted the depth of talent across the state, leaving fans eager for more high-caliber basketball action.

Heroes Conquest Wrestling Tournament

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Youth wrestlers from across the region poured into Heroes Conquest with fire in their eyes and medals on their minds. Competitors across multiple age divisions battled through intense brackets, showcasing grit, technique, and determination. Mat-side cheers erupted as local clubs like MWC Wrestling Academy and Nebraska Boyz brought home top finishes in several weight classes. Standout performances included a dominant run by a Lincoln-area middle schooler who secured three pins en route to a gold medal, and a thrilling overtime victory in the heavyweight finals that had fans on their feet. Coaches, families, and fans created a charged atmosphere that fueled every takedown, reversal, and hard-fought win.

Nebraska Cheer & Dance Championshp

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Pom-poms popped, stunts soared, and routines dazzled as schools from across Nebraska competed fiercely at the Nebraska Cheer & Dance Championship. Teams like Millard West and Papillion-La Vista South lit up the mat with precise choreography and infectious energy, earning top honors in their respective divisions. Grand Island Senior High electrified the crowd with a powerful cheer routine that placed them near the top of the leaderboard, while Lincoln Southwest wowed judges with a nearly flawless hip-hop performance. Supporters filled the arena with school pride, creating a high-octane environment that matched the intensity and talent showcased on the floor.

Nebraska State Fair

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Bright lights, sizzling fair food, and a reimagined layout brought a fresh twist to a time-honored tradition at the Nebraska State Fair. With a focus on safety and spacing, attendees still enjoyed live music, agricultural showcases, and carnival rides that delighted families and thrill-seekers alike. Local 4-H and FFA youth proudly exhibited livestock and projects, while vendors filled indoor and outdoor spaces with handcrafted goods and Nebraska-made products. Despite pandemic-era adjustments, the celebration managed to preserve its signature charm—proving that community spirit and creativity can keep a legacy alive, even in uncertain times.

PJ Masks

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Tiny heroes lit up the stage as Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko leapt into action during the PJ Masks Live show, bringing their animated adventures to life for a crowd filled with costumed kids and enthusiastic parents. With high-energy songs, vibrant sets, and interactive moments, young fans were swept into a mission to stop villains like Romeo and Luna Girl. Laughter echoed as families joined in the fun, dancing and cheering as their favorite nighttime superheroes saved the day. It was a colorful, music-filled escape into the world of bravery, friendship, and imagination.

Rodeo Grand Island

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Dust flew and adrenaline surged as Rodeo Grand Island brought fans to their feet with a full slate of rodeo action, from heart-pounding bull riding to high-stakes roping and barrel racing. Cowboys and cowgirls from across the region showcased grit, grace, and grit again in front of a lively crowd hungry for classic Western thrills. Announcers kept the energy high between events, while kids and families got in on the fun with interactive moments and vendor booths. It wasn’t just a competition—it was a celebration of rodeo culture, complete with boots, buckles, and big-time bravado.