Teresa Hoffman, senior communications associate, [email protected], 402.687.2100, ext. 1012
LYONS, NEBRASKA – The Center for Rural Affairs has chosen Anna Zeleny, of Oakland, to receive its 2021 Citizenship Award.
The Citizenship Award is given to an individual or individuals who actively participate in the civic process for creating public policy, and who work closely with the Center to advance public policies that strengthen family farms, ranches, and rural communities.
Zeleny, an employee of the Oakland Processing Plant, was a strong advocate for Legislative Bill (LB) 324, testifying in support of it before the Nebraska Legislature’s Agriculture Committee. She also wrote a Midlands Voices article for the Omaha World-Herald, and was interviewed by Public News Service. The bill was unanimously approved by the Legislature.
“The COVID-19 pandemic challenged the Oakland Processing Plant and other processors across the country,” said Johnathan Hladik, policy director for the Center. “Having Anna step up to testify and share her story allowed lawmakers to hear firsthand what those challenges are and how LB 324 would assist them.”
Since passage, Zeleny remains a key partner as programs created under the bill are being implemented.
No award ceremony will be held this year because of the pandemic.
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