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Watson highlights city accomplishments in 2024

Watson highlights city accomplishments in 2024

Mayor Tom Watson used his State of the City address Thursday to highlight City Hall’s accomplishments in 2024, and said the coming year will be busy with city projects.

Watson gave his State of the City address at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Rooster Booster event. As it was last year, the bulk of Watson’s address was in the form of a video prepared by city staff and narrated by city communications and marketing manager Shaelie Velez, with comments by Watson.

The presentation was largely a look back at city initiatives completed last year, along with an update on already announced projects in progress. But the event did provide details about a new light and drone show that will be held downtown in October. The city already has plans to hold the event every other year, alternating with the Owensboro Air Show.

Much of the video presentation focused on economic development.

Watson said, “Last year, Owensboro celebrated numerous economic milestones,” including major business expansions at Swedish Match, Mizkan and R+L T Carriers, and the creation of new locally-owned businesses, like Foam Solutions.

In the video, Claude Bacon, executive director of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp., said the announcements will result in hundreds of jobs.

The last year “has been a record-breaking year for greater Owensboro,” Bacon said, and that the business expansions highlighted in the video “equal $412 million in investment, and 697 great-paying jobs.”

The city is in solid financial shape, with the city having a general fund balance of $7.6 million, Velez said. The city’s brought in increased revenue from city taxes, Velez said.

“We (the city) once again had record high revenues in net profit license fees, occupational withholding fees and interests on investments,” Velez said.

The video presentation focused on several city projects that were either completed or began taking shape in 2024, starting with the indoor sports complex being built along West Third Street. The city broke ground on the 88,000 square foot facility in August, and contractors are currently doing earthwork at the site.

The $16.5 million facility is expected to open in June of 2026.

The sportsplex will be “a central hub for sports tourism in western Kentucky,” Watson said.

Watson said the sportsplex will benefit from a third downtown parking garage, that is being built nearby along with a new downtown hotel.

One of the city’s major completed projects last year was Cravens Pool, which reopened in September after a major renovation, Velez said.

The video also focused on the work the city’s community development department has done in the Northwest Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA) last year, including building two affordable homes for first-time homebuyers and doing a intersection beautification project along First Street.

A NRSA uses federal dollars to attract public investment to repair homes and apartments. More than $10.2 million has been invested in nearly 300 projects in the Northwest NRSA.

With the Northwest NRSA ending, community development will turn to the east side of the city along portions of Fourth Street between the river and Ninth Street for a new NRSA this year.

Other highlights of the year included the city purchasing the Colonel House Motel, with the intent of turning the property into affordable housing, Velez said. The police department also graduated its first class at its new police academy, while the fire department neared completion on its new fire training center and started work on building a new Station Three on Cravens Avenue.

Projects for 2025 include more drainage improvement work in the neighborhoods surrounding York Park, Velez said, and that a new pickleball complex at Ben Hawes Park is “coming soon.”

There won’t be an Air Show again until 2026, but the city will replace the event “Illuminate,” a light and drone show that will be staged downtown October 3-5.

A press release issued after Watson’s presentation said “Illuminate” will be a free nightly festival that will combine “cutting-edge technology and immersive art installations.” In the release, city public events director Tim Ross said: “The event is unlike anything Owensboro has seen before,” and that the hope is “Illuminate will be a signature event that draws visitors and locals alike.”

The press release said the event will be held every other year, alternating with the Air Show.

Events brought over 200,000 visitors to the city last year.

After the video, Watson said, “The great thing about it is we’ve got more to come.

“Next year is even going to be better,” Watson said. “We are going to continue to work as hard as we possibly can to bring great things to Owensboro, and continue to provide the services that everyone needs.”

By James Mayse Messenger-Inquirer

Castlen touts public safety in State of the County address

Castlen touts public safety in State of the County address

Daviess Fiscal Court achieved several accomplishments in 2024 that have made Daviess County a better place to work and live now — and in the future.

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

“County government is unique in the diversity of the services that we provide,” Castlen said. “From county fire protection to road maintenance, to solid waste and parks, our administration is committed to providing good service in each of these areas, while being fiscally responsible at every turn. Each year we pass a balanced budget as required by state law. This strong financial foundation has allowed us to build a promising future for the next generation to grow, live, work and play.”

Public safety issues were a significant focus of Castlen’s address, with him pointing to the public safety facility that will be built at the intersection of U.S. Highway 231 and Foors Lane as being crucial to improving response times for emergency personnel, with the building to be home to a third county fire station and the patrol division of the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office.

“Daviess County has seen a 30% increase in runs for fire responders, the bulk of that being with medical responses,” he said. “The fire station would provide better coverage for our community with additional manpower. Six career firefighters will be added to the staff. For the sheriff’s office, this facility will eliminate having to travel the entire length of the city to answer calls. It will also free up parking near the courthouse.

“Other agencies may be housed in the facility, including the (emergency management agency), the coroner’s office and backup (911) dispatch system.”

Castlen noted Fiscal Court approved the sheriff’s office purchasing body cameras for every patrol deputy, as well as having increased the number of deputies on the road and court security at the Morton J. Holbrook Judicial Center.

“This is a huge step forward for the citizens of our county, to whom we are accountable, as well as to the deputies who are sworn to protect and serve,” said Castlen about the body cameras. “Sheriff (Brad Youngman) launched other initiatives … including a drug unit and new K-9 officer, plus digital forensics technology to helps solve crimes.”

Castlen also praised the EMT certification program in which it’s in partnership with the City of Owensboro, Henderson and Owensboro Community and Technical College.

“Hiring has become a greater challenge,” he said. “This agreement will help recruits complete their EMT certification more quickly. I want to thank God for (OCTC President) Scott Williams, for his cooperation in helping get this program going. He has been a tremendous blessing and a tremendous asset to our community.”

The county is also in the process of adding nearly 100 fire hydrants in the county, with 20 having already been installed in the Daviess County Water District service area. The county’’s fire department also received an improved Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating, which has the potential to lower homeowners’ insurance premiums.

Fiscal Court also is in the design phase of a renovation of Building 1 at the Daviess County Detention Center.

“The renovation will address numerous mechanical and structural issues in an aging facility,” Castlen said.

Castlen announced that construction is nearly complete on a new clean energy facility at the landfill. The facility will convert landfill gas into a commercial grade product of pipeline quality.

Fiscal Court also approved the transfer station once again accepting construction and demolition debris when construction of a new office building and pad is complete.

“This decision will ultimately help our contractors and staff, keeping the materials separate from the regular solid waste and more manageable for handling,” said Castlen, who noted the decision has been well received by contractors. “We were at a place where it was unsustainable for our staff, the way we were doing things at the transfer station. We really had no choice but to do what we did. But now after we’ve had a breather, we’ve come up with a solution that I think everybody in the community will be pleased with.”

Part of the push to allow contractors to use the landfill was the litter trucks hauling loads to the landfill created. Castlen reiterated his desire for a cleaner Daviess County, encouraging everyone to take a “not on my block” approach.

“It breaks my heart that we do not keep our community clean,” he said. “Please think twice before you toss a bag from McDonald’s, or leave waste in your truck bed that blows out. Make a point to throw it away. While I’m judge-executive, this issue will continue to be a huge priority for our solid waste department, and it must be a community effort. We need everyone to do their part.”

Castlen said details about an expanded Trash for Cash program, in which nonprofits clean roadways to raise funds, will be announced soon.

Castlen also noted the Daviess County Parks Department had a big year with several events. Yellow Creek Park will have updated restrooms, and one shelter at both Yellow Creek and Panther Creek parks are being redone.

“I think our parks are a hidden gem in our community,” he said.

During the current fiscal year, the county is resurfacing more than 18 miles of roads, and it has been involved in two bridge replacements, with a third underway.

Castlen also noted the amount of economic development the county saw in 2024, with Mizkan, R+L Carriers, Swedish Match and Foam Solutions combining to make $413 million in investments in the community that will add 727 new jobs.

“Fiscal Court will continue to be a partner in economic development as companies seek to relocate here and hire from our talented workforce,” Castlen said.

By Scott Hagerman Messenger-Inquirer

Steve Ford reflects on the family’s relationship with late President Jimmy Carter

Steve Ford reflects on the family’s relationship with late President Jimmy Carter

Steve Ford, son of former Kentucky Governor and U.S. Senator Wendell Ford, shared personal memories of the late President Jimmy Carter during a presentation Thursday morning at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Rooster Booster event, reflecting on the friendship between his father and the former president.

Carter was the 39th President of the United States and served from 1977 to 1981. He died on December 29 in his home at the age of 100. Senator Ford died in January 2015 at the age of 90. The two spent many years in office together. 

Known for his commitment to humanitarian work and Christian faith, Carter often wore his beliefs openly, Steve Ford noted. His presidency saw the establishment of the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency, initiatives Wendell Ford supported as a fellow Democrat during his time in the U.S. Senate.

Carter’s state funeral was held on January 9, 2025, at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. It was attended by all five living U.S. presidents, along with other dignitaries and global leaders. Following the service, Carter’s remains were transported to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private burial alongside his wife, Rosalynn Carter.

Steve Ford described his experience attending a Sunday school class taught by Carter in Plains as “almost surreal to have the President of the United States giving you a Sunday school lesson.”

“It was such a unique experience, and he taught with sincerity and humility,” Steve Ford said. “You don’t often see someone in such a position of power being so genuine and approachable.”

He also recalled his father’s professional relationship with Carter. 

“They were both Southern governors who shared farming backgrounds and were about the same age,” Steve Ford said. “While they weren’t close personal friends, they respected each other as colleagues and worked together on several key legislative efforts.”

A memorable story Steve Ford shared involved Owensboro artist Moose Morehead, a local painter known for incorporating unique elements into his work. Morehead was inspired by Carter’s peanut farming background, so he mixed peanut butter into his paint to create a barn scene and was determined to have Carter sign the painting. 

“Dad said Moose bugged the heck out of him to work out the time,” Steve Ford said, laughing. “Eventually, Dad arranged it, and Moose made it to the White House. Carter tried to sign it, but I bet he went through 20 pens trying to write on top of the peanut butter paint.”

Throughout his reflections, Steve Ford emphasized the mutual respect between his father and Carter despite occasional differences. 

“Dad always spoke highly of him,” he said.

Their connection, built on shared values and a commitment to public service, left a lasting impression on Steve Ford. He was proud to reflect on the importance of leadership grounded in integrity and compassion — qualities both his father and Carter exemplified.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Watson, Castlen highlight community’s growth and plans for 2025

Watson, Castlen highlight community’s growth and plans for 2025

Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson and Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen highlighted the city’s and county’s growth and achievements in 2024 while also outlining plans for 2025 during the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Rooster Booster on Thursday morning.

Watson emphasized the city’s economic progress, public safety investments, and community development initiatives. He cited the groundbreaking of the 88,000-square-foot indoor sports facility downtown, which will open in 2026 next to a new hotel and parking garage. The facility aims to attract athletes and visitors from across the region, further boosting tourism and the local economy.

“Owensboro continues to grow and thrive, and these investments are positioning our city for long-term success,” Watson said.

The mayor celebrated multiple infrastructure milestones, including reopening the renovated Cravens Pool, a completed irrigation project at Ben Hawes Golf Course, and the dedication of the Bill Thompson Courts at the Tennis Complex. Additionally, the Community Development Department completed over 300 projects as part of the Riverview NRSA initiative, with plans to revitalize the Monarch NRSA next.

Public safety was another key focus for Watson, who highlighted the $30 million Operation Firehouse Initiative, which includes a new fire training facility and multiple station upgrades. The Owensboro Police Department also graduated its first class from the OPD Basic Training Academy in 2024, and a second class will begin soon.

The city’s financial health also saw positive trends. The general fund balance increased by $7.6 million, largely due to federal ARPA funds, with record revenues from occupational and net profit license fees.

Meanwhile, Castlen echoed the city’s growth while emphasizing county-level developments. He noted that nearly 100 new fire hydrants have been added across Daviess County, with 20 already installed, thanks to a partnership with local water districts.

“It’s a privilege to serve this community. We’re committed to making Daviess County a better place for everyone, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together,” Castlen said. 

The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office expanded its capabilities in 2024, introducing body-worn cameras, a new drug unit, and enhanced digital forensics technology. Castlen also highlighted a voter turnout of 60% in the recent general election and the successful implementation of the KAVIS vehicle registration system.

Community improvements extended to parks and public spaces, with updated restrooms and picnic shelters at Yellow Creek and Panther Creek parks. Additionally, a groundbreaking was held for a new Habitat for Humanity neighborhood development at Carter Community Court.

Looking ahead to 2025, Watson and Castlen emphasized continued economic momentum. Both highlighted major business investments, including Mizkan’s $156 million expansion, which added 44 jobs, and Swedish Match’s $232 million investment, which created 450 jobs. 

The city also approved 993 new businesses in 2024 and is working on a new entrepreneurial hub, The Landing, which will offer co-working spaces and offices downtown.

Both leaders concluded by expressing optimism about the future.

“We’re too big to be little and too little to be big,” Watson said. “Every step we take shows that Owensboro’s best days are ahead of us.”

Castlen announced plans to expand the county’s “Trash for Cash” program and continue promoting community cleanliness initiatives. He also reaffirmed the county’s commitment to public safety, economic growth, and collaboration.

“The success we’re seeing is a result of strong collaboration across all levels of local government,” he said. “Together, we’re working to ensure our county continues to grow and thrive.”

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

IES-KY expands electrical services across Western Kentucky

IES-KY expands electrical services across Western Kentucky

IES-KY, a family-owned electrical contracting business, has been serving the region since 2003, specializing in commercial and industrial projects. The company, led by owner and estimator Kurtis Frederick, relocated to Owensboro from McLean County in 2022 when Frederick took full ownership.

IES-KY is this week’s Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Member of the Week.

The company offers electrical contracting services primarily for businesses and institutions, including healthcare facilities such as Owensboro Health. The company focuses on large-scale projects, such as remodels, expansions, and new construction, rather than residential service calls.

“We cover most of Western Kentucky,” Frederick said. “Our goal is to work with businesses needing quality electrical work, and we’ve built strong relationships with local general contractors and businesses who return for repeat services.”

Frederick began his career in 2006 and completed a union apprenticeship program before transitioning into the business side under his stepfather’s mentorship. The company remains committed to hiring and training licensed electricians through a four-year apprenticeship program, which Frederick believes sets them apart from competitors.

“Being family-owned means our reputation is personally tied to the quality of our work,” he said. “We want every project to succeed, and that personal investment drives us to deliver top-tier results.”

IES-KY primarily secures business through public job bidding and partnerships with general contractors. More information about the company’s services can be found on their website at ies-ky.com.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Local officials keeping legislative priorities on state’s radar

Local officials keeping legislative priorities on state’s radar

Lawmakers heading back to Frankfort next week will be working in a short, off-year session, which means they won’t be tackling a new state budget.

Local officials said Thursday even though there won’t be funds for new projects in this year’s session, they will be keeping local projects in legislators’ minds for future dollars.

“It’s my understanding they are very reluctant to reopen the budget in an off-year,” Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen said. Doing so, Castlen said, “creates a cascade effect,” with communities lobbying their legislators to get projects funded in the reopened budget.

Castlen said a focus will be to keep legislators aware of local projects.

“One of the things we hope to still broach the topic, and with our federal delegation, is our new public security building,” Castlen said. Fiscal Court voted to hire a design firm in November to draw up plans on a facility that would house Emergency Management, the Sheriff’s Office’s patrol division, a third county fire station, and the backup county 911 dispatch center.

“It’s a long-term process to see if they can help us with any funding,” Castlen said.

The planned new senior center on U.S. 60 West would also be a project the county would want legislators to remember for the future, Castlen said. Both the city and county have allocated funds for the new center, which will be built on land the city purchased near the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden.

“We (the county) gave them $2 million toward that, and hopefully the federal and state delegations might step up and help us with that as well,” Castlen said.

Mayor Tom Watson said while city officials haven’t discussed any specific priorities for the session, transportation projects are also an issue of particular interest.

“It’s not a handing-out year,” with a state budget to approve, Watson said. But Watson said he would like legislators to remember local road projects, such as the proposed roundabout on Fairview Drive and the proposed “Mid-States Corridor,” which would create an interstate between Owensboro and I-69 in Indiana. Castlen said he would also want to keep lawmakers apprised of work to improve Thruston-Dermont Road.

“It’s always transportation issues,” Watson said.

City Manager Nate Pagan said the city is supportive of the issues identified by the Kentucky League of Cities. The KLC website says the organization’s priorities include road funding, “protecting city revenue, and allowing all cities to collect consumption-based restaurant revenue.”

Candance Castlen Brake, president and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, said the Chamber will continue to advocate for previous priorities, including a reduction in the state’s income tax, more childcare options that would allow more people back into the workforce, and an option to create a local option sales tax for restaurants.

“We are certainly involved in a statewide group that is pushing for a constitutional amendment” for a local option sales tax, Brake said. While some Kentucky cities are allowed to implement local option sales taxes on things such as restaurant bills, Owensboro cannot.

A constitutional amendment allowing any city to implement the tax “allows more counties to have more flexibility in local taxes,” Brake said.

“We will continue to advocate for reduced state income tax,” and would work to make sure Chamber members are protected from legislation that could negatively impact them, Brake said.

“It’s about being our Chamber membership’s ‘boots on the ground,’ and advocating for local business,” while making sure bills proposed in Frankfort “are not harmful to our membership,” Brake said.

By James Mayse Messenger-Inquirer

Local video production company 923 Media expanding beyond weddings

Local video production company 923 Media expanding beyond weddings

Trevor Baldwin, founder of 923 Media, and his wife, Betsy, have been capturing life’s moments since launching their video production business in 2017. The company’s name is a nod to their wedding date — September 23, 2017, a milestone that also inspired their journey into videography.

“My wife and I regretted not having a videographer at our wedding,” Baldwin said. “I already had some video experience and a camera, so I decided to start filming weddings. Weddings are still a passion of mine, but this year, we’re working to expand into other types of work.”

The Owensboro-based company specializes in capturing and editing a variety of events, from weddings to corporate projects. The couple handles both the filming and editing processes, tailoring each video to meet their client’s specific needs and telling their stories in a visually compelling way.

The business is also making strides in creating content that resonates with online audiences. Baldwin said they’ve had multiple wedding videos go viral lately. He added that adapting to the dynamic nature of online platforms is crucial.

“We’re really trying to expand on our wedding services a little bit,” Baldwin said. “I still love weddings, but I want to explore other types of projects and grow as a filmmaker.”

Since founding 923 Media, Baldwin has prioritized creating work that aligns with his creative goals while meeting clients’ expectations. He believes that authenticity and storytelling are key to producing engaging content that leaves a lasting impact.

For more information about 923 Media, visit their Facebook page, where they share updates and examples of their work.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Houchens Insurance Group brings diversified expertise to Owensboro

Houchens Insurance Group brings diversified expertise to Owensboro

Houchens Insurance Group, a member of the Houchens Industries family, offers comprehensive insurance solutions tailored to businesses and individuals. 

The agency is this week’s Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Chamber Member of the Week.

Houchens Industries was founded in 1917 as Houchens Foods in Glasgow, Kentucky, and has grown into a diversified corporation spanning retail, manufacturing, construction, and insurance. With more than 13 operating companies generating over $4 billion in annual revenue, Houchens Industries is also one of the largest 100% employee-owned companies in the nation, boasting more than 19,000 participants in its employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).

Houchens Insurance Group joined the Houchens Industries portfolio in 1977, bringing together five organizations under one banner. Today, it generates over $100 million in revenue with more than 400 employees across 12 offices nationwide, serving clients in all 50 states. The company is recognized as a Best Practice Agency for its service excellence.

Client advisor Charlotte Newton said the decision to expand into Owensboro reflects a commitment to community roots. Chip VanMeter, president and owner of VanMeter Insurance, spearheaded the move. VanMeter was born and raised in Owensboro and established the agency in Bowling Green. Newton said his love for his hometown inspired him to launch the local office. 

The Owensboro office specializes in a wide range of insurance products, including general liability, commercial property, auto, workers’ compensation, professional and management liability, builders risk, and cyber coverage. Employee benefits such as group health, dental, vision, disability, critical illness, life insurance, and long-term care are also offered. 

While the Owensboro office focuses on business insurance and employee benefits, home and auto insurance options are available through offices in Bowling Green, Lexington, and Franklin, Tennessee.

“Our mission is to bring our clients and communities superior partnerships and insurance solutions so they can protect what matters most to them,” Newton said. 

To explore Houchens Insurance Group’s offerings, call 1-800-960-3560, visit higusa.com, or connect with them on Facebook at facebook.com/HouchensInsuranceGroup.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Boujie Biscuit brings unique flavors to Owensboro

Boujie Biscuit brings unique flavors to Owensboro

When Cynthia Jolly moved from New York City to Owensboro, she brought with her an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for food, and a desire to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Her restaurant, Boujie Biscuit, specializes in gourmet buttermilk biscuit meals, bringing something different to Owensboro’s culinary scene.

Jolly first introduced her concept to Owensboro in the fall of 2023 as a carryout-only business offering biscuit meals, French sodas, and a selection of boutique retail items. However, feedback from customers made her realize there was a demand for a dine-in experience. When a coffee shop vacated a nearby space, Jolly seized the opportunity, moving into her current location at the end of August 2024.

“I wanted to simplify my concept while still offering something new — something you couldn’t find anywhere else locally,” Jolly said. “When people came from other cities or states, they’d ask, ‘Where am I supposed to sit and eat?’ I knew I needed a space that matched the vibe I originally envisioned.”

Boujie Biscuit’s menu is centered on hearty biscuit meals inspired by flavors from around the globe. Jolly crafts large, square biscuits and tops them with a variety of ingredients, transforming them into dishes that are eaten with a fork. From savory to sweet, she said the menu reflects her artistic approach to cooking.

“I take inspiration from all different continents and use the biscuits as a canvas for those flavors,” she said. “It’s comfort food, but it’s also a way for me to introduce people to something new.”

Jolly’s journey to Owensboro was anything but ordinary. A native of New York City, she lived in Europe for several years before eventually settling in the Midwest. A singer-songwriter and artist at heart, Jolly views food as her latest form of artistic expression.

“I’ve always tried to balance my corporate life with my artist life,” Jolly said. “Food became a way for me to express myself and connect with people. I’m a foodie at my core, and I love talking to my customers about flavors— even if it’s not my food.”

While building Boujie Biscuit, Jolly said she has embraced Owensboro’s small-town feel and strong sense of community. She’s focused on building relationships with her customers and learning what the local community values.

“I love hearing the stories and backgrounds of the people who come through here,” Jolly said. “Families bring their kids, and they love our kids’ corner up front. I want this to be a family-friendly environment where people can enjoy good food and feel like they’ve stepped into another place.”

For now, Jolly is keeping her focus on the restaurant, but she’s also active on social media, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where she shares glimpses of her personality and her love for singing.

For Jolly, it’s all about creating a welcoming space where the community can gather and share in her passion for food.

“I want people to come in and feel like they’ve found something special,” she said.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Chamber Member of the Week: Event Kode expands creative offerings while making an impact

Chamber Member of the Week: Event Kode expands creative offerings while making an impact

Since its launch in 2019, Event Kode has evolved into a growing business specializing in balloon décor, inflatables, and photo booths. Owner and operator Kodi Shutt said the venture began as a way to channel her creativity and support her family but has grown into a source of joy and connection for clients across the country.

Shutt started Event Kode as a full-service event decorating company, offering table setups, chairs, and linens. However, in spring 2021, she shifted her focus to balloon décor and inflatable rentals, and by 2023, photo booth rentals became part of her growing list of services.

“I needed an outlet for my mental health – something to distract me from myself,” Shutt said. “Doing over-the-top parties was a lifesaver. It let me be creative and challenge myself.”

The business has also allowed Shutt to pursue her dream of homeschooling her children.

“Thankfully, we’re almost five years into our homeschooling journey now, all thanks to The Event Kode,” she said. “I get to breathe in my children all day, every day, in between doing balloon installs. There’s nothing else I’d rather do.”

Event Kode has become known for its expertise in balloon décor. Its client base includes corporate events, weddings, anniversaries, and birthday celebrations. The company offers an array of balloon designs, including garlands, arches, columns, walls, and centerpieces, as well as inflatables and photo booth rentals.

Corporate clients remain a cornerstone of the business. Notable projects include Shutt’s participation in balloon installations for high-profile events, such as the Philadelphia Eagles Autism Challenge in May. Shutt joined 11 other artists from across the U.S. and Canada to create balloon designs for the event.

“That was one of my proudest moments since starting balloons,” she said. “It was special for me because both of my boys have autism. Being able to use my talents for something that raised money for a cause so close to my heart was a pinch-me moment.”

Shutt has also worked on large-scale events, such as the American Heart Association Tampa Bay Heart Walk at Raymond James Stadium and a balloon installation for country music star Dierks Bentley at the Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville.

“Each project has taught me so much, and I’m excited to improve and grow,” she said.

With the holiday season in full swing, Shutt said corporate Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties are a top priority. The company is nearly fully booked for December and is already accepting reservations for 2025.

“If you’d like a balloon install for 2025, contact us soon to get on our books,” Shutt said. “Our Facebook followers know how quickly we book up.”

Through her growing list of services and memorable experiences, Shutt continues to make Event Kode a business that brings creativity and joy to her clients – and her own family.

For more information about Event Kode or to schedule a consultation, visit their Facebook page.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times