Governor Mike Johanns and Secretary of State John Gale Plan to Celebrate Nebraska’s 136th Birthday

Lincoln, NE - Secretary of State John Gale has finalized plans for the celebration of Nebraska’s 136^th Birthday. Each year the Governor and the Secretary of State host a party to celebrate Nebraska’s history and birthday. Nebraska became the 37^th State of the Union on March 1, 1867.

The Secretary of States Office plans and coordinates the parties with schools across the State. Since fourth graders are studying Nebraska history, the parties help reinforce their studies in a fun and positive way, according to Secretary Gale. Some 3,000 fourth graders will attend the statewide parties.

Secretary Gale said "Nebraska has a rich and diverse history from the prairie Indian tribes, the buffalo herds, the French traders, the Pony Express riders, the Oregon Trail wagons, to the homesteading pioneers. Our fourth graders are studying these facts. Governor Johanns and I like to reward the students for their hard work, but also help them celebrate our 136^th State Birthday."

This year, celebrations are planned for six locations across the state. Each location will feature local entertainment and birthday treats. Birthday celebrations will be held at the following locations:

Wednesday, February 26 in Scottsbluff at 1:15 PM.
Location: Western Community College Cougar Palace
Hosted by Secretary of State John Gale

Thursday, February 27 in North Platte at 9:15 AM
Location: Mid Plains Community College - McDonald Belton Campus
Hosted by Governor Mike Johanns and Secretary of State John Gale

Thursday, February 27 in Grand Island at 1:15 PM
Location: Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer Main Building
Hosted by Governor Mike Johanns and Secretary of State John Gale

Friday, February 27 in Omaha at 9:15 AM
Location: University of Nebraska Omaha - Milo Bail Student Center
Hosted by Governor Mike Johanns and Secretary of State John Gale

Friday, February 27 in Lincoln at 1:00 PM
Location: State Capitol Building Rotunda
Hosted by Governor Mike Johanns and Lt. Governor Dave Heineman

Friday, February 27 in Wayne at 1:15 PM
Location: Wayne State College - Ramsey Theater, Peterson Fine Arts Building
Hosted by Secretary of State John Gale

Statehood birthday parties are supported by the NEBRASKAland Foundation, and the Nebraska Humanities Council.
For more information about the Statehood birthday parties, please contact Sharon Hambek at 402-471-6044.

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