Collaboration: Nebraska Stories April 18th

Collaboration is when we are better together. For most of the segments, collaboration is a good thing. But for one of the stories, a women’s attempt to work with colleagues to stop a travesty is unsuccessful. During this edition of Nebraska Stories, we must celebrate the success of working as a team.

Musical Collaboration: Sea of Glass

At first glance, Philip Glass and Paul Barnes are a study in contrasts. The former is one of the most highly regarded and influential composers of the late 20th century, famous for his frequently understated and minimalistic music and personality. The latter has been described as a “ferociously virtuosic” pianist who is intensely expressive. Together, they’ve formed an unlikely friendship and creative collaboration born of a chance encounter and spanning more than 2 decades, culminating with the world premiere of Glass’s latest work featuring Barnes at the keys. We explore the music and the magic between these two world-class artists.

Little Collaboration for Victims of Peacekeeping

Note: because of the sensitivity and intensity of this subject, I do not recommend this segment for children.

While employed by a military contractor in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kathryn Bokovac discovered abuses by law enforcement personnel, international peacekeepers, private contractors and local police. These people frequented brothels staffed by underage girls, many of whom were being held via debt-bondage. Bolkovac, a former Lincoln police officer, became a whistleblower. In the process, she lost her job. Today, she speaks internationally as a human rights advocate and consultant.

Companionable Collaboration: Weekend on Horseback

Held annually at Nebraska National Forest, the 4-H Foundation Trail Ride is a popular social event that attracts riders from across Nebraska and other states.

As long as one has a reliable animal, riding a horse is definitely relaxing. One does not have much better scenery than the Nebraska Forest. This is a wonderful event!

Competitive Collaboration: A Championship Legacy

Through all the championship teams in the Nebraska Volleyball dynasty, no two players have been more decorated than Kenzie Maloney and Mikaela Foecke. Two national championships, two conference titles, and four final four appearances in 4 years brought the meaning of a championship legacy to new heights.

Although I am a Husker volleyball fan, I watch far more games on television than in person. So I am fairly certain that neither Maloney or Foecke are on the court. But volleyball is definitely a great picture of collaboration and teamwork. I wish these two fine players the best as they move on from Nebraska.