J-MACK BBQ received the Small Business Administration 2019 Kentucky Rural Small Business of the Year and The Kentucky Pacesetter Award at the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort, Kentucky on May 8.
The U.S. Small Business Administration recognizes outstanding small businesses and entrepreneurs with annual awards. The Kentucky Small Business Development Center’s Pacesetter Recognition Program honors high-performing second stage businesses that are producing innovative products, increasing sales, creating jobs, and serving communities of the Commonwealth.
Jay and Michelle Tapscott, owners of J-MACK BBQ, have been in business in Calvert City since 2015. Getting their start at BBQ on the River and a combined 39 years of experience, Jay and Michelle say the trick to perfecting BBQ is “low and slow.”
J-MACK serves fresh meat every day and takes pride in everything they sell.
Jay is from Lone Oak and Michelle is from Bardwell. Nine years ago they moved to Gilbertsville with their four children. After a lot of thought and prayers, the Tapscott’s decided it was time to open their restaurant. “We threw around the idea for a BBQ restaurant for years. We are proud to live in Marshall County and Calvert City seemed to be the perfect location and fit. The restaurant is just seven minutes from our home. We passed by the building every day and God finally nudged us into buying it,” Michelle said.
When Jay and Michelle decided to move forward with their dream, they reached out to Murray State’s Small Business Development Center. “They knew the ins and outs of small businesses and had many resources to assist in business development.” Michelle said the best part about working with Murray State was the services offered were free. “For small business owners this is extremely important. We’re just small people trying to make it in a big world and live out our dream.”
“We love the people of Calvert City and look forward to the completion of the multi-use trail. We have great support and we appreciate all of our customers. We plan to stay here in Calvert City for many years,” said Michelle.
Outside of BBQ, Jay loves to hunt and fish on Kentucky Lake. Michelle scrapbooks and enjoys spending time with her friends. “Our philosophy is God first, family second, and career third.” When coming up with a name for the business they wanted to choose a name with meaning. J-MACK stands for Jay, Michelle And Crazy Kids.
Jay and Michelle are humbled and grateful for receiving this state recognition for all their hard work. For those looking to open a business, Michelle says, “Be committed! Pray about everything, treat others the way you want to be treated and take advice. Don’t try to re-invent the wheel.”
Congratulations J-MACK! Calvert City is proud of your business and your contribution to the quality of life and economy of Calvert City. -Submitted by Blair Travis, Director of Marketing & Business Development for Calvert City
