OWENSBORO, Ky. (WFIE) – City and county leaders outlined major investments and economic achievements during the Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s first rooster booster meeting of the new year at the Owensboro Convention Center.

Owensboro City Manager Nate Pagan and Daviess County Judge Executive Charlie Castlen reflected on the past year’s successes while sharing plans for future development.

“We are not just meeting expectations, we are setting the standard for what a county can achieve,” Castlen said.

Economic development highlights

Both officials focused on the community’s successful year in terms of investments and economic growth.

Owensboro approved over 1,000 business licenses in 2025, including one for a family entertainment venue. Malibu Jacks is coming to the old Townsquare Mall.

The city highlighted projects in progress, including Operation Firehouse, a $30 million investment that includes a new fire station on Cravens Avenue.

Infrastructure improvements

County officials reported significant investments and improvements, including completion of the Old Hartford Road Bridge repair and the Box Culvert replacement on Baird Road.

“For fiscal year 25-26, the County will resurface nearly 13 miles of county roads,” Castlen said.

Public safety investments

The county is making a major investment in public safety infrastructure.

“The big things we have coming up two big things, they’re construction projects. One is a public safety facility, which will host the patrol division of the Sheriff’s Office, also be a third paid fire station for our county. Also host the EMA offices and will serve as the backup dispatch center,” Castlen said.

Castlen said the investment represents a better way of life for Daviess County and Owensboro residents.

“We are building a stronger, more connected county,” he said.

City officials said they are proud of their accomplishments and believe Owensboro is on the rise with the best yet to come.

By: Leslie Chapman 14 News

y

Mayor Tom Watson’s “State of the City” address to the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce on Thursday highlighted the city’s accomplishments and previewed projects expected to be completed later this year.

Watson delivered the presentation by video and was unable to attend Thursday’s event at the Owensboro Convention Center while recovering from an injury.

“This morning, we are tipping our hats to the milestones of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026,” City Manager Nate Pagan said as he introduced the video presentation.

Watson used his address to highlight the city’s acquisition of the “Massie property,” a 120.67-acre site on West Parrish Avenue near U.S. 60. The city purchased the site for $4.62 million.

The property “is now positioned to become the largest publicly controlled industrial site in our community,” Watson said.

Pagan said in the video that “the site is well prepared for future development.”

The city purchased the site at the recommendation of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp., Pagan said.

The city is anticipating the completion of several projects this year that city officials either undertook themselves or helped fund, including the downtown indoor sports facility and the new Senior Community Center for Owensboro-Daviess County, Watson said.

The sportsplex, dubbed the “Bluegrass Fieldhouse,” will “bring thousands of athletes and families to our city each year, adding even more life to downtown Owensboro and beyond,” Watson said.

The facility is scheduled to be completed in July, with the first events planned for August.

The new senior center is funded by both the City Commission and Daviess Fiscal Court. In addition to funds already committed to construction, the city purchased the property for the facility near the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden. Fiscal Court has also pledged up to an additional $500,000, matching what the senior center board raises through its campaign.

In the video, Shaelie Velez, city communications and marketing manager, said the facility will open to seniors in September.

The city will also complete work on the new Fire Station 3 on Cravens Avenue in the spring and then pivot to building a new Station 1 in the summer. The projects are part of a large Owensboro Fire Department modernization effort, under which all OFD stations will be remodeled or rebuilt except Station 1, which was built in the early 2000s. The city has already completed work on Station 2 and the new fire training center, which was finished last year.

The 18-court pickleball complex at Ben Hawes Park is also expected to open this year, Velez said.

According to the city’s December projects list, the complex is scheduled to be completed in May, though work has been affected by weather.

Among city departments, highlights from last year included the Owensboro Police Department’s latent fingerprint laboratory receiving accreditation from the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation.

Velez said only two latent fingerprint laboratories in the state have been accredited by the organization.

The parks department also opened new facilities last year at Dugan Best Recreation Center, Moreland Park and Shifley Park, Velez said.

This year, the city’s Community Development Department will focus on the Monarch Neighborhood Revitalization Area, which uses city and federal funds to finance housing and business improvements and to spur investment.

Velez said the previous Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area on the city’s west side used about $4 million in local and federal dollars and generated approximately $9 million in neighborhood investment from property owners.

On the financial side, Velez said the city has increased its general fund balance for eight consecutive years and that the fund grew by $700,000 in 2025. The city’s occupational tax revenue and net profits license fee revenue reached a “record high” last year, according to the video.

Watson said events such as “Illuminate” and other downtown festivals drew visitors to the city. The Owensboro Air Show will return in September, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as headliners.

“Owensboro is on the rise,” Watson said. “We’re creating experiences people talk about, building projects that matter and investing in a future that other communities are eager to learn from.”

By: James Mayse Messenger-Inquirer

Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen delivered his “State of the County” address Thursday during the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Rooster Booster breakfast at the Owensboro Convention Center.

Castlen noted numerous accomplishments Fiscal Court has achieved during the past year, as well as during the first three years of its current term, and he said it all starts with being fiscally responsible.

“We operate with a balanced budget,” Castlen said. “This strong financial position has allowed us to build a promising future for the next generation to grow, live, work and play.”

Castlen said Fiscal Court continues to be a strong supporter of economic development in the community. He noted that over the past three years, the county has had “what is undeniably the strongest run of economic growth by any Fiscal Court in recent memory,” with more than $415 million in new investment and 727 new jobs created since taking office.

Castlen noted the county faced two significant weather events last year, a hailstorm on March 15 followed by historic flooding in April. But he said the situation could have been much worse if not for fellow citizens, volunteers and first responders stepping up to help others in bad situations.

“I want to thank both Daviess County Sheriff Brad Youngman and Daviess County Clerk Leslie McCarty and their support staff for the hard work dealing with the aftermath of the hailstorm, as they processed nearly 9,000 hail-damaged titles, while continuing to deal with regular operations,” Castlen said. “I also want to thank all of our Solid Waste employees for their incredible work during the hailstorm and flood aftermath. From May and for several months following, our construction, demolition and debris (CD&D) volume was approximately four times the normal monthly amount.

“I commend the staff in all three areas for their creativity, dedication and service to our residents during this challenging time.”

Castlen said Fiscal Court has put much attention on improving public safety, including it having approved a significant pay raise for sheriff’s deputies that made the department more competitive with peer agencies, strengthening recruitment and retention. He also cited a recent pay hike for court security officers and the funding for six additional positions in the department.

“Daviess County Fiscal Court also supported key initiatives, including creating the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office’s first-ever cold case detective, and purchasing a radar trailer to improve roadway safety and reduce speeding,” Castlen said.

Castlen said Fiscal Court has been able to meet the needs of the volunteer fire departments, including an additional $100,000 that was added to the budget for capital replacement and station maintenance, and ongoing support continues for the Daviess County Fire Department Paramedic Program, with a continued focus on advancing firefighter medical readiness and strengthening interagency cooperation.

“The Daviess County Fire Department has launched an Advanced EMT program in partnership with Owensboro Community College,” Castlen said. “Two firefighters have already completed the program, with two more beginning this month. With these additions, the department is on track to have more than 50% of its personnel certified at the Advanced Life Support level by the end of 2026.

“This initiative made us the first non-transport Advanced Life Support provider in the commonwealth.”

Castlen said significant progress is being made on the new Public Safety Facility, “which remains one of our most impactful public safety investments.”

The design team has completed over 75% of the building blueprints.

The new facility is designed to house a new Daviess County Fire Department station, sheriff’s office patrol division, Emergency Management Agency department and a fully-equipped backup dispatch center.

“We anticipate the project will be ready to go out for bid in early spring,” Castlen said. “Additionally, this building will have space that serves as a shelter during severe weather events, living up to its name of a Public Safety Facility.”

Castlen noted significant salary increases were approved for deputy jailers to keep their pay competitive and award excellent performance, and Fiscal Court is moving forward with substantial renovations of the Daviess County Detention Center, a project with an estimated cost of $40 million. The project is expected to extend the life of Building One by 25 years.

“Because Daviess County carries virtually no existing debt, Fiscal Court can comfortably bond this project and absorb the cost of any additional personnel resulting from the expansion,” Castlen said. “Because of the conservative bent of this court, we are in excellent financial position.”

Castlen said between its contract with Gish Lawn & Landscape, LLC., nonprofit organizations and jail crews, just under 63 tons of trash was collected last year from Daviess County roadsides.

Castlen noted that construction is underway on a new CD&D pad to allow for proper separation of solid waste from construction debris at the Transfer Station. The project is necessary to meet state law that requires the trash tipping floor be cleared daily and to address operational challenges caused by increasing CD&D volume.

“Once completed, the new pad will make daily operations safer, more efficient and more manageable,” Castlen said.

Castlen said after many years of planning and attempts by two previous courts, the current administration successfully completed the Landfill Natural Gas project in partnership with Redtail Renewables, opening on Oct. 31 of last year. The project captures natural gas created from decomposing waste and converts it into clean, pipeline-quality gas, replacing the old flare system that wasted a valuable marketable asset.

“This public private partnership, completed without taxpayer funds, demonstrates an administration that gets things done,” Castlen said.

Castlen said the County Clerk’s Office has expanded its inventory of modern, secure election equipment through funding from Fiscal Court and Kentucky Election grants. The office now operates 67 print-on-demand devices, 63 scanners, 20 ADA ballot marking devices and over 90 electronic pollbooks.

“I have full confidence in our clerk’s office to oversee elections with the utmost integrity,” Castlen said.

Castlen said for Fiscal Year 2025-26, the county will resurface nearly 13 miles of county roads. He also noted Fiscal Court has invested a total of $3.8 million in initiatives that educate, inspire and bring people together, including having invested $2.5 million towards construction of the new Senior Community Center.

Castlen concluded his remarks by saying Daviess County has made great progress, thanks to the dedication of county staff and the support of the community.

“From advancing public safety initiatives and moving forward on projects like the CD&D pad and the Landfill Gas project, to investing $3.8 million in arts, education, and senior programs, we are building a stronger, more connected county,” Castlen said. “Everyday improvements like litter collection also show our commitment to keeping Daviess County a great place to live. We are truly thankful for our hardworking staff, our partners and our engaged community.

“Yes, that is you — and together, we are not just meeting expectations, we are setting the standard for what a county can achieve.”

By: Scott Hagerman Messenger-Inquirer

Pure Barre Owensboro is kicking off its 12th year with new ownership, a renewed energy, and a special offer to help people jumpstart their fitness goals in 2026.

Natalie Johnson officially took over ownership in October, buying the local franchise from longtime owner Annie McCrary. Johnson, who started as an instructor at the studio a decade ago, said the transition has felt like a full-circle moment.

“I actually started as an instructor there about 10 years ago,” Johnson said. “Then I took some time off when I had my kids, and most recently I’ve been a first-grade teacher. My husband and I decided to purchase the studio from Annie this past October.”

Pure Barre Owensboro has operated from the same location in Wesleyan Park Plaza since opening, and Johnson said it has built a loyal following over the years.

“We have clients that have been with us since the doors opened,” she said. “We’ve celebrated people who’ve completed more than 2,000 classes. It’s really a community — they feel like family.”

The studio offers four distinct formats: Classic (a low-impact, high-intensity workout that’s the foundation of the brand), Align (a yoga-flow inspired class with stretching), Define (focused on weightlifting), and Empower (a cardio-intensive option). Classes are typically 50 minutes long, with a 35-minute express version of Classic offered at lunchtime.

“We run classes all day long, every day of the week,” Johnson said. “Our earliest starts at 5:30 a.m. and we have several options throughout the day to fit different schedules.”

Pure Barre is a national brand with locations across the U.S. This year marks the company’s 25th anniversary.

Johnson said the Owensboro studio currently has about 10 instructors, many of whom have been part of the team for years — some starting as clients before becoming certified instructors.

“What sets us apart is that this is more than just a workout,” she said. “It’s a results-driven, science-backed program, but it’s also a place where friendships form, and people support each other through all parts of life.”

Memberships are flexible, ranging from class packs to unlimited monthly and annual options. Most clients choose an unlimited package, Johnson said, allowing them to attend as often as they’d like.

For those new to Pure Barre, the studio is offering a special January promotion: buy one class and try all four formats. Additionally, anyone can book a free introductory class through the website.

“It’s the perfect time of year to try something new,” Johnson said. “We’d love to have more people experience what Pure Barre is all about.”

For more information or to book a class, visit the Pure Barre Owensboro website.

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region. 

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

By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

After 10 summers serving sweet treats from her signature pink trailer on Owensboro’s west side, Sheila Crowe has closed the chapter on Pinky’s SnowCones and Snacks — but her food journey is far from over.

Crowe has shifted her focus to Crowe’s Catering and a growing line of homemade desserts, which she now offers for events and curbside pickup. The decision to close Pinky’s wasn’t easy, she said, but it was necessary as her business evolved.

“I didn’t want to close Pinky’s down,” Crowe said. “But between the catering and the home baking with the desserts, I just don’t have the time to do everything — and that was the biggest liability.”

Pinky’s first opened in 2015 across from McFarland Funeral Home, later relocating to the corner of Poplar and Fifth Street behind the H.L. Neblett Community Center. Crowe, who grew up in Baptisttown, said the original idea was to offer something fun and affordable to kids in the area.

“I obligated my summers there for 10 straight years,” she said. “It’s bittersweet, but it’s time to do what’s best for myself.”

The stand became known for its vibrant snow cones, walking tacos, and rotating lineup of sweets. When Kentucky passed its Home-Based Processing law in 2018, Crowe expanded into baked goods and began offering curbside pickup from her home. In 2021, she left her full-time job to pursue food entrepreneurship full time — and in 2023, she formally launched Crowe’s Catering.

Unlike traditional bakeries, Crowe’s dessert menu centers on “treats and goodies” like honey bun cakes, chess bars, pecan pie, cheesecake salad, and taffy grapes. Her cheesecakes, she said, are a top seller.

“I don’t do your typical cakes,” she said. “It’s all the desserts you remember from growing up, made fresh and with love.”

Curbside pickup is available Wednesday through Saturday, with hours posted online. Larger orders and catering requests can be arranged through her Facebook business page.

“It’s not just soul food,” Crowe said. “You can get baked chicken, vegetables, healthier options — or go all out with meat and two sides. I’ve also got an appetizer menu and even soups and salads.”

She’s catered everything from employee luncheons and private dinners to weddings and community events. She credits much of her growth to support from the local food scene and business mentors like Ray McHenry, who helped guide her early on.

“I’ve learned a lot from people in this community,” Crowe said. “And I’m always up for a challenge. There’s no event too small — and if it’s big, I’ve got teammates I can call on.”

Crowe recently joined the Leadership Owensboro Class of 2026 and is also part of the city’s new mentorship program, working alongside community leaders to grow both personally and professionally.

“I want to be in rooms I wouldn’t otherwise be in,” she said. “I’m always looking to learn and take things to the next level.”

She hopes to one day open a brick-and-mortar kitchen to expand operations, though not necessarily a dine-in restaurant. For now, she’s focused on building her customer base and maintaining the same quality and care that defined Pinky’s.

“I’ve kind of outgrew the trailer,” she said. “I want a kitchen I can grow into — something I can build into a long-term business.”

The original Pinky’s trailer is now for sale, listed for $12,000 as-is. Crowe said she hopes someone will buy it and keep the business in the community.

“I’d love for it to stay in the neighborhood,” she said. “That’s where my heart is.”

As she reflects on her journey from frying chicken with her grandmother at age 9 to catering weddings and special events, Crowe said food has always been her passion — and the thing that brings people together.

“I’m a foodie. I’ll book a whole road trip just to eat,” she said. “And I’ll spare no expense on good food and good food experiences. That’s what I want to bring to other people.”

For Crowe, the closure of Pinky’s isn’t an end — it’s a stepping stone to something bigger.

“I’m just thankful,” she said. “I want people to keep thinking local. When you’re planning an event or craving something sweet, think about the folks in your own community first.”

Those interested in catering, desserts, or learning more can find Crowe’s Catering and Pinky’s Desserts and Treats on Facebook.

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region. 

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.

By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Business Equipment has been a trusted name in office solutions across Western Kentucky for more than 50 years, offering everything from multifunction copiers and printers to office furniture and supplies. Now based out of Henderson, the company is making a renewed push into Owensboro — a city they’ve long served and are committed to growing in.

“We’ve always been in Owensboro. We actually had a store here at one time,” said Dallas Roberts, a local representative for Business Equipment. “Since I came on about six or seven months ago, we’ve really pushed hard into Owensboro again.”

Roberts, a Philpot native, said the company is built on a reputation of reliable service and local connection.

“What separates us is that we’re local, and we handle service after the sale,” he said. “From the point of sale, we take care of everything: parts, toner, training — whatever’s needed.”

Business Equipment is an authorized dealer for Kyocera printers, copiers, and wide-format machines capable of producing banners, vinyl graphics, and other large-scale print projects. They also offer flexible purchasing and leasing options, with tailored consultations to meet each customer’s specific needs.

Beyond machines, the company also outfits workspaces with office furniture — including desks, chairs, conference tables, and even full-building layouts for commercial or educational settings.

“We recently put in a bid to furnish a whole office down in Johnson Springs,” Roberts said. “But we also do smaller jobs, like a single chair or student desk.”

Business Equipment delivers throughout the tri-state region, offering free next-day delivery for local customers. Supplies such as toner, paper, and even everyday office items like pens, scissors, and tissues are either shipped directly or hand-delivered by Roberts and the service team.

With a staff of eight, the company covers a two-hour radius from Henderson, with loyal customers across Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

“Some of our clients have been with us for more than 20 years,” Roberts said.

While the company’s physical presence in Owensboro was consolidated years ago, the team remains active in the community, and Roberts said the personal touch is part of what keeps customers coming back.

To learn more about their products and services, click here.

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region. 

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.

By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Cub Express Auto Wash is now open at the corner of the bypass and KY 54, bringing new life to an existing site and pairing a value-focused model with the same emphasis on quality and service that its owners have built their reputation on.

The new location celebrated its opening on Tuesday afternoon with a ribbon-cutting alongside the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. Located at 2915 Wimsatt Court, the site becomes the third Owensboro car wash operated by Cheetah Clean, which acquired the property after it had gone dark and invested heavily in renovating the facility.

Cheetah Clean founder Jeff Fields said the company saw the Wimsatt Court location as an opportunity to reopen a well-positioned site while expanding options for customers. The Cub Express brand, he said, is designed to complement Cheetah Clean’s higher-end locations by offering a more streamlined, value-oriented wash without sacrificing quality or customer experience.

“This location has some of the best visibility, especially with the bypass nearby,” Fields said. “We wanted to open it back up, create more opportunity for our current members, and introduce another entry point into our ecosystem.”

The Cub Express name differentiates this site from the traditional Cheetah Clean model. While Cheetah Clean locations are known for their premium prep process and high-touch service, Cub Express offers a more streamlined, value-focused wash with three price tiers — starting at $12.99 and going up to $23. All tiers include access to amenities like towels for post-wash touchups, and Fields said a self-prep area will be added in warmer months.

“We spent over half a million dollars returning the equipment and installing a modern point-of-sale system,” Fields said. “This ensures Cheetah Clean members have full access, and Cub Express users benefit from a simple, high-quality experience.”

Fields emphasized that even at this new express site, service remains a priority. While Cub Express runs with a smaller team of around three, staffing will increase in busy seasons to maintain quality. Seven total jobs were created for the location, and Fields said it also opens the door for a new market management position and a maintenance technician role — both of which offer competitive pay and benefits.

He said Cheetah Clean is known for its emphasis on employee development, offering fast-track programs, strong healthcare benefits, and advancement opportunities. Fields said the company is as much about people as it is about clean cars.

“We wash cars, but we’re really a personnel development company,” he said. “We’ve got people in this market who are approaching $100,000 a year.”

With plans to renovate their KY 54 location soon and long-term aspirations of building an interior cleaning tunnel at Cub Express, Fields said the company is committed to continued growth in Owensboro.

“We’re grateful for the support this community continues to show,” he said. “This site helps us serve more customers and provide even more value.”

By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

A new four-part professional development series aimed at helping small businesses better understand and manage technology will launch in Owensboro later this winter.

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and Fastek, has announced Plugged In: A Tech Series for Small Businesses, a lunch-and-learn program focused on practical technology topics for small and mid-sized businesses.

The series is geared toward business owners, managers, and decision-makers and will address topics such as basic technology planning, cybersecurity, productivity tools, and practical applications of artificial intelligence. Sessions are designed to be discussion-based and accessible, with an emphasis on practical information.

The sessions will be held at the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on January 27, February 24, March 17, and April 21. Lunch will be provided.

“Most small businesses know technology matters, but they don’t always know where to focus or who to trust,” said Chris Murphy, Founder and CEO at Fastek. “Plugged In is about cutting through the noise and giving business owners practical guidance they can actually use — how to protect their data, work more efficiently, and make smarter technology decisions without needing to be an IT expert.”

Each two-hour session will include instruction, interactive discussion, and course materials. Session topics will be finalized based on a pre-event survey of registrants.

“We’re excited to partner with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation to offer this training to our business community,” said Dave Kirk, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “As an added benefit, our Chamber members will get a price break on this learning opportunity.  We look forward to continuing to grow our collaboration with the EDC on future endeavors.”

Businesses that attend all four sessions will receive a complimentary cybersecurity vulnerability assessment from Fastek, valued at $950, along with a certificate of completion.

“Small business owners juggle a lot of responsibilities, and technology can feel like unfamiliar territory,” said Jody Hulsey, Director of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. “The Plugged In series offers a practical approach to IT that will help business owners protect what they’ve built, save time, and make the most of the tools that support their growth.”

Registration for the full series is $100 per person, with Chamber members receiving a $25 discount. Discounts are available for businesses registering multiple employees. Attendance is limited to 30 participants.

“Strong businesses need strong tech,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC. “Plugged In will help our local businesses understand and use technology in ways that make them more efficient, more secure, and better positioned for growth in Greater Owensboro.”

Registration information is available online here or by calling the Chamber at 270-926-1860.

By: Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times

Owensboro Nutrition recently celebrated its one-year anniversary of serving up protein-packed shakes, energizing teas, and healthy coffee alternatives from its shop on East 18th Street.

The business, owned by Akeisha Hibbard and her husband, offers what she describes as “a healthy alternative to other energy drinks,” including loaded teas made with a green tea base, protein shakes, and protein coffees. All drinks are customizable, and seasonal menus bring fresh new flavors throughout the year.

“We’ve got loaded tea, which is like a natural caffeine, and then it’s also packed with different vitamins and minerals,” Hibbard said. “Our top seller is probably the Tired Mama — it’s strawberry, watermelon, and pineapple. But we have over 100 flavors, and we can customize any drink.”

Owensboro Nutrition is located at 448 E. 18th Street, between King Laundry and Calhoun’s Barbershop in the Gabe’s shopping center. The shop is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.

They also offer free delivery to businesses within a 12-minute radius — as long as orders are placed before 10 a.m.

“We deliver every day, and there’s no charge,” Hibbard said.

Drinks are reasonably priced, with larger drinks costing $8.18, including tax.

Hibbard said opening the shop was the result of a leap of faith.

“We’ve always wanted to open a business, but we prayed about it a lot and really felt good about it — so we just went out on a whim,” she said.

The couple’s risk has paid off. Over the past year, the shop has built a strong base of regulars and formed new connections.

“It’s been very rewarding — stressful at times — but we’ve met a lot of new people and created friendships through the process,” Hibbard said. “The part I enjoy most is interacting with the customers.”

Though Hibbard is originally from Texas and her husband was born and raised in Ohio County, the couple is now firmly planted in Owensboro and thankful for the community’s support. Hibbard said she chose this line of work because she had previously worked at a similar shop and felt there was a need for healthy, tasty options in the area.

“There’s not a lot of healthy options out there for people,” she said. “And they also taste good. I don’t like to drink stuff that doesn’t taste good, too.”

For more information or to see drink options, visit Owensboro Nutrition on Facebook.

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region. 

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.

By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

The Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute (GOLI) has been awarded a grant to support a new local arts initiative aimed at fostering community connection and belonging.

The $1,200 Intercultural Microgrant comes from the Kentucky Rural-Urban Exchange (RUX), through the Kentucky Foundation for Women (KFW) funding pool. The grant will support two key projects — the Artist Mixer and the Portrait Project — both designed to bring people together through creativity.

The Artist Mixer will provide networking opportunities for Owensboro-Daviess County artists, encouraging collaboration and partnerships that benefit the community. The Portrait Project will highlight the stories and faces of 12 local residents, celebrating the area’s diverse identities and experiences through individual portraits and personal narratives.

“We believe art has the power to bring people together across lines that can sometimes divide us,” said Maria Clark, who leads the GOLI Art Team. “This initiative creates space for people to see and hear one another in new ways. When we lift our community’s stories through creativity, we strengthen our sense of belonging and can move forward together.”

The Art Team is one of four formed through GOLI’s collaboration with The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, part of a broader effort to spark community-led change. Each team is focused on addressing local concerns while helping strengthen the civic culture of Owensboro-Daviess County.

The RUX Microgrant Program awarded $23,200 in total funding this year to support collaborative projects that connect Kentuckians across geographic, cultural, and political lines. Since its founding in 2014 by Art of the Rural and Appalshop, RUX has grown into a statewide leadership network with more than 325 alumni from 65 counties.

Learn more about the program and its recipients at kyrux.org.

By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times