2026 Park Hills - Leadington Chamber of Commerce Award Banquet

The Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 Annual Awards Banquet at The White Magnolia Banquet Hall, bringing together local business leaders, elected officials, and community members for an evening dedicated to recognizing individuals who have made an extraordinary impact on the region.

The event was emceed by Chuck Odle and began with an invocation by Harvey Faircloth. Guests enjoyed dinner prepared and organized by the Chamber’s own Glenda Straughn and amazing assistants and co-chefs, and fellowshipped while being entertained by The Royal Dumpe, whose interactive performance provided a unique and lively element to the evening’s program.

During the banquet, the Chamber also recognized its 2026 Board of Directors and retiring leadership, thanking them for their continued service and dedication to strengthening the local business community. 

A special recognition was also presented to Tamara Coleman, who was honored for 30 years of service and dedication to the Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce. Coleman, who began working for the Chamber in 1996, has helped guide the organization for three decades, growing membership significantly while supporting businesses, organizing community events, and strengthening partnerships throughout the region.

The evening was highlighted with the presentation of several awards recognizing individuals whose leadership, service, and generosity have helped shape the community.

The St. Francois County Rotary Service Above Self Award was presented by David Shaw to Harvey Faircloth in recognition of his decades of service and commitment to improving the lives of others throughout St. Francois County.

The KFMO/B104 Kelly Valle Sweat Equity Award, presented by Jase Odle, was awarded to Zach Franklin, City Administrator for Park Hills, for his dedication to economic development and his leadership in helping bring new investment and job opportunities to the region.

The KREI/KTJJ 110% Award, presented by Mike Ramsey, was awarded to Corey and Brooke Maynard of Four Towns Brewing Company for their ongoing support of local schools, charitable organizations, and community initiatives throughout St. Francois County.

The Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce Chamber’s Friend Award was presented by Zach Franklin to Kyle Bonney, owner of K Buckley Towing & Recovery, recognizing his consistent behind-the-scenes support of Chamber and community events.

Two individuals were honored with the Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Contribution Award. Bill Bess was recognized by presenter Don Bess for more than forty years of service to families and businesses in the region as an American Family Insurance agent. Terry “TJ” Isgrig, recognized by presenter Mike Patt, was honored for more than three decades of service with the St. Francois County Ambulance District and for his leadership and mentorship within the emergency medical services community.

The Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award, presented by Brenda Jordan, was awarded to Rebecca Buchanan for her compassionate leadership and her work supporting individuals facing breast cancer through the Pink Penguin Project.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award to Gary Milton Busenbark, presented by Ron Rouggly. The award recognized Busenbark’s lifelong dedication to business, community development, and service to the region.

The Chamber also recognized its 2026 Elite Partners, whose continued investment helps support the Chamber’s mission of promoting economic growth, strengthening local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life throughout the Park Hills and Leadington communities. 

The Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere appreciation to The White Magnolia Banquet Hall for hosting the event, to the evening’s caterers and volunteers, to The Royal Dumpe for their entertainment, and to the sponsors and community members who made the event possible.

The Annual Awards Banquet serves as a reminder of the leadership, generosity, and dedication that continue to move the Park Hills and Leadington communities forward.