Nebraska is preparing to showcase its history, innovation, and businesses on the national stage as part of the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C. Governor Jim Pillen says the event, which celebrates America’s 250th birthday, will give Nebraska the opportunity to highlight the people, industries, and traditions that make the state unique.
Pillen says Nebraska’s pavilion will feature exhibits focusing on the state’s culture, agriculture, transportation, energy, and business innovation. He noted Nebraska’s ties to the transcontinental railroad, public power system, and agricultural leadership as key parts of the state’s story.
Among the major partners participating is Union Pacific Railroad. Executive Vice President Eric Gehringer says the company will feature a replica of the historic Golden Spike that marked the completion of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. Visitors will also have the chance to operate a train simulator and learn about the railroad’s role in connecting the country.
Gehringer says Union Pacific’s future plans include building a coast-to-coast rail network that could shift millions of truck shipments from highways to rail while improving supply chain efficiency. Werner Enterprises will also be featured at the Nebraska pavilion. Company President Nathan Meisgeier says the Omaha-based transportation company is proud to represent Nebraska during the national celebration.
The company is marking its 70th anniversary this year and plans to highlight the state’s work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Energy company Tenaska is another Nebraska partner taking part in the event. Vice President Dilete Marengo says the Omaha-based company is proud to showcase Nebraska values and the contributions of Midwest businesses that help power communities across the nation.
During Monday afternoon’s announcement for Nebraska’s participation in the Great American State Fair, representatives from Valley Irrigation and its parent company, Lindsay Corporation, announced plans for an interactive “Smart Farm” exhibit at Nebraska’s pavilion. The display will allow visitors to explore how connected equipment and precision irrigation technology help farmers apply the right amount of water at the right time and place.
Valley officials say the exhibit will showcase Nebraska-made technology that helps conserve resources while increasing food, fiber and fuel production. The event also highlighted Boys Town’s participation in the Nebraska pavilion.
Speaking at a news conference announcing the state’s participation, Boys Town President and CEO Rod Kempkes said Father Edward Flanagan chose Nebraska as the home for Boys Town in 1917 because of the state’s strong values of faith, family, community, and service. Kemp says Boys Town now serves hundreds of thousands of children and families nationwide and will showcase both its history and current work, including research conducted at Boys Town National Research Hospital.
Nebraska Public Power District Vice President Courtney Dentlinger says the state’s unique public power system will also be featured. Dentlinger says Nebraska remains the nation’s only all-public-power state, providing reliable electricity at some of the lowest rates in the country while helping attract new business and economic growth.
Governor Jim Pillen says the fair will give Nebraska an opportunity to share the people, organizations, and innovations that make the state unique as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday. Nebraska’s exhibits will be featured from June 25-July 10.