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BOARD OF DIRECTORS p . 5 0
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NEW MEMBERS
Bonnie Rae Boutique
JMJ Construction
River City Pickleball Club
Boutique 54
Julep Home and Gift, LLC
RYco Jewelers
Byron & Barclay
Junior Achievement of West Kentucky, Inc.
Sam’s Club
Kamuf, Pace & Kamuf
Schwartz Heating & Cooling Inc.
Kentucky Skin Cancer Center, Robert Skaggs, M.D.,F.A.A.D
SKY Property Management
ADM Industries, Inc. Bakos Party Rental Big Rock Services
Cabinotch Cambron Body Shop, Inc. CASA of Ohio Valley
BM Investments, Inc DBA Beverage Barn
Cedarhurst of Owensboro
Castlen Steel, LLC
Century Property Management
Comfortech Heating & Cooling
Cheer Zone
CrossRoads Inc.
Chick-fil-A
Crowe’s Catering
Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service
Cub Express Auto Wash Dannheiser Fund for Kids DG FIT Displaced Pages Echelon Payments Solutions Group Frantz Building Services, Inc. Harding, Shymanski & Company, P.S.C.
Deig Brothers Lumber & Construction Diamond Lake Resort Disaster Team, Inc. Dismas Charities of Owensboro Drake’s East Daviess County Water Association, Inc.
Kidstop Children’s Boutique, LLC Kingdom Cords KORT Physical TherapyWesleyan Park Kroger Wine and Spirits Kroger Wine and Spirits Kurtz Auction & Realty Company L.A. Buford, Inc. Lance & Co. Jewelers Lighthouse Storage Lipscomb Restoration Solutions Lure Seafood and Grille
Specialty Foods Group, LLC, makers of Kentucky Legend Sprout and Sing St. Joseph Peace Mission for Children St. Mary of the Woods Catholic School State Farm Insurance, Seth Lawson Sterett Crane Strode Farms
Mancave for Men
Sunrise Children’s Services
Home2 Suites by Hilton Owensboro
Elder Pipe & Supply
Marco Technologies
Supreme Dream Realty
Elliott Farms
Metalsa Structural Products
Libertalia Coffee Co.
Tally’s Towing & Service
Evolution Wellness and Primary Care
Michael J Gross, LLC
M Squared Marketing Magnolia Mercantile
F. C. Tucker Emge Realtors
Thacker, Hodskins, & Knight LLP
Midwest Ear Nose & Throat, Head & Neck Surgery (operated by Ohio County Healthcare)
The Chad Lake Foundation (CLF)
Milliken & Company Owensboro Specialty Polymers
The Cupola Club
Nation’s Medicines
Famous Bistro
NerdBrand
Federal Fire and Security
Outback Lawn and Landscape
First Kentucky Bank
Owens Construction
Gateway Urgent Care LLC
Mudd’s Furniture Showrooms, Inc.
Pathfinders Counseling
Goodwood Owensboro
Noble Locksmith Tristate
Premier Fire & Security
Green River Area Federal Credit Union
Oney’s Apartments, LLC
The Salvation Army
Opportunity Center of Owensboro
The Skin Therapist
Pure Barre Owensboro Roof Angel Russell Duty, Attorney at Law Secret Castle Toys and Games Spectrum TALK Storage & Rentals LLC Terracon Consultants, Inc. The Buckle, Inc The Mobile RN The Way Agency
Green River Building Industry Association Green River District Health Department Gulfstream Commercial Services, LLC HAO Properties Harold’s Economy Cleaners & Laundry Hayden Farms
Tucker’s Treehouse
Healthy Brain & Body- A Holistic Co
Visiting Angels-Owensboro
Hollison, LLC Homes by Benny Clark, Inc.
RENEWALS Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Audubon Federal Credit Union Ballard Construction Custom Homes Inc.
Husk Signs IMPACT 100 Owensboro Inc. Industrial Mold and Machine Co, Inc.
Owensboro Country Club Owensboro Federal Credit Union
The Cottage Farm Stand
The Empowerment Academy, Inc The Olive Garden Restaurant
Toyotetsu Mid America Triple A Exteriors LLC
Owensboro Health
UniFirst Corporation
Owensboro Medical Practice, PLLC
University of Louisville School of Nursing-Owensboro Extension
Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission Owensboro-SHRM
Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph
Pasture Belt Farms, LLC
Vincent Electric LLC
Pat Hayden Moving
Wedding Thompson Orthodontics
Payne Construction & Remodeling, LLC Pediatric Dentistry of Owensboro Perfection Inc. Piggy Express LLC Raymond James
Westerfield Electric, LLC Western Kentucky University in Owensboro White Chateau at Cecil Farms
Integrity Outdoor Living
RBS Design Group Architecture
Windy Hollow Biscuit House
J.J. Fosters
Riney Farms
Wonder Boy Media
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FROM THE CHAMBER
H
appy New Year from our Chamber team! Welcome to the Chamber Current, a collaboration between the Owensboro Chamber of Commerce and the talented team of Owensboro Living. It’s a new year with a new leader at the helm of the 113-year-old Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. I can’t begin to describe the excitement I have to be a part of the amazing team that makes up the Chamber. It’s an absolute honor to carry the torch that burned so brightly under the leadership of former Chamber President & CEO Candance Castlen Brake. Thanks to the hard work of our staff, board and volunteers, our membership has grown to well over a thousand members. Those businesses and organizations both large and small share our belief that what makes Owensboro Greater is the talent and hard work of our people. It’s an incredible responsibility to serve our members that we do not take lightly or for granted. Joining the Chamber means you’re joining a family that believes in our community. If your business is new to Greater Owensboro or you’ve been on the fence wondering what the Chamber can offer you, we’d like to personally invite you to the conversation. There’s a seat at the table for everyone. The Chamber Current shares Owensboro’s story one success at a time. We’d love to help you write your next chapter.
DAVE KIRK Chamber President & CEO
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R O O ST E R B O O ST E R R ECA P NOVEMBER The November Rooster Booster, sponsored by Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service and Daviess County Farm Bureau, highlighted the region’s agricultural heritage and the innovation shaping its future. The program featured Dr. Laura Stephenson, Vice President for Land-Grant Engagement and Dean of the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Drawing from decades of leadership in Cooperative Extension across Kentucky and Tennessee, Dr. Stephenson shared insights on the evolving challenges and opportunities in agriculture, workforce training, and rural community development. The event also included a preview of Shop Owensboro, Powered by Independence Bank, outlining participating businesses and how the initiative encourages holiday shoppers to support local. Attendees had the chance to win Golden Tickets, granting VIP access to the Shop Owensboro Kickoff and early entry to receive exclusive green shopping bags filled with discounts and offers from local merchants.
Sponsors:
Speaker:
DR. AARON THOMPSON
Vice President for Land-Grant Engagement and Dean of the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.
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HONORING CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE DECEMBER The December Rooster Booster brought a full crowd to the MidAmerica Jet Hangar to honor Candance Castlen Brake during her final program as President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by German American Bank, the breakfast event offered a high-energy atmosphere as members gathered to celebrate Candance’s leadership and community impact. The hangar was transformed with Chamber colors and lighting, creating a festive and meaningful setting for the morning. Welborn’s Events and Bakos Party Rentals provided décor, and The Eric Group managed staging, audio, and video. Breakfast and coffee were served by Ole South Barbecue, with additional coffee provided by Moonlite. Wonder Boy Media produced the tribute video, and the OwensboroDaviess County Regional Airport hosted the venue. The program followed a traditional Rooster Booster structure, including a welcome, musical selections, city recognition, and presentations from regional and federal representatives. The agenda highlighted Brake’s civic leadership, business advocacy, and her influence throughout her Chamber tenure. Brake addressed the audience with sincere appreciation for Owensboro’s small business community and the opportunity to serve them. The tribute video blended reflection and humor, capturing her role as a connector, advocate, and champion for local business. Her leadership has strengthened the Chamber’s role in business development and inspired collaboration throughout the region. A lighthearted closing message from the Chamber staff offered a joyful end to the morning and celebrated the meaningful relationships created through years of service. Rooster Booster served as a fitting farewell to a leader whose dedication has helped shape the Greater Owensboro community.
Sponsor:
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CHAMBER MEMBERS OF THE WEEK
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century. Today, with a membership base of nearly 1,000, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives, serving as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
NOVEMBER
HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE OF WESTERN KENTUCKY
Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Kentucky provides compassionate end-of-life care, palliative support, and bereavement services to individuals and families across the region. Their inpatient facility, the Heartford House, offers a home-like environment for patients who need a higher level of comfort and care.
GET UP AND GO TRAVEL COMPANY
Get Up and Go Travel Company is a luxury travel advising service specializing in all-inclusive resorts, cruises, group travel, guided tours, Europe trips, theme parks, and more. Their mission is to turn every client’s travel dreams into stress-free, customized, unforgettable vacations.
CARE NET OF OWENSBORO
Care Net Owensboro is a faith-based nonprofit offering free and confidential services including pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, prenatal education, STD testing/treatment, and ongoing parenting support. Their mission is to empower individuals and families with resources, compassion, and practical help during pregnancy-related decisions.
HOLES TO GO OWENSBORO
Holes to Go Owensboro is a mobile mini-golf company that brings a complete nine-hole course — including clubs, balls, and scorecards — directly to homes, parties, schools, churches, and events. They handle full setup and teardown, making it an easy, fun entertainment option for all ages.
CHAMBER AMBASSADOR O F T H E M O N T H NOVEMBER
MINGA TROGDLEN
Minga Trogdlen and her husband Harley are lifelong residents of Owensboro. After a 48 year career in banking, Trogdlen retired in the summer of 2023 and began working for Owensboro Christian Church as their care and connections coordinator. She has served on numerous boards over the years, and currently serves on the Owensboro Public School’s Foundation Board as Treasurer. Trogdlen, her husband, and their three daughters are all proud Owensboro High School graduates. Her favorite pastime is spending time spoiling their eight grandchildren.
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DECEMBER
OWENSBORO NUTRITION
Owensboro Nutrition serves sugar-free, vitamin-packed green-tea–based energy drinks in a wide range of creative flavors. It is known for seasonal menus, popular blends and customer connections.
ZAP ELECTRIC
Zap Electric is a licensed electrical contractor serving residential, commercial, and industrial clients with a focus on safety, reliability, and quality work. Their services include installations, repairs, upgrades, and full electrical system support.
HAROLD’S ECONOMY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY
Harold’s Economy Cleaners & Laundry is a third-generation, family-owned dry-cleaning business that has served Owensboro since 1958. They provide garment care, shirt laundry, and specialty cleaning services with a long-standing reputation for quality.
BUSINESS EQUIPMENT
Business Equipment is an authorized Kyocera printer and copier dealer that provides dependable document solutions for businesses of all sizes. The company also offers a full range of office supplies and office furniture, serving as a trusted, one-stop resource for creating efficient, well-equipped workplaces.
DECEMBER
CHARLOTTE NEWTON
Charlotte Newton is an insurance agent with Lawton Insurance and has served in the insurance industry for nearly 12 years. She is dedicated to educating her clients, ensuring they understand their coverage, and feel confident that it meets their needs. Deeply committed to her hometown, Newton serves on the boards of Friday After 5 and Crossroads to Hope Women & Children’s Shelter. She loves being hands-on in the Owensboro community and supporting organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives. Born and raised in Owensboro, Newton earned two associate degrees — while balancing full-time work and raising her four amazing children. Today, she is the proud mother of three daughters and one son, as well as a “grammy” to a 5-year-old granddaughter and a 3-year-old grandson, all of whom reside in Owensboro. J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 Owensboro Living
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G R E AT E R O W E N S B O R O C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Shawn Patterson 2026 Chair
CEO, SOUTHERN STAR CENTRAL GAS PIPELINES, INC.
Father Larry Hostetter
Vice-Chair, Administration PASTOR, ST. PIUS TENTH CATHOLIC CHURCH PRESIDENT EMERITUS, BRESCIA UNIVERSITY
Olga McKissic
Michael Johnson
DIRECTOR, WESTERN ACADEMY AT THE NEBLETT
FOUNDER, TRUTH OUTREACH, INC.
2025 Chair
Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta Chair-Elect
PRESIDENT AND CEO, RIVERVALLEY B E H AV I O R A L H E A LT H
Vice-Chair, Membership Development
Kyle Aud
Vice-Chair, Membership Services PRESIDENT AND CEO, CORNERSTONE COMMUNITY BANK
Bart Darrell, J.D.
Kerry Bailey
C H A N C E L LO R , H E A LT H F O R C E K E N T U C K Y PRESIDENT EMERITUS, KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE
HUMAN RESOURCES STRATEGIC BUSINESS PARTNER-SUPPLY CHAIN, UNIFIRST CORPORATION
Vice-Chair, Advocacy
Brenda Clayton
Board Member
Jacob Call
Vice-Chair, Finance
Board Member
BRENDA CLAYTON CPAS
MASTER DISTILLER, WESTERN KENTUCKY DISTILLING
Susan Montalvo-Gesser, J.D.
Tristan Durbin
Vice-Chair, Legal
CATHOLIC CHARITIES, DIOCESE OF OWENSBORO
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Board Member
DIRECTOR, OWENSBORO-DAVIESS COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT
Neel Ford
Board Member
Dr. Wendy Duvall Ex Officio
PARTNER, EM FORD
SUPERINTENDENT, OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Jim Gilles
Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen
Board Member
OWNER, HILL VIEW FARMS MARKET
Special Director, Daviess County Fiscal Court DAVIESS COUNTY FISCAL COURT
Anne Higgins
Board Member
OWNER, WILLOW & PINE MARKET AND MAGNOLIA MERCANTILE
City Commissioner Curtis Maglinger Special Director CITY OF OWENSBORO
Steve Johnson
Stephanie Bertram
PRESIDENT, REPRESENT GPA DIRECTOR, BLUEGRASS MUSIC INITIATIVE
B H G R E A LT Y
Board Member
Mark Marsh
Board Member PRESIDENT AND CEO, O W E N S B O R O H E A LT H
Chair, Chamber Young Professionals
2025 OUTGOING BOARD MEMBERS John Marshall Moore 2024 Chair
Suzanne Cecil White
MOORE AUTOMOTIVE TEAM AND MARSHALL VENTURES LEGENDS
Board Member
OWNER, CECIL FARMS PRODUCE, LLC AND WHITE CHATEAU
West County Commissioner Chris Castlen Special Director
DAVIESS COUNTY FISCAL COURT
Nick Oller
Board Member
DAVIESS COUNTY PRESIDENT, INDEPENDENCE BANK
Jared Revlett
Chair, Chamber Young Professionals OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS
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BETTER TOGETHER
MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS
Members helping Members is at the heart of Owensboro’s thriving small business and nonprofit community. This month, we’re highlighting two examples of this giving and collaborative spirit.
CHAMBER MEMBERS COLLABORATE TO SERVE DOWNTOWN TOGETHER In a true example of Chamber Members helping Members, Famous Bistro and The Pub on Second have teamed up to enhance the downtown Owensboro experience. Through their new partnership, the Bistro’s popular lunch menu — featuring grinders, pizzas, and Greek-inspired favorites—is now
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available after 4 p.m. at The Pub, Monday through Saturday. The collaboration allows The Pub to offer food service without a full kitchen, while giving Famous Bistro a way to extend their lunch offerings beyond regular dining hours. Customers simply call in their order from The Pub, and the Bistro delivers it right to their table. “It’s a win-win,” said Pub owner Bill Brown. “We sell more drinks, and they get to sell more of their great food.”
With limited seating and a small kitchen, Famous Bistro can’t offer lunch items during dinner service — but this creative solution keeps fans happy and foot traffic flowing downtown. Executive Chef Jared Bradley says it’s all about supporting each other. “We’re all in this together,” he said. “Anything that keeps people downtown and gives them a good experience — that’s something worth doing.”
LOCAL AUTHORS, LOCAL SUPPORT Two local authors and Chamber members recently celebrated the launch of their newest books with support from fellow Chamber businesses, highlighting the spirit of collaboration within Greater Owensboro’s creative and small business community. Brandon Cox, author of “It Goes With You,” hosted a book signing at Displaced Pages. Cox’s memoir chronicles his journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and offers readers a compelling narrative of personal challenge, discovery, and perseverance. The event drew local readers and Chamber supporters for an intimate conversation and signing experience. Jacqueline Jordan Russell, also a member of the Leadership Owensboro Class of 2026 and author of the novel “The Thing She Didn’t Tell Me” held a book signing at Confetti Boutique on Shop Small Saturday. Her event welcomed a steady stream of shoppers and community members eager to explore her newest title. J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 Owensboro Living
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
AT HOME SELF STORAGE
A TIME-HONORED TRADITION Ribbon Cuttings are so special to local businesses and organizations. The tradition of a Ribbon Cutting is most commonly known to celebrate a grand opening, but Chamber Members also use a Ribbon Cutting to celebrate renovations, anniversaries, new locations, and joining the Chamber. H.L. NEBLETT COMMUNITY CENTER PLAYGROUND
HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON
MEADOW HOUSE HOME, GIFT AND FLORAL
TUCKER’S TREEHOUSE
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