Craftsmen, artisans POP-IN along Highway 14

This weekend many Nebraska craftsmen and artisans are gathered to sell their Nebraska-made products along Highway 14.

The event is called POP-IN, or Products on Parade in Nebraska. The purpose of this event, which began Saturday and continues today, is to encourage skill development and promotion of cottage industries and small businesses in the eight counties through which Highway 14 runs.

It also offers participants the opportunity to display and sell their products to a wider consumer base than traditionally available and to promote tourist attractions along Highway 14.

Cities along Highway 14 participating in the POP-IN event are Verdigre, Neligh, Elgin, Petersburg, Albion, Fullerton, Central City and Aurora.

Product stands are set up in businesses in these communities, where people were able to sell their Nebraska-made crafts. From blankets to bouquets, many items are found at this event.

There are also informational booths set up to inform the public about the Highway 14 Association.

“Last year, POP-IN made around $30,000, with Fullerton alone bringing in $3,000,” said Betty Mapes, Fullerton's POP-IN contact person.

The POP-IN event in Fullerton is taking place at the Broken Arrow Wilderness camp.

A total of 32 vendors have come to sell their items there.

The Genoa Senior Center is one of the vendors selling their Nebraska-made products.

“We have canned cake, jams, jellies, cook books and candles all made from volunteers at the Genoa Senior Center,” said Charlane Shotkoski, Genoa Senior Center Manager.

Theresa Drozd, a volunteer for the Genoa Senior Center, said, “POP-IN is a great opportunity for places like us to get a lot of great exposure.”

Dietlind Bettridge traveled from Cambridge to sell her original jewelry at the Fullerton POP-IN.

“They invited me to come here because all of my products are made original in my own living room,” said Bettridge.

The first year the Highway 14 Association organized this event was 2004. POP-IN won the 2005 Outstanding New Event Award from the Nebraska Department of Travel and Tourism.

Another POP-IN is scheduled for Oct. 21-22.

For more information about POP-IN or the Highway 14 Association, visit www.highway14.org.