Historic Main Street Oxford hosted its third annual meeting breakfast and awards ceremony on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at The Studio of the Oxford Performing Arts Center with sponsorship by First Bank of Alabama.

HMSO director Hunter Gentry reviewed the year’s accomplishments, which included six new businesses, $800,000 in private investment, and two Main Street Alabama Awards of Excellence.

“Downtown Oxford is expanding, and it’s amazing to watch,” said Mayor Alton Craft. “It is because of you – the merchants – who took pride in bringing your business to downtown. You have made Oxford what it is. I am proud of what Main Street has become and what you have made it.”

The Downtown Business of the Year honor went to The Vine Chiropractic, which “embodies the spirit of Historic Downtown Oxford – service-driven, community-focused, and committed to sustainable growth.”

The Downtown Employee of the Year honor went to Allie Goggans “whose dedication, leadership, and heart make a profound difference every single day” with her work at Team for Kids Pediatric Therapy Clinic.

The Volunteer of the Year honor went to Greg Hethcox, “whose steady presence, servant leadership, and unwavering reliability have made a tremendous difference in our downtown efforts.”

The inaugural Legacy Award, created to recognize businesses whose lasting impact has helped shape the identity of our community, was presented to the Bentley family, who were the longtime owners/operators of Oxford Cleaners.

“For nearly eight decades, this family-owned business exemplified dedication, reliability, and service,” the honor stated. “Their impact on Oxford – both personal and professional – cannot be overstated.”