July/August 2025 Chamber Current

ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP

MAY

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce hosted its May Rooster Booster breakfast, proudly sponsored by New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services. Attendees heard from featured speaker Paul Finley, an Owensboro native and current Mayor of Madison, Alabama. Mayor Finley shared a powerful message focused on the importance of collaboration and unity in driving community progress, drawing from his personal journey and experiences in public service.

In addition to Mayor Finley’s inspiring remarks, the Chamber also highlighted the work of its Chamber Young Professionals, recognizing the impact of the Guys with Ties program. This initiative empowers young boys in local schools to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and engage positively with their communities.

Sponsor:

Speaker: Paul Finley

JUNE

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce hosted its June Rooster Booster breakfast, with the program proudly sponsored by Western Kentucky University in Owensboro. The event featured a homecoming of sorts as Owensboro native and former Chamber Board Chair J. Todd Inman took the stage as the keynote speaker. Now serving as a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board, Inman reflected on his early professional roots in Owensboro, his time with the Chamber, and the critical role of leadership and safety in public service. His inspiring journey from local business owner to national policymaker resonated deeply with the audience.

Sponsor: Speaker: J. Todd Inman

CHAMBER

NEW MEMBERS

Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation

A-PRO Roofing

At Home Self Storage

Blue Star Restoration

Chuck’s Locksmith Service

Combined Insurance

Comfort Keepers

Custom Staffing

HQ Wellness

Kentucky Farm Bureau InsuranceJeremy Newcom

Moreno’s Roofing

The New Oasis Tanning & Wellness Salon

Third Baptist Church

Wonder Whip

Your Wax Spot

RENEWALS

Addiction Recovery Care

Alexander & Company CPAs PSC

American Patriot Getaways

AT&T

Bella Ragazza Boutique

BoldAge Pace

Borrowed Hearts Owensboro

Brad Emberton’s Heating and Cooling

Bryant Engineering, Inc.

Cabinets Unlimited

C and P Trucking LLC

Carpets Unlimited Flooring Center

Carter Lawn Management, LLC

Cayce Mill Supply

Charter-Calumet Trace Senior Living

Cheetah Clean Auto WashFrederica

Christian Appalachian Project

Compass Counseling of Owensboro, LLC

Consolidated Mechanical, Inc.

Cornerstone Information Systems, Inc.

Courier Express

Culver’s Restaurant

Custom Audio-Video, Inc.

D.J. Johnson

Daviess County Detention Center

Dental Designs of Owensboro

Dialog Telecommunications

Dispo 4th Street Inc

Elite Risk Advisors

Elizabeth Design Studio, LLC

EPIC Realty

Evergreen Lawn Care Inc./Weed Man

Five Star Food Services/John Conti Coffee

Fresh Start for Women, Inc.

Gipe Auto Color Inc.

GMRRLLC doing business as Roto Rooter

Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp.

Green River Area Community Foundation

Hayden and Co. PSC, CPAs

Heritage Federal Credit Union

Holiday Inn - Owensboro Riverfront

HPC - Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky

J. Todd Thompson CPA PSC

Jagoe Homes, Inc.

John E. Hammen, D.M.D., Owensboro Center for Oral &

Maxillofacial Surgery PLLC

Jones Insurance Agency

Josh’s Broken Feather Inc

Judge Jeff S. Taylor

Kentucky Farm Bureau InsuranceJamie Wright

KM Specialty Pump/ Straeffer Pump & Supply

Kodiak Resources, Inc Kroger Co.

Lafarge

Lanham Brothers General Contractors, Inc.

Lee Brick & Block, Inc.

Malone Workforce Solutions

McCarty’s Auto & Truck Repair

MentorKids Kentucky

Mercy Ambulance of Evansville, Inc. Midsouth Rentals

Midwest Communications, Inc WSTO

Mint & Ivory Dentistry, Brittany Winn McKinley, DMD Miracle Ear

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn, Inc.

MPD, Inc.

Ohio Valley Insurance LLC

Overtime Drywall Company & Plastering

Owensboro Career Development Assoc., Inc.

Owensboro Dance Theatre, Inc.

Owensboro Health Foundation

Owensboro Human Relations Commission

Owensboro Municipal Utilities

Owensboro Museum of Science & History

P & H Fabrication & Machine

PakMail/Store It All

PC Quest

Pilot Steel, Inc.

Pirate Proles, Inc.

PNC Bank

Porter Concrete

Premier Medical Group

Preservation Station Market and Event Center

PROMAN Staffing

RE/MAX Professional Realty Group, Scott Lyons

Retirement & Financial Strategies

Riverside Transport, Inc

S&S Earthscapes, LLC

Shield Security

Shoe Stop

Slim Chickens

Strength Renewed LLC

Summit Medical Specialists

Super 8

T.H.E. Insurance Group

Texas Roadhouse

Tony Clark Realtors, LLC

Tri State Fire & Safety, Inc.

Underground Vaults and Storage

Unique Granite & Marble

Vancil Insurance Services LLC

WEHT ABC 25/WTVW Local 7

Wendell Foster

Wendell H. Ford Government Education Center

Western Kentucky Distilling Co

Western Kentucky Minerals

Whitesville Community Credit Union

Wingate Inn

12 p.m. | Chamber of Commerce

Third Floor Conference Room RSVP required to Kitty Jones at kjones@owensboro.com

Third Floor Conference Room RSVP required to Ashtin Warren at awarren@owensboro.com

LUNCH MEETING

12 p.m. | Chamber of Commerce

Third Floor Conference Room

NOW AVAILABLE! Sponsorship Opportunities are available, but going quick! Reach out to Julia Brooks at jbrooks@owensboro.com to secure your spot!

CHAMBER AFTER HOURS

Fairfield Inn

Chamber After Hours events are designed to connect business leaders and showcase member organizations in a welcoming, lighthearted environment.

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce hosted a memorable Chamber After Hours in partnership with the newly renovated Fairfield by Marriott Owensboro. Held in June, the event brought together Chamber Members, community leaders, and young professionals for an evening of celebration, networking, and connection.

The festivities began with a ribbon cutting ceremony, marking the grand reopening of the hotel following an extensive renovation. Guests enjoyed guided tours throughout the evening, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the redesigned spaces and updated amenities.

Live music from the Owensboro Symphony added to the vibrant atmosphere.

“The grand re-opening and renovation of the Fairfield Inn Owensboro marks an exciting milestone for our community,” said Kitty Jones, Director of Membership, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. "It is inspiring to see such commitment to revitalization and hospitality in our region. We're proud to celebrate this investment in our community’s future and welcome guests to Owensboro to experience all Fairfield has to offer."

CHAMBER AFTER HOURS Wingate by Wyndham

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce celebrated the grand reopening of Wingate by Wyndham Owensboro with a special Chamber After Hours event in May. Held at the fully renovated hotel, the event welcomed Chamber Members, community leaders, and guests for an evening of networking, celebration, and a first look at the hotel’s revitalized space.

The evening featured a ribbon cutting ceremony, where attendees heard from owner Sunny Patel, who shared heartfelt remarks about the renovation journey.

“It’s been a long road getting here, but we couldn’t be more excited to finally welcome guests to the newly renovated Wingate by Wyndham Owensboro,” Patel said. “This project has truly been a labor of love — from top to bottom, inside and out — and we’re proud of how far it’s come.”

Guests enjoyed guided tours of the renovated hotel, highlighting the upgraded design, enhanced guest experience, and renewed hospitality focus. The event also featured a business card raffle with three lucky winners receiving a complimentary night’s stay.

“The grand reopening of Wingate by Wyndham marks an exciting milestone not just for Sunny Patel and his team, but for our entire community,” said Kitty Jones, Director of Membership at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

“Locally owned businesses are the heart of our regional economy, and it’s inspiring to see such commitment to revitalization and hospitality.”

The Wingate reopening served as a perfect example of community celebration and local investment in Owensboro’s continued growth.

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.

DONATOS HOSTS HANDS-ON PIZZA EXPERIENCE FOR THE OPPORTUNITY CENTER

Donatos recently welcomed friends from the Opportunity Center of Owensboro for a fun and flavorful field trip! Guests got a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour, learned the art of crafting Donatos’ signature pepperoni pizza, and created their own cheesy masterpieces. It was a day full of learning, laughter, and connection.

TEXAS ROADHOUSE KEEPS GIVING, EVEN WHILE MOVING

While Texas Roadhouse temporarily closed its doors in May and June to relocate to their new home, their commitment to the community never paused. The team generously donated 70 delicious meals to The Daniel Pitino Shelter, bringing big smiles and full bellies to those they served.

MAY // JUNE

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.

GRACELAND PORTABLE BUILDINGS AND METAL STRUCTURES

Graceland Portable Buildings and Metal Structures officially opened their Owensboro site in December 2024. The company offers a wide range of wood buildings and metal structures through Eagle Carports. Customers can choose from available lot inventory or build their own using a 3D configurator on the company’s website.

CHUCK’S LOCKSMITH SERVICE

What began as a retirement hobby for Chuck Davis in 1995 has grown into a thriving 24/7 mobile locksmith service now run by his grandson, Matt Boyd. Chuck’s Locksmith Service, which operates entirely on wheels, has become a trusted name in Owensboro and the surrounding region for residential, commercial, and especially automotive locksmith needs. Boyd officially took the reins from Davis in late 2015 and has since modernized the business to meet evolving demands.

CHAPTER ONE MARKETING

Chapter One Marketing, founded in 2022, has grown from a oneman operation into a full-service agency supporting local businesses through branding, digital content, and strategic marketing. With recent partnerships expanding their expertise in web, IT, and media production, the agency now offers a wide range of services under one roof. Rooted in community involvement, Chapter One is committed to being a true marketing partner invested in their clients’ success.

HAND THERAPY PLUS TOTAL BODY REHAB

Hand Therapy Plus offers outpatient occupational and physical therapy services for patients ranging from children to seniors. The clinic specializes in orthopedics, neurological conditions, certified hand therapy, pelvic floor therapy, chronic pain, vertigo, lymphedema, and more. The facility is also equipped with advanced tools such as an antigravity treadmill and offers various manual therapy techniques including myofascial release, dry needling, cupping, and kinesiotaping.

STEPHANIE BERTRAM

A proud veteran’s wife, mother of three, and active community advocate, Bertram embodies commitment, empathy, and hard work in all she does. As a realtor with BHG Realty, she is part of a seasoned team with 250 years of combined experience, enabling her to deliver expert, client-focused service. Guided by values of integrity and care, she is dedicated to ensuring every real estate journey is smooth and rewarding. Beyond her professional role, she remains deeply engaged in her community, fostering connections that strengthen and enrich local neighborhoods.

TWIN RIVERS NURSING AND REHAB

Twin Rivers Nursing and Rehab has become a staple in the Owensboro community, providing long-term care, respite services and rehabilitation for decades. Originally built in 1969, the facility has operated under a few different names before officially becoming Twin Rivers in the early 2000s. Their facility boasts the largest therapy gym in the area, offering occupational, physical and speech therapy. They also have respiratory therapists, a wound care doctor who visits twice weekly, and an on-site wound nurse available daily.

HEALTH QUEST MEDICAL CARE

Health Quest Medical Care has been serving the Owensboro community for more than a decade, providing primary care for adults 18 and older with a focus on individualized treatment and compassionate service. Led by Dr. Jennifer Martin, Health Quest offers traditional medical services such as physicals, chronic condition management, stitches, and minor procedures including ingrown toenail removal and treatment of skin lesions — all without the need for anesthesia.

JEREMY NEWCOM - KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU

Jeremy Newcom joined Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance as an agent in July 2024, but his commitment to Owensboro runs much deeper. A longtime resident, Newcom said he was inspired to join KY Farm Bureau to offer more than just insurance policies — he wanted to provide peace of mind to families and businesses across the community. Newcom’s office is located at 2645 Frederica Street inside Gavin Roberts’s agency. He provides a wide range of insurance services, including auto, home, life, health, earthquake, and flood insurance.

DAVIESS COUNTY SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Daviess County Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities. In addition to athletics, the program offers health and leadership opportunities that empower athletes on and off the field.

CLEAN GREEN PORTABLES

Clean Green Portables offers high-quality, eco-friendly portable restroom solutions for events and construction sites. With a reputation for reliable service, they deliver fully stocked and sanitized units to meet the needs of their customers, offering a comfortable and responsible restroom experience for all.

JENNIFER RICHARDSON

Jennifer Richardson, Director of Development, joined RiverPark Center in September 2021, bringing a wealth of experience in resource development. Dedicated to expanding RiverPark Center’s reach, Richardson focuses on strengthening relationships and cultivating new partnerships that enhance the organization’s impact. Richardson refined her development expertise through over 20 years of experience in nonprofit and state roles, gaining valuable skills in fundraising, revenue forecasting, and public speaking. In addition to her extensive background in philanthropy, she is a Certified Human Rights Consultant and actively engaged in the community as a Chamber Ambassador and Leadership Owensboro alum. An adaptable and results-driven leader, Richardson embraces change with resilience and determination. As a collaborative professional who values data-driven strategies and continuous growth, she is proud to call Owensboro home and remains dedicated to making a lasting impact in her community.

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

STEVE JOHNSON

YOU’VE PREVIOUSLY SERVED ON THE GREATER OWENSBORO CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND HAVE RECENTLY RETURNED FOR ANOTHER TERM. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO CONTINUE SERVING IN THIS ROLE, AND WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING OR MEMORABLE ASPECT OF YOUR BOARD EXPERIENCE SO FAR?

The Chamber represents business, and that is the heart of the community. I am honored to be able to contribute to such a driven organization with such incredible talent that is growing our entire community. Being out in the community and meeting like-minded individuals representing organizations that have our community’s best interest at heart has been the most rewarding experience of being a board member. It makes me so proud of what we have here in our community and region.

LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS IN OWENSBORO? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WHO WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY?

A peaceful transfer of the baton to the next generation of leaders in Owensboro that honors the past, but embraces the future is my greatest hope. Having had the opportunity to spend time with many of these young leaders, I know that will be the case. To our next generation, always remember, it is harder to move ahead if you don’t know where you’ve been. Choose to learn from the past but also choose not to stay there. Seize the now!!!

YOU’VE PLAYED A LEADING ROLE IN LAUNCHING THE GREATER OWENSBORO MUSIC COMMISSION AND ESTABLISHING OUR COMMUNITY AS THE “BLUEGRASS MUSIC CAPITAL OF THE WORLD.” WHAT INSPIRED THIS VISION, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE THESE INITIATIVES WILL ACCOMPLISH FOR OWENSBORO IN THE LONG TERM?

I truly love this community and that is after having lived previously in many parts of the country. There are so many talented

individuals in the community and region that we should celebrate. My passion for music, for creatives, and for this community is driving my interest in these initiatives. My desire is that when one comes to Owensboro, they are left knowing there is a welcoming “vibe” of the cultivation of creativity that can be found no where else.

YOUR CAREER SPANS OVER 35 YEARS IN GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, AND NOW YOU’RE DEEPLY INVOLVED IN ADVANCING THE ARTS THROUGH YOUR WORK WITH THE MUSIC COMMISSION AND BLUEGRASS MUSIC INITIATIVE. HOW HAVE THESE TWO VERY DIFFERENT SECTORS — PUBLIC SERVICE AND THE ARTS — INTERSECTED IN YOUR LIFE AND WORK, AND WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

I recall discussions years ago about working to recruit professionals to Owensboro to work in healthcare. It was not about having the best healthcare facility, because it was brand new and a wonderful place to practice. It was the other things a family may desire to locate here. On the top of that list are other attributes such as arts and culture. I firmly believe that God has provided me with a skill set over many years that allows the intersection of public service and the arts to work perfectly together at this time.

IT’S BEEN AN EXCITING SUMMER FOR YOUR FAMILY — WITH BOTH OF YOUR CHILDREN GETTING MARRIED JUST WEEKS APART! TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY, THE EXPERIENCE OF THOSE CELEBRATIONS (INCLUDING THAT MEMORABLE FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE), AND WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SUMMER IN OWENSBORO.

I have heard it said that in parenting, there is no spiking the ball across the goal line, but there are some high-five moments. The last few weeks have certainly been some high-five moments and I could not be prouder of my young adults. Yes, I would like to have them settling here in Owensboro, but that is in God’s time and His hands. The coming summer is truly a new season for Kim (my bride) and I being empty nesters. I look forward to reconnecting with Kim this summer and experiencing all the wonderful amenities of our community in a new light.

WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR FREE TIME IN OWENSBORO? ANY FAVORITE SPOTS, EVENTS, OR HIDDEN GEMS YOU’D RECOMMEND TO LOCALS OR VISITORS?

Boring, but I do like to read and always have several books at once, with numerous on tap. I do like to travel, camp, and hike, and our Commonwealth is such a hidden gem. Mammoth Cave and Rough River are just down road. The Green River is among the world’s most biodiverse, and it is right here for us to kayak. Land Between the Lakes is the just down the road the other way. And summer in Owensboro is filled with music and events, and so many are free, free, free. There are lots of places to see in the world, but there is no place like home. I love it here.

BLUEGRASS MUSIC HISTORY & ROOTS MURAL

PAULA GIESKE

BILLY STRINGS

An acrylic painting of Billy Strings on canvas playing bluegrass guitar.

BRITTANY SAMSIL

BLUEGRASS LEGENDS

This Bluegrass Legends painting is originally done in acrylic paint, charcoal pencil, and modeling paste for texture. The top starts with Bill Monroe’s house then to the Bluegrass Boys. It then goes to Doc Watson and Arnold Shultz. The Bluegrass Museum is behind Flat and Scruggs and Ricky Skaggs. The background then fades into an old map of Kentucky with Del McCoury at the bottom. Bluegrass instruments then fill in random spaces.

REX ROBINSON

RIVER OF MUSIC PARTY

One of the many festive moments featuring early ROMP performers Reel Time Traveling at English Park in Owensboro by the Ohio River where it all started!

ADALYNN OPAL LEACH

GOLDEN HARMONY: THE PILLAR OF BLUEGRASS

This stained-glass-style mural of Alison Krauss glows with vibrant hues, capturing her timeless grace and deep musical legacy. She stands as a radiant pillar of bluegrass, her flowing hair illuminated by golden light. Surrounding her, intricate sunflowers bloom, symbolizing warmth and growth. The stained glass effect casts a luminous aura, blending tradition with elegance. Deep in connection while fiddling, displaying her mastery while ethereal blues and greens evoke the soul of bluegrass.

The Greater Owensboro Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) launched a new public art project in partnership with the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the City of Owensboro, OWB Downtown LLC, and the Bluegrass Music Capital Initiative. This initiative celebrates Owensboro’s identity as the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World. Six curated art pieces were selected from submissions by artists and are now featured outside 214 Frederica Street — directly across from the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The display enhances downtown placemaking and honors both the deep roots and evolving diversity of bluegrass music.

AMY BURGAN

BRIDGING TRADITIONS

Acrylic painting of culturally diverse children representative of our population in Owensboro. Children are playing various bluegrass instruments. Allusion to the Blue Bridge in the background. Inspired by the great experience my own children had with bluegrass lessons when they were young.

A digital portrait of “the father of bluegrass” Bill Monroe. His visage hangs over a view all too familiar to native Kentuckians, the foggy blue mountains with a full moon in the clear night sky – an homage to one of his most famous songs “Blue Moon of Kentucky.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO CLASS OF 2025

Each year, Leadership Owensboro graduates a class of individuals who have completed an immersive program designed to explore key community issues, strengthen leadership skills, and empower participants to work collaboratively to improve the quality of life in our region. Along the journey, the program offers opportunities to forge lifelong friendships, cultivate valuable professional networks, and gain insight into the needs of the community.

Throughout the program, participants engage in sessions covering a wide range of topics which provide insight into the opportunities, challenges, and resources within the Greater Owensboro community. This deeper understanding equips class members to become more informed, engaged, and effective leaders.

“After each monthly session, I was so motivated about the new topic,” said Shannon Coomes, Class of 2025. “I routinely reflect on my notes when I feel the need to re-energize.”

Classmate Brittany Cottoner added, “My exploration of Owensboro’s past and present has provided the context I needed to fully grasp the systemic and cultural dynamics influencing our city. In doing so, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for where we’ve come from, as well as the work

still needed to ensure Owensboro is a place where everyone feels represented, valued, and included.”

One of the most impactful sessions of Leadership Owensboro, Human Needs and Services, challenged the class to consider the diverse demographics of our region and the critical services provided to meet those needs. The session provided a deeper understanding of the struggles and perspectives of both support agencies and the individuals they serve. It sparked meaningful dialogue about the gaps that exist in our community, and as a result, the Class of 2025 has launched a semiannual Hygiene Drive benefiting the Help Office. This effort is aimed at addressing one of the most basic needs identified during the program.

“Through this program, I’ve come to understand that leadership isn’t just about titles or recognition,” said Stephanie Bertram, graduate of the Class of 2025. “To be a leader is to inspire, to listen, to serve, and to act with vision and integrity. It means stepping forward when it’s hard, lifting others when they need it, and striving not just for success — but for impact.”

Applications are now open for the Leadership Owensboro Class of 2026. Each year, individuals are selected through a

competitive application process to join this impactful program — designed to develop strong, communityminded leaders who are committed to making a lasting difference in Owensboro and beyond. If you’re passionate about creating positive change, visit chamber.owensboro. com/leadership-owensboro for information.

“Perhaps the greatest strength of this program lies in the connections it fosters — connections to leaders, ideas, and experiences that challenge assumptions and inspire action.

I now carry a clearer vision of the community I want to help shape: one where people feel seen, supported, and equipped to thrive. And I feel more prepared to contribute to that vision in intentional and enduring ways.”

-BLAKE EDGE

WHERE OPPORTUNITY GROWS

The 2024 Nonprofit of the Year in the Human Services Field was awarded to the Opportunity Center of Owensboro, a long-standing organization that creates a supportive, inclusive community for individuals with disabilities. Since its founding in 1956 by a group of determined parents, the Opportunity Center has remained dedicated to one mission: providing training, advocacy, and support so individuals with disabilities can thrive and reach their life goals.

With services offered through the Supports for Community Living and Michelle P. Medicaid waivers, the Center provides a wide range of programs, including adult day training, community living supports, personal care services, and case management. Their focus on promoting independence and community inclusion continues to change lives by ensuring that every individual is seen, valued, and given the opportunity to grow.

LEADING WITH PURPOSE CHAMBER BOARD DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

WHERE INNOVATION MEETS IMPACT

This year’s Education & Workforce Development Institution of the Year goes to a transformative initiative that proves what’s possible when collaboration replaces competition. HealthForce Kentucky is a groundbreaking partnership among nine colleges and universities, 16 counties, and numerous public and private organizations. Together, they’ve built a nationally recognized model that expands access to high-level healthcare training and helps meet critical workforce demands.

At the heart of HealthForce Kentucky is a state-of-the-art 36,000-square-foot simulation center, equipped with OSCE rooms, a radiology suite, and labs for medical lab technician training. An immersive touch-responsive room creates dynamic learning experiences, while their mobile unit, HealthForce One, takes high-tech training directly to underserved areas. By blending innovation with accessibility, HealthForce Kentucky is growing the healthcare workforce, changing lives, and setting a powerful example for workforce development across the nation.

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce named Clay Ford as this year’s Director of the Year, recognizing his unwavering commitment to leadership and service. Selected by his fellow board members, Clay is praised not just for what he says, but for the way he shows up — with integrity, respect, kindness, and courage. A fourth-generation business owner and lifelong Chamber member, Clay has served as 2021 Chair of the Board, led the finance committee, and championed major initiatives including early childhood education, accessible childcare, and vital infrastructure and transportation projects. As one board member joked, he’s also the “best driver on the board.” This marks the third time in seven years that Clay has earned this honor — proof that leadership, when rooted in action and heart, leaves a lasting impact.

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.