McKenzie Chamber Announces 2026 Chamber Awards Finalists

McKENZIE (May 27) — The McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Development Board has announced eight finalists for the 2026 Chamber Awards. The winners will be announced at the McKenzie Chamber Banquet June 16.

This year's award categories include Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year and Nonprofit of the year.

Nominated for Small Business of the Year are Bobby Gee's Diner and The Silly Goose Children's Shop.

Nominated for Large Business of the Year are Baptist Memorial Hospital - Carroll County and L.I. Smith & Associates.

Nominated for Business Person of the Year are Gary Simmons and Jay Phipps.

Nominated for Nonprofit of the Year are CASA and the Rotary Club.

"These businesses, organizations, and leaders were nominated for their commitment, hard work, community impact and dedication to strengthening McKenzie and the surrounding area," said Monica Heath, executive director. "Each finalist represents the very best of what our Chamber stands for: leadership, service, growth and community pride."

The McKenzie Chamber Banquet is Tuesday, June 16, from 6-8 p.m. at Bethel University's Vera Low Cafeteria, 101 Wildcat Lane, McKenzie. This year's keynote speaker is Patrick Smith, owner and president of L.I. Smith & Associates, Inc.