[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 90 (Tuesday, May 24, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2661-S2662]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING DRUTHER'S RESTAURANT

 Mr. PAUL. Madam 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, KY, 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

[[Page S2662]]

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.

                          ____________________