2023 Event Photo Galleries

Flatwater Fracas

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15

The 2023 Flatwater Fracas showcased top high school wrestling talent from Nebraska, Kansas, Wyoming, and Colorado. Celebrating its 17th year, the tournament featured over 20 teams competing in both boys' and girls' divisions. Kearney High School's boys' team clinched the championship, defeating Grand Island 47–30 in the final. Kearney's path to victory included wins over Columbus, Lincoln Southeast, Garden City (KS), Blair, Smith Center (KS), Lincoln East, and Waverly. The event highlighted the depth and competitiveness of regional wrestling programs, providing athletes with exposure to diverse competition and contributing to their development for the remainder of the season.

Heartland Boxing Championship

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18

The 2023 Heartland Boxing Championship featured a dynamic lineup of professional boxing bouts organized by Double R Boxing. The event's highlight was Isaac Gleason's swift victory over Dillon Bercier via first-round TKO in just 48 seconds. Other notable matches included Oliver Rivera's second-round TKO against Alex Citrowske and B. Diaz-Campos's second-round TKO win over John Brewer. Additionally, Edel Gomez secured a unanimous decision over Zerek Zumwalt, while U. Avelino-Reyes triumphed over Justin Oregon in a six-round unanimous decision. The championship showcased the depth of regional boxing talent and underscored Grand Island's growing reputation as a hub for combat sports.

Imagination Bacon

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 11

The 2023 Imagination Bacon was a vibrant fundraiser supporting the Heartland United Way’s Imagination Library program, which provides free monthly books to children aged 0-5 in Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick Counties. Attendees enjoyed a lively evening featuring live and silent auctions, musical entertainment by Rascal Martinez, and a variety of bacon-themed dishes, craft beers, wines and spirits. Each ticket included a pork sandwich or brat with chips, tastings, and a souvenir glass. The event not only celebrated community spirit but also played a crucial role in promoting early childhood literacy across central Nebraska.

Red Power Round Up

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THURSDAY, JUNE 15 - SATURDAY, JUNE 17

The 2023 Red Power Roundup marked the 34th-annual gathering of International Harvester enthusiasts and the first time the event was hosted in Nebraska. Organized by the International Harvester Collectors Club Nebraska Chapter 12, the event celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Farmall tractor and featured over 1,000 exhibits, including vintage tractors from brands like International Harvester, McCormick-Deering, and Farmall, as well as Scouts, fire engines, Cub Cadets, and stationary engines. The family-friendly event also offered crafts and activities for women and children, along with vendors selling memorabilia, parts, and food. The event highlighted the enduring legacy of International Harvester and its impact on farming history.

Nebraska Fire School

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FRIDAY, MAY 19

The 86th-Annual Nebraska State Fire School was held May 19–21 at the Heartland Events Center, drawing firefighters and emergency personnel from across the state and region. Organized by the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association (NSVFA), the event featured 29 specialized classes covering firemanship, rescue, EMS, fire investigation, leadership, and officer training. The opening ceremony on May 19 included keynote speaker David Mellen, a seasoned firefighter and paramedic, who shared insights from his 23-year career. The event also included vendor exhibits and networking opportunities, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Nebraska’s fire service training and professional development.

RAIN - A Tribute to the Beatles

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TUESDAY, MAY 16

The Heartland Events Center hosted RAIN – A Tribute to the Beatles, an electrifying concert experience that transported audiences back to the golden eras of the Fab Four. The performance featured note-for-note renditions of Beatles classics, including songs from Abbey Road and the iconic rooftop concert, complemented by vibrant costumes and psychedelic visuals. This theatrical event captivated fans of all ages, celebrating the timeless music and enduring legacy of The Beatles.

Grand Island Senior High Graduation

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SUNDAY, MAY 14

Grand Island Senior High (GISH) celebrated the graduation of over 500 students at the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Nebraska. The ceremony commenced at 2:00 p.m., with doors opening an hour earlier to accommodate family and friends. To ensure accessibility, the event was live-streamed in both English and Spanish, allowing broader community participation. The graduation marked a significant milestone for the Class of 2023, honoring their achievements and the support of educators, families, and the community.

Fonner Park Car Show

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SATURDAY, MAY 6

The 2023 Fonner Park Car Show drew car enthusiasts from across the region for a vibrant celebration of classic, custom and muscle cars. Featuring hundreds of meticulously maintained vehicles, the event offered something for everyone—from vintage rides and hot rods to modern performance machines. Attendees enjoyed live music, vendor booths and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere that highlighted the strong automotive culture of central Nebraska. The show also served as a showcase for local talent and craftsmanship, with several awards handed out to standout entries.

CCC Graduation

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FRIDAY, MAY 6

The 2023 CCC Graduation brought together proud graduates, families, and faculty for a memorable celebration of academic achievement and perseverance. Students from a wide range of programs walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. The ceremony featured inspiring speeches from college leaders and student representatives, reflecting on personal growth, community impact and future goals. With cheers, applause and plenty of photo-worthy moments, the event honored both individual accomplishments and the collective spirit of the CCC community.

Shrine Circus

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MONDAY, APRIL 24

The 2023 Shrine Circus brought thrilling, family-friendly entertainment to audiences with its classic blend of acrobatics, clown acts, animal performances and high-flying stunts. Crowds of all ages were captivated by the colorful spectacle, featuring daring aerialists, skilled jugglers and the lighthearted antics of beloved circus clowns. The event upheld a cherished tradition, delivering awe and laughter while supporting the philanthropic work of the Shriners. From the roar of the crowd to the wide-eyed wonder of children, the circus created lasting memories for everyone who attended.

USA Wrestling

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SATURDAY, MARCH 18

USA Wrestling brought together top youth and amateur wrestlers from across the country for a weekend of intense competition and sportsmanship. Athletes showcased their strength, skill, and determination on the mats, drawing enthusiastic support from coaches, families and fans. With multiple age divisions and weight classes represented, the tournament served as a key stepping stone for future national and collegiate contenders. The high-energy atmosphere, coupled with expertly organized matches, highlighted the depth of talent and dedication within the wrestling community.

Tracy Lawrence & Clay Walker

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SATURDAY, MARCH 11

The Tracy Lawrence & Clay Walker concert delivered a night of unforgettable country music, with both artists performing a string of their biggest hits to a packed and enthusiastic crowd. Fans sang along to every word as the two country legends brought their signature sounds and stage presence to life, blending nostalgia with high-energy performances. The show featured heartfelt ballads, boot-stomping anthems and moments of camaraderie between the artists that highlighted their decades-long careers. It was a memorable evening that celebrated the roots of country music and left the audience wanting more.

Triple Crown Vendor & Iron Horse Motorcycle Show

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SATURDAY, MARCH 4

The Triple Crown Vendor Show & Iron Horse Motorcycle Show combined the best of shopping and motor culture into one dynamic event, drawing crowds eager to explore both unique merchandise and impressive bikes. Attendees browsed a wide array of vendor booths offering everything from handcrafted goods and boutique items to specialty foods and custom accessories. Meanwhile, the Iron Horse Motorcycle Show turned heads with its lineup of stunning motorcycles, showcasing everything from vintage classics to custom-built rides. The event buzzed with excitement, offering a fun, family-friendly experience that celebrated creativity, craftsmanship, and the open-road spirit.

Skills USA Middle School Conference

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1

The 2023 SkillsUSA Middle School Conference brought together young students from across the region to explore hands-on learning, career readiness, and leadership development in a fun, interactive environment. Participants engaged in a variety of skill-based competitions and workshops that introduced them to fields like robotics, construction, health sciences, and more. Guided by educators and industry professionals, students had the opportunity to showcase their talents, build confidence, and connect with peers who share similar interests. The event inspired the next generation of skilled professionals while highlighting the importance of technical education and teamwork.

Rodeo Grand Island

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

Rodeo Grand Island delivered an action-packed showcase of traditional rodeo thrills, drawing a lively crowd to cheer on top-tier cowboys and cowgirls competing in events like bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding, and roping. With heart-pounding competition and skilled horsemanship on full display, the rodeo celebrated the grit, athleticism, and heritage of the sport. The high-energy atmosphere was enhanced by crowd engagement, patriotic tributes, and entertaining rodeo clown performances, making it a memorable night for fans of all ages and a proud tribute to western culture.

Nebraska Cheer & Dance Championships

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

The Nebraska State Cheer & Dance Championships brought together the state’s most talented student-athletes for a high-energy display of spirit, precision, and athleticism. Teams from across Nebraska competed fiercely in a variety of divisions, showcasing intricate routines, synchronized choreography, and powerful stunts that wowed the judges and energized the crowd. The atmosphere was electric with school pride, as fans filled the stands to support their teams and celebrate months of dedication and hard work. The event highlighted not only the competitive excellence of these young performers but also the vibrant community spirit that defines high school cheer and dance.

Heartland Hoops Classic

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11

The 2023 Heartland Hoops Classic showcased elite high school basketball talent from across Nebraska and beyond, drawing passionate fans and scouts for a day packed with thrilling match-ups and standout performances. Teams competed in a series of hard-fought games, with players demonstrating skill, intensity, and sportsmanship on the court. The event featured top-ranked programs and emerging stars, creating an electric atmosphere fueled by school pride and love for the game. It was a celebration of high school basketball at its finest, leaving spectators energized and impressed by the next generation of hoops talent.

2Xtreme Monster Trucks

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 28

The 2Xtreme Monster Trucks event roared to life with jaw-dropping stunts, high-flying jumps, and thunderous engine power that had the crowd on the edge of their seats. Featuring fan-favorite trucks like Bounty Hunter and Scarlet Bandit, the show delivered non-stop excitement as drivers tackled obstacle courses, crushed cars, and wowed spectators with freestyle tricks. The family-friendly event also included interactive fan experiences and opportunities to meet the drivers, making it an unforgettable night of adrenaline-fueled entertainment for all ages.