Inside the Chamber
Ribbon Cutting: Pauley Hollow Distillery’s Farmhouse Tasting Room
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce celebrated the newly opened Pauley Hollow Distillery’s Farmhouse Tasting Room with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, August 21. Attendees enjoyed a guided tour of the tasting room, located in a 100-yearold family home, followed by tastings of signature cocktails made from Pauley Hollow’s celebrated line of craft spirits.
Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Josh and Jessica Martin, Pauley Hollow Distillery is the first legal distillery in Pike County, KY. Located in Forest Hills, the distillery has become known for its handcrafted spirits, all of which are distilled, aged, and bottled on-site. Their product line includes the Original Recipe Moonshine, Fuel of the Feud (made with water from the historic Randall McCoy Well), Robert’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Papa Nick’s Appalachian Apple Brandy, and several other unique offerings. Pauley Hollow is also experimenting with a Pre-Prohibition style aged rum, highlighting their commitment to quality and innovation.
The Martins were inspired to establish Pauley Hollow after years of making homemade wine from fruit grown on their family farm. Encouraged by family and friends, they took their passion for crafting local spirits and turned it into a thriving business. Their vision is to be one of the top-rated bourbons in Kentucky, known for quality, taste, hard work, and dedication. Pauley Hollow’s products have already garnered significant recognition, including praise from Michael
Veach, a bourbon historian and member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. Their Robert’s Reserve bourbon was voted Best Bourbon at the 2024 Maysville Uncorked festival, and their signature cocktail, The Kentucky Buck, won Best Cocktail at the Bourbon, Blades & Brews event in 2023.
The new Farmhouse Tasting Room marks an important milestone for Pauley Hollow as they continue to grow. Their products are available in more than 40 retail locations across Kentucky, as well as online in select states.
“We take pride in participating in community events such as Hillbilly Days, Moonshine, Music, and Makers Festival, HippieFest, and Pikeville Pride,” said Jessica Martin. “We hope that the expansion of the Moonshine Trail along with the side-by-side trail systems paired with the opening of our tasting room will help to boost tourism and economic growth in the community.”
“We are thrilled to support Pauley Hollow Distillery as they continue to grow and enhance our local community,” said Southeast Kentucky Chamber President Jordan Gibson. “Their commitment to quality and their drive to succeed exactly what make businesses in our region thrive, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for them.”
To make an appointment for a private tasting at the Pauley Hollow Distillery’s Farmhouse Tasting Room, please call (606) 422.4947. You can also follow them on Facebook for the latest information.
Johnson County High School National Civics Bee
The Kentucky Chamber Foundation recently hosted the National Civics Bee Kentucky State Finals at the Kentucky State Fair, where middle school students tested their civics knowledge in live quiz events and presented solutions to community issues before a panel of judges. The event, following local competitions held by chambers across the state, featured the top three finalists from each region.
Ava June Tackett of Johnson County emerged as the
winner, with Hillary Bohannon and Ava Bogard, both from Calloway County, securing second and third place. Tackett’s presentation focused on boosting voter engagement and civic leadership. She will represent Kentucky at the National Civics Bee in Washington, D.C., on November 12.
Judges for the event included Kentucky Secretary of State Michael G. Adams and other prominent leaders. The competition, organized in partnership with The Civic
School Freshman Wins Bee State Final
Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, aims to encourage middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, engage constructively in their communities, and foster greater trust in institutions.
Ashli Watts, President and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber, emphasized the importance of civic engagement, stating, “The Kentucky Chamber is proud to inspire young people to get involved in their communities and
understand their roles, rights, and responsibilities. We hope this event will continue to foster civic participation among students across the state.”
If you have a 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student, learn how to get involved with the 2024-2025 National Civics Bee Competition by going to wwww.sekchamber.com/ nationalcivicsbee
August’s Chamber Member StoneCrest
If you’re looking for a golfing experience that combines stunning views, top-notch facilities, and a dash of local charm, look no further than StoneCrest Golf Course in Prestonsburg, Kentucky! Opened in 2001, this gem is built on a reclaimed surface mine, making it not just a place to play golf but a testament to how this community has transformed its landscape into something truly special. StoneCrest is an 18-hole course that’s perfect whether you’re sneaking in a quick 9 or gearing up for the full 18. It’s open to the public, but if you find yourself falling in love with the rolling greens and breathtaking vistas (trust us, you will), memberships are available to make this your regular spot. With 30-40 scrambles hosted here each year, the course is a buzzing hub of activity and excitement.
But StoneCrest isn’t just about great golf—it’s about growing the game. Serving as the home course for the University of Pikeville, Alice Lloyd College, and nine local high schools, StoneCrest is dedicated to nurturing
the next generation of golfers. Their mindset? “These young kids are our future clientele,” and they’re pulling out all the stops to help these young stars shine. From high school and college tournaments to fun summer programs, StoneCrest is where future champions are born!
Recently, the course got a fresh new look with a major bunker renovation. The old sand traps were out, and brand-new ones with better drainage were in. This was just the start! StoneCrest is currently giving its tee boxes a makeover, and plans are in the works to improve drainage on the fairways. The course is getting better and better, so your game can, too!
If you think StoneCrest is just for daytime play, think again. Their Top Tracer range, now a year old, is where the action really heats up after the sun goes down. Imagine a Top Golf-like experience right here in Prestonsburg! The range is open late—8-9 pm Sunday through Thursday and 8-11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays—making it the
Member of the Month: Golf Course
perfect spot for some evening fun. Plus, with a fullservice bar and grill serving up food and drinks right at the bays, it’s the ultimate place to unwind and enjoy some friendly competition.
StoneCrest knows how to keep the fun rolling all week long. This summer, they offered free Top Tracer sessions for kids every Monday evening, and they threw a ladies’ night every Tuesday that was the talk of the town. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And it’s not just locals getting in on the action. With revamped stay-and-play packages, StoneCrest has been drawing visitors from Ohio, Tennessee, West Virginia, Michigan, and beyond. They’ve partnered with area hotels like Quality Inn, Jenny Wiley State Park, and Comfort Suites to make planning your golf getaway a breeze.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the golf course! StoneCrest is also home to an equestrian center that’s been completely
revitalized. With new lighting and a revamped track, it’s the perfect place to catch a horse show on the third Saturday of each month through October. Lessons are available, too, so whether you’re looking to improve your golf swing or your horseback riding skills, StoneCrest has got you covered.
Owned by the city of Prestonsburg and managed by StoneCrest Jenny Wiley Inc., this course is a community treasure that’s constantly evolving. Whether you’re here for a round of golf, a night out at the range, or just to soak in the beautiful surroundings, StoneCrest Golf Course is where great memories are made. So grab your clubs, bring your friends, and get ready to have some fun at Prestonsburg’s favorite golfing destination!
Chamber Holds Lunch & Learn with Kentucky Chamber’s Jon Dye
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce recently held a Lunch & Learn event featuring guest speaker Jon Dye from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. The event, which drew local business leaders, focused on the important topic of employersupported child care and the resources available to help employers provide this critical benefit.
During his presentation, Jon Dye discussed the Employer Child Care Assistance Partnership, a program designed to support businesses that want to offer child care assistance to their employees. Dye highlighted the availability of state funds that can match employer contributions, making it easier and more affordable for businesses to provide child care benefits.
“This partnership is a game-changer for both employers and employees,” said Dye. “By leveraging state funds, companies can offer child care assistance as part of their benefits package, helping to attract and retain top talent while supporting the workforce in a
meaningful way.”
The event underscored the Southeast Kentucky Chamber’s commitment to providing valuable resources and insights to its members, helping them navigate challenges and seize opportunities that enhance their business operations. Attendees left the event with actionable information on how to participate in the Employer Child Care Assistance Partnership and how it can benefit their organizations and employees.
“We were thrilled to have Jon Dye share such important information with our members,” said Jordan Gibson, President of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. “Child care is a pressing issue for many working families, and this partnership provides a practical solution that can make a real difference in our community.”
Surprise Patrol: Perry Distributors & Jigsaw Enterprises
On August 2nd, the Southeast Kentucky Chamber’s Surprise Patrol made special visits to Perry Distributors and Jigsaw Enterprises to show appreciation for their ongoing contributions to the region. Armed with cupcakes and balloons, the Chamber team set out to recognize these members in a meaningful way. Perry Distributors is a key player in the local economy, responsible for delivering beverages like Bud Light to gas stations and businesses throughout the area. Their work ensures that local establishments remain wellstocked with popular drinks, supporting the needs of the community on a daily basis. This visit was a small gesture to acknowledge the vital role they play in keeping the region’s businesses running smoothly. Jigsaw Enterprises, another standout member, specializes in large-scale earth-moving projects that have a lasting impact on the region’s infrastructure. One of their notable projects includes the development of the Walter’s Toyota Dealership, a significant addition
to the local economy. The Chamber’s visit highlighted Jigsaw Enterprises’ contributions to the area’s growth and development.
The Surprise Patrol is part of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber’s ongoing effort to recognize and celebrate its members. By honoring businesses like Perry Distributors and Jigsaw Enterprises, the Chamber emphasizes the importance of local businesses and their role in driving the region’s economic success. These visits not only bring smiles to the faces of hardworking employees but also reinforce the strong ties between the Chamber and its members.
