The Statue on the Hill and More

“The Statue on the Hill"

Overlooking the former homeland of the Ponca people in the scenic Niobrara River Valley is a newly installed bronze statue of their great chief, Standing Bear. Alice Erickson, his great-great-great granddaughter, recently traveled to the site and as she studied artist Ben Victor's depiction of the Chief in a scene from his historic trial, she reflected on her ancestor's legacy. Today he is recognized as a civil rights hero, but to Alice the Chief is simply family, "He’s up on that hill overlooking our land and he’s with us always."

“Half-Way to St. Pat’s!"

The village of Greeley celebrates its founding heritage every year by throwing a big Irish party. The day long festival includes music, food, history, culture and a whole lot of fun. Held on the third Saturday in September, which is about half-way to St. Patrick’s Day, the popular event attracts national and international musicians and the town grows four times its size! “A Hopping Success" An innovative startup company that has successfully grown hops in Nebraska has partnered with the University of Nebraska and it's taking their business to a whole new level.

“Looking for Bliss”

Only remnants remain of a settlement called Bliss where African Americans tried to build a life on the edge of the Sandhills. “Big-Time Radio in Clay Center” During the 1920s in the town of Clay Center, a chicken incubator baron found a way to market his products by starting a radio station. KMMJ became a regional tourist attraction that launched the careers of several performers.

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