[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 118 (Thursday, July 21, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1157]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING RECIPIENTS OF THE 2016 THIRD DISTRICT EXCELLENCE IN ECONOMIC 
                           DEVELOPMENT AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ADRIAN SMITH

                              of nebraska

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 21, 2016

  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, today I honor eight individuals 
and businesses from Nebraska receiving the 2016 Third District 
Excellence in Economic Development Award.
   Throughout the 75 counties of the Third District, entrepreneurs and 
innovators are working hard to grow opportunity in our state.
   In May, I called for nominations for individuals, businesses, and 
organizations which have helped strengthen their communities. All of 
the nominees have shown they are striving to ensure a strong economic 
future for Nebraskans.
   Aulick Industries in Scottsbluff, owned by the Aulick family for 
three generations, employs approximately 100 people in welding, 
fabrication, tire installation, laundry, auto body tech, decal design, 
and administration. The company is also involved in Scottsbluff Public 
Schools' Every Child, Every Day, Everywhere initiative with a goal of 
introducing students to opportunities in manufacturing and technology 
careers in the region.
   Brent Comstock of Auburn has owned BCom Solutions since middle 
school. His technology business has grown to include computer repairs, 
IT management, software development, and web design. Brent 
headquartered BCom Solutions in a previously vacant storefront in 
Auburn and encourages his staff to give back to the community through 
nonprofit and community board involvement. He donates thousands of 
dollars in design and digital marketing services to nonprofits and 
offers free workshops and consultations for businesses. Brent also 
provides internships to Peru State College.
   Bruning Grocery's commitment to hard work, small-town values, and 
providing exceptional service and quality products has made the store a 
cornerstone of Bruning, a community of approximately 280 people. Its 
competitive prices draw many customers from surrounding towns, 
encouraging more Nebraskans to shop local. Owned by the Philippi family 
for more than 40 years, Bruning Grocery serves as a leading food 
supplier for local events and a major contributor to the vibrancy of 
Bruning's Main Street.
   Chais Meyer of Kearney co-owns 24 Hour Tees, an innovative shirt 
shop known for its responsiveness to local customers while selling 
products across the country and around the world. Chais is an advocate 
for e-commerce as a way to grow rural economies. He is also a member of 
Kearney's Downtown Improvement Board to help advance the future of 
retail and the community.
   Jody Augustyn is the owner of Shanti Yoga by Jody Augustyn, ERYT, 
based in Loup City and Kearney. In her five years in business, Jody has 
become known by many as a committed and passionate teacher. In addition 
to leading her own classes, she also certifies new instructors.
   Landmark Snacks, founded in April 2016 by Nebraska natives Chad and 
Courtney Lottman, is a jerky and meat snacks production facility in 
Beatrice employing 50 people. In 1994, at the age of 19, the Lottmans 
started out as grocery store owners and have grown their business to 
also include C&C Processing in Diller. Landmark Snacks surpassed its 
three-year growth plan in a matter of months.
   Pacha Soap, headquartered in Hastings, is owned by Hastings College 
graduates Andrew and Abi Vrbas. Founded in 2012, Pacha Soap employs 16 
people in the Hastings area and sells handcrafted products throughout 
the country. For every bar of soap purchased, they give a bar to 
someone in need. The company also sets up small soap shops in 
developing nations to encourage entrepreneurship while supporting WASH 
(Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) efforts through education and 
donation.
   Sand Creek Post & Beam in Wayne is the leading manufacturer of 
custom-designed wood barn and barn home kits. This family-owned company 
employs about 50 Nebraskans and has served thousands of customers in 48 
states, helping them design their dream barns. Sand Creek's production 
plant was destroyed by an EF4 tornado in October 2013, but owners Jule 
Goeller and Len Dickinson never wavered in their commitment to rebuild. 
The company operated out of temporary quarters until its grand 
reopening in summer 2014.
   I am proud to recognize these award winners today, and I thank them 
for their many contributions to Nebraska.

                          ____________________