On Saturday, August 4, a contribution on behalf of Wheat Belt Public Power District, in the amount of $1,020, was made to the Orphan Grain Train to benefit the Kearney Flood Relief project. Brian Zimmerman, Wheat Belt Public Power District’s, Treasurer and Director from the Big Springs area, presented the check to Brad Brackhan, the Rocky Mountain Branch Manager of the Orphan Grain Train. Pictured from left to right are Brad Brackhan, Branch Manager; Brian Zimmerman, Wheat Belt PPD Director; Dick Dawson, Warehouse Manager; and Muriel Nelson, Secretary.

The donation was presented on behalf of Wheat Belt PPD by the Touchstone Energy Cooperative as part of their Hot Air Balloon Project, the balloon’s professional flight team had been invited to the 2019 Gold Rush Days in Sidney, June 7 and 8, although, the balloon was not able to be launched due to weather.

The Touchstone Energy Balloon is designed to provide a highly visible means of demonstrating good corporate citizenship at local civic and philanthropic events. Tri-State G & T, Wheat Belt’s power supplier, sponsors the balloon on behalf of their member systems when available. This was the first time, Wheat Belt PPD received the sponsorship. A monetary contribution is made to a local charity on behalf of the sponsoring Touchstone Energy Member.