Hundreds gathered at the State Capitol Rotunda on Saturday, March 11 to honor and celebrate young artists, families, and art educators. Over 140 pieces of art were on display at the Nebraska State Office Building during the month of March for Youth Art Month; each art educator was encouraged to send 2 pieces, K-12. Before viewing the work, a program was held at the capitol. Sally Ganem, First Lady of Nebraska and Sue Reiber, retired Museum of Nebraska Art Director of Educator were featured speakers. Phil Herrmann, NATA president and Gloria Nelson also spoke. Music was provided by the Omaha Public Schools Mini-singers Choir under the direction of Dawn Buller-Kirke.

Congressional Arts Caucus winners from each district were recognized. District 1 winner was Kathryn Smotherman, Yutan; HM - Sarah Brey, Raymond Central. District 2 winner was Dave Hill of Alpha School, Omaha. District 3 winner was Jessica Osterbuhr, Minden; HM - Sarah Staggs, Holdrege. Southwest Airlin es presented each winner with airline tickets to attend a reception in Washington, DC this summer. Bright Lights, Inc. of Lincoln provided funds for refreshments. Lorinda Rice and Bob Reeker, Lincoln were YAM Co-chairs.