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13 Episodes 2017 - 2017
Episode 1
Thu, Jan 12, 2017
The DeWitty Settlement - DeWitty was the longest lasting, most successful black settlement in Nebraska. Located near the small town of Brownlee, DeWitty was established in 1906 and settled by former slaves and black Canadian immigrants. At a time when American cities were erupting in race riots, the black settlers of DeWitty and white residents of Brownlee peacefully coexisted and thrived together. meet descendants of both communities as they gather to commemorate their shared history. Cosmic Films - As a boy, Bill Heges worked at his small town's movie theater as a projectionist. Later in life, after the theater had closed, the longtime Lyons resident brought the space and began converting it into his own personal film studio. The sci-fi bluff has built sets for all kinds of futuristic scenes, a veritable cosmic playground in which to shoot a sci-fi TB series co-starting his cat. Pellet of Poison - This story explores the brief intertwining of two remarkable women the very first Native American doctor and daughter of a powerful Omaha chief, lay dying of cancer in her home on the Omaha Indian reservation. Picotte's family reached out to the famous Madame Curie for a possible cure. Curie responded by sending a special package from France to Picotte's home. Play Me I'm Yours - As part of an international experiment, Omaha artists decorate pianos, which are then rolled out around the city, resulting in impromptu street concerts with all types of music. We feature some of these performances some good, and some not so good and learn how this unique project brings a mix of music and art directly to the people.
Episode 2
Thu, Jan 19, 2017
Art of the Unexpected - We get a guided tour of the Flatwater Folk Art Museum in Brownsville from former Seldon Art Museum Director George Neubert. The Brownville museum is a marked departure from the fine art for which Sheldon is known. Instead, the Flatwater represents Neubert's lifelong obsession with folk art, featuring high-brow as well as some rather interesting low-brow works. Lincoln Bike Kitchen - All it takes is a little elbow grease to get a set of wheels from the Lincoln Bike Kitchen. The Kitchen is a place where you can build a bike or get your own bike fixed for free. providing you volunteers as well. In this story, we meet the core team keeping the gears running at this fledgling nonprofit. The Cooking Kuxhousens - Dick and Marlene Kuxhousen of Scottsbluff are two lovebirds whose recipe for a happy marriage includes plenty of time together in the kitchen cooking foods of their common heritage. In their own worlds, They're just two happy Germans from Russia. Swapping Stories on the Buffalo Commons - After two decades of swapping stories, the Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival in McCook is stronger than ever. We visit with one of this year's featured performers, State Poet Twyla Hansen and meet some of the local storytellers keeping the heritage of the Plains alive with tales that are at times informative, sometimes challenging but always entertaining.
Episode 3
Thu, Jan 26, 2017
The Point is Poetry - Fingers start snapping at the sound of wicket rhymes and impassioned performances featuring heart, humor and gut-wrenching personal stories. We see the four final teams competing in the largest poetry slam festival in the Midwest, Louder Than a Bomb - Great plans, with high school teams from Ogallala, Waverly, and Omaha Duschene, and Skutt fighting for the highest score. Only one team can take home the Pop-Tart Trophy but the points are not the point...the point is Poetry. The Saddle Maker - Lyle Henerson is a second-generation saddle maker. Together with his wife, Lynda, the Henderson's are turning the prosperous, long-time tradition into an international business. This cowboy is headin' up. The Sutton House - The only house in Nebraska designed and built by architect Frank Lloyd Wright is located in McCook. Meet current owners, Van and Janet Korell, while enjoying a tour of their fully restored historic home. And, hear the backstory on the contentious relationship between Wright and Elizabeth Sutton from her great-grandchildren Patty Cordell, Stephanie Hurst, and Harvey Sutton, III. 2000 Souls - A University of Nebraska-Omaha art student draws attention to the 2000 Nebraska victims of sex trafficking by creating a flock of ceramic birds. The unique display at Omaha's Eppley airfield is intended to raise awareness of the issue in Nebraska as well as funding for nonprofits that support victims of sex trafficking.
Episode 4
Thu, Feb 2, 2017
Rodeo Bullfighter - As the bucking bull successfully launches the rider from its back during the Plum Creek Rodeo, young Rody Moon Sarget quickly snares the attention of the 1600-pound beast. Before the cowboy lands, the athletic bullfighter rapidly steps across the arena expertly dodging the business end of an angry horn. Rowdy hopes to go professional, but it will wait until the college freshman finishes school. Nebraska Arts Awards - We meet some of the most talented kids in Nebraska as two Nebraska schools, one urban and one rural, receive awards for best arts initiatives. We feature excerpts of performances in the Capitol Rotunda and hear from participants about their achievements. Featured in this story are performances from young students from Hyannis Area School in Lincoln High School. Agate Fossil Beds national Monument may have just celebrated its 50th year as a national park, but its diverse history may make it among the most interesting parks in the nation. Located within the Oglala National Grasslands, Toadstool Geologic Park is named for its unusual toadstool shape formations. This arid sandstone badlands with it unworldly natural sculptures looks. It might be out of the way for many drivers, but it's the mystery that draws them to it. No Stonehenge, but Carhenge - - its American-made brother. Ride along with a group of horsewomen who appreciate the recreational trails that allow them to enjoy the beauty of western Nebraska.
Episode 5
Thu, Feb 9, 2017
In Midtown Omaha is a gathering place for local writers and artists to network and share ideas over a cup of locally-roaster coffee while discussing superheroes, battles and other topics. Legends Comics and Coffee is just your friendly, neighborhood comic book store dedicated to elevating the image of the comic book genre while also giving back to the local community. This unusual combination has earned the shop recognition on an international scale. A Day in the Life of Lauritzen Gardens - We go behind the scenes at Lauritzen Gardens to see a day in the life of this ever-expanding botanical center that has been two decades in the making. From rare botanical wonders to carefully curated conservation team protecting the most vulnerable plants on he Plains. Indi Voices - Hear Nebraska Presents Jocelyn - Emerging Singer-Songwriter Jocelyn plucks a few chords, and in a rich, mournful voice, laments a past love in this street-side performance in Omaha's Old Market. Greenhouse in the Snow - Russ Finch lives in Northwestern Nebraska in the town of Alliance. He designed and built a greenhouse that runs only a small fan circulating geothermal heat. Using energy costs of about one dollar per day, Russ produces hundreds of punts of citrus fruit each year to sell at local farmer's markets. A Legacy on Canvas - In honor of the state's 150th anniversary, native Nebraskan and award-winning artist, Todd Williams travels the state and paints images representing the stories and cultural histories of every county. Live beyond Hoops - For one senior basketball player, maturing didn't happen on the court and in the game...it happened off the court and helped provide a positive influence in a young person's life.
Episode 6
Thu, Feb 16, 2017
Sowbelly Canyon - A Pine Ridge paradise located near the town of Harris, Snowbell Canyon has experienced a number of natural disasters in he past decade including a major flood in 2015. Explore this little known treasure and meet the people who are working together to preserve this oasis for all to enjoy. Team Armstrong - As a thank you for her hometown's support, Alicia Armstrong wore and orange ribbon every game day. The former Nebraska Softball standout had a battle tested career, but she persevered through injuries to play shortstop for the Huskers all four years of her career. Alicia drew inspiration from her parents, Bill and Gina, who attended every game the Huskers played (more than 240 games). Their only goal was to be reassuring face in the crowd for their daughter. Doc Middleton - The Unwickedest Outlaw - He was a man of many names James M Riley, David C. Middleton, 'Texas' Jack Lyons, and 'Gold-Tooth' Charley among others. None however, gained such notoriety as Doc Middleton. As a notorious figure he was different from many of the folk heroes of the American West. Unlike Jesse James, Doc Holiday, Wyatt Erp and Billy he Kid, Doc didn't want gold, glory, justice or vengeance. He just wanted to survive. In many ways, Doc represents the death of the Old West and the dawn of a new, modern era. Extraordinary Vessels - We revisit a story on Jenni Brant, the former Executive Director of the Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for Arts in Nebraska City. In this profile, we take a look at both sides of this working artist's life - from her day job managing an artist-in-residency program that draws artists from all of the world to her nights and weekends creating colorful functional pottery.
Episode 7
Thu, Feb 23, 2017
Earning His Stripes - John Higgins is considered to be one of the top NCAA basketball officials in the country. He has officiated the Final Four multiple times. Higgins, who comes from an Omaha family rich in athletic tradition, is on the road five to six days a week during the season. He has learned how to spend his evenings with fans, coaches, and players who often disagree with him and his decisions. What's more difficult is handling his refereeing duties while still making time for his family and business he owns. It's not an easy task. As a referee, though, he has become of the most recognizable and requested officials in college basketball. O'Pie and Beers - Young Cather scholars share their passion for their favorite author over pints at a local Lincoln brewery. Mixing craft beer with the writings of Cather - we think Willa would not only approve, but she'd join them. Libraries of Stones - There are at least 3500 rural burial grounds across the state and less than half are registered on Nebraska's Cemetary Registry. From solitary plots along the Oregan Trail to quiet country cemeteries surrounded by cropland, learn how these places of rest are at risk and what efforts are being made to preserve them. The Cards You Are Dealt - A former gang member, Fredy Ricon has become a hard-working Nebraskan, married father of three, and part-time artist. Voted the 2014 Best Emerging Visual Artist at the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards, see Fredy's growing portfolio as he shares his hopes for the future. Hear Nebraska Presents Mesonjixx - Enjoy a special presentation by the non-profit organization Hear Nebraska, featuring the music of Mesonjixx performing their song titled 'Sunshine' at Chadron State park.
Episode 8
Thu, Mar 2, 2017
Wildcat Hills - In a state known for its flat land, the Wildcat Hills in western Nebraska provides a dramatic alternative. The landscape is a unique co-existence of prairie and mountain ecosystems, featuring beautiful rolling hills, rocky formations and habitats for unique plant and animal species. A local rangeland ecologist takes us on a walk in the wild lands of the Wildcat Hills. Folkloric Dance - Colorful costumes swirl to the rhythm of tradition Mary Ann Shockley reflects on her years of teaching the skills of Mexican baile to the children of the panhandle community. The Swift Fox - It's the size of a cat, but a a member of the dog family and Nebraska's most elusive wildlife. It's also on the endangered species list. Go in the field with UNL student researcher Lucia Corral to learn how scientists are trying to save an important member of the Great Plains ecosystem known as the swift fox. Brown Sheep Company - There are only a handful of active wool mills in the United States, but one of the best is located in the Panhandle. Peggy Jo Wells and her husband, Robert, are producing wool that's not only sought after by crafters but has also captured the eye of a New York designer. Spreading Hayseed - Songs for farmers and the people who love them - that's what Susan Werner signs about in her latest album co-funding by the LIED Center. She tours the state to share her musical homage to the best of rural life.
Episode 9
Thu, Mar 23, 2017
Hear Nebraska's Music Man - If you want to hear the latest original music created by the most exciting emerging musicians in Nebraska, you have something in common with Andy Norman. In 2010 as part of his master's project, he stared a nonprofit effort to bring together fans, artists and communities through music and music journalism called HEAR Nebraska. Six years later, the group is stronger than ever, producing concerts, events and videos about musicians all across the state. We hit the road with Andy and his team as they bring music to some of Nebraska's most unexpected places. DIY Huskercasts - Paul 'Jake' Jacobson is what you might call a self-starter. What began as a curiosity from your average Cornhusker fan about a classic Husker football game turned into an all-consuming hobby to restore and build his own Husker football broadcasts from old film reels and radio calls. In the process, this husker archeologist has become an unofficial expert to husker archives and built friendship with some former football greats...all while creating something new out of some games he things no one should forget. Everest Revisited - After years of preparation and three failed attempts, Lincoln climber Robert Kay became the first Nebraskan to summit Mount Everest. It fulfilled a lifelong dream and it almost killed him. Kay talks about the emotional moment of reaching the top of the world and how he nearly died on the way down. The Pie Man - For a man with deep memories of the depression and extreme drought of the 1930's, going without is nothing new. So at 98-years old, a Hastings man uses those memories as motivation to keep his apron on...baking pies and giving them away to anyone in need - family, friends, hospice workers, cancer patients, and other causes. The Science of Soil - A group of UNL students compete for bragging rights in diagnosing dirt..or the science of soil. In just under an hour, the students must analyze the content and quality of soil in a particular area. Our cameras capture these students as they get their hands dirty analyzing the unique soil and landscape near Pawnee Lake.
Episode 10
Thu, Mar 30, 2017
Walter Scott Profile - An intimate portrait of retired construction executive and active philanthropist, billionaire Walter Scott. We learn about his passions, his philanthropic efforts impacting the lives of countless Nebraskans and his most important life lessons. a Match Made in Ogallala - Every year fans across Nebraska pack the Devaney Center to cheer on he Husker Volleyball team. But, for the 2016 spring match, the Huskers reversed the roles and headed 4 hours west. For two days Ogallala was the home of 2015 defending National Champions. Through autograph sessions, youth clinics, community Q&A, and showcases of high-caliber talent, the Huskers connected with the Central Nebraska region, growing the love and passion of Husker Volleyball to a new level. Picturing Rodeo - See rodeo through the lens of photographer Mark Harris who spent the past eight years traveling Nebraska to capture the spirit and culture of he sport. From the showman to the spectator, Harris' remarkable images are stories in a snapshot. Schamackery's - When Zachary Schmahl left Nebraska for the bright lights of Broadway, he wanted to make it big on Broadway and he did, but it wasn't through theater. It was through cookies. Learn how this small-town kid became the self-proclaimed 'Cookie King of New York'. Fire Drones - A group of scientists are experimenting with drones to see if this developing technology can be used to combat wildfires and save lives. Follow along on their first 'real-world' scenario as they perform a prescribed burn at Homestead National Monument.
Episode 11
Thu, Apr 6, 2017
A filmmaker returns to his hometown of Grand Island and discovers rare footage of the town from the 20's, 30's, and 50's. He hosts a premiere at the Grand Theatre in Grand Island, revealing the newly restored footage featuring rare scenes of everyday life. Saving Sacred Seeds - With the blessing of tribal elders, Omaha tribe member Taylor Keen plants indigenous heirloom seeds with he hope that someday everyone in his tribe could be self-sustaining by planting their own corn, bean, squash, and sunflower crops from those sacred seeds. Sowbelly Bighorns - Take a trek into Pine Ridge Country with Todd Nordeen of Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to learn how wildlife experts are working to bolster the Bighorn sheep population in Sowbelly Canyon. Nebraska's Deadliest Storm - A Look Back at the Cluster of deadly Easter Tornados of 1913 that ripped through Omaha, Ralston, Yutan and Otoe, called Berlin at the time. The twisters were blamed for 168 deaths in Nebraska and Iowa with hundreds injured. The Omaha, Yutan and Berlin tornadoes today rank as the three deadliest in Nebraska history. Arts and Literature at the Castle - A trip to Joslyn Castle for the Nebraska Arts and Literature Festival where 150 years of the best of Nebraska Art and Literature is being celebrated. Featuring a variety of works from artist Grant Tyson Reynard to writings by author Willa Cather, audience members interact with the art, discuss literature and experience an immersive theatre production at the historic Joslyn Castle.
Episode 12
Thu, Apr 13, 2017
Shakespeare and The Wild West - You've heard of Shakespeare in Love? We follow Nebraska Shakespeare to Valentine, the heart of cowboy country, for a performance of Twelfth Night. The company has been around since 1987, creating year-round, high-quality Shakespeare productions. And then they head off to Omaha for an acting workshop with middle school students. Shifting Sands - Sarah Switzer Sortum and her brother, Adam Switzer, are hard at work making changes on their family's Burwell ranch to embrace new conservation methods and encourage eco-tourism. The Girl from Broken Bow - Katie Farritor discovers a surprising story behind a portrait of her ancestors taken by 19th-century sod house photographer Soloman Butcher. Fort Harsuff on the Sandhills Frontier - Fort Hartsuff sits along the North loop River on the edge of the Sandhills. The former U.S. Army post was active during the waning years of the Indian War from 1874 to 1881. Today, the restored historic site provides tourists a look into the daily life of 19th Century Calvary soldiers. Piano In Tow - Because of her passion for music and appreciation of how it has shaped her life, Nicole Narboni tows her nearly - 1000 pound grand piano across Nebraska to share her love of classical music with audiences in rural communities who often don't have the opportunity to attend live performances.
Episode 13
Thu, Apr 13, 2017
A Quilt of Honor - The story of Caroline Boston is explored through a quilt she inscribed with the names of 318 Union Veterans of the American Civil War - from former slaves to an American President. Fate would cause Caroline to make and unprecedented decision that caused her to live an extraordinary life for a woman of her time. The Healing Power of Husker nation - Hail Varsity Managing Editor Erin Sorenson recounts her difficult recovery after her car was stuck by a drunk driver. Husker fans reached out to the injured journalist on social media and letters. Sorenson even received a signed football from Cornhusker Football Coach Riley and his staff. Big-Time Radio in Clay Center - In the 1920s, a chicken incubator born in Clay Center started a radio station to mark his products. In just a few years, KMMJ turned into a regional tourist attraction and launching pad for performers. Sowing The Prairie - The prairie grasslands of the U.S. were the victims of the intense agricultural development and occurred after the Civil War. Today, experts say that nearly 99 percent of the original prairie has been plowed under. Volunteers at the Homestead Monument of America in Beatrice, Nebraska gather seed for their own plot of prairie and the Prairie Plains Resource Institute mixes hundreds of species for restoration projects. Through volunteer projects and education, efforts are underway to help prairie grasslands make a comeback. Planting A Sunken Garden - We take a look back at the beginnings of the Sunken Gardens in Lincoln and join a vast cadre of volunteers as the dig deep into the dirt to 'wake up the beds' and do the annual planting at this neighborhood botanical oasis.