KEARNEY, Neb. - A longtime community leader in Kearney and newly-renovated museum picked up major tourism honors on Monday.

Tourism officials surprised Director of the Kearney Visitors Bureau Roger Jasnoch with a Celebrate Tourism Award in honor of his 38 years of service to Kearney and Buffalo County. The Museum of Nebraska Art received the other Tourism award for its efforts in reopening after a multi-year addition and renovation.

Jasnoch played a vital role in the creation of many Kearney staples from The Archway to the Viaero Center to attracting the Nebraska Senior Games. He will retire from his post in June.

Tourism officials say that Buffalo County saw the highest percentage increase in lodging tax revenue among all Nebraska counties.

Local Tourism by the Numbers:

• $173.9 million in annual visitor spending

• 1,300 tourism-supported jobs

• Visitors from all 50 states and 20+ countries visited Rowe Sanctuary during the 2025 crane season

• Sports tourism contributes over $2 million annually in economic impact