FA5 returns May 16 for 29th season

Panelists share triumphs, challenges of life with disabilities during Rooster Booster breakfast

The power of perseverance, empathy, and inclusion took center stage at Thursday’s Rooster Booster breakfast, where a panel of self-advocates, caregivers, and professionals shared personal stories that challenged Owensboro to build a more inclusive community for people with disabilities.

The panel, moderated by the Chamber’s Director of Membership Kitty Jones and sponsored by Wendell Foster, provided a platform for individuals with disabilities and their families to share their experiences and educate the community on inclusion and support.

Panelists included Roger Humphrey, MD, a parent of a child with a disability; Eli Bennett, a sibling and caregiver of an individual with special needs; Charity Pinkston, PT, DP, ATP, Director of Physical and Occupational Therapy at Wendell Foster; and Megan Hickman, an Owensboro native who shared her personal journey.

Hickman, now a nurse assistant at Wendell Foster, spoke about overcoming challenges to graduate high school and continue her education. She earned laughs from the crowd when she noted it took her five years to finish high school, but she got it done.

“I was excited to participate in the panel to be an example for other people with disabilities that they can accomplish their goals,” Hickman said. “I would tell someone with a disability that your disability shouldn’t be an excuse; instead, use it as an ability to better your life.”

Bennett shared his perspective as the sibling and legal guardian of his brother Jacob, who has special needs. He said taking on that responsibility at age 23 was a learning curve, but he has found unwavering support through the community.

“I’m very thankful,” Bennett said. “It’s hard to give yourself credit sometimes, but just thinking back, I am incredibly proud of the growth not only I’ve had, but that has extended to Jacob. When you help somebody with special needs, you’re not just impacting them — it’s pervasive. You’re impacting their entire world.”

Humphrey, who spoke from the perspective of a parent, said he was moved by the audience’s attentiveness and engagement.

“I was surprised at the emotion that welled up in speaking to such a large group who seemed to really listen and care about our messages,” Humphrey said. “Most impressive was Megan’s story and the fact she could deliver it so powerfully in the face of it and all the rest of us.”

Pinkston, representing service providers in the discussion, emphasized the importance of trust and advocacy.

“I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the privilege of earning the trust of so many families throughout the years,” Pinkston said. “This opportunity allowed me to share insights and contribute to the ongoing conversation around support and inclusion. It was an honor to represent service providers at today’s panel.”

Jones said the panel was an enlightening experience, and she hopes it left a lasting impact on those in attendance.

“This discussion gave people the opportunity to hear firsthand the triumphs and challenges that individuals with disabilities and their families experience every day,” Jones said. “My hope is that everyone left with a greater sense of empathy and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive Owensboro.”

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times 

Local officials credit McConnell’s leadership as pivotal for city, county

Rooster Booster sponsored by Wendell Foster to feature disability awareness panel

Thursday’s Rooster Booster breakfast will feature a disability awareness panel discussion aimed at educating the community on the perspectives of people with disabilities and their families.

The program begins at 7:30 a.m. at the Owensboro Convention Center (501 West Second Street) and is sponsored by Wendell Foster. Register to attend here or call the Chamber office at 270-926-1860. 

The panel will feature Roger Humphrey, MD, a parent of a child with a disability; Eli Bennett, a sibling of a person with a disability; Charity Pinkston, PT, DP, ATP, Director of Physical and Occupational Therapy at Wendell Foster; and Megan Hickman, an Owensboro native who will share her experience as an individual with a disability.

Kara Howard, Vice President of Development and Community Engagement at Wendell Foster, said the organization wanted to highlight the unique challenges faced by families who have a loved one with a disability. 

“Our hope is that Rooster Booster attendees will walk away feeling more aware of these perspectives and make a concerted effort to support and advocate for people with disabilities in our community,” Howard said. “The insights from each panelist will be invaluable in learning more about this important topic, just in time for National Developmental Disability Awareness Month.”

Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Candance Castlen Brake said the program will put a spotlight on Disability Awareness in a unique way.

“This gives us all a firsthand opportunity to more fully understand the daily journey taken by so many of our friends and neighbors,” Brake said. “We are so excited to learn from our fellow community members about the impact of Wendell Foster across our community. This Rooster Booster is always a special one. We hope our attendees leave feeling so good about our community and the people who keep putting others above themselves each day.”

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Kentucky Sound Stage brings Hollywood to Owensboro

A new chapter in Owensboro’s economic and cultural landscape began Friday as officials unveiled Kentucky Sound Stage. The state-of-the-art film production complex, located in the former Malco theater, promises to put Western Kentucky on the entertainment industry map.

Gov. Andy Beshear, local leaders, and project founders Jeremy Winton and Kristi Kilday joined community members in celebrating the transformation of the former movie theater into a full-service production facility.

Healthy Brain & Body brings holistic wellness approach to Owensboro

Healthy Brain & Body – A Holistic Co. is bringing a unique, wellness-focused approach to the region, aiming to help clients restore their health and live optimally. Founded in 2024, the business was born from personal health struggles and a desire to share holistic healing practices that had been previously unavailable in the area.

Sydni Garrett, co-founder of Healthy Brain & Body, said her own experience with postpartum depletion after a difficult pregnancy inspired her to explore natural ways to restore her health. That journey led her to become a Functional Diagnostic Health Practitioner, allowing her to share what she learned with others.

“We knew there had to be a better way of supporting the body,” Garrett said. “The knowledge was out there, but it just wasn’t being shared in our region.”

Healthy Brain & Body currently offers two main services: Micro Current Neurofeedback (MCN) and Nutrient Balancing.

MCN is designed to help the nervous system regulate itself, which Garrett describes as a key factor in reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. The treatment can also aid individuals dealing with conditions such as ADD/ADHD, autism, and extreme emotional fluctuations.

“The nervous system can get stuck in ‘fight, flight, or freeze’ mode, and MCN helps people become ‘unstuck’ by creating new neural pathways,” Garrett said. “It improves sleep, focus, creativity, memory, emotional regulation, and reduces stress.”

In late March or early April, Healthy Brain & Body will introduce Nutrient Balancing, which utilizes a state-of-the-art vitamin and mineral scan to measure nutrient levels in real time. The scan detects deficiencies and identifies excess heavy metals in the body that can contribute to issues such as brain fog and digestive problems.

“We can analyze over 44 elements, including 21 minerals, 16 heavy metals, and key vitamins,” Garrett said. “This is an affordable way to uncover hidden imbalances and work toward whole-body healing.”

The business has been growing steadily, Garrett said, as satisfied clients spread the word about their success stories.

“Our goal is to see every person in our region restored and living optimally,” she said. “We’re also looking forward to adding more holistic services and partnering with like-minded businesses to create a collective resource for the community.”

As an Owensboro firefighter, Garrett’s husband is also dedicated to giving back. The business is offering free MCN services to first responders dealing with PTSD or other trauma-related symptoms.

“Most people don’t realize how deeply traumatic events affect first responders,” he said. “Firefighters are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, and one in five Fire/EMS personnel experience PTSD. We want to be a beacon of hope for them.”

While Healthy Brain & Body is new to the industry, the founders are committed to providing alternative solutions for those who feel they have exhausted traditional medical options.

“Many of our clients have lost hope,” Garrett said. “They’ve spent time and money trying different treatments with little success. We don’t just want to treat symptoms—we want to address the root cause and help people truly heal.”

For more information, visit www.HealthyBrain-Body.com or follow Healthy Brain & Body – A Holistic Co. on Facebook for health tips, promotions, and workshop dates.

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

Men’s Mass Community Choir honoring late ‘Chick’ Owen with 20th anniversary performances

When the Men’s Mass Community Choir takes the stage for its 20th annual concert, it won’t just be about music — it will be about honoring a legacy. For two decades, the choir has filled Owensboro churches with powerful harmonies and uplifting gospel music, but this year’s performance carries a deeper meaning. The group will pay tribute to longtime choir president Larry “Chick” Owen, who passed away during preparations for the event.

“Chick was very excited about this year’s production, wanting it to reflect the best of the choir’s past performances,” said choir president Michael Johnson.

The choir, composed of 30 men from more than a dozen area churches, will perform its milestone concert on March 30 at Zion Baptist Church (2311 West 9th Street), followed by an encore performance on April 13 at First Christian Church (700 J.R. Miller Boulevard). Both concerts begin at 3 p.m.

Under the direction of local and state church music leader Titus Chapman, this year’s program will blend old favorites with fresh interpretations.

“We sound really good in our practices so far,” Chapman said. “We have some fantastic soloists, and we’ll be bringing back some of the favorite songs from our performances over the years.  A few of the songs will have new twists, but they’ll be recognizable to those who have faithfully followed us over the years.” 

Although this is Chapman’s first year directing the choir, he’s no stranger to the group.

 “I know this group, and I performed with them just a few years ago,” he said. “It’s my honor and pleasure to lead their performance this year.”

Adding to the excitement, well-known local gospel singer Alma Randolph Crump will perform two gospel classics alongside the choir. Crump, founder of the Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation, said the invitation to participate came directly from Owen before his passing.

“I’ve tried to attend the concert annually, and always enjoy the event. At the conclusion of last year’s concert, Chick approached me about being featured soloist for this year’s event, and I immediately accepted the invitation,” Crump said. “However, this celebration will be bittersweet for everyone. I am honored to fulfill my commitment to Chick and to sing with this awesome group of men. Of course, Titus Chapman will do a great job directing the choir.”

Accompanied by musicians Alison McFarland (owner of McFarland Funeral Home) and The Rev. DeMarcus Curry (Asbury Methodist Church) on keyboard, Owensboro Police Chief Art Ealum on bass, and drummer Jehvion Thames, the choir promises a powerful and inspiring experience. 

“Our sound is big as we sing a list of gospel classics in the well-known style of the Men’s Mass Community Choir,” Johnson said. “People will be inspired and go away really feeling the gospel spirit that the choir and Chick Owen brought to the Owensboro community.”

The Men’s Mass Community Choir was originally formed in 2005 under the leadership of Owen at Sweeney Street Baptist Church in Owensboro in celebration of Black History Month. 

“We are now a diverse brotherhood of men from across our community, who gather regularly to not only sing praises to God, but to also enjoy fellowship, food and participate in local service projects,” Johnson said. 

The group has performed at numerous regional events over the years and will make a special appearance at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Rooster Booster Breakfast on March 6 ahead of its two major concerts.

By Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times

Kamuf posthumously honored with Humanitarian Award for contributions to community

The late Charlie Kamuf, a beloved figure known for his dedication to both agriculture and the broader community, was posthumously honored with the Humanitarian Award at the 45th Annual Farm City Breakfast on Saturday. 

The annual award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves through leadership, family values, civic service, and strong business management.

Kamuf was a longtime attorney with a deep-rooted passion for farming and was remembered for his generosity, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the people of Owensboro and Daviess County.

“Charlie was a lawyer, but not really — he was a farmer at heart,” said Rod Keugel, who presented the award. “He had dirt in his veins, and he loved everything about farming — well, almost everything. He once told me when he was young and working in tobacco, hanging it up in the barn, he decided that part of farming wasn’t quite for him. But every farm Charlie touched improved, just like every person he met.”

Keugel recounted a story that captured Kamuf’s selfless nature. After a woman and her child accidentally hit his parked car, rather than calling the police or seeking an insurance claim, Kamuf instead gave the family a ride home and had the vehicle repaired without seeking reimbursement.

“While most of us would have worried about the damage done to our car, Charlie worried about the damage done to that young family,” Keugel said. “He cared about people. He made a real difference in every life he touched.”

Daviess County Farm Bureau President Wally Taylor echoed those sentiments, noting that Kamuf had an enduring impact on the agricultural community.

“Farming was in his blood,” Taylor said. “He was always interested in what was happening on the farm and in agriculture. He didn’t go around bragging about what he did — he just took care of things in his own way.”

Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Candance Brake said Kamuf embodied the essence of the Farm City Breakfast, which celebrates the connection between urban and rural life.

“Charlie personified farm and city,” Brake said. “He loved both, but more importantly, he loved people. He was always encouraging, always making a difference, and there wasn’t a person in that room who didn’t have a story about how he had helped them in some way.”

Kamuf’s family accepted the award on his behalf, expressing their gratitude for the recognition of his lifelong commitment to the community.

“This award is an honor for our family,” they said in a statement to Owensboro Times. “Our father never sought recognition — he just genuinely loved helping people. He believed in investing in this community, whether through his work, friendships, or simply by listening and lending a hand. Owensboro and Daviess County were home, and he spent his life fostering relationships that made this place better.”

The family continued, “He was fascinated by the land, by the economics of agriculture, and by the people who made their living from it. He could spend hours talking with farmers, learning from them, and figuring out how he could help them succeed. He had such deep respect for the hard work, risks, and rewards that come with farming. He didn’t just see farmland — he saw opportunity, history, and a way of life worth preserving.”

Kamuf’s legacy will live on through his family, who have donated several dozen of his ties to the Chamber of Young Professionals’ Guys & Ties program.

“He truly loved Owensboro and Daviess County. This was home, and he believed in investing in its people and its future,” the family said. “Whether it was through his work, his friendships, or just driving around talking to folks, he was always engaged with the community. He believed that strong communities were built on relationships, and he spent his life fostering those connections.”

As Keugel noted in closing, Kamuf lived by a simple philosophy: “You only live once in life, but if you live it right, once is enough.”

By John Kirkpartick The Owensboro Times

Community, agriculture celebrated at 45th Annual Farm City Breakfast

The 45th Annual Farm City Breakfast on Saturday brought together local leaders, farmers, and advocates to celebrate agriculture’s vital role in the community. The event featured guest speaker Jonathan Shell, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture.

The event is presented by the Daviess County Farm Bureau and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. Daviess County Farm Bureau President Wally Taylor reinforced the organization’s commitment to legislative advocacy and youth programs.

“Daviess County Farm Bureau has always been active in supporting agriculture at the county, state, and national levels,” Taylor said. “We support 4-H, FFA, and various agricultural initiatives, awarding six scholarships each year totaling $10,000 to local high school students.”

The event featured remarks from community leaders, including Chamber President and CEO Candance Brake, who reflected on the history and significance of the Farm City Breakfast.

“Forty-five years ago, county and community leaders came together to recognize the importance of working together,” Brake said. “Regardless of where we live or what we do, it takes every single one of us to keep our community moving forward.”

Emcee Jeff Nalley, a broadcaster and journalist for Cromwell Media and contributor to Agri-Pulse, emphasized the enduring strength of the relationship between urban and rural communities.

“We come together recognizing the strength of our community, and we also come together recognizing the strength of our rural and urban relationship – city cousins, rural neighbors, stewards of the soil,” Nalley said. “We certainly are blessed in this community.”

Daniel Hayden, chair of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, introduced Shell, highlighting his dedication to advancing the industry.

“You will not find someone more passionate about Kentucky agriculture than Jonathan Shell,” Hayden said. “He’s been fighting for us since day one, bringing national leaders to Kentucky and making sure our voices are heard.”

Shell addressed the audience, underscoring the importance of supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“Every single day, I get to work on your behalf, and that means something special to me,” Shell said. “If you ever feel discouraged about the future, go visit a local FFA chapter. These young people are doing incredible work.”

He also discussed pressing issues facing agriculture, including farmland preservation. According to Shell, Kentucky has lost 1.4 million acres of farmland in the past 20 years, averaging nearly 192 acres per day.

“We have to look at ways to protect farmland for future generations,” Shell said. “We need to engage local governments and economic developers in conversations about best land use practices.”

Shell encouraged support for Kentucky’s agriculture education programs, including FFA, emphasizing the impact of the Ag Tag donation program.

“We raised $930,000 last year for Ag Tag donations, and our goal is to hit $1 million this year,” Shell said. “Half of those funds go directly back to local communities, supporting students and ensuring agriculture has a strong future.”

As the region grows and evolves, Brake said events like the Farm City Breakfast reaffirm the shared commitment to fostering strong agricultural traditions and economic development for future generations.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Swank Style & Boutique offers unique shopping and salon experience

Swank Style & Boutique continues to thrive as a full-service salon and boutique. Owner Angie Morrison, who purchased the business in December 2020, has worked to expand its offerings while maintaining the salon’s strong reputation.