Potential huge for Smokin’ on Broadway event

Wayne has its Chicken Show. Avoca has its Quack-off Duck Races. Ashland has its Testicle Festival. Wauneta has Harvest Festival. Chase County has the Chase County Fair. And now, Imperial has Smokin’ on Broadway.
    The second annual Smokin’ on Broadway event Saturday proved to be even bigger and better than last year’s inaugural event. The potential exists to make this a hallmark event for the community of Imperial.
    Once again, the event was held in conjunction with the third straight appearance of the Hear Nebraska Tour, headed up by Imperial’s own Andy Norman. Plus, The Talbott Brothers from Imperial headlined the concert to cap off a perfect day.
    While afternoon temperatures reached into the 90s, it beat the drizzle and rain that fell during last year’s event. And by the time the concert started, the temperature was just perfect.
    Hats off to all the organizers, volunteers and participants who made this year’s event a success.
    What started out as the brainchild of Jana Pribbeno and her son, Tyler, about five years ago, “Smokin’” came to fruition last year.
    In cooperation with the city of Imperial and the Imperial Chamber of Commerce, the “Smokin’ ” committee has created an event that brings people to town and showcases the community.
    Committee members are already looking how to grow the event and make this a signature event for Imperial.
    I’m guessing the 3rd Annual Smokin’ on Broadway next year will continue to build on the success of the past two years. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the event eventually outgrow it’s downtown location as barbecue meisters make Smokin’ on Broadway a must-attend contest and event.
    Even great big events started small and continued to build—the success of the Chase County Fair is a perfect example. Smokin’ on Broadway has that same feel and potential and I see big things in the future for an event that started with an idea.