Chamber awards 2026: Volunteer of the Year
2026-05-27 - Columbia, KY - Photo by Linda Waggener, ColumbiaMagazine.com
Stacey Hatcher Bishop, center in back among the nominees, was honored with the Chamber of Commerce Volunteer Award for her quiet but meaningful service to others throughout the community. Ellen Zornes said in her introduction that Bishop consistently helps people without seeking attention or recognition for her efforts. Among her contributions is Cally's Line, an anonymous tip line supporting local law enforcement and community safety. Family members shared that Bishop became especially focused on helping others after her cancer diagnosis, choosing to "pay it forward" in appreciation for the kindness shown to her during difficult times. Comments | Permalink
2026-05-27 - Columbia, KY - Photo by Linda Waggener, ColumbiaMagazine.com
Stacey Hatcher Bishop, center in back among the nominees, was honored with the Chamber of Commerce Volunteer Award for her quiet but meaningful service to others throughout the community. Ellen Zornes said in her introduction that Bishop consistently helps people without seeking attention or recognition for her efforts. Among her contributions is Cally's Line, an anonymous tip line supporting local law enforcement and community safety. Family members shared that Bishop became especially focused on helping others after her cancer diagnosis, choosing to "pay it forward" in appreciation for the kindness shown to her during difficult times. Comments | Permalink
Chamber awards 2026: First Responder of the Year
2026-05-27 - Columbia, KY - Photo by Linda Waggener, ColumbiaMagazine.com
The First Responder Award was presented to Preston Gaskins at the annual Chamber banquet for his years of service in emergency medical care. Born and raised in Adair County, Gaskins began working part-time with Adair County Ambulance Service in 2008 before later earning his critical care paramedic license. Over the years, he has worked in emergency rooms, with Air Evac services and as an EMT instructor while continuing his work with local EMS. Chamber officials praised his dedication to helping others during emergencies and his commitment to the profession. He is pictured here with two of the other nominees which included Trevor Foster, Tyler McKinney, Tyler Soloman, Grant and Dennis Loy and Cody Neat. Comments | Permalink
2026-05-27 - Columbia, KY - Photo by Linda Waggener, ColumbiaMagazine.com
The First Responder Award was presented to Preston Gaskins at the annual Chamber banquet for his years of service in emergency medical care. Born and raised in Adair County, Gaskins began working part-time with Adair County Ambulance Service in 2008 before later earning his critical care paramedic license. Over the years, he has worked in emergency rooms, with Air Evac services and as an EMT instructor while continuing his work with local EMS. Chamber officials praised his dedication to helping others during emergencies and his commitment to the profession. He is pictured here with two of the other nominees which included Trevor Foster, Tyler McKinney, Tyler Soloman, Grant and Dennis Loy and Cody Neat. Comments | Permalink
Chamber awards 2026: Community Enhancement
2026-05-27 - Columbia, KY - Photo by JD Zornes
The Community Enhancement award winner from this group of nominees was Mike Watson, at right, a historian, President of both the Adair Heritage Association and the Genealogical Society. He continuously showcases Adair County in writing and performances. He retired a National Board Certified Teacher, he is an author of 74 books and his history columns have appeared in Adair County media since 1983. Statewide, he is a Board Member of Friends of KY Archives, a member of the KY Genealogical Society, Board member of the Historical Confederation of KY, and was editor of Bluegrass Roots. Comments | Permalink
2026-05-27 - Columbia, KY - Photo by JD Zornes
The Community Enhancement award winner from this group of nominees was Mike Watson, at right, a historian, President of both the Adair Heritage Association and the Genealogical Society. He continuously showcases Adair County in writing and performances. He retired a National Board Certified Teacher, he is an author of 74 books and his history columns have appeared in Adair County media since 1983. Statewide, he is a Board Member of Friends of KY Archives, a member of the KY Genealogical Society, Board member of the Historical Confederation of KY, and was editor of Bluegrass Roots. Comments | Permalink
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