The Rotary Club of Hopkinsville held its annual awards luncheon — not with prime rib and fanfare, but with chicken fingers and heartfelt gratitude.
Club President Kelly Gates welcomed members and guests with warmth and humor.
Despite the casual setting, the recognition was anything but ordinary. This year, the club earned multiple honors from Rotary District 6710, including the Magic of Rotary Award for local service efforts, and Best International Service Project for a student-led effort providing clean water to a school in Africa.
From youth support to vocational service, public image, and a Thanksgiving collaboration that fed dozens of families — the Hopkinsville Rotary Club made its mark.
Awards were also given to individual Rotarians, including Travis Martin, named Friend of the Community; Kylie Killebrew and Denny Minor, recipients of the Service Above Self Award; and Brandon Killebrew, honored as Rotarian of the Year.
As Gates closed her term, she reflected on the power of service — especially during personal loss.
Incoming President Landan Stallons now takes the helm, vowing to carry the club’s mission forward.
With new leadership in place and a long list of accomplishments behind them, the Hopkinsville Rotary Club looks ahead to another year of impact.
