JIM GILLES
HILL VIEW FARMS MEATS
CAN YOU SHARE THE STORY OF HOW HILL VIEW FARMS MEATS GOT STARTED, YOUR JOURNEY INTO YOUR CURRENT ROLE, AND WHERE THE BUSINESS STANDS TODAY?
My family has been farming on the west side of Daviess County for generations. I am actually the fifth generation in my family to farm. We have raised a registered Angus cattle herd while also planting corn and soybeans, and we used to raise tobacco.
I actually never planned to come back to the farm after college. But after working elsewhere for a while and living away from home, something pulled me back. I saw an opportunity.
My dad and a family friend originally ran Hill View Farm Meats and sold large cuts and quantities of beef, but customers expressed interest in smaller cuts. Many customers had smaller families, and didn’t need the large portions that we were selling. When I returned home, I started listening to our customers. That’s when Hill View Farms Meats really began to take root. We started selling at the Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market in 2013, and by the end of 2016, we opened a retail location.
Now, we offer a full range of meat cuts — everything you’d find in a grocery store and even some hard-to-find options. We’re also passionate about supporting other small farms and businesses. Most of our products are locally sourced, from meats and dairy to vegetables and dry goods.
What started as a part-time operation is now a full-time business. We’re open every day
and work with several partners for processing and distribution to keep everything running smoothly.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY IN LIFE LOOK LIKE RUNNING HILL VIEW FARMS MEATS?
No two days are the same! One minute I’m coordinating deliveries and pickups, the next I’m knee-deep in order deadlines or checking in with our team. Hill View Farms Meats has about 10 part-time employees, and the farm itself has two full-time workers plus my dad and I.
Some days it’s planting, others it’s dealing with livestock, and sometimes we’re all just trying to keep up with the weather. Farmers wear so many hats — we’re mechanics, accountants, biologists, and sometimes even meteorologists. That variety is what keeps it exciting.
RUNNING A FARM, MANAGING A TEAM, MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS — AND DOING IT ALL AS A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER — IS NO SMALL FEAT. HOW DO YOU JUGGLE ALL THOSE RESPONSIBILITIES AND KEEP THINGS RUNNING SMOOTHLY?
I’ve been lucky to learn from great leaders —
my parents especially. My dad has farmed his whole life and has been a huge encouragement to me. I’ve also got a great team I can rely on and a strong support system. My parents and I have also gone through professional development programs, which has helped me grow significantly.
At the end of the day, it’s about multitasking, staying flexible, and having the right people beside you.
YOU REPRESENT OUR COMMUNITY ON BOTH A NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVEL, AND YOU ARE A PART OF A LOT OF INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS. TALK ABOUT THOSE EXPERIENCES AND THE LEADERSHIP ROLES YOU HOLD.
Leadership Owensboro is where it all started for me. It really opened the door to new relationships and opportunities. It helped me realize that there was so much about Owensboro that I didn’t know anything about. I always encourage everyone to do Leadership Owensboro, because it really is such an educational experience that provides a new perspective of our community.
Right now, I’m part of two statewide leadership programs, and one of them includes
an international component. That program took us to Morocco and Spain, and it was extremely eye opening for me. In Morocco, I saw just how hard people work simply to survive. It reminded me not to take anything for granted. The people were incredibly gracious and welcoming, and it really drove home how connected we all are, no matter where we live. It also reminded me of the simplicity of just being kind to one another.
AS A CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER REPRESENTING BOTH THE AGRICULTURE AND SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITIES, WHAT KIND OF IMPACT ARE YOU HOPING TO MAKE THROUGH YOUR ROLE?
Agriculture might seem small in numbers, but our impact is huge. I know we say it all the time, but we’re literally feeding our communities. I know it may sound cliche, but it really is true. I feel a real responsibility to be a voice for farmers and small business owners — people who work hard and often go unrecognized. It’s humbling to serve in this role because I know I’m representing more than just myself — I’m standing in for the people who keep our community running.
Every big business was once a small one. Small businesses are truly the backbone of any community.
WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT GROWING UP ON THE FARM?
There’s nothing quite like living and working on a farm. Sure, there were tough days, but looking back — it was a lot of fun. So many memories made with family. I learned life lessons that I still carry with me today, but there was plenty of laughter and joy, too.
CHAMBER CURRENT
NEW MEMBERS
Burger Theory
Doozie Doez
Advocates Working for Pet and Animal Welfare (AWPAW)
Kentucky Sound Stage
OBKY Gators Youth Basketball Organization
Chapter One Marketing
BBMK – BlueTeam
Dynamic Restoration LLC
University of Louisville Community Care Dental Clinic
Little Explorers Café
Bluegrass Eye Care
Kangen Detailing LEAP Services
Big Whiskey’s Owensboro
Hodges Heating and Cooling
Vass CDJR
Hagerman Plumbing & Heating Corporation KWG
Farm Boys Handyman Service
Daviess County Special Olympics
The Golf Emporium
Elite Installation Services LLC
Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Owensboro
Owensboro Dust Bowl Inc
Gifted Thrift
My Sisters Keeper
Quality Inn and Suites Rockport –Owensboro North
The Bee’s Knees Bakery + Goods LLC
Clean Green Portables LLC
Graceland of Owensboro
RENEWALS
54 Pizza Express - West
Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Aflac Keller & Associates, LLC
Aid the Homeless, Inc.
All About You Salon & Spa
Allergy and Asthma Specialists, PSC
Allstate Insurance, Hayden Agency
American Red Cross
Amvets # 119
Amvets Post # 75
Aquatic Resource Center
Audubon Area Community Care Clinic
Azzip Pizza Baird
Barron Commercial Group Becca Bakes, LLC
Bell Bank Mortgage
Bennett Insurance Agency, LLC
Berry Home Solutions, LLC
Bickett Tiling
Bicycle Owensboro
Big Rivers Electric Corporation
Bone Dry Roofing
Bowen Tire Company
Brandon Scott Mullins Memorial Foundation Briarpatch
Byrider Owensboro Auto Sales Care Net Owensboro
Cargill Inc
CherriCare Medical Equipment & Supply
CJ Kassinger Properties, LLC
Clark Distributing Co
Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club, Inc.
Coke Farms
Commonwealth Concrete Coatings LLC
Concept Sound and Light, Inc.
Contour Fabrication & Mechanical, Inc.
CRS OneSource
Daviess County Lions Club Fair, Inc.
Daviess County Property Valuation Administrator’s Office
Daviess Treatment Services
Days Inn
Dismas Charities of Owensboro
Domtar Converting & Distribution
Don Mario’s
Dunkin’ Donuts
Edward Jones - Financial Advisor, Kevin Young
Elder Pipe & Supply
Escape Today
Evansville Zoological Society
Faris Guitar Company
Farm Credit Mid-America, ACA
Fifth Third Bank
First United Bank
FLEX Wealth Management
Foster Farms
Fraternal Order of Police, Owensboro Lodge #16
Friday After 5
Glenmore Distillery
Grace Christian Academy of Owensboro Graceland of Owensboro
Great Harvest Bread Co.
Greater Owensboro Realtor Association
Habitat for Humanity of OwensboroDaviess Co.
Hagerman Plumbing & Heating Corporation
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown/ Waterfront
Harry Roberts Plumbing & Heating HawesWay, Inc.
Heartland Interpretation and Translation Services, LLC
Hobgood Landscaping, LLC
Houchens Insurance Group
HUB International, formally known Worth Insurance Group i3 Commerce Technology
Independence Bank
Integrity Outdoor Living
Integrity Testing and Inspection
Issac Sterett Adventure Foundation
Joys Cooking Classes| Joy-Full Meal Prep
Junior League of Owensboro
Kentucky Farm Bureau InsuranceMandie Hicks
Kentucky Mirror & Plate Glass Co., Inc.
Kentucky Wesleyan College
Kenway Distributors Incorporated
Koger Properties, LLC
Lafarge
Lark Electric, LLC
Leisure Hut of Owensboro, LLC
Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation
Marks CO., Inc.
Mary Kendall Campus, Kentucky United Methodist Children’s Homes
Mattingly’s Automotive Repair
Mellow Mushroom Owensboro
MentorKids Kentucky
Murphy Excavating, LLC
Musick Studios
New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services
NextEra Energy Resources
OASIS, Inc.
Oddball Creative
Optimize U Owensboro
Owensboro Brew Bridge
Owensboro Convention Center
Owensboro Family YMCA
Owensboro Regional Farmers Market
Owensboro Warehouse Leasing, LLC
P & H Fabrication & Machine
Pepsi Beverages Company
Puzzle Pieces, Inc.
Qualmedica Research, LLC.
RC Bratcher Radiator, Welding & Automotive
Red Wing Shoes
RepresentGPA Government and Public Affairs
Rhoads & Rhoads, PSC Owensboro
River Metals Recycling, LLC
RiverPark Center
RiverPark EyeCare, PLLC
RiverValley Behavioral Health
Robin’s Resale and Boutique Rotary Club of Owensboro
Schwartz Heating & Cooling Inc.
Schwartz Heating & Cooling Inc.
Shelter Insurance®, Krystal Roark Caudill
Shiloh’s Lounge
Shivmir Hospitality Management, Comfort Suites Owensboro
Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Diocesan Council of Western Kentucky, Inc.
Springs Urgent Care
St. Mary of the Woods Parish
Stonebridge Insurance Services, Inc.
Storm Insurance LLC - Scott Stoermer
Sullivan Mountjoy, PSC
Support Systems, LLC Take 10 Market
The BHG Realty, Robin Osborne Tri-State Mailing Systems, Inc.
TrueNorth Treatment Center, LLC Truist
United Auto Glass
United Way of the Ohio Valley Velotta Design
Veterans Empowered Together
Volunteers of America Mid-States Wax Works, LLC
Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center
WFIE TV 14
Willow and Pine Market, LLC
WKU Public Radio 89.5
Woodward Consulting, LLC
1 ROOSTER BOOSTER, SPONSORED BY NEW BEGINNINGS
7:30 a.m.
Owensboro Convention Center
9
13
BUILDING THE WORKFORCE GAP
9 a.m. | Chamber of Commerce
Third Floor Conference Room
CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
COFFEE & CONVERSATIONS
7:30 a.m. | Boujie Biscuit
13 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: PROJECT EMPOWER
14
9:20 a.m. | Estes Elementary School
RIBBON CUTTING: HOUSING AUTHORITY (CHURCHILL PARK)
11:30 a.m. | 2161 East 19th Street
15 LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO CHANGING OUR COMMUNITY DAY
YellowBanks Lawn and Landscape, LLC JUNE EVENTS
4
CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: SMART WEALTH STRATEGIES
11:30 a.m. | German American Bank Downtown Owensboro Branch
5 ROOSTER BOOSTER, SPONSORED BY WKU IN OWENSBORO
7:30 a.m.
Owensboro Convention Center 5
LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO GRADUATION
4:30 p.m. | Chamber of Commerce 11
RIBBON CUTTING: TEXAS ROADHOUSE 12:15 p.m. | 943 Moseley Road
21 CHAMBER AMBASSADOR FORMAL LUNCH MEETING
12 p.m. | Chamber of Commerce
Third Floor Conference Room
22 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS YAPPY HOUR
6 p.m. | The Miller House
28 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS FORMAL LUNCHEON
11:30 a.m. | Chamber of Commerce
Third Floor Conference Room
RSVP required to Ashtin Warren at awarren@owensboro.com
29 CHAMBER AFTER HOURS
4 p.m. | Wingate Inn
30 RIBBON CUTTING: VASS CDJR 12:15 p.m. | 3900 Frederica St.
12 CHAMBER AFTER HOURS
4 p.m. | Fairfield Inn
13 RIBBON CUTTING: MALONE WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
12:15 p.m. | 3333 Frederica St., Ste. 7
18 CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SOCIAL LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m.
20 RIBBON CUTTING: PAINT HEADQUARTERS 12:15 p.m. | 712 Kentucky Parkway
25 CHAMBER AMBASSADOR SOCIAL LUNCHEON 12 p.m. | Texas Roadhouse
ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP
MARCH 6
The Rooster Booster Breakfast, held March 6 and sponsored by Wendell Foster, highlighted powerful stories of perseverance, empathy, and inclusion. Moderated by the Chamber’s Director of Membership Kitty Jones, a panel — which featured self-advocates, caregivers, and professionals — shared personal experiences that challenged the Owensboro community to think differently about disability and inclusion. Panelists included Dr. Roger Humphrey, Eli Bennett, Charity Pinkston, and Megan Hickman — each offering a unique and moving perspective that underscored the importance of building a community where everyone belongs.
Hickman, a nurse assistant at Wendell Foster, inspired attendees with her story of overcoming educational barriers, reminding others with disabilities that their challenges can be used as motivation. Bennett shared his journey as a young legal guardian to his brother, emphasizing the ripple effect of support. Humphrey offered a heartfelt message as a parent, praising the audience’s attentiveness and the panel’s impact. Pinkston spoke from her experience as a service provider, stressing the value of trust and advocacy in care. The event served as a meaningful call to action for greater understanding, connection, and communitywide inclusion.
Sponsor:
MARCH 27
The March 27 Rooster Booster breakfast marked a historic 65th anniversary for the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, celebrating over six decades of communitybuilding and economic development. The special panel, featuring former Chamber President and Owensboro Mayor Dave Adkisson, longtime emcee Kirk Kirkpatrick, and current Chamber President Candance Castlen Brake, reflected on the event’s legacy and its pivotal role in shaping Owensboro. Sponsored by Oddball Creative, this milestone gathering highlighted how Rooster Booster, from its modest beginnings, has become one of Kentucky’s most influential networking events, serving as a vital platform for major announcements, local initiatives, and fostering connections among community leaders.
Sponsor:
Rooster Booster’s evolution mirrors the growth of Owensboro itself, adapting its format over time while maintaining its core purpose of bringing together business, civic, and community leaders. What began as a small gathering at Ponderosa Steakhouse has now become a must-attend event, regularly drawing hundreds. The event has been the launchpad for significant community projects like the William H. Natcher Bridge and the Owensboro Convention Center. As the Chamber looks to the future, Rooster Booster remains a cornerstone of local progress, continuing to engage diverse voices and keep the community informed and connected.
MARCH // APRIL
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.
HEALTHY BRAIN & BODY — A HOLISTIC CO.
Healthy Brain & Body – A Holistic Co. is bringing a unique, wellness-focused approach to the region, aiming to help clients restore their health and live optimally. Founded in 2024, the business was born from personal health struggles and a desire to share holistic healing practices that had been previously unavailable in the area.
COUPON CRAZY
A little over a year ago, Devin Taylor decided to take a leap. After advertising in Coupon Crazy for years, he saw an opportunity when the previous owner decided to retire. Now, Taylor and his mother Rita are running the publication as a small, family-operated business helping others grow their own. Coupon Crazy is a seasonal print publication that features, full- or half-page ads from local businesses. The publication is mailed to about 20,000 homes and businesses in targeted areas based on income demographics.
BONNIE RAE BOUTIQUE
Courtney Biggs has always had a love for fashion — a passion that was born during shopping trips with her grandmother, Bonnie Rae Biggs. That inspiration led to the creation of Bonnie Rae Boutique, which officially launched online on August 15, 2020. The boutique started with women’s clothing and has expanded over the years to include a wide range of accessories. Biggs said she focuses on offering quality pieces at affordable prices, and the store features everything from dressy work attire to casual, comfy looks.
HENDRICK SCREEN COMPANY
From museum displays at the St. Louis Arch to military installations in the Philippines and entrance mats in the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, Hendrick Screen Company’s custom metalwork can be found across the globe — all proudly manufactured in Owensboro. Now celebrating its 51st year, Hendrick Screen has evolved from a coal industry supplier to a global leader in custom stainless steel fabrication. The company’s work has been shipped to China, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Puerto Rico, and beyond — and is also featured in high-profile U.S. locations like the new Atlanta Braves stadium.
CHAMBER AMBASSADOR OF THE MONTH
JENNIFER RICHARDSON
Jennifer Richardson, director of development, joined RiverPark Center in September 2021, bringing a wealth of experience in resource development. Dedicated to expanding RiverPark Center’s reach, Richardson focuses on strengthening relationships and cultivating new partnerships that enhance the organization’s impact. Richardson refined her development expertise through over 20 years of experience in nonprofit and state roles, gaining valuable skills in fundraising, revenue forecasting, and public speaking. In addition to her extensive background in philanthropy, she is a Certified Human Rights Consultant and actively engaged in the community as a Chamber Ambassador and Leadership Owensboro alum. An adaptable and results-driven leader, Richardson embraces change with resilience and determination. As a collaborative professional who values data-driven strategies and continuous growth, she is proud to call Owensboro home and remains dedicated to making a lasting impact in her community.
AEREK AUTOMATION
Aerek Automation may be a new name in Owensboro’s business landscape, but its mission is already having an impact on the local industry. The company, founded by Owensboro native Eric Dennison, officially launched at the beginning of 2024 and offers a full range of industrial automation and engineering services. Aerek Automation specializes in industrial controls, offering Professionally Licensed Electrical Engineering services in both Kentucky and Indiana. Their work includes custom machine design and commissioning, automation and controls integration, electrical drawing packages, on-site training tailored to existing equipment, and deploying robots with advanced vision and sensor technologies to boost productivity and cut costs.
JESSICA DEMINEY, RAYMOND JAMES & ASSOCIATES, INC.
Jessica Deminey, an accredited asset management specialist with Raymond James & Associates, Inc., is helping individuals and families in Owensboro and beyond take control of their financial futures. Deminey joined Raymond James in 2014 and began her career as a registered sales associate, working alongside two financial advisors. In 2021, she transitioned into the firm’s Advisor Mastery Program to become a financial advisor herself. She currently sees clients out of the Raymond James office at 322 Frederica Street in Owensboro, with the main office located in Evansville on Eagle Crest Boulevard.
DOOZIE DOEZ
What began as blueberry cobblers on a family farm has grown into Doozie Doez, a one-woman baking business known for custom cakes, cookies, catered lunches, and unique desserts. Owned by Hanna Bailey, the business blends creativity, community, and comfort food — offering everything from cheesecake to her signature blueberry lemonade. Operating out of Bittel Hall’s kitchen and a mobile bakery trailer, Bailey brings joy to events across the region, staying true to her roots while building something entirely her own.
BERRY HOME SOLUTIONS
Berry Home Solutions is a trusted home remodeling company known for delivering high-quality, custom renovations. Since opening their doors, they’ve helped clients transform their spaces through a range of expert services — including kitchen and bathroom renovations, siding installation, and luxury vinyl flooring. Whether it’s adding a sleek countertop, installing a walkin shower, or upgrading a home’s exterior, Berry Home Solutions brings craftsmanship and care to every project.
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
DAN MARIGNY
As a dedicated Chamber Ambassador, Dan Marigny is passionate about community engagement and creating opportunities for others in the Owensboro area. As the employment coordinator at the International Center of Kentucky, he helps refugees navigate the workforce through job readiness training, employer outreach, and long-term support. A Muhlenberg County native, Marigny has dedicated his career to mentoring and advocacy, working in roles that support individuals from diverse backgrounds. Since moving back home, he has been actively involved in building connections, fostering inclusivity, and contributing to the community’s growth. He looks forward to continuing his efforts to make a meaningful impact and supporting those in need. APRIL
FRAMING HISTORY
On April 16, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Young Professionals (CYP), in partnership with the City of Owensboro and the Parks and Recreation Department, unveiled a powerful tribute to one of the city’s most influential native sons, Moneta Sleet Jr. The unveiling took place at Moneta Sleet Jr. Park and featured six newly installed outdoor story panels that chronicle Sleet’s extraordinary journey — from his Owensboro roots to his groundbreaking career as a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist. The panels, designed for all ages, especially children, celebrate Sleet’s legacy and educate visitors on the historic moments he captured, including his iconic image of Coretta Scott King at the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which made Sleet the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize for journalism.
The project builds on momentum sparked by the Leadership Owensboro Class of 2021, whose original initiative to recognize Sleet’s legacy led to the launch of the Through Sleet’s Eyes Festival in 2023. The festival — which featured an exhibit of Sleet’s work, a locally produced documentary A Fine Remembrance, and the performance Power of the Lens — garnered widespread community support and led to renaming the city park in his honor. The new story panels mark the latest chapter in a growing effort to keep Sleet’s contributions alive in the heart of his hometown.
“Moneta Sleet Jr. captured the depth of a movement through his camera lens—now, generations of Owensboro residents will walk through this park and see the world through his eyes,” said Ashtin Warren, director of talent programs.
GROWING GREATNESS
Western Kentucky Botanical Garden has been honored as this year’s Nonprofit of the Year in the Fine Arts category, celebrating its vital role as a peaceful, enriching destination for both locals and tourists. Under the leadership of Laurna Strehl, the garden has continued to blossom — introducing new projects, forming strong community partnerships, and serving as a haven for mental wellness and creativity. Strehl envisions the garden as a go-to spot for Owensboroans — a place where every day feels like a special event. With future upgrades on the horizon, she invites the community to visit with curiosity and joy: “Pack a lunch and bring bubbles, coloring books, a blanket…it’s not a formal garden. You can get off the path and explore.”
BANKING ON COMMUNITY
German American Bank has been named this year’s Business of the Year in the 51+ Employees category, recognized for its deep-rooted commitment to community and its unwavering dedication to helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive. With a strong presence throughout the region, their team members can be seen making a difference every day — whether through financial support, volunteerism, or partnerships that elevate quality of life. German American Bank believes that when communities thrive, their people prosper — and they’re proving it, one relationship at a time.
RAFE BUCKNER
LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO CLASS MEMBER OF THE YEAR
The 2024 Leadership Owensboro Class Member of the Year, chosen by fellow classmates, was awarded to Rafe Buckner for his selfless passion, leadership, and dedication to serving the community. His commitment to making Owensboro a better place each day truly inspired his peers. Congratulations, Rafe!
FARM CITY BREAKFAST GROWING TOGETHER
The 45th Annual Farm City Breakfast brought together local leaders, farmers, and advocates to celebrate the vital role of agriculture in the community. Hosted by the Daviess County Farm Bureau and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, the event featured Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell as the keynote speaker. Shell emphasized the importance of supporting young agricultural leaders, preserving farmland, and investing in education programs like FFA. Community leaders, including Chamber CEO Candance Brake and broadcaster Jeff Nalley, highlighted the enduring connection between rural and urban communities. The event underscored a shared commitment to advancing agriculture and fostering growth for future generations.
YIELD CONTEST WINNERS
2024 DAVIESS COUNTY KING CORN PRODUCTION CONTEST WINNER
SCOTT ZOGLMANN 333.47 bushels per acre
2024 DAVIESS COUNTY BOSS BEAN PRODUCTION CONTEST WINNER
JERRY AND J.W. O’BRYAN 112.48 bushels per acre
2024 DAVIESS COUNTY ELITE WHEAT PRODUCTION CONTEST WINNER
TANNER STROUP 123.14 bushels per acre
SPEAKER
Jonathan Shell, the 2025 Farm City Breakfast speaker, is Kentucky’s newly elected Agriculture Commissioner and a proud fifth-generation farmer from Garrard County. He and his father operate Shell Farms and Greenhouses, raising cattle and growing flowers, corn, and pumpkins. Shell brings his deep agricultural roots and strong values of food, faith, and family to his role, with a mission to support Kentucky farm families and ensure agriculture thrives across the state. A former state legislator and House Majority Floor Leader, Shell now leads with a focus on preserving Kentucky’s farming way of life while remaining a trusted resource for farmers.
HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Charlie Kamuf was honored with the 2025 Humanitarian Award in recognition of his lifelong dedication to enriching our community and his unwavering service to others. The award was accepted by his wife and three children.
MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS
Members Helping Members is at the heart of Owensboro’s thriving small business and nonprofit community. This month, we’re highlighting the clients at Puzzle Pieces who recently dedicated their time volunteering at Borrowed Hearts of Owensboro, a local nonprofit that supports foster families with essential items like clothing, hygiene products, and toys. The team helped sort donations and prepare for Easter. Puzzle Pieces prioritizes creating opportunities for their clients to engage in community service, as it not only builds essential life skills but also boosts confidence and reinforces the powerful message that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
In April, the Owensboro Symphony brought its educational program, Symphony Storytime, to the Daviess County Public Library. The event introduced young children to classical music through storytelling, featuring the book “The Planets.” As the story was read aloud, children enjoyed musical interludes from famous orchestral works, helping bring the music to life and making classical music more engaging and accessible for young audiences.
MIZKAN EXPANSION BREAKS GROUND IN OWENSBORO
UNIFIRST LAUNCHES $28M EXPANSION IN OWENSBORO
UniFirst Corporation broke ground on a $28 million expansion of its Distribution and Fulfillment Center in Owensboro, reinforcing its 27-year commitment to the region. The 109,000-square-foot addition will increase the facility’s size to 469,000 square feet, making it home to North America’s largest personalization and emblem manufacturing operation. The expansion includes advanced automation and sustainability upgrades, supporting over 520 employees and processing 20 million garments annually. Company and local leaders praised the investment as a bold step toward innovation, job growth, and continued partnership with the Owensboro community.
Mizkan America officially broke ground on a $156 million expansion project at its Owensboro facility, and was joined by Governor Andy Beshear and local leaders. The expansion will add 320,000 square feet, create 44 full-time jobs, and allow the plant to produce additional Mizkan brands like Holland House and Nakano rice vinegar. With nearly 1 million jars of pasta sauce already produced daily, the company’s nearly 50year presence in Owensboro continues to grow. Mizkan’s long-standing community support and economic investment solidify its role as a key contributor to the region’s workforce and future development.
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.
THE CENTER OF OWENSBORO-DAVIESS COUNTY MOBILE UNIT
SKY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
MONETA SLEET JR. PARK STORYBOOK TRAIL
MANCAVE FOR MEN