WAYNE – A group of business executives and community leaders came together Wednesday to recognize the achievements of their peers.
The Nebraska Diplomats held a joint conference with the Nebraska Economic Developers Association. There they gave out awards to those who have contributed to Nebraska’s economic development. It’s something Governor Pete Ricketts on has focused on during his tenure.
“For three years in a row, we have had more economic development projects than North Dakota, South Dakota and Kansas combined,” Ricketts said.
Neligh-based Two Rivers Irrigation took home the Business of the Year award. The city of Columbus captured the Community of the Year award.
The Diplomat of the Year award went to Jim Bradford Jr. of Norfolk. Bradford has been a diplomat since 1996 and has contributed to several development projects in the city and across the state.
Although these few won awards, Ricketts made it clear that all the diplomats play an important role in the state’s growth.
“What these awards ultimately mean is that we’re creating job opportunities for Nebraska families so they can enjoy the good life in Nebraska,” Ricketts said.