{"id":39124,"date":"2022-08-23T08:43:22","date_gmt":"2022-08-23T13:43:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nebraskadem.wpenginepowered.com\/?page_id=39124"},"modified":"2025-11-08T11:00:05","modified_gmt":"2025-11-08T17:00:05","slug":"nelsongala","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nebraskademocrats.org\/vi\/nelsongala\/","title":{"rendered":"\u0110\u00eam ti\u1ec7c Ben Nelson"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Big Blue Weekend, Nov. 7-8, 2025
at the Hilton Omaha<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Join us for our Big Blue Weekend where we celebrate Democrats–from the Ben Nelson Gala, to our VendorFest candidate training and our quarterly SCC meeting! Lots of fun and getting ready for the 26 elections!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAward Winners<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWatch President Biden's Address Again<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVendorFest Candidate Training, Nov. 8<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Ben Nelson Gala Speakers<\/h2>

Speakers:<\/b>\u00a0President Joe Biden, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear & January 6th Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn<\/p>

Emcee:<\/b> Omaha Mayor John Ewing, Jr.<\/p>

More about the Gala<\/strong><\/p>

Each year the Nebraska Democratic Party celebrates the elected officials, candidates, party leaders and grassroots volunteers that build our party.<\/span><\/p>

For about two decades, the annual event was called the Morrison Exon fundraiser in honor of Gov. Frank Morrison and\u00a0 Sen. Jim Exon.<\/p>

In 2022, the NDP decided it was time to honor one of our current party titans — Sen. Ben Nelson — and re-named the annual event the Nelson Gala.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Additionally, we are renaming various awards after leaders who shaped our party.<\/span><\/p>

The annual fundraiser always includes great Nebraska and national speakers. Past speakers included Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Senator Jeff Merkley, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Cori Bush and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Rep. Grace Meng, Rep. Justin J. Pearson, and Gov. Tim Walz.<\/span><\/p>

About Nelson<\/b><\/h3>

A U.S. Senator from 2001 to 2013 and governor from 1991-99. Nelson founded the CHIP program ensuring kids in our state had access to health insurance. A champion for the environment and property rights, Nelson denied a nuclear waste dump from being built in Boyd County.<\/span><\/p>

Award Descriptions<\/b><\/h2>

In both 2018 and in 2022, the NDP re-named awards to honor Democratic leaders. Chair Jane Kleeb and the leadership team believed it was critical we honor Nebraska leaders in naming our awards. Note that recipients of past awards are still listed below with the name of the award they received that year.<\/span><\/p>

Preston Love Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Love Award is presented to volunteers who personifies the spirit of the Nebraska Democratic Party. The award is given to an individual who is tireless in supporting the Nebraska Democratic Party, county parties and candidates\u2019 campaigns. An award is given to one volunteer per Congressional District.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Preston Love Jr.,<\/span> the NDP\u2019s former Vice Chair, is a community advocate who served as Jesse Jackson’s campaign manager during the 1984 Democratic primaries. He is the first black person to receive the support of a major political party for U.S. Senate in Nebraska, as he was endorsed by the NDP\u2019s for the 2020 senate election in Nebraska, challenging incumbent Sen. Ben Sasse. For years, he has <\/span>taken hundreds of young people and adults on tours of civil rights landmarks in the south through his Black Votes Matter, Black History tours.<\/span><\/p>

Schimek Quirk Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Schimek Quirk Award is presented to a county party volunteer who works tirelessly to promote the activities and values of the Democratic Party in their county. The award winners demonstrate a dedication to service, integrity, the organizing of their county party infrastructure, and support for local Democratic candidates.<\/span><\/p>

DiAnna Schimek, was chair of the NDP from 1980 to 1984. She, was elected in 1988 to represent the 27th Nebraska legislative district and re-elected in 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004. She sat on the Business and Labor and Urban Affairs committees as well as the Committee on Committees and chaired the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.<\/span> Schimek was largely responsible for the enactment of Nebraska’s method of apportioning electoral votes in presidential elections by congressional district. <\/span>In 2011, Schimek was appointed to replace Jane Snyder, who resigned for health reasons, on the Lincoln City Council. She took her seat on October 10, 2011 to represent one of the at-large seats. She did not seek reelection in 2013.<\/span><\/p>

Deb Quirk knew the importance of local campaigns and gained her first experience in a Hastings City Council race. She met her husband John when he was working on the Jimmy Carter presidential campaign. While the family business is the Quirk Cattle Company, politics is also family business. Deb and John were a force in the state Democratic Party as well as in Adams County and CD3. Deb was elected state party chair and served from 1995-1998. Even after serving as chair, Deb has remained active in both local and NDP party and candidate activities. Always with attention to detail and strategic planning, making sure resolutions and motions were in proper form, Deb has always been a champion for rural Nebraska and assured rural counties and rural voters matter within the party structure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Sunshine Award is presented to individuals who are dedicated to improving both the Nebraska Democratic Party and their community as an ally to our Democratic values. The award is open to any ally working or volunteering in the community and does not have to be serving in a Democratic party role.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

This award is given in honor of Carrie Howard, sister of Sen. Sara Howard and daughter of Sen. Gwen Howard.<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Anne Boyle Award is presented to a young person under 36 (using the age criteria of the NYD & Young Democrats of America) for their exceptional volunteer activities and participation within the Nebraska Young Democrats organization and the state party.\u00a0<\/p>

Commissioner Anne Boyle was the first woman to serve on the Public Service Commission and served three six-year terms beginning in 1996. Boyle was our state party chair from 1998 to 2001. Boyle was committed to lifting young people and mentoring fellow Democrats. Commissioner Boyle passed away in 2019.<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Mike Fahey Award is presented to a Block Captain who goes above and beyond in their canvassing efforts and talking to their neighbors.<\/span><\/p>

Mike<\/span> Fahey took office as mayor of Omaha in 2001 and was re-elected in 2005. He was a member of the Mayors Against Illegal Guns Coalition, an effort to push for gun reform at the local level. He was responsible for changing the landscape of the city with new development and a revitalized commitment to neighborhoods. At the end of Fahey’s term in 2009, the city of Omaha named a section of Webster Street downtown, between 10th and 17th streets, in his honor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Brad Ashford Award\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

The Brad Ashford Award is presented to a current State Senator who shows conviction, support for our party\u2019s platform and leadership in the Unicameral.<\/span><\/p>

Brad<\/span> Ashford served in the Nebraska Legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives from Nebraska\u2019s 2nd Congressional District. He served in the Legislature from 1987 to 1995, and returned to the Legislature in 2007 to 2015. Brad Ashford defeated 16-year incumbent Rep. Lee Terry to proudly serve the famous \u201cblue dot\u201d of Nebraska. Brad Ashford passed away in 2022 and <\/span>dedicated years of his life to our state and country to better the lives of all Americans.<\/p>

State Party Chair Award<\/b><\/h3>

The State Party Chair Award is presented to a person or group chosen by the NDP Chair.<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award is the highest honor given by the Nebraska Democratic Party. The award is presented to a former or current elected county party officer, state party officer or an elected official who are dedicated to the principles of the Nebraska Democratic Party and who have contributed above and beyond the call of duty to the Nebraska Democratic Party along with local issues that impact the state and national level. <\/span>
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<\/span>Frank LaMere<\/span><\/a> was the first Native American to serve as a Democratic National Committee member and he founded both the state and national Native American caucuses. LaMere was the longest-serving Native American on the DNC. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention seven consecutive times from 1988 to 2012. LaMere also served as the NDP\u2019s first associate chair. LaMere dedicated his life to social justice and helped close down illegal beer sales at Whiteclay, NE, just across the border from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.<\/span><\/p>

Past Award Recipients<\/b><\/h2>

2024 Award Winners<\/span><\/span><\/h1>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/span>\u00a0Jayden Speed<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/span>\u00a0Luke Peterson<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/span>\u00a0MajieAhna Winfrey<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/span>\u00a0Wes Jensen<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/span>\u00a0Shannon Graves<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/span>\u00a0Becky Potmesil<\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,<\/span>\u00a0Washington County Chair Jo-El Chiles<\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,<\/span>\u00a0Ross Manhart<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award,<\/span>\u00a0President Henry Cline<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/span>\u00a0Darin Tompkins<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/span>\u00a0Michelle Bates<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/span>\u00a0Senator Jen Day<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0DNC Chair Jaime Harrison<\/span>
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Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0<\/span>ASDC President Ken Martin<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Justin Kemerling<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Adam Casey<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Anna Oyer<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Jake Welche<\/p>

2023<\/b><\/h3>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/b> Liz Tompkins<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/b> John Fox<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/b> Nate Helzer<\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,<\/b> Dawson County Chair Ann Trullinger<\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,<\/b> Angie Lauritsen<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award, <\/b>President Larissa Schultz<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/b> Deanna Pulse<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/b> Senator John Cavanaugh<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,<\/b> DNC Committeewoman Charlene Ligon<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/b> Senators Cavanaugh, Hunt, Fredrickson and Planned Parenthood, I Be Black Girl, OutNebraska<\/p>

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2022<\/b><\/h3>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,\u00a0<\/strong>Hannah Wroblewski<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,\u00a0<\/strong>Edward T. Ventura<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,\u00a0<\/strong>Meghan Rivera<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,\u00a0<\/strong>Kay Thomas<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/strong>\u00a0Randy Fair
<\/strong><\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Marthaellen Florence
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Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,\u00a0Medical Marijuana Team
<\/strong>–Sen.Adam Morfeld
–Sen. Anna Wishart
–Crista Eggers
–Daniel Gutman<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Mike Lee<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/strong>Bev White<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/strong>\u00a0Sen. Wendy DeBoer<\/p>

State Party Chair Kleeb Award,<\/strong>\u00a0the late Seth Rich<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Patty Zieg\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/div>

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2021\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1 Volunteer Award: <\/b>Chris McCoy<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2 Volunteer Award: <\/b>Dulce Sherman<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3 Volunteer Award:<\/b> Marci Docekal\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party Award:<\/b> Terry Sigler<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award:<\/b> Meg Mikolajczyk<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award: <\/b>Ben Cass<\/span><\/p>

State Senator Courage Award:<\/b> Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh<\/span><\/p>

State Party Chair Kleeb Award:<\/b> State AFL-CIO President Sue Martin<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award:<\/b> Preston Love, Jr.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

2020<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD1:<\/b> Emma Craig<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD2:<\/b> Women Who Run, Denise Blaya Powell + Leanne Prewitt<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD3:<\/b> Chair Kris Kinzie<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party Volunteer Award:<\/b> Chair Janet Chung<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award:<\/b> Yolanda Chavez Nuncio<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award:<\/b> James Michael Bowers<\/span><\/p>

State Senator Courage Award:<\/b> Senator Carol Blood<\/span><\/p>

State Party Chair Award:<\/b> Senator Justin Wayne; Board Member Kimara Snipe; Black Caucus Chair Precious McKesson; Jasmine Harris; Alisha Shelton<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award:<\/b> Trevor Fitzgerald<\/span><\/p>

2019<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1: <\/b>Roger Eschliman<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Lilia Franciscony<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Haley Mazour<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party:<\/b> Judy Vohland<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine:<\/b> Lisa Fricke<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle:<\/b> Caleb Rohrer<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle:<\/b> Krystal Fox<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> The Women of CD1 \u2013 Pastor Janet Banks, Adelle Burk, Sydney Rae Butler, Janet Chung, Marthaellen Florence, Mary Harding, Jessica McClure, Megan Mikolajczyk, Michele Tilley, Christa Yoakum, Laurie Martinez<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Patty Pansing Brooks<\/span><\/p>

2018<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Shirl Mora James<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Scott Williams<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Tom Genung and Doc Moore<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Zachary Mora James<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Senator Bob Kerrey<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Brian Mikkelsen<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Lauren Williams<\/span><\/p>

Morrison Exon:<\/b> Delmer Adam<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Big Mama\u2019s Kitchen<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Tony Vargas<\/span><\/p>

2017<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Mike Pittz<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Rachel Huggins<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Terry Wegner<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Meg Mandy<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Patsy Koch-Johns Volunteers\u2013Inonge Kasaji, Kaylie Schnittker-Hogan, Cooper Christiancy, Brodey Weber, Michael Maly and Maluba Mudundulu<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Mina Davis<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Frank LaMere<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Rick Kolowski<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> John Quirk<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Janet Stewart and Stephanie Matejka<\/span><\/p>

2016<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Tom Havelka<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Susan Tafini<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Paige Hutchinson<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jose Jimenez<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Dennis Crawford<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Paul Hartnett<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Sharlette Schwenninger<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Kathy Moore-Jensen<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

2015<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Ellen Moore<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Ramona Lisa Fricke<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Ismael Valadez<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Meg Mikolajczyk<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Marque Snow<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Tom Tilden<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Dave Newell<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Dave Domina<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Andy Holland<\/span><\/p>

2014<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Marta Nieves<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Bryon Line<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Shaun Baker<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Jeremy Nordquist<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Lacey Merica<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Jim \u201cDoc\u201d Moore<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Bob Kerrey<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Amanda McGill<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Deena Province<\/span><\/p>

2013<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Jon Rehm<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Susan Tafini<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Terry Sigler<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Bob Holmstedt<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Rebekah Caruthers<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Peg O\u2019Dea Lippert<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Jeff Leanna<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Joey Adler<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Ken Mass<\/span><\/p>

2012<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Mary Herres<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Shelisa Minnifield<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Deena Province<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b>\u00a0 Bri McLarty<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b>\u00a0 Lanny Munson<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Benjamin Nelson<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Chuck Hassebrook<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b><\/p>

2011<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Bennie Shobe<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Joe Higgins<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Judy Vohland<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Jim Rogers & Missy Wigley<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Karlee Coleman<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Joan Killingsworth<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Don Eret<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Bill Forsee & Christa Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Jane Raybould<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Mayor Jim Suttle<\/span><\/p>

2010<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Becki Gaston<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Frank Johannsen<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Danielle Conrad<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Crystal Rhoades<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Ted Kessler<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> James Quigley<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Tom Brown<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Jan Osten<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

2009<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Sandi Skorniak<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Mark Fields<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Mike Fahey<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jessica Rathbun<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Kyle Michaelis<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Carol Blood<\/span><\/p>

Special Services to the State:<\/b> John Berge<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Chris Jerram<\/span><\/p>

2008<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Vic Covalt<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Peg O\u2019Dea Lippert<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Carolee Koehn<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Donna Noll<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Don Preister<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Heath Mello<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Vince Powers<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Marion Bahensky<\/span><\/p>

2007<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Rick Carter<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Phyllis Ebey<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3: <\/b>Mike Zgud<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Selma Mesner<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Colleen Seng<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jeremy Nordquist<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Bill Avery<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Duane Jones\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
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\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>

More about the Gala<\/strong><\/h2>

Each year the Nebraska Democratic Party celebrates the elected officials, candidates, party leaders and grassroots volunteers that build our party.<\/span><\/p>

For about two decades, the annual event was called the Morrison Exon fundraiser in honor of Gov. Frank Morrison and\u00a0 Sen. Jim Exon.<\/p>

In 2022, the NDP decided it was time to honor one of our current party titans — Sen. Ben Nelson — and re-named the annual event the Nelson Gala.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Additionally, we are renaming various awards after leaders who shaped our party.<\/span><\/p>

The annual fundraiser always includes great Nebraska and national speakers. Past speakers included Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Senator Jeff Merkley, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Cori Bush and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Rep. Grace Meng, Rep. Justin J. Pearson, and Gov. Tim Walz.<\/span><\/p>

About Nelson<\/b><\/h3>

A U.S. Senator from 2001 to 2013 and governor from 1991-99. Nelson founded the CHIP program ensuring kids in our state had access to health insurance. A champion for the environment and property rights, Nelson denied a nuclear waste dump from being built in Boyd County.<\/span><\/p>

Award Descriptions<\/b><\/h2>

In both 2018 and in 2022, the NDP re-named awards to honor Democratic leaders. Chair Jane Kleeb and the leadership team believed it was critical we honor Nebraska leaders in naming our awards. Note that recipients of past awards are still listed below with the name of the award they received that year.<\/span><\/p>

Preston Love Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Love Award is presented to volunteers who personifies the spirit of the Nebraska Democratic Party. The award is given to an individual who is tireless in supporting the Nebraska Democratic Party, county parties and candidates\u2019 campaigns. An award is given to one volunteer per Congressional District.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Preston Love Jr.,<\/span> the NDP\u2019s former Vice Chair, is a community advocate who served as Jesse Jackson’s campaign manager during the 1984 Democratic primaries. He is the first black person to receive the support of a major political party for U.S. Senate in Nebraska, as he was endorsed by the NDP\u2019s for the 2020 senate election in Nebraska, challenging incumbent Sen. Ben Sasse. For years, he has <\/span>taken hundreds of young people and adults on tours of civil rights landmarks in the south through his Black Votes Matter, Black History tours.<\/span><\/p>

Schimek Quirk Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Schimek Quirk Award is presented to a county party volunteer who works tirelessly to promote the activities and values of the Democratic Party in their county. The award winners demonstrate a dedication to service, integrity, the organizing of their county party infrastructure, and support for local Democratic candidates.<\/span><\/p>

DiAnna Schimek, was chair of the NDP from 1980 to 1984. She, was elected in 1988 to represent the 27th Nebraska legislative district and re-elected in 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004. She sat on the Business and Labor and Urban Affairs committees as well as the Committee on Committees and chaired the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.<\/span> Schimek was largely responsible for the enactment of Nebraska’s method of apportioning electoral votes in presidential elections by congressional district. <\/span>In 2011, Schimek was appointed to replace Jane Snyder, who resigned for health reasons, on the Lincoln City Council. She took her seat on October 10, 2011 to represent one of the at-large seats. She did not seek reelection in 2013.<\/span><\/p>

Deb Quirk knew the importance of local campaigns and gained her first experience in a Hastings City Council race. She met her husband John when he was working on the Jimmy Carter presidential campaign. While the family business is the Quirk Cattle Company, politics is also family business. Deb and John were a force in the state Democratic Party as well as in Adams County and CD3. Deb was elected state party chair and served from 1995-1998. Even after serving as chair, Deb has remained active in both local and NDP party and candidate activities. Always with attention to detail and strategic planning, making sure resolutions and motions were in proper form, Deb has always been a champion for rural Nebraska and assured rural counties and rural voters matter within the party structure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Sunshine Award is presented to individuals who are dedicated to improving both the Nebraska Democratic Party and their community as an ally to our Democratic values. The award is open to any ally working or volunteering in the community and does not have to be serving in a Democratic party role.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

This award is given in honor of Carrie Howard, sister of Sen. Sara Howard and daughter of Sen. Gwen Howard.<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Anne Boyle Award is presented to a young person under 36 (using the age criteria of the NYD & Young Democrats of America) for their exceptional volunteer activities and participation within the Nebraska Young Democrats organization and the state party.\u00a0<\/p>

Commissioner Anne Boyle was the first woman to serve on the Public Service Commission and served three six-year terms beginning in 1996. Boyle was our state party chair from 1998 to 2001. Boyle was committed to lifting young people and mentoring fellow Democrats. Commissioner Boyle passed away in 2019.<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Mike Fahey Award is presented to a Block Captain who goes above and beyond in their canvassing efforts and talking to their neighbors.<\/span><\/p>

Mike<\/span> Fahey took office as mayor of Omaha in 2001 and was re-elected in 2005. He was a member of the Mayors Against Illegal Guns Coalition, an effort to push for gun reform at the local level. He was responsible for changing the landscape of the city with new development and a revitalized commitment to neighborhoods. At the end of Fahey’s term in 2009, the city of Omaha named a section of Webster Street downtown, between 10th and 17th streets, in his honor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Brad Ashford Award\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

The Brad Ashford Award is presented to a current State Senator who shows conviction, support for our party\u2019s platform and leadership in the Unicameral.<\/span><\/p>

Brad<\/span> Ashford served in the Nebraska Legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives from Nebraska\u2019s 2nd Congressional District. He served in the Legislature from 1987 to 1995, and returned to the Legislature in 2007 to 2015. Brad Ashford defeated 16-year incumbent Rep. Lee Terry to proudly serve the famous \u201cblue dot\u201d of Nebraska. Brad Ashford passed away in 2022 and <\/span>dedicated years of his life to our state and country to better the lives of all Americans.<\/p>

State Party Chair Award<\/b><\/h3>

The State Party Chair Award is presented to a person or group chosen by the NDP Chair.<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award is the highest honor given by the Nebraska Democratic Party. The award is presented to a former or current elected county party officer, state party officer or an elected official who are dedicated to the principles of the Nebraska Democratic Party and who have contributed above and beyond the call of duty to the Nebraska Democratic Party along with local issues that impact the state and national level. <\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Frank LaMere<\/span><\/a> was the first Native American to serve as a Democratic National Committee member and he founded both the state and national Native American caucuses. LaMere was the longest-serving Native American on the DNC. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention seven consecutive times from 1988 to 2012. LaMere also served as the NDP\u2019s first associate chair. LaMere dedicated his life to social justice and helped close down illegal beer sales at Whiteclay, NE, just across the border from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.<\/span><\/p>

Past Award Recipients<\/b><\/h2>

2024 Award Winners<\/span><\/span><\/h1>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/span>\u00a0Jayden Speed<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/span>\u00a0Luke Peterson<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/span>\u00a0MajieAhna Winfrey<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/span>\u00a0Wes Jensen<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/span>\u00a0Shannon Graves<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/span>\u00a0Becky Potmesil<\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,<\/span>\u00a0Washington County Chair Jo-El Chiles<\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,<\/span>\u00a0Ross Manhart<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award,<\/span>\u00a0President Henry Cline<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/span>\u00a0Darin Tompkins<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/span>\u00a0Michelle Bates<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/span>\u00a0Senator Jen Day<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0DNC Chair Jaime Harrison<\/span>
<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0<\/span>ASDC President Ken Martin<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Justin Kemerling<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Adam Casey<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Anna Oyer<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Jake Welche<\/p>

2023<\/b><\/h3>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/b> Liz Tompkins<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/b> John Fox<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/b> Nate Helzer<\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,<\/b> Dawson County Chair Ann Trullinger<\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,<\/b> Angie Lauritsen<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award, <\/b>President Larissa Schultz<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/b> Deanna Pulse<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/b> Senator John Cavanaugh<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,<\/b> DNC Committeewoman Charlene Ligon<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/b> Senators Cavanaugh, Hunt, Fredrickson and Planned Parenthood, I Be Black Girl, OutNebraska<\/p>

\u00a0<\/div>

2022<\/b><\/h3>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,\u00a0<\/strong>Hannah Wroblewski<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,\u00a0<\/strong>Edward T. Ventura<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,\u00a0<\/strong>Meghan Rivera<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,\u00a0<\/strong>Kay Thomas<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/strong>\u00a0Randy Fair
<\/strong><\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Marthaellen Florence
<\/strong><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,\u00a0Medical Marijuana Team
<\/strong>–Sen.Adam Morfeld
–Sen. Anna Wishart
–Crista Eggers
–Daniel Gutman<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Mike Lee<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/strong>Bev White<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/strong>\u00a0Sen. Wendy DeBoer<\/p>

State Party Chair Kleeb Award,<\/strong>\u00a0the late Seth Rich<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Patty Zieg\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/div>

\u00a0<\/b><\/div>

2021\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1 Volunteer Award: <\/b>Chris McCoy<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2 Volunteer Award: <\/b>Dulce Sherman<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3 Volunteer Award:<\/b> Marci Docekal\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party Award:<\/b> Terry Sigler<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award:<\/b> Meg Mikolajczyk<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award: <\/b>Ben Cass<\/span><\/p>

State Senator Courage Award:<\/b> Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh<\/span><\/p>

State Party Chair Kleeb Award:<\/b> State AFL-CIO President Sue Martin<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award:<\/b> Preston Love, Jr.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

2020<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD1:<\/b> Emma Craig<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD2:<\/b> Women Who Run, Denise Blaya Powell + Leanne Prewitt<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD3:<\/b> Chair Kris Kinzie<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party Volunteer Award:<\/b> Chair Janet Chung<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award:<\/b> Yolanda Chavez Nuncio<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award:<\/b> James Michael Bowers<\/span><\/p>

State Senator Courage Award:<\/b> Senator Carol Blood<\/span><\/p>

State Party Chair Award:<\/b> Senator Justin Wayne; Board Member Kimara Snipe; Black Caucus Chair Precious McKesson; Jasmine Harris; Alisha Shelton<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award:<\/b> Trevor Fitzgerald<\/span><\/p>

2019<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1: <\/b>Roger Eschliman<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Lilia Franciscony<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Haley Mazour<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party:<\/b> Judy Vohland<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine:<\/b> Lisa Fricke<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle:<\/b> Caleb Rohrer<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle:<\/b> Krystal Fox<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> The Women of CD1 \u2013 Pastor Janet Banks, Adelle Burk, Sydney Rae Butler, Janet Chung, Marthaellen Florence, Mary Harding, Jessica McClure, Megan Mikolajczyk, Michele Tilley, Christa Yoakum, Laurie Martinez<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Patty Pansing Brooks<\/span><\/p>

2018<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Shirl Mora James<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Scott Williams<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Tom Genung and Doc Moore<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Zachary Mora James<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Senator Bob Kerrey<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Brian Mikkelsen<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Lauren Williams<\/span><\/p>

Morrison Exon:<\/b> Delmer Adam<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Big Mama\u2019s Kitchen<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Tony Vargas<\/span><\/p>

2017<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Mike Pittz<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Rachel Huggins<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Terry Wegner<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Meg Mandy<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Patsy Koch-Johns Volunteers\u2013Inonge Kasaji, Kaylie Schnittker-Hogan, Cooper Christiancy, Brodey Weber, Michael Maly and Maluba Mudundulu<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Mina Davis<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Frank LaMere<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Rick Kolowski<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> John Quirk<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Janet Stewart and Stephanie Matejka<\/span><\/p>

2016<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Tom Havelka<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Susan Tafini<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Paige Hutchinson<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jose Jimenez<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Dennis Crawford<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Paul Hartnett<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Sharlette Schwenninger<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Kathy Moore-Jensen<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

2015<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Ellen Moore<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Ramona Lisa Fricke<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Ismael Valadez<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Meg Mikolajczyk<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Marque Snow<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Tom Tilden<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Dave Newell<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Dave Domina<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Andy Holland<\/span><\/p>

2014<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Marta Nieves<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Bryon Line<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Shaun Baker<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Jeremy Nordquist<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Lacey Merica<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Jim \u201cDoc\u201d Moore<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Bob Kerrey<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Amanda McGill<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Deena Province<\/span><\/p>

2013<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Jon Rehm<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Susan Tafini<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Terry Sigler<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Bob Holmstedt<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Rebekah Caruthers<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Peg O\u2019Dea Lippert<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Jeff Leanna<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Joey Adler<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Ken Mass<\/span><\/p>

2012<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Mary Herres<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Shelisa Minnifield<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Deena Province<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b>\u00a0 Bri McLarty<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b>\u00a0 Lanny Munson<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Benjamin Nelson<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Chuck Hassebrook<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b><\/p>

2011<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Bennie Shobe<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Joe Higgins<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Judy Vohland<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Jim Rogers & Missy Wigley<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Karlee Coleman<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Joan Killingsworth<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Don Eret<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Bill Forsee & Christa Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Jane Raybould<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Mayor Jim Suttle<\/span><\/p>

2010<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Becki Gaston<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Frank Johannsen<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Danielle Conrad<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Crystal Rhoades<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Ted Kessler<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> James Quigley<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Tom Brown<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Jan Osten<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

2009<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Sandi Skorniak<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Mark Fields<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Mike Fahey<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jessica Rathbun<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Kyle Michaelis<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Carol Blood<\/span><\/p>

Special Services to the State:<\/b> John Berge<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Chris Jerram<\/span><\/p>

2008<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Vic Covalt<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Peg O\u2019Dea Lippert<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Carolee Koehn<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Donna Noll<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Don Preister<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Heath Mello<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Vince Powers<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Marion Bahensky<\/span><\/p>

2007<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Rick Carter<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Phyllis Ebey<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3: <\/b>Mike Zgud<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Selma Mesner<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Colleen Seng<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jeremy Nordquist<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Bill Avery<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Duane Jones\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>

More about the Gala<\/strong><\/h2>

Each year the Nebraska Democratic Party celebrates the elected officials, candidates, party leaders and grassroots volunteers that build our party.<\/span><\/p>

For about two decades, the annual event was called the Morrison Exon fundraiser in honor of Gov. Frank Morrison and\u00a0 Sen. Jim Exon.<\/p>

In 2022, the NDP decided it was time to honor one of our current party titans — Sen. Ben Nelson — and re-named the annual event the Nelson Gala.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Additionally, we are renaming various awards after leaders who shaped our party.<\/span><\/p>

The annual fundraiser always includes great Nebraska and national speakers. Past speakers included Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Senator Jeff Merkley, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Cori Bush and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Rep. Grace Meng, Rep. Justin J. Pearson, and Gov. Tim Walz.<\/span><\/p>

About Nelson<\/b><\/h3>

A U.S. Senator from 2001 to 2013 and governor from 1991-99. Nelson founded the CHIP program ensuring kids in our state had access to health insurance. A champion for the environment and property rights, Nelson denied a nuclear waste dump from being built in Boyd County.<\/span><\/p>

Award Descriptions<\/b><\/h2>

In both 2018 and in 2022, the NDP re-named awards to honor Democratic leaders. Chair Jane Kleeb and the leadership team believed it was critical we honor Nebraska leaders in naming our awards. Note that recipients of past awards are still listed below with the name of the award they received that year.<\/span><\/p>

Preston Love Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Love Award is presented to volunteers who personifies the spirit of the Nebraska Democratic Party. The award is given to an individual who is tireless in supporting the Nebraska Democratic Party, county parties and candidates\u2019 campaigns. An award is given to one volunteer per Congressional District.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Preston Love Jr.,<\/span> the NDP\u2019s former Vice Chair, is a community advocate who served as Jesse Jackson’s campaign manager during the 1984 Democratic primaries. He is the first black person to receive the support of a major political party for U.S. Senate in Nebraska, as he was endorsed by the NDP\u2019s for the 2020 senate election in Nebraska, challenging incumbent Sen. Ben Sasse. For years, he has <\/span>taken hundreds of young people and adults on tours of civil rights landmarks in the south through his Black Votes Matter, Black History tours.<\/span><\/p>

Schimek Quirk Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Schimek Quirk Award is presented to a county party volunteer who works tirelessly to promote the activities and values of the Democratic Party in their county. The award winners demonstrate a dedication to service, integrity, the organizing of their county party infrastructure, and support for local Democratic candidates.<\/span><\/p>

DiAnna Schimek, was chair of the NDP from 1980 to 1984. She, was elected in 1988 to represent the 27th Nebraska legislative district and re-elected in 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004. She sat on the Business and Labor and Urban Affairs committees as well as the Committee on Committees and chaired the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.<\/span> Schimek was largely responsible for the enactment of Nebraska’s method of apportioning electoral votes in presidential elections by congressional district. <\/span>In 2011, Schimek was appointed to replace Jane Snyder, who resigned for health reasons, on the Lincoln City Council. She took her seat on October 10, 2011 to represent one of the at-large seats. She did not seek reelection in 2013.<\/span><\/p>

Deb Quirk knew the importance of local campaigns and gained her first experience in a Hastings City Council race. She met her husband John when he was working on the Jimmy Carter presidential campaign. While the family business is the Quirk Cattle Company, politics is also family business. Deb and John were a force in the state Democratic Party as well as in Adams County and CD3. Deb was elected state party chair and served from 1995-1998. Even after serving as chair, Deb has remained active in both local and NDP party and candidate activities. Always with attention to detail and strategic planning, making sure resolutions and motions were in proper form, Deb has always been a champion for rural Nebraska and assured rural counties and rural voters matter within the party structure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Sunshine Award is presented to individuals who are dedicated to improving both the Nebraska Democratic Party and their community as an ally to our Democratic values. The award is open to any ally working or volunteering in the community and does not have to be serving in a Democratic party role.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

This award is given in honor of Carrie Howard, sister of Sen. Sara Howard and daughter of Sen. Gwen Howard.<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Anne Boyle Award is presented to a young person under 36 (using the age criteria of the NYD & Young Democrats of America) for their exceptional volunteer activities and participation within the Nebraska Young Democrats organization and the state party.\u00a0<\/p>

Commissioner Anne Boyle was the first woman to serve on the Public Service Commission and served three six-year terms beginning in 1996. Boyle was our state party chair from 1998 to 2001. Boyle was committed to lifting young people and mentoring fellow Democrats. Commissioner Boyle passed away in 2019.<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Mike Fahey Award is presented to a Block Captain who goes above and beyond in their canvassing efforts and talking to their neighbors.<\/span><\/p>

Mike<\/span> Fahey took office as mayor of Omaha in 2001 and was re-elected in 2005. He was a member of the Mayors Against Illegal Guns Coalition, an effort to push for gun reform at the local level. He was responsible for changing the landscape of the city with new development and a revitalized commitment to neighborhoods. At the end of Fahey’s term in 2009, the city of Omaha named a section of Webster Street downtown, between 10th and 17th streets, in his honor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Brad Ashford Award\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

The Brad Ashford Award is presented to a current State Senator who shows conviction, support for our party\u2019s platform and leadership in the Unicameral.<\/span><\/p>

Brad<\/span> Ashford served in the Nebraska Legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives from Nebraska\u2019s 2nd Congressional District. He served in the Legislature from 1987 to 1995, and returned to the Legislature in 2007 to 2015. Brad Ashford defeated 16-year incumbent Rep. Lee Terry to proudly serve the famous \u201cblue dot\u201d of Nebraska. Brad Ashford passed away in 2022 and <\/span>dedicated years of his life to our state and country to better the lives of all Americans.<\/p>

State Party Chair Award<\/b><\/h3>

The State Party Chair Award is presented to a person or group chosen by the NDP Chair.<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award<\/b><\/h3>

The Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award is the highest honor given by the Nebraska Democratic Party. The award is presented to a former or current elected county party officer, state party officer or an elected official who are dedicated to the principles of the Nebraska Democratic Party and who have contributed above and beyond the call of duty to the Nebraska Democratic Party along with local issues that impact the state and national level. <\/span>
<\/span>
<\/span>Frank LaMere<\/span><\/a> was the first Native American to serve as a Democratic National Committee member and he founded both the state and national Native American caucuses. LaMere was the longest-serving Native American on the DNC. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention seven consecutive times from 1988 to 2012. LaMere also served as the NDP\u2019s first associate chair. LaMere dedicated his life to social justice and helped close down illegal beer sales at Whiteclay, NE, just across the border from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.<\/span><\/p>

Past Award Recipients<\/b><\/h2>

2024 Award Winners<\/span><\/span><\/h1>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/span>\u00a0Jayden Speed<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/span>\u00a0Luke Peterson<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/span>\u00a0MajieAhna Winfrey<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/span>\u00a0Wes Jensen<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/span>\u00a0Shannon Graves<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/span>\u00a0Becky Potmesil<\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,<\/span>\u00a0Washington County Chair Jo-El Chiles<\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,<\/span>\u00a0Ross Manhart<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award,<\/span>\u00a0President Henry Cline<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/span>\u00a0Darin Tompkins<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/span>\u00a0Michelle Bates<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/span>\u00a0Senator Jen Day<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0DNC Chair Jaime Harrison<\/span>
<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0<\/span>ASDC President Ken Martin<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Justin Kemerling<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Adam Casey<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Anna Oyer<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/span>\u00a0Round and Round – Jake Welche<\/p>

2023<\/b><\/h3>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,<\/b> Liz Tompkins<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,<\/b> John Fox<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/b> Nate Helzer<\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,<\/b> Dawson County Chair Ann Trullinger<\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,<\/b> Angie Lauritsen<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award, <\/b>President Larissa Schultz<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/b> Deanna Pulse<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/b> Senator John Cavanaugh<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,<\/b> DNC Committeewoman Charlene Ligon<\/p>

The State Party Chair Award,<\/b> Senators Cavanaugh, Hunt, Fredrickson and Planned Parenthood, I Be Black Girl, OutNebraska<\/p>

\u00a0<\/div>

2022<\/b><\/h3>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,\u00a0<\/strong>Hannah Wroblewski<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD1,\u00a0<\/strong>Edward T. Ventura<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD2,\u00a0<\/strong>Meghan Rivera<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,\u00a0<\/strong>Kay Thomas<\/p>

Preston Love Jr. Volunteer Award CD3,<\/strong>\u00a0Randy Fair
<\/strong><\/p>

Schimek Quirk County Party Volunteer Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Marthaellen Florence
<\/strong><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award,\u00a0Medical Marijuana Team
<\/strong>–Sen.Adam Morfeld
–Sen. Anna Wishart
–Crista Eggers
–Daniel Gutman<\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Mike Lee<\/p>

Mike Fahey Block Captain Award,<\/strong>Bev White<\/p>

Brad Ashford State Senator Courage Award,<\/strong>\u00a0Sen. Wendy DeBoer<\/p>

State Party Chair Kleeb Award,<\/strong>\u00a0the late Seth Rich<\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award,\u00a0<\/strong>Patty Zieg\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/div>

\u00a0<\/b><\/div>

2021\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1 Volunteer Award: <\/b>Chris McCoy<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2 Volunteer Award: <\/b>Dulce Sherman<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3 Volunteer Award:<\/b> Marci Docekal\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party Award:<\/b> Terry Sigler<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award:<\/b> Meg Mikolajczyk<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award: <\/b>Ben Cass<\/span><\/p>

State Senator Courage Award:<\/b> Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh<\/span><\/p>

State Party Chair Kleeb Award:<\/b> State AFL-CIO President Sue Martin<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award:<\/b> Preston Love, Jr.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

2020<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD1:<\/b> Emma Craig<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD2:<\/b> Women Who Run, Denise Blaya Powell + Leanne Prewitt<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey Volunteer Award, CD3:<\/b> Chair Kris Kinzie<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party Volunteer Award:<\/b> Chair Janet Chung<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine Award:<\/b> Yolanda Chavez Nuncio<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle Young Democrat Award:<\/b> James Michael Bowers<\/span><\/p>

State Senator Courage Award:<\/b> Senator Carol Blood<\/span><\/p>

State Party Chair Award:<\/b> Senator Justin Wayne; Board Member Kimara Snipe; Black Caucus Chair Precious McKesson; Jasmine Harris; Alisha Shelton<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame Award:<\/b> Trevor Fitzgerald<\/span><\/p>

2019<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1: <\/b>Roger Eschliman<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Lilia Franciscony<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Haley Mazour<\/span><\/p>

Ben Nelson County Party:<\/b> Judy Vohland<\/span><\/p>

Carrie Howard Sunshine:<\/b> Lisa Fricke<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle:<\/b> Caleb Rohrer<\/span><\/p>

Anne Boyle:<\/b> Krystal Fox<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> The Women of CD1 \u2013 Pastor Janet Banks, Adelle Burk, Sydney Rae Butler, Janet Chung, Marthaellen Florence, Mary Harding, Jessica McClure, Megan Mikolajczyk, Michele Tilley, Christa Yoakum, Laurie Martinez<\/span><\/p>

Frank LaMere Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Patty Pansing Brooks<\/span><\/p>

2018<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Shirl Mora James<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Scott Williams<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Tom Genung and Doc Moore<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Zachary Mora James<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Senator Bob Kerrey<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Brian Mikkelsen<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Lauren Williams<\/span><\/p>

Morrison Exon:<\/b> Delmer Adam<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Big Mama\u2019s Kitchen<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Tony Vargas<\/span><\/p>

2017<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Mike Pittz<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Rachel Huggins<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Terry Wegner<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Meg Mandy<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Patsy Koch-Johns Volunteers\u2013Inonge Kasaji, Kaylie Schnittker-Hogan, Cooper Christiancy, Brodey Weber, Michael Maly and Maluba Mudundulu<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Mina Davis<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Frank LaMere<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Rick Kolowski<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> John Quirk<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Janet Stewart and Stephanie Matejka<\/span><\/p>

2016<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Tom Havelka<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Susan Tafini<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Paige Hutchinson<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jose Jimenez<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Dennis Crawford<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Paul Hartnett<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Sharlette Schwenninger<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Kathy Moore-Jensen<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

2015<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Ellen Moore<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Ramona Lisa Fricke<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Ismael Valadez<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Meg Mikolajczyk<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Marque Snow<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Tom Tilden<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Dave Newell<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Dave Domina<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Andy Holland<\/span><\/p>

2014<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Marta Nieves<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Bryon Line<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Shaun Baker<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Jeremy Nordquist<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Lacey Merica<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Jim \u201cDoc\u201d Moore<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Senator Bob Kerrey<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Amanda McGill<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Deena Province<\/span><\/p>

2013<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Jon Rehm<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Susan Tafini<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Terry Sigler<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Bob Holmstedt<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Rebekah Caruthers<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Peg O\u2019Dea Lippert<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Jeff Leanna<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Joey Adler<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Ken Mass<\/span><\/p>

2012<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Mary Herres<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Shelisa Minnifield<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Deena Province<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b>\u00a0 Bri McLarty<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b>\u00a0 Lanny Munson<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Benjamin Nelson<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Chuck Hassebrook<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b><\/p>

2011<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Bennie Shobe<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Joe Higgins<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Judy Vohland<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Jim Rogers & Missy Wigley<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Karlee Coleman<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Joan Killingsworth<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Don Eret<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Bill Forsee & Christa Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Jane Raybould<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Mayor Jim Suttle<\/span><\/p>

2010<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Becki Gaston<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Charlene Ligon<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Frank Johannsen<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Danielle Conrad<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Crystal Rhoades<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Ted Kessler<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> James Quigley<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Tom Brown<\/span><\/p>

Sunshine:<\/b> Jan Osten<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

2009<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> John Yoakum<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Sandi Skorniak<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Bud Pettigrew<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Mark Fields<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Mike Fahey<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jessica Rathbun<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Kyle Michaelis<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Carol Blood<\/span><\/p>

Special Services to the State:<\/b> John Berge<\/span><\/p>

State Chair:<\/b> Chris Jerram<\/span><\/p>

2008<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Vic Covalt<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Peg O\u2019Dea Lippert<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3:<\/b> Carolee Koehn<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Donna Noll<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Don Preister<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Heath Mello<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Vince Powers<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Marion Bahensky<\/span><\/p>

2007<\/b><\/h3>

Bob Kerrey CD1:<\/b> Rick Carter<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD2:<\/b> Phyllis Ebey<\/span><\/p>

Bob Kerrey CD3: <\/b>Mike Zgud<\/span><\/p>

Franklin Delano Roosevelt:<\/b> Selma Mesner<\/span><\/p>

Hall of Fame:<\/b> Colleen Seng<\/span><\/p>

John F. Kennedy:<\/b> Jeremy Nordquist<\/span><\/p>

Kathleen Fahey Young Democrats of Service:<\/b> Bill Avery<\/span><\/p>

Morrison-Exon:<\/b> Duane Jones\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Big Blue Weekend, Nov. 7-8, 2025 at the Hilton Omaha Join us for our Big Blue Weekend where we celebrate Democrats–from the Ben Nelson Gala, to our VendorFest candidate training and our quarterly SCC meeting! Lots of fun and getting ready for the 26 elections! Award Winners Watch President Biden’s Address Again VendorFest Candidate Training, … \u0110\u1ecdc th\u00eam<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-39124","page","type-page","status-publish"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nBen Nelson Gala – Nebraska Democratic Party<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/nebraskademocrats.org\/vi\/nelsongala\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"vi_VN\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Ben Nelson Gala – Nebraska Democratic Party\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Big Blue Weekend, Nov. 7-8, 2025 at the Hilton Omaha Join us for our Big Blue Weekend where we celebrate Democrats–from the Ben Nelson Gala, to our VendorFest candidate training and our quarterly SCC meeting! Lots of fun and getting ready for the 26 elections! Award Winners Watch President Biden’s Address Again VendorFest Candidate Training, ... 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