September/October 2023 Chamber Current

40 UNDER 40: CONGRATS TO THE 2023 HONOREES p. 42

CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: JOHN MARSHALL MOORE p. 60

CELEBRATING OUR PORTS: BIG WINS WITH PREMIER PORTS OF ENTRY p. 66

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UNDER

FORTY

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2023 GREATER OWENSBORO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 40 UNDER 40 HONOREES The following 40 individuals were nominated for 40 Under 40 based on their leadership and potential to influence our community. Each nominee was recognized as hardworking, bold, innovative, and going above and beyond to affect change in the workplace and in the community.

They are executives and directors of businesses and nonprofits. Educators and farmers. Some are fourth and fifth generation business owners while others are entrepreneurs and pioneers. All are shaping the future of Owensboro in their unique way.

After nominations were received, each nominee was sent an application. Those applications were carefully reviewed by an anonymous panel of judges on a selection committee that was independent of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce staff and board members. Final selections were made by that independent committee based on the nominee’s experience, contributions, and essay answers.

EDRIS AKBARI

SUMMER ALDRIDGE

CHRIS ANDERSON

STEPHANIE BERTRAM

JAKE BOSWELL

MEGAN CARTER

KATIE CECIL

DEMARCUS CURRY

SHARMY DAVIS

DIRK DOOPER

TRISTAN DURBIN

ELLEN EBELHAR

ASHLEY EVANS-SMITH

JAY FALLIN

BRANDON GILLES

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JIM GILLES

DAVID GRINNELL

MASON HEAD

ANDREW HOWARD

KARA HOWARD

ROSS HYL AND

JAMIE JOHNSON

JOSH KELLY

DAVE KIRK

AMANDA OWEN

TRAVIS OWSLEY

TREY PIPPIN

JARED REVLET T

RYAN RICHARDSON

CODY RUSSELBURG

BEN SKIADAS

SAMANTHA TAYLOR-KA’AI

SHAELIE VELEZ

MARIO VIZUET

ASHTIN WARREN

DUSTIN WARREN

SYDNEY WARREN

WILL WATHEN

SARA WILLIAMS

EMMY WOOSLEY

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KATIE CECIL, 36 Owner, Chief Floral Designer, Katie Ann Flowers LLC

Katie Cecil is a second-generation farmer at Cecil Farms Produce, bringing a dynamic perspective to the family legacy. After spending a decade working in marketing at Chick-fil-A, she returned to her roots in Owensboro, partnering with her dad, Gary Cecil, brother, Ryan Cecil and sister, Suzanne Cecil White, to enhance the farm’s produce division. This journey took an exciting turn as she ventured into wholesale fresh-cut flowers through the Southern Kentucky Floral Exchange, reaching florists from Owensboro to Nashville, TN. In 2020, she founded Katie Ann Flowers, LLC, specializing in wedding and event floral design, bringing her creativity to various celebrations across Kentucky.

Graduating in Business Administration from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 2009, Katie continued to expand her horizons. In 2023, she completed the Kentucky Agriculture Leadership Program (KALP) and in 2022, she successfully graduated from the Kentucky Farm Bureau LEAD Program. Her commitment to agricultural growth earned her the title of the 2022 Kentucky Farm Bureau Generation Bridge Advocate of the Year. Katie’s journey is a testament to her dedication and progressive spirit within the agricultural community she serves.

Summer is the senior director of engagement at Kentucky Wesleyan College, where she oversees the College’s alumni and career engagement efforts. She’s also the co-owner of Something Borrowed, which offers event rentals and event planning services.

A Madisonville native, Summer earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from KWC and her master’s in public administration from the University of Evansville.

She was named Hopkins County’s Citizen of the Year and to its 30 Under 30 list in 2019, co-founded the Hopkins County Young Professionals, and was named Staff Member of the Year at KWC in 2022. She is a graduate of both Leadership Hopkins County and Leadership Owensboro and is active in the Owensboro Rotary Club and Chamber Young Professionals.

Summer is married to her Wesleyan Sweetheart, Kirk, and they have two pups – Mako & Rupert.

SUMMER ALDRIDGE, 31 Senior Director of Engagement, Kentucky Wesleyan College

Dustin Warren, a farmer at Warren Farms in Daviess County, collaborates with brothers Jared and Cory to raise corn, soybeans, wheat, tobacco, hay, and cattle. He holds the role of Captain/EMT at St. Joseph Fire Department, contributes as a Daviess County Farm Bureau Board Member, and actively participates in the Daviess County Agricultural Development Council. Serving as a Daviess County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor, Dustin’s commitment to the land is evident. He is a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church and graduated from Owensboro Catholic High School in 2002.

DUSTIN WARREN, 39 Farmer, Warren Farms

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CHRIS ANDERSON, 39 VP of Operations, Sun Windows

Chris Anderson’s impactful journey is anchored in dedication and leadership. As the 4th generation part-owner and VP of Operations at Sun Windows Inc., he orchestrates day-to-day functions and strategic expansion, influencing the livelihoods of 160 families in Western Kentucky. With a fulfilling marriage of 15 years to his best friend Kellyann, they are parents to Anabelle (12), Adelyn (10), and Austin (4).

Hailing from Owensboro, Chris attended The Webb School in TN for high school, and then ventured to Stetson University and WKU, graduating with a degree in Finance. His professional path commenced in the banking industry in Austin, TX, but his aspiration for a career in the window industry steered him towards Charlotte, NC. Here, he took on the role of National Account Manager at Newell Rubbermaid’s window hardware division.

Collaborating with manufacturers across 13 states and 3 Canadian provinces, Chris honed his industry insights and strategic acumen.

A significant move brought him back to Owensboro, where he stepped into his family business, Sun Windows Inc., as the 4th generation leader. The financial knowledge garnered from his time in banking, combined with the time he spent learning the operational models of numerous other window manufacturers has been essential in the continuation of success and growth of Sun Windows. From 2018 to 2022 the Sun Windows team propelled the company to new heights, growing 142% in 4 years, creating dozens of new jobs in Owensboro, and positioning themselves as an industry leader in the premium window and door market.

Beyond his professional sphere, Chris’s influence extends to nonprofit and professional organizations. His commitment to the Home Builders Association of Kentucky as the current Associate Vice President showcases his advocacy for 4,000 employers and 30,000 employees statewide. With a deep-rooted passion for his family, community, and industry, Chris Anderson exemplifies the embodiment of success with a heart for growth and service.

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SHARMY DAVIS, 38

Sharmy Davis is the Dean of Student Affairs and Director of Cultural Diversity at Owensboro Community & Technical College.

Dean of Student Affairs, OCTC

As Dean, Davis oversees the Pathfinder Den, the Office of Cultural Diversity, the Experiential Learning Center, as well as the Pathfinder Pantry, and leads advising, transfer, and retention efforts.

Sharmy is a shining example of professionalism and has a proven record of success. She is deeply involved in the community, serving on multiple boards and recently participating in the Dancing with our Stars fundraiser for the Boulware Mission.

She played a key role in planning and executing the successful 2023 Regional Diversity Conference and was instrumental in creating the ACE mentoring program, a partnership with Owensboro Black Expo that offers high school students valuable college and career insights.

Davis graduated from the University of Maryland-Baltimore County with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. She also holds a Master in Public Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master in Business Administration degree from Midway University. Currently, she’s working towards completing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Kentucky.

Travis Owsley wears multiple hats as the founder of Beverly’s Hearty Slice, Director of Recreation at Genesis Senior Living, and Assistant Basketball Coach at Kentucky Wesleyan College.

Through his work in the field of senior living, Travis brings an extraordinary blend of passion, enthusiasm, and joy to the residents and the wider community. He established Beverly’s Hearty Slice in honor of his late mother, offering meals, assistance and supplies to those in need.

He shares a message of empowerment for local youth, emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges and the importance of fighting for the right reasons.

Travis has worked to collaborate with the community, exemplifying that positive change truly requires a village.

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TRAVIS OWSLEY, 35

Founder/Executive Director, Beverly’s Hearty Slice

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David Grinnell serves as the Executive Producer and Head of Production at Tanner+West, a journey that began when he filmed a wedding for a friend. Over the span of nearly nine years at Tanner+West, his unwavering commitment has been to elevate every production to a level where it can compete on a national stage in terms of creativity and execution. This dedication has yielded remarkable results, including 13 regional Emmy Awards and a prestigious national Emmy nomination during this time frame.

DAVID GRINNELL, 38 Producer, Tanner+West

David’s passion lies in storytelling that touches people’s hearts, and his ultimate goal is to produce visuals that immerse the audience in emotionally resonant moments. He firmly believes that in order to change someone’s mind, you must first move their heart. He values the profound lessons hidden within seemingly ordinary stories, which can teach us about resilience, perseverance, and the indomitable power of the human spirit. Every individual’s journey, no matter how “crazy” or “ordinary” it may seem, is a wellspring of inspiration.

Within Tanner+West, David is pivotal in various aspects, including writing, budgeting, planning, and executing photo and video shoots. Living in Owensboro for 23 years, he is now raising a family with his wife of 16 years, Sara, and their two daughters, Harper (9) and Luna (2).

MEGAN CARTER, 27 Physician Recruiter, Owensboro Health

Megan Carter grew up in Owensboro and attended Daviess County High School.

She graduated from the University of Kentucky in 2018 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, majoring in Marketing and Business Management. Megan has spent the last four years working for Owensboro Health, currently as a Physician Recruiter and previously working in Marketing/ Advertising. She is a graduate of the 2023 class of Leadership Owensboro and is on the Chamber Young Professionals Executive Committee. Megan is a member of the Junior League of Owensboro, previously serving on the Board of Directors, and is also a member of First Christian Church of Owensboro.

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MASON HEAD, 32

Assistant Principal, Apollo High School

As the Public Information Officer for Owensboro Public Schools Revlett is responsible for sharing the OPS story and developing community partnerships that benefit the student population.

After earning a Communication degree from Hanover College, Revlett spent several years broadcasting collegiate and professional sports and worked in corporate public relations in Louisville.

While at OPS, Revlett has served as President of the Kentucky School Public Relations Association and was named a Top 35 Under 35 School PR Professional by the National School PR Association in 2021.

Revlett is a strong proponent of public service and community engagement.

He serves on the local Girls Inc Board of Trustees, Bicycle Owensboro, the Chamber Young Professionals Executive Board and the city’s Community Development committee.

Revlett is married to his beautiful wife Liz. They are the proud parents of Biscuit the cavapoo who joined their family in July 2022.

JARED REVLETT, 33

Public Information Officer, OPS

ROSS HYLAND, 26 Owner, Lark Electric

Daviess County Public Schools would like to congratulate Mason Head for being named to the 2023 40 Under 40 list!

Mason Head is an Assistant Principal at Apollo High School where he has spent the entirety of his 11 years in education. He spent nine years working as an English teacher and is in his second year in his current role. While at Apollo, he has coached and sponsored various sports, clubs, and activities.

Mason’s education background includes Holy Angels Elementary, F.T. Burns Middle School, Apollo High School, Georgetown College (Undergraduate and Graduate), and Western Kentucky University (Graduate). He is the son of David and Jill Head and is married to Allie Head, who teaches English at Daviess County High School.

Mason and Allie have one beautiful daughter, and the family may most typically be found simply enjoying the splendors that are the whimsical jollies of a toddler - most especially going for a walk, swimming, playing with their pets (Jack, Maggie, and Cleo), or reading as a family. Mason chose education because he holds the belief that investing in our youth is one of our society’s chief responsibilities – one that is not to be taken lightly nor one that may be given anything less than the most sincere attention and most steadfast dedication.

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Lark Electric would like to congratulate Ross Hyland on his 40 Under 40 selection.

Ross started his business at 21 years old and now, at the age of 26, he has grown the organization to encompass Lark Electric, Patterson Westbrook Electric and Hyland Enterprises. Lark Electric was founded in 1963 by the Fulkerson family.

Since Ross purchased the company in 2021, Lark Electric has grown to one of the largest electrical contracting companies in the region.

“I want to thank all the people in my company for growing the business to where it is today,” Ross said.

“It truly is a team effort, and I am humbled to be selected for this award.”

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JOSH KELLY, 24

News Associate, Owensboro Times

Josh Kelly is a Reporter at Owensboro Times and Freelancer for Owensboro Living, covering any and all news of this city. He is an Owensboro native graduating from Owensboro High School before he attended Northern Kentucky University. Since returning home, he has become an integral part of the community, actively contributing to its journey forward.

He is a board member of the Chamber Young Professionals, Through Sleet’s Eyes Festival, Breaking the Cycle, a recent graduate of Leadership Owensboro 2023, and a member Rotary International - Owensboro Chapter and the National Association of Black Journalists. Outside of work, he enjoys coffee shops and watching the newest episode of Survivor.

RYAN RICHARDSON, 31 Managing Editor, Owensboro Times

Ryan Richardson has served as the Managing Editor for Owensboro Times since March 2020. He oversees the day-to-day operations and has helped the award-winning news outlet expand its presence and dedicated following in the area.

He previously served as the OT Sports Editor, a position he held since the company was founded in August 2018. Ryan also held several roles for weekly and daily newspapers in Tennessee and Kentucky before joining Owensboro Times. Ryan was born and raised in Gleason, a small town in northwest Tennessee. He attended Murray State University, where he obtained a degree in journalism in 2014 and where he met his wife Meghann, an Owensboro native. They have one daughter, Emery.

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JAMIE JOHNSON, 39 Center Director/Business Coach, Owensboro Small Business Development Center

AMANDA OWEN, 39

Founder/Executive Director, Puzzle Pieces

Jamie Johnson is the Director for the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. Over the last three years, she has helped local entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Johnson graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in Corporate and Organizational Communication. Previously, she has held positions at Marshall Ventures, a $2 million venture fund created by local investors, the Owensboro Convention Center, and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. Jamie and her husband Logan have two sons, Henry, and Simon. Her goal is to help make Owensboro a better place for families to live and work.

An Owensboro native, Trey Pippin attended the University of Louisville after being awarded the prestigious McConnell Scholarship.

TREY PIPPIN, 33

Sales Representative, Greenwell Chisholm

After working stints in both houses of Congress and even the Walt Disney World Resort, Trey served as a teacher and counselor with Daviess County Public Schools where his contributions to dual credit programs were recognized on a national level.

Leaning into his adventurous spirit, Trey transitioned to a role with Greenwell Chisholm, a longstanding staple of Owensboro’s small business community, and he’s having a blast.

He is most proud to be husband to Maddy and dad to their children— Sawyer and Ford.

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Amanda Owen left her job as a special education teacher over a decade ago to launch Puzzle Pieces, a nonprofit that serves individuals with disabilities, offering them more opportunities outside the classroom and after graduation. Amanda has grown Puzzle Pieces to serve more than 400 clients with a staff of over 100 and a $5 million operating budget. Puzzle Pieces offers clients social and vocational skills, supported employment, residential living, behavior therapy and the region’s only targeted autism programming.

Under Amanda’s leadership, Puzzle Pieces was named the 2019 Nonprofit of the Year by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce and Employment Opportunities (a division of Puzzle Pieces) was named the 2023 Education & Workforce Development Institution of the Year. Amanda is a founding member of the Nonprofit Coalition of Owensboro and was appointed to the Kentucky Employment First Council by Gov. Andy Beshear.

Driven by her unique perspective as a sibling to a brother with a disability and a nonprofit service provider, Amanda launched Pieces of Me, a social media platform where she reaches 3.5 million people. She has authored two children’s books and a gratitude journal for special needs moms, hosts a podcast, and coaches both special needs parents and female entrepreneurs across the country.

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Brandon Gilles currently serves as a Regional Vice President of Crop Insurance for Farm Credit Mid-America.

In this role, Brandon works with a dedicated team of insurance agents across Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas. Their team is known for their customer service and helping farmers and agribusinesses leverage opportunities and reduce risks.

Brandon earned his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky and his MBA from Northern Kentucky University. He joined the Farm Credit Mid-America team in 2013 where he managed a diverse lending portfolio as an agricultural loan officer.

During this time, he worked to build relationships with farmers and businesspeople in and around Owensboro.

Brandon is also a fifth-generation farmer and was raised on his family’s farm in western Daviess County. He functions in a part-time capacity on the farming operation now. Raising livestock, grain, and tobacco, he has gained an appreciation for the farm and all the lessons it has taught him. He has enjoyed learning all aspects of agriculture, from production to agricultural policy.

BRANDON GILLES, 33 Regional Vice President Insurance Services, Farm Credit Mid America

Brandon is passionate about giving back by being active in his community and state. He enjoys being involved in many agricultural and civic organizations and serves on multiple committees and boards.

DIRK DOOPER, 37

Assistant City Engineer, City of Owensboro

Dirk Dooper serves as the Assistant City Engineer for Owensboro, holding this role for 8 years. He oversees the city’s infrastructure, including streets, sidewalks, and storm sewers as well as reviews plans for new private developments. Dirk has successfully managed key construction projects like the Greenbelt Trail expansion and the Grover Cary Bridge Lights and is currently supervising the construction of the Owensboro Fire Training Center.

Born and raised in Owensboro, he’s the eldest of four siblings. Dirk graduated from Owensboro Catholic High School and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Kentucky. Outside work and his role as Treasurer for Friday After 5, he enjoys running, biking, hiking, and canoeing. Dirk is also a licensed private pilot and is working towards an instrument rating.

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BEN SKIADAS, 39

Owner/Operator, Lure Seafood & Grille

Ben Skiadas has significantly impacted the Owensboro food scene by continuing the family legacy at Famous Bistro, opening Lure Seafood and Grille, Lure Smoke Shack, and most recently The Lot Food Truck Park. He has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, collaboration, innovation, and dedication throughout his career, and he is always looking to help the community progress.

Throughout his career, Ben has consistently displayed a passion for pushing the culinary envelope and creating memorable and noteworthy events. His expertise, collaboration, and leadership have allowed him to partner with significant distilleries, breweries, and wineries for unique tasting events and philanthropic ventures. His commitment to excellence and drive for success have earned him a reputation as a highly respected professional in Kentucky.

While growing up in the culinary world, he still found time to pursue other passions, such as theatre and the fine arts, attending the prestigious theatre program at the University of Evansville. There he learned to express his passion and honed his skills as a visionary.

His love for the arts is always on display at his restaurants through artistic platings and cocktails as well as his insistence that live music and local art enhance the dining experience.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ben is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Actively participating in collaboration with the City, Friday After Five, Kentucky Motor Sports Week, Nicky Hayden Day, The Holiday Stroll, Owensboro Food and Beverage Coalition, Rally Point Events, Coalition for Workforce Diversity, The Bluegrass Legends Car Show and Food Truck Rally, and Beverly’s Hearty Slice.

Skiadas is always on the go in his pursuit of new experiences. Traveling to new places and finding unique experiences has profoundly affected his desire to bring world-class experiences to his hometown of Owensboro.

Ben is a proud son of Owensboro and looks forward to working toward building a better Owensboro for tomorrow. He is honored to be recognized as one of Owensboro’s 40 Under 40.

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SAMANTHA TAYLOR-KA’AI, 31

CODY RUSSELBURG, 36

Program Director, Audubon Area Community Care Clinic

Assistant Principal, Sutton Elementary School

Cody Russelburg, Assistant Principal at Sutton Elementary School, brings four years of leadership experience. Previously, a Social Studies Teacher and Boys Tennis Coach at Owensboro High School, he earned Teacher of the Year honors twice. His educational journey started at Newton Parrish Elementary and Owensboro High School, followed by University of Kentucky and currently, the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program at Western Kentucky University. A family man, Cody enjoys nine years of marriage with wife Jana, alongside daughters McKinley and Peyton. They love to watch any sport they can, especially if the players are wearing red and black, or blue and white. Cody is passionate about teaching, continuous learning, and thoughtful leadership.

Samantha Taylor-Kaai directs the Audubon Area Community Care Clinic, a crucial primary care provider for the underserved in Owensboro. Her role marries her dedication to serving the vulnerable with her healthcare administration expertise. Beyond work, Samantha is active in Owensboro’s nonprofits, including Junior League as membership chair and St. Stephens Cathedral’s social concerns ministries. She serves on the boards of Girls, Inc. and Crossroads Emergency Shelter for Women. Samantha recently completed her MBA at Brescia University and is pursuing a Doctorate of Business Administration with a Healthcare Administration emphasis at the University of the Cumberlands.

DeMarcus Curry is a dedicated professional, excelling in roles at U.S. Bank and Kroger. As the founder of the Owensboro Youth Empowerment Summit since 2007, he uplifts local youth.

DeMarcus is also a mentor in the Breaking the Cycle program and a board member of the ODC Drug Task Force. Recognized by Owensboro Black Expo, NAACP, and Owensboro Human Relations Commission, he’s an influential community figure. A family man, he’s been married to Aunjanae for a decade and is a proud father of three boys: Zion, ZayDen, and ZayVion. Beyond his community service, DeMarcus is a minister and musician at Tenth Street Missionary Baptist Church and Asbury United Methodist Church.

DEMARCUS CURRY, 36 Performing Operations, U.S. Bank

SYDNEY WARREN, 39 Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Brescia University

Brescia University would like to congratulate Sydney Warren, Vice President of Institutional Advancement on her 40 Under 40 selection. Sydney has served the University for over 10 years, taking on new responsibilities in the Advancement office several times before leading the team since 2019. She has a heart for Brescia’s students, faculty, staff and alumni and lives the values of Brescia Difference.

Sydney is grateful for the opportunity to work and raise her family in the Owensboro community. She is involved in many organizations, including the Owensboro Nonprofit Coalition and Impact 100, and teaches religious education in St. William’s Parish.

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WILL WATHEN, 38 Director, Supply Chain Services, Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline Inc

Edris Akbari is the Afghan Community Liaison for the International Center of Owensboro and co-owner of Pamir Afghan Cuisine restaurant. Edris holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and worked as a journalist for The Kabul Times from 2015-2021.

As the Afghan Community Liaison for the International Center of Owensboro, Akbari builds bridges between the Owensboro community, the Afghan community, and the entire refugee community. He also works to build connections, friendships, and unity by encouraging acceptance, understanding, and compassion between these groups of people.

Akbari and almost 200 other refugees left Afghanistan in September of 2021 and lived in Virginia for a couple of months before making their way to Owensboro.

Opening Pamir Afghan Cuisine was a way for Akbari to do something for the refugee community and for Owensboro people so they could experience good and new food.

The restaurant, housed in Windy Hollow Biscuit House, also serves as a gathering space for the Afghan community during their holidays and other celebrations.

Akbari is proud to have helped create a space that will bring joy and a piece of home to both his community and others in the Tri-State.

Will Wathen is the Director of Supply Chain Services at Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline where he manages the overall supply chain strategy as part of the executive leadership team. Before beginning work for Southern Star in 2019, Will served in the United States Marine Corps as a commissioned officer for nearly 11 years, culminating in the rank of Major. During his time in the Marines, Will held various leadership roles managing teams focused in supply chain, logistics, manpower management, and operations in support of two overseas deployments to Afghanistan and Spain.

Will was born and raised in Owensboro and has been married to his wife, Kelly, since 2008. He is the proud father of three daughters, Caroline, Lucy, and Maggie.

He attends Immaculate Parish and enjoys coaching youth sports, fishing, hunting, following UK athletics, and watching his girls dance. He is a 2023 graduate of Leadership Owensboro. Will holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and a Master of Science in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.

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EDRIS AKBARI, 33

Afghan Community Liason, International Center

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MARIO VIZUET, 31

Wealth Advisor, Old National Investments

Mario, who was born in Mexico City, moved to the US at age 12. With a business degree from Texas A&M University, he began his career at Old National Bank in 2016. Mario is deeply involved in the community. He has chaired the Chamber of Young Professionals, is an active volunteer in financial education for Junior Achievement, and a is consultant for Owensboro’s Community Development Committee. He’s a board member for Boys & Girls Club and Beverly’s Hearty Slice, as well as a 2018 Leadership Owensboro graduate. Beyond work, Mario cherishes family time, exercises, travels, plays golf and pickleball, and roots for his Texas A&M Aggies on college game day.

Ashtin Warren is the Director of Talent Programs for the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Bellarmine University where she studied abroad in both Spain and Argentina.

JIM GILLES, 35

Owner/Operator, Hill View Farms Meats

Jim Gilles is the 5th-generation to operate Gilles Farms, a 2,500-acre diversified farm in Daviess County that has been running for over a century. Their farm boasts corn, soybeans, hay production, wrapper tobacco, registered Angus beef cattle, pastured chickens and meat sales.

With a degree in agricultural economics and political science from the University of Kentucky, Jim founded Hill View Farms Meats in 2013, providing the community a local protein source. He added an on-farm retail store in 2016, which is a hub for Kentucky Proud and local products. Jim prioritizes product quality year-round while also contributing to several local and state boards across the Commonwealth and the Owensboro community engagement.

ASHTIN WARREN, 36 Director of Talent Programs, Chamber

In her role at the Chamber, Ashtin serves as the program director for Leadership Owensboro, a talent development program focused on educating, engaging, and empowering individuals to improve the quality of life in Greater Owensboro. In addition to Leadership Owensboro, Ashtin connects graduates of the program through Leadership Owensboro Alumni to increase awareness, participation, volunteer involvement and philanthropic commitment in our community.

Ashtin also serves as the staff liaison for Chamber Young Professionals, a talent retention and development program that creates strong ties in the community through corporate tours, professional development, social events, and philanthropy events and encourages those involved to serve as future community leaders.

Her role at the Chamber also includes coordinating the Educators in the Workplace program, a business and education partnership that exposes educators to the needs of regional employer to provide meaningful careers for their students beyond graduation.

Ashtin grew up working on a fourth-generation family farm, Riney Farms.

Ashtin is married to James, and together, they have two children, Jane and Pete.

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SHAELIE VELEZ, 30

Shaelie Velez is the Communications and Marketing Manager for the City of Owensboro. She moved to Owensboro after graduating from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016, and worked at 14 News as a reporter and morning anchor for six years.

Communications & Marketing Manager, City of Owensboro

Owensboro immediately felt like her home. She met and married her husband, Marcus Velez, in this city and it’s now become home to their first child, Ruth Velez.

Shaelie is an active member of the Chamber Young Professionals, a mentor at Mentor Kids Kentucky, Board Member for the Boulware Mission, and a youth teacher at Bellevue Baptist.

In November 2022, she started a new career working for the City that she’s come to love and now calls home.

She says it’s been an amazing year working with a great team of people who strive to make the City of Owensboro a phenomenal place to live. She’s learned so much working under the great individuals leading our city, and looks forward to keeping the community informed on the great things happening here in Owensboro.

JAY FALLIN, 36

Social Studies Teacher, Head Football Coach, OHS

This fall, Jay Fallin started his 14th year teaching and coaching football at OHS, his ninth season as head coach.

Fallin holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a dual certification in social studies and special education from Kentucky Wesleyan College, as well as a master’s in K-12 administration (principal’s certification) from the University of the Cumberlands.

In addition to teaching and coaching, Fallin sponsors the annual Bradshaw History Tour of New York and Washington, DC for OHS students, as well as the Student Y Club. Fallin and his wife, Allison, a physical therapist and clinic manager for KORT, have two sons, Drew and Ben.

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Wendell Foster would like to congratulate Kara Howard on being named 40 Under 40. A graduate of Western Kentucky University with a degree in Advertising, Kara realized her love for the non-profit sector when she joined Wendell Foster in 2021. Her creativity and fresh perspective led to her promotion as Wendell Foster’s Vice President of Development and Community Engagement. As Vice President, Kara increased brand awareness and modernized fundraising for the organization. She obtained her certificate in Fundraising Management from the IUPUI Lily Family School of Philanthropy in 2022 and is a 2023 Leadership Owensboro graduate.

KARA HOWARD, 32 VP of Development & Community Engagement, Wendell Foster

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JAKE BOSWELL, 33

Assistant Marketing Director, Independence Bank

ELLEN EBELHAR, 30

Retirement Plan Services Officer, Independence Bank

ANDREW HOWARD, 36

VP, Commercial Loan Officer, Independence Bank

Independence Bank is proud to recognize what makes our Bank revolutionary: our employees. Congratulations to Andrew Howard, Ellen Ebelhar and Jake Boswell for being named to the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s 40 Under 40.

Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer Andrew Howard continues to serve as a leader on multiple non-profit boards across Owensboro while also leading on the court as a coach at his alma mater, Owensboro Catholic High School.

Retirement Plan Advisor Ellen Ebelhar spends her time putting others first as a board member of Boulware Mission and leading the Owensboro Chamber Young Professionals as this year’s Chair.

Assistant Marketing Director Jake Boswell is continuing to build the Guys and Ties program with the Owensboro Chamber Young Professionals. The mentoring program for 8th grade students at Burns Middle School is beginning its 5th year.

Andrew, Ellen and Jake are just a few of the more than 450 employees working to make a difference in the community where they live. Banking is always, and forever, about People. About YOU. We’re Independence Bank. We’re Here For Good.

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CHAMBER CURRENT

ASHLEY EVANS-SMITH, 36 Executive Director CASA

SPONSORED CONTENT

SARA WILLIAMS, 31 Tax Supervisor, Riney Hancock

Ashley began her career at CASA of Ohio Valley in 2017. She assumed the role of Executive Director of CASA in August 2021 after four years working within the organization.

Born and raised in Hartford, Kentucky, Ashley learned the value of family, leadership, and commitment to community from observing the manner in which her parents operated their own small businesses.

Inspired by her mother’s passion for early childhood education and commitment to create successful families for women who work outside of the home, Ashley is proud to have worked with the CASA of Ohio Valley Board of Directors to provide child care assistance as a benefit for CASA staff.

Ashley is honored to be able to serve the community through Impact 100, Junior League Owensboro, and the Building Stronger Families Board. She also enjoys volunteering with the International Center of Owensboro.

Ashley obtained a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and master’s degree from the University of Louisville. She will complete a masters degree in children’s law and policy from Loyola University Chicago in December 2023. Ashley also worked to enhance her skills and passion for her state and community through ELEVATE Kentucky and Leadership Owensboro.

It is with the love and support of her husband, Lance, that she is able to effectively juggle her dedication to being a lifelong learner, passion for her work, and absolute joy she finds in their four children: Michael, Case, Jesse, and McKinley.

Sara Williams is a Supervisor in the Tax Services Division with Riney Hancock CPAs PSC. Sara is a 2015 graduate of Kentucky Wesleyan College. She went on to become a Certified Public Accountant in 2017. Sara serves as Board President for the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden and Board Treasurer for the Daniel Pitino Shelter. She is a 2018 graduate of Leadership Owensboro, and a member of Chamber Young Professionals, previously serving on the Executive Committee from 20172022, including as Chair from 2020-2021. Sara’s favorite titles she holds are wife to Chris and “mama” to 1-year-old daughter, Miller Jane.

DAVE KIRK, 35

Destination Management, Visit Owensboro

STEPHANIE BERTRAM, 33 Director of Development, H.L. Neblett Center

TRISTAN DURBIN, 27

Airport Director, Owensboro-Daviess Co Regional Airport

EMMY WOOSLEY, 35

Quality Engineer II, Daicel Safety Systems America

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CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: CHAIR ELECT

JOHN MARSHALL MOORE John Marshall Moore is the Chair-Elect of the

I loved coming home from college and going to

First of all, just not screwing it up. Don Moore

Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Board

his office to catch up on life and the business. We

has been in business since 1918, and there have

of Directors. John is CEO of Moore Automotive

share lots of similarities. We both love to analyze

been multi-decade challenges that we have had

Team, Founder/Manager of Marshall Ventures and

numbers and solve problems. We do have different

to overcome. Everything from wars to the recent

Owner of Legends retail store.

styles though. I’m more intense and thrive with

pandemic have affected our family business in

We sat down with John and asked him about

change. He is more traditional and likes to stay

different capacities, and we have had to work

his career, who inspires him and his role on the

consistent. Regardless of how we get there, 90% of

together as a team to strategize to find ways to

Chamber Board.

the time we agree with the best plan of action.

move past those challenges. We never know what is

What is your favorite part of your job?

My other brother David has also been a huge

around the corner, but the secret sauce is really the

inspiration. He is truly a servant leader and has

people. We are lucky to have a great team that just

Working with the people on our team. Solving

the biggest heart of anyone I know. He has been

wants to take care of people.

problems, developing new strategies and getting

at the dealerships for over 30 years, and I really

everyone behind it as a team is definitely my

don’t know what I would have done without him

favorite part of my job. I love working with my

when I came back as the CEO 7 years ago. I always

team to accomplish the different goals we are trying

appreciate his perspective and his love and loyalty

to reach.

for people inspire me to be better everyday.

What are you most proud of to date in your professional career?

I think there are so many little wins. Whenever I think about the different things I have accomplished over the years, it is not necessarily like hitting the

Who inspired you when you were growing up?

When it comes to business, my brother Don.

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What are some of the biggest challenges that come with running a fourth generation family business?

lottery. Whether it be the Venture Fund or Legends, none of those are overnight successes like hitting the lottery. That is not how businesses work.

Ultimately, we have been able to develop a fantastic

From there I will decide what projects need the most

personalities involved in those trips over the years,

team with great people. Frankly, I’m proud of the

support and where I can be the most beneficial.

and it is just really neat to see how we come to a

success we’ve had because of that. Of course there is

As far as family, that really always comes first. I

point of focus for what really needs to be done for

always more work to do, but between our team and

will definitely always plan my schedule around what

our community, and I know how effective those

the little wins we have had over the years those are

I have going on with my family. Whether that is with

trips have been. Knowing that we have actually seen

the two things I am most proud of.

the kids or my wife, I have plenty of time for that

results from conversations we had in D.C. such as

thanks to our amazing team.

the recent groundbreaking of Highway 331 has

Take us through a day in your life. What does day to day look like for you while running a business, spending time with family, and still doing the things that you love?

What are your favorite things to do outside of work?

A typical day for me starts with checking texts

big one. That is something I am currently spending

and phone calls and then looking at the schedule to

a lot of time on, but also I like mountain biking,

From my perspective I am proud to be a part

see what the day will bring. I like to go by different

Orange Theory, yoga classes, and cross fit. I enjoy

of the Chamber Board and serve our community

stores on different days. One day may be spent at the

the class environment, and I find it motivating and

because we need one voice in a competitive

Auto Mall and another at the Chevy Store. My office

encouraging to be surrounded by other people.

environment across the state and the nation. I think

is located at the Frederica location, but typically

Outside of that I love coaching my kids. I have

the Chamber’s role in that is somewhat my obligation

where I’ll be just depends on what is going on at

coached basketball for over 20 years now. So, I enjoy

as a business owner to help make Owensboro a great

each location. On a standard week I am actually only

that and seeing the kids I coached a while back off

business community. I certainly love being able to

at my office one day or two at best.

doing successful things is definitely a great feeling.

do my part, by contributing financially, and being

certainly made my appreciation for the Chamber

I like to do anything active. Pickleball has to be a

What makes you proud to serve on the Chamber’s Board of Directors?

able to provide a voice especially for local and small

Tuesdays are dedicated to our managers’ meeting, so our top 8 managers meet at our headquarters for

grow more than anything.

What is your favorite “Chamber memory?”

businesses in our community. As a small business

usually 4-5 hours. We discuss what is going on with

Definitely my favorite Chamber memory has

owner of Legends I know a lot of the unique

the business, what things we want to change, what

been our trips to Washington D.C. and what that

challenges that small businesses face, and without

marketing looks like, what leads sales, people we

does from a team building perspective. The trips

an organization like the Chamber there really is

need and different topics like that. The managers’

to D.C. are always great fun, but they also produce

no chance for small businesses to have that unified

meeting usually determines the rest of my week.

lots of success.There have been a lot of different

voice, so I am proud to be a part of that. OL

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CHAMBER CURRENT

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.

JULY

KIGHT HOME CENTER - A DIVISION OF THE CARTER LUMBER COMPANY

BELL BANK MORTGAGE

Family-owned since 1957, Kight Home Center has been an Owensboro staple for over six decades. Carter Lumber acquired Kight in 2005, opening locations in Bowling Green, Hopkinsville, Evansville, and Nashville.

Bell Bank Mortgage services 60,000 loans in 35 states for various borrowers, investors, and insurers. The mortgage company is a division of Bell Bank – a rapidly growing family and employee-owned bank. In 2022, Bell Bank announced it was growing its footprint and expanding to Owensboro.

SHILOH’S LOUNGE AND GRILL

CANDI COSMETICS, LASH ARTISTRY

Justin Davidson opened Shiloh’s Lounge nearly 3 years ago, bringing a wealth of fun, food, and drinks to Owensboro all in one spot. Davidson named the establishment after his son and takes pride in offering an experience unlike any other community. The restaurant offers breakfast and lunch daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., reopening from 5-10 p.m. for dinner and even staying open until 2 a.m. on weekends to serve the late-night crowd.

Candi Cosmetics Lash Artistry celebrated its grand opening with several business partners, friends, and family members earlier this summer.

Situated at 5000 Backsquare Drive, Building C in Owensboro, Candi Cornatzer is thrilled to offer lash services, eyelash tints, foreign fills, extension removals, brow shaping, tints, lamination, and much more.

JULY

CHAMBER AMBASSADOR OF THE MONTH

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JUSTIN MERRIT

Justin, a native of Whitesville, has been employed

by ADVANCED for 12 years as a physical therapist assistant and outreach coordinator. Justin is very motivated by helping people reach their goals, rather it be excelling at a particular sport, being pain-free, or just moving better. Improving the quality of life in his patients is his drive.

AUGUST

OWENSBORO INSULATORS

Matthew Purcell founded Owensboro Insulators in 2011, growing and evolving the company over the past 12 years. As a thirdgeneration home builder, Purcell said he recognized a need in Owensboro and the surrounding community for an insulation contractor. For 12 years, Purcell and his team have operated with solid attention to detail, excellent customer service, and high-level knowledge of building performance.

VIZION MORTGAGE

Pat Cason launched Vizion Mortgage in Owensboro this year, focusing on lending for clients on purchase transactions. Cason and his team have over 25 years of experience in the industry and take great pride in serving existing and potential homeowners in the area. The company offers 30-year Fixed Conventional loans, FHA loans, USDA loans, and will soon provide VA and Kentucky Housing products.

LILLIANNE SHARP PHOTOGRAPHY

Lillianne Sharp is a maternity and newborn photographer specializing in emotive documentary photography. She’s available for sessions and adventures around Owensboro and surrounding counties.

EVER BIN CLEAN

Ever Bin Clean provides professional garbage can cleaning services for homeowners and businesses. Their innovative cleaning equipment and process cleans, sanitizes, and disinfects your garbage cans, leaving them looking and smelling better than new. Their team of experts goes through proper training and works with a satisfaction guarantee on each cleaning.

STRENGTH RENEWED LLC

Strength Renewed provides personal training + massage therapy services to help renew and strengthen your body and mind.

Owner Ulysses Johnson, LMT, CPT has more than 15 years of personal training experience and more than 10 years of massage therapy experience, equipping him to support a broad range of clients in meeting their health and fitness goals.

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Shelly Nichols, Chamber Vice President, at 270-926-1860 or shelly@owensboro.com.

AUGUST

KEVIN GIBSON

Kevin Gibson is Vice President/Commercial Lending at South Central Bank. He has been a Chamber Ambassador since 2010 and earned the Ambassador of the Year award in 2013 and 2016. Kevin currently serves as Board President for the Opportunity Center of Owensboro. He is past Chairman of the Board of Hospice of Western Kentucky and previously served on the Board of Directors for Kiwanis. He is a graduate of Kentucky Wesleyan College, The Kentucky Bank Management Institute, Stonier Graduate School of Banking and Leadership Owensboro. Kevin is the proud father of two sons, John and Jack.

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CHAMBER CURRENT ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP: JULY

Speaker:

Sponsor:

Seema Sheth SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT/ REGIONAL EXECUTIVE THE FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF ST. LOUIS

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Brewco Marketing Group C and P Trucking LLC Carter Lawn Management, LLC Donatos Pizza, New Hartford Road Fuller Physical Therapy Goodwood Owensboro Julia Kimbrell Photography K5 Capital Group Keller Williams Elite Realty, Kevin Dehart Keller Williams Elite Realty, Steve Lewis Keller Williams Elite Realty, Tonya Lewis Murphy Business Sales- South Central KY Proview Professional Home Inspections Rally Point Events Reach Influencers Terry’s Tees The Brothers that Just Do Gutters Vizion Mortgage Wells Fargo Advisors – Siddon Wealth Management Wilson Custom Flooring

RENEWALS 54 Pizza Express - East Adorn Boutique Aid the Homeless, Inc. Alexander & Company CPAs PSC Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC All About You Salon & Spa All-Star Waste Services, Inc. Alpha Laser & Imaging, LLC Alvey’s Sign Co Inc American Patriot Getaways Angela Clark, Tony Clark Realtors Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Audubon Area Community Services, Inc. Auto Truck and Trailer, LLC Barnhart Crane and Rigging

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S

eema Sheth is Senior Vice President and Regional Executive of the Louisville Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.

Ms. Sheth became head of the Louisville Branch in December 2021. The Branch serves southern Indiana and western Kentucky.

Ms. Sheth joined the Bank from PNC Private Bank in Louisville, where she served as vice president and relationship strategist. In this role, she specialized in financial planning and stewardship of high net worth clients. Passionate about financial capability, Ms. Sheth founded the Adulting Academy, which teaches the basics of finance to young adults, and still speaks frequently on the topic and its importance.

July’s Rooster Booster was sponsored by R.W. Baird.

Founded in 1919, Baird is an international financial services firm with more than $375 billion in client assets. We provide Private Wealth Management, Trust, Asset Management, Investment Banking, Capital Markets and Private Equity services to clients through our offices in the United States, Europe and Asia.

For more than 100 years, Baird’s capabilities have grown with their clients’ needs. Their five complementary businesses help diversify and balance revenue through all types of market conditions. Their structure and independence give them the financial strength to make ongoing investments in the professional expertise and distinctive culture that make Baird a trusted partner for individuals, municipalities, corporations and institutions around the world.

The Chamber invited local youth and interns to join the July Rooster Booster as well as highlighted Shop Owensboro – Summer Edition, powered by Independence Bank.

Battery Headquarters Inc. Be Real Sports Cycling & Fitness Beltline Electric Co., Inc. Best Insured by Elizabeth Best One Tire & Service Best Western Plus Better Business Bureau Inc. Serving Fort Knox (Branch) Bickett Tiling Blue Line Entertainment Bob Glenn Brandon Scott Mullins Memorial Foundation Bridge Pointe Church Browns Valley Vineyard Cabinets Unlimited Caretenders Center For Cosmetic and General Dentistry Center for Vein Restoration Charter-Calumet Trace Senior Living CherriCare Medical Equipment & Supply Christian Family Radio Cintas Corporation Clark Distributing Co Commercial Warehousing, Inc. Compass Counseling of Owensboro, LLC Courier Express Crazy Me Gifts & Apparel D.J. Johnson Daviess County Fiscal Court Daviess County Lions Club Fair, Inc. Daviess County Public Library Daviess County Public Schools Daviess County Sheriff’s Office Daviess County Teachers Federal Credit Union Days Inn Dental Designs of Owensboro Diggers, Inc. Digital Group LLC Don Moore Toyota-Mitsubishi-Nissan-Honda Donatos Pizza, West Parrish Avenue Dr. Richard Good, OB/GYN Dunkin’ Donuts Edward Jones, Ed Krahwinkel, Financial Advisor

Elder Advantage Elevator Solutions Inc. En Vogue Estes Farms Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Owensboro, KY Fern Terra Assisted Living LLC First Christian Church Fischer Farms Inc. Flat Lick Grain Farms, LLC Foreman Watson Land Title, LLC Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools Four Seasons Heating & Cooling Friday After 5 Friends of Sinners Furniture Warehouse Gardner Engineering & Consulting PLLC Gerling Law Offices German American Girls Incorporated of Owensboro-Daviess Co. Gramps Coffee and Donuts Granted Green River Appliance Co, Inc. Green River Area Down syndrome Association- GRADSA H & R Block Hafer Hartz Contracting, LLC Hayden and Co. PSC, CPAs Hayden Construction Hayden Electric Inc. Hendrick Screen Company Heritage Federal Credit Union Hill View Farms Meats, LLC Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari Home Inspired, Inc. Hometown IGA Honor Home Loans International Bar-B-Q Festival Irving Materials, Inc. J&R Construction J.E. Shekell, Inc. John E. Hammen, D.M.D., Owensboro Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery PLLC

ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP: AUGUST

A

s a second-generation Auctioneer and Realtor, Elizabeth Monarch entered the Auction and Real Estate Industry in 2002. Elizabeth is currently serving as the 100th State President of the Kentucky Realtors and is the Principal Broker for eXp Realty in Kentucky managing over 580 Realtors.

Having sold over 3,200 homes in her career, Elizabeth is licensed in both Kentucky and Indiana and is the co-owner of Auction Solutions, LLC and owner of The Monarch Group brokered by eXp Realty, LLC. She is passionate about her work and is known to be the “Hardest Working Real Estate Agent You Will Ever Meet!” Elizabeth currently resides in Bowling Green and Louisville KY. August’s Rooster Booster was sponsored by Greater Owensboro Board of REALTORS®.

GORA offers a wide array of benefits and advantages when buying or selling a property. These licensed professionals, members of the National Association of Realtors, are committed to upholding a high standard of ethics and are well-equipped to guide clients through the complexities of real estate transactions.

Additionally, Visit Owensboro presented their award for Most Valuable Recruiter to Daviess County Property Valuation Administrator Rachel Pence Foster.

Speaker:

Elizabeth Monarch A U C T I O N E E R A N D R E A LTO R

Sponsor:

Johnson’s Dance Studio Jones Insurance Agency Kaiser Aluminum Warrick KeeFORCE Kentuckiana Animal Clinic Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance - Bill Hodskins Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance - Gavin C. Roberts Insurance Agency, Inc. Kentucky Wesleyan College Athletics Department Kidstop Children’s Boutique, LLC Kimberly-Clark Corp.

Kiwanis Club of Owensboro KM Specialty Pump/ Straeffer Pump & Supply Koger Properties, LLC KORT - Physical Therapy L. Ruth Interior Design Lawton Insurance Lee’s Famous Recipe Fried Chicken LifeMark Securities Corp.

LinGate Hospitality Liquor Barn Lizzie’s Diner Madison Square Boutique and Bridal of Owensboro Malone Workforce Solutions Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation Martha Fitts Clark Matthew 25 AIDS Services McEnaney Family McDonald’s - Hwy 54 McEnaney Family McDonald’s -2750 Frederica Street McEnaney Family McDonald’s -4800 Frederica Street Mechanical Systems Inc. Messenger-Inquirer Midsouth Rentals Midwest Ear Nose & Throat, Head & Neck Surgery (operated

by Ohio County Healthcare) Miracle Ear Mizkan America, Inc. Morley Morton Holbrook, lll MPD, Inc. Murphy Appliance Co., Inc. Musick Studios

Musick Studios Nick T. Arnold Jewelers Nick T. Arnold Jewelers, Inc. 54 Niko’s Bakery NiteLiters Inc. OASIS, Inc. O’Bryan Contracting, Inc. Ohio Valley Insurance LLC Ole South Barbeque Owensboro Bourbon Society Owensboro Brew Bridge Owensboro Convention Center Owensboro Daviess County Regional Airport Owensboro Health Foundation Owensboro Human Relations Commission Owensboro Insulators, LLC Owensboro Museum of Fine Art Owensboro Sister Cities Owensboro Symphony Owensboro Toastmasters Packages Plus PakMail/Store It All Pasture Belt Farms, LLC Paul Martin Builders, Inc. Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 633 Poole’s Pharmacy Care Prairie Farms Dairy Premier Medical Group Professional Properties and Construction LLC Public Life Foundation PVF Supply Company, Inc. Raymond James RE/MAX Professional Realty Group, Glenn Ashby Real Hacienda Mexican Restaurant Republic Services, Inc. River City Insurance Agency River Metals Recycling, LLC RiverCities Asset Management, LLC Riverside Transport, Inc Robin’s Resale and Boutique Rolling Pin Pastry Shop, Inc.

Rowland Family Dentistry Shivmir Hospitality Management, Comfort Suites Owensboro Shoe Stop SIP Owensboro SKY Engineering Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, Inc. St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter State Farm Insurance, Daniel Dick Summit Medical Specialists Sun Windows, Inc. Super 8 Swank Style & Boutique T & W Valve and Machine Co. Inc. T.H.E. Insurance Group Tanner Publishing Co. The BHG Realty, Jason Bellamy The Children’s Advocacy Center of Green River The Honey Do Service, Inc The Malcolm Bryant Corporation The Miller House Restaurant & Catering The Owensboro Times The Ryan Rutman Group The Scrub Shoppe Theatre Workshop of Owensboro Thompson Homes, Inc. To The Max Behavior Therapy, LLC Tony Clark Realtors, LLC Trinity High School Trophy House, Inc. Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Frederica Street Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Hayden Road Truth Outreach, LLC U.S. Bank Vector Engineers, Inc Volunteers of America Mid-States WEHT ABC 25/WTVW Local 7 Wells Health Systems Western Kentucky Minerals WinSupply of Owensboro WKU Public Radio 89.5 S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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C E L E B R AT I N G

OUR PORTS GREATER OWENSBORO CONTINUES TO CELEBRATE BIG WINS WITH ITS PREMIER PORTS OF ENTRY. 66 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 3

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he Riverport Authority’s recent groundbreaking on Highway 331 will enhance the 340 acre rail served site. The Riverport is a U.S. Customs Port of Entry and Homeland Security Facility and in the Foreign Trade Zone making it a site for London Market Exchange and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

The Airport recently celebrated non-stop jet service to Chicago O’Hare making it possible to get anywhere in the world from right here.

Brian Wright and Tristan Durbin and their board of directors continue to lead our ports with innovation and integrity.

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CHAMBER CURRENT

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.

OPTIMIZE U

GOODWOOD

YELLOW BANKS RECOVERY CENTER

SUMMIT MEDICAL SPECIALISTS

STRENGTH RENEWED

JOSH’S BROKEN FEATHER

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2023 CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC The 2023 Chamber Golf Classic was a swinging success! This annual event allows Chamber Members the opportunity to network on the greens, fostering valuable connections that go beyond the fairways. This event has proven to be a great opportunity for Members to drive their business forward while enjoying a fantastic day of camaraderie and collaboration.

We want to thank our sponsors who made the 2023 Chamber Golf Classic possible: Presenting

Sun Windows

Owensboro Health

Team Owensboro

Platinum

U.S. Bank

Houchens Insurance Group NextEra Energy Resources RiverValley Behavioral Health

U.S. Lawns

Golf Ball

Wonder Boy Media Bloody Mary Bar & 19th Hole

Ruoff Mortgage

Big Rivers Electric Corporation Gold

323 Staffing Solutions American Engineers Atmos Audubon Area Community Services Cleveland Cliffs Don Moore Automotive EM Ford Evergreen/Weed Man First Kentucky Bank Greenwell Chisholm Hartz Contracting Liberty Federal Credit Union Limestone Bank- Peoples Bank O’Bryan Contracting Old National Bank OMU Owensboro Riverport Authority Owensboro Times/Tanner+West RBS Design Group Riney Hancock CPAs PSC South Central Bank Southern Star Southwire

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Hole

Cedarhurst Senior Living Fastek LLC German American Bank Green River Distilling Heritage Federal Hospice Indepence Bank Kentucky Wesleyan College Koorsen Fire and Security Morley Wendell Foster Hobgood Wealth Advisors Optimize U Owensboro SERVPRO of Daviess County Food and Beverage Sponsors:

Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad Chick Brew Bridge Ole South Fraternal Order of Police