Sun Oct 06 19:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Lincoln Electric System Crews Return Home After Hurricane Relief Efforts
**Lincoln, NE** – Lincoln Electric System (LES) crews have returned to Lincoln after assisting with power restoration efforts in Georgia following Hurricane Helene.
Twelve LES employees and six Grand Island Utilities employees traveled to Albany, Georgia, on Sept. 25th, where they helped restore power in both Albany and Washington, Georgia. The crew returned to Lincoln on Sunday afternoon.
LES is a member of the American Public Power Association, a mutual aid network that facilitated the assistance effort. The crew traveled with a fleet of vehicles and equipment, including bucket trucks, diggers, and trailers. LES is reimbursed for all costs associated with deploying crews and resources to assist other utilities.
**In other local news:**
* Wicked Bones, a UNL student band, is among the six bands competing in UNL’s Battle of the Bands, with the final two bands set to perform at Cornstock on Friday.
* Jacob’s Well is exploring the potential of transforming an old grocery store at 2001 J St. into a new community gathering space.
* The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has partnered with Runza to sponsor nearly 30 students who will cheer on the Huskers this fall.
* The state is facing unusually dry conditions, with four fires reported in Southeast Nebraska and residents in Gage County being advised to be prepared for potential evacuations.
* Let’s Pickle, a new restaurant and entertainment venue featuring six indoor pickleball courts, a bar, dining space, and a patio, is set to open soon.
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First Piper 