Sara Crook

The board discussed the appointment of a representative to the Nebraska State Historic Preservation Board, received committee reports on draft bylaws and membership categories, and engaged in legislative proposals for the upcoming session. Furthermore, the board reviewed the Heritage Heroes program, heard a grant and strategic update from the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation, and received a director's report covering financial overviews, ongoing hiring, exhibit planning, and legislative tracking. The session concluded with an update on the 2026 meeting schedule and other business including reflections on the Capitol Gift Shop.

The commission reviewed updates from key partners including the Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of the American Revolution, the Stuhr Museum regarding their 4th of July celebration, the Nebraska Arts Council's I-80 sculpture project, and the Nebraska Tourism Commission's marketing initiatives. Discussions focused on the America 250 time capsule project, the approval of a slate of 29 events for the official calendar, and updates from the Chairman regarding the Great American Fair, the commission website, the Flag Sojourn 250, the Freedom Truck placement, and the current cash fund report. Additionally, the commission received reports from the community relations, education, and fundraising committees.

This preservation plan for the Nebraska State Historic Preservation Office outlines a strategic framework for its activities and those of other preservationists across the state. Developed from extensive public survey feedback, it establishes four main goals: to Focus on Community, Emphasize Inclusive History, Maintain Our Heritage, and Maintain Preservation Infrastructure. The plan's vision is to foster the widespread embrace and implementation of inclusive preservation standards and initiatives throughout Nebraska, ultimately benefiting present and future communities by improving the future while preserving the past.

Key discussions during the meeting focused on the Time Capsule project, including content ideas such as a state poet contribution, the Governor's letter, and a summary of Nebraska history, with constraints noted on final submission format. An update on the America 250 National event indicated official dates for the Great American State Fair in 2026. The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) detailed plans for Liberty Tree dedications and a July 4th State Capitol event. A proposal for projection mapping on the State Capitol Building during the week of July 4th was initiated. Committee updates covered the formation of guidelines for the Community Relations subcommittee to ensure events are apolitical and reflect Nebraska heritage, progress on the website development, and the securing of 350 free STEM kits for rural schools. Additionally, the Commission was nominated as a finalist for the Nebraska Tourism Visionary Award, and updates were provided regarding vacant commission seats.

The meeting agenda included a Roll Call, Welcome and Remarks, consideration of the Notice to the Press from January 14, 2026, and a review of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act. A new Commission Member was introduced. Key discussions involved the Time Capsule, planning for the Great American Fair's DC July 4th Events, a Website Update, and establishing a process to accept events for the calendar and website. Updates were also scheduled from key partners, including the Nebraska Sons of the American Revolution and the Nebraska Arts Council. Committee reviews were scheduled for Community Relations and Social Media, Education, and Fundraising.