Gov. Heineman Visits Chimney Rock

Gov. Heineman Visits Chimney Rock

Gov. Dave Heineman, who last week announced Chimney Rock as his selection for the commemorative U.S. quarter to represent Nebraska, visited the Chimney Rock National Historic Site today to draw attention to the site's tourism and educational opportunities.

The Chimney Rock design was one of four finalists presented to the Governor last month. It features a pioneer family, a covered wagon and Chimney Rock, the clay and sandstone natural wonder that served as a landmark for westward expansion. The National Historic Site is a tourist destination and historical marker.

"Today is a special day for tourism in Nebraska - all of Nebraska," Gov. Heineman said. "When one part of our state sees an increase in visitors, our entire state benefits. It is also a time to remember our pioneering past, our heritage and the trails that helped settlers build our present."

The Governor received hundreds of calls, letters and e-mails regarding the four finalists for the quarter design. The overwhelming majority supported either Chimney Rock or Chief Standing Bear. Designs featuring the Capitol and Sower each received fewer than 50 letters of support, while Chimney Rock and Chief Standing Bear received more than 250 apiece. Calls to the Governor's Office also favored the top two choices.

"I chose Chimney Rock because I felt it best represented our state's pioneering spirit and cultural heritage," Gov. Heineman said. "It reflected the resolve, persistence and incomparable work ethic that our forbearers brought to the plains."

The U.S. Treasury Department expects to mint around 500 million Nebraska commemorative quarters, which are expected to be in circulation for at least 30 years. Nebraska quarters are scheduled to be issued to the public in April 2006. An image of the quarter is available on the Governor's Web site at http://www.gov.state.ne.us/news/2005_06/01_quarter.

http://gov.nol.org/news/2005_06/06_chimney_rock.html