September/October 2025 Chamber Current by Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce

ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP

AUGUST

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce hosted its August Rooster Booster breakfast on August 7 at the Owensboro Convention Center. Sponsored by Baird, the event featured a timely and insightful presentation by Baird Investment Strategist Ross Mayfield, CFA.

Mayfield provided attendees with an in-depth look at current economic conditions and offered expert analysis on what to expect in the months ahead. His ability to simplify complex financial topics and “myth bust” common investment misconceptions resonated strongly with the audience. Known for his work with Baird Private Wealth Management and regular appearances on CNBC and Bloomberg, Mayfield brought national-level insight to Owensboro’s business community.

Chamber President and CEO Candance Castlen Brake expressed appreciation for Baird’s sponsorship and the opportunity to offer such high-caliber programming. The event also extended a special welcome to local interns and young professionals, incorporating fun elements to engage the next generation of leaders.

With more than 300 members in attendance, the August Rooster Booster continued the Chamber’s tradition of fostering community connections, leadership development, and timely conversations that drive the region forward.

REPRESENTING OWENSBORO

THE CHAMBER’S ANNUAL D.C. FLY-IN

Sponsor: Speaker: ROSS MAYFIELD, CFA

Baird Investment Strategist

The Greater Owensboro Chamber hosted a group of business and community leaders and elected officials in mid-July for the annual DC Fly-in. Highlights of the trip included connecting with various elected officials and professional staff of our Kentucky Congressional Delegation regarding projects that will continue to drive Owensboro forward and meet our Community Priorities and visiting the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) led by current NTSB Board Member and Past Chamber Board Chair (2006), J. Todd Inman. Our delegation was led by Chamber Board Chair Olga McKissic, Daviess County Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen, Daviess County Commissioner Chris Castlen, and City Commissioner Curtis Maglinger.

MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS

Members helping Members is at the heart of Owensboro’s thriving small business and nonprofit community. This month, we’re highlighting two examples of this giving and collaborative spirit.

SOMETHING BORROWED AND GIRLS INC. HOST HEADSHOTS FOR HEART

Something Borrowed partnered with Girls Inc. Owensboro to host the first-ever Headshots with Heart event at The Party Space Place, LLC. Guests enjoyed a day of professional headshot sessions, with proceeds benefiting Girls Inc. In addition, local girls were offered free headshots — providing them with polished, confidence-boosting images to support their personal and professional aspirations.

The response was heartwarming. “Free headshots. Real impact. All heart.” was the message that drew the community in, and the atmosphere was filled with connection, generosity, and celebration of a cause dedicated to empowering girls in our community.

BEVERLY’S

HEARTY SLICE PARTNERS WITH CHAMBER MEMBERS FOR MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AND FATHER’S

DAY

Beverly’s Hearty Slice partnered with Ivy Trellis Floral, Becca Bakes and Shiloh’s Lounge to host Mother’s Day Brunch this past May. After five years of dreading Mother’s Day, Beverly’s Hearty Slice founder Travis Owsley decided to honor his late mother by creating a special brunch for mothers and their children. To accomplish the goal he partnered with other Chamber members, leading to an event filled with collaboration, joy and memories that will last a lifetime. Later in the year, Owsley set out to keep the celebration going — this time on Father’s Day honoring the dads in our community with a free cookout dedicated to all the “cool” fathers in town. Once again, Beverly’s Hearty Slice and Shiloh’s Lounge teamed up to bring the vision to life, creating a day packed with fun for all ages. Guests enjoyed a lively cornhole tournament, card games, golf simulator challenges, arcade favorites, and more. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter, friendly competition, and the joy of being together. Proving that when our community collaborates, good things happen.

JULY // AUGUST

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.

WETHINGTON FAMILY PRACTICE

Wethington Family Practice, founded by Brittany Wethington in July 2022, blends traditional Western medicine with functional medicine to help patients address the root causes of their health concerns. Serving patients from newborns to seniors, the practice offers a wide range of services including chronic disease management, wellness visits, women’s health, and a highly regarded weight loss program.

OWENSBORO DUST BOWL

Now in its 52nd year, the Dust Bowl has grown from a grassroots basketball event into one of Owensboro’s most beloved summer traditions, thanks to the lifelong leadership of William “Rippo” Hinton. More than just a tournament, the 10-day event brings the community together through basketball, outreach, and celebration — uniting generations across neighborhoods with a shared sense of pride and purpose.

KANGEN DETAILING

After years in major creative markets like Chicago, L.A., and New York, Owensboro native Colt Walker returned home to launch Kangen Detailing, blending his artistic background with a lifelong passion for car care. With services ranging from basic washes to high-end detailing, Walker brings an artist’s eye and personal touch to every vehicle — offering clients both craftsmanship and a return to quality.

THE BEE’S KNEES BAKERY AND GOODS

Azlin Flener turned a lifelong love of baking into a full-time business with The Bee’s Knees Bakery + Goods, a custom home bakery known for its beautifully detailed cookies and sweet treats. What began as a creative outlet during the pandemic has grown into a dream career, with Flener combining her passion for art and baking to help customers celebrate life’s special moments — one cookie at a time.

JULY

and

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.

OWENSBORO MOBILE MECHANIC

What began as a side hustle during the pandemic has grown into a full-time, highly rated business for Justin O’Bryan, owner of Owensboro Mobile Mechanic, offering on-site vehicle repairs with honesty and convenience. Now expanding with a new venture — Owensboro Mobile Tire — O’Bryan continues to innovate how automotive services are delivered, proving that with hard work and transparency, a one-man trailer can grow into a trusted hometown brand.

OWENSBORO MOBILE TIRE

Owensboro Mobile Tire is bringing convenience to a new level by offering on-site tire sales, mounting, and balancing — right in your driveway, at work, or wherever you are. Launched by Justin O’Bryan and retired OPD officer Scott Norris, the business combines top-tier equipment with customer-first service, making tire installation as easy as placing a delivery order.

ACME CHICKEN BOWLS

Acme Chicken Bowls Owensboro, owned by Marc and Mandy McCoy, is more than just a food truck — it’s a mission to serve healthy, flavorful meals while building community and creating opportunity. With a menu that balances high-protein bowls and comfort favorites, Marc, a U.S. Army veteran, is using his business to give back, create jobs, and inspire healthier choices across Owensboro and beyond.

SECURITAS SECURITY SERVICES

Securitas Security Services offers comprehensive security solutions ranging from on-site guarding to advanced IT surveillance systems, tailored to meet the unique needs of industrial facilities, retail environments, and everything in between. With a focus on safety, reliability, and technology-driven protection, they provide peace of mind for businesses of all sizes.

AUGUST

KEVIN GIBSON

DON MARIO’S AT WINDRIDGE

Don Mario’s, a popular Mexican restaurant in downtown Owensboro, expanded to a second location inside Windridge Country Club, bringing its well-loved flavors to the east side of town. The new location featured a condensed menu, a full-service bar, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere — allowing Don Mario’s to connect with a new customer base while continuing to grow its community presence.

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.

A YEAR OF TURNING OUTWARD

For More Information

STACY EDDS-ELLIS, PH.D. Executive Director // sedds-ellis@owensboro.com

One year ago, the Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute began its journey with The Harwood Institute, launching an initiative to strengthen how our community connects, collaborates, and creates change.

Since releasing Building a Better Owensboro: A New Path Forward in June 2024, more than 80 local leaders have been trained as Public Innovators — community problem-solvers who “turn outward” by focusing on the hopes, concerns, and aspirations of residents. Through over 30 locally led community conversations, hundreds of Owensboro-Daviess County residents have shared what truly matters to them, shaping the direction of the work.

The results are taking root. Teams focused on arts, health, homelessness/ housing, and youth are aligning their efforts with public knowledge, building trust, and creating ripple effects with one connection leading to another. Local creatives gathered at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden for an art mixer, public innovators came together for advanced training, and new allies are emerging across sectors, finding common ground to address shared challenges.

This growing network is grounded in moving our community forward and powered by relationships. The vision is not to copy what’s been done elsewhere, but to create change that resonates here at home.

As momentum builds, opportunities for deeper connection and action continue, from orientation sessions to public innovator workspaces. Together, we’re proving that real change happens when communities work together for one common purpose.

For more information or to get involved, email GOLI@owensboro.com.

CYP GOES TO KY CHAMBER YP SUMMIT

Connecting Across Kentucky

The Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) Executive Committee recently traveled to Louisville to take part in the Kentucky Chamber’s Young Professionals Summit — a gathering designed to inspire, connect, and empower the next generation of leaders from across the Commonwealth.

The event kicked off with an engaging conversation featuring Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, moderated by Renee Shaw, followed by opening remarks from U.S. Representative Morgan McGarvey. Throughout the day, attendees heard from a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Marcie Merriman, cultural anthropologist and human-centered strategist; Elizabeth McCall, master distiller of Woodford Reserve; Scotty Davenport, former head coach of Bellarmine University Men’s Basketball; and a panel of young professionals making their mark in politics.

The summit offered an energizing mix of leadership insights, networking opportunities, and big-picture conversations, leaving CYP leaders inspired to bring fresh ideas and momentum back to Owensboro’s business community.

WISHING FAREWELL TO THE CHAMBER’S WARMEST WELCOME

Lydie Boone has been a part of the Chamber for seven years. But her warmth, energy, and love for people make it feel like she has been there forever.

This marks Lydie’s third retirement — proof that when you’re as dedicated as she is, people just keep calling you back. She first retired after a long and impactful career as an educator in Hancock County, then again after serving as the attendance secretary at Owensboro High School. It was there that she first crossed paths with Candance Castlen Brake, then a parent volunteer, unaware that their partnership would evolve into something much bigger. Their story continued years later at the Chamber when Candance became President and CEO and knew exactly who she wanted by her side. From the moment Lydie joined the team, she brought more than just experience — she brought heart, humor, and hustle.

She’s the first smiling face you see when you walk through the Chamber doors. The first to literally sprint to answer the phone. The first to offer a kind word, a helping hand, or a piece of advice for whatever life throws your way. Always in motion, always thinking of others, always spreading joy.

Though we hate to see Lydie go, we know she won’t be far. At the Chamber, we’ll undoubtedly find ourselves pausing to ask, “What would Lydie do?”

The answer, of course: she’d lead with kindness, give her all, and make everyone around her feel like family.

2025 CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce extends our deepest thanks to the generous sponsors of this year’s Chamber Golf Classic. Your support made it possible for us to host an outstanding day of networking, camaraderie, and friendly competition. Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the investment of our business community, and we are grateful for your continued commitment to the Chamber’s mission and to the success of our region.

Platinum Sponsors: Hartz Contracting

NextEra Energy Resources

RiverValley Behavioral Health

OMU

McEnaney Family McDonald's

Gold Sponsors: 323 Staffing Solutions

Alexander and Company

ATA

Atmos

de AM-RON

Domtar

EM Ford

Glenmore Distillery Green River Distilling

Houchens Insurance Group

IES

IMI

Independence Bank

Kaiser Aluminum

Kenergy

Moore Automotive Team

Mulzer Crushed Stone

O'Bryan Contracting

Owensboro Riverport Authority

RBS Design Group

Riney Hancock

Southern Star

STV

Sun Windows

U.S. Bank

Unifirst

Weedman

Golf Ball Sponsor: Big Rivers Electric Corporation

Hole Sponsors: Fastek

German American Bank

HPC Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Kentucky

Koorsen Fire & Security

Morley

Optimize U Owensboro

Owensboro Regional Suicide Prevention

Coalition (ORSPC)

Red Wing Shoes Owensboro

Regional Land Title Company

Rock Solid Aviation

The Hobgood Edge Group

VASS CDJR

Food and Beverage Sponsors:

Chicken Salad Chick

Don Mario’s Drake’s

Ole South BBQ

Rock ‘n’ Roll Sushi

Slim Chickens

A TASTE OF DETERMINATION

The 2025 Minority-Owned Business of the Year Award was proudly presented to Don Mario’s, a local favorite founded by Oralis Radilla in 2020.

Just weeks after opening her downtown Owensboro restaurant, Oralis was forced to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But instead of giving up, she came back stronger — reopening with one of the only outdoor dining setups downtown and building a loyal following with her authentic Mexican cuisine.

Named in honor of her father, Don Mario’s quickly became a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. Today, Oralis’s entrepreneurial spirit continues to thrive as she owns two Real Hacienda locations and a food truck, making her a true icon of small business success in Owensboro.

BRINGING FLAVOR TO LIFE

The 2025 Manufacturer of the Year Award was presented to Mizkan America, a company that has been a cornerstone of Owensboro’s industrial landscape since establishing its local operations in 1969.

In July, Mizkan announced a major $156 million expansion — an investment that brings not only economic growth, but also new job opportunities to the region. With a team of dedicated employees proudly committed to “Bringing Flavor to Life,” Mizkan continues to exemplify excellence in manufacturing and community partnership. This recognition celebrates both their longstanding presence in Owensboro and their ongoing investment in its future.

A LEGACY OF LOVE & LEADERSHIP

2025 LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT: ANITA BURNETTE

At the 2025 Chamber Awards for Excellence, the Legacy Award was presented to Anita Burnette, a woman whose leadership and service have left a profound and lasting impact on the Owensboro community.

Burnette has spent her life guiding, inspiring, and standing up for those whose voices often go unheard.

As the first woman to serve as principal of Owensboro High School since its founding in 1871, she led with unwavering dedication — working from sunrise to late into the night—often sacrificing time with her own family to support the students and staff she served. Her commitment empowered thousands of young people to believe in themselves and pursue goals they once thought unattainable.

Even after retirement, Burnette’s selfless spirit endured. When the school district faced a tragic loss and was left without a superintendent, she returned to serve once again, bringing calm, stability, and compassion during a time of great need. She reminded the community of its strength and helped rebuild trust from within.

A true servant leader, Anita Burnette has long been a catalyst for growth and healing, not through personal recognition, but through her belief in others. Her legacy is defined by quiet courage, steadfast love, and a deep commitment to making Owensboro a better place for all.

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.