Nebraska Community Improvement Program

“Nebraska’s Blueprint for Success” Nebraska Community Improvement Program

A Partnership of: The Nebraska Department of Economic Development The University of Nebraska

Sponsored by the following Investor-owned Utilities: ALLTEL * Northern Natural Gas * Glenwood Telephone * Aquila * Great Plains Communications, Inc. * HunTel Systems * Kinder Morgan, Inc. * NorthWestern Energy 2005 AWARDS GUIDE “Call for Entries” NCIP SPONSORS PROVIDE GENEROUS SUPPORT Investor-owned utilities generously support the Nebraska Community Improvement Program, demonstrating a profound commitment to fostering growth in Nebraska’s communities.

Stephanie Johanns Tim Armstrong Terry Wootton ALLTEL Great Plains NorthWestern Energy P.O. Box 81309 Communications, Inc. P.O. Box 220 Lincoln, NE 68501 P.O. Box 500 Grand Island, NE 68802 Blair, NE 68008

Mike Loeffler Mick Mines Jan Davis Northern Natural Gas HunTel Systems Aquila P.O. Box 3330 P.O. Box 400 501 West 6th Street Omaha, NE 68124-1000 Blair, NE 68008-0400 Papillion, NE 68046

Micki Schmidt Char Reiman Mary Simmons Glenwood Telephone Kinder Morgan, Inc. Aquila P.O. Box 97 P.O. Box 204 P.O. Box 83008 Blue Hill, NE 68930 Blue Hill, NE 68930 Lincoln, NE 68501-3008

For Information Contact:

Kathy McKillip, Economic Development Consultant & NCIP Coordinator Nebraska Department of Economic Development Community and Rural Development Division P.O. Box 94666 301 Centennial Mall South Lincoln, NE 68509-4666 (402) 471-6587 or (800) 426-6505 Fax: (402) 471-8405 E-mail: [email protected] NCIP Website: http://crd.neded.org/ncip/ DED Website: http://neded.org TABLE OF CONTENTS

Statewide Community Improvement Events Calendar...... 3

NCIP Calendar of Events...... 4

Introduction to NCIP...... 5

How to Participate...... 6

NCIP Awards Summary...... 7

NCIP Project Category Descriptions...... 8

Intent to Enter Form...... 9

Government Resolution Form...... 10

Special Project Award Instructions and Nomination Form...... 11-12

Blueprint for Success Award Instructions and Nomination Form...... 13-15

Otto G. Hoiberg Award Information...... 16

Founders Award Instructions and Nomination Form...... 17-18

Good Neighbor Award...... 19

Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community Service Award Instructions and Nomination Form ...... 20-21

Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award Instructions and Nomination Form...... 22

Sustaining NCIP Community Form...... 23

Blueprint for Success Award Nomination Checklist...... 24

Preparing for NCIP Judges Visit (Blueprint for Success Award Nominations only)...... 25

NCIP Ambassador Program...... 26

NCIP Advisory Committee...... 27

NCIP 2004 Participants Map and 2004 Award Winners List...... 28-30

1 Statewide Community Improvement Events Calendar

March 28-April 3: Community Development Week and Governor’s Proclamation Signing Lincoln, NE Contact Lindsay Papenhausen at [email protected] for more information

March 31-April 2: Nebraska Chapter American Planning Association APA Institutes/NPZA Conference Holiday Inn – Kearney, NE Contact Steve Charleston at [email protected] for more information

April 25: eBay for Small Business Workshop Nebraska City, NE Contact Monica Brown at (402) 643-2673 for more information

April 25: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Participation Workshop* Western Nebraska Community College 371 College Dr. Sidney, NE

April 26: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Participation Workshop* McCook Community College McCook, NE

April 27: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Participation Workshop* Central Community College 3134 West Hwy 34 Grand Island, NE

May 9: Nebraska Diplomats Business & Industry Day The Field Club of Omaha Omaha, NE Contact Lori Shaal at [email protected]

May 9: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Participation Workshop* Northeast Community College 801 Benjamin Ave. Norfolk, NE

May 10: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Participation Workshop* Bassett Community Center Basset, NE

May 12: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Participation Workshop* Southeast Community College 4771 West Scott Road Beatrice, NE

September: Mid-American Economic Development Council South Sioux City, NE Visit http://www.maedc.net for more information

November 3: Heartland Center for Leadership Training and NCIP Pre-Conference Session* Scottsbluff, NE – Location TBA

*For more information and additional details, please contact Kathy McKillip at (800) 426-6505 or email [email protected]

2 NCIP CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June 1, 2005: Submission Deadline: o NCIP Intent to Enter Form o Government Resolution(s) o Sustaining NCIP Community Form (Pertains only to communities not submitting award nominations)

July 2005: NCIP Awards Nomination Workshops (Prepare to submit NCIP Nomination Forms)

August 31, 2005 Submission Deadline: o Special Project Award Nominations o Blueprint for Success Award Nominations o Founders Award Nominations

September 9, 2005 Submission Deadline: o Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award Nominations o Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community Service Award Nominations o Good Neighbor Award Nominations

September 12-15 2005: Special Award Nominations Judged in Lincoln

September 19- 22 (or) September 26- 29, 2005 Blueprint for Success Award: Judges Site Visits

November 3, 2005 Heartland Center for Leadership Training & NCIP Pre- Conference Sessions Scottsbluff, NE – Location TBA

November 4, 2005 Community Quest 2005 Conference and NCIP Annual Recognition Banquet Gering Civic Center, Gering (9 a.m. – 9 p.m.)

November 5, 2005 Post Conference NCIP Advisory & Ambassador Meeting Scottsbluff-Gering Community Tours – TBA

3 INTRODUCTION TO NCIP

NCIP has recognized Nebraska communities annually since 1963 for their improvement efforts completed each year, with an emphasis on the achievements of grassroots volunteers. Communities that have participated in the NCIP process have experienced many positive benefits as a result. Some benefits of participation in NCIP include:

 Community volunteers are awarded and recognized for their efforts.

 Stronger leadership and increased community-wide involvement.

 Increased community pride and sense of identity.

 Better communication between government, local organizations, and citizens.

 Positive publicity for communities.

 Communities identify and build on their strengths.

 Excellence achieved through a competitive process.

 Community projects are published in the annual Nebraska Project Networking Guide.

 Participating communities can display the NCIP roadside sign.

 Market community image as an award-winning community.

 Specialized training and technical assistance to enhance volunteer’s ability to accomplish community improvement and economic development goals.

 Celebrate Success!

NCIP: Nebraska’s Blueprint for Success Community volunteers who participate in NCIP have proven that there are three components to community success. These components, which structure the NCIP process, include:

1. A community planning process that encourages citizen participation.

2. A volunteer and leadership development process that involves recruitment, training, and recognition strategies for local volunteers and leaders.

3. Documentation of community and economic development accomplishments that result from incorporating a planning and leadership development process with an emphasis on grassroots volunteer efforts in the community.

4 HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN NCIP

I. Form a Local Committee and Identify Goals and Accomplishments Communities are encouraged to form a NCIP committee to effectively set goals, identify projects, and compile necessary information for submitting award nominations. In forming a local committee, communities may: 1. Designate an existing organization to coordinate projects. 2. Form an umbrella organization with members from existing organizations. 3. Create a new action-oriented organization to oversee their participation. 4. Create a youth component.

II. Submit an Intent to Enter Form and Government Resolution by June 1, 2005 All participants submitting award nominations must complete the “Intent to Enter Form” (page 8). The form identifies the names and contact information of individuals who are going to coordinate the award nomination submissions for the current program year.

In addition, local government boards, city councils, or county commissioners must pass a Government Resolution (page 9) to endorse their participation in NCIP. Resolutions can be passed for multiple years to save time and effort.

The government resolution should be submitted with the Intent to Enter Form by June 1, 2005. All communities participating will receive a certificate of achievement and recognition at the 2005 NCIP Banquet.

III. Submit Entries For Judging by the Awards Nomination Deadline Nominations for the “Special Project Awards,” “Blueprint for Success Awards,” and “Founders Awards,” must be submitted no later than August 31, 2005, (postmarked or hand-delivered) to be considered in the judging process for award recognition. See individual award nomination forms for instructions on how to complete for submission.

Award nominations for the “Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community Service” Award, the “Marilyn Ristine” Award, and the “Good Neighbor” Award must be submitted no later than September 9, 2005.

IV. Attend the Annual NCIP Conference and Awards Recognition Banquet Community volunteers, leaders, local government staff, service providers, nonprofit organizations, and other professionals working in community and economic development are encouraged to attend the annual NCIP Conference and Awards Recognition Banquet on November 4, 2005, at the Gering Civic Center in Gering, Neb.

All NCIP awards will be announced at the annual recognition banquet. Prior to the banquet, all award nominations will be on display and several networking opportunities are available to share resources, ideas, and questions about community and economic development efforts.

V. NCIP Signs After a community completes one year of participation in NCIP, it is eligible to purchase an NCIP roadside sign for $30. NCIP Sponsors supplement additional costs for NCIP signs.

5 NCIP AWARDS SUMMARY

Communities may submit nominations for a variety of awards in NCIP as listed below. Please see the appropriate form and instructions page for more information about a specific award nomination process.

Special Project Awards Special Project Awards recognize outstanding community projects in three categories, including 1) volunteer and leadership development; 2) community development; and 3) economic development. Participants may nominate a maximum of one project in each of the above main categories.

Blueprint for Success Awards (Community Notebook) (CASH Awards) Blueprint for Success Awards recognize communities or multi-communities that have implemented a comprehensive approach following the NCIP Blueprint for Success for community and economic development. Communities will submit a report book and receive a site visit by NCIP judges. Blueprint for Success Awards include cash awards for first, second and third places in each population category.

Founders Award The Founders Award recognizes one outstanding intergovernmental project or program in Nebraska that encompasses creative collaboration between governments for the purpose of serving its citizens in an effective manner. The award honors David Carson and David Osterhout who founded NCIP in 1963.

Good Neighbor Award Good Neighbor Awards are given to communities for providing assistance, support and encouragement to a neighboring community or region. A community must be nominated by another community.

Youth Leadership Award for Outstanding Community Service (YLOCS) ( $250 CASH Awards) Youth members of participating NCIP communities, who have demonstrated leadership through work in community service, are eligible to be nominated for award recognition. One youth leader in each population category will be selected by a committee of NCIP judges to receive individual recognition.

Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award The Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award recognizes an unpaid volunteer who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to his/her community through involvement with NCIP. The award is named for Marilyn Ristine (1928-1992), a long-time Gothenburg resident who was known as an outstanding community leader.

Otto Hoiberg Award ($500 CASH Award) Every year, one Blueprint for Success Award participant receives the Otto Hoiberg Award for the best overall community and economic development program, regardless of population size. The award emphasizes a sound planning process as essential to a successful local community development program. The award honors the late Dr. Otto Hoiberg for his dedication to enacting programs for community improvement and to recognizing community development achievements. (First Place Blueprint for Success winners in each population class will be automatically considered for the award; no nomination form is required).

6 NCIP PROJECT CATEGORIES

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Choose one of the following topics to enter under the Leadership Development Category.

Volunteer and Leadership Development Projects and activities designed to help individuals and organizations acquire leadership skills and create opportunities for leadership roles are eligible. Emphasis is given to activities that identify and support new or emerging volunteer leaders from all age groups. OR Youth Involvement and Leadership Development Leadership development programs targeting youth and project activities that promote leadership skills are eligible. Activities where youth are involved in project identification, planning, and decision-making are emphasized.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Choose one of the following topics to enter under the Economic Development Category.

Business Assistance and Development Projects aimed at helping startup or recruit new businesses, or retain and expand existing businesses and industries are eligible. Examples include business visitation and support activities; technology or incubator centers; entrepreneurial training; access to the Internet; and regional efforts to strengthen the area economy. OR Tourism Promotion and Development Projects that enhance communities’ tourism potential are eligible. Examples include developing or expanding an event or attraction; conducting publicity on specific tourism events or attractions; creating a visitor information center; and launching heritage tourism projects.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Choose one of the following topics to enter under the Community Development Category.

Community Services Services that improve a community’s quality of life are the emphasis here. Projects may encompass health care, housing, childcare, or services for senior citizens, youth and other special populations, facilities specially designed for community education programs, and satellite rural health clinics. OR Public Works, Facilities, Services, and Planning Eligible activities include where local governments (in cooperation with citizens) improve public works, facilities, services, and planning. Examples include street, water, or sewer improvements; physical and/or program improvements to airports, schools, hospitals, and volunteer fire departments; and comprehensive planning. OR Environmental Projects and Awareness Activities that help improve the environment are eligible. Examples include recycling efforts; programs that reduce dependency on landfills; projects that facilitate the safe disposal of toxic products; and programs that educate the public on ways to protect the environment. OR Parks, Recreation and Forestry Projects that expand or develop parks, recreation or community forestry opportunities for residents are eligible. Examples include physical or program improvements to parks, recreational facilities and forests; educational efforts to increase public awareness; and plans for long-term maintenance needs. OR Arts and Humanities Cultural activities is the focus here. Examples include the development or improvement of museums and landmarks; historic preservation projects; and drama, dance, music, literature, and visual arts productions or displays. Projects that create an awareness of community origins and heritage through folklore and history also are eligible.

7 2005 NCIP INTENT TO ENTER FORM

Deadline: Submit by June 1, 2005 (along with the Government Resolution)

1. Name of Community or Multi Community ______

2. Names of Officers Chairperson ______Mailing Address ______Day Phone (____) ______Eve. Phone (____) ______Fax (____) ______E-mail ______Assistant Chairperson ______Mailing Address ______Day Phone (____) ______Eve. Phone (____) ______Fax (____) ______E-mail ______Person Writing (or Coordinating) Nominations ______Mailing Address ______Day Phone (____) ______Eve. Phone (____) ______Fax (____) ______E-mail ______

3. NCIP Contact Person (Primary Recipient of Correspondence) ______Mailing Address ______Day Phone (____) ______Eve. Phone (____) ______Fax (____) ______E-mail ______

4. NCIP Options (check all that apply to what the community intends to enter for NCIP)  Sustaining NCIP Community (pertains only to communities not submitting awards)  Special Project Awards  Blueprint for Success Awards (Community Notebook)  Founders Award (Intergovernmental)  Good Neighbor Award (Nominating Another Community)  Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community Service Award (Individual Youth Leaders)  Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award (Individual Adult Leader)

5. Release of Information: The committee gives the Nebraska Department of Economic Development permission to duplicate the awards nomination information for public distribution, including on the Internet. YES______NO______signed Chairperson

8 GOVERNMENT RESOLUTION

Deadline: Submit by June 1, 2005 (along with the Intent to Enter Form)

Resolution # ______

WHEREAS, local municipal and county government must provide leadership for improving community and economic development efforts; and

WHEREAS, community and economic development needs can best be determined and solved through a cooperative effort between elected officials and the citizens they represent; and

WHEREAS, the Nebraska Community Improvement Program, administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, has been reviewed and found to be a means to improve our community; and

WHEREAS, the city council, village board or county commissioners of the city, village or county of ______do herewith pledge their full support, endorsement, and cooperation in carrying out the requirements of the NCIP;

Now Therefore Be It Resolved,

that the city, village or county of ______urges its citizens to join this effort and hereby declares this city, village or county to be an official entrant in the NCIP for the year(s) of ______.

PASSED AND APPROVED THIS ______DAY OF ______, ______

Attest:

______City/Village/County Clerk Chief Elected Official

9 SPECIAL PROJECT AWARDS DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

NCIP Special Project Awards recognize communities for outstanding projects in the areas of leadership, community and economic development. Grassroots volunteer involvement in the planning and implementation of the projects are emphasized. Communities are encouraged to enter innovative or creative projects that have been completed during the past year (September 1, 2004- August 31, 2005) or that occur on an annual or ongoing basis.

Intent to Enter judged on the content submitted. Special Participants must submit the Intent to Enter Project Awardees do not receive a Form and Government Resolution by June community visit. 1, 2005. Format Award Nomination Deadline Each special award nomination is limited to Nominations must be postmarked (or hand- five pages. Questions on the nomination delivered by 5 p.m. CST) by August 31, form are addressed in narrative form. 2005, to the NCIP Coordinator. Supporting documentation, such as news articles and photos may also be submitted Nomination Process within the page maximums. Nominations Communities may nominate a maximum of must be typed using an 11-point or larger one project under each of the following font and one inch or larger margins. general categories for Special Project Award consideration: Volunteer and Leadership Covers and/or folders are not allowed. Development, Community Development, Staple each copy in the upper left- hand Economic Development (See page eight for corner. Submit one original and two copies a description of the categories and topic of each Special Project Award. In addition choices). to supporting documentation, submit two color photos in a labeled envelope for each Judging Criteria project nomination. Include the name of the  Planning and Implementation (20 points) project and a description on the back of each  Volunteer Involvement (10 points) photo. Special Award Nominations will not  Project Outcomes (50 points) be returned.  Resources Identification (10 points)  Project Innovation (10 points) State Recognition The Special Project Award winners will be Judging Process announced in November 2005 at the NCIP Each project category will be judged by a Awards Banquet following the Community separate team of judges chosen for their Quest Conference. One first place award experience and expertise in their respective will be announced in each population class topics. Award nominations are judged and for each topic. NCIP will present the winner awarded in population categories, which are with a plaque and help promote the Special determined after all nominations are Award winners as models for other submitted. Judging will take place in communities to follow. September 2005. Nominations will be

10 SPECIAL PROJECT AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Deadline: Submit by August. 31, 2005

Name of Community or Multi-Community: ______Population ______Name of Project: ______Project Contact Person: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______Category? ______Topic? ______Date Project Begun (mo./yr) ______/______Date Completed (mo./yr.)______/______Please check if the project is Annual/Ongoing ______Volunteer Hours ______Number of Volunteers ______

1) Briefly describe the project.

2) Identify the planning and implementation of the project. Include the following in the summary: a.) Describe methods used to plan and implement the project; b.) Describe how the project relates to the communities overall goals; c.) Describe how the project was identified as a priority for the community.

3) Describe volunteer involvement in planning and implementing the project. Include the following in the summary: a.) Describe how responsibilities were delegated among volunteers; b.) Describe how volunteers were recruited for the project.

4) Identify Project Outcomes. Include the following in the summary: a.) Describe what the community intend to change as a result of the project; b.) Describe community-wide support behind the project; c.) Describe how the final project impacted the community, including measurable data (measurable data includes both qualitative and quantitative information).

5) Describe how resources were identified and used to successfully implement the project.

6) Describe any unique or creative aspects (if any) of the project.

NOTE: In addition to supporting documentation, please submit two (2) color photos with captions in a labeled envelope (or on a disk if sending electronically) for each Special Award Nomination. You may also e-mail these photos to: [email protected].

11 BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS AWARDS DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Blueprint for Success Award Nominations may be submitted by communities or multi-communities that have implemented a comprehensive approach to community development involving planning with citizen participation, volunteer and leadership development, and project accomplishments. Emphasis is placed on accomplishments completed during the past program year (September 1, 2004-August 31, 2005) or annual and/or ongoing projects.

Intent to Enter Participants must submit the Intent to Enter Format Form and Government Resolution by June 1, Communities must submit the Award 2005. Nomination in an 8 ½” x 11” three-ring binder. Use the Blueprint for Success Nomination Form Award Nomination Deadline to complete parts I, II and III. The questions are Nominations must be postmarked (or hand- addressed in narrative form. Supporting delivered by 5 p.m. CST) by August 31, 2005, to documentation, such as news articles and photos the NCIP Coordinator. may also be submitted within the page maximums. Nominations must be typed using Nomination Process an 11-point or larger font and one inch or larger Communities must complete Parts I, II and III of margins. Include a Table of Contents with the Blueprint for Success Nomination Form and consecutively numbered pages. Indicate those submit the completed product in a three-ring projects that are also being nominated for a binder by the awards deadline. Special Project Award in the Table of Contents. Divider pages are acceptable. Cover artwork is Judging Criteria permitted, but will not be evaluated in the Nominations are judged and awarded in judging process. population categories, which are determined after all nominations are submitted. Each Submit the Notebook and three additional copies population category is assigned a team of judges of each Special Project Award. In addition to who evaluate improvement efforts according to supporting documentation, submit two color the following criteria (see nomination questions photos in a labeled envelope for each Special for a full description of the judging criteria): Project Award nominated and two photos  Planning and Leadership Development (40 representing additional accomplishments. The Points) Community Notebooks will be returned at the  Project Accomplishments (50 Points) Annual Awards Ceremony held in November.  Additional and Ongoing Projects (10 Points) (See page 24 for a report book checklist)

Judging Process State Recognition Nominations are judged through a combination The Blueprint for Success Award winners will of reviewing the Blueprint for Success be announced in November 2005 at the NCIP Nomination Form and a community visit. Awards Banquet following the Community Community visits will occur the week of Quest Conference. Plaques and cash awards are September 19- 22, or September 26-29, 2005. presented to the top three communities in each Communities will be informed of the time and population class. Population classes are date of their visit one to two weeks prior to the determined after all nominations are received. visit. Judges’ comments are shared with st communities following announcement of Cash Awards 1 Place: $500 awards. 2nd Place: $300 3rd Place: $200

12 BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS AWARD NOMINATION FORM Cash Award!

Deadline: Submit by August 31, 2005

Name of Community or Multi-Community: ______Population: ______Contact Person: ______Address: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______

Part I – Planning and Leadership Development Process (40 points) With a maximum of five pages, address the following questions with written responses and/or supporting documentation, such as news articles and photos:

1) Describe the community or multi-communities planning process. Include the following in your summary: a. How citizens participate in the process; b. What methods are used to set goals and priorities to build consensus toward a common vision; c. What methods are used to evaluate community progress; and d. The type of plans and strategies that have been developed by the community.

2) Describe the community’s efforts to develop local leadership and volunteerism. Include efforts to involve and recruit a broad base of volunteers in the planning and implementation of community-wide projects.

3) What efforts has the community made to offer training opportunities, and to recognize and publish accomplishments of volunteers?

4) How does your community identify community organizations and their roles? Describe how this information is shared and used in the community.

5) Has your community conducted a survey in the last three years? Yes______No______If yes, please include the tabulated results in the Appendix, and describe how the survey has been used as part of the community planning process. If no, describe other efforts made to compile community input for needs identification.

6) Has your community conducted an inventory of resources, or begun to enter data into the Location One Information System (LOIS) or the Nebraska Economic Development Info (NEDI online)? Yes______No______

(Continued…OVER)

13 BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS AWARD NOMINATION FORM (CONTINUED)

Part II– Project Accomplishments (50 Points) Address the following questions for up to five projects. With a maximum of five pages per project, please address the following questions with written responses and/or supporting documentation, such as news articles and photos.

Name of Community or Multi-Community: ______Population ______Name of Project: ______Project Contact Person: ______Day Phone: ______Eve, Phone: ______E-mail: ______Nominated for a Special Award? ______YES ______NO If Yes, Category?______Topic?______Date Project Begun (mo./yr) ______/______Date Completed (mo./yr.)______/______Please Check if the Project is Annual/Ongoing ______Volunteer Hours ______Number of Volunteers ______

1. Briefly describe the project.

2. Identify the planning and implementation of the project. Include the following in the summary: a.) Describe methods used to plan and implement the project; b.) Describe how the project relates to the communities overall goals; c.) Describe how the project was identified as a priority for the community.

3. Describe volunteer involvement in planning and implementing the project. Include the following in the summary: a.) Describe how responsibilities were delegated among volunteers; b.) Describe how volunteers were recruited for the project.

4. Identify Project Outcomes. Include the following in the summary: a.) Describe what the community intend to change as a result of the project; b.) Describe community-wide support behind the project; c.) Describe how the final project impacted the community, including measurable data (measurable data includes both qualitative and quantitative information).

5. Describe how resources were identified and used to successfully implement the project.

6. Describe any unique or creative aspects (if any) of the project.

Part III- Additional and Ongoing Projects (10 points) Provide the following information for additional and ongoing projects using a maximum of five pages, including supporting documentation.

1. Please list additional and ongoing projects in your community. Include a brief description of the projects and the group(s) responsible for planning and implementing the projects.

14 OTTO G. HOIBERG AWARD $500 Cash Award!

Each year, one Blueprint for Success Award participant receives the Otto G. Hoiberg Award for best overall community and economic development program, regardless of population size. The award emphasizes a sound planning process as essential to a successful local community development process.

This prestigious award honors the late Dr. Otto G. Hoiberg for his dedication to enacting programs for community improvement and to recognizing community development achievements.

Eligibility

The first place Blueprint for Success Award winners in each population class are eligible and automatically considered for the Otto G. Hoiberg Award.

Judging Criteria

 Process (25 Points) Scoring is based on a review of the citizen participation process, goal setting process, planning process, and resource identification and utilization.

 Involvement (25 Points) Scoring is based on a review of overall community involvement and efforts to recruit and retain involvement in the community improvement process.

 Progress and Vision (50 Points) Scoring is based on a review of the accomplishments submitted, how accomplishments relate to community goals, community vision, action planning, and evaluation.

Judging Process

A team of judges will review the first-place Blueprint for Success Award nominations to determine the overall winner. No additional nomination form is required.

State Recognition

The Otto G. Hoiberg award winner will be announced in November 2005 at the NCIP Awards Banquet following the Community Quest Conference. A special plaque and $500 Cash Award will be presented to the winning community.

15 FOUNDERS AWARD DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

The Founders Award recognizes one submit it to the NCIP Coordinator by the outstanding intergovernmental project or Awards Deadline. program in Nebraska that encompasses Judging Criteria creative collaborations between governments Judging will be based on the following criteria: for the purpose of serving its citizens in an  Project or Program Description (10 points) effective manner. The award honors David  Significance (15 points) Carson and David Osterhout who founded  Cost and Resource Effectiveness (30 points) NCIP in 1963.  Impact and Effectiveness (30 points)  Innovation (15 points) The project must include two or more governmental entities (at least one of these at Judging Process the city, town, or county level). Districts or A committee of judges will select one Founders regional governmental entities with their Award winner based on the judging criteria. own taxing authority (such as school Founders Award nominations do not receive districts) are also eligible. The project must site visits from the judges. be administered under the authority of one or more of the above governmental entities that Format have played a formative role in its design Founders Award nominations are limited to and initiation. seven pages . Questions on the nomination form are addressed in narrative form. Supporting Examples include: combining departments documentation, such as news articles and photos and/or functions; signinginter-local may also be submitted within the page agreements between communities to develop maximums. Nominations must be typed using regional recycling centers or landfills; an 11-point or larger font with one inch or larger purchasing and sharing equipment, supplies, margins. or resources among two ore more governmental entities; establishing Covers and/or folders are not allowed. Staple cooperative economic development efforts; each copy in the upper left-hand corner. Six (6) and jointly hiring service providers, such as copies of the nomination are required. In information technology specialists or addition to supporting documentation, submit emergency communications personnel. two color photos, in a labeled envelope, that represent the project or program. Include the Intent to Enter name of the project and a description on the Participants must submit the Intent to Enter back of each photo. Founders Award Form and Government Resolution by June 1, nomination forms are not returned. 2005. State Recognition Award Deadline The Founders Award will be announced in The award nomination must be postmarked November 2005 at the NCIP Awards Banquet by August 31, 2005, (or hand-delivered by 5 following the Community Quest Conference. p.m. CST) to the NCIP Coordinator. NCIP will present the winner with a plaque and help promote the Founders Award winner as a Nomination Process model for other communities to follow. Governmental entities must complete a Founders Award Nomination Form and

16 FOUNDERS AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Deadline: Submit by August 31, 2005

Name of Project or Program: ______Governmental Entities Involved: ______Nominated by: ______(Organization or Governmental Entity) Contact Person: ______Address: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______

1. Project or Program Description (10 points) Briefly explain how the project was planned and implemented. Explain how the project exemplifies intergovernmental collaboration. Describe the development of governmental partnerships and how the partners worked together to achieve a common purpose.

2. Significance (15 points) Describe how the project or program addresses an important public concern. Describe the community’s involvement in reaching a solution.

3. Cost and Resource Effectiveness (30 points) Describe how the project or program has reduced costs and/or used resources more effectively, with special emphasis given to property tax reduction. What is the documented cost savings as a result of collaboration?

4. Impact and Effectiveness (30 points) How effective was the project? How has the project or program substantially improved productivity and services? Did the project make significant progress toward its intended goals? Describe the measurements used to determine success.

5. Innovation (15 points) Does the project or program involve a fresh approach to a significant problem? To what degree does the project demonstrate a leap of creativity (for example, did the project incorporate the novel with more familiar elements, reshape the role or routines of governments, or result in policy departures)? GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Returning to NCIP in 2005 is the Good and/or a photo reflecting the assistance received Neighbor Award! Good Neighbor Awards are by the community. given to communities or regions that provide technical assistance, support and encouragement Nomination Process to neighboring communities or regions. For To nominate a community for a Good Neighbor example, a NCIP community might help another Award, complete a Good Neighbor Award community during its first year of participation Nomination Form. in the program. Or a community might help another community that has experienced Format flooding or other natural disasters. A Include all requested information and answer all community or multi-community must be questions on the nomination form. Five pages nominated by another NCIP participant. maximum, 12-point or larger font, one inch or larger margins, and no covers allowed. Two Intent To Enter copies of the nomination form are required. In Participants must submit an Intent to Enter addition, please submit a photo of the Form and Government Resolution by June 1, community you are nominating and/or a photo 2005. reflecting the assistance received by the community. Award Deadline Good Neighbor Award nominations must be State Recognition postmarked (or hand-delivered by 5 p.m., Good Neighbor Award nominations with merit Central Time) by September 9, 2005, to the are recognized at the NCIP Awards Banquet in NCIP Coordinator. In addition, please submit a November 2005. Plaques are presented to the photo of the community you are nominating award winners.

Submit by September 9, 2005

Community Being Nominated ______Address ______Day Phone ______Eve. Phone ______E-mail ______

Nominated by Community ______Contact Person ______Address ______Day Phone ______Eve. Phone ______E-mail ______

1. How has this community assisted your community?

2. Please give the reasons for nominating this community:

YOUTH LEADERSHIP FOR OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS Cash Awards!

The Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community Service Award is designed to recognize youth in NCIP participating communities who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership skills through participation in community service as volunteers.

Intent to Enter To enter this award program, the participating Judging Criteria NCIP community must submit the Intent to Involvement (33 points) Enter Form and Government Resolution by Leadership (33 points) June 1, 2005. Impact/Letters of Support (34 points)

Award Nomination Deadline Judging Process Youth Leadership Award nominations must be A panel of judges will be directed to select one postmarked (or hand-delivered by 5 p.m., youth recipient for an award in each NCIP CST) by September 9, 2005, to the NCIP population category. Population categories are Coordinator. determined after all NCIP award nominations are submitted. Nomination Process Any youth who is affiliated with a local NCIP Format participating community is eligible to be Each nomination is limited to three pages (not nominated for award recognition. Nominees including letters of support.) The questions on must have exhibited unique leadership qualities the nomination form are to be addressed in that have positively impacted the community. narrative form and may also be addressed Youth nominees may have participated in through supporting documentation, such as school organizations, however community news articles and photos. Nominations must be service outside of school is strongly encouraged. typed using an 11-point or larger font and one inch or larger margins. Include two letters of Individual youth may be nominated by fellow support as an attachment to the nomination youth or adult sponsors. Each NCIP form. Each letter of support is limited to one participating community may nominate a page. maximum of two youth per community. Participating communities are those No covers or folders are allowed. Staple each communities that have submitted the Intent to copy in the upper left-hand corner. Submit one Enter Form and Government Resolution, and are original and three copies of each youth award actively engaged in the NCIP process. nomination. Submit two color photos for each Communities are encouraged to develop a local youth nominated (in addition to supporting selection process in which to determine youth to documentation). be nominated on behalf of the community. State Recognition (Note: Youth who have previously won award Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community recognition in this category may not be Service Awards will be announced in November nominated again). 2005 at the NCIP Awards Banquet following the Community Quest Conference. A plaque and $250 cash award will be awarded to one winner in each population class. YOUTH LEADERSHIP FOR OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Deadline: Submit by September 9, 2005

Name of Youth Nominated: ______Affiliated NCIP Community: ______Population: ______Address of Nominee: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______Age of Nominee at the Time of Nomination: ______

Nominated by: Name ______Community/Organization ______Address ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______

1. What organizations and/or associations has the youth nominee been involved in? Please include length of service for each organization (in addition to school organizations, include other affiliations outside of school activities).

2. Describe how the youth nominee has shown leadership skills in the community. How has the youth nominee motivated and encouraged other youth to join or participate in their community?

3. Describe actions taken by the youth nominee to initiate, develop, or lead projects in the community (list and describe specific projects and activities).

4. What impact has the youth nominee’s involvement had on the community?

5. **Include two one-page letters of support to attest to the youth nominee’s leadership and involvement in community service.

** The required letters of support are to be submitted as attachments and are not part of the three-page maximum. Letters of support are limited to one page each. In addition, include two photographs of the nominated youth. MARILYN RISTINE LEADERSHIP AWARD NOMINATION FORM AND DETAILS

In 1993, the Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award was created to memorialize an outstanding community volunteer. Long-time Gothenburg resident, Marilyn Ristine (1928-1992), was an outstanding community leader who had a gift for involving others.

Nominees must be unpaid NCIP volunteers who have served a minimum 10 years in NCIP. The person should have developed or brought to the organization outstanding leadership that positively affected the local CIP and community. The nominee may be someone who has retired from the committee.

Award Deadline Marilyn Ristine Leadership Award nominations must be postmarked (or hand-delivered by 5 p.m. CST) to the NCIP Coordinator by September 9, 2005.

Format Nominations are limited to five pages using an 11-point or larger font and one inch or larger margins. Submit five copies of the nomination and two additional photos of the nominated person.

Judging and Recognition The Ristine family will review all nominations and select one recipient for the prestigious recognition. The winner will be announced in November at the NCIP Awards Banquet following the Community Quest Conference. A special plaque is presented to the award winner.

Name of Nominee: ______Address/City/State/Zip Code: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______

Nominated by Name: ______Organization: ______Address/City/State/Zip Code: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______E-mail: ______

Address the following questions in narrative form:

1. How many years has the nominee served in NCIP? 19_____ to ______.

2. How has the nominee shown leadership in NCIP?

3. How has the nominee shown leadership in thecommunity other than through NCIP?

4. What organizations and associations has the nominee been involved in? What offices has he/she held?

5. How has the nominee demonstrated being a “good neighbor” in community improvement? SUSTAINING NCIP COMMUNITY FORM

Deadline: Submit by June 1, 2005

The Sustaining NCIP Community designation is for communities that want to remain part of the NCIP process and to continue with improvement activities, but do not have completed projects to enter for awards consideration. Entrants may be completing projects and/or starting new projects.

To be considered a Sustaining NCIP Community, please submit the form below to address ongoing activities and request assistance where needed. Sustaining NCIP Communities are not involved in a judging process.

Sustaining NCIP Community forms must be submitted by June 1, 2005. The Intent to Enter Form and Government Resolutions are not required to become a NCIP Sustaining Community.

Member participants may sign up for two consecutive years and are then encouraged to enter a Special Project Award or Blueprint for Success Award to get back into the NCIP Participation Process.

Community or Multi-Community: ______Contact Person: ______Mailing Address: ______Day Phone: ______Eve. Phone: ______Fax: ______E-mail:______

Summary of Activities: ______Areas needing assistance: ______

 We would like the NCIP Coordinator to visit our community.  First Year Sustaining  2nd Consecutive Year Sustaining NCIP BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS AWARD NOMINATION CHECKLIST

Report Book Submission Checklist:

 The Blueprint for Success Award Nomination is submitted in a 3-ring binder

 A Table of Contents with consecutively numbered pages is included

 The Table of Contents identifies projects also being nominated for special award

 Part I is complete and not more than five (5) pages, including supporting documentation

 Part II: No more than five (5) projects are submitted, each no longer than five (5) pages

 Part II: Projects nominated for special awards are noted on the nomination form

 Part III is complete and not more than five (5) pages, including supporting documentation

 Three (3) additional copies of each special award nomination are submitted

 Two (2) color photos for each special award nomination are submitted

 Two (2) color photos that represent overall community accomplishments are submitted

 The Appendix includes (if applicable) Tabulated Survey Results

 The Appendix includes (if applicable) a Community Inventory (LOIS or NEDI)

 The Appendix does NOT include any additional items other than the survey and inventory

 The compiled Report Book is no larger than: 5 pages—Part I 25 pages—Part II 5 pages—Part III ------Total of not more than 35 pages + one Table of Contents and Appendix

 Report Book is postmarked or delivered to the NCIP Coordinator by 5 p.m. CST, August 31, 2005

*NOTE: Extra pages will not be evaluated and will be returned to the community

Report Books will be available for communities to pick up at the NCIP Awards Banquet. Any notebooks not picked up will be mailed to the NCIP Community Chair. NCIP BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS AWARD Preparing for the NCIP judges visit to the community

Two or three NCIP judges and one driver will visit each community submitting a Community Development Award Nomination. Judges will be in the community for 1 hour and 45 minutes, of which 15 minutes is allotted for taking photographs. Communities should prepare for a 1 hour and 30 minute presentation.

Helpful Hints To Make The Most Of Your Judges Visit

Have Fun - Be Creative: It is important to cover the criteria, but have fun with it! Show off your community pride and excitement. Make your presentation uniquely yours. Highlight was makes your community a winner!

Stick to the Timeline: The 1 hour and 45 minute time frame is strictly adhered to. Set time limits for presenters and practice before the visit takes place.

Address the Criteria: Address all of the judging criteria in your presentation, including the community planning and leadership development component and project accomplishments.

Introductions: Give everyone attending, including judges, the selected leader and community volunteers, a chance to introduce themselves. (Judges and escorts will wear nametags.)

Attendance at the Visit: Get everyone involved! Invite community volunteers who have assisted with projects, local government leaders, business leaders, youth leaders and volunteers, other civic organizations, etc.

Presentation of Criteria: The judges will review Community Report Books before they arrive. Communities should still address the information and criteria that was submitted in the Report Book. Prepare an agenda to determine what order information will be presented to the judges. Leave time at the end of the visit for judges to ask questions.

Community Tour: A community tour is recommended, but not required. Judges enjoy seeing the communities they are judging! Tours must be scheduled within the timeframe allowed for the visit. Tour guides should be aware of the time limit. Do not keep the judges longer than the time allowed.

Snacks/Gifts: Snacks and nominal gifts are optional and at the discretion of the community. Gifts that have a value greater than $5 will not be accepted.

Set-Up: If possible, provide a table and chairs for the judges so they can sit and take notes and have a place for items they have with them during the community presentation. Keep the presentation lively, interesting, positive, and fun!

Location: Mark your meeting location so that judges can identify it when they pull into town. Signs and/or balloons identifying the meeting location is one suggestion.

If you have any questions concerning the site visit, please contact NCIP staff toll-free at: (800) 426-6505, or e-mail: [email protected]. NCIP AMBASSADORS

Ainsworth ! ! Bassett

Hyannis! Petersburg !

Kimball Mead ! ! York ! ! Farnam Kearney Goehner ! ! Maywood ! ! Western Region Eustis Tecumseh !

Central Region Eastern Region

Western Region Central Region Northeast Region Southeast Region Mike Davis, Hyannis Doyle Howitt, Kearney Bernie Cunningham, Norene Fitzgerald, York PO Box 294 UNK Communications Ctr. Petersburg York Co. Develop. Corp. Hyannis, NE 69350 Kearney, NE 68849 PO Box 131 116 S. Ave. Suite 1 (308) 458-2202 wk (308) 865-8212 Petersburg, NE 68652 York, NE 68467 (308) 458-2833 hm [email protected] (402) 386-5368 (402) 362-3333 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Dan Widick Gerry Osborn, Ainsworth Bill Sanger, Bassett Pat Hannan, Mead 1002 Main St. 722 N. Ash PO Box 387 PO Box 9 Farnam, NE 69029 Ainsworth, NE 69210 Bassett, NE 68714 Mead, NE 68041 (308) 486-3991 wk (402) 387-2202 (402) 684-3935 (402) 636-2330 (308) 569-2333 hm [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Sandy Lukassen, Kimball Howard McNiff, Cook Rt. 1, Box 43B The NCIP Ambassadors Program was PO Box 626 Kimball, NE 69145 created to help educate communities about Tecumseh, NE 68450 (308) 235-3387 wk (402) 335-3347 the benefits of NCIP; to explain the (308) 235-2567 hm [email protected] [email protected] participation process and resources needed to participate; and to help new Judy Brockmeyer, Eustis communities entering NCIP through all Cal Williams, Goehner PO Box 43 the steps of participation. Ambassadors PO Box 146 Eustis, NE 69028 are grassroots volunteers who provide Goehner, NE 68364 (308) 486-5600 mentoring at the community level under (402) 523-4725 [email protected] the guidance of the NCIP Coordinator. [email protected] They share their talents, experience, and, Lynne Wilson, Maywood most valuable of all, their time. Benefiting PO Box 67 communities are encouraged to donate Maywood, NE 69038 (308) 362-4282 mileage or pay for out-of-pocket expenses.

NCIP ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The NCIP Advisory Committee members are jointly appointed by the president of the University of Nebraska and director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. The committee includes representatives for communities of various population categories, multi-communities, urban neighborhoods, congressional districts, NCIP Partnership, NCIP sponsors, League of Nebraska Municipalities and the Nebraska Association of County Officials. The NCIP Advisory Committee guides and oversees the development of NCIP. The positive input from committee members and program staff has led to the continued improvement and expansion of the program.

NCIP PARTNERSHIP COMMUNITIES WITH THIRD CONGRESSIONAL Doyle Howitt, Chair POPULATION 1,501-3500 DISTRICT UNK Communications Center Cathy Healey Mike Davis Kearney, NE 68849 1205 20th St. PO Box 294 (308) 865-8212 Gothenburg, NE 69138 Hyannis, NE 69350 E-mail: [email protected] (308) 537-2106 (308) 458-2202 wk E-mail: [email protected] (308) 458-2833 hm COMMUNITIES WITH E-mail: [email protected] POPULATION UNDER COMMUNITIES WITH 300 POPULATION 3,501- URBAN COMMUNITIES - Cal Williams 50,000 OMAHA PO Box 146 Rosalee Hoff Karen Bluvas Goehner, NE 68364 508 East 4th St. 824 Worthington (402) 523-4725 Alliance, NE 69301 Omaha, NE 68108 E-mail: [email protected] (308) 762-1910 wk (402) 341-1880 wk (308) 762-2320 hm (402) 341-7193 hm COMMUNITIES WITH [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] POPULATION 301-600 Pamala Maynard MULTI-COMMUNITIES URBAN COMMUNITIES - PO Box 97 Norene Fitzgerald LINCOLN Edgar, NE 68935 York County Development Corp. Hal Allen (402) 225-2351 wk 116 S. Ave. Suite 1 2320 Sheridan Blvd. (402) 224-4645 hm York, NE 68467 Lincoln, NE 68502 [email protected] (402) 362-3333 (402) 435-0254 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] COMMUNITIES WITH POPULATION 601-1,000 FIRST CONGRESSIONAL SPONSORS Darla Hopwood DISTRICT Micki Schmidt PO Box 247 Jean Kolterman Glenwood Telephone Shelby, NE 68662 1059 Plainview Ave. PO Box 97 (402) 527-5198 PO Box 7 Blue Hill, NE 68930 E-mail: [email protected] Seward, NE 68434 (402) 756-4638 (402) 643-3803 E-mail: [email protected] COMMUNITIES WITH E-mail: [email protected] POPULATION 1,001- LEAGUE OF NEBRASKA 1,500 SECOND CONGRESSIONAL MUNICIPALITIES Terri Holtzen DISTRICT Lynn Rex RR 2, Box 82 Kathy Purcell 1335 L St. Stromsburg, NE 68666 501 Olsen Drive, Suite 4 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 764-2371 Papillion, NE 68046 (402) 476-2829 E-mail: (402) 339-3050 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] NEBRASKA ASSOC. OF COUNTY OFFICIALS Larry Dix, Executive Director 625 S. 14th St., Suite A Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 434-5660 E-mail: [email protected] 2004 NCIP Community Development Award Recipients

CLASS I (1-600 pop) CLASS IV (2001-7000 pop) 1st – Eustis 1st – Gothenburg 2nd – Farnam 2nd – Seward 3rd – Edgar 3rd – Aurora

CLASS II (601-1250 pop) CLASS V (7001 & Over pop) 1st – Bassett 1st – Alliance 2nd – Stuart 2nd – North Platte 3rd – Atkinson 3rd – South Sioux City

CLASS III (1251-2000 pop) CLASS VI (Multi-Community) 1st – Hartington 1st – Hayes County 2nd – Ravenna 2nd – Pawnee County 3rd – Wisner 3rd – Loup Basin Region

2004 NCIP Special Award Recipients

Volunteer and Leadership Development Class I (Tie): Edgar – EdgarFest 2004 Goehner – Tapping Into Our Greatest Resources – Our People Class II: Atkinson – Operation Eyesore Class III: Hartington – Youth in Civic Governance – Hartington LEAP Class V: South Sioux City – Siouxland Immigrant Leadership Training Class VI: Loup Basin Region – Grant Writers 101 Workshop

Youth Involvement and Leadership Development Class I: Farnam – YCIP Activities Class II: Stuart – Operation Cleanup Class III: Ainsworth – Long Pine Hiking Trail Class IV: Sidney – FCCLA Community Service and Operation Duct Tape Class V: North Platte – Community Connections S.W.A.T. Class VI: Cedar County – Cedar County FFA – Community Services

Public Works, Facilities, Services, and Planning Class I: Farnam – Downtown Improvements Class II: Burwell – Celebrate Burwell “Paving a Bright & Beautiful Future" Class III: Hebron – Operation Cool Down Class IV: Gothenburg – Built on a Foundation of Education Class V: Grand Island – Downtown Alleyway Project Class VI: Pawnee County – Pawnee County RW #1

Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Class I: Bancroft – Enhance Appearance and Function of City Park Class II: Laurel – City Park Playground Equipment Class VI: Cuming County – Cuming County Fairgrounds

2004 NCIP Special Award Recipients, cont… Environmental Projects & Awareness Class I: Edgar – Scrap Tire Clean-Up for Clay County Class II: Atkinson – Hazardous Waste Collection Class V: Scottsbluff – Great American Cleanup Event Class VI: Loup Basin Region – Cedar River Monitoring and Cleanup Teams

Community Services Class I: Alexandria – Beautification of the Community Center Class II: Stromsburg – The Plaza Addition to the Midwest Covenant Home Class III: Ravenna – Building Blocks Child Care and Learning Center Class IV: St. Paul – Habitat for Humanity Class V: Alliance – Dental Day VI Class VI: Hayes County – Hayes Center Public School Playground

Arts and Humanities Class I: Nelson – Nelson Community Club Variety Show Class II: Bassett – Mural Class III: Hartington – Lewis and Clark Heritage Fair Class IV: Kimball – Beautification Through Art Class V: Nebraska City – Jazz Concert by the Rob Scheps/ Zack Brock Quintet Class VI: Hayes County – Grand Duke Alexis Rendezvous

Business Assistance & Development Class I: Petersburg – Economic Development for Petersburg Class II: Atkinson – Hometown Help Class IV: Central City – Platte Valley Fuel Ethanol Plant Class V: Grand Island – South Locust Renewal

Tourism Promotion & Development Class I: Diller – “Diller Welcomes You” Sign Class II: Bassett – Welcome, Sign, Kiosk, and Banners Class III: Ravenna – Ravenna Tractor Puller, Inc. Class IV: Gothenburg – Shining Light Celebration Class V: Alliance – Route 385 Cruisers “Thunder on the Prairie” Classic Car Show Class VI (Tie): Loup Basin Region – Loup Basin Birding Promotional Brochure Cedar & Knox County – Shannon Trail Promotion

Youth Leadership for Outstanding Community Service (YLOCS) Class I: John Thayer - Eustis Class II: Justine Olberding - Stuart Class III: Nathan Ritz - Ravenna Class IV: Shane Max - Gothenburg Class V: Angie Heuangdetxomphonh – South Sioux City Class VI: Amber Neverve – Hayes County

Marilyn Ristine Award: Fredene Pietsch - Kimball Founder’s Award: North Platte – Recycling Center Otto Hoiberg Award (Top Overall Community): Bassett