Ron Peterson (right) chairman of the Hall County Board of Commissioners, gives a certificate to Steve Hornady of Hornady Manufacturing in honor of the business’s 75th anniversary, (Carol Bryant, Central Nebraska Today)
GRAND ISLAND – The Hall County Board of Commissioners recognized Hornady Manufacturing for its 75th anniversary at the Tuesday, July 2, meeting.
“We’re very honored to receive this recognition,” said Steve Hornady of Hornady Manufacturing. “This is our home and always will be.”
Commissioner Gary Quandt noted that Hornady Manufacturing is a key supporter of Hero Flights.
“No business is successful unless you have the right people,” said Don Shuda, Veteran Service Officer. He said that Hornady Manufacturing has also provided support for the Veterans Cemetery project.
Former Mayor Jay Vavricek said that Steve Hornady worked with a group of people in the late 1970s on a vote for a community center.
Heartland United Way President Karen Rathke said, “I want to echo the deep appreciation we have for Hornady Manufacturing.”
She said that Hornady employees contributed $18,000 to Heartland United Way in 1998. In 2024, employees contributed $143,237.
“The employees give back to the community ,” Rathke said. “Thank you on behalf of all of the nonprofits you have supported.”
Mary Berlie, president of the Grand Island Area Economic Development Corporation, said that Hornady Manufacturing has become a “powerhouse” in our community.
“We are proud to have them here,” Berlie said.
Brad Mellema, executive director of the Grand Island Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, said that Grand Island is a “shooting sports town.”
He noted that Hornady Manufacturing has taken over operation of the Heartland Public Shooting Park.
“Your company’s unbelievable what it’s done for this community,” said Commissioner Gary Quandt.
“I am very honored and very humbled,” Steve Hornady said. He said he learned from his parents to give back to the community.
