A Muhlenberg County-based IT company is working to bring a more personal, hands-on approach to technology support for small businesses across western Kentucky, including the Owensboro area.

ServStak was launched about three years ago by Derek Dukes, who said the company focuses on managed IT services, cybersecurity, network management, and day-to-day technology support for businesses without an in-house IT department.

Dukes, who grew up in Muhlenberg County and graduated from Muhlenberg North High School in 2007, said his background includes years of working in automation and IT.

“I was working as an automation or controls engineer at Daicel in Beaver Dam when they started moving everything to Arizona, and we shut the factory down,” Dukes said. “So, I decided to go out on my own and get into IT work.”

Dukes said ServStak primarily serves smaller operations, including law offices, insurance agencies, and other professional businesses.

“We’re still pretty small, honestly,” Dukes said. “I’m still just trying to find my feet.”

Dukes said ServStak offers managed IT services, cybersecurity support, cloud solutions, network management, employee onboarding and offboarding assistance, and troubleshooting for businesses needing ongoing technical support.

He added that one of the company’s primary focuses is offering direct, local customer service rather than routing clients through large help desks or call centers.

“I’m trying to bring back hands-on and in-person IT service,” Dukes said. “I get tired of calling people and having to sit there and go through all these help desks and five different people to get a problem solved.”

Instead, Dukes said he wants customers to have a single point of contact when issues arise.

“I just want my customers to be able to call one person and get it accomplished without having to wait for phone calls back and all the bouncing back and forth,” he said.

ServStak’s services can vary depending on the type of business and the sensitivity of the information they handle.

“It’s different for a tire shop than it is for an attorney or a dentist,” Dukes said. “Someone who’s securing sensitive data is definitely more vulnerable to an attack.”

He said the company can assist businesses with everything from fixing individual technical issues to managing an entire IT network, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities and employee onboarding or offboarding.

Dukes said he is currently working to expand more into the Owensboro market, noting that Muhlenberg County offers a smaller pool of potential business clients.

“I’m trying to tap the Owensboro entrepreneur market,” he said. “Muhlenberg County is a pretty small market for businesses.”

Though the company remains small, Dukes said the personalized approach is what separates ServStak from larger providers.

“If you’re tired of going through phone help desks and you want someone to come in and work with you to solve a problem, that’s what we do,” Dukes said.

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

For more than five decades, Lawton Insurance has maintained a presence in Owensboro, evolving through several transitions while continuing to emphasize personalized service and local relationships.

According to Lori Byers, an agent with the company’s Owensboro office, the agency first opened locally in 1969 as Horn Insurance before later becoming Horn and France Insurance in the 1980s. The Owensboro office joined the Lawton group of agencies in 2016.

The Lawton name itself traces back more than 125 years in Kentucky insurance history. The company’s website notes that founder Clyde Allison Lawton Sr. established the independent agency in Central City in 1899, with the business continuing through multiple generations before transitioning to current ownership.

Today, the Lawton group includes offices in Owensboro, Central City, Bowling Green, Greenville, and Hartford.

“We’re honored to be a part of this community and part of the business community in Owensboro,” Byers said. “We pride ourselves on supporting the community.”

Byers said the agency regularly supports local schools and athletics programs, while also participating in charitable initiatives throughout the region. One recent effort involved providing devotional books to local students entering military service after graduation.

The Owensboro office, located at 200 E. Third St., Suite 101, shares a building with the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

As an independent insurance agency, Lawton Insurance offers a wide range of personal and commercial products, including auto, home, life, health, business, and group health insurance coverage.

“We represent just about every personal and commercial carrier that an independent agency can have, so we have a wide variety of options,” Byers said. “We have the ability to shop for you, so you don’t have to do that yourself.”

The company’s website highlights offerings ranging from personal property and vehicle insurance to commercial liability, employee benefits, and life insurance products.

Byers said Lawton works with businesses of all sizes, including municipalities and large commercial accounts, while still trying to maintain what she described as a “hometown insurance agency feel.”

“So many independent agencies are being bought by larger insurance carriers,” she said. “We are still pretty much locally owned, and we still try to provide that hometown service to hometown people.”

That local service became especially important following severe weather events across the region, including the major hailstorm that impacted Owensboro last year.

“We personally handled those claims and turned them in, and tried to help walk people through that claims process ourselves,” Byers said. “We didn’t just give them a 1-800 number to a claims department.”

Byers said the increase in severe weather events has made many customers more aware of the importance of proper insurance coverage and responsive service.

“The good thing is that’s why we do have insurance,” she said. “If we do have those events, we’re here.”

Customers interested in obtaining a quote can either call the Owensboro office directly or visit Lawton Insurance’s website to submit information through the company’s online quote tool.

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

Friday After 5 kicks off tonight, and organizers say this 30th anniversary season is the largest and most diverse one to date.

The free weekly event runs May 15 through Aug. 7 and will once again transform the downtown riverfront into a hub for live music, food, and community gathering — a role it has steadily expanded since its early days as a smaller local attraction.

“This is without a doubt the biggest and most exciting season we’ve ever put together,” said Heath Eric, CEO of The Eric Group and talent buyer for the series. “When you look at the diversity of the lineup, the number of high-impact nights, and the overall experience we’re creating across two stages, it’s truly a celebration of everything Friday After 5 has become over the last 30 years.”

That growth is reflected in both the scale and scope of the 2026 lineup.

Eric said this year’s schedule intentionally blends genres and audiences, featuring everything from classic rock and Southern rock to country, R&B, pop, and high-energy dance bands. The goal, Eric said, is to ensure that each week offers something different while still maintaining the familiar feel that has kept crowds returning for three decades.

“It’s important for us to program something for everyone,” Eric said. “You’ll see national touring acts, regional favorites, tribute experiences, and emerging artists all sharing the same stage. That’s what makes Friday After 5 special — every Friday night feels different.”

The 13-week season includes several marquee nights, including a July 3 event featuring a drone show and a July 10 concert designated as the official 30th anniversary celebration.

A defining feature of the series remains its two-stage format, which allows for continuous music throughout the evening. Performances begin on the Overlook Stage before shifting to the Main Stage for headlining acts, creating a steady flow of entertainment from early evening through the night.

“We’re not just putting on a concert — we’re creating an experience,” Eric said. “Two stages allow us to showcase more talent, keep the energy up all night, and give fans even more reasons to come early and stay late.”

While nationally touring acts and tribute bands often draw the largest crowds, Eric emphasized that local and regional performers remain a key part of the lineup. More than 20 artists from the region are scheduled to perform this season, providing a platform for local talent alongside higher-profile acts.

“We’re incredibly proud of the local talent we have in this region,” Eric said. “This platform allows us to showcase those artists alongside bigger touring acts, and that’s something we’re very intentional about.”

Eric said attendance is expected to reach up to 15,000 people per night, with even larger crowds anticipated for major event evenings. That turnout continues to position Friday After 5 as not only a weekly entertainment option, but also a significant driver of tourism and economic activity in Owensboro.

“Our goal has always been to create something that serves the community while also bringing people into Owensboro,” Eric said. “This lineup reflects that balance — we’re showcasing our city while delivering a high-level entertainment experience that attracts visitors from across the region.”

The 30th anniversary is also a moment to reflect on the people behind the event.

“For 30 years, Friday After 5 has been driven by an incredible group of volunteers, board members, sponsors, and community partners,” said Brad Howton, chair of Friday After 5. “This 30th anniversary season is a celebration of that legacy and everything this event has come to represent for Owensboro.”

What began as a local summer gathering has evolved into one of the region’s largest free concert series, drawing thousands to the riverfront each week and becoming a defining part of Owensboro’s identity.

As the milestone season approaches, organizers said the focus is on delivering a summer that reflects both the event’s history and its continued growth.

“There’s a lot of excitement around this season,” Howton said. “We’ve worked hard to make it special, and we can’t wait to see the community come together to celebrate 30 years of Friday After 5.”

Friday After 5 takes place each Friday from 5-10 p.m. on the downtown riverfront. Admission is free.  

Friday After 5 lineup

May 15 – City of Owensboro Night
Main stage: Juice Box Heroes (rock/pop/dance hits)
Overlook stage: The Green Lights (rock/pop)

May 22
Main stage: Jimmy Church Band (Motown/pop/R&B/dance)
Overlook stage: The Bobby Clark Band (classic rock/variety)

May 29
Main stage: Sterling Elza + KG & The Bad Habits (red dirt country/rock)
Overlook stage: Jay McElwain Band (rock/blues)

June 5
Main stage: Resurrection – A Journey Tribute + Reckless: America’s Bryan Adams Experience (classic rock/arena rock)
 Overlook stage: Flat Stanley (alternative/rock)

June 12
Main stage: Hayden Coffman + L’il Man J + Musick Studios All Stars (country/country rap/pop)
Overlook stage: Roulette (rock/variety)

June 19
Main stage: Nigel Dupree & The Heat + Galactic Foghorn (southern rock/rock)
Overlook stage: Retro Shock (80s/rock)

June 26
Main stage: 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience + Hayley Payne (classic rock/Eagles tribute)
Overlook stage: The Sorrels (Americana/country)

July 3 – Drone show night
Main stage: Whiskey Row + Cynthia & The End Times (modern country/rock)
Overlook stage: Last Call (country/rock)

July 10 – 30th anniversary celebration
Main stage: Lakeview + Dan Hall & Blackford Creek (country/rock/modern country)
Overlook stage: Uncharted Band (rock/variety)

July 17
Main stage: Vinyl Radio + Lindsey James Williams (classic rock/70s hits)
Overlook stage: The Blue Bridge Boys (bluegrass/Americana)

July 24
Main stage: Unlimited Show Band + DJ George Rose (R&B/funk/soul/dance)
Overlook stage: Hall Pass (rock/pop)

July 31
Main stage: DJ Shay’s Dance Party + Cam Thompson (DJ/country/alt-country)
Overlook stage: The Rubbing Alcoholics (rock/party)

August 7 – Back to school bash
Main stage: TBA
Overlook stage: Soul N The Pocket (funk/soul/R&B)

By Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times

Harding, Shymanski & Company has spent the last five decades building a reputation around relationships, collaboration, and long-term advisory services — and now the regional accounting and advisory firm is working to deepen its presence in Owensboro.

Founded in 1975 by Al Harding and Dick Shymanski, the firm began with a philosophy that differed from many traditional CPA firms at the time, according to Matt Folz, Evansville Region President.

“At that time, many CPA firms operated under a model where one CPA primarily served each client on their own,” Folz said. “Al and Dick saw an opportunity to do things differently.”

Rather than assigning clients to a single accountant, Harding, Shymanski & Company built a team-based approach centered on matching clients with professionals best suited for their specific needs and challenges.

“We view clients as clients of the firm, not just clients of one person,” Folz said. “That allows us to bring the right resources, experience, and perspective to each situation.”

The firm celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025 and has grown to approximately 200 employees with offices in Evansville, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky.

While Harding, Shymanski & Company has maintained client relationships in Owensboro for years, Folz said the firm made a more intentional push into the market over the last year as leaders observed the city’s continued growth and momentum.

“As a firm, we are always looking for thoughtful ways to grow and serve businesses in strong, vibrant communities,” Folz said. “We continued to see the exciting growth and momentum taking place in Owensboro, and it became clear to us that this was a community where we wanted to be more engaged.”

That interest grew organically as firm leaders and employees increasingly visited Owensboro for community events and entertainment opportunities.

“Many of us had already been coming to Owensboro personally for events like Friday After 5, arts festivals, shows, dinners, and other community activities,” Folz said. “We were impressed by the energy and progress we saw.”

The firm began attending Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Rooster Booster events before officially joining the chamber in fall 2025.

Folz said the firm believes it fills an important niche between smaller compliance-focused accounting firms and larger national firms that may not always align with privately owned businesses.

“With around 200 employees, we have the depth and resources to provide a broad range of services while still being relationship-driven and accessible,” Folz said. “Our goal is to be a true business advisor to our clients, not just a compliance provider.”

The company’s services include tax planning and compliance, wealth advisory and planning, accounting and auditing, payroll and client accounting services, succession planning, advisory services, and medical billing.

Across those service lines, Folz said the emphasis remains on helping clients make informed decisions and prepare for long-term success.

“Our focus is on helping clients make better decisions, plan for the future, and address the challenges and opportunities they face in their businesses,” he said.

As the firm expands its footprint in Owensboro, Folz said leaders want their presence to extend beyond business transactions.

“Being part of the Owensboro community means more to us than simply doing business there,” Folz said. “We want to build relationships, be present, and find meaningful ways to contribute.”

He said the firm values community involvement and sees investment in local communities as an important part of its culture.

“We believe strong communities are built when businesses and individuals are willing to invest time, energy, and resources back into the places where they work and live,” Folz said.

Folz also emphasized the company’s commitment to remaining independently owned — something he said is becoming increasingly rare within the accounting profession.

“Independence gives us the ability to remain nimble and make decisions that are best for our clients, our people, our firm, and the communities we serve,” Folz said.

Looking ahead, Folz said the firm intends to continue growing while remaining grounded in the relationship-focused philosophy established by its founders more than 50 years ago.

“We are proud of our history, but we are also very focused on the future,” Folz said. “Our goal is to continue building a firm that provides high-quality advisory and compliance services while staying true to the relationship-focused approach that has guided us since 1975.”

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

Would you be willing to risk it all for your dream? That’s the question most if not all small business owners have to ask themselves on a daily basis.

May is National Small Business Month.

How would you define a small business? An organization of less than 10 employees? 50 employees?

The Small Business Association Office of Advocacy defines a small business as a company that has less than 500 employees. That means that nearly all of our Chamber members are small businesses.

Nearly 68% of new small businesses survive about two years. Nearly 50% make it to five years. Just over 25% make it over 15 years.

It’s hard. It’s sacrifice. It’s not a 40-hour work week.

Small businesses are what you remember about a city. They allow interactions you don’t forget.

While online shopping is convenient, it doesn’t greet you with a smile or ask how your kids are doing.

I think one of best things we can do for our small businesses is ask our big businesses to use them for their services.

I love getting to hear stories about our larger corporations buying Christmas gifts for their employees from our local shops. Or taking their out-of-town clients to their favorite local restaurant. We see that often at the Chamber.

Small businesses often play a large role in getting big businesses to locate in your community.

Let’s do our part.

Try something new.

Meet a friend and support their dream.

By Dave Kirk For the Messenger-Inquirer
 

Friday After 5 will mark its 30th anniversary this summer with what organizers are calling its biggest and most diverse season yet, continuing a long-standing tradition of free, family-friendly entertainment along the downtown riverfront.

The 2026 season, presented by Jagoe Homes, runs from May 15 through August 7 and will once again feature weekly concerts, a street fair, and a mix of national touring acts, regional performers, tribute bands, and emerging artists across two stages.

Organizers say the milestone season reflects both the event’s growth and its enduring role as a community gathering place.

“This is without a doubt the biggest and most exciting season we’ve ever put together,” said Heath Eric, CEO of The Eric Group and talent buyer for Friday After 5. “The level of talent, the diversity of the lineup, and the number of special moments planned for this 30th anniversary are unmatched.”

Board chair Brad Howton said the longevity of Friday After 5 can largely be attributed to its accessibility and community-driven atmosphere.

“My opinion is, what makes what’s made it so successful and long-lasting is the fact that it is free entertainment,” Howton said. “It’s an opportunity for friends, for families, to get out on a Friday night during the summer, go downtown to Owensboro and just enjoy the weather, enjoy the entertainment, and just mingle.”

Originally launched in 1997 as a small series of concerts aimed at drawing people back downtown, the event has grown into a regional attraction that draws thousands each week. In 2025, organizers reported more than 120,000 attendees over the course of the season.

Howton said the event has evolved beyond music into a broader experience.

“I think what’s different now is we’ve tried to focus more on the family side of things, providing things for all ages to do,” he said. “The Street Fair has become a huge part of it. Now it’s not only a place for people to come hang out — they’ve got craft vendors, food vendors, beverage vendors. It’s grown into that come down on Friday night and stay for a long time and just enjoy it.”

The Kroger Street Fair opens at 5 p.m. each week and includes food trucks, local vendors, and activities, while live music begins on the Overlook Stage from 6-8 p.m., followed by Main Stage performances from 7-10 p.m.

The event has also expanded geographically over the years, stretching along the riverfront beyond its original footprint near the RiverPark Center.

“It’s grown to the point now where the attendance for the main stage would not fit in that back patio of the RiverPark Center,” Howton said. “It’s just a good thing. It really is.”

Organizers say the event continues to have an economic and tourism impact, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.

“I like to walk up and down Smothers Park before things get started and talk to people,” Howton said. “It was Michigan, Illinois, Alabama, Georgia — people saying that’s how they came to town was because of Friday After 5.”

This year’s lineup includes a wide range of genres, from Southern rock and country to pop, R&B, and dance music. Highlighted nights include the July 3 drone show and America 250 celebration, the July 10 30th anniversary celebration, and the August 7 back-to-school bash season finale.

Howton said the event’s continued success depends heavily on community support.

“What I really like to express is that without the sponsorship that we do get and the support that we get — city, county, sponsors — it would not be possible in any way to have the events and the bands that we have downtown,” he said.

Principal sponsors for the 2026 season include Jagoe Homes as the title sponsor, along with Romain Subaru and Romain Cadillac, Owensboro Racing & Gaming, Atmos Energy, and Kroger, among others.

Howton also credited both longtime and newer board members for helping sustain the event.

“It’s the energy, it’s the passion of those new board members, too,” he said. “It’s a lot of work, but we’re down there each and every Friday night. I think that gives people a sense of ownership, and that we care about it and enjoy it as well.”

Admission to all Friday After 5 events remains free. Organizers say additional announcements, including the final night’s headliner, will be released in the coming weeks.

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

If you couldn’t make it out this weekend, we’ve got you covered. Managing Editor Ryan Richardson and his 5-year-old daughter Emery stopped by Maui’s Indoor Theme Park and streamed a walkthrough during its Sneak Peek event, which continues today.

Watch the video here.

The public can again check things out (not every attraction is optional just yet) from noon to 9 p.m. today at Maui’s, located on Frederica Street in the former Towne Square Mall. The park will then close Monday through Thursday before reopening for its official launch on Friday.

Inside, the space is rapidly coming to life with a wide range of attractions, including an indoor roller coaster, go-karts, laser tag, a virtual reality 4D motion theater ride, mini golf, duckpin bowling, arcades, and multiple activity zones for younger children. The layout centers around a large open hub, with check-in and redemption areas anchoring the main floor and attractions branching out across the facility.

Emery gave the experience two thumbs up — and yes, she convinced her dad to stick around and play after the video.

By Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times

Communication boards are being installed at playgrounds across Owensboro’s city parks, giving children of all abilities new ways to interact, play, and build friendships.

The initiative is the result of a partnership between Owensboro Public Schools, RiverValley Behavioral Health, and the City of Owensboro Parks and Recreation Department. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Thursday at Moreland Park, though the boards are being placed at multiple parks citywide.

Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, president and CEO of RiverValley Behavioral Health, said the effort builds on a similar initiative launched last year in local schools.

“We partnered with Owensboro Public Schools to bring communication boards to every elementary school and preschool playground,” Figueroa-Peralta said. “We provide services to children and families with autism, developmental delays, and other communication challenges, and one of the places they sometimes feel isolated is during play.”

She said the success of those school-based boards led to expanding the concept into public spaces.

“We wanted to take it a step further because we know inclusion should not stop when the school bell rings,” she said. “Parks are where families gather and where children have the potential to build friendships and where community truly happens.”

The boards feature pictures, symbols, and simple words that allow children — including those who are nonverbal or learning English — to communicate basic needs and ideas such as “play,” “stop,” “bathroom,” or activities such as using the slide.

Carrie Wedding, director of special education for Owensboro Public Schools, said the boards are designed to remove barriers for children who may struggle to communicate.

“For us, we believe that all kids can do all things, but sometimes there are barriers for kids to access things that everybody else can access,” Wedding said. “This is just an easy thing to do to break the barrier so that you can have access to things just like everybody else can.”

Wedding said the boards mirror tools already used in classrooms, helping students apply those communication skills in real-world settings.

“It’s all about how our kids transition out into the real world,” she said. “It’s just another bridge for them to go from school out into the community.”

RiverValley Behavioral Health provided funding for the boards, while the City handled installation. Amanda Rogers, director of Owensboro Parks and Recreation, said the project was an easy decision once it was presented.

“This is a wonderful project,” Rogers said. “It’s been a great partnership to make this communication tool available to the public.”

Rogers said playgrounds are often a child’s first opportunity to socialize independently, making communication especially important.

“Playgrounds are one of the first places kids go to socialize with other children,” she said. “If you’ve got a child who doesn’t speak English or is nonverbal, that limits that interaction. This expands the potential for interaction for all.”

She added that the boards can also benefit children who are learning English as a second language, creating a more inclusive environment for a wider range of families.

Figueroa-Peralta said the initiative aligns directly with RiverValley’s mission to improve mental health and well-being through connection and inclusion.

“Communication is foundational to mental health and well-being,” she said. “When someone is not integrated and they don’t feel heard and valued, there is a lot of frustration and anxiety. This initiative supports making sure every child in every space in the community is heard.”

Wedding said early feedback from schools has been encouraging, with teachers requesting materials to help students learn how to use the boards and sharing examples of children actively engaging with them.

“It’s been really cool,” she said. “Something so simple can make such a huge difference.”

Community leaders say the collaboration highlights Owensboro’s broader commitment to inclusion.

“This is yet another way that Owensboro is a very inclusive community,” Wedding said. “We truly want everybody to have the opportunity to participate in everything that we have to offer.”

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Downtown Owensboro is hosting a Kentucky Derby celebration today through Saturday, aiming to bring together local restaurants, retailers, and entertainment across multiple locations.

Activities will include extended shopping hours, themed food and drink specials, live entertainment, and interactive promotions designed to draw people downtown.

“We got a bunch of the food and beverage district and retail district together downtown,” said Derek Stone of Downtown Owensboro. “I was trying to do more things to get everybody working together across the different areas.”

Stone said the idea was inspired in part by the success of downtown’s holiday stroll, with a similar goal of encouraging collaboration and increasing foot traffic.

A central feature of the event is a prize card promotion that encourages visitors to stop at multiple participating businesses. Customers can receive signatures with purchases, and completed cards will be entered into a drawing for a large prize basket made up of donations from local businesses.

“We’ve got a prize card that includes a lot of the downtown restaurants and shops,” Stone said. “Basically, you go somewhere, make a purchase, and they sign off on it. We’ve got a big prize basket put together with items donated from The Pub on Second, Magnolia Mercantile, and others, and Hampton Inn put in a free hotel night voucher.”

Second Street will be closed Thursday and Friday evenings between Allen and St. Ann streets to allow for vendors, outdoor shopping, and entertainment.

“We’re going to have an open shopping market,” Stone said. “We’ll have live music outside Thursday night, and then Friday night, one of our vendors is going to do the first disco downtown of the season.”

Many businesses will feature Derby-themed food and drink specials throughout the weekend, including traditional offerings and creative spins.

“Everybody’s got drink and food specials going on,” Stone said. “Of course, you’ll see mint juleps, Woodford spires, oak lilies, and some unique takes, too. I think Don Mario’s is doing a mint julep margarita.”

Retailers are also planning to extend their hours on Thursday and Friday.

“Most of them are going to stay open until 8 p.m.,” Stone said. “They usually close earlier, so this gives people a chance to do some late-night downtown shopping.”

While the street closures and larger outdoor elements are focused on Thursday and Friday, activities will continue Saturday during regular business hours, including the final opportunity to complete prize cards and enjoy Derby-themed offerings. Many establishments are also expected to show the race.

“We’re trying to encourage people to get downtown and make it a full Derby weekend instead of just one day,” Stone said.

Individual businesses will also host their own promotions, including best-dressed contests, photo opportunities, and giveaways.

“It should be a fun and good time for anybody who wants to get out and enjoy the weekend,” Stone said.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

A regional chimney and fireplace service company with roots dating back nearly four decades is continuing to build on its reputation for reliability and customer care.

Gray Cat Chimney, founded in 1987 by a local couple, was established with a goal of providing dependable chimney and fireplace services to homeowners. Company officials said that commitment to quality work and customer relationships has helped the business grow into a trusted name across the region.

In 2019, the company entered a new chapter under the ownership of Scott and Jeremiah, who now lead daily operations. Scott, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified technician, brings technical expertise and a service-oriented background to the business.

Company leaders said they remain focused on maintaining the values that have guided Gray Cat Chimney since its founding, including honesty, attention to detail, and treating customers like family.

Gray Cat Chimney offers a wide range of services centered on chimney, fireplace, and masonry care. Those services include chimney inspections, sweeping and cleaning, repairs, relining, and installation of chimney caps and dampers. The company also provides fireplace installation, repair, and conversion services, along with routine cleaning and maintenance.

In addition, the business specializes in masonry work such as brick and stone repair, tuckpointing, waterproofing, and full construction or restoration projects.

Company representatives emphasized the importance of regular chimney inspections and maintenance, noting that buildup of creosote, soot, and debris can create fire hazards or restrict airflow. Early detection of issues such as cracks or structural damage can help prevent more serious problems and improve overall safety.

Gray Cat Chimney also offers dryer vent cleaning services, which officials said can reduce fire risk and improve energy efficiency by removing lint buildup that can accumulate over time.

With more than 30 years of experience, company leaders said their goal remains to provide homeowners with peace of mind through safe, efficient, and high-quality service.

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