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Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Midway University to honor Lexington's Isabel Yates and family of nationally known public-relations executive

Bluegrass civic leader and former Midway retailer Isabel Yates will receive Midway University's Pinkerton Vision Award at the school's annual Spotlight Awards in May 26.

The university will also present its Legacy Award to the family of the late Jim Bowling, a nationally regarded public-relations executive. He, his wife and daughter have been trustees of the school and still have kin in Midway.

Isabel Yates
The Pinkerton Vision Award "honors a person who has shown tremendous leadership and innovative thinking in her field while serving as a role model to others," the university said in a press release. Yates has been vice mayor of Lexington and chair of many civic and philanthropic organizations in the city, and is chair of Friends of the Kentucky Theatre. She once owned Track Two, a dress shop in Midway.

"Her tireless work and selfless service have made her a beloved figure in Central Kentucky," Midway President John Marsden said.

Jim Bowling
The Legacy Award "honors those who have given significant time, service and support to Midway University," the school's release said. A member of the James C. Bowling family has been on the Board of Trustees since 1962. After he died in 1997, Jim Bowling was succeeded by his wife Ann, who took emeritus status in 2009. Their daughter, Belinda Bowling Metzger, has been a trustee since 2012.

Bowling was born in Covington, raised in Paducah, attended the University of Kentucky, served in World War II and completed his degree from the University of Louisville. He worked for Philip Morris Cos. from 1951 until his retirement in 1986, "all the while maintaining a strong connection to his home state of Kentucky and especially to Midway University and the City of Midway, where family members are still living," the release said.

"The Bowling family has been a constant presence at this institution for more than 50 years," said Marsden. "By sharing their time and support, the family has played an integral role in fostering growth and positive change at the university."

This year's Spotlight Awards will be held on the campus Thursday, May 26. The keynote speaker will be Craig King, President and CEO of RJ Corman Railroad Group. The event is presented by Community Trust Bank with additional sponsorships from Hutch Chevrolet/Buick/GMC, Keeneland, WLEX-TV and Woodford Reserve. For more information, including how to buy tickets, visit www.midway.edu/Spotlight or call 859-846-5300.

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