ANNE HIGGINS
SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION AND NEW CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER
Owensboro’s entrepreneurial spirit thrives on individuals who are passionate, innovative, and deeply connected to their community. Few embody this more than Anne Higgins, owner of Willow & Pine Market and one of the newest board members of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. With a love for home, family, and quality craftsmanship, Higgins brings a unique perspective to the Chamber, advocating for small businesses like her own.
A JOURNEY TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Higgins’ path to opening Willow & Pine Market in 2020 was not a traditional one. She spent years as a counselor at a Catholic middle school, but a combination of career aspirations and encouragement from her husband led her to explore new possibilities. While considering various business ideas — including a podcast and an organization business — her love for European markets, particularly the quaint and carefully curated shops of Germany where she once lived, sparked inspiration.
“I started thinking about my own family and how much time we spent around the table growing up,” Higgins said. “I wanted to bring something to Owensboro that could help create those same meaningful experiences for others.”
Willow & Pine was born from that vision. Specializing in everything from dinnerware and kitchen essentials to unique gifts and Polish Pottery, the store quickly became a downtown staple. The vibrant Polish Pottery, known for its handcrafted durability and stunning designs, remains the store’s signature product.
“People love it because it’s oven and dishwasher
safe, but also because it’s beautiful. Some collect it, some use it daily — it becomes part of their family traditions,” she shared.
A COMMUNITY THAT EMBRACES LOCAL
For Higgins, the most rewarding part of being a small business owner in Owensboro is the overwhelming support from the community.
“The people here truly care about supporting local businesses and nonprofit organizations,” she said. “I’ve met so many wonderful people, and it amazes me how visitors from all over the world come to downtown Owensboro and find their way into my store.”
As downtown continues to grow and thrive, Higgins takes pride in being part of the area’s resurgence.
“I love seeing people walking the streets, dining outside, and experiencing the charm of our city,” she said. “It’s exactly what I envisioned for Willow & Pine.”
A VOICE FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Now, as a new board member for the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, Higgins is eager to contribute her perspective as a small business owner.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this group. I’ve never crossed paths with many of these board members before, and I’m excited to learn from them,” she said.
She acknowledges the unique challenges small business owners face, describing the journey as both rewarding and, at times, isolating.
“Small businesses are the heart and soul of every community,” she said. “They’re what make people want to visit and even move here. I’m grateful for
the opportunity to be a voice for them and to help ensure that our local businesses continue to thrive.”
BALANCING BUSINESS, FAMILY, AND PASSION
Higgins wears many hats — entrepreneur, Chamber board member, wife, and mother to ten children. Staying present in all these roles is a challenge, but one she embraces.
“I have a new idea every five minutes,” she admitted with a laugh. “It can consume me if I let it, so I’ve had to establish firm boundaries with work and learn to delegate.”
In her free time, Higgins enjoys walking, sewing, cooking, and even the occasional Netflix binge. She also loves to travel, finding inspiration in new places and experiences.
A LOVE FOR OWENSBORO
Above all, Higgins is deeply inspired by Owensboro’s sense of pride.
“People here feel like they belong,” she said. “There’s something special about this city — it’s the perfect size, and people are proud to call it home.”
As she steps into her role with the Chamber of Commerce, Higgins is excited for the opportunities ahead. With her dedication to small businesses, community engagement, and family traditions, she is set to make a lasting impact on Owensboro’s future.
AWARD LUNCHEON, PRESENTED BY GERMAN
|
p.m. 22 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS/LEADERSHIP
ALUMNI VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: WENDELL FOSTER HALF MARATHON
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS FORMAL LUNCHEON, SPONSORED BY CONEXON Chamber of Commerce Third Floor Conference Room | 11:30 a.m. 27 ROOSTER BOOSTER, SPONSORED BY ODDBALL CREATIVE Owensboro Convention Center | 7:30 a.m.
17 LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO PHILANTHROPY, ARTS & CULTURE DAY
22 WONDER BOY MEDIA | EXPANDING YOUR DIGITAL FOOTPRINT - LUNCH & LEARN
24 INVESTORS LUNCHEON Chamber of
Third Floor Conference Room | 12 p.m.
26 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: ISSAC STERETT ADVENTURE FOUNDATION COMMUNITY CLEAN UP
30 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SOCIAL LUNCHEON Shiloh’s Lounge | 11:30 a.m.
ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP
JANUARY
The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce kicked off the year with its January Rooster Booster Breakfast, sponsored by the City of Owensboro and Daviess County Fiscal Court. The event featured the annual State of the City and County addresses from Mayor Tom Watson and Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen.
Watson, Owensboro’s longest-serving mayor, reflected on the city’s progress and shared plans for continued growth. Castlen, a longtime public servant with experience as a county and city commissioner, provided insight into the county’s financial health and future initiatives.
The event provided Chamber members and guests an opportunity to connect and gain firsthand insight into local government priorities for the year ahead.
FEBRUARY
At the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s February Rooster Booster, attendees heard from Owensboro native David Tandy, a partner at Dentons Bingham Greenbaum, who shared insights on economic development and public policy. Drawing from his tenure as Louisville Metro Council President and his work in government-business collaboration, Tandy discussed strategies for fostering growth and community transformation, including his role in shaping policies that led to major projects like the KFC Yum! Center.
RiverValley Behavioral Health, the event sponsor, highlighted its 2024 achievements, including creating 100 new jobs, completing a $10 million renovation of the RiverValley Center, and winning Business of the Year from the Chamber. With nearly 40 programs across 25 locations, RiverValley remains a key provider of behavioral health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental disability services in the region. Their commitment to community well-being was underscored by initiatives such as The BIRCH program for high-acuity youth and the opening of The Phoenix Center for crisis care.
Sponsors:
Sponsor: Speaker: David Tandy
NEW MEMBERS
Best Notary OBKY
Coupon Crazy
Foreman Watson Holtrey, LLP
Gray Cat Chimney Services
Help Office of Owensboro
Hinkle Contracting
It Takes a Village
Mom’s Cleaning Services LLC
Morning Pointe Assisted Living
Peoples Plus Inc
Print Media
Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky, Inc.
Strive Consulting
Troutman Creative LLC
Windridge Country Club
RENEWALS
20/20 Walker Consulting
AAA Exteriors LLC
Accurity Industrial Contractors, LLC
Acme Plumbing & Heating
Affordable Care Health Insurance, LLC
Air Evac Lifeteam
Alcoa Warrick Operations Altstadt’s
Alzheimer’s Association
American Engineers, Inc.
American Grease & Septic
Ashley Furniture
Atmos Energy Corporation
Aubrey’s Song Foundation for Eating Disorders
Audubon Area Community Services, Inc.
Autry’s Septic Tank Service, Inc.
B & B Extermination Inc
B & B Technologies
B&M Service Company
Baird
Ballard Construction Custom Homes Inc.
Barrel Heads Liquor Market & Tasting Bar
BCS
Beef O’Brady’s
Benchmark Properties, Inc
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum
Boardwalk Pipelines
Boulware Mission, Inc.
Brad Youngman, Daviess County Sheriff
Brescia University
Budget Blinds of Owensboro
C12 Group TriState / Ron Seib
Caldbeck Farm Enterprises
Carpenters Local Union #224
Catholic Diocese of Owensboro
Champion Ford Lincoln Mazda
Cheetah Clean Carwash - Hwy. 54
Chick-fil-A
City of Owensboro
Clemens, Guthrie & Wurth
Commodity Marketing Services
Commonwealth Title and Mortgage Services, Inc.
Community Ventures
Confetti Boutique
Dahl & Groezinger
Daviess County Public Schools
Dental Designs of Owensboro
Diamond Lake Resort
Domtar Paper Co., LLC
Dream Riders of Kentucky
E M Ford
Ebelhar Whitehead PLLC
eCig Source
Elliott Farms
En Vogue
Enterprise Truck Rental
Fastek Services, LLC
Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, Louisville Branch
First Kentucky Bank
First Presbyterian Church Friends of Sinners
Gilles Farms, LLC
Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc.
Goodfellows Club
Green River Distilling Company
Greenwell Chisholm
Haley-McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory
Hayden Precision Welding, LLC
Health First Community Health Center
HealthForce Kentucky
Helton Insurance Group
Huddle House
Impact Marketing Consultants
International Center of Kentucky
Ivy Trellis Floral & Gift
James H. Davis Funeral Home & Crematory
Kamuf Brothers Farms
Kenergy Corp.
Kuegel Farms
L. Steve Castlen Realtors, Tyler Shookman
Laborers Local #1392
Lamar Outdoor Advertising
Lawrence & Augusta Hager Educational Foundation
Legends
Lipscomb Hydra Cleaning / Professional Carpet
Cleaning
Lure Seafood and Grille
Malco Theatres
MediaWorks Advertising
Messenger-Inquirer, Inc.
Metalsa Structural Products
Moore Automotive- Chevrolet, GMC
Ms. Daisy B. James Muhlenberg Job Corps
Mulzer Crushed Stone, Inc (A CRH Company)
Ole South Barbeque
Oney’s Apartments, LLC
Opportunity Center of Owensboro
Owensboro Catholic Schools
Owensboro Goodwill Industries & Goodwill Job Placement Services
Owensboro Medical Practice, PLLC
Owensboro Regional Suicide Prevention Coalition
Owensboro Warehouse Leasing, LLC
Peacocks and Pearls Boutique
Peoples Bank
Puzzle Pieces, Inc.
Raymond James Red Wing Shoes
Smart Choice
Smith & Butterfield Office Products
South Central Bank, Inc.
Southern Tank & Manufacturing Co., Inc.
Spirit Spa LLC
Sunrise Children’s Services
The BHG Realty
The Cottage Farm Stand
The Empowerment Academy, Inc
The Owensboro Times
The Salvation Army
Thompson Benefits & Enrollment Group, LLC
Thompson Homes, Inc.
Trunnell’s Market & Gourmet Deli on 54
Twin Rivers Nursing and Rehab
Up Up and Away Balloon Creations, LLC
VFW Post #696
Vincent Electric LLC
Volunteer Owensboro
Ward Family Dentistry, PSC.
Warren Farms-Dustin Warren
WBKR/WOMI
Westerfield Electric, LLC
Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
Western Kentucky University - Continuing and Professional Development
Wills Animal Hospital
WKU Owensboro Alumni Chapter
Wright Implement
Yeiser Excavating Inc.
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.
RIZE AND SHINE SERVICES
After more than a decade in welding and fabrication, Zach Barrera traded sparks for sawdust and launched Rize and Shine Services, a residential contracting business specializing in home remodeling projects. Barrera, originally from West Palm Beach, Florida, started the company in April 2023 after moving to Owensboro in 2014. His business focuses on services such as flooring, siding, drywall, roofing, and painting. He said the company avoids plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work, instead subcontracting those services when needed.
NOBLE LOCKSMITH TRI-STATE
Ryan Clark, owner of Noble Locksmith Tri-State, is proud to serve the Owensboro area with a full range of locksmith solutions, including commercial, residential, and automotive services. While the company specializes in automotive locksmithing, offering key programming and digital security solutions, its services also extend to home rekeying, lock installation, and commercial security systems.
CHAMBER AMBASSADOR
JANUARY
IES
IES-KY, a family-owned electrical contracting business, has been serving the region since 2003, specializing in commercial and industrial projects. The company, led by owner and estimator Kurtis Frederick, relocated to Owensboro from McLean County in 2022 when Frederick took full ownership. The company offers electrical contracting services primarily for businesses and institutions, including healthcare facilities such as Owensboro Health. The company focuses on large-scale projects, such as remodels, expansions, and new construction, rather than residential service calls.
FRAME AND FLASH STUDIOS
Frame and Flash Studios, a first-of-its-kind rental studio for photographers, videographers, and content creators in Owensboro, continues to grow and evolve. Studio owners Nick Gray and Mary Lewe are celebrating the completion of major renovations that aim to better serve the local creative community. Since opening last May, Frame and Flash has provided access to a fully equipped indoor shooting environment, complete with backdrops, set pieces, lighting gear, and professional cameras. Now, with input from their clients, Gray and Lewe have transformed the space to include a larger open area and a new “psych wall” – a seamless curved backdrop ideal for studio photography.
OF THE MONTH
JANUARY
CHARLOTTE NEWTON
As a dedicated Chamber Ambassador, Charlotte Newton is passionate about supporting local businesses and strengthening the Owensboro community. An insurance agent at Houchens Insurance Group, she has nearly a decade of experience helping clients understand and secure the right coverage. Born and raised in Owensboro, Newton takes pride in her hometown and remains actively involved in its growth. While earning two associate degrees in business management and computer technology, she balanced a fulltime career and raising her four children. Now a proud grandmother, Newton embraces her busy life and continues to make a positive impact in the community she loves.
FEBRUARY
POSH MEDICAL SPA
Posh Medical Spa officially opened its doors in Owensboro on Dec. 12, 2024, bringing a focus on beautification and anti-aging services to the community. Owner Carolyn Niehaus, a lifelong Owensboro resident and nurse with 36 years of experience, said the spa is dedicated to helping clients feel their best in a comfortable, caring environment. The spa specializes in Botox and chemical peels, and it also offers a weight loss clinic centered around GLP-1 injections combined with counseling for safe and effective weight management.
BRIARPATCH
Established in 1971, Briarpatch has been a cherished dining destination in Owensboro for over five decades. Originally part of a 10-location franchise, it stands today as the sole remaining establishment, a testament to its enduring appeal. Known for its exceptional steaks and renowned salad bar, Briarpatch offers a menu of freshly prepared, from-scratch dishes. In 2021, local entrepreneurs Mike Courtney, Grady Harreld, and Joel White acquired the restaurant, committing to preserving its rich legacy while implementing thoughtful renovations to enhance the dining experience. Their efforts ensure that Briarpatch continues to be a beloved institution in the Owensboro community.
MUDD’S FURNITURE
Mudd’s Furniture, a staple in Owensboro, has been providing quality home furnishings for 73 years. The business began in 1951 as an auction house run by Lawrence and Callista Mudd, who were inspired by the desire to offer affordable, quality furniture for local homes. Their vision transformed the auction house into a full-fledged furniture store, continuing to serve the community for over seven decades. The business, now family-owned, has expanded its offerings to include furniture for every room, mattresses, and accessories. Customers also benefit from free delivery within 50 miles, and the store keeps its warehouse fully stocked with items available for immediate purchase.
SWANK STYLE & BOUTIQUE
Swank Style & Boutique doubles as a salon and boutique, offering various products and services. Located off the bypass on Byers Avenue, Swank boasts 13 stylists, two full-time nail technicians, and one esthetician. The full-service salon offers all hair services, ranging from the Keratin Smoothing System and Express Blow Out System to Dream Catchers hair extensions. Nail services include manicures, pedicures, and gel polish manicures. The licensed esthetician provides many skin care services, most notably permanent makeup services for brows.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership for the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce at kjones@owensboro.com
FEBRUARY
JENNIFER RICHARDSON
As a dedicated Chamber Ambassador, Jennifer Richardson is passionate about building connections and strengthening the Owensboro business community. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit and state roles, she specializes in fundraising, revenue development, and strategic partnerships. Since joining RiverPark Center as director of development in 2021, Richardson has focused on expanding its reach and impact. A Leadership Owensboro alum and certified Human Rights Consultant, she embraces collaboration, growth, and community engagement. Proud to call Owensboro home, Richardson is committed to making a lasting difference through her work and volunteer efforts.
CHAMBER AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: 2025 NOMINEES
EMERGING
Becca Bakes
Confetti Boutique
Julep Home and Gift
Kahawa Java
Optimize U Owensboro
Orangetheory Fitness
Something Borrowed
Spirit Spa
Strength Renewed
The Party Space Place
Windy Hollow Biscuit House
1-10 EMPLOYEES
Bella Ragaza Boutique
Bowen Tire Company
Brew Bridge
Byron and Barclay
Crazy Me Gifts & Apparel
Cromwell Media
Custom Audio-Video
Dermatology Center of Owensboro
Hafer
Ivey Trellis Floral
JJ Fosters
Musick Studios
Peacocks and Pearls Boutique
The Skin Therapist
Timesavers
Wonder Boy Media
11-50 EMPLOYEES
Brewco Marketing Group
Cedarhurst Senior Living
Houchens Insurance Group
Baird
RBS Design Group
Lure Seafood & Grille
TruNorth Treatment Center
51+ EMPLOYEES
Advanced Center for Orthopedic and Sports Medicine
Atmos Energy Corporation
Calumet Trace Senior Living
German American Bank
Kenergy Corporation
McEnaney Family McDonald’s
Owensboro Municipal Utilities
MANUFACTURING
Green River Distilling Company
Kimberly-Clark Corporation
Mizkan America
Western Kentucky Distilling Company
EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE
Daviess County Public Schools
HealthForce Kentucky
Inclusive Circles - Puzzle Pieces
Owensboro Catholic Schools
NONPROFIT OF THE YEAR - FINE ARTS
Owensboro Symphony
Theatre Workshop of Owensboro
Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
NONPROFIT OF THE YEARHUMAN NEEDS AND SERVICES
Beverly’s Hearty Slice
CASA of Ohio Valley
Friends of Sinners
Green River Asset Building
Coalition
Matthew 25 AIDS Services
New Beginnings
Opportunity Center of Owensboro
Senior Community Center Of Owensboro-Daviess County
St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter
The Chad Lake Foundation
United Way of the Ohio Valley
Wendell Foster
PRESENTING SPONSOR
AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE SPONSOR:
AFTER-PARTY SPONSOR:
RECEPTION SPONSOR:
PATIO PARTY SPONSOR:
PLATINUM SPONSORS:
Atmos Energy
German American Bank
Mizkan Owensboro
Racing and Gaming
RiverValley Behavioral Health
Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline
Swedish Match
Unifirst
US Bank
GOLD SPONSORS:
Big Rivers Electric Corporation
Boardwalk Pipelines
City of Owensboro
Daviess County Fiscal Court
Old National Bank
Optimize U Owensboro
Owensboro Daviess County
Regional Airport
South Central Bank
Houchens Insurance Group
Glenmore Distillery
SILVER SPONSORS:
323 Staffing Solutions
Baird
Brenda Clayton, CPA
Brescia University
Bryant Corp/Hampton Inn &
Suites Downtown Owensboro/ Waterfront
EM Ford Fastek
Four Seasons Heating & Cooling Hafer
Heritage Federal Credit Union
Independence Bank
Owensboro Community and Technical College
Owensboro Municipal Utilities
Owensboro Riverport Authority
Riney Hancock CPAs PSC
Southwire
LOCAL LOVE SPONSORS:
Byron & Barclay
Ivy Trellis Floral & Gift
The Skin Therapist
Western Academy at the Neblett
Western Kentucky Botanical
Gardens
Willow and Pine Market
PRINT SPONSOR:
Greenwell Chisholm
SPECIAL THANKS:
Becca Bakes
Blue Line Entertainment
Leisure Hut
Moonlite Bar-B-Q
On Site Images
RiverPark Center
Something Borrowed
The Eric Group
Trophy House
Welborn Floral and Events
CHAMBER AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: 2025 WINNERS
EMERGING THE PARTY SPACE PLACE
1-10 EMPLOYEES THE SKIN THERAPIST
11-50 EMPLOYEES BAIRD
51+ EMPLOYEES
GERMAN AMERICAN BANK
NONPROFIT - FINE ARTS WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN
NONPROFIT HUMAN NEEDS AND SERVICES
THE OPPORTUNITY CENTER
EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
HEALTHFORCE KY
MANUFACTURER
MIZKAN AMERICA
MINORITY OWNED DON MARIO’S
DIRECTOR W. CLAY H. FORD
CHAMBER AMBASSADOR
CHARLOTTE NEWTON
LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO CLASS MEMBER
RAFE BUCKNER
RICK KAMUF AGRIBUSINESS
CLINT HARDY AND THE DAVIESS COUNTY COOPERATIVE EXTENSION OFFICE TEAM
BILL YOUNG COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD SCOTT MCCAIN
LEGACY AWARD ANITA BURNETTE
CHAMBER MEMBER OF THE YEAR THE MILLER HOUSE
CHAMBER CELEBRATION BY THE NUMBERS
Sponsors: 47
Nominees: 101 Awards: 18
Small Business Vendors: 10
Confetti Cannons: 8
Attendees: 812
Up Lights: 30
Flowers: 700
OWENSBORO FRANKFORT
A GREATER OWENSBORO CHAMBER DAY RECAP
Greater Owensboro showed out in Frankfort! Attendees to the Greater Owensboro Chamber Day in Frankfort had the opportunity to sit in on legislative sessions of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, where our bluegrass friends from Owensboro opened up the session.
Attendees also met with state legislators and members of the executive branch, including Transportation Secretary Jim Gray, constitutional officers, Council on Postsecondary Education President Aaron Thompson, and Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Hembree Lambert.
The day ended with chamber and business leaders across Western Kentucky for West Kentucky Thank You Night, with special guests including Gov. Beshear, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, Congressman Jamie Comer, State Rep. Suzanne Miles, and of course, our own bluegrass players!
MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS
Members Helping Members is at the heart of Owensboro’s thriving small business community, where longtime business owners can pass the torch to fellow members who are eager to carry on their legacies. Recently, Elizabeth and Sharon Wilson took over Kidstop, a beloved children’s boutique, from longtime owners Jeanne and Greg Clark, ensuring its nearly 40-year tradition of exceptional service continues while expanding its offerings. Similarly, Meagan Cooley, owner of Meadow House Flowers & Gifts, merged her floral business with Simply Chic Home Accents after purchasing it from retiring owner Debi Ford, preserving its presence in downtown Owensboro. These transitions highlight the power of local connections, allowing cherished businesses to evolve while remaining in the hands of those who value and understand their community.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE: CYP’S 2025 VISION
The Greater Owensboro Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) look forward to a year full of exciting projects and opportunities in 2025.
CYP continues their monthly mentoring program, Guys and Ties, in which male members of CYP from various professional backgrounds meet with elementary and middle school students to focus on positive life skills. The students involved with the Guys and Ties program will be recognized at the May Rooster Booster, marking the second annual graduation in which students receive a suit to go along with the ties that they learned to tie.
Professional development and leadership skills are honed during CYP’s bimonthly formal luncheons as members hear from community leaders and entrepreneurs, while social luncheons provide opportunities for networking and collaborations. Coffee and Conversations are offered early mornings for those members that are not able to meet for lunch, and there are also several afternoon and evening events available for young professionals.
Following the unveiling of our Amped Up Artistry project in September 2024, CYP has launched phase II of the downtown beautification and placemaking project. In partnership with the Bluegrass Initiative, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the City of Owensboro,
CYP has commissioned artists to submit original works of art for a six-panel Bluegrass Music History and Roots Mural.
This new downtown public art partnership is aimed at celebrating our city’s place as the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World. CYP is inviting local artists, along with artists all over the world, to submit original pieces to be displayed outside the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum.
“We are excited to continue our focus on downtown Owensboro with this unique partnership,” said CYP Vice Chair Stephanie Bertram. “We enjoyed working with local artists to create something special last year for our Amped Up Artistry project, and we feel this adjacent project is going to continue our efforts to create quality placemaking in our community.”
Jared Revlett, Chair of Chamber Young Professionals, is looking forward to a strong year for CYP.
“We’re really proud of all the opportunities we are going to have for our members this year,” he said. “Throughout the year, we hope to meet with organization leaders to share with them the benefits of having their young professionals involved in our community and the opportunities we provide for them to do so.”
2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
SETTING THE STANDARD
Baird is a respected leader in financial services, deeply committed to giving back to the community and helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complexities of wealth management. Their team embraces a multigenerational approach to financial planning, ensuring a smooth and meaningful transfer of wealth across generations. With a strong tradition of personalized service and strategic succession planning, Baird has earned recognition for its unique ability to build lasting relationships with clients while supporting their long-term financial goals. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Business of the Year, 11-50 Employees award honors Baird’s dedication to providing exceptional service and its ongoing commitment to the Owensboro community.
AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR
INSPIRING CONFIDENCE
The Skin Therapist has redefined skincare in Owensboro, transforming from a one-room operation into a premier aesthetic destination in just a few short years. Founded by Madlyn Hyland at the age of 19, the business has flourished through innovation, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to client care. What began as a solo endeavor quickly expanded into a thriving practice with thousands of loyal clients, a state-of-the-art facility on Emory Drive, and a reputation for excellence. Hyland and her team are passionate about empowering clients with personalized treatments and education, ensuring lasting confidence in their skin. Their remarkable growth, commitment to the community, and industry-leading approach have earned them the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious 2025 Business of the Year Award in the 1-10 Employees category.
The 2025 Ambassador of the Year Award recognizes outstanding dedication to community engagement and Chamber involvement. This year’s recipient, Charlotte Newton of Houchens Insurance Group, exemplifies these values through her unwavering commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering connections. Charlotte actively seeks ways to help Chamber members thrive, consistently volunteering and uplifting fellow Ambassadors with her enthusiasm. With nearly a decade in the insurance industry, Charlotte prioritizes educating her clients while balancing a vibrant personal life in Owensboro, where she was born and raised. A devoted mother and grandmother, she takes pride in giving back to the community she loves.
ATHENA AWARD
The ATHENA Award is presented annually to an individual in our community who has achieved excellence in business or a profession, who has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in developing their leadership potential.
The 2025 ATHENA Award luncheon, presented by Owensboro Health and German American Bank, will be held on Wednesday, March 19 at 11 a.m. at the Owensboro Convention Center. An ATHENA Award recipient will be named along with other local awards.
Tickets may be purchased online or by calling Girls Inc. of Owensboro-Daviess County at 270-684-7833.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
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.
OWENSBORO RACING AND GAMING