Community Calendar

As the Great Depression consumed businesses, the last railroad train rolled out of Ponca on April 19, 1933, with 22 cars, pulled by engine 282. The track was junked on May 18, 1933, in an attempt to recoup any money it could.

But this talk will focus on the life of this little railroad that opened a chapter in travel and commerce that would benefit people throughout Northeastern Nebraska for over 50 years. Join me for the amazing story of the Ponca railroad, and the connections it created!

Jam with us at the National Music Museum!

The National Music Museum is excited to announce the addition of Music Storytime to our events schedule! Beginning on Saturday, June 1, join us at 10:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month in the lobby of the National Music Museum in Vermillion for an enchanting journey through the world of music - tailored especially for children ages 3 to 6. In each interactive session, little ones will embark on a magical adventure filled with musical discovery, rhythmic tales, and toe-tapping tunes.

NMM's Music Storytime is a delightful fusion of storytelling and music, designed to captivate young hearts and minds. Through a carefully curated selection of stories and songs, children will not only be entertained but also encouraged to explore the power of music as a means of expression and creativity.

Led by Anna Van Kley, NMM's Museum Educator, each session promises a unique and engaging experience where children will develop a deeper appreciation for music, enhance their listening skills, and foster a love for storytelling. So, come join us as we embark on a harmonious journey where stories come to life through the magic of music!

Starting in September - Russ Gifford's Lifelong Learning Fall talks.

On Monday, Sept 16, explore the far too often discounted tale of the Mormon Handcart Exodus Across Iowa. While we hear of the terrible Winter in Omaha, and of the Mormon Trail as part of the Westward Expansion, the hardships and the determination that preceded those sagas are too often ignored. As important as the difficult Iowa passage is, the reason for it is often unspoken. Join me to hear the rest of the story and its importance in American history.

Next up: Native Cultures in North America:
Monday 9/23: The Olmec & the Mayans
Monday, 9/30: The Coming of the Aztecs
As I wrap up nearly a decade of detailed looks at the Native cultures that flourished before European contact, I will end with a look at the two major cultures of the continent, and what modern science has revealed in the past 50 years.

Monday October 7 is my recurring looking at literature that provides examples of their era. This time it is The American Original: The Private Detective. We are looking at one of the bestselling books series of all time featuring Mike Hammer. Mickey Spillane tapped into the tenor of the times with the hard hitting Mike Hammer. His anti commie crusades with spies hidden everywhere in America coincided with the start of the Cold War and carried on through the hot war in Korea. We will look at the man who dominated 9 of the 10 slots in the 1950s top ten bestseller list and whose lead character today is still remembered and revered!

October features my keynote series, The Turning Point at the Turn of the Century: The Spanish American War.
Part 1: The Dawn of the Progressives
Part 2: Embracing Empire: The Spanish American War
Part 3: The Rise of the Muckrakers: From War Correspondent to Wary Watchmen
This is the turning point in American History that is never mentioned. It was at this moment that America, the original anti-colonial force in the world found itself creating not states, but territories. What changes did this bring? How has it played out in the century since? What results, good and bad, have followed? This moment is truly the turning point at the turn of the century for America. Join me to discuss how it happened, and why!

My classes continue in November with the Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series. Can one person make a difference? Leaders do, and in this series, we see the tools they use to make that happen.

November 4, we will look at the example of Standing Bear, the Ponca chief that forced America to re-evaluate its policy toward Native Americans in a dramatic trial in Nebraska.
November 11 we will see Clara Barton Change the World by demanding change - and showing up on the battlefields to save lives.

Mid Week -- November 11, at 6:30 PM we Will continue to Rock Around the Clock with a look at the Beatles and the historic events of 1964!

Starting in September - Russ Gifford's Lifelong Learning Fall talks.

On Monday, Sept 16, explore the far too often discounted tale of the Mormon Handcart Exodus Across Iowa. While we hear of the terrible Winter in Omaha, and of the Mormon Trail as part of the Westward Expansion, the hardships and the determination that preceded those sagas are too often ignored. As important as the difficult Iowa passage is, the reason for it is often unspoken. Join me to hear the rest of the story and its importance in American history.

Next up: Native Cultures in North America:
Monday 9/23: The Olmec & the Mayans
Monday, 9/30: The Coming of the Aztecs
As I wrap up nearly a decade of detailed looks at the Native cultures that flourished before European contact, I will end with a look at the two major cultures of the continent, and what modern science has revealed in the past 50 years.

Monday October 7 is my recurring looking at literature that provides examples of their era. This time it is The American Original: The Private Detective. We are looking at one of the bestselling books series of all time featuring Mike Hammer. Mickey Spillane tapped into the tenor of the times with the hard hitting Mike Hammer. His anti commie crusades with spies hidden everywhere in America coincided with the start of the Cold War and carried on through the hot war in Korea. We will look at the man who dominated 9 of the 10 slots in the 1950s top ten bestseller list and whose lead character today is still remembered and revered!

October features my keynote series, The Turning Point at the Turn of the Century: The Spanish American War.
Part 1: The Dawn of the Progressives
Part 2: Embracing Empire: The Spanish American War
Part 3: The Rise of the Muckrakers: From War Correspondent to Wary Watchmen
This is the turning point in American History that is never mentioned. It was at this moment that America, the original anti-colonial force in the world found itself creating not states, but territories. What changes did this bring? How has it played out in the century since? What results, good and bad, have followed? This moment is truly the turning point at the turn of the century for America. Join me to discuss how it happened, and why!

My classes continue in November with the Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series. Can one person make a difference? Leaders do, and in this series, we see the tools they use to make that happen.

November 4, we will look at the example of Standing Bear, the Ponca chief that forced America to re-evaluate its policy toward Native Americans in a dramatic trial in Nebraska.
November 11 we will see Clara Barton Change the World by demanding change - and showing up on the battlefields to save lives.

Mid Week -- November 11, at 6:30 PM we Will continue to Rock Around the Clock with a look at the Beatles and the historic events of 1964!

Jam with us at the National Music Museum!

The National Music Museum is excited to announce the addition of Music Storytime to our events schedule! Beginning on Saturday, June 1, join us at 10:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month in the lobby of the National Music Museum in Vermillion for an enchanting journey through the world of music - tailored especially for children ages 3 to 6. In each interactive session, little ones will embark on a magical adventure filled with musical discovery, rhythmic tales, and toe-tapping tunes.

NMM's Music Storytime is a delightful fusion of storytelling and music, designed to captivate young hearts and minds. Through a carefully curated selection of stories and songs, children will not only be entertained but also encouraged to explore the power of music as a means of expression and creativity.

Led by Anna Van Kley, NMM's Museum Educator, each session promises a unique and engaging experience where children will develop a deeper appreciation for music, enhance their listening skills, and foster a love for storytelling. So, come join us as we embark on a harmonious journey where stories come to life through the magic of music!

Starting in September - Russ Gifford's Lifelong Learning Fall talks.

On Monday, Sept 16, explore the far too often discounted tale of the Mormon Handcart Exodus Across Iowa. While we hear of the terrible Winter in Omaha, and of the Mormon Trail as part of the Westward Expansion, the hardships and the determination that preceded those sagas are too often ignored. As important as the difficult Iowa passage is, the reason for it is often unspoken. Join me to hear the rest of the story and its importance in American history.

Next up: Native Cultures in North America:
Monday 9/23: The Olmec & the Mayans
Monday, 9/30: The Coming of the Aztecs
As I wrap up nearly a decade of detailed looks at the Native cultures that flourished before European contact, I will end with a look at the two major cultures of the continent, and what modern science has revealed in the past 50 years.

Monday October 7 is my recurring looking at literature that provides examples of their era. This time it is The American Original: The Private Detective. We are looking at one of the bestselling books series of all time featuring Mike Hammer. Mickey Spillane tapped into the tenor of the times with the hard hitting Mike Hammer. His anti commie crusades with spies hidden everywhere in America coincided with the start of the Cold War and carried on through the hot war in Korea. We will look at the man who dominated 9 of the 10 slots in the 1950s top ten bestseller list and whose lead character today is still remembered and revered!

October features my keynote series, The Turning Point at the Turn of the Century: The Spanish American War.
Part 1: The Dawn of the Progressives
Part 2: Embracing Empire: The Spanish American War
Part 3: The Rise of the Muckrakers: From War Correspondent to Wary Watchmen
This is the turning point in American History that is never mentioned. It was at this moment that America, the original anti-colonial force in the world found itself creating not states, but territories. What changes did this bring? How has it played out in the century since? What results, good and bad, have followed? This moment is truly the turning point at the turn of the century for America. Join me to discuss how it happened, and why!

My classes continue in November with the Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series. Can one person make a difference? Leaders do, and in this series, we see the tools they use to make that happen.

November 4, we will look at the example of Standing Bear, the Ponca chief that forced America to re-evaluate its policy toward Native Americans in a dramatic trial in Nebraska.
November 11 we will see Clara Barton Change the World by demanding change - and showing up on the battlefields to save lives.

Mid Week -- November 11, at 6:30 PM we Will continue to Rock Around the Clock with a look at the Beatles and the historic events of 1964!

Starting in September - Russ Gifford's Lifelong Learning Fall talks.

On Monday, Sept 16, explore the far too often discounted tale of the Mormon Handcart Exodus Across Iowa. While we hear of the terrible Winter in Omaha, and of the Mormon Trail as part of the Westward Expansion, the hardships and the determination that preceded those sagas are too often ignored. As important as the difficult Iowa passage is, the reason for it is often unspoken. Join me to hear the rest of the story and its importance in American history.

Next up: Native Cultures in North America:
Monday 9/23: The Olmec & the Mayans
Monday, 9/30: The Coming of the Aztecs
As I wrap up nearly a decade of detailed looks at the Native cultures that flourished before European contact, I will end with a look at the two major cultures of the continent, and what modern science has revealed in the past 50 years.

Monday October 7 is my recurring looking at literature that provides examples of their era. This time it is The American Original: The Private Detective. We are looking at one of the bestselling books series of all time featuring Mike Hammer. Mickey Spillane tapped into the tenor of the times with the hard hitting Mike Hammer. His anti commie crusades with spies hidden everywhere in America coincided with the start of the Cold War and carried on through the hot war in Korea. We will look at the man who dominated 9 of the 10 slots in the 1950s top ten bestseller list and whose lead character today is still remembered and revered!

October features my keynote series, The Turning Point at the Turn of the Century: The Spanish American War.
Part 1: The Dawn of the Progressives
Part 2: Embracing Empire: The Spanish American War
Part 3: The Rise of the Muckrakers: From War Correspondent to Wary Watchmen
This is the turning point in American History that is never mentioned. It was at this moment that America, the original anti-colonial force in the world found itself creating not states, but territories. What changes did this bring? How has it played out in the century since? What results, good and bad, have followed? This moment is truly the turning point at the turn of the century for America. Join me to discuss how it happened, and why!

My classes continue in November with the Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series. Can one person make a difference? Leaders do, and in this series, we see the tools they use to make that happen.

November 4, we will look at the example of Standing Bear, the Ponca chief that forced America to re-evaluate its policy toward Native Americans in a dramatic trial in Nebraska.
November 11 we will see Clara Barton Change the World by demanding change - and showing up on the battlefields to save lives.

Mid Week -- November 11, at 6:30 PM we Will continue to Rock Around the Clock with a look at the Beatles and the historic events of 1964!

Jam with us at the National Music Museum!

The National Music Museum is excited to announce the addition of Music Storytime to our events schedule! Beginning on Saturday, June 1, join us at 10:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month in the lobby of the National Music Museum in Vermillion for an enchanting journey through the world of music - tailored especially for children ages 3 to 6. In each interactive session, little ones will embark on a magical adventure filled with musical discovery, rhythmic tales, and toe-tapping tunes.

NMM's Music Storytime is a delightful fusion of storytelling and music, designed to captivate young hearts and minds. Through a carefully curated selection of stories and songs, children will not only be entertained but also encouraged to explore the power of music as a means of expression and creativity.

Led by Anna Van Kley, NMM's Museum Educator, each session promises a unique and engaging experience where children will develop a deeper appreciation for music, enhance their listening skills, and foster a love for storytelling. So, come join us as we embark on a harmonious journey where stories come to life through the magic of music!

Starting in September - Russ Gifford's Lifelong Learning Fall talks.

On Monday, Sept 16, explore the far too often discounted tale of the Mormon Handcart Exodus Across Iowa. While we hear of the terrible Winter in Omaha, and of the Mormon Trail as part of the Westward Expansion, the hardships and the determination that preceded those sagas are too often ignored. As important as the difficult Iowa passage is, the reason for it is often unspoken. Join me to hear the rest of the story and its importance in American history.

Next up: Native Cultures in North America:
Monday 9/23: The Olmec & the Mayans
Monday, 9/30: The Coming of the Aztecs
As I wrap up nearly a decade of detailed looks at the Native cultures that flourished before European contact, I will end with a look at the two major cultures of the continent, and what modern science has revealed in the past 50 years.

Monday October 7 is my recurring looking at literature that provides examples of their era. This time it is The American Original: The Private Detective. We are looking at one of the bestselling books series of all time featuring Mike Hammer. Mickey Spillane tapped into the tenor of the times with the hard hitting Mike Hammer. His anti commie crusades with spies hidden everywhere in America coincided with the start of the Cold War and carried on through the hot war in Korea. We will look at the man who dominated 9 of the 10 slots in the 1950s top ten bestseller list and whose lead character today is still remembered and revered!

October features my keynote series, The Turning Point at the Turn of the Century: The Spanish American War.
Part 1: The Dawn of the Progressives
Part 2: Embracing Empire: The Spanish American War
Part 3: The Rise of the Muckrakers: From War Correspondent to Wary Watchmen
This is the turning point in American History that is never mentioned. It was at this moment that America, the original anti-colonial force in the world found itself creating not states, but territories. What changes did this bring? How has it played out in the century since? What results, good and bad, have followed? This moment is truly the turning point at the turn of the century for America. Join me to discuss how it happened, and why!

My classes continue in November with the Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series. Can one person make a difference? Leaders do, and in this series, we see the tools they use to make that happen.

November 4, we will look at the example of Standing Bear, the Ponca chief that forced America to re-evaluate its policy toward Native Americans in a dramatic trial in Nebraska.
November 11 we will see Clara Barton Change the World by demanding change - and showing up on the battlefields to save lives.

Mid Week -- November 11, at 6:30 PM we Will continue to Rock Around the Clock with a look at the Beatles and the historic events of 1964!

Starting in September - Russ Gifford's Lifelong Learning Fall talks.

On Monday, Sept 16, explore the far too often discounted tale of the Mormon Handcart Exodus Across Iowa. While we hear of the terrible Winter in Omaha, and of the Mormon Trail as part of the Westward Expansion, the hardships and the determination that preceded those sagas are too often ignored. As important as the difficult Iowa passage is, the reason for it is often unspoken. Join me to hear the rest of the story and its importance in American history.

Next up: Native Cultures in North America:
Monday 9/23: The Olmec & the Mayans
Monday, 9/30: The Coming of the Aztecs
As I wrap up nearly a decade of detailed looks at the Native cultures that flourished before European contact, I will end with a look at the two major cultures of the continent, and what modern science has revealed in the past 50 years.

Monday October 7 is my recurring looking at literature that provides examples of their era. This time it is The American Original: The Private Detective. We are looking at one of the bestselling books series of all time featuring Mike Hammer. Mickey Spillane tapped into the tenor of the times with the hard hitting Mike Hammer. His anti commie crusades with spies hidden everywhere in America coincided with the start of the Cold War and carried on through the hot war in Korea. We will look at the man who dominated 9 of the 10 slots in the 1950s top ten bestseller list and whose lead character today is still remembered and revered!

October features my keynote series, The Turning Point at the Turn of the Century: The Spanish American War.
Part 1: The Dawn of the Progressives
Part 2: Embracing Empire: The Spanish American War
Part 3: The Rise of the Muckrakers: From War Correspondent to Wary Watchmen
This is the turning point in American History that is never mentioned. It was at this moment that America, the original anti-colonial force in the world found itself creating not states, but territories. What changes did this bring? How has it played out in the century since? What results, good and bad, have followed? This moment is truly the turning point at the turn of the century for America. Join me to discuss how it happened, and why!

My classes continue in November with the Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series. Can one person make a difference? Leaders do, and in this series, we see the tools they use to make that happen.

November 4, we will look at the example of Standing Bear, the Ponca chief that forced America to re-evaluate its policy toward Native Americans in a dramatic trial in Nebraska.
November 11 we will see Clara Barton Change the World by demanding change - and showing up on the battlefields to save lives.

Mid Week -- November 11, at 6:30 PM we Will continue to Rock Around the Clock with a look at the Beatles and the historic events of 1964!