The banquet marked a significant milestone for Valarie Cobb, who presided over her first banquet as the Chamber’s Executive Director. Cobb, a Prescott native, knocked it out of the park, delivering a warm and poised welcome that emphasized her love for her hometown.
"Prescott is my hometown. It is where my heart is," Cobb told the crowd. "I truly want to see our community grow, thrive, and for each of us to support one another in everything we do. That’s what makes a small town like ours so special."
The atmosphere was electric from the start, thanks to a unique rendition of the National Anthem performed on his guitar by Jackson O'Neal. Lynn Vanderveer served as the master of ceremonies, keeping the audience engaged with his signature wit and entertaining style. Attendees were treated to a delicious dinner catered by Woods from Camden, providing the perfect backdrop for a night of celebration.
Amidst the festivities, the Chamber paused to recognize the Class of 2026 Board of Directors. Hank Crain, Karen Hamilton, Cherry McCormick, Lisa Thornton, Theresa Tyree, and Angela Hendrix were honored for their three years of dedicated leadership as they completed their terms.
The heart of the evening, however, was the presentation of the annual honors. This year’s winners include:
- Nevada County Educator of the Year: Drake Givens – In just two years, Givens has transformed the Ag department, increasing student involvement in Ag classes by 94% and FFA membership by 125%. Under his leadership, the school built a new barn with community-donated electricity and water, and students earned over $10,000 through their own projects.
- Nevada County Student of the Year: Justin Myrick – A standout athlete and scholar, Myrick was described by his teachers as a "rare individual" who balances high academic ambition with a grounded, selfless character and a commitment to his faith.
- Prescott Educator of the Year: Jessi Tompson – A 15-year veteran of the district and a National Board Certified Teacher, Tompson was praised for her "calling and passion." Whether running a fundraiser, working the car line, or even watching YouTube videos to learn how to fix a school bus, Tompson is known for always being there for her students.
- Prescott Student of the Year: Fatima Martinez – Martinez made history as the first student in the district to earn an Associate Degree before graduating high school. Maintaining a 5.0 GPA with over 60 college credit hours, she was recognized as a stellar representative of Prescott.
- Business & Community Leadership Award: City of Prescott & Prescott Police Department – These two entities were honored for working "hand-in-hand" for the community. Under Mayor Terry Oliver, the city has invested in vital infrastructure, while the Police Department, led by Chief Ann Jordan, was recognized for being a constant presence of protection and trust, with officers often volunteering their own time to coach youth teams or help those in need.
- Organization of the Year: Tri-Service Club – Since 1949, this group of "sisters" has served Nevada County. Since 2007 alone, it has donated approximately $73,500 to local causes. From polio vaccines in the early years to providing Christmas presents for nursing home residents today, its impact spans generations.
- Treasure of Gold: Judge Gene Hale – A 1955 Prescott graduate and U.S. Army veteran, Hale was honored for a lifetime of integrity. After a distinguished career that included serving as a legal assistant to the Governor and as a District Judge, Hale recently retired after practicing law at 100 West Main Street for 37 years.
- Hometown Hero: Joe Hubbard – A retired Army National Guard Sergeant First Class, Hubbard served over 21 years, including a deployment to Iraq where he led security for the 153rd Battalion. A letter from retired Major General Kendall Penn noted that Hubbard led hundreds of successful patrols in dangerous territory without losing a single soldier, epitomizing the "Mission First—Soldiers Always" motto.
- Citizen of the Year: Dr. Michael Young – Since 1975, Dr. Young has treated generations of Nevada County families. Known as "Mr. Rotary," he is a pillar of the First Methodist Church and a constant supporter of local youth. He was specifically recognized for his humble service, often found washing dishes behind the scenes at community feeds.
As the final awards were handed out and the silent auction concluded, the message of the night was clear: while the town may be small, the impact of its citizens is immeasurable. Congratulations to all the 2026 winners!
