SIDNEY — The Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce presented the E.K. Yanney Award to E3 Navigator Alisha Juelfs of Potter.

“It’s truly an honor to receive this award. The E.K. Yanney Award is all about supporting economic development, which is exactly what E3 set out to do. To me, this means the work we’re doing is impactful, and we’ve successfully built relationships among business owners and partnerships that provide resources and opportunities in our county here in the Panhandle,” Juelfs said after the January 18 Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet.

She said she did not expect to receive the award, adding that she was just doing her job. She credits the volunteers of E3 for her success and recognition with the E.K. Yanney Award.

“I wouldn’t have this opportunity if it weren’t for a group of individuals who worked really hard on making E3 happen, not taking ‘no’ for an answer, finding creative solutions to problems. They are extremely motivating and supportive of me and my efforts in my role as an Entrepreneurial Navigator,” she said.

Juelfs explained that the purpose of E3 is to support businesses and people with visions of starting businesses.

“The purpose of E3 is to help individuals get connected to resources when they need them. Whether you’re just looking at starting a business, currently operating and looking for more information or assistance, or trying to transition and figure out the best route to go, or even recruit a new owner, E3 is here to help you get connected to resources and navigate through the process,” she said.

The E.K. Yanney Award honors the late E.K. Yanney, a prominent banker in the Lodgepole community who wholeheartedly believed in giving back to his community and making it a better place to live and raise a family.

Yanney was very active in economic development countywide. He saw the need to ensure things in Sidney were progressive and growing, as this also affected other regional towns. His perspective, along with John Egging, led to a countywide approach for the Chamber, instead of focusing solely on Sidney.