FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 26, 2022
 Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, recognized Druther’s Restaurant of Campbellsville, Kentucky, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Dr. Paul entered the following into the Congressional Record:

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize the small business, Druther’s Restaurant of Campbellsville, Kentucky, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. 

Steve McCarty, owner and operator of the last remaining Druther’s restaurant in the world, understands the importance of commitment and passion when managing a business. His dad built the Campbellsville store in 1970, originally named Burger Queen before the company’s rebrand to Druther’s in 1980. It was an independent franchise fully owned by the McCarty family. Steve developed a love for the Druther’s business at a young age, as he began working there at only 15 years old. At its peak of success, the Druther’s franchise had around 200 locations spanning from Florida to Missouri, as well as international locations, and a devoted consumer base. In light of financial woes burdening the company in the early 1990s, the owners decided to sell their business to Dairy Queen, leaving 12 independent franchises remaining. Despite this drastic change within the company, Steve and his family wanted to continue the Druther’s tradition and keep their independent restaurant open. Having now worked at Druther’s for over 45 years, Steve McCarty is the embodiment of dedication and persistence as he works day in and day out to preserve the Druther’s story.

To this day, Steve will have restaurant-goers come and visit Druther’s from all over the country, seeking a taste of the classic food they once cherished. Druther’s has maintained the same menu ever since its installation in 1970, only adding additional items to create a wider selection for customers. Throughout its operation, Druther’s has always been and continues to be a shining example of what makes a great restaurant: tasty food, excellent service, and an unspoken familiarity among staff and customers. Along with its excellent food and atmosphere, Druther’s is committed to giving back to the people of Campbellsville and the surrounding areas. Steve and his team have been a part of several charitable initiatives, including donating to the Toys for Tots program, sending food to Taylor County High School in Campbellsville, and providing free hot meals to all Taylor County residents affected by tornadoes in December of 2021. 

Druther’s continues to provide a sense of joyful nostalgia that their loyal customers love. The restaurant’s devotion to keeping the magic of the brand alive is evident among their staff, as Steve works alongside several employees who have been there for over a decade-a testament to both Steve as a business owner and to the wonderful work environment he has cultivated since Druther’s founding.  

The old-fashioned and welcoming nature of Druther’s makes it the perfect time-capsule for Kentuckians to re-live cherished memories of days gone by. Druther’s unwavering commitment to high quality and service is the reason why people from all over the country are willing to travel hundreds of miles to enjoy their delicious food. This restaurant demonstrates the important role small businesses play within a tightknit community; providing joy and support to their friends and neighbors alike. Congratulations to Steve and the entire Druther’s team. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky.

As Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Dr. Paul continues the tradition of honoring America’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. The Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to the Small Business Administration and investigates all problems relating to America’s small businesses.

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