SIDNEY, NE — Despite a tumultuous year, Cheyenne County found plenty to celebrate at its annual Chamber banquet on Friday.
The Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce honored individuals and businesses who served the communities in the area exceptionally over the past year.
Steve Mattoon was honored as citizen of the year. Mattoon recently retired after 36 years on the Sidney School Board. He also wrapped up a term as president of the Nebraska State Bar Association in October.
“I very much appreciate this award,” Mattoon said. “It’s kind of strange I’m getting awarded for this when I basically spent the year in my basement working remotely.”
Several new businesses received honors. Charlotte and Emerson Boutique was named New Business of the Year while Beans and Steams Coffee House won outstanding customer service award.
Best Plumbing Heating and Cooling took home Economic Development Project of the Year after opening a new office in 2020.
The Sidney Inn was awarded the Business Revitalization Award after the Sabhaya family moved in, renovated the hotel and reopened it.
“We truly couldn’t have found a better town to start our motel because this is our first one and we hope to expand to many more,” Sidney Inn manager Hard Sabhaya said. “Thank you for taking us in, into your community and you guys have a wonderful year.”
While many businesses were recognized for triumphs during the pandemic, the area didn’t forget about those on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19. The staff at Sidney Regional Medical Center were honored as Heroes Among Us.
“This award is an honor to receive, a testament to the work that is being done and an inspiration to the work we have left to do,” SRMC director of nursing Ann McCartney said.
Awards given out are as follows:
New Business of the Year – Charlotte and Emerson Boutique
Outstanding Customer Service Award – Beans & Steams Coffee House
Citizen of the Year Award – Steve Mattoon
Economic Development Project of the Year – Best Plumbing Heating and Cooling
Business Revitalization Award – Sidney Inn
Community Impact Award – Adams Industries
E.K. Yanney Award – Potter Lions Club
Community Leader Award – Matt Monheiser
Edna Anderson Award – Brent Jeffers
Heroes Among Us – SRMC Staff
Supporter of the Year – Jeanette – Brand New Items for A Great Deal
Ambassador of the Year – Shirley White
Friend of Tourism – Curtis Hofrock – Cheyenne County Community Center
Board Member of the Year – Regina Narjes
