GLASGOW — Two women were recognized with awards Tuesday morning at the annual Achievement in Business Awards news conference.
The Barren County Chamber of Commerce and Barren Inc. announced the recipients of the Magnolia Award and Small Business Person of the Year. The event was created to show appreciation and honor the local small business community.
This year’s Magnolia Award went to Jannell Pedigo, an employee with South Central Bank. Houchens Industries sponsors the award. It recognizes a female leader who demonstrates excellence in the Barren County community.
Pedigo has worked with the bank since 2006 and has been described by her co-workers as having the utmost respect and professionalism. She is also a member of the Glasgow Rotary Club and has served as past president of the Morning Club.
Pedigo served a vital role on the Community Medical Care, Inc. board from 2004 until 2021. CMC is a local grassroots charity that began in 2002 to assist Barren County’s low-income seniors. In 2022, when CMC became a program of the T.J. Community Mission Foundation, Jannell took a seat on the board of the Foundation. Her servant’s heart has made a huge impact on Barren County and made her the perfect candidate for this year’s award.
The Small Business Person of the Year sponsored by The Peoples Bank went to Beth Wagner with Simple Life Properties. This award recognizes a local business owner who demonstrates excellence in entrepreneurship and operating a successful small business. Wagoner has been at the forefront of the revitalization efforts of downtown Glasgow.
In 2020, she began her efforts and started the renovation process of multiple buildings in Glasgow and Barren County. Her efforts not only created two new Airbnb’s with a third on the way for her property company and Barren County but also made it possible for other local entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and open a business in the community.
Since 2022 three new businesses have opened in the newly renovated spaces, these include Spring Valley Boutique, Local Roots, and Sweet Basil Bake Shop & Mercantile.
“The time, investment, and commitment from Beth have created a better community and solidified her as the top choice for this year’s award.,” a news release said. “Community leaders and small businesses play a vital role in creating a thriving community. Barren County is fortunate to be in a region where there is a bountiful supply of leaders and where local businesses are embraced and supported by the community.”
“Both Jannell and Beth are great examples of excellence in the Barren County community. Individuals and members like them help continue to lead our community forward and provide a positive and lasting impact to our region,” said Chamber President & CEO Maureen Carpenter.
Jannell and Beth will be recognized and presented with their official awards at the Achievement in Business Awards Luncheon on May 4, where they will serve as the keynote speakers for the event. The Chamber will also be announcing the 2023 Administrative Professional of the Year, Farmer of the Year, and Small Business of the Year at the luncheon.
