Thank for for voting for your 2026 Business Excellence finalists.

Here is a Brief Summary of the Nominees for your consideration:

• A3G Architects has made a significant impact in the Kearney market through thoughtful design, strategic problem-solving, and a growing portfolio of commercial, residential, and community-focused projects.
• Bull Run Roofing has quickly become a highly visible and engaged Chamber business, known for strong customer service, active community support, and enthusiastic encouragement of other local businesses.
• Evergreen Health and Wellness brings a fresh, health-focused perspective to the Chamber and community while continuing to grow its presence and involvement in Kearney.
• Precision Athletics & Wellness has quickly become a valuable community asset, offering year-round space for families, athletes, and residents to train, play, gather, and stay active.
• Etiam Diamonds stands out for outstanding customer service, unique jewelry, and hometown quality that makes customers feel valued and well cared for.
• Kona Ice has embraced the Kearney community in its first official year locally through school support, scholarships, community events, and partnerships with local businesses and organizations.
• Lighthouse Homecare is meeting an important need in Kearney and the surrounding area by providing compassionate, non-medical support for aging adults and their families.
• The Animal Clinic of Kearney continues to reinvent and improve through advanced training, AAHA accreditation, facility updates, and a commitment to compassionate, high-quality veterinary care.
• The Fulfillment House is making a meaningful difference for adults with special needs while expanding its capacity and providing valuable business services to the community.

Here is a Brief Summary of the Nominees for your consideration:

• Brian Watts and KPGZ 102.7FM consistently champion Kearney through event coverage, local storytelling, Bulldog sports, Chamber leadership, and enthusiastic promotion of businesses, schools, and community pride.
• Matt Brown and REMAX Advantage have shown strong Chamber dedication through Board and Treasurer service, sponsorship, ribbon cuttings, community events, and continued support of fellow Chamber businesses.
• Curtis Murphree has demonstrated growing Chamber dedication through his Leadership Academy participation, selection to the Board of Directors, and willingness to serve wherever the Chamber needs support.
• Nicki Barnes is a dependable and generous Chamber supporter who consistently shows up, helps when needed, and stays actively involved in community and Chamber functions.
• Debbie Holt has shown long-standing dedication to the Chamber through years of leadership, continued service, and ongoing promotion of the Chamber’s value to Kearney businesses.
• Bull Run Roofing has been highly engaged in Chamber life this year, actively attending events, supporting fellow members, and helping highlight local businesses and nonprofits.
• Susan Winkler demonstrates Chamber dedication through her care for the community, strong work ethic, and genuine commitment to serving her customers well.
• Ed Taylor is a steady and welcoming presence at Chamber events, always ready with a smile, a helping hand, and strong support for Chamber activities.
• Signarama shows meaningful Chamber dedication by generously donating Gala banners and signage each year, helping recognize and celebrate local businesses at no charge.

Here is a Brief Summary of the Nominees for your consideration:

• Tammy Ball and the Kearney Food Pantry make a profound difference by serving local families with compassion, dignity, and care.
• Brian Watts has made a lasting community impact through KPGZ 102.7FM, Bulldog sports coverage, Chamber leadership, committee service, and consistent support of Kearney events and organizations.
• LeaderOne Financial has transformed a highly visible building into a point of pride while quietly supporting those in need and hosting meaningful community and partner events.
• Bull Run Roofing has made a strong community impact by actively promoting Kearney, supporting local events, and championing other businesses and organizations.
• Lyle Updike continues to quietly and generously serve Kearney’s first responders, offering meals and appreciation out of genuine gratitude and community spirit.
• Kearney Parks & Recreation creates remarkable community impact with a small but dedicated team that provides programs, activities, and opportunities for residents of all ages.
• The Kearney Senior Center and Kearney Enrichment Council provide a vital gathering place where seniors can enjoy meals, activities, dances, exercise, learning, and meaningful connection.
• Northland Therapeutic Riding Center creates life-changing opportunities through equine-assisted services that build confidence, strength, independence, connection, and resilience.
• REMAX Advantage supports the community through local events, client care, family-friendly activities, and a strong commitment to helping people feel at home in Kearney.
• Paisley Candle and Home & Paisley Perk strengthens Kearney by keeping shopping local, offering thoughtful gifts and gathering opportunities, and showing the lasting value of small businesses in a thriving community.
• The Kearney School District has a tremendous community impact by attracting families, developing future leaders, and helping sustain Kearney’s long-term success.

Like its namesake, this award honors those who’s contributions to Kearney have been both a recent effort resulting in a substantial benefit to the community, and a steady, reliable long-term history of service to Kearney.

Here is a Brief Summary of the Nominees for your consideration:

• Mayor Randy Pogue has shown steady, selfless service to Kearney through visible leadership, behind-the-scenes work, community partnerships, and a deep commitment to the city’s future.
• Brian Watts has become a true community pillar through KPGZ 102.7FM, Bulldog sports coverage, Chamber leadership, committee service, and consistent support of Kearney organizations and events.
• Gerri Spencer generously shares her time, leadership, and gift for preserving Kearney’s history through Chamber service, committee involvement, and community storytelling.
• Jason Hoyt exemplifies community-minded leadership through his work with the Kearney Enrichment Council, local business, banking, youth sports, and his willingness to serve others.
• Nicki Barnes represents the heart of Kearney through her enthusiastic involvement, consistent support of Chamber and community events, and warm, service-minded leadership.
• Connie Stoffle has been a longtime pillar of the Kearney/Holt community through decades of entrepreneurship, civic involvement, and generous support of local causes and organizations.
• Ed Taylor gives generously of his time as a welcoming presence at Chamber events, an active committee member, a veteran, and a dedicated supporter of the community.
• Jewelee Cox and Tobacco Barn Farm have strengthened Kearney through Chamber Board and committee service, generous mentorship, support of local businesses, and the gracious use of their venue for community and Chamber events year after year.
• Chief Mark Thomas, as he prepares to retire from the Kearney Police Department, leaves a lasting impact through community-oriented policing, steady leadership, and a strong commitment to safety and quality of life in Kearney.

Business of the Year

The Business of the Year Award recognizes one outstanding Chamber business selected from the 2026 4x4 Spotlight honorees. These businesses were identified by the Chamber Ambassadors throughout the year for their meaningful engagement, visibility, service, investment, and involvement in the Chamber and the Kearney business community.

4x4 Spotlight honorees may have been recognized for qualities such as Pillar Sponsorship, committee or volunteer service, member referrals, benefit partnerships, prior Business Excellence Award nominations, or new Chamber membership. Together, these nominees represent businesses that are showing up, standing out, and helping strengthen Kearney’s vibrant and prosperous business community.

Please vote for the business you believe best represents excellence, engagement, and positive impact in the Chamber and community.