LINCOLN, NEB. (April 13, 2005)--Spend May 9 with the state's top business and community leaders as part of the Nebraska Diplomats' Annual Business and Industry Day. This year's activities will take place at the Fremont Golf Club, 2710 North Somers.

A round of golf is planned for 8 a.m. Lunch will get underway at 11:30 a.m., with opening remarks from Governor Dave Heineman, including information about the new Nebraska Economic Development Certified Community Program, and from University of Nebraska-Lincoln President J.B. Milliken, who will talk about "A New Level of Engagement with the University System."

At 1:30 p.m., Fremont Mayor Skip Edwards will welcome participants, and Diplomats President Mike Baldino will present the President's Business Cornerstone Awards.

A 2:30 p.m. panel will focus on "Driving Economic Development". Panelists include David Simmons, Fremont National Bank & Trust and member of the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board, Richard Baier, director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Fremont City Manager Randy Reyzlik, and Kevin Wilkins, Greater Fremont Development Council.

Following the panel discussion, participants can preview a computer simulation that illustrates the broad importance of factoring transportation needs into the economic development quotient, and more specifically, how Fremont will look when connected to three major highways.

At 3:15 p.m., John Craig, director of the Nebraska Department of Roads (DOR), will present a broad overview of transportation trends in Nebraska, and talk about the Nebraska Transportation Institute (a joint university--DOR industry initiative). A reception will be held at 4 p.m. on the Fremont Dinner Train.

For information, contact Lori Shaal at 402-471-4592, or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it