WHEATLAND – The annual Ag-Appreciation banquet went off without a hitch June 26 in the new Agriplex in Wheatland. The night showcased dignitaries, politicians and revealed the 2020 Ag Business of the year.

The new Agriplex was packed with hundreds of people that came not only to see the remodeled facility, but also to support the local agricultural prowess that is a huge part of Platte County.

Shawna Reichert, the executive director of the Platte County Chamber of Commerce opened the ceremonies with a welcome and a thank you to all the supporters who had made the Argriplex a great venue for the Ag-Banquet.

Deanna Christensen was the opening speaker who then turned the program to Doug Brickman who brought forth the invocation.

The massive crowd was then treated to a catered dinner by Pie Tin Catering with meat provided by Wyoming Pure.  Cheerleaders from Wheatland High School were instrumental in set up and serving dinner. The Guernsey-Sunrise SkillsUSA chapter provided the Business of the year plaque.

The cash bar was provided by Rodeo Ranch.

After dinner, Steve Mantle and his family were given the top award for AG in Platte County as they were awarded the 2020 Ag Business of the year. The award was given by the Platte County Chamber of Commerce and the plaque was given to the Mantle family by the one who nominated them, Cody Benton of First State Bank.

After the presentation of the plaque, Mantle addressed the crowd and gave thanks and gratitude for the award and gave a brief history of where he and his business had come from.

Both Senator Brian Boner and 4th District Representative Jeremy Haroldson were tagged as special speakers for the evening and the sentiment was the same. There is a gratefulness in Platte County and even through COVID, the tests of the nation and Mother Nature, the businesses and people of Platte County not only survived, but they prospered.

Special thanks were given to Quintessentials Mercantile for the flowers that were donated.

There were also many door prizes given out during the program and supporters of the night included Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Banner Health, Wheatland Country Store, Farm Credit Services of America, Platte Valley Bank, First State Bank, Brown Company, Drube’s Supply & Home, Banner Capital Bank, Rafter MB quarter horses, DeLancey’s Rodeo Ranch, Chugwater Chili, Wyoming Pure, Farm Buereau Financial Services, Guernsey Mercantile, Touch of Color, The Pie Tin Bakery and Catering, Interstate Gas and Conoco Food Mart, PH Consulting, Quintessentials Mercantile, Rolling Hills Bank & Trust and Laramie Peak Veterinary Associates.