Governor & First Lady Kick-Off Golden Anniversary
Celebration of Governor’s Residence

(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman and First Lady Sally Ganem kicked-off the 50th anniversary celebration of the Nebraska governor’s residence today by unveiling the newest addition to the home’s historic displays.

A pair of glass doors etched with the design of the Nebraska State Quarter will be installed in the office on the main floor of the home. Gov. Heineman selected the final design for the quarter and Ms. Ganem headed planning for last year’s launch. The etching was done by artist Angie Gildersleeve Peitz of Hartington.

“We’re pleased these doors will become part of the permanent collection of unique pieces featured in this house,” Gov. Heineman said. “The residence showcases the beauty of Nebraska, and Sally and I are honored to serve as stewards of this marvelous home.”

The residence will be open for tours each afternoon this week from 1 to 4 p.m., with displays including several inaugural ball gowns from the last five decades.

In addition, a series of lectures is planned for Monday through Thursday. Today, former First Lady Ruth Thone will share recollections from her time in the residence. Other presenters will take visitors through the renovation begun in 1997, the landscaping updates and exterior renovation done in 2001, and share stories of Nebraska’s history.

The anniversary culminates on Friday with bus tours of the historic sites of the capital city, departing from the residence at the top of the hour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., the Governor and First Lady will host a block party featuring activities for children and live entertainment, along with food and gifts from Nebraska vendors. All celebration events are free and open to the public.

Ganem said, “Dave and I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to call this beautiful house our home. We’re pleased to be able to share it with the people who come through the door each and every week.”

Plans are also underway to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the residence with the release of a new cookbook. Proceeds will be used to fund ongoing modernization at the residence. Orders can be placed this week, with the book expected to be ready for distribution early next year.

In addition to events 50th anniversary celebration, a virtual tour of the Governor’s Residence is now available online. The presentation includes stories told by former governors and their families. The virtual tour and a full schedule of 50th anniversary events are available online at http://www.governorsresidence.ne.gov.