GO Chamber - Q1 2019

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FROM THE CHAMBER Welcome to the Quarter 1 GO

federal government, our access only

Chamber magazine, a collaboration

improves!

with our partners at Tanner

CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE President & CEO

Publishing Co. Included in this

Far beyond our geographic

edition is our 2019 Investment

uniqueness, we have so many

Report, which reviews our mission

“Did you knows?” about Greater

and strategic goals. We were

Owensboro that demonstrate how this

super proud of what Owensboro

small city is truly special, and how if

accomplished last year and we look

you come here, you are not going to

forward to a great 2019!

want to leave. Those interesting pieces of our community are the subject of

It is not difficult to look around

this issue…Uniquely Owensboro.

our community and find things

DAVE ROBERTS 2019 Board Chair General Manager, UniFirst Corporation

that are uniquely Owensboro. At a

As we go through 2019, we hope to

recent meeting on the third floor of

be mindful of those things that make

the Commerce Center, a look out

us Owensboro and to capitalize on

the window was a reminder of our

those strengths…on being the best

geographic qualities that make us

of who we are instead of trying to be

naturally unique.

someone else.

Our bend in the Ohio River creating a

There is only one Owensboro! Let’s

robust agricultural base and a thriving

embrace that and continue to be the

commercial and industrial center

best version of US!

within a day’s drive of the majority

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

of the United States’ population…

Sincerely,

that quality has served us well.

Dave Roberts, 2019 Board Chair

And as our Chamber continues to

Candance Castlen Brake, President

collaborate with local, state and

and CEO

FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Tanner

FEATURES:

PUBLISHER Taylor West taylor@tannerpublishing.com

MANAGING EDITOR Benjamin Hoak ben@tannerpublishing.com

ADVERTISING SALES Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com

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Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com

COPY EDITOR Ashley Gleason

LAYOUT DESIGN Andrea Roberson

PHOTOGRAPHER Jamie Alexander

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PRINTING Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky

1ST QUARTER 2019 8 15 19

THE CHAMBER REPORT

25 30

2019 INVESTMENT REPORT

37 42

VARIETY OF SERVICE, BUT THE SAME GOAL

46 50

10 QUESTIONS

CONTACT INFORMATION: Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 200 E. 3rd St., Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 chamber.owensboro.com

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

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TWO OWENSBORO BUSINESSES LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER 100 YEARS UNIQUELY OWENSBORO Special Advertising Section

2019 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDS Special Advertising Section

OWENSBORO BUILDS A HOME FOR BLUEGRASS Rob Barnett

THE FINAL ANALYSIS Jaclyn Graves

DID ?

YOU

KNOW What popular flavored whiskey is bottled in Owensboro?

FIND OUT ON PAGE 49

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THE CHAMBER REPORT FAMILY: My husband, Jimmie, and I have been married for nine years and we have two rambunctious dogs who make us laugh every day.

HOW DID YOU END UP IN OWENSBORO? I was born and raised in Owensboro.

I have loved watching this community change and grow throughout the years.

MEET THE

CHAMBER STAFF HANNAH THURMAN

Events and Communications Coordinator, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce

WHAT'S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? I enjoy planning events that create opportunities for our community to thrive. Each event has something unique to offer and it’s great to see our community connect and network!

WHO IS THE MOST FAMOUS PERSON YOU'VE EVER MET? I met Nicole Curtis, host of Rehab Addict on DIY Network and HGTV, at a book signing a few years ago.

She does incredible work restoring old homes. I had every intention of carrying on a delightful conversation with her but, in retrospect, I’m not sure that I even managed to form full sentences!

WHAT'S AN UNUSUAL FACT ABOUT YOU? As a child I preferred watching This Old House and Bob Vila’s Home Again over cartoons. I'm a pro with a paint brush, can comfortably operate an assortment of power tools and have an array of home improvement knowledge.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE? I don’t watch many movies. I am, however, known to keep episodes of The Office and Parks and Recreation on regular rotation!

WHAT BOOK HAVE YOU MOST RECENTLY READ? I recently revisited a few chapters of Give and Take by Adam Grant. I read it several years ago and often recommend it to others, particularly those early in their careers.

WHAT SONG IS ALWAYS ON YOUR PLAYLIST? My music tastes vary, so it’s difficult to choose one song. You’ll find a little bit of everything on my playlist!

H A N D - P I C K E D What is your favorite unique thing about Owensboro?

“Sorry, I have more than one: the Ohio River, the blue bridge, the sassafras tree, all the big city amenities in a small town, you can get almost anywhere in 10 minutes.”

- Carl Greenwell GREENWELL CHISHOLM

“In our days of WeatherBerry Bed & Breakfast, we always told guests that a drive down Griffith Avenue was an important thing to do because it represented a wonderful picture of a Southern city. A drive down Griffith Avenue is always a favorite unique thing about Owensboro because, as we take that drive, we see an outstanding array of architecture as well as the homes occupied by many of our leaders - past, present and future.”

- Susie Tyler

WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN

“Summertime on the Waterfront!

Great restaurants, walking, playground, shopping and music!”

“That we are sort of in the middle and can get to several terrific big cities in a pretty short drive!”

-Dr. Janet Rowland

- Carol Bothwell

ROWLAND FAMILY DENTISTRY

OLD NATIONAL BANK

“My favorite part would be the camaraderie shared by citizens whether in town or out in the world.

Everywhere I travel I meet someone who knows a native of Owensboro.

It’s the heart of the universe as far as I’m concerned. It's a place I call home, I come home, and I feel at home. There really is something unique about that city that sits in the Ohio River where the sun always shines on My Old Kentucky Home.”

- Laura Ruth Edge

L. RUTH INTERIOR DESIGN

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MEMBERS ON THE MOVE KIPER APPOINTED TO AIDS STEERING COMMITTEE The Southeast AIDS Education and Training Center (SEAETC) recently named Jacob Kiper, a mental health counselor with the local Matthew 25 AIDS Services, to its steering committee. He fills one of two seats for the state of Kentucky and will serve a three-year term.

JEROME NAMED CCR CHAMPION Amanda Jerome has been named a 2019 ACT College and Career Readiness Workforce Champion for the state of Kentucky. Jerome serves as college and career readiness coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.

The national recognition honors individuals who have demonstrated exemplary dedication to preparing students for success post-secondary education and in the workplace.

Criteria for selection includes creating or leading programs that have a positive impact on communities and development of community partnerships.

SEAETC serves Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee by meetings educational needs of HIV/AIDS patients and healthcare providers.

“I think it is important for Owensboro to have a representative,” Kiper said.

“I am thankful for this opportunity in being one of two to represent Kentucky.

This is an opportunity for Owensboro to have a say, especially for the size we are in comparison to Lexington and Louisville.”

“My favorite unique thing about Owensboro is the kind-hearted, genuine, familyoriented, friendly, helpful, loving, caring, funny, happy and lovable PEOPLE of Owensboro!”

-Frank Anderson

SUN WINDOWS, INC.

“Small town feel with a bigger city population.”

-Shari Holzmeyer ESTES ELEMENTARY

Jerome is an enthusiastic advocate of the benefits of college and career readiness initiatives in the DCPS district. “To me, College and Career Readiness means I am preparing students for life after high school,” she said. “It’s about preparing them for

what lies ahead. My inspiration for making a difference with students comes from watching them grow and thrive. It makes my job worthwhile when I see a student inspired and eager to begin their next phase of life prepared for what lies ahead.”

BRYANT AND WOODWARD INDUCTED INTO JA HALL OF FAME Malcolm Bryant and Terry Woodward were inducted into Junior Achievement of West Kentucky's Business Hall of Fame on Thursday, January 17 at the International Bluegrass Museum.

The Business Hall of Fame honors Laureates who have demonstrated a lifetime of outstanding business achievements and civic involvement and who serve as a role model for the youth of our community.

“While Owensboro has some wonderful unique features: a beautiful riverfront, parks, the sassafras tree, etc. My most favorite feature is our wonderfully friendly and compassionate citizens! I am proud to say we have a tremendous caring, giving, helpful, 'can-do' community.”

“My favorite unique thing about Owensboro is Rooster Booster, and more specifically, the community's support of Rooster Booster. Time and time again, business leaders from other communities join us that Thursday morning and are surprised at the level of attendance for a breakfast so early. It's well attended and you always feel like you've gotten something out of going.”

-Rosemary Conder

-Kyle Aud

CASA OF OHIO VALLEY

“I have always felt that Owensboro was not only a great place to live, but also a safe place to live. This should be a great selling feature but it is imperative that we keep it that way. In today’s world, we should never sell the safety of our families short. It just makes our community a better place to live and to raise a family.”

-Dick Christ

ERB EQUIPMENT COMPANY

INDEPENDENCE BANK

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THE CHAMBER REPORT

CHAMBER BEHIND THE SCENES:

2019 CHAMBER Celebration On January 25, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce held the 2019 Chamber Celebration at the River Park Center.

The event included more than 700 Chamber members, along with local, regional and state officials. Eight local businesses were recognized as 2019 Businesses of the Year. Look for our list of winners starting on page 30.

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THE CHAMBER REPORT

THE

READING

GIRL, WASH YOUR FACE

AUTHOR: RACHEL HOLLIS

REVIEWED BY: Brittaney Johnson

President and CEO Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp.

Overview:

my priorities? I listed them out in my head as I was driving and listening to this book on audible. Honestly, I do not have two minutes in my day to read books, I try to use my time as efficiently as possible, With painful honesty and fearless humor, Rachel unpacks because there are never and examines the falsehoods that once left her feeling enough hours in the overwhelmed and unworthy and reveals the specific practical day! strategies that helped her move past them. In the process, she encourages, entertains, and even kicks a little butt, all to Back to my priorities – convince you to do whatever it takes to get real and become my children, husband, the joyous, confident woman you were meant to be. work…so often I forget to include myself as With unflinching faith and rock-hard tenacity, Girl, Wash one of MY priorities. Throughout the book, Hollis, is true, Your Face shows you how to live with passion and hustle – real and honest about the messiness of life and how to make and how to give yourself grace without giving up. yourself a priority. She is encouraging, comforting and adds humor to her pages.

As the founder of the lifestyle website TheChicSite.com and CEO of her own media company, Rachel Hollis developed an immense online community by sharing tips for better living while fearlessly revealing the messiness of her own life. Now, in this challenging and inspiring new book, Rachel exposes the 20 lies and misconceptions that too often hold us back from living joyfully and productively.

The Takeaway:

Hollis implores readers to stop worrying about external pressures, to always be more and do more. She encourages readers to find fulfillment by getting in touch with your own desires and feelings. Wash your face, take care of yourself, make good choices and know who you are. If you let these become the foundation of how you see the world, you’ll be As a mommy, wife, sister, daughter, friend, volunteer, leader, content and fulfilled – whether cleaning the toilet or taking a there are many days that life is crazy! Am I coming or going? vacation, changing diapers or crushing your career goals! This Am I devoting enough time to my “priorities?” Wait, what are is a good read for anyone!

Girl, Wash Your Face was a witty guide to healthy living.

Throughout the book, Hollis pairs biblical lessons with personal anecdotes to make her points. Hollis’ dynamic book is filled with inspiration for women who feel like some days they are spinning their wheels.

EVENT SCRAPBOOK

FARM CITY BREAKFAST

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LIST

The 40th Annual Farm City Breakfast took place Saturday, February 23 at Daviess County High School. Hosted by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce and Daviess County Farm Bureau, the event brought in attendees from the agriculture and business communities. The featured speaker was Ryan Quarles, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture, who spoke about the importance of agriculture to Kentucky and the nation.

EXECUTIVE ANSWERS

ON THE RECORD

How has your membership in the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce impacted your company?

TRICIA BUCKMAN

DEANNA JOHNSON

JASON TANNER

3:23 Staffing Solutions is blessed to be members of the Greater Owensboro Chamber. The Chamber has been a fantastic way for us to connect with the OwensboroDaviess County Business community. Our customers range from companies with thousands of employees to just one employee. Some of the customers and employees we partner with are directly related to our relationship with the Chamber. Networking meetings, Rooster Booster events and Ribbon Cuttings are just a few of the events where 3:23 Staffing Solutions have had the opportunity to meet with other business members— to learn from, share ideas and develop creative ways for our agency to continue our growth here in Owensboro.

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has had such a positive impact on my company, Peacocks and Pearls. One of their biggest events, Shop Owensboro, encourages the community to shop at local companies on Small Business Saturday. The countless hours the Chamber spends each year preparing for this one day makes a huge impact on our company and the community as a whole. Because of the bags the Chamber prepares each year for participants, customers are reminded to support all of their favorite local businesses.

The impact of the Chamber on my businesses is too big to measure. From my first day as a member, I knew the success of my businesses was a priority for the Chamber staff. That’s just as true today as it was 7 years ago, and I’m thankful for the role they’ve played in our success. I’m also thankful for their advocacy on behalf of the community, their willingness to collaborate, and their community initiatives.

OWNER, 3:23 STAFFING SOLUTIONS

The impact we have had through the visibility that the Chamber provides has been invaluable. The Chamber Ribbon Cutting at our new location was such a huge success for us and a way to let Owensboro know we are here, dedicated and working hard to continue our growth here in Owensboro and contribute to our community. Just this morning, we were interviewed on the radio for 3:23 Staffing Solutions being named business of the week through the Chamber. This impact to reach so many listeners through radio and share about our business is extremely valuable to our company as we grow.

3:23 Staffing Solutions is a company on a mission to serve the Greater Owensboro Region, so the Chamber’s culture of doing good and serving has been such a wonderful impact on us. 3:23 Staffing Solutions is rooted here in Owensboro and we want to be a part of helping the Chamber grow Owensboro one job at a time.

OWNER, PEACOCKS AND PEARLS

Beyond just the promotion of Small Business Saturday, which has grown to be our busiest day of the year, our Chamber of Commerce has created a community between the small businesses in our town.

The Chamber provides so many ways for us to get involved and give back to our community. I am forever grateful for the new and returning customers that the Chamber has brought to our store.

OWNER, TANNER PUBLISHING CO. AND TANNER+WEST, CO-FOUNDER, OWENSBORO TIMES

At Tanner Publishing Company, Tanner+West, and Owensboro Times, we know the Chamber staff and board are our allies. We go to them for advice and insight, which has proven beneficial time after time.

The Chamber has also given our businesses a platform to showcase our work, which has afforded us opportunities to meet new clients.

This magazine is one example - through GO Chamber we are able to collaborate with the Chamber staff to execute on the Chamber’s mission.

I am deeply grateful for our Chamber and everyone on the staff and board. I’m excited to continue working with them to not only benefit my companies, but our community as a whole.

I can’t imagine where Owensboro would be without the Chamber.

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THE CHAMBER REPORT

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER American Grease and Septic Bank of England Mortgage Big Roots Lavender Farm Cracker Barrel First Presbyterian Church

BY THE NUMBERS

IDK Family Restaurant

ROOSTER BOOSTER

Keller Williams Elite Realty, Sarah Barnes Luthan Electric Meter Testing, LLC Marcus and Millichap Capital Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Rooster Booster breakfast is held the first Thursday morning of each month.

It is one of the most well-attended Chamber of Commerce functions anywhere in the country. Here are a few facts and figures about our beloved Rooster Booster!

McCarthy Strategic Solutions, LLC Nucrete Design, LLC Oddball Creative Owensboro Daviess County Motorsports Council Owensboro Times Pure Life Yoga Taco Tuesday's Thrivent Financial Voldico Insurance White Chateau at Cecil Farms WKU Owensboro Alumni Chapter

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ROOSTER BOOSTER BEGINS AT GABE'S RESTAURANT

ROOSTER BOOSTER MOVES TO THE EXECUTIVE INN

ROOSTER BOOSTER MOVES TO OWENSBORO CHRISTIAN CHURCH

ROOSTER BOOSTER MOVES TO OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

1980S

2003

2014

1950S

40-50 Beginning average attendance

37

Number of years Kirk Kirkpatrick served as emcee (1977-2014)

353

Current average attendance

444

Number of breakfasts Kirkpatrick hosted

51,052

total attendance since 2010

1

Good News Phone Introduced by Kirkpatrick

TWO OWENSBORO BUSINESSES LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER

100 Years

T

wo local businesses are celebrating 100 years in Owensboro in 2019. They have made it through the Great Depression, wars, recessions and are still going strong today. Not only are these business local to the Owensboro community, but they are family-owned businesses with legacies leading the way.

BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON

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L TO R: BRIAN GREENWELL, CARL GREENWELL

GREENWELL-CHISHOLM PRINTING COMPANY In 1919, Greenwell-Chisholm set up shop as a printing company in a modest building on Frederica Street. Founded

by Emmett Greenwell and Paul Chisholm, the two joined forces because of their experience at the local newspaper — Chisholm as a typesetter and Greenwell as the circulation manager.

Four generations of Greenwells have guided the company throughout its numerous years and currently at the helm is owner, Carl Greenwell.

“I decided to get involved with GC because that is all I ever knew,” he said. “I started sweeping the floor of the production area at the ripe old age of six on Saturdays when they were closed and my dad and uncle were figuring job tickets. As I grew up, my job tasks and responsibilities increased.”

While his plan was not to go to college but go to a printing school in St. Louis, his parents convinced him to attend Brescia University where he got a degree in accounting.

After graduation, he went to work for the family business full time.

“I think anytime you have a company that is homegrown it is good,” he said. “Local people know other people and businesses from here. We are probably more apt to give and get involved when we know the people we are interacting with knowing it will ultimately make our community better.”

Greenwell said he is excited about the current state of the company.

“The printing industry is and has been changing drastically over the last 30 years in many ways,” he said. “Twenty years ago there were approximately 30,000 commercial printers in the U.S. Ten years ago that number was down to 20,000 and today is about 18,000 with a bottom forecasted at about 15,000. The old adage you are either growing or dying has never been more true. You don’t stay in the middle for very long.”

Greenwell-Chisholm has invested heavily in new technologies and personnel. They also plan to expand their current location at 420 East Parrish by 15,000 square feet within the next year.

“Printing is not going away, it is changing,” Greenwell said.

“We have gotten into mailing and fulfillment, promotional products, and wide format banners and signage.”

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PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

L T O R : J O S E P H A U T R Y , J O H N M O O R E , K A I T LY N M O O R E , D A V I D M O O R E

DON MOORE AUTOMOTIVE TEAM What began as a single franchise dealership at the dawn of a new era in transportation in 1919 has now expanded to five dealerships and 13 franchises.

In August 1919 three brothers, Percy, Kelly and Harry Short, decided to venture into the newly developing automobile industry and formed Short Brothers Motor Company.

Later Percy Short's son, Don P. Moore, Sr. joined the group. In 1959, Don Moore, Jr. joined the group, and in 1982, Don Moore III joined the firm.

Today, brothers Don Moore III, John and David operate the family business. Kaitlyn Moore, daughter of David, joined the team in 2015, becoming the fourth generation of Moores to work in the business.

But that was not always the plan.

services team,” she said. “My desire to work with this group was based on my interest in the industry after growing up around dealerships.

My family always made it clear that everyone in the family has a spot in the family businesses, but right after college I was not interested in moving back to Owensboro.”

After a while, Moore said her father called to tell her they were hiring for a CPA at the Don Moore Automotive group and he wanted to see if she was interested in the job.

“I thought about it for a few days and began to realize all the benefits of working for a family business,” Moore said. “I was also excited to return to Owensboro and be closer to my family. It is such a great opportunity to have the chance to work with my family toward a common goal.”

She said it’s an honor to be a part of her family’s legacy.

“I hope that we can continue to grow Don Moore Automotive so that it will be a vital aspect of the Owensboro community for at least

Moore, who majored in accounting in college and has her CPA

100 more years,” she said. “I believe locally owned family businesses

license, started her professional career at a CPA firm in Winston-

are vital for Owensboro and Daviess County. Our family has been

Salem, NC.

passionate about Owensboro and ensuring it continues to be a great

“I started auditing dealerships and working on their dealership

place to live and work.”

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

In this Uniquely Owensboro special advertising section businesses and organizations had the chance to spotlight their people and programs that help make Greater Owensboro an area unlike any other. Take a look at the one-of-a-kind jobs, interests and programs of our community.

PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY

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Uniquely Owensboro

INDEPENDENCE BANK

WINDOWS FILLED

with creativity 20

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

D

orothy Reid brings the Owensboro community to life for Independence Bank. Her decorating skills have turned the Independence Square location on Frederica Street into a celebration of the area by filling the windows with meaningful items.

Eighteen years ago, Reid started at the bank as a teller before transitioning to a customer service representative. She started decorating the bank's (then) four windows while she was a CSR, but as the bank grew, so did her task. Now up to 22 windows, it's a fulltime job that has kept Reid on her creative toes for the last six years.

“The ideas just come from everywhere,” she said. “Someone might mention an idea or there's a company anniversary or something driven by the community.”

In a recent window, the bank paid tribute to the business that was once where their Louisville location now is. “There was a hardware store there,” she said. “It meant a lot to the family.”

Other windows have featured local craftsmanship, business anniversaries and events like the Charity Ball or Color Blast 5K. “It's an immediate reminder of how dedicated we are to the community,” bank president Darrell Higginbotham said. “A lot of people come in just to see the windows.”

The idea to begin decorating the windows came when Chairman

and CEO Chris Reid and his wife Janet visited the original Independence Hall in Philadelphia, which all of the banks signature locations are modeled after. They saw how the original windows were decorated to engage the community and wanted to do the same here.

Higginbotham said the displays take on a life of their own at Christmas, and they even have an unveiling ceremony where friends and family come to see the work of Dorothy and her helper elves.

“I get a chance to see how they come to life,” he said. “There's literally a pile of what I would call 'stuff ' in the foyer and she takes that and makes an amazing window. It's a real talent.”

Reid says that comes from her background, with a bachelors in art from Brescia and experience working in retail displays.

“I'm using that art degree,” she said. “I've kept pictures of them all, and there's more than 880 displays.”

At Christmas, she decorates all 25 bank locations on top of the 22 windows in her routine.

There seems to be no limit to her creativity. Once she even took the curtains from the Madisonville bank location and turned them into a colonial dress. They've even had a Star Trek window.

Said Reid: “I have the best job in the bank.”

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Uniquely Owensboro O C TC

UNIQUE IS OUR

Middle Name

By Bernie Hale, OCTC

O

wensboro Community & Technical College is unique in that we are one of the youngest of the 16 community and technical colleges across the state, and as an organization, we pride ourselves on being unique and innovative. In our region, state, and even nationally, we have several programs exclusive to OCTC. These programs include, Healthcare Facilities Leadership (HFL), Tech X, GO Careers, the Alternative Fuels Initiative, the Advanced Manufacturing Technical Education Collaborative (AMTEC), and Veterinary Technology.

HFL was developed in conjunction with the American Society of Healthcare Engineers and has degree, certificate, and diploma credential options focusing on support systems at healthcare facilities. Tech X is a short-term program focusing on adult learners who need skills upgrades to gain employment in the manufacturing sector. GO Careers is a business program in a “work and learn” format. The alternative fuels initiative is taught in the Automotive and Diesel Technology programs. AMTEC provides a nationally-recognized training and certification solution that can lead to improved processes, reduced operational costs, greater efficiency and productivity for employers.

The OCTC Veterinary Technology program is the only one of its kind in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. Technical programs are expensive to fund as start-ups and OCTC was fortunate to be awarded a Coal Severance grant in 2015 to support those initial expenses to launch the Vet Tech program. Housed at OCTC’s Downtown Campus, the Veterinary Technology Teaching Hospital is second to none, boasting an array of x-ray, dental, and surgical equipment for a variety of animal species.

This teaching hospital was a long-held dream of program coordinator, Dr. Eddie Leach who began his second career, teaching, after more than 28 years working in the field as a veterinarian. Completing the team are Jacqueline Siljander, and Tara Groves, Licensed Veterinary Technicians who bring a myriad of experiences to the team.

In addition to the teaching hospital OCTC has a Large Animal Facility on the main campus, currently home to two retired thoroughbred horses, Dunny and CJ. Having access to the horses allows the students to gain additional hands on experiences.

Accreditation was an important step in building the programs credibility and accountability. The OCTC program is accredited by American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and it is a selective

admissions program, with a competitive admissions process, and a limited number of seats available. A unique opportunity presented itself back in September of 2018 when Harrison College, a private for-profit college in Evansville, Indiana unexpectedly closed, leaving the students in the veterinary technology program without a way to complete their education.

The OCTC Vet Tech program hosted an open house for former Harrison College students in the Veterinary Technology and 23 of those displaced students are now enrolled in OCTC’s Veterinary Technology program.

“These were students that through no fault of their own found themselves in a position with limited opportunity to complete their degree. We were excited that our faculty and administrators were able to accommodate them. The fact that they will all have the opportunity to finish their degrees is a testament to everyone working together” commented Dr. Scott Williams, OCTC President.

Four former Harrison students moved from the Indianapolis area to Owensboro. Those students along with five others from the Evansville campus are all on track to graduate in May 2019. The other 14 students joined the first-year student cohort and will work to complete the program

by May 2020.

While both programs were accredited by the AVMA, the process was not a simple one. The OCTC Vet Tech program faculty and department head worked to review each course individually and met with a subject discipline expert to ensure the students had the knowledge and experience needed for credit conversion.

Dr. Stacy Edds-Ellis remarked, “It was a very tedious process, but worth the time and energy to serve the students who are so excited about their future profession. I am proud of how we worked together to meet this need.”

“We are fortunate that we have the lab and classroom space to accommodate two full cohorts running simultaneously. We have seen increased interest from southern Indiana and from the Louisville area, since we are now the only accredited 2-year option for veterinary technology in a 100-mile radius,” added Dr. Eddie Leach, Program Director.

With the addition of the former Harrison College students, the OCTC Veterinary Technology program has students from more than (12) counties in Indiana and (15) counties in Kentucky.

OCTC’s Veterinary Technology program classrooms and the teaching hospital are located at the Downtown Campus, 1501 Frederica Street. For more information about the admissions requirements or the OCTC Veterinary Technology program, please contact jacqueline.siljander@kctcs.edu or eddie.leach@kctcs.edu.

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

O W E N S B O R O H E A LT H

Melinda Cornell

I

CAN’T FENCE HER IN

f you’ve ever met Melinda Cornell, you know that she is just one of those people that makes everyone around her feel a little bit better. She always seems to be excited for a party but, for Melinda, that party is just life.

“I am very blessed to work for the hospital and have the opportunity to do these things.” The “things” she’s talking about are the trips she leads for the Golden Partners, based out of the Owensboro Health Healthpark. Melinda has now been to all fifty states and six continents with Golden Partners. Don’t worry though, she won’t let that seventh one get away, Antarctica is already on her radar. Some of her favorite places in the world are Vermont in the fall, Switzerland and the Galapagos Islands. However, she encourages everyone to travel and discover their own favorites. “We have beautiful places in the United States – our National Parks. You can’t explain that beauty to someone; they have to see it for themselves.”

When she isn’t on the road with the Golden Partners, you can find Melinda right here at the Healthpark signing up new members and coordinating fun activities. Aside from travel, some of Melinda’s favorite Golden Partner activities include hosting Friday Flix and getting together with the Lunch Bunch.

Membership in Golden Partners is for those 50 and older and it exists to provide opportunities for senior adults to socialize and make new connections

in their community. There is a yearly fee of $30 for an individual or $50 for a couple but that fee gets you a discount on trips and pays for itself almost immediately. Even if you are not interested in travel, the membership will get you free rides to health appointments with the Healthpark’s van service and many other benefits including free or discounted health screenings.

“One of the benefits of travel is socialization, so many people gain friendship which is vital as we age. Many of our travelers that went on that first trip to Brown County or the first international trip to Switzerland still have lunch together or attend Healthpark programs together. It is a blessing to me when I realize how many friends I have gained through Golden Partners.” It is Melinda’s hope that Golden Partners will continue to grow simply because she enjoys seeing all of the friendships that have been formed through the program.

Traveling around the world is an adventure in itself but Melinda’s mantra is that everything we do in life is better done with friends. “I have a bond with the fellow travelers and Melinda that you only develop by sharing new experiences,” says Sherry Jones, a Healthpark team member who frequently travels with Melinda and the Golden Partners. “Melinda truly cares about every person going on these trips and wants to make sure they have a great time. She’s always up for a new adventure.”

To join Melinda on the next adventure, call 270-688-4855 and she’ll be happy to fill you in. You do not have to be a member of Golden Partners to go on a trip but you’re probably going to want to join when you see what they’re up to. There’s a saying at the Healthpark: “You haven’t been on a trip until you’ve been on a trip with Melinda.”

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Uniquely Owensboro

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

K E N T U C K Y W E S L E YA N C O L L E G E

PROFESSOR RUNS THEATRE, TRIATHLONS

N

ate Gross is a man of many talents. Not only does he know his way around a theater and a college campus, he can swim, bike and run farther than most people - even in the rain.

Gross and his family moved to Owensboro two years ago so he could direct the theatre program at Kentucky Wesleyan College and his wife, Molly, could teach English there. About a year earlier, he had taken up competing in triathlons. He started out with shorter distances before hearing about the Ironman version, where competitors swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles - a full marathon.

At first he thought he could “never, ever do that,” he said. “Then I thought maybe I could.” Then in the fall of 2018, Gross actually completed an Ironman triathlon in Louisville. It rained all day long, temperatures were in the high 40s, and the Ohio River was moving so fast, organizers had to cut the upstream portion of the swim. The race ended up with a 17.5 percent dropout rate, but Gross finished.

“I honestly really enjoyed it,” he said. “I think it’s the challenge of it. It was maybe a healthy mid-life crisis.”

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Gross will wait a few years before he attempts another Ironman, but he plans to continue racing shorter distances. He likes both the solitude of training - “It’s almost like meditation,” he said. “You just get into a groove and it clears your mind. I don’t feel good if I don’t run.” - and the social aspect of meeting new people through the sport.

Gross and his family, including Anne, 10, and Seth, 8, love Owensboro. After spending time in the urban environment of Southern California and a small rural college town in Georgia, Owensboro is their “Goldilocks town,” as Molly calls it.

The Gross’ enthusiasm for their town and for KWC is fitting for a college experiencing its biggest growth in more than a decade - new student enrollment was up by 39 percent this past fall.

As part of that growth, Gross is excited about KWC’s theatre program.

Among other plans, he is working with the theatre departments at Brescia University and Owensboro Community and Technical College to produce shows at the RiverPark Center together.

“I want this to be my last stop,” Gross said. “We seriously love it.”

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce provides

LEADERSHIP,

advocacy

and member services

growth

THAT FOSTER

&

economic prosperity FOR OUR REGION

2019

Annual

Investment REPORT

25

GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Strategic Goal

One

Grow membership by providing exceptional value and service.

962 CHAMBER MEMBERS

257 RELOCATION PACKETS

Strategic Goal

Two

COMMUNICATIONS Communications play a vital role in advancing our membership.

Our website, social media and our quality publications provide our Members countless opportunities to connect with potential and existing customers.

increase in dues for over a decade

WEBSITE VIEWS

chamber.owensboro.com

1,716 Average Rooster Booster Attendance

353

Direct Member Referrals

144

Events

53

RIBBON

CUTTINGS

Vol 16/Issue 12

118,714

D1

greater owensboro chamber of commerce

CHAMBER MATTERS DEC. 2018

Shop Owensboro continues to grow The 2018 Shop Owensboro powered by Independence Bank was a great success! The Chamber added 100 more shopping bags to the kick-off event, where the Chamber and Independence Bank team passed out 600 total shopping bags between both the HWY 54 and Frederica Street Independence Bank locations. Over 60 local retailers participated in this year’s Shop Owensboro, with record numbers in sales for Small Business Saturday.

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce and Independence Bank would like to extend a “Thank You” to every participant for making this day so special for our community, as well as those who continue to Shop Owensboro first, today and every day.

Keep your money where your heart is, Shop Owensboro!

Seeking Business of the Year award nominations for 2019 The Chamber Business of the Year Awards provide Members with the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of local businesses and the contributions they make to the Greater Owensboro area.

9,644

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce will present the 2019 Business of the Year Awards at the Annual Celebration on Friday, January 25, 2019 at The RiverPark Center.

Nomination Applications for the 8 Business of the Year Awards listed below can be downloaded from the Chamber website: https://chamber.wensboro.com/chambermaster-events/business-of-the-year/

JOIN CYP IN 2019

The 2019 Chamber Business Awards: • 2019 Emerging Business of the Year Award • 2019 Business of the Year Award (1-10 employees) • 2019 Business of the Year Award (11-50 employees) • 2019 Business of the Year Award (51+ employees) • 2019 Non-Profit of the Year Award • 2019 Education & Workforce Development of the Year Award • 2019 Manufacturing Business of the Year Award • 2019 Rick Kamuf Agri-Business of the Year Award Award nominations must be submitted by noon on Friday, December 7 by emailing chamber@owensboro.com or hand delivering the nomination to the Chamber (200 East Third Street).

Chamber Young Professionals provides a great opportunity for professionals 40 years and younger to network and educate themselves on important issues facing the Greater Owensboro area.

Through community service projects, social events, corporate tours and professional development, CYP Members develop strong ties in the Owensboro community. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce encourages Members to become more involved throughout the community and to serve as future leaders.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 270-926-1860.

TOTAL EVENT ATTENDEES

8,903 20,000+

Employees Represented

Teachers in the Workplace program visits Mizkan America Inc. and OCTC

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce hosted the November visits for Teachers in the Workplace at Mizkan America, Inc and Owensboro Community and Technical College. The morning session at Mizkan featured an in-depth tour as well as the leadership team sharing the wide array of employment opportunities across the plant.

The group then spent the afternoon at Owensboro Community and Technical College

to tour the Industry Innovation Center, the Advanced Technology Center and the Nursing Program Simulation Lab. Following that, the teachers had a round table discussion with several individuals from OCTC to learn more about specific programs offered to students such as Tech X, Technical Programs, AMTEC and GOFAME. If your business is interested in hosting teachers this spring, please contact the Chamber and let us know!

SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS

158 Chamber Young Professionals 26

GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

@gochamber youtube.com/user/ChamberOwensboro

Create opportunities to advance the success of our Members.

EVENTS Events are at the center of creating opportunities for our Members to connect with one another. They provide opportunities to network, to develop new clients and customers, and to learn about issues impacting our community’s bottom line.

CELEBRATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2018 RiverPark Center

6 p.m.

Reception begins at 6 p.m.

Program and Awards Presentation begin at 7:30 p.m.

Admission to an exclusive celebration featuring live music and crafted cocktails will be provided following the program.

TICKETS ARE $50 PER ATTENDEE Seating is limited. Kindly RSVP to the Chamber at 270-926-1860

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Strategic Goal

Three

Develop and connect leaders for the future of Greater Owensboro.

Talent development, recruitment and retention are key to our economic growth. The Chamber has focused efforts on nurturing existing talent programs, developing new ways to connect current and future leaders and participating in solutions to regional workforce issues.

Top 11 Cities FOR MILLENNIAL HOMEBUYERS

USA Today

Top Cities for Millennials Business Insider

Strategic Goal

Four

Demonstrate the Chamber’s leadership and collaborative role in Greater Owensboro.

Since our inception in 1913, many of the region’s most important ideas and programs have originated at the Chamber. Our collaboration with representatives across the community landscape is key in our regional economic growth, our legislative successes and in creating a buzz about Owensboro across the state.

Owensboro Riverport Authority is the

HIGHEST-VOLUME public authority of the

8 PUBLIC PORTS in Kentucky.

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

The Lane Report

Strategic Goal

Five

Advocate to improve the business environment and competitiveness of Greater Owensboro.

We take our role as advocate for our Members very seriously. Whether it be at the Local, State or Federal level, our Chamber looks out for individual Members and for the community at large. Along with a professional lobbyist, our Chamber ensures that we are in the mix so that Owensboro is heard.

100% of our revenue comes from dues and events – giving us independence to take tough positions.

Best Small City

OWENSBORO is among the

TOP 5 Tier 3 Metros

Milkin Institute

� Site Selection Magazine

BUILD GRANT RECIPIENT for Expansion of HWY 331

Top 17 Best Places to Work in Manufacturing in the Smart Asset United States

Strategic Goal

Six

Operate the Chamber with innovation, integrity and efficiency.

Our board and staff are committed to a continuous improvement philosophy – always building on successes and working through obstacles. Like a small business, we operate with a lean staff. There have been no dues increases in at least a decade. Yet our programming and output continue to grow.

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

2019

Business of the Year AWARD WINNERS

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Emerging Business of the Year W

OWENSBORO FAMILY PHARMACY

Improving Healthcare Options Jesica Mills grew up in the pharmacy business. Literally. Now she's taking over.

Her parents, Don and Daisy Thomason, owned The Medicine Shoppe on Frederica Street for 20 years before opening Don and Daisy Pharmacy Plus on West Byers Avenue in 2005. Mills purchased the pharmacy in 2016, but her history there starts just after being born.

“I think my first day was when I was three days old,” she said with a laugh. “We say they put me on payroll around age four because I could take the trash out.”

As she got older, she would be there after school or could be found shoveling the parking lot on snow days. She even had a nap time spot next to the fax machine.

Her decision to pursue a career as a pharmacist was fine with Mills’ father, who finally took a lunch break the instant she joined the business. “My dad left in the middle of the day unexpectedly,

saying he had waited years for the moment that I could work as a pharmacist in their pharmacy and he could go eat lunch,” she said.

The small pharmacy manned by Don and Daisy has grown into a staff of 15, working to offer new services and products to the community just as the original owners did.

One new service is the addition of rapid testing for things like the flu or strep, that allow them to fill a prescription without the patient going to a separate doctor. According to Mills, within 20 minutes you are able to get a flu, strep or RSV swab done, get prescription treatment or over the counter medication and be on your way.

They also have a focus on natural medicine, which started because of a personal journey. Right after Mills purchased the pharmacy from her parents, her father was diagnosed with NonHodgkins Lymphoma.

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Education & Workforce “After surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation at Vanderbilt, my dad was told he had less than one year to live - right before I gave birth to my first baby,” she said. “That was not acceptable to me, so I started researching.”

They met with a naturopath and formulated a plan of diet and lifestyle changes and supplements.

“I fell in love with a system of treatment that focuses on solving the underlying problems and gave hope to those who were told there was nothing else they could do,” she said.

She then got her Doctorate in Naturopathy so she could carry quality supplements in the pharmacy. Being the only integrative and holistic pharmacy in the area has added a new dimension to the business. Mills said many clients want an alternative to medicines to treat symptoms and side effects.

“I have also done over 30 DNA swabs to give a detailed report on the best foods and exercise for weight loss - based on their genetics - as well as likely vitamin deficiencies, and possible health issues according to their DNA,” Mills said. “We are the only pharmacy in our area that is able to offer these services, and we are able to practice to the full extent of our doctorate education.”

Through all the innovation, the pharmacy still holds its traditional values. “We still know the names of our customers and greet you as you come in the door,” she said.

Owensboro Family Pharmacy wants to improve and disrupt the way healthcare is delivered in the community. They are a resource.

“If you are not satisfied with the current status of your health, feel like just another number in the healthcare system, have been abandoned and have no further options, or you aren't getting the care you deserve,” Mills said. “If you want education, options, empowerment, or just someone you trust to care about you - come and see us. Our passion and fulfillment come from being our patient's advocate, and we want to celebrate your accomplishments and continued health with you.”

Nominees:

All About You Salon & Spa, CYO Brewing, Imperial Lawns, Owensboro Family Pharmacy, Rehabilitation and Performance Institute PSC and Wonder Boy Media 32

GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

BRESCIA W UNIVERSITY

Part of the Fiber of Owensboro

Brescia University has been providing educational opportunities in the Greater Owensboro area for nearly a century. Founded in 1925 as the Mount Saint Joseph Junior College for Women, Brescia’s rich history is rooted in the Ursuline tradition of responding to community needs and providing opportunity for those who might otherwise have none.

Business and teacher training courses were the foundation upon which Brescia was built. Recognized for its academic quality and rigor, demand grew, and the Junior College soon became co-ed. After the end of WWII, at the request of city leaders, the Ursuline sisters began offering courses in downtown Owensboro to better meet the needs of veterans returning home from the war. In 1948, the Maple Mount location was consolidated into the downtown campus, and in 1950, then Brescia College was born. In 1998, the name was once again changed to Brescia University when graduate programs were added to the vastly expanded curriculum. While the name may have changed, Brescia University is as deeply rooted in the Ursuline focus on personal and social transformation through education today as it was in 1925.

Honorably deemed as the gateway to downtown, Brescia University is not only changing the face of the campus and downtown, but also the landscape of Owensboro. Renovations to the Moore Center, the construction of the C.E. Field Center for Professional Studies on the corner of 9th and Frederica Streets, and a new residence hall on St. Ann Street, along with future construction expectations are not only investments of nearly $20 million into the local economy. They are investments in the lives students, the strength of the University, and the future of the community. The value added by the productivity and contributions of Brescia University graduates to the Greater Owensboro area are immeasurable.

Brescia alumni include physicians, lawyers, CEOs, teachers, social workers, engineers, coaches, priests, sisters, moms and dads, and a multitude of other life vocations. Over half of Brescia University graduates have stayed in the Greater Owensboro area to live and work and plant their family’s seeds. Brescia University is part of the fiber of Owensboro, and the driving force that propels the institution forward is the belief that through education, lives are transformed and through those lives, the world becomes a better place.

Thank you to the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce for recognizing the contribution Brescia University makes in our community.

Nominees:

Brescia University, Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service and Daviess County Public Library

51 or More Employees W

SOUTHERN STAR

L TO R: TAMI WILSON SHAWN PATTERSON JIMMY STATON

Committed to Communities

Southern Star is a leading transporter of natural gas to America’s heartland, with approximately 6,000 miles of natural gas transmission pipeline in the Midwest and Mid-Continent regions of the United States.

Their pipeline system, facilities and employees are located in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska and Texas, with headquarters in Owensboro.

Although the relatively new company name, Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, came into being in 2003, they have provided over 110 years of continuous, quality service since their formation in 1904. But don’t let their long history fool you — they are undertaking a massive modernization effort to implement the latest materials and technology.

This will involve pipe replacement, new compression systems, gas measurement upgrades, state-of-the-art software to manage their systems, and many others upgrades.

President and CEO, Jimmy Staton, said Southern Star is committed to their communities.

“Southern Star employees serve as mentors to students, help reconstruct towns after natural disasters, volunteer with local charitable organizations and coach children’s teams,” he said. “We’re neighbors and friends, and we support our employees’ volunteerism and provide time for employees to make a difference where they work and live. One of our latest endeavors is supporting and being involved with local robotics teams. We’re forming lasting relationships with our schools and talented,

young people who will be the future of companies like ours.”

Southern Star’s corporate character extends to how they treat the environment and approach their work. Southern Star is a steward of environmental awareness and cooperation with landowners and the government.

“We believe in honesty in our dealings and seek out like-minded companies with which to do business,” said Shawn Patterson, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer. “We’re invested in Owensboro and our other local communities. Our business partners and communities know we are serious about productive and responsible operations. Safety is paramount, and we show it in our daily work and expect it from others who work for us.”

Tami Wilson, Vice President and Chief Financial and Administrative Office said Owensboro has been an ideal spot for their headquarters.

“The talent Owensboro creates and draws in has proven to be exceptional,” she said. “Local and nearby graduates are a major portion of our workforce. I recently relocated to Owensboro to be a part of this team, and I’ve been impressed with the generosity and talent in our local community and in our people.”

Southern Star appreciates the recognition as Chamber Business of the Year and will continue to live up to that title for many decades to come.

For more information on the company, visit sscgp.com.

Nominees:

Don Moore Automotive, Hendrick Screen Company, Jagoe Homes Inc., Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Owensboro PSC, Owensboro Dermatology Associates PSC and Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline Inc. 33

GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

11-50 Employees

Manufacturing

W BANK OLD NATIONAL

O.Z. TYLERW DISTILLERY Since opening for production in 2016, O.Z. Tyler Distillery has tripled their product output and added 70 new jobs. Now part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Experience, O.Z. Tyler is also a major tourism draw for Greater Owensboro by hosting distillery tours where visitors experience a behind the scenes look at how Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey is made.

Nominees:

Castlen Steel LLC, Kentucky Legend, O.Z. Tyler Distillery, Owensboro Grain, Perdue Foods and Toyotetsu Mid America.

Non-Profit

PUZZLEWPIECES Opened in 2012, Puzzle Pieces is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Activity Day Center meeting the needs and interests of individuals with intellectual disabilities ages 8 and up. Programming includes an adult day program, summer session, afterschool, holiday, and one Saturday session a month. Its mission is to promote independence, life skills, community access and involvement, social interaction, communication, self-worth and building trusting relationships between clients, staff, and families.

Beyond that, it’s a fun, caring place full of fun, caring people supported by community events such as the Color Blast 5K and Owensboro Lip Sync Battle.

Nominees:

CASA of Ohio Valley, Crossroads Inc., Daniel Pitino Shelter, Hospice of Western Kentucky, Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, Puzzle Pieces, St. Joseph’s Peace Mission for Children and Western Kentucky Botanical Garden.

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Old National Bank Strengthens Owensboro Technology has made banking easier, faster, more convenient. But there remains value in personal relationships and knowing your bank offers 180-plus years of experience serving families and businesses. Through the generations, Old National has grown to be the bank for people today.

ONB has been in Owensboro since 1999 and now has four locations in Daviess County. Their commitment to live out their organizational values happens within the walls of their buildings and in the communities they serve.

Throughout their history, Old National has been focused on strengthening the communities they serve through associate volunteerism, corporate sponsorships, foundation grant awards and financial education initiatives. For the last 20 years this commitment has extended to the Owensboro community and serves as the cornerstone of their identity and helps define their mission and vision as a financial institution.

Wade Jenkins, Western Kentucky Region President of Old National Bank, said Old National views Owensboro as a progressive and vibrant growing city.

“We are proud to play a small part in the continued transformation of this western Kentucky jewel on the Ohio,” he said. “As a community bank it’s an easy decision to support our Owensboro and Daviess County community.”

Jenkins said community is an important focus of Old National and over the past four years, the bank’s 21 local associates have given more than 5,800 hours of their time volunteering, which would equate to about $138,000. Most of the company’s efforts were focused on their signature event, 100 Men Who Cook, along with other initiatives such as the Boulware Mission’s Dancing with Our Stars – Owensboro Style, Child Abuse Awareness Month and DCPS First Generation Scholars.

“The passion that Old National Bank carries for the communities we serve is obviously reflected by our associates,” Jenkins said. “Owensboro associates are deeply involved because it is our home. We focus on what we can do to make Owensboro even better.”

Nominees:

Champion Ford Lincoln Mazda, Haley-McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory, J’s Liquor and Cheese Shop, Keller Williams Elite Realty, Old National Bank and Owensboro Family Eye Care.

1-10 Employees W

GENE'S HEALTH FOOD

Continuing to Grow

Gene’s Health Food Inc., and Fresh by Gene’s food truck are owned by the brother-sister duo of Andrew Keller and Karissa Costello and newcomer Olivia Vancil.

Vancil, who began working at the store while she was in college, became co-owner and manager at the end of 2018.

The three help run one of the oldest health food stores in Owensboro, which has been family-owned and operated since 1980.

Keller and Costello bought the store from their grandfather, Gene Clark, in 2013 and began expanding the business by adding a wellness center and a food truck and bringing greater variety to their inventory.

The store also includes supplements, groceries with allergyfriendly options, international and organic selections, organic produce and a mostly organic deli and juice bar. Everything is made fresh and in-house.

Vancil said finding a balance of healthy sustainable living and enjoying what she eats, has been a question that has fueled her fire since the beginning of her career.

“As soon as I stepped into Gene's Health Foods as an employee — and at the time that's all I saw myself as — I found an overwhelming sense of relief that I could find my answer. Now as a manager and co-owner of my favorite spot in town, I get to see other people find the same joy.”

She said her customers are the reason she can turn her passion into a career.

“Nutrition was just a side interest for so long and now it's my whole world,” she said. “I love serving this community and I love how receptive our community is.”

Sandra Mendez, who handles marketing and events for the store, said people are often impressed with how well the store has done in “an area not known for being healthy.”

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

“I don’t think that’s entirely true, that’s an awful wide brush to paint our community,” she said. “We’re a more diverse town than that, and we want to make sure that we’re not just serving those who are already on a healthy journey but we also want to be there for people who are more in a middle-of-the-road healthy style as well as those seeking information about making changes.”

Keller said there are few things in life as pleasing as providing nourishment for people.

“To do that and realize my grandfather's dream of making the health food store what it is today,” he said. “You can’t buy that kind of fulfillment. I’m glad I was raised with the store in the backdrop, it gave me unique insight on how best to serve Owensboro.”

Costello said she does not think of the patrons as customers, but as friends and family.

“Everyone has a story, concern, joy, and or passion they wish to share, as well as to be better everyday,” she said. “I believe encouraging these visions and sharing the journey is our purpose, whether it be adapting a healthier diet, conquering a health concern, simply taking more pride in the way we treat our bodies, or expanding our knowledge of raising healthier families.”

Located at 1738 Sweeney St., the store also has a Wellness Annex where people can get massages and try Reiki, nutrition coaching and reflexology.

Nominees:

Aflac Keller & Associates LLC, Compass Counseling of Owensboro LLC, Gene’s Health Food Inc., Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Gavin C. Roberts Agency, L. Ruth Interior Design, Packages Plus, Peacocks & Pearls and Preservation Station Market & Event Center.

Individual Awards: W

Chamber Ambassador

MINGA TROGDLEN INDEPENDENCE BANK

W

Leadership Owensboro

BRAD YOUNGMAN

DAVIESS COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

W

Chamber Director

DAVE ROBERTS

UNIFIRST CORPORATION

W

CYP Member

MARIO VIZUET

OLD NATIONAL BANK

Rick Kamuf Agribusiness

WFARMS HAYDEN

Hayden Farms has been raising sustainable beef and poultry since 1983. The Hayden family is well known for their passion for agriculture with a mind for innovation. A recent example is the addition of an educational center and viewing area in the new poultry house which gives school groups and other visitors an inside look into how chickens are raised and cared for.

Nominees:

Elliot Farms, Estes Farms, Farm Credit Mid-America, Hayden Farms, Hill View Farms Meats LLC, Owensboro Regional Farmers Market, Reid’s Orchard and Trunnell’s Farm Market.

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

W

Chamber Member of the Year

VISIT OWENSBORO W

Bill Young Community Leadership Award

TISH CORREA-OSBORNE GIRLS INC.

W

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

RACHEL BALLARD AND WENDELL FOSTER CEO ERIC SCHARF

Variety of Service

BUT THE SAME GOAL

BY NICHOLAS HARDESTY

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

. PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

M

oonlite vs. Old Hickory.

Owensboro High School vs. Owensboro Catholic High School. Tony Clark Realtors vs.

Kelly Anne Harris Team. Rolling Pin vs.

The Family Bakery.

When we look at what makes Owensboro great, it’s easy to fall into the habit of pitting our city’s restaurants, stores, schools and organizations against one another. We can get into heated debates about which ones are the best.

But, when it comes to the organizations that serve individuals with physical and

intellectual disabilities, Owensboro is great because these organizations don’t compete. They work together.

Take Wendell Foster and Puzzle Pieces, for example.

Wendell Foster

Wendell Foster is the pioneer organization in Owensboro serving individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Wendell Foster was founded

by Wendell and Edith Foster, who, in 1947, after years of research and training, turned their home into a residential treatment center for the children of seven local families. Education was provided in the dining room, and physical and occupational therapies were conducted with homemade equipment in the backyard.

Today, Wendell Foster has a staff of more than 380 professionals who provide a host of services for the community, including outpatient therapy (physical, speech and occupational); residential and community living assistance; autism services; and other support programs, such as an assistive technology and resource center; person-centered training; family support programs; transportation; and the “Respect Starts Now” educational campaign.

Recently, Wendell Foster has initiated a three-phase building project that will include the construction of three new buildings: a new maintenance building; a new 12,600-square foot comprehensive outpatient

ERIC SCHARF AND WAYNE SPANGLER

rehabilitation facility, and a new 8,000-square foot dietary, inventory and laundry building.

According to Eric Scharf, the current CEO, Wendell Foster has been a success in the community for so long because Owensboro is a city that invests in local organizations. “Wendell Foster is able to succeed because of the tight-knit community Owensboro offers.

Our existence would not be possible if it weren’t for the generous gifts given by the Owensboro community. We are proud to call Owensboro our home.”

The support and generosity of the local community explains why a relative upstart is able to succeed as well.

THE FOSTERS PROVIDING SERVICES IN THE BACKYARD OF THEIR HOME 39

GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

PUZZLE PIECES FOUNDER, AMANDA OWEN, WITH ERIK LAUMAS

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

Puzzle Pieces

Puzzle Pieces was founded in the summer of 2011 by Amanda Owen. Her experiences working as a multiple disabilities teacher and growing up alongside a brother with a rare chromosomal abnormality inspired her to create a nonprofit for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Their mission is to provide a safe environment for individuals with intellectual disabilities and to promote independence, life skills, community access and involvement, social interaction, communication, self-worth, and trusting relationships between clients, staff and families.

The heart of Puzzle Pieces is the activity day center, where children and adults with disabilities can spend quality time learning, socializing, and engaging with the community.

During the morning and afternoon this programming is primarily for adults, but at 2:30, programming is extended to create an after-school setting for school-aged children.

Pieces also provides support that empowers adults with intellectual disabilities to live independently.

It might be difficult to imagine that our city is large enough to support both organizations. Don’t their services overlap too much? But, we need to banish that way of thinking. Owensboro is large enough for any organization that is driven by a passion to serve the community. “Puzzle Pieces isn’t successful solely because of donations and grants from our local community,” Amanda said, “but also because Owensboro citizens truly care and have been open to learning and embracing those with disabilities.”

And, when organizations like Wendell Foster and Puzzle Pieces work together, the community is doubly empowered.

As Amanda went on to explain, “We succeed because we want to be a collaborative partner with everyone. We have welcomed and worked with almost all of the therapy agencies in our community. It is very rewarding for us and a win-win for our clients and their families!”

An extension of Puzzle Pieces, called Center Piece,

At the end of the day, perhaps we should be thinking

provides education, training, and skills development on a

less about “who’s best” and more about what we can do to

separate site for older teenagers and adults to equip them

support all of the local nonprofits and organizations that

for employment and volunteerism in the community. Puzzle

make Owensboro great.

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GO CHAMBER . FIRST QUARTER 2019

OW E N S B O RO B U I L D S A

HOME FOR BLUEGRASS “It is, like the story of the original pioneers of Bluegrass Music, a story of coming together as a community to offer something unique to the rest of the world.”

T

here are several clichés that can apply to the transformation and triumph that is Owensboro’s connection to Bluegrass music. The old adages, “Rome wasn’t built in a day” and, “If you build it, they will come” (okay, so technically that’s

a line from “Field of Dreams”) definitely describe the process of making Owensboro the country’s base for Bluegrass. However, there’s nothing cliché about what’s happening with the International Bluegrass Museum and Hall of Fame. It’s fresh, it’s fun, it’s thriving, and it’s uniquely ours.

“It all started when I was on the tourist commission in the early 80s,” recalls

Terry Woodward, local entrepreneur and 2018 inductee into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame. “We hired a marketing committee from out of town and well, they didn’t come

BY LIBBY JOHNSON

up with anything.”

At the time, Woodward was heavily involved in Nashville’s country music scene,

and had witnessed the success of FanFest and the CMA awards. “I just thought…it’s the Bluegrass state, Bill Monroe was born 30 minutes away…why not give Bluegrass 42

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LEFT: PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY BELOW: PHOTO BY ALEX MORGAN, COURTESY OF THE BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM BOTTOM: PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY, COURTESY OF THE BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

a home?”

the museum and hall of fame, we have 52 weeks of bluegrass a

year, instead of just one,” Woodward says.

“It took a while,” Woodward says, “but our timing was

good.” Woodward says he could never have predicted the

biggest change that has occurred since Owensboro entered the

Drew Kirkland, a local businessman and self-professed music

bluegrass scene. In the past two decades, bluegrass has become

junkie, says that though he and his family business partners

increasingly popular with young people. “We’ve been the

rarely advertise, they’ve sponsored ROMP from the beginning.

recipient of that change, for sure,” he says.

“It’s easily the best event Owensboro has and the easiest way to

The popularity of modern bluegrass, and the love of the

pull out-of-state friends to Owensboro every year. I can’t believe

traditional sound is celebrated each year in late June when

I don’t have to meet friends in Nashville or Birmingham for a

thousands of people attend come from near and far to attend

festival like this.”

ROMP. ROMP, which originally stood for River of Music Party,

developed out of a need to fill the gap left when the International

Bluegrass Music Museum and Hall of Fame, says that the

Bluegrass Music Awards (IBMA) ceased to be held in in

evolution of ROMP from a small festival into an anticipated

Owensboro. “We hated to lose the award show, but now with

annual event featuring name brand talent translates with the

The 16th year of ROMP will be held June 26-29, 2019.

Chris Joslin, Executive Director of the International

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PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY

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concept of place making.

“It’s not just a museum. The live performance/live music piece, coupled with the permanent exhibits and the other capabilities IBMM has (such as the ability to livestream concerts with high quality audio and video) puts this on the same par as the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame, and we’re finally acting like it.”

Owensboro native, Madison Silvert, who previously served as President and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation, says, “There is no other town in America that can say it houses the Bluegrass Hall of Fame. That asset is uniquely Owensboro’s. We should be proud of the support we provide the Bluegrass Community, the brand that gives our town, and the story it allows us to tell.”

“It is, like the story of the original pioneers of Bluegrass Music, a story of coming together as a community to offer something unique to the rest of the world,” he says.

Joslin agrees that community and connection are a common thread between the music and the IBMM/Hall of Fame.

“In November, Ricky Skaggs played back to back shows,” Joslin says. “I walked in and he and his band were in the Picking Parlor (a permanent exhibit of pro-level instruments that have been donated to the museum) just having a jam session.” Joslin says a visitor from Michigan, who had come for Skaggs’ concert was standing in awe. “She said, ‘It’s the show before the show,’” he says.

According to Joslin, “the power of the project” that is Owensboro as a destination for Bluegrass music and more is strength in numbers.

“It’s not any one thing,” he says, mentioning hotels, distilleries, restaurants, and retail. “There’s a story to tell, and we contribute.”

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10

QUESTIONS ROB BARNETT

Director for the Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport

BY BENJAMIN HOAK - PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

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WHAT I S YOUR BACKG R O UND, AND HOW DI D YOU JOI N T HE OWENSBOR O AI R PORT?

here, including lots of economic development, retaining and recruiting other airlines, flight schools, modernizing facilities and more.

I graduated from Taylor County High School

There are a lot of amenities that most regional

and joined the United States Marine Corps,

airports cannot provide, including an airpark

where after basic training and infantry

adjacent to the taxiway and infrastructure

training, I attended school to become and

around the airport that’s shovel ready.

Expeditionary Aircraft Recovery Specialist.

This is where I began my Aviation Career.

After I was honorably discharged from the Marines I joined the Bowling Green Airport as a maintenance worker – the very bottom of totem pole. I worked my way up to maintenance supervisor and then assistant manager before I was hired as airport manager in 1999. I held that position for 19 years before coming to Owensboro at the end of November. OWB is a larger airport, there are two commercial airlines, Air Traffic Control, Larger Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting

We have approximately 70 airplanes on the field, in hangars or tied down in various locations. We maintain approximately 50,00060,000 operations a year (takeoffs or landings) for commercial, general, corporate, military or air ambulatory aircraft. We currently have 18 people employed by the Owensboro Daviess County Regional Airport.

WHAT DO YOU E NJOY ABOUT YOUR JOB?

Department and much more opportunity for

It’s very challenging and I work in an ever-

economic development on the airport. There

changing environment. Something different is

is more responsibility, more employees and

dealt to you every day. We never know what

more fiduciary responsibilities associated

we’re going to be dealing with when we come

with a larger airport.

through the door every morning. I like to be part of improving facilities and services for

WHAT D O YOU WANT PEOP LE TO KNOW ABOUT THE AI R PORT ?

We maintain a safe and efficient operational airport and the safety and security of the airport is my top priority. The airport is divided into multiple divisions including commercial, general and corporate aviation.

We manage economic development projects and multiple leases and I want this airport to be the welcome mat for the Owensboro community and our region.

the general public.

WHO ARE YOUR FAMILY ME MBE RS AND WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES AND INT E RES TS ?

My wife Tara and I have six kids ages 22, 16, 12, 7, 3 and 3. Our kids play sports and musical instruments, so I’m very active in those activities. I also enjoy college basketball, college football, the NFL, NASCAR and spending time with my family. We enjoy trying new restaurants, outdoor activities and

There is a significant amount of opportunity

traveling.

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WHAT IS ONE OF T HE BES T OR MOS T WORT H W H IL E INVES T ME NTS YOU HAVE E VE R MADE ?

I graduated high school and joined the Marine Corp at 17 years of age. My military experience is one of the better decisions I’ve made in life.

“I BELIEVE AS HUMAN BEINGS WE’RE ACCOUNTABLE FOR OUR ACTIONS.” -Rob Barnett

WHAT IS T HE BOOK YOU HAVE MOS T GIVE N AS A G IF T O R RE COMME NDE D? I really don’t have a good answer for this question because there are several books that I recommend for different occasions, but I will say this — over the past 27 years, I have acquired an abundance of airport stories of interest and humor. If you talk to anyone who knows me well, they will tell you: “Rob has a ton of stories.” Therefore, one day I may write a book maybe titled “Tales of an Airport Manager.”

WHAT ’S T HE NE X T IT E M ON YOUR BUCKE T LIS T ?

I’ve been very fortunate in life. I am very thankful that God has allowed me the opportunities that I have received. I’ve worked four presidential visits with the United States Secret Service. I have served as a VIP for NASCAR events and dropped the green flag on the last NASCAR race at Kentucky Motor Speedway. I’ve met lots of celebrities while working different events.

I have several country music artists who are friends of mine. I’m close friends with Joe Kenda from Homicide Hunter on Investigation Discovery Channel - I was president of South Central Kentucky Crime Stoppers for several years and was successful in recruiting Joe to come to our annual fundraising breakfast. I’m also a founding board member of Aviation Heritage Park in Bowling Green. The next thing on my bucket list might be to take all my kids to Disney World!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A COLLE GE GRA DUAT E ABOUT TO E NT E R T HE RE AL WORLD? Maintain a strong work ethic, be responsible, be accountable for your actions and never be late to work.

WHAT IS YOUR MOT IVAT ION IN LIFE ?

My family and integrity. Integrity is incredibly important to me. I believe as human beings we’re accountable for our actions. We must maintain a high level of integrity to set an example for kids. I’m incredibly passionate about what I do – I maintain a high level of enthusiasm.

IF YOU COULD P UT UP A GIANT BILLBOARD WIT H ANY T HING ON IT, WHAT WOULD IT SAY ?

Fly Owensboro!

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DID ?

YOU

KNOW

CORRECT ANSWER:

FIREBALL WHISKY FROM PAGE 7

Fireball Whisky is bottled at Glenmore Distilleries in Owensboro. Owned by the Sazerac Company, the cinnamon-flavored whiskey is produced in both Canadian and American locations before being bottled at Glenmore in Owensboro. As of the end of 2018, Fireball was the third-highest selling whiskey in the United States.

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THE FINAL ANALYSIS JACLYN GRAVES

Membership Development Manager

Comparison is the thief of joy…or something

in suits, baristas in jeans and company tees,

like that. We all do it though, right? We

non-profits, sign makers, farmers, boutique

compare our personal relationships, the

owners, professors and everything and

number of likes given on Facebook, our

everyone in between.

children’s achievements (or lack thereof), the square footage of our homes and price tags of vehicles. We see the goodness in others but not ourselves and in turn, miss out on just how great our lives really are.

beloved Owensboro as well. We miss out on what this city has to offer because we’re too busy focusing on what everyone else is doing. We’re discounting the greatness and the opportunities we have here because we’re too worried about how green someone else’s bluegrass is.

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to embrace all of our corporate differences. business community.

We are one of the few cities of our size throughout the country that is actually growing and thriving. And, I believe it’s because we see our own strengths, grow from our differences and build upon them both.

It’s how we should treat ourselves and how we

At any given monthly Rooster Booster

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impressive our business community really is That’s the beauty of this Greater Owensboro

Unfortunately, we tend to compare our

breakfast,

It’s also a great chance to see how diverse and

we

have

300-400

attendees

should feel about Owensboro. There really is something here for everyone, if you just take

gathered at the Convention Center to network

the time to look around and appreciate what

together and to engage themselves in what’s

we have to offer. And if we stop comparing

going on in the Chamber world. If you’ve

ourselves to those around us, we could take

never been, you should join us. I love that

more pride and promise in what we already

you will see a little bit of everything; bankers

have, as well as what’s to come.

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200 E 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 http://chamber.owensboro.com

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO KY 42301 PERMIT NO 420