Award presented at WCTE PBS’s Annual Dinner
WCTE PBS awarded Jackson Kayak’s Kyle Richardson the 2025 Upper Cumberland Neighbor of Year Award at the March 27 annual dinner event hosted at the Saltbox.
“The evening’s theme which was inspired by Mister Rogers made this recognition even more special,” according to a release by WCTE. “In early January, we asked the communities of the Upper Cumberland to nominate who they believe should be their county’s neighbor of the year which resulted in over 22 nominations from eight counties. It was then narrowed down to one County Volunteer of the Year which then went on to compete for the Upper Cumberland Neighbor of the Year Award.”
Voting lasted 10 days and 13,238 votes were collected. Of those votes, Richardson, who WCTE describes as “someone who truly lives out what it means to be a good neighbor” received 6,107.
“From serving his country to serving his community, Kyle has dedicated his time to helping children, the elderly, and anyone else in need. He was nominated for many reasons, some of those highlights include working with the Jackson County schools and nursing homes Angel Tree program,” according to the release.
Neighbor – Kyle Richardson (right) holds the 2025 Upper Cumberland Neighbor of Year Award.
WCTE officials want to thank those who participated in the nomination process and the annual event.
“… We look forward to doing it again next year,” according to the release. “We also wanted to share the counties Neighbor of the Year recipients. We want to congratulate everyone nominated and selected for this inaugural recognition.”
Recipients are as follows, according to WCTE:
- Heather Call, Putnam County Neighbor of the Year:
“Heather is a generous supporter of local businesses and always willing to go above and beyond for her community. She works hard in all she does, she is humble in her work and accepts everyone for who they are.”
- Gretta York, Fentress County Neighbor of the Year:
“Gretta is an incredible member of the community. She goes above and beyond to serve others. She has a caring heart and is a true light. She is a true example of being a good neighbor.”
- Bill Zechman, Warren County Neighbor of the Year:
“For more than four decades, Bill Zechman has exemplified the very essence of community service, dedicating his time, talents, and unwavering commitment to making Warren County a better place. Through every role he has undertaken—public official, journalist, civic leader, educator, and mentor—Bill Zechman has embodied what it means to be a good neighbor. His decades of service, both seen and unseen, have left an indelible mark on Warren County and beyond.”
- Robbie Melton, Overton County Neighbor of the Year:
“Robbie is always willing to help her neighbors in need, takes care of friends and family, and always thinks of others. She is a wonderful example of a public servant and woman in general. She is so humble and never asks for anything in return. Robbie is always willing to lift a hand to help.”
- Jim Grove, Cumberland County Neighbor of the Year:
“Jim is always there when the church, neighbors, or food pantries in the county need help. He has a servant heart who is always willing to lend a helping hand.”
- Shannon Minchey, Smith County Neighbor of the Year:
“Shannon is always willing to help his neighbors. On numerous occasions he has helped get cars out of ditches or cleared trees for his community. I would consider Shannon one of the best neighbors around.”
- Nick and April Patterson, Clay County Neighbors of the Year:
“Their shared passion for agriculture, community service, and education has translated into a series of impactful contributions, strengthening the Clay County community and rural Tennessee as a whole. Through their hard work, generosity, and unwavering faith, Nick and April Patterson have made a profound and lasting impact on Clay County’s economy, schools, families, and future.”
Photos courtesy of Cephas Ablakwa.
