[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 128 (Wednesday, September 22, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1707]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   HONORING RECIPIENTS OF 2010 THIRD DISTRICT EXCELLENCE IN ECONOMIC 
                           DEVELOPMENT AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ADRIAN SMITH

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 22, 2010

  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor eleven 
individuals, organizations and businesses from Nebraska for receiving 
the 2010 Third District Excellence in Economic Development Award.
  Nebraska, like many rural states, unfortunately has seen a ``brain 
drain'' in recent years and, now more than ever, needs entrepreneurs 
and innovators.
  In June, I called for nominations for individuals, businesses, and 
organizations which have helped strengthen Nebraska communities. These 
entrepreneurs do more than just build successful businesses. They host 
charity events, serve on local chambers of commerce, and shape the 
character of our towns and cities.
  The nominations came from many different people, from teenagers 
starting their own business to leaders in the business communities. All 
of the nominees have shown they are striving to help their home towns 
succeed into the future.
  Hartelco (Hartington): This firm has contributed significant economic 
growth and business retention in rural Nebraska by supplying state-of-
the-art telecommunications infrastructure, including plans for all 
businesses and residents to be connected to fiber optics. The company 
recently completed a $1.5 million dollar office building and donates 
manpower, equipment, and time to community projects.
  Ward Laboratories, Inc. (Kearney): This company provides agricultural 
testing of soil, plant, and fertilizer samples which lead to more 
informed land management practices. The company, through principles 
based on science, has contributed to the economic advancement of many 
rural areas in Nebraska.
  Green Revolution Handbags (Albion): Lauren Bygland, a Boone Central 
High School senior, produces fashionable purses made of recyclable 
materials--including film strips, rice bags, and playing cards. She 
will continue her earth-friendly design business while majoring in 
business in college.
  Don Freeman (York): Don Freeman has followed his family tradition of 
community service for over 50 years, both as a business owner and by 
serving on many community boards. He has contributed to job creation 
through expansion of his own company, and by supporting the economic 
development efforts of the region.
  Tracee Ford/Stacey Adamson (Cody/Kilgore): These two teachers worked 
with students to secure grant funding, along with community 
contributions to start a student business incubator, including a 
student-run and community-owned grocery store. The project has 
revitalized the area and serves as an example of education in 
entrepreneurship bringing economic opportunities to rural areas.
  Sandhills Country Door Cafe and Coffee House (Mullen): Tim and 
Jennifer Macke have offered locals a place to get home cooked meals, 
specialty drinks, computer repairs, and local greeting cards--as well 
as providing a space for locals to gather to mark a special occasion. 
The efforts of this couple in providing essential community services 
contribute to sustaining the community.
  Barb Sprague (Red Cloud): Barb has given selflessly to the Red Cloud 
community through public service, school involvement, and faith-based 
events. She has recently initiated a leadership group in Red Cloud 
which has resulted in receiving grant funding to promote business 
development in the community.
  Heartland Shooting Park (Grand Island): Created primarily through 
private donations and thousands of volunteer hours, this city-operated 
shooting park has been the site of several national competitive events, 
including the U.S. Practical Shooting Area 3 Championships and the 
National 4-H Invitational, bringing hundreds of visitors to the region.
  Apogee Retail, LLC (Columbus): Apogee employees conduct outbound 
phone calls on behalf of various charities requesting donations of 
household and clothing items. The Columbus facility employs more than 
600 area residents and has been recognized for hiring and training 
employees with disabilities.
  Thompson Wildcat Trailers (Albion): Curtis Thompson, a junior at 
Boone Central High School, designs, builds, and modifies custom 
trailers. He has utilized his skills in welding and wiring to start his 
business. Following graduation, he plans to expand his business through 
continued training in diesel mechanics.
  I am proud to be able to recognize all of the honorees today and I 
thank them for their service to Nebraska.

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