Nebraska Stories
Earning His Stripes and More
S8 • E7 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.
