Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Correction: Although the Chamber of Commerce posted the photos of its dinner, Jeff McDanald took the photos, and we at the Journal did not publish his name as a source in our paper. We apologize for this mistake.

To kick off 2025, the Jessamine County Chamber of Commerce held its annual dinner on January 16 at the R.J. Corman Hangar. 

The Chamber’s members include business owners, representatives, and county and city government officials. Those who attended the dinner donned their best zany patterns, neon colors, and chunky jewelry to fit the ‘Back to the 80s’ theme. Plenty of people dressed up, including those who weren’t even born until after the 1980s. 

“This year’s annual dinner… we were able to honor and recognize eleven different businesses and individuals that were truly deserving. Each year we strive to find the individuals to best suit certain award designations. We ask community members, board members, and our ambassadors for their recommendations among our chamber members. Recognizing them is a special honor for us,” Chamber Executive Director Ronda May said.

As it does every year, the Chamber recognized 11 people and businesses for their work in Jessamine County: 

• Civic Award – Amy Fitch, Wilmore Parks and Recreation Director.
• Education Award – John Daugherty, Jessamine County Schools Educator for 34 years.
• Industry Award – Blingle of Greater Lexington, Landscape, Event, Smart LED & Holiday  Lighting Services.
• Small Business Award – Netcomm, an information technology company owned by Don Rehmel.
• New Business Award – Ghost Fox Winery, a new small-batch winery.

On Ghost Fox Winery’s Instagram, the owners, Josh and Mallory Morris, posted that they are “deeply honored” to have received the reward. 

“This first year of Ghost Fox Winery in Nicholasville has been an incredible adventure, and we are beyond grateful for the support of the Chamber, Jessamine County Tourism, and our amazing community. Your encouragement, enthusiasm, and shared love for great wine have made this journey truly unforgettable,” read the Instagram post. 

• RJ Corman Service Award – Jessamine County Sheriff Kevin Grimes. 
• Ambassador of the Year – Jessamine Co. Young Farmer’s Association Vice President Doug Marshall. 
• Outstanding Business Leader – Dr. Bill McCaw with McCaw Veterinary Associates.
• President’s Award – Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ronda May. 

“This year it was especially surprising when my 2024 Chamber president, Kyle Roe (with the Bim Group) awarded me his president’s award which I was very gracious and very grateful to receive. It was a surprise and he pulled it off. it was amazing that he got my whole family to be there and my son and daughter were the ones to present the award to me,” May said. “I told the crowd there, when you love your job, it’s not really called work. I love my job at the Chamber.”

• Business of the Year—Blue Tank & Pump Rental. After the event, the owners posted on their Facebook, “This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible team and supportive community. Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey! We are committed to providing the best service and quality in the industry.”

Hall of Fame – Gary Hager, President of Hager Construction, Inc.