Owensboro Living June / July 2015

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FROM THE EDITOR

Publisher/Creative Director Jason Tanner Editor Steven Wilson

OW E N SBORO’ S O LD FAVO RI T ES

Ad Sales Bo Alexander Robert Williams

Of all the issues we’ve done so far, this may be my favorite. So much has happened in Owensboro since October 2013, and we’ve been fortunate to cover most all of it within these pages.

But Owensboro isn’t Owensboro only because of the new and the exciting. Our city also has a long history of successful local businesses that have stood the test of time. With this issue, we take time to recognize the best of those, as voted on by you, our faithful readers. And judging by your votes, that history had a lot to do with how you cast your ballots.

I don’t think it’s coincidence that so many of our readers’ choices for “Best Of ” have been around for 50-plus years. Because while some eating establishments or service providers may be newer and shinier, it’s difficult to deny the draw of an old favorite.

Anymore, you’d be hard pressed to find a restaurant without a burger on the menu. Some pride themselves on making a bigger burger, or one with exotic toppings. But when the votes were tallied (spoiler alert!), Big Dipper’s burgers won the day.

If you’ve eaten one (and who hasn’t?) then you know there’s nothing fancy about the way the Dipper serves their beef patties on a bun. Still, great flavor, combined with an atmosphere that takes you back in time, make the Big Dipper burgers Owensboro’s favorite.

Or how about the Rolling Pin for donuts, Mudd’s for furniture or Hillcrest for golf? These aren’t just businesses in Owensboro – they’re institutions. Over the years, other restaurants and stores have come and gone, but when it comes to the Best of Owensboro, you clearly appreciate and support those with staying power – which I guess is a big part of the reason they’ve stuck around for so long.

Steven Wilson, Editor

Cover Design Andrea Roberson Ad Design Andrea Roberson Jason Tanner Taylor West Contributors Gail E. Kirkland Danny May Dr. Jason Mills, MD Elizabeth Muster Jaime Rafferty Ashley Sorce Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt

“JUDGING BY YOUR VOTES, HISTORY HAD A LOT TO DO WITH HOW YOU CAST YOUR BALLOTS.” -JASON TANNER

Printing Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky Online www.owensboroliving.com facebook.com/owensboroliving twitter.com/owensboroliving issuu.com/owensboroliving Offline Owensboro Living Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 888-304-5414 Subscribe Delivery of Owensboro Living is available by visiting owensboroliving.com/subscribe Advertise Owensboro Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise.

A Jason Tanner Design Group Company

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Effective brand interactions.

TM

2015

JUNE JULY

[08]

THE BUZZ

THE REAL PEOPLE, PLACES AND EVENTS THAT SHAPE OUR COMMUNITY

[12]

THE PULSE

KEEP CANCER AT BAY WHILE CATCHING SOME RAYS

FEATURES

[46]

[16] FRIDAY AFTER FABULOUS [22] LIVING IN STYLE [29] HUTS FOR HAITI [34] MEN OF HONOR

[34]

[52]

[46] GET READY TO ROMP [52] BOB MANTOOTH

FATHER FIGURE OF THE FIELD

[58]

2015 BEST OF OWENSBORO LIVING

[68]

THE DISH

GRILL UP A MEMORABLE FATHER’S DAY EASY TREATS FOR THE 4TH OF JULY

[72]

[29]

THE SCENE

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND OWENSBORO

[12] www.OwensboroLiving.com

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THE

BUZZ

INTERNATIONAL BBQ FESTIVAL A HIT On the second weekend in May, for the 37th consecutive year, downtown Owensboro was jumping with the sights, sounds and smells of the International BarB-Q Festival. From the car show to the 5K Run/Walk, the festival held something for everyone.

Children played on the carnival rides, participants stuffed their faces (literally) at the pie eating contest, and the festival even included a bench press and dead

lift competition for Owensboro’s strongest to show their strength and benefit the Special Olympics.

For the Governor’s Cup Cooking Team Competition, 5 churches each cooked over 600 pounds of mutton, 400 pounds of pork, 300 chickens, and 60 gallons of burgoo. St. Mary Magdalene Parish was crowned the victor of the competition, marking their 16th overall title, and their first since 2013.

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN HIRES NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR Rob Mallory, associate director of athletics at Quincy University for the past four years, has been appointed Director of Athletics at Kentucky Wesleyan College, as announced by President Bart Darrell.

ROD DRAKE NAMED COACH OF THE YEAR After leading the Owensboro

Mallory, 35, currently oversees a comprehensive NCAA compliance program

seniors, Aric Holman and Justin

and management of all

Miller, also received individual

game operations plus leads

team to a 31-4 season and

honors from the KHSAA to go with

the department in the

the Red Devils’ first Sweet

their state championship. Holman,

absence of the director of

16 title since 1980, Rod

who has committed to play for

Drake was awarded the

Mississippi State, received first team

Kentucky Associated Press

All-State honors, and Miller, who will

boys’ basketball Coach of the

play next year at KWC, was named to

High School boys basketball

Year award. Two of Owensboro’s

the All-State second team.

athletics. He also supervises the areas of sports information and athletic training, provides support in the areas of budgeting, strategic planning, and personnel decisions.

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LOCAL STORIES DELIVERED DAILY

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it

music, sports, education, and everything

again: This is an exciting time to live

in between, there is simply no other

in Owensboro! Now, were excited to

place that offers so much local content

invite you to owensboroliving.com -

right at your fingertips.

your free online source for local news in Owensboro and Western Kentucky.

“The Buzz” section in our print version simply wasn’t big enough to contain all of the amazing things going on in our city. Updated daily, owensboroliving. com is quickly becoming the go-to site for the latest news in our vibrant community. Covering local news,

PHOTO BY DAVID GRINNELL

HAPPY FEET EQUALS HAPPY LEARNING

CLIFF HAGAN BOYS & GIRLS CLUB TO REMAIN OPEN The Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club is pleased to announce that the C. Martel Wightman Unit located at the Rolling Heights Housing Authority will remain open through December 2015 thanks to the generosity of the Michael E. Horn Family Foundation. The Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club serves youth ages 6-18. The Horn Family Foundation’s generous donation will allow the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club to continue to ensure that our community’s youth become productive, caring, and responsible citizens. The Horn Family Foundation challenges business and community leaders and individuals to make pledges to financially support the recurring yearly expense of Club operations.

www.OwensboroLiving.com

The Daviess County Public Schools district has accepted a gift of $5,000 to purchase new shoes for students. The donation from the Owensboro Building and Construction Trades Council was given to area nonprofit group Happy Feet Equals Learning Feet and earmarked for DCPS students. At an estimated average of $30 per pair, the $5,000 donation will provide new shoes for approximately 166 students. Students will be professionally fitted with appropriate footwear at the local Shoe Carnival store in a positive and respectful atmosphere.

For more information about Happy Feet, contact Jerry Baird at 270-952-2006 or visit www. happyfeetequalslearningfeet.com

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LOOKING BACK AT SPEND A BUCK Hillcrest Info Graphic

Course Numbers: 69 acres 9 holes 67.4 course rating 122 slope rating for par 70 layout 12,643 rounds of golf played at Hillcrest since July 1,2014 (as of May 15) History: 1930 – The 70 acres that became Hillcrest were leased by Owensboro Jaycees from Whitely Dear Farm.

1954 – Jaycees request that the City of Owensboro recreation board takes over Hillcrest Golf Course.

1969 – City of Owensboro officially purchased the property, making it a permanent member of the Parks Organization.

Timeline: 2010 – Hillcrest nearly closes. City Commission approved the closure in March, but it was overturned in June and remains open.

February, 2015 – Local media outlets report that the future of Hillcrest is uncertain.

April, 2015 – City discusses plans to sell Hillcrest at end of season. Dale Roberts starts “Keep Hillcrest Open Group” on Facebook to raise public awareness of impending closure. Soon 3,000 people join.

Wednesday, April 29 – Concerned citizens protest Hillcrest closure outside Owensboro Convention Center.

Tuesday, May 5 – Mayor Payne proposes increase in the occupational tax rate in an effort to keep Hillcrest open.

Wednesday, May 6 - Chamber of Commerce publicly opposes proposal to raise taxes.

Thursday, May 7- Owensboro City Commission approved an amendment to the approved city budget for a tax increase to keep Hillcrest open. The occupational and net profit tax rates will be raised from their current 1.33 percent to 1.39 percent. This increase will generate enough revenue to cover the Hillcrest Golf Course deficit (and provide funds for the city’s commitment to help fund the construction of the International Bluegrass Music Museum).

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THE

BUZZ MAYOR’S GALA

The inaugural Mayor’s Gala was held on April 17 to benefit

the International Bluegrass Music Center project. Gulfstream Commercial Services and Envision Contractors underwrote the cost of the gala, allowing all the money raised to go toward completion of the project. Gov. Steve Beshear also committed $5 million to the project in state funds.

Musical guest Vince Gill and the Time Jumpers entertained the decked-out crowd with Gill’s classic country hits, and

PHOTOS BY AP IMAGERY

attendees enjoyed a formal night of food, music and fun.

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THE

PULSE

KEEP CANCER AT BAY WHILE CATCHING SOME RAYS

DR. JASON MILLS, MD OWENSBORO HEALTH

After a long, snowy and cold winter, there are a whole lot of people who are ready to get outside and bask in the warm sunshine.

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G

etting outside is a great thing, especially

• Melanoma: This type of cancer affects

when physical activity is involved. There’s

the

melanin-producing

cells

in

skin.

one big thing to keep in mind, though: Protect

It is rarer than basal or squamous cell

yourself from the sun.

cancers,

The sun doesn’t just put out light and heat.

Certain factors make a person more susceptible

It also puts out forms of radiation that we can’t

to skin cancer.

but

is

also

more

dangerous.

see. Most of that radiation is screened out by the

• Family or personal history of skin cancer

earth’s atmosphere, but ultraviolet radiation still

• Fair or lighter skin (though darker-skinned

makes it through. Our skin is there to protect us,

individuals are still at risk), red or blonde hair

and it reacts defensively. That’s why people tan,

and blue or green eyes

because their skin is creating a substance called

• Skin that burns, reddens, freckles or becomes

“melanin,” which helps absorb the radiation and keep it at skin level. Ultraviolet radiation is also a

painful easily after sun exposure • Exposure to the sun through work or

product of tanning beds.

Radiation is damaging to skin cells, however,

recreation • History of sunburns (with more sunburns

and those cells lose their ability to repair and

associated with increasing risk)

reproduce properly because of that damage. As

The good news about skin cancer is that it

time goes on, that damage can become so extreme

has some very recognizable signs. If caught early,

that the cells lose their ability to self-regulate,

most types are also very treatable and curable

growing out of control and becoming dangerous.

through surgery and other means. Watching for

That’s what skin cancer is, and it is a real problem.

skin changes is an important step to catching

It’s also not an isolated problem. Every day, my

skin cancer early. With melanoma, the key to

colleagues and I see tissue samples where we find

identifying potential problem spots is knowing

evidence of a skin cancer. According to the Centers

your ABCDEs:

for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta,

• A is for asymmetry: Do you have any moles

skin cancer affected 65,647 people in 2011 (the

with an irregular shape, or that have parts that

most recent year data is available). Another 9,128

look very different?

people died, with men being at a much higher risk

• B is for border: Are the edges of the mole or

of death from skin cancer.

There are a few different types of skin cancer.

lesion jagged or uneven?

• C is for color: Is the color of the area uneven

The most common types include: • Basal cell carcinoma: Typically a slow-

or irregular?

• D is for diameter: Is the spot or lesion larger

growing type of cancer on the top layer of the skin. If caught early, it is highly curable.

than a pea?

• E is for evolving: Does the mole, spot or

• Squamous cell carcinoma: A common type

lesion change over time (especially if it

of skin cancer that is highly associated with

changes quickly)?

sun exposure. If caught early, this type is also

highly curable.

for symptoms like above, or patches that bleed

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In the case of non-melanoma skin lesions, watch

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or are irritated and do not heal. If the answer

Some steps you can take include:

to any of the above questions is yes, then it’s

• Protective clothing: Use of clothing,

time to talk to a doctor. Your doctor can help

including hats (especially ones that cover

identify if you have a problem, or can refer

the face and neck) and sunglasses, is a

you to a specialist who can do further study

great way to block harmful UV rays. This

to identify if you need medical intervention.

is important even on cloudy days, because

It’s absolutely critical to remember that skin

ultraviolet rays are not stopped by clouds.

cancers are time-sensitive: Waiting increases the danger and risk of bad outcomes, so don’t procrastinate!

• Shady behavior: Staying in the shade helps reduce ultraviolet exposure.

• Screen

and

block:

Sunscreen

and

Lastly, skin cancer is not just treatable and

sunblock are an important defense against

curable, but oftentimes is preventable. It’s

sun exposure. An SPF 15 or higher is

important to take steps to protect yourself and

recommended. Don’t skimp on it. Slather

especially small children, since sun exposure

it on early and often.

adds up over a lifetime and early sunburns

• Avoid indoor tanning: Tanning beds are

increase the risk of later cancers. Preventing

associated with skin cancer risk, and the

sun exposure doesn’t just help prevent cancer,

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

but also prevents sun damage that can have

recommend avoiding indoor tanning. If

cosmetic effects, causing skin to appear older

you are going to tan, do so responsibly and

and less healthy than a person’s actual age

keep an eye out for changes in your skin.

would suggest.

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FRIDAY AFTER FABULOUS BY GAIL E. KIRKLAND

G

oing into its 19th season and being the

do not have any money, so we don’t charge them

first of its kind nationwide, Friday After

anything. If they register with us, we give them a free

5 has grown exponentially into a 17-week

table and chairs in the lobby for a little registration

fun, free, friendly, family-focused event that now

meeting place . . . we will help promote the fact that

encompasses much more than the RiverPark Center

they are having a little ‘pre-union’ at Friday After 5 .

patio. Their $160,000 budget is supported solely

. . free band, great venue, beautiful view, something

through sponsorships, which provide five music

for their kids and a cash bar—and it doesn’t cost them

venues: in the courtyard; on the RPC patio; gospel

anything. That’s become a nice addition,” Kirk said.

music in Cannon Hall (6 events supported by Glenn

Family Services); on the overlook stage (Bluegrass

to the RiverPark Center . . . we will produce these

jam sessions); and new this year will be the Party

shows for you; you give us the RiverPark Center

Pier—opening mid-June. The courtyard features

at no cost. We will do all the work. We will get the

acoustic music, but the other areas offer a smorgasbord

sponsors, get the bands, take care of the insurance . . .

of music genres. According to Kirk Kirkpatrick,

we will do everything. All you do is sell the food and

executive director of Friday After 5, one of the big

drink and you keep all of the money. It makes a lot of

surprises is that one of every six attendees at FA5 is

money for the RiverPark Center . . . that’s part of our

from out of town.

mission. It likely makes them more money than any

Class “pre-unions” are another successful Friday

specific series they have,” Kirk said. As a non-profit,

After 5 venture provided at no charge – 30 are

FA5 charges a $35 fee for street vendors, but that fee

scheduled this year. “It’s very simple. We know they

is waived for non-profits. “Whether it’s Dream Riders

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“Friday After 5 began with a handshake. We went

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PHOTO BY ADAM PARIS

or Hospice, Boys’ Club or Girls’ Inc., we want to

give them exposure and help them. A lot of people

chairman of the event. Last year it was Chad Hart.

don’t realize how valuable that is to them (the non-

The year before it was Brandon Gentry . . . this

profits); they are so appreciative,” Kirk said. The

year it’s Andrew Howard. They are all 30 years old

kick-off featured a non-profit block party. Friday

or younger. What we try to do is provide leadership

After 5 has a different theme every week.

opportunities for our young professionals. We

The City of Owensboro is one of their sponsors,

don’t want an old guy like me going out...They are

providing a small grant to FA5, but the City is not

responsible for meeting with each of the sponsors,

responsible for any of the logistics. A minimum

which is great networking for them. They are

sponsorship is $5000, with some being corporate

responsible for overseeing the specifics—every stage

sponsors and others being weekly sponsors. It

has a producer and an assistant producer—including

depends on the band and the weekend, according

the street fair, the Party Pier, the courtyard, etc.

to Kirk. To their delight, Friday After 5 has a short

These are the people that book the band; they get

waiting list of those wanting to support the event.

the W-9s; they get the signed contract; they set up

“We are totally sold out for our weekly sponsors,”

the stage. It’s a big job,” Kirk said. “Nothing is

Kirk said, “and we already know of some who

overwhelming, and I’m there as a safety net, but we

wish to be sponsors next year, which is great.” As

want them to get involved in the community.” He

executive director, Kirk is generally responsible for

sees it as an important learning position for these

acquiring sponsorships, but a viable network of 20+

young leaders, a launching pad of sorts, which

volunteers supports his efforts.

takes them on to other volunteer positions within

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“Every year we have a different chairman, the

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FA5 and ultimately in the community. These individuals

the-ground pricing,” Kirk said. Most bands are booked six

represent the unsung success of Friday After 5. “Providing

months in advance. An easy submission form is available

these learning / leadership opportunities is honestly one of the

online, and over 170 bands applied this season.

best things that Friday After 5 does that people don’t know,”

Kirk said. The well-organized infrastructure of a chairman

seem to have steady attendance regardless, since the shows

(the spokesperson), vice-chairman (chairman in training),

go forward, rain or shine. Kirk estimates a 60,000-70,000

producer, and assistant producer is critical to Friday After 5’s

attendance over a season’s span—May 15 through September

continued success.

4. In regard to the strategic booking of bands for specific

Brandon is now chairman of the board of directors for

dates, Kirk said, “It’s a real recipe that’s difficult to give you.

FA5. “Kirk has a remarkable ability to get people to buy

We are flexible enough to do things with common sense. We

into not just being a volunteer but making a difference. That

try to have different genres of bands, we have to juggle that.

resonated with me,” Brandon said.

We also have to juggle our pricing, and we have to juggle our

sponsors.”

Three things allow FA5 to get great pricing. First, the

Weather is certainly a factor in FA5’s attendance, but they

event is on a Friday night, not a Saturday. Second, it’s a

fabulous venue for exposure for the performers. Third, it’s

enjoying five free music venues with friends and family. As

over at 10 o’clock. The band actually begins playing at 6:30

Kirk said, “It’s an opportunity to get off your telephone and

p.m.; on the Party Pier it’s 7:30-11 p.m. “If people say to us

talk to people face-to-face.” It may even be an opportunity to

that they’d like to get that band for their wedding, we say talk

be photographed with your friends, in the now-famous red

to the band. We don’t reveal because they give us pants-on-

frame featured on their Facebook page. Simply fabulous!

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Toast to the Sunset at Friday After 5 this summer after

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

O W E N S B O R O H E A LT H

HARVEST MARKET AT OWENSBORO HEALTH

F

resh fruits and vegetables (and so much more) get

Last year’s Harvest Market was not just for any one group of

their start right here, close to home, and they will

people. We wanted it to be for people of all ages, backgrounds

be available at the Harvest Market at Owensboro

and lifestyles. That is something we’re looking forward to

Health Regional Hospital once a week this summer, thanks

continuing this year. In addition to locally grown and produced

to a continuing partnership with the Owensboro Regional

foods and educational materials and demonstrations, we’re

Farmers Market.

going to give people plenty of reasons why the Harvest Market

Owensboro Health’s mission is to heal the sick and to

is the place to be.

improve the health of the communities we serve. Last year, we decided to try something new to achieve the second part

Some of our program offerings this summer will include:

of our mission. The Harvest Market was born, offering local

• Flower arrangement and gardening demonstrations

residents a chance at fresh local produce, eggs, meats and more.

• Entertainment and music

We wanted to give people a way to have easy access to healthier

• Healthy recipes and samples

foods because we know that diet is one of the most critical

• Running and walking education

components in living a healthy lifestyle.

• Smoking cessation education and resources

We didn’t just focus on food, though. We saw that the

• Boating, hunting and fishing safety

Harvest Market was a chance to share useful information about any number of healthcare, physical activity and nutrition

topics. This summer, we plan to do more of the same, with the

money to walk away with something. It may be information

Harvest Market being an opportunity for people from around

about a topic that interests you, a recipe that you want to try,

the region to not only feed their bodies, but also their minds.

or even an item that we’re giving away to help get the word out

about wellness topics.

When you are sick, Owensboro Health and the people who

If you come to the Harvest Market, you don’t have to spend

work there are ready to do deliver world-class care to get you

well again. But when you’re well, we’re not just going to stand

we have planned for Harvest Market, come see our website at

back and wait until you need medical attention again. We’re

www.owensborohealth.org/harvestmarket. We hope to see you

looking for ways to help you stay well and even live a healthier,

this summer!

If you’d like to know more about or see a schedule of what

longer life.

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Living IN STYLE

SUMMER FASHION FROM LOCAL BOUTIQUES 1) Kendra Scott Rae necklace $65 BLOSSOMS

7) Tassel Necklace by Love, Poppy $75 BELLA RAGAZZA

2) Crochet Maxi Dress $59 BELLA RAGAZZA

Bohemian style dresses are a must for summer!

3) Soho multi colored tank dress $52 PEACOCKS & PEARLS 4) Black and White striped leather purse with tassel accent $69 PEACOCKS & PEARLS 5) Seychelles Auburn Wedges $98 BELLA RAGAZZA

These are a great height and color to pair with all your dresses this season.

6) Floral Two Piece Outfit: Shorts $48 Top $48 EMBELLISH

2

These unique necklaces are handmade in Mississippi. This collection incorporates 14k goldplated metals, genuine leathers, gemstones and crystals.

8) Bou-Cou Fringe Necklace $78 EMBELLISH

1

9) Poppy Print Racerback Dress

by Britt by Britt Ryan $126 BLOSSOMS 10) Personalized Python Clutch

by Gigi New York $98 BLOSSOMS

4

3

5

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Living IN STYLE 11) Bone Leather Narissaa Wedges by Steve Madden $80 BLOSSOMS 12) Coral Embroidered Maxi $158 EMBELLISH 13) Jumpsuit by Splendid $188 EXCURSIONS 14) Strapless Kelly Green Dress $97 PEACOCKS & PEARLS 15) Sun dress by Donna Morgan $175 EXCURSIONS

16) Lenora Dame pearl and gold Bracelet and necklace $49/$65 PEACOCKS & PEARLS

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17) Handbag by Brighton $285 EXCURSIONS 18) Hawaiian Print Dress $40 BELLA RAGAZZA Easy and comfortable dress

can be worn with heels or sandals.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

EDWARD JONES

MAKE TIMELY ADJUSTMENTS TO YOUR

529 PLAN

If you have school-age children, you might greet the arrival of June with some relief — for at least a few months, you don’t have to worry about “encouraging” kids to do their homework, study for tests, give you their permission slips for field trips, and so on. But one day, these obligations will give way to a substantially bigger one — paying for college.

If you’ve already begun preparing for that day with a tax-

years until you need to tap into the money — which means

advantaged college-savings vehicle, such as a 529 plan, you’re

your account has more time for growth potential and more

taking a positive step, because higher education is expensive. But

time to “smooth out” those periods of market volatility, which

it’s not enough to just set up your 529 plan — you may also need

will certainly occur. Consequently, you may be able to afford

to adjust it over time.

to invest somewhat more aggressively when your children are

young.

Up until this year, you were only allowed to change the

investments in your 529 plan once a year. This caused concern

among some investors, who wanted the freedom to change their

to revisit the level of risk in your 529 plan. So, during the last

529 investments in response to movements in the financial

couple of years before you need to access your plan, you may

markets. But late in 2014, President Obama signed into law the

want to consider moving some of your investment dollars to

Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) act, the key purpose

more conservative allocations. By doing so, you’ll cut back on

of which was to create tax-free accounts allowing people to save

your growth potential, but you’ll also lessen the risk of taking

for disability-related expenses. And one provision of the ABLE

a big hit if you have to start taking withdrawals during a

act also allows 529 plan investors to change their investments

“down” market.

twice a year, rather than once.

If you invest in a 529 plan, you might welcome this additional

your investment mix toward a more conservative approach

freedom to adjust your investments. Still, keep in mind that

as your children near college age. But you may want to make

a 529 plan is a long-term vehicle that’s not really designed to

your own adjustments, possibly with the help of a financial

accommodate frequent “tweaking.” And, as is true with any

professional, to ensure that your 529 plan accurately reflects

investment account, such as your IRA and 401(k), you don’t want

your own preferences and risk tolerance.

to over-react to short-term market fluctuations by making radical

changes to your investment mix.

find a 529 plan to be a great help. Just be sure to keep a close

watch on your plan’s investments as the years go by.

Nonetheless, you will almost certainly want to adjust your 529

However, as your kids near college, you will probably want

Some 529 plans offer an option that automatically adjusts

As you save for your children’s college education, you may

plan investments somewhat — at least in the long term. If you’ve

opened a 529 plan when your children are young, you have many

Jones Financial Advisor.

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This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward

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BY JAIME RAFFERTY

HUTS FOR HAITI

F

or many Americans, it’s a difficult concept to

A group of concerned men from several different

think that our children would have to sleep on the

local churches, Matt Castlen, David Duckwall, David

ground each night. However, in Haiti this is a reality

Nash and John Warren, decided to make tragedy into

that is faced each night at what we would call “bed

triumph.

time.” A bed would seem a luxury, a roof would be

The group originally travelled to Haiti to build

humane.

housing, sharing God’s grace and love with the people

According to Amnesty International, more than

there. The goal of the mission is to start by building

2 million people were homeless after the earthquake

the huts to create opportunities to share the message of

that violently shook Haiti, January 12, 2010. Data

Jesus Christ with those in need.

from September 2014 shows 123 camps for internally

displaced people (IDPs) remain open in Haiti, housing

huts provide housing to a few of the locals. He came

85,432 people. Estimates suggest that 37,000 houses

home to research this opportunity as a mission project,

have been repaired, rebuilt or built. However, less than

and was able to locate the specific huts used.

20% of the housing solutions provided as a response to

the disaster could be seen as long-term, or sustainable.

homes were constructed through Global Compassion,

Instead, most programs only provide temporary

providing emergency housing for disaster in this third

solutions in the face of what could be another looming

world country. Each structure measures approximately

disaster.

280 square feet.

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After a trip to Haiti, one of the men had seen the

Since the 2010 earthquake, upwards of 60 “Safe T”

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Recently, the group began a fundraiser to help see this

on the ground. They are well ventilated with a double roof

dream to help their fellow man, in Haiti, come to life.

structure to provide cooler, more comfortable temperatures in

the hot climate.

The fundraiser is for steel homes that the team will travel

to Haiti and construct from February 16-23, 2016. The goal

is to raise funds for ten homes at a cost of $6,000 per home,

in Haiti. Add to that a corrupt government, over population,

plus shipping. These homes will provide protection from

limited water supply, lack of employment and limited food

hurricanes, earthquakes, and theft. Each dwelling has a water

supply, and you can begin to grasp the obstacles that the people

collection system that funnels water to boxes that are attached

of this country face.

to the sides of the hut. The side boxes are filled with soil used

hope the people allow for them to share the love and grace of

for a counterweight for high winds, but also a place to grow

Jesus Christ with them. The team is not going to Haiti to build

vegetables and fruits for food. Huts are equipped with a loft to

houses strictly for humanitarian needs, but to be servants of

provide a place for a family of ten to sleep, instead of sleeping

God’s Kingdom and share His love with people. The homes

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The men say that words can’t describe the living conditions

Castlen, Duckwall, Nash and Warren

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will provide a place for the families to raise their children in a safe environment.

The hope of these missionaries is that the people they encounter will be open to the saving grace of Jesus Christ, so that one day they will walk on streets of gold with their Christian brothers and sisters.

As

of

Thursday,

March

26

the

hardworking group has raised over $26,000.

If you feel compelled to donate, you can help us build these Huts for Haiti by checking out www.hutsforhaiti.org

Contribute to Huts for Haiti To make a donation by check, mail to:

Global Outreach International P.O. Box 1 Tupelo, MS 38802 In the memo line of your check please write: “Heady’s Haiti Hut”

When donating online, please add special instructions to the seller: “Heady’s Haiti Hut” www.OwensboroLiving.com

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

ALLERGY & ASTHMA SPECIALISTS

ALLERGY TO RED MEAT BITING OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW

G

etting bitten by a lone star tick can provoke a food allergy

approaches, ticks will become more active. Take caution to avoid

to red (mammal) meats. This particular syndrome, known

coming in contact with ticks. When outdoors, avoid exposing

as alpha gal allergy, was first reported in 2009, but since that time

skin by wearing pants, long socks and long sleeve shirts. The CDC

countless cases have been uncovered including both children

recommends DEET repellant should be applied to any exposed

and adults (Commins & Platts-Mills, 2013).

Typically, food

skin and pretreating clothing and outdoor gear with permethrin.

allergy is a reaction involving a protein. For reasons that are

Checking skin for ticks, as well as pets, should be performed

still unknown, a lone star tick bite can alter the manner in which

following time spent outdoors. Inspection should occur in a well-

the body reacts to red meats. This immune process initiates the

lit area, and all skin surfaces should be examined. Some people

forming of antibodies against alpha gal. Future consumption of

find it easier to check their skin in the shower, where it may be

red meats such as beef, pork, lamb, deer, and rabbit can trigger the

convenient and less cumbersome to remove any ticks should they

immune system to fight, resulting in an allergic reaction. Allergic

be found. Clothing worn outdoors should be dried on high heat

reactions vary from patient to patient, and also in severity. A few

for up to one hour to kill any ticks that may be attached to these

of the most commonly reported symptoms are itching, swelling,

items.

and hives.

Unlike other food allergies where reactions occur almost

immediately after eating, alpha gal has delayed onset of allergy symptoms (three to eight hours later). Food allergy reactions may, or may not occur each time the food is eaten. In some patients, milk or gelatin have caused reactions. This can cause confusion for those who are attempting to establish the source of their symptoms. Experts are still researching alpha gal to uncover more information.

Reactions can vary from mild to severe, from an itch to

full blown anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an acute, severe allergic reaction that can be fatal. Many things can trigger an episode, such as medicines, stinging insects, or foods. Symptoms include runny nose, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing in the chest, anxiety, nausea, or low blood pressure (Anaphylaxis, 2014). Experts estimate between one third to one half of all anaphylactic reactions are food related (Lieberman et.al., 2010).

After reversing the reaction, and ensuring the patient is stable, identifying the source allergen is always the goal for the provider.

This information is crucial to avoiding future serious reactions.

When the trigger is a food, strict avoidance is the only option to avoiding potential reactions.

The CDC reports lone star ticks are indigenous to southeast

and south-central states, but there are many alpha gal patients outside of these regions (Lowry, 2012). As warmer weather 32 OWENSBORO LIVING

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Anyone who has been bitten by a lone star tick could be at risk

to develop alpha gal allergy. Allergy & Asthma Specialists, PSC have evaluated nearly 200 patients locally for alpha gal allergy. A diagnosis of food allergy can be overwhelming, as there is no cure available (Burks et.al., 2012). If you, or someone you know needs to be evaluated for food allergy, we can help. Dr. Clore can sit down with you to discuss your history, leading you to answers, and an emergency plan. Call today to schedule your appointment (270) 684-6144.

References Anaphylaxis. (2014). Epocrates. Retrieved from https://online.epocrates.com/ noFrame/showPage?method=diseases&MonographId=501&ActiveSectionId=24 Burks, A. W., Tang, M., Sicherer, S., Muraro, A., Eigenmann, P. A., Ebisawa, M., . . . Sampson, H. A. (2012). ICON: Food allergy. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 129(4), 906-920. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2012.02.001 http://www.cdc.gov/stari/disease/ Lieberman, P, Nicklas, R, Oppenheimer, J, et.al. The Diagnosis and Management of Anaphylaxis Practice Parameter. 2010 update. J Allergy Clinical Immunology 2010: 126: 447-480.

Lowry, 2012. Culprit Found for Newly Emerging Red Meat Allergy. Medscape Medical News. Retrieved from http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/774274#vp_2 Commins, S. P., & Platts-mills, T. (2013). Delayed anaphylaxis to red meat in patients with IgE specific for galactose alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal). Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 13(1), 72-7. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11882-012-0315-y www.OwensboroLiving.com

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BY

MELODY WALLACE

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A

s another Memorial Day passes, and we remember those who have fallen and were lost in battle, we must also remember those who are still with us. There is a generation of men that our children need to know.

These men are their grandfathers and their greatgrandfathers. These men entered into a grisly war when they were not much more than children themselves. Their lives were forever changed, and they were left with silent stories to carry and brothers they have either lost or kept for life.

VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Post 696 sits at the west end of Smothers Park, proudly overlooking the Owensboro riverfront. The VFW is a tightly -knit family of men and women who have been “honorably discharged from the U.S. armed forces, who have earned an overseas campaign medal,” and had their “feet on the ground in a combat zone” for thirty days or more. Within these walls are the stories of many men from many wars.

The president of the Ladies’ Auxiliary, Jessie Hettinger, pours her heart

into veterans every day in an effort to honor the memory of her uncle Robert Wright, who is still considered MIA (missing in action) from the Korean War. Walter Duke spent twenty-two years in the Army, served in the infantry during the Korean War, and then went into the Army aviation program to be a pilot. Walter retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel and, at eightythree years old, still owns and flies his own airplane, and treasures the lifelong friendships that he has with his brothers at the VFW. What is most amazing about these men is the amount of respect and admiration that they have for each other. Amongst the humor and the constant jabs for who had the guts to enlist and who was “invited” (drafted), there is an unspoken bond. One man will not hesitate to minimize his one tour in Vietnam against that of the man (Billy Milan) that did four tours and proudly wears a jacket to record his time on the famed “Hamburger Hill.” Yet, this morning, there is one man they wait for, that warrants their respect, for he is now one of very few that can stand and say he was there.

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DELMAR FREEMAN Like most boys in high school during World War II, Delmar Freeman wanted to join the military and fight for his country. He planned to join the Marine Corps, but his mother and father refused to sign for him. Again, like most young men, he was drafted anyway, but this time by the United States Navy. Delmar was not yet 18 and in the 11th grade when he joined the Navy as a Boatman’s Mate. Although the others in the room joke that he spent his entire time in the service sweeping the deck of the ship, Delmar says that there were several times that he had to man and fire a gun. Yet the scariest time aboard ship had nothing to do with enemy fire, but more to do with the enemy of nature. In October of 1945, Typhoon “Louise” made a path for Okinawa, damaging

DELMAR FREEMAN

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and destroying many boats in its path. Delmar recalls

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the rough waters and says of the experience, “(We) almost lost our ship, but we rode it out.”

After returning home from the Navy and the

war, Delmar lived in Paducah, Kentucky and then went on to work for Hudson Motor Car Company in Detroit, Michigan. This is where he met his beautiful bride of sixty-six years, Gertrude.

Twenty-four years ago, he retired from the Iron Workers Local 103 in Evansville. The men at the VFW seem to have almost as much admiration for his iron work as they do his military service. They sit in awe and say, “He built skyscrapers without safety harnesses or anything.” Whether it is for his military service or his bravery as an iron worker, Delmar, now eighty-nine, is still active in the VFW, and is a man and a veteran to be admired.

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JAMES “JIMBO” HALL BRUTON Another WWII veteran that is revered at Post 696 is Jimbo Bruton. James “Jimbo” Bruton grew up in the hills of Burtchville, Kentucky. By the time he reached high school, he weighed one hundred ninety pounds, was six foot three inches tall, and “played every sport there was.” In fact, Bruton says that his presence in a crucial football game in Bowling Green “cost me from being drafted. I was just turning 18, and a bunch of my buddies and I were going to join the Navy.” He thought the Navy would offer him a better chance for advancement, but a very persuasive Army Sergeant said to him, “Join the Army and see how fast you advance, boy.” Never one to back down from a challenge, Bruton became an Army paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne. After routinely

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jumping with ninety-eight pounds of equipment on his back, including forty-two pounds of parachute, Bruton says he “went up seventeen times before I realized one could land.” Jimbo recalls going through paratrooper school with late actor William Windom. Bruton says of their different paths after the war, “He became a movie star. I was good with my hands.”

Unfortunately, those hands were put to use by the Germans to repair railroads “that had been damaged

by Allied bombs.” Bruton was one of many American paratroopers that were captured and held as POW’s (Prisoners of War) at Stalag compound in Linburg, Germany. Bruton earned his Purple Heart the day he was captured by suffering a minor wound to the leg. He went on to spend over eight months at the prison camp, much of which is documented in Claire E. Swedberg’s book Work Commando 311/I. The book chronicles the personal accounts of several men at the compound,

JAMES “JIMBO” HALL BRUTON

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including Bruton. Documented in the book is the story

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of how a gruff guard saved him from gangrene with a set of pliers, and the infamous story in which he took down a low-flying WWI bomber plane with his athletic arm and a large rock.

Bruton credits his Kentucky upbringing with helping him to escape from the German POW compound. “I was born in the hills, so I was good at that. When they weren’t looking—I just slipped off.”

After being declared MIA for over eight months, he managed to escape over the course of eleven days and nights. Bruton says of his military service, “I’ve been through all that stuff…and I’d go again tomorrow.”

FRED L . WARD Fred Ward was born and raised in Whitesville, Kentucky and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at age 17. However, you will not find Mr. Ward at VFW Post 696. Instead you will find him proudly

FRED L . WARD

wearing his red satin Marine Corps jacket and uniform

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WORLD WAR II VETERANS The median age for World War II veterans is 96 years of age.

According to statistics released by the Veteran’s Administration, “our World War II vets are dying at a rate of approximately 492 a day. This means there are approximately only 855,070 veterans remaining of the 16 million who served our nation in World War II.”

Kentucky had nearly 11,000 WWII veterans at of the beginning of 2015.

For further information on these gentlemen and their stories, read Work Commando 311/I by Claire E. Swedberg, available on Amazon.com, and Picking Up the Pieces: The Battle of Iwo Jima by Fred L. Ward, available on Kindle and through Amazon.com.

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hat, gracing the hallways of a local full-time care facility. His daughter Carolyn says that the whole experience has been a blessing, as everyone at the facility has gone out of their way to show honor and respect for Mr. Ward’s WWII military service.

Alton Neagle, a Vietnam Army veteran and social worker at the facility, struck an immediate bond with Mr. Ward. Carolyn says that “The bond he and Daddy have is very, very special” and it “puts peace in my heart” to know there is someone there that cares for him in that way.

Up until very recently, Mr. Ward was able to clearly share his

wartime memories as if they happened yesterday. At the age of seventy-eight, he began requesting legal pads in an effort to free memories that had plagued his mind for nearly sixty years. He finally filled enough legal pads to publish the book Picking Up the Pieces: The Battle of Iwo Jima. In the book, Ward chronicles the horror he experienced as a nineteen-year-old Marine “on a tiny island that lay in the Pacific Ocean only 750 miles from Tokyo, Japan...so small I could ride my bicycle in any direction approximately 30 minutes.”

Ward landed on the island on February 19, 1945 and was

part of the original forty-man team that raised the first flag atop Mount Suribachi on February 23. Mr. Ward recalls, “The first flag was too small so we went to a ship (aircraft carrier) to get a bigger one.” This bigger flag is the one we have come to know from the now-famous picture. Five days after raising the flag, Ward was shot in the calf, earning a Purple Heart, and two weeks in the island infirmary. Ward was one of thirty-two men that were wounded or killed out of the original forty-man flagraising team. When asked now why they raised the flag that day, he said it was to let the enemy know that “they better scoot or give up real quick.”

In October of 2014, the same year of the seventieth anniversary

of the Battle of Iwo Jima, Fred Ward was among those selected to fly to Washington through the Honor Flight Bluegrass program.

Alton saw to it that Mr. Ward received a full motorcycle escort to the Sportscenter before departing on the bus for Washington, D.C. Of the experience, Carolyn recalls, “before I could even get the wheelchair stopped, he was up out of that chair saluting that monument.” In reality, it is these men that risked their lives so many years ago, that we should all be saluting. www.OwensboroLiving.com

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

KE NTUC K I AN A AN I M AL C LIN I C

ask the expert: WHY WELLNESS PLANS?

Y

ou consider your pet as a part of your family. So how do you go about providing the best possible care for your

furry friend? Veterinary care can be expensive, and unexpected

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PAW PLANS? The main idea behind PAW Plans is to encourage pet owners

emergencies can not only take a toll on your emotions, but your

to practice preventative care. Using a proactive approach to

wallet, as well. With veterinary wellness plans, you can lower the

veterinary treatment allows veterinarians to identify health issues

risk of unanticipated health complications at an affordable price.

earlier, increasing the rate of recovery for pets and decreasing the

WHAT IS A WELLNESS PLAN? A wellness plan is a comprehensive veterinary care plan with bundled services. The plan is intended to promote preventative care at an affordable and convenient price. Wellness plans allow pet owners more financial flexibility, while still assuring their pets will receive exceptional care. At Kentuckiana Animal Clinic, our PAW Plans have

cost of care in the long run. By opting into a PAW Plan, you receive discounted preventative care services upwards of 50% off retail prices. Additionally, discounts are given on non-plan professional services. When your pet is enrolled in a PAW Plan, you never have to pay full price. On top of the discounts, PAW Plans allow pet owners the option to either pay for the plan in full or spread

been carefully crafted by our experienced veterinarians to provide

the cost of care with set monthly payments. When you sign up

your pet with a broad range of services at an exceptional value to you.

for a PAW Plan, you know what you are expected to pay every

WHAT IS A PAW PLAN? A PAW Plan, or Pet Annual Wellness Plan, is a plan designed to provide a broad range of services during each stage of your pet’s life, and include wellness exams, vaccines, early screening diagnostics, parasite screenings, and much more. PAW Plans help

month, and therefore can plan your pet’s care in your budget.

On top of the care and cost benefits, it also allows for a stronger relationship with your veterinarian. Stronger relationships lead to easier personalized and individual care that may otherwise not exist without the familiarity between pet and vet.

give your pet the best care at an affordable cost – plus you can spread the cost of care over time. In addition, you will receive

You should never have to sacrifice quality of care for cost when it

discounts on professional services outside of your selected

comes to your pet. For more information regarding PAW Plans

coverage level plan. With a variety of plans to fit each individual

and how they can help your four-legged family, call Kentuckiana

pet’s needs, there is an option for everyone.

Animal Clinic at (270) 215-4348, or stop in for a visit.

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GET READY TO ROMP

BY DANNY MAY

Preparations are underway for the 12th annual ROMP: Roots and Branches of Bluegrass music festival June 24-27 at Yellow Creek Park.

As always, this

year’s lineup is a beautifully crafted mix of traditional artists, up-and-comers, regional favorites, and seasoned national touring acts. Just to give Owensboro Living readers a sampling of the broad spectrum of talent to expect at this year’s festival, here are a few artists to really be excited about:

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PUNCH BROTHERS

American Songwriter Magazine called the Punch

PHOTO BY ADAM PARIS

Brothers “A 21st century version of the Bluegrass Boys.”

album, fans should be very excited about this year’s performance.

Lead by mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile (formerly

DEL MCCOURY

of Nickel Creek), Punch Brothers are now touring

in support of their newest album, The Phosphorescent

inductee in the International Bluegrass Hall of Fame,

Blues (Nonesuch Records) as they make their fourth

a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and a recipient of

appearance at ROMP.

the a lifetime achievement award from the National

Punch Brothers are extremely popular at many

Endowment for the Arts in the field of folk and

festivals because of their live performances. “Their live

traditional arts, Del McCoury is a living legend.

shows cultivate a sense of connectedness between the

Throughout his career, he has won 31 International

band and the crowd, especially in festival settings,” says

Bluegrass

Katie Keller, Director of Marketing at the International

“Entertainer of the Year” four consecutive times.

Bluegrass Music Museum. “That’s the beauty of the

Punch Brothers.”

Since their first performance at

was actually rained out, but that didn’t stop him from

ROMP in 2011, the band has consistently been one

playing an impromptu one and a half hour set with

of the most requested. With material from the new

his band, along with Marty Stuart’s band, under a

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As a member of Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys, an

Music

Association

awards,

including

Del’s first appearance at ROMP, back in 2007,

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tent by flashlight for about 100 lucky fans. He has since played several times and is always a crowd favorite. Last year’s performance was particularly meaningful as Del was awarded the IMBA Hall of Fame plaque onstage during ROMP.

“What I love about Del is he has been around since

the beginning of Bluegrass,” Keller said. “He has seen the

PUNCH BROTHERS

growth and progression of Bluegrass from where it started to where it is now, but he has stayed very traditional and kept his classic style. He’s a real class act.”

JENNY BETH WILLIS

After attending ROMP for many years as a fan,

Owensboro vocalist Jenny Beth Willis will be making her on-stage debut at this year’s festival. Jenny Beth has gained much recognition over the past several years by appearing at the Lanham Brother’s Jamboree, playing around town at various events, and most notably by making it to the final 20 girls on Season 12 of America Idol.

So what does a longtime fan think about being on

the other side of the stage? “I can’t wait! I’ve been going to ROMP a long time so it’s really exciting to be on the same stage with all these other awesome artists.” Jenny

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Beth says she’s been preparing a special set of songs for

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ROMP and has even invited a mandolin player to join her.

backed by a band of accomplished musicians from Alabama

“I love Bluegrass and I’m looking forward to playing mostly

and Tennessee. Don’t let her age fool you though (she’s only

traditional Bluegrass songs with just a few originals.”

13). She is certainly ready for the big stage!

After graduating from Owensboro Catholic High School,

been a student of Randy Lanham since she started playing

Jenny Beth just finished her freshman year at Trevecca

fiddle at age 7. In 2014, at only 12 years old, Annabelle won the

Nazarene University in Nashville, where she is majoring in

Galax Old Time Fiddler’s Contest in Galax, VA, the Smithville

music business. Her self-titled EP is available on Spotify,

Fiddler’s Contest in Smithville, TN, and the Loudon Fiddler’s

iTunes, and Amazon.

WBIO has been playing three of

Jamboree in Louden, TN. Recently, she has performed at the

Willis’s original singles, “I Miss You,” “Runaway Heart,” and

Lanham Brother’s Jamboree and made several TV appearances

“Country Feel.”

- including the Shotgun Red Show, Woodsongs on PBS, and Song

Annabelle has

of the Mountains on public television.

ANNABELLE WATTS

Philpot’s young fiddle phenomenon, Annabelle Grace

Watts, will be making her ROMP debut this year, as well,

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Watts recorded her first EP entitled Forward Motion at

The Rec Room in Nashville. It was released in February, has been played on several Bluegrass stations, and is available on iTunes and her website, www.annabellewatts.com.

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DEL MCCOURY

When asked about playing at ROMP, Annabelle said, “It’s a

“I’m excited to come back to ROMP because last year I

great opportunity and I’m glad I was asked to play. We’re going

felt so much inspiration and creativity being there,” Phoebe

to have a great time!” Annabelle describes her style of fiddle as

said. “ROMP is the perfect combination of a small, intimate

“happy, upbeat, and lots of fun” with hoedowns and waltzes.

feel with the fans, but it also has a big festival vibe with the big stage and such a large crowd.”

PHOEBE HUNT

Originally form Austin, Texas, Phoebe Hunt has come to

feel very “at-home” in Owensboro. That is due to a late night jam at The Miller House following her performance at ROMP last summer, which lead to a return performance at the Miller House while on tour in September. Hunt was also invited to be a part of the “Bluegrass in the Schools” program this past January, and will make her second appearance at ROMP this year.

This year, Phoebe is bringing a trio with her to debut a

new sound at ROMP, which she describes as “both loose and tight with freedom to roam musically, even though it’s stripped down to a cello, mandolin, and fiddle.” Complimented by Phoebe’s jazz-inspired vocal delivery, it ought to be a fun set to hear.

To read more about all the artists appearing at ROMP, visit www.rompfest.com.

WELBORNS

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ROMP 2015 WEDNESDAY

PIONEER VILLAGE - YELLOW CREEK PARK 5:00 Red Ember 6:15 Whiskey Bent Valley Boys 7:30 Caribou Mountain Collective 8:45 Kevin Dalton & The Tuesday Blooms 10:00 Andy Brasher Band

THURSDAY

YELLOW CREEK PARK - MAIN STAGE 4:00 Vickie Vaughn Band 5:15 Dismembered Tennesseans 6:30 Hass Kowert Tice 7:45 Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen 9:00 The Lone Bellow 10:30 Punch Brothers PIONEER VILLAGE - YELLOW CREEK PARK 12:00 Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen 1:30 Christopher Gold

FRIDAY

YELLOW CREEK PARK - MAIN STAGE 10:00 Kings Highway 11:00 Jenny Beth Willis Band 12:15 Dunderhead 1:30 Caribou Mountain Collective

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2:45 Luke Bulla 4:00 Phoebe Hunt 5:15 Balsam Range 6:30 The Fairfield Four & The McCrary Sisters 8:00 Del & Dawg 9:30 Sam Bush Band 11:00 Special Guest TBA

PIONEER VILLAGE - YELLOW CREEK PARK 12:30 The Giving Tree Band 2:00 Rollin in the Hay

SATURDAY

YELLOW CREEK PARK - MAIN STAGE 10:00 KY BlueGrass AllStars 10:45 Annabelle Watts 11:45 Old Salt Union 1:00 10 String Symphony 2:15 The Lonely Heartstring Band 3:30 Grisman Leslie Hargreaves Smith 4:45 Billy Strings & Don Julin 6:00 Sierra Hull 7:15 Hot Rize 8:40 John Prine 10:30 Leftover Salmon PIONEER VILLAGE - YELLOW CREEK PARK 12:00 The Brothers Comatose 1:45 Old Salt Union

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BOB MANTOOTH FATHER FIGURE OF THE FIELD

BY ELIZABETH MUSTER

W

hen the Apollo Eagles baseball team scored five runs in the 6th inning to win against

Henderson County on Monday, April 27, it was Bob Mantooth’s 900th win as head baseball coach. According to the Lexington HeraldLeader, this milestone has only been reached by five other coaches in state history. But there was no celebration on the field or in the locker room. In fact, his players were completely unaware.

He

received

congratulatory

handshakes from his assistant coaches, and that was enough. Such is the humble manner of Coach Bob Mantooth.

In his thirty-two years as head coach at

Apollo, Bob Mantooth has led the Eagles to ten regional titles. Obviously, Mantooth is an outstanding coach, but what these stats don’t show is that he is a true father figure both on and off the field. Ask anyone who knows

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him, however, and he or she will not comment on Bob’s numbers, but rather on his integrity. Richie Stanley learned “honesty, selfperseverance, and character” during his five seasons playing under Coach Mantooth from 2004-2008. “The most important being character,” Stanley commented. “No one can bring that image to life like Coach Mantooth.”

One of the few people who did realize the relevance of the

900th win was Ryne Mantooth, the coach’s son and assistant coach.

Growing up, Ryne spent much of his time at baseball and basketball games and practices, as his father coached both. During high school, Ryne played on the team for five years. In 2003, Ryne was pitching when the Eagles won the regional title, a cherished memory for both father and son. Ryne went on to play college ball at Austin Peay and has coached with his father for six seasons. “Coaching with Dad is

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“Bob Mantooth’s legacy goes far beyond wins and losses. In my opinion, Bob’s success was a byproduct of his love for the game of baseball, for his passion for young people, and for his dedication to the community of Owensboro. His focus has always been on developing character in his players first, followed by developing great baseball players. Apollo High School and countless student athletes have been blessed by Bob Mantooth’s career.”

Greg Baughn

FORMER APOLLO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT-ATHLETE AND COACH

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“Bob and I have been friends and brothers in Christ for some 30 years. He is truly an outstanding person, educator, and coach. During my tenure at Apollo, I always noticed that Bob placed the students at Apollo High School first, whether supporting them in the classroom or attending the various extracurricular activities the school offers.

a true joy,” he said. “Both of us share a great passion

Bob is the type of coach parents wish for their child to play for. My wife and I were lucky enough to have our son Wesley play for Bob. Bob teaches more than the X’s and O’s of the game. One can look at the playing facilities and immediately notice the pride Bob has in the program. And this pride manifests itself in the student athletes who play baseball at Apollo High School throughout their careers and into adulthood.”

Mantooth family. Bob started playing at age seven

Tom Purcell

for the game of baseball and developing young men on and off of the baseball field. To get to do that together is really enjoyable. I just hope that he enjoys it as much as I do.”

Baseball has always been a family tradition for the

for the newly-formed Valley Sports Little League; his father was the manager. “We played on an all-dirt field,” Bob reminisced. “I remember anticipating the next game. It seemed the day would never get there. I have loved baseball ever since.” In college, he played at Murray State under John Reagan. He credits Coach Reagan with leading by example, and “playing the game the right way – hard and aggressively, while being

RETIRED AHS PRINCIPAL

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BOB MAN TOOT H WITH BRAD WILK ERSO N AND RYNE MAN TOOT H

APOL LO HIGH SCHO OL ALUM NI GAM E

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a good sport.” Bob Mantooth has undoubtedly followed in his mentor’s footsteps.

Mantooth’s daughter, Kara, also loves baseball and

still attends local games, as well as professional games while she travels for work. The Mantooth baseball tradition is being carried on by Ryne’s daughter, Tatum, who can be seen at the ball field wearing the same small jersey her father wore as a young spectator. When asked how he has managed to balance teaching, coaching and raising a family for thirty-nine years (he coached Webster County for his first seven), Bob credits the support of his wife, Sheree. “She believes as much as I do that this is what we are supposed to be doing with our lives.”

As Bob Mantooth’s 39th season comes to a close, he

is often asked how much longer he will teach and coach.

“I feel I will know when my time is up,” he said. And for this father figure on and off the field, that time hasn’t come yet.

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“I have had the honor of knowing Coach Mantooth since 1987 when I was a 9th grader at Apollo. I have known him as a teacher, coach, mentor and co-worker. Coach has always been a gentleman. As a PE teacher, he was kind and tender-hearted towards the students. As a coach, he is a competitor and one that makes his players pay attention to the details. When I played basketball for him, I remember him teaching me about the appropriate ways to be dressed and the proper and improper ways of wearing a uniform. He was very concerned about teaching boys the proper way to become young men. As a mentor, I had the opportunity to coach and teach alongside of him. I have gained great insight and advice from him over the years. A very fine man. One I am proud to know. One I am proud to call a friend. One I am glad works with Apollo.”

Keith Johnson

APOLLO ASSISTANT BASKETBALL COACH FROM 1995-2004

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BOB MANTOOTH AND FAMILY

BOB MANTOOTH AND RYNE MANTOOTH

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g

It’s difficult to imagine that most cities the size of Owensboro possess the number of quality businesses we’re so fortunate to have. From restaurants to barber shops, photographers to parks, Owensboro is blessed with a wide variety of outstanding establishments. But what makes a great business? For one, they have to have that special something that keeps their customers coming back. With that in mind, we set out to find your favorites in the

g

inaugural “Best Of Owensboro Living.” Over 2,000 people voted online.

Check out the winners to see if your favorites made the list!

best furniture store: Mudd’s furniture

Founded in 1951, Mudd’s is known for quality furniture and dependable delivery within a 50 mile radius. Their 25,000 sq ft showroom (521 E 4th St) displays a wide variety of living room, bedroom, and dining room furniture.

best golf course: hillcrest

There’s a reason Hillcrest has been all over the news lately - a lot of people care about it! Over 12,000 rounds of golf have been played at Hillcrest so far this year.

RC best coffee

the creme coffee house

At the Crème Coffee House, we pride ourselves on serving each customer with a wonderful cup of coffee and a side of

staff pick!

best 5k race

genuine care for everyone who walks through our door. For over a year, our motto has been “Share the Love,” and it seems that all of you have received the message. Come in anytime

colorblast 5k

for a delicious cup of coffee, delectable latte, or scrumptious

The ColorBlast 5K recognizes the positive impact individuals with special needs have on our lives! www.colorblast5k.org

caring staff have helped us accomplish the honor of being

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dessert, and find out why our relaxing atmosphere and kind, Owensboro’s #1 coffee house. www.OwensboroLiving.com

best gym Owensboro health healthpark More than a gym, the Healthpark is a comprehensive wellness center with nurses, dietitians, certified personal trainers, fitness instructors, therapists, counselors, licensed massage therapists, and a chapel.

r best sandwich

Great Harvest Bread Co.

C

oming to Owensboro in mid-June - everybody who just

voted Great Harvest the “Best Sandwiches in Owensboro”

will now have a new location to sit and enjoy them! That’s right – Great Harvest Bread Co. is opening a brand new cafébakery on the east side of Owensboro.

In addition to their scratch-made breads and goodies made

with fresh, stone-ground flour milled here in Owensboro,

best home builder jagoe homes

In 70 years of homebuilding, Jagoe Homes has built homes in many neighborhoods including the Heartlands, Lake Forest, Deer Valley and Whispering Meadows.

best salad

briarpatch Since 1971, the Briarpatch Restaurant (2760 Veach Road) has been serving Owensboro great steaks in a great atmosphere. But they’re also known for a great soup and salad bar, which is prepared fresh every day, a la carte style, with bread brought right to your table.

Great Harvest makes the only sandwiches where the outside is as good as the inside. That’s why you voted them the “Best of Owensboro”!

With seating for 70 inside and 15 outside, it’s a great place for you to sit and enjoy the best sandwiches in town, served open to close. New offerings will include freshly baked breakfast biscuits, made-to-order salads and full-service Peet’s coffees & teas, including Cappuccinos, Lattes, Caramel Macchiato, Mocha, Javiva blended coffee (think iced-dessert) and fruit smoothies.

All your favorite sandwiches are here, including their “Locally World Famous” Chicken Salad Sandwich (try it toasted on Cranberry Orange Bread) and their Baja Chipotle Turkey on toasted San Francisco Sourdough or Sun-Dried Tomato Swiss Bread.

Get ’em while they’re hot! Hot sandwiches options will feature their very own Muffuletta New Orleans classic with ham, pepperoni, salami and house-made olive tapenade on Focaccia Bread, and their best-selling Turkey Pepper Jack Panini.

You can’t find anything else like it around Owensboro!

You voted it the best, and now it’s getting even better!

Don’t you love when that happens? Stop by the new Café at Lake Forest Town Center (off Hwy. 54) or the original bakery at the corner of Frederica St. and Byers Ave. www.OwensboroLiving.com

best barber shop

headquarters barber shop That old time barber shop feel with neighborhood charm and a

j friendly, caring staff makes for lots of repeat customers.

(2674 Frederica St.)

staff pick!

best wooded trails rudy mines trails

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best car dealership

SL best

BBQ

don moore

It’s that voice. It’s the smile. It’s the new commercials and slogans every time you turn on a TV or radio. And of course, everyone’s favorite, “It’s hot Don!”

best steak

texas roadhouse Hand cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, fresh salads, ice cold beer, baked potatoes, and peanuts on the floor – that’s why they call it a roadhouse. And that’s why Owensboro loves it so much. Located at 943 Moseley Rd.

old hickory barbecue

Thank you to everyone who voted for us! We are very honored to receive the award for “Best BBQ”. The staff at Old Hickory works so hard every day to serve the best BBQ we can produce. Our loyal customers are the greatest part of our business. We appreciate your continued support, and hope to see you soon.

best daycare

K.B.’s kid’s zone When parents drop their kids off at KB’s, they can have peace of mind knowing their child will be treated with genuine love and concern.

staff pick!

best bike mechanic

ryan clark at legends Almost the entire staff of Tanner+West (parent company of Owensboro Living magazine) loves to ride bikes. And we all agree that Ryan gets us in the gear we need for a safe and fast ride on the road or on the trail.

best jeweler

nick t. arnold Family owned and operated, NTA (3630 Frederica Street) has amassed a very loyal following of customers over the years.

Not only do they sell a wide selection of fine jewelry, including Pandora, they also engrave and repair in-house, with a clock shop.

k staff pick!

best roller coaster

thunderbird at holiday world

Maybe it’s not in Owensboro but we still claim Holiday World as one of our own and the Thunderbird is amazing.

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best burger best place for dance

Johnson’s dance studio Johnson’s Dance Studio (2705 Breckenridge St.) offers dance for everyone: jazz, tap, ballet, modern, hip hop, adult classes, and of course children’s classes for ages 3 and up.

best photographer

captured moments photography Jason and Kate Higdon have found a niche in senior photos and family photography. Since opening in 2004, they have steadily grown into the largest studio in Owensboro/Daviess County and you can usually spot their photos on the cover of Owensboro Parent magazine (801 Old Hartford Rd).

best musician or band andy brasher

Andy is a true artist, writing and performing both as a solo act and as part of Brasher/Bogue. He’s lived the Nashville scene and toured across the country, but he still has a standing open mic night at the Boiler Room. www.OwensboroLiving.com

big dipper

Known for ol’ fashioned burgers and shakes, Big Dipper has been at its original location (2820 W. Parrish Ave) for over 50 years. According to our readers, they’re still Owensboro’s favorite.

best consignment shop patty’s resale

When it comes to recycling your style, Patti’s Resale has been one of Owensboro’s premier consignment shops for 44 years.

Located at 605 Park Plaza Drive, Patti’s accepts women’s clothing, children’s fashion, furniture, and prom dresses.

best author

keith lawrence The man, the myth, and the legend. He makes us laugh. He makes us think.

Keith speaks the truth when no one else will say it. He’s just the best.

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best park & best place for family fun

;

;

smothers park

It stretches five city blocks and covers five acres of land, including a splash park, concession stand, three signature fountains, 37 swings overlooking the river, and the three-story “Lazy Dayz” playground, which has 20 slides. That’s enough to keep any family busy.

best pizza fetta specialty pizza & spirits There are many choices for pizza in Owensboro, but Fetta’s niche is specialty pizza ordered by the slice. Since hitting the downtown scene in 2014, Fetta is capitalizing on increased foot traffic by being just a block away from Smother’s Park (118 St. Ann St). They even have a walk up window.

best place to get a mani/pedi Pro Nails

Pro Nails and Spa (3601 Frederica, Suite #7) offers full service nail care, including manicures and pedicures. Sandy and Joey get festive and creative with nail styles and designs.

best preschool

Settle preschool Parents appreciate the loving, Christian environment that Settle Preschool offers for 3 year-olds through Prekindergarten. Located at Settle Memorial United Methodist Church (202 East 4th Street).

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best local artist aaron kizer

“Performance artist.” “Speed painter.” Whatever you call him, Aaron Kizer is always evolving and always pushing his art to the next level, recently expanding KizerArts into promoting comedy and other live performances.

best bank us bank

They may be headquartered in Minneapolis, but US Bank’s footprint in Owensboro is huge. It seems every time you turn a corner there’s a US Bank branch, which combined with the Home Mortgage Center makes US Bank one of Owensboro’s largest employers. www.OwensboroLiving.com

S4 best bakery rolling pin

Hungry for a donut? Well, if you’re in Owensboro, Rolling Pin Pastry Shop is the place to go. Voted Owensboro’s favorite bakery in 2015’s Best of Owensboro Living contest, the Rolling Pin has been consistently making the City’s favorite donuts since 1947.

Today, after three generations of producing

pastries, owners Roger and Kathy Farmer continue to proudly churn out their famous donuts.

Rolling Pin offers over 25 delicious varieties, which they

make fresh every day. Whether you prefer glazed, jelly-filled, or blueberry cake, it’s hard to leave the shop without at least

best college

kentucky wesleyan college With 153 years of tradition, Owensboro has literally grown around Wesleyan. Which makes sense; it’s a beautiful campus.

With dorm renovations underway and several significant donor contributions, the future looks bright for Kentucky Wesleyan.

a dozen. Oh, and did I mention the chocolate long johns?

You can search far and wide and never find a donut quite like this one. So what sets their version of this tasty treat apart?

Without revealing any secrets, Rolling Pin combines a tried and true donut recipe with an out-of-this-world icing. The result is a chocolate long john that’s second to none.

At the Rolling Pin, their motto is: “It’s all about the donuts.”

And while the donuts bring the customers in the door, Rolling Pin’s friendly staff keeps them coming back. The smiling faces behind the counter always make their customers feel welcome, and many of their crew have been with the bakery for several years. Maybe that’s why so many of their customers feel like family.

For Roger and Kathy Farmer, it’s an honor that

Owensboro has supported their family business for so many years. Says Kathy, “We love being a part of the community and we don’t take it for granted. We’re humbled every time we hear someone say they’re home for a visit and had to stop by the Rolling Pin before they left town.” So whether you’re an out-of-towner with limited access to their famous donuts, or a Rolling Pin regular, the owners and crew at Rolling Pin Pastry Shop truly appreciate your business.

And don’t forget, Friday, June 5th is National Donut Day.

But then again, at the Rolling Pin, every day’s a donut day!

best mexican food Real hacienda

With two restaurants in convenient locations (Frederica & Southtown, and Highland Pointe on 54) Real Hacienda is Owensboro’s most popular spot for Mexican because of exceptional service, great food, a warm atmosphere with recipes that have been carried on through the Ortiz family for generations.

best financial advisor Edward jones

With 7 million clients, Edward Jones is one of the largest investment firms in the US. Yet, each office has a small, hometown feel because they take a personal approach with each and every client. Owensboroans like that sort of thing.

best hair salon swank salon

Swank Salon at 1210 E Byers Ave. has the latest in hair care products, creative cuts, color & highlights, perms & professional straightening, certified & licensed massage therapists, skin care products, makeup and more.

best place to watch the big game buffalo wild wings Bdubs. Enough said. www.OwensboroLiving.com

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best boutique

peacocks & pearls

Peacocks and Pearls has been in business less than two years in Owensboro, but it didn’t take long for this boutique to increase in size and popularity. This year, our readers voted them as the Best Boutique in 2015’s Best Of Owensboro Living. Peacocks and Pearls has also doubled in size, moving to a new location at Lake Forest Town Center, and increasing their store from 1,000 to 2,100 square feet.

With such high demand for the clothing and accessories at the boutique, the move made perfect sense for owner Deanna Johnson.

“There’s only a certain amount of time you can make someone wait for a dressing room,” Deanna said. And the new location addresses that need, among others, by offering 5 fitting rooms, as opposed to the two they had at the former store. Peacocks and Pearls has also added 3 new employees and some part-time summer help to make sure the customer always has someone available.

In addition to increasing the size of the store, Peacocks and Pearls has also expanded their product. Whereas the old store sold 4 or 5 styles of shoes, Peacocks and Pearls now offers about 30 styles of shoes per season, with 6 or 7 of those being kids’ sizes. The boutique has also begun selling a selection of kids’ lines. This presented another area of need in the store where Deanna saw room for growth.

“Teenage girls would come in and want to buy, and there wasn’t an option for them. There’s a demand for these clothes because a lot of girls are at an in-between stage. They want to look more mature than the children’s section at the department store, but the smallest women’s sizes don’t yet fit,” Deanna said. Peacocks and Pearls’ new selections bridge that gap by offering sizes from 7 through 14, or what Deanna calls a “tween line.”

Other new offerings at Peacocks and Pearls include extended sizes, from XL to 3X, to better accommodate their customers. The store has also expanded its jewelry and accessories area, and is proud to now carry the Dex line of denim. Just like at the former 64 OWENSBORO LIVING

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location, Peacocks and Pearls will continue to offer the latest styles at affordable price points for their customers. But they’ve also expanded their inventory to include “special event” dresses. These lines will cater to everyone from those attending a black tie event to mothers of the bride. Peacocks and Pearls can even outfit an entire party of bridesmaids for that special day, with custom bridesmaids’ dresses in 15-17 styles that can be ordered and delivered in less than a week.

They are Owensboro’s exclusive retailers for Camilyn Beth, which means you can be sure that you’re the only person at your next event wearing the dress you selected. As part of their dedication to customer service, Peacocks and Pearls keeps a registry of Camilyn Beth dresses purchased for a particular event so that your style will be exclusively yours.

With more space and a new location, Peacocks and Pearls has also begun offering after hours shopping experiences. Ladies can bring in their men after regular hours to enjoy a drink and a night of shopping with a more casual atmosphere. Currently, these events are being offered once a month, with a view to expanding to twice a month in the near future.

Peacocks and Pearls has even expanded beyond the traditional storefront. Maybe you were home visiting from college and a particular item caught your eye, but you didn’t have time to make it back into the store. Now you can see those same items online and order by calling or sending them a Facebook message. Peacocks and Pearls posts 1015 photos each weekday to Facebook and Instagram of items available for order.

So whether you plan to stop by the shop at 4431 Springhill Dr., Suite B, or visit them online at Facebook (facebook. com/PeacocksAndPearls) and Instagram (instagram.com/ peacocksandpearls), you’re sure to find something new.

www.OwensboroLiving.com

staff pick!

best outdoor expert obbie todd

Obbie Todd might be a retired educator, but his passion for teaching still lives on in his role as Owensboro’s best outdoor enthusiast.

Obbie can be found leading groups on guided nature walks. His nature walks are full of insights into the local ecology and are peppered with hilarious stories that’ll make the hardest nut crack a smile. He says that being in nature stimulates his faith and deepens his appreciation for God’s incredible handiwork.

If you’re interested in a guided nature tour through the spring flowers at Yellow Creek Park or the beautiful fall trees at Ben Hawes State Park, please contact Obbie at 270-685-1531. (groups preferred)

best local festival barbecue festival 10 tons of mutton + 1,500 gallons of burgoo + 5,000 chickens = 2 days of barbecue heaven

; best pet grooming pet smart

The caring professionals at PetSmart Grooming Salons (5241 Frederica St) are available seven days a week and provide an array of services to ensure your pet is happy, healthy and looks great.

best place to get crafty hobby lobby

Framing, florals, scrapbooking supplies, needle art, paper crafting, beads and jewelry making, art supplies, party decorations, on and on and on…

best carpet cleaner stanley steamer

Carpet stains are the worst! Stanley Steamer can handle it.

Their professional deep cleaning services extend beyond carpet cleaning to furniture cleaning, tile and grout, hardwood, air ducts, and water restoration.

best realty group

castlen realtors The Castlens have been realtors in Owensboro for 40 years. In the past few years, Steve Castlen Realtors (2839 New Hartford Rd) has captured approximately one-third of all the real estate listed and sold through the Owensboro Multiple Listing Service.

best ice cream/frozen yogurt Orange leaf

At Orange Leaf (5035 Frederica St), you can be the “master of your own dessert” by choosing your own combinations from a full display of toppings. Plus it’s fun to pick your favorite flavor from a constantly rotating mix of traditional favorites and seasonal offerings.

best florist

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welborn’s florist

With 100% customer satisfaction guaranteed, Welborn’s (920 E. 4th Street) is an all-occasion flower shop offering floral arrangements, flower delivery, a gift shop, and event rentals. www.OwensboroLiving.com

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

THE BAKER’S RACK

THE BEST OF OWENSBORO

Our Friends!

This month’s Owensboro Living features “The Best of Owensboro” in lots of categories. It’s a chance to examine and appreciate the products, services and businesses our community has to offer. The Best of Owensboro is very good, and that opinion is validated by all of the out-of-town customers that compliment Owensboro when they enter our store.

I believe the best part of Owensboro is our sense of community, the close ties we have with each other, and the relationships we have and create with one another. The sense of community is developed in lots of areas like churches, participant and spectator sports and community events like Friday After 5 and Owensboro Symphony Orchestra concerts. The closest ties are created closer to home, when we invite others into our personal lives. Often, that is when great memories are created and friendships are strengthened.

A good customer of The Bakers Rack explained to us recently how much she loves entertaining and having friends to visit her house.

“Entertaining is fun for me. I love the process of making people feel welcome and special.” She wondered how many others get to enjoy that same feeling, when home entertaining is often so casual in modern times. “It’s a thrill when guests notice the attention to details,” she continued, “They thank me for taking the time to prepare the house, www.OwensboroLiving.com

but really, they appreciate someone caring about them.”

Let me say that gracious entertaining is not difficult, and any extra thought and effort pays off in how your guests feel. Creating a memorable atmosphere can be as simple as dining outdoors, or around a themed table, or by a great conversation about a common interest. All those can be planned in advance. Think ahead, and avoid the last-minute rush.

Many of our gatherings are either centered around meals, or have food accessible at least part of the time. Serving your meals with quality bowls, utensils and trays is an easy way of adding interest and a level of care to your occasion. Use either your china or everyday dinnerware. Today’s dinnerware is dishwasher safe, so it is just as easy as paper plates!

The Bakers Rack and other Owensboro stores have all the products you need to create a memorable occasion. We can offer advice on what to use, and our Gathering of Friends books are stepby-step guides on how to create a menu and look for nearly any occasion.

The experiences shared with people are the threads woven to form the tapestries of our lives.

Take time to enjoy The Best of Owensboro - the friends we have here!

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THE

DISH

T-BONE STEAKS WITH DAD’S STEAK RUB Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4 4 Omaha Steaks T-Bone Steaks 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Dad’s Steak Rub (see recipe) Thaw steaks overnight in refrigerator or quick thaw by placing sealed steaks in sink with water for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Prepare rub recipe.

Grill up a memorable

FATHER’S DAY Give dad what he deserves this Father’s Day - steaks sizzling on the grill and a flavorful gathering shared with family and friends.

This year, give him something he can really sink his teeth into - savory and robust T-Bone steaks. The T-Bone is a thick cut to give you more bone-in strip and tender Filet Mignon for even the heartiest of appetites.

This recipe for T-Bone Steaks with Dad’s Steak Rub features grainfed cuts from Omaha Steaks, aged to perfection and flash-frozen to capture freshness and flavor. Can’t be there to grill up his special gift in person? Omaha Steaks make the perfect gift, so you can confidently ship them directly to your favorite fellow.

For more ways to honor your dad this Father’s Day, visit www. omahasteaks.com.

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Heat grill on medium. Blot dry steaks with clean paper towel then brush each side with cooking oil.

Generously season both sides of steaks with rub.

Grill steaks to desired doneness. For medium rare steak, grill for about 8 minutes on first side and 6-7 minutes on second side.

DAD’S STEAK RUB Yield: 1/2 cup

4 tablespoons coarse sea salt or kosher salt 1 tablespoon coarse ground black pepper 1 tablespoon coarse dehydrated onion flakes 1/2 tablespoon coarse dehydrated garlic 1/2 tablespoon crushed red pepper 1 teaspoon whole dill seed 1 teaspoon dried whole thyme 1 teaspoon whole cumin (toasted and

crushed coarse) 1 teaspoon whole coriander (toasted and

crushed coarse) Combine all and mix well. Store in airtight container or zip lock bag for up to 6 months.

Note: To prepare cumin and coriander, toast by placing in dry pan over medium heat, shaking pan about 2-3 minutes until seasonings start to brown. Crush using bottom of pan on cutting board or with mortar and pestle. spoonful of guacamole, tablespoon of salsa and few pieces of remaining diced watermelon. www.OwensboroLiving.com

Easy treats for the

of 4TH JULY

Everyone will be bringing something to the 4th of July picnic, but you can bring the grand finale. Each of these tasty sweet treats captures the flair of the 4th without the fuss. In just a little time, you can add patriotic color and fun flavor to classics like cupcakes, ice cream cones and cookies.

DIPPED ICE CREAM CONES Yield: 12 ice cream cones 1

bag (12 ounces) Bright White Candy Melts Candy Sugar ice cream cones Jimmies 6-Mix Sprinkle Assortment Rainbow Jimmies

Melt candy in microwave safe bowl. Dip cones about 1 inch deep around opening of cone. Cut small hole in tip of bag and drizzle melted candy 1 inch deep around opening of cone. Tap cone lightly to smooth, and sprinkle with jimmies. Position cone in cone rack.

Let chill, about 10-15 minutes. Add ice cream scoops at party and serve in cone rack.

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Dipped Ice Cream Cones: Add color and crunch to your cones with a dip in red, white or blue melted Candy Melts candy and a variety of patriotic sprinkles. The Cone Cakes baking rack holds the cones for drying and serving.

Red, White and Blue Swirled Cupcakes: Everyone loves picnic treats they can grab and eat, and these July 4th cupcakes also bring pyrotechnics to the plate. Each is topped with an explosive three-color swirl of icing, easily created with the Color Swirl Three-Color Coupler.

S’mores Crispy Cereal Treats: These crunchy cereal bars pack the flavor of traditional s’mores while being much neater to eat.

The marshmallow, cereal and candy mixture is laced with warm cinnamon graham and creamy vanilla custard flavors using Treatology Flavor concentrates.

Creamy Coconut Cookie Flag: Give the day a flag-waving finish with red, white and blue royal iced cookies that hold up to the heat using the Color Right(tm) Performance Color System. The tropical taste combination of toasted coconut and creamy vanilla is just right for summer.

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RED, WHITE & BLUE SWIRLED CUPCAKES Yield: 12 cupcakes

1

Favorite cupcake recipe or mix 4.5-pound tub White Ready-To-Use Decorator Icing Color Right Performance Color System Icing Colors: Red (formula 186): 2 cups icing + 40 R White: Reserve 2 cups icing Deep Blue (formula 647): 2 cups icing + 26 B + 8 R + 4 P

Bake cupcakes according to package directions in red, white and blue standard baking cups.

Tint icing following color formulas above. Prepare Color Swirl 3-Color Coupler according to package directions, filling one decorating bag each with red, white and blue icing and fitting with tip 1M. Pipe a swirl on each cooled cupcake top.

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S’MORES CRISPY CEREAL TREATS Yield: 20 servings

6 tablespoons butter 1 bag (16 ounces) regular-sized marshmallows 1/4 teaspoon Warm Cinnamon Graham Treatology Flavor 10 drops Creamy Vanilla Custard Treatology Flavor 1/4 teaspoon salt 10 cups crisped rice cereal 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows, divided 1 1/4 cups Light Cocoa Candy Melts candy, divided

Prepare 13-by-9-inch baking pan with vegetable spray.

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In very large saucepan, melt butter over medium high heat until it smells nutty and browns slightly. Reduce heat to medium low; stir in regular marshmallows, warm cinnamon graham and creamy vanilla custard flavors, and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.

Remove from heat; stir in cereal, 3 cups mini marshmallows and 3/4 cup light cocoa candy. Press into prepared pan. Sprinkle with remaining mini marshmallows and press lightly to adhere.

In small microwave-safe bowl, microwave remaining 1/2 cup candy on 50 percent power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until candy is almost melted. Stir thoroughly until smooth and drizzle over treats. Let cool completely.

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THE

SCENE

FAMILY

MARKET DAYS

June 6-7 | Preservation Station Preservation Station Market and Event Center Market Days are held the first full weekend of every month, Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon – 5 p.m. with over 80 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and customized items, live music, and food. Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Highway 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www.visitpreservationstation. com, or find us on Facebook.

OWENSBORO FARMER’S MARKET

6:30 a.m. – Noon Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday | Owensboro Christian Church 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, Pleasant Valley Road.

FAMILY FARM DAY AT THE FARMERS’ MARKET

June 6 | Owensboro Christian Church Looking to take a fabulous day-trip to learn where your food comes from? Even take some home? Welcome to the 1st Annual Family Farm Day (FFD) at the Farmers’ Market.

Catch the buzz about local food and experience real farm experiences. Local farm vendors look forward to welcoming you for a hands-on awareness and educational day about agriculture. Sample bountiful farm-fresh products. Climb aboard a tractor, and enjoy the live entertainment by Chris & Ryan Hayden. Come out with the family, visit friends, and experience the day and the market while meeting the farmers.

LOCAL HERO DAY AT THE FARMERS’ MARKET

June 13 | Owensboro Christian Church Join us for a patriotic day of fun and exploration of military, rescue, police, and fire equipment! Children and adults can explore the equipment and ask our Local Heroes questions.

Families can enjoy the day by climbing aboard a fire truck provided by the Owensboro Fire Department, exploring the Hummers and Dare car presented by the Daviess County Sherriff Department, or watch the Police Canine Team in Action. This event will be filled with everything used to help make you safe in case of a fire or emergency. Bring the family out and experience the market, shop for local food, listen to live entertainment by Chuck & Alyssa, watch Pure Barre in action, and visit with the community and our Local Heroes.

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EAT LOCAL FOOD FEST AT FARMERS’ MARKET

June 20 | Owensboro Christian Church This will be a showcase of farmers and local food. Enjoy sampling all the fresh local food while mingling with friends and relaxing to the local entertainment of Heath & Molly! Festivalgoers can enjoy the morning learning about the benefits of sustainably grown and produced food, shopping the market, eating delicious local food, participating in the fun, and watching Edge Body Boot Camp in action! “Healthy Local Food for All”

HEALTH & WELLNESS FAMILY FEST AT FARMERS’ MARKET

June 27 | Owensboro Christian Church Mark your calendar to attend the 1st Annual Health and Wellness Day at the Farmers’ Market. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the activities and learn about health, wellness and local food. This is an event designed to help you learn about ways to enhance your family’s nutrition, wellness, and physical fitness. There will be exciting and interactive activities throughout the market. Stop by and see our special guests, Gene’s Health Food Store and KORT Physical Therapy. Visit with the vendors and learn where your food comes from and how it is grown. Stop by the Owensboro Community College Nursing Program and test your blood pressure and get a free health screening.

Live entertainment by Andy Brasher .

WHEN GOOD MEN DO NOTHING

June 6, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Owensboro Convention Center Lt. Colonel Dave Grossman in a very eye opening & entertaining way, will be presenting his “Bullet Proof Mind” series. It is essential for every American to know and understand what he will be sharing. Husbands – Wives – Grandparents – Moms – Dads invest in the safety of your loved ones. Buy your tickets now for this one-of-a-kind seminar. I guarantee you will be glad you did! To purchase tickets & for more information about this event, visit www.libertydogcamp.com.

LE VIAN ONE DAY ONLY EVENT!

June 4, 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Nick T. Arnold Jewelers A spectacular one day event to expore the newest trendsetting looks and discover the Legend of Le Vian. Over 950 items will be in store during this event. Special pricing is available including large percentage discounts!

Check out the Nick T. Arnold Jewelers facebook page for more information. www.OwensboroLiving.com

ARTS

KIDS

TWO PRESENTS PINOCCHIO

OPEN BOUNCE NIGHTS

June 12 | The Empress Theatre Pinocchio is one the of the most treasured childhood stories ever written. A story of how Geppato, a poor wood carver, made a marionette from a piece of wood that he was given. Pinocchio learns and grows through this story… and learns what it is to become a real boy.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays | U-Bounce The perfect party place for kids. Amazing inflatables in an unbelievably cool bounce stadium. Private, clean and climate controlled. All children must wear socks. $7 per child, children under 2 are free, unless they are the only child, adults always free; On Toddler Tuesday, children 5

LANHAM BROTHERS JAMBOREE

June 13 7 – 9 p.m. | Diamond Lake Resort Good Time Theatre Featuring special guests Jenny Beth Willis, Kings Highway, and The Wills Family!

This family-fun and interactive show will feature Bluegrass, Country, Clogging and Comedy. Showtime is 7 – 9 p.m. The Jamboree will be held in the Good Time Theater at Diamond Lake Resort. Tickets are general admission at the door and are $12 per person, $6 for ages 6-12 years and 5 years and under are free.

Discounts offered for groups of 15 or more people. Group tickets may be purchased by calling (270)314-4331. 7301 Hobbs Road www. lanhambrothersjamboree.com

ROMP: BLUEGRASS ROOTS AND BRANCHES FESTIVAL June 24 – 27 | Yellow Creek Park The 12th Annual ROMP Festival, celebrating the roots & branches of bluegrass, is hosted by the International Bluegrass Music Museum. For ticket information, visit www.rompfest.com or call (270)926-7891. This year, we’re also celebrating the Daviess County Bicentennial! There will be booths, challenge coins, and giveaways.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights bring concerts by some of the best performers in bluegrass to Yellow Creek Park. This year’s lineup includes John Prine, Sam Bush Band, Punch Brothers, and many, many more!

and under get in for $5 all night. Tuesday and Wednesday 5 – 8 p.m. and Friday 5 - 9 p.m.

(270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

FREE

STORYTIMES

Mondays & Thursdays | Daviess County Public Library Wee Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m. (270) 684-0211 or dcplibrary. org.

FREE

SATURDAY MORNING LIVE!

Mondays & Thursdays | Daviess County Public Library Visit the library every Saturday morning for self-guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness. 10 a.m. – noon (270) 684-0211 or dcplibrary.org.

OWENSBORO LIONS CLUB SOAPBOX DERBY June 13 | Ben Hawes Park Come on out to Ben Hawes Park and cheer on the Soap Box Derby racers!! For more race information you may

TWO PRESENTS THE YELLOW BOAT

June 19 – 21 | Trinity Centre The Yellow Boat is a glorious affirmation of a child’s life and the strength and courage of all children. This dramatization is based on the true story of David and Sonja Saar’s son, Benjamin, who was born with congenital hemophilia and died in 1987 at the age of 8 of AIDS-related complications. A uniquely-gifted visual artist, Benjamin’s buoyant imagination transformed his physical and emotional pain into a blaze of colors and shapes in his fanciful drawings and paintings. A Scandinavian folksong tells of three little boats: “One was blue, one was red and one was yellow as the sun. They sailed far out to sea. The blue one returned to the harbor.

The red one sailed home, too. But the yellow boat sailed up to the sun.” Benjamin always concluded his bedtime ritual by saying, “Mom, you can be the red boat or the blue boat, but I am the yellow boat.” Benjamin’s remarkable voyage continues to touch audiences around the world. Performances at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. on Sunday. www.OwensboroLiving.com

contact Chris Settles: 270-929-6853 (cssettles@dishmail.net) or Ron Leonard: 270-929-5515.

For information and schedule of events visit: www. owensborolions.com

TRUNNELL’S PEACH JAM FESTIVAL AND PAGEANTS July 11 | Trunnell’s Enjoy a homemade “peaches and pancake” breakfast from 9 a.m. to noon, and pick your own peaches from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your little ones to the Itsty-Bitsy Peach Pageant at 9:30 a.m., and stay for the Little Mr. & Miss Peach Pageant at 10:30 a.m. WBKR will be there to MC this fun-filled day, and the Family Fun Acre will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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THE

SCENE

DOWNTOWN FREE

BICENTENNIAL DISPLAY

Everyday in June | Owensboro Antique Mall Historical antique displays of Daviess County memorabilia.

FREE

FRIDAY AFTER 5

Every Friday from 6 – 10 p.m. | RiverPark Center Owensboro’s signature summer-long, free music festival will feature 50 bands, five venues, more than two dozen Class “PreUnions,” at Smothers Park and McConnell Plaza on the Owensboro Riverfront.

FREE

BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS

First and Third Tuesday of each month through October | Smothers Park Overlook The city of Owensboro brings back Bluegrass On The Banks, showcasing bluegrass music.

FREE

DOWNTOWN CRUISE IN

Every first Saturday from 4 – 9 p.m. | Downtown Owensboro Head Downtown every 1st Saturday from April to October and enjoy classic cars! Free admission and fun for the whole family!

FREE

LIVE ON THE BANKS

Every Saturday through the summer | Smothers Park Enjoy a mixture of live music every Saturday on the Overlook Stage in Smothers Park and RiverPark Center Gazebo.

OMG! CON

June 12-14 | Owensboro Convention Center The convention is organized and promoted by TAPS (Tri-State Anime Promotional Society). The annual event brings together anime and video games for a weekend of fun and excitement. There are special guests such as voice actors and artists; dealers, for getting those hardto-get items; and events like cosplay and video game tournaments.

Ticket prices are $45 until May 31, $50 at the door for a 3-day pass, or $25 for Friday, $30 for Saturday, and $20 for Sunday. For more information regarding OMG! CON 2015 visit www.OMGcon.com or contact TAPS Secretary Hooper at (270) 816-0012 or hooper@ omgcon.com,. Also, check out the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/omgcon.

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COMMUNITY

DAZZLING DAYLILIES - BALLOONS OVER THE GARDEN June 17-21 | Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens Remember seeing those magnificent hot air balloons floating through the skies of west Owensboro last summer? Well, they’re back this year as part of “2015 Dazzling Daylilies - Balloons over the Garden.” Hosted by the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, the festival, now in its sixth year, is The Garden’s premier summer event. If you’ve never visited The Garden, now’s certainly the time, as the festival offers something for everyone. Like The Garden itself, the festival evolves each year to pair new and exciting ideas with tried and true favorites.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere is The Garden’s rich history. As Susie Tyler, full-time volunteer at The Garden explained, “This is not your typical botanical garden. Whereas most begin from the grounds of an estate, Owensboro’s began from corn and soybean fields.” On land that formerly housed the Berry Farm, The Garden has steadily grown since its inception over 22 years ago. And to truly appreciate The Garden, it helps to know its past.

Ever noticed the grand white house on the west end of 2nd Street near Carter Road? Then you’ve seen WeatherBerry - the original farmhouse on the property that adjoins The Garden. Susie and her husband, Dr. Bill Tyler, purchased the farmhouse in 1990 and named it after a former owner, Henry Scott Berry.

Years before the Tylers converted the farmhouse into a bed and breakfast, Berry resided there in the early 1900s, and acted as the local weatherman by utilizing a weather station in his front yard - hence the name “WeatherBerry.”

Though the Tylers no longer operate their bed and breakfast at WeatherBerry, like Berry before them, their imprint on The Garden remains. Besides being a full-time volunteer at The Garden, Susie, along with Dr. Tyler, donated the original 7 acres on which The Garden sits. Their donation to the City only came with the stipulation that the land be used to house a botanical garden.

Since that time, The Garden has expanded to encompass 12 acres, with the most recent addition being a sought-after piece of frontage on 2nd Street.

For a property with such a rich history, it was a natural next step for The Garden to host an event as grand as Dazzling Daylilies - Balloons over the Garden.

With respect to where the idea for the festival originated, Susie exclaimed, “It was right under our noses!” In addition to the balloons, The Garden attracts guests from far and wide to marvel at their stunning array of daylilies. As part of the festival, The Garden hosts an annual daylily sale. According to Susie, The 76 OWENSBORO LIVING

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Garden is part of a larger reciprocal agreement program, whereby members of other botanical gardens around the country make it a point to visit The Garden to look, shop, and buy.

To accompany the celebration of the daylilies, the balloons were added to the festival a few years ago. The driving force behind that addition was the president of The Garden’s board of directors, Robert Smiley. Says Susie, “Robert, a key individual at U.S. Bank Home Mortgage, really made the festival fly!”

Now, in addition to U.S. Bank Home Mortgage, several other national companies sponsor the festival, along with loyal local sponsors such as Atmos and Kenergy.

Susie is also quick to point out that The Garden and the festival would not be so successful without the help of the 150 volunteers that contribute each year. She stresses that the Owensboro Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is another entity that’s integral to their success.

This year, Dazzling Daylilies - Balloons over the Garden has added children’s activities and events to broaden the scope of the festival, and introduce The Garden to an even wider audience. When you consider the food court, with offerings from local chefs, and events like tethered rides and inflatables, the festival truly offers something for everyone. And at only $2 for admission on the balloon activity days, it’s difficult to find a reason not to go.

For more information on the 2015 Dazzling Daylilies - Balloons over the Garden, contact The Garden at (270)852-8925, or visit them online at www. wkbg.org.

www.OwensboroLiving.com

When it’s happening: June 17-21 Cost: June 17 and 18 - Adults $5, Seniors $3, Youth $1, June 19 -21 -- $2 daily, under 2 free What to expect: June 17 at 11:30 - Walk & Talk lunch June 18 at 10:00am and 2:00pm - Garden Tours and Talks June 19 at 6:00pm – Balloonists arrive, full rides available with reservation June 20 at 5:30am and 6:00pm Full rides available with reservation 5:30am -- 9:30am, 6:30pm – 8:30pm Tethered rides available on a first come, first served basis 7:00am – 12:00pm – Annual Daylily sale 4:00-9:00pm - “Blooms, Balloons, Bar-B-Q & Bluegrass,” children’s activities from 4 – 6pm June 21 at 5:30am - Balloonists arrive, full rides available with reservation To find out more: www.wkbg.org Balloon Line for Reservations: (270) 993-1234 (270) 852-8925

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ACTIVE

HEART WALK - THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

June 6 | Smothers Park The largest voluntary health organization working to prevent, treat and defeat heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.

These diseases, the Nation’s No.1 and No.4 killers, claim more than 813,804 American lives per year. Thanks to all our walkers, donors and volunteers who have accepted the challenge to help fight heart disease and stroke. We cannot achieve our mission without each one of you! Smothers Park at 8 a.m.

WALK AROUND KENTUCKY FOR EPILEPSY

June 6 | Legion Park Walk Around Kentucky for Epilepsy is the largest fundraiser to raise awareness of epilepsy and funds for the Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana. Please help the Foundation to build on its education, advocacy, outreach and support services provided to children and adults living with seizures in Kentucky and southern Indiana by setting your team goal and recruiting powerful members to help you successfully reach your goal. A walk to raise funds and awareness for the Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana. Legion Park at 8 a.m.

LAKEWOOD VALLEY TRIATHLON

June 13 | Whitesville, KY Competitors swim a 1/2 mile in a lake, bike 15 miles over country roads and run 3 miles around the lake in Whitesville, KY, just 18 miles east of Owensboro. For more information, visit www. owensboroymca.org/triathlon/ or call 270-926-9622.

TRUNNELL’S SWEET CORN 5K EXTREME RUN/TOUGH WALK

July 25 | Trunnell’s Are you tough enough to run the farm? Test your mettle at this challenging course. Race registration is from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m., and the race begins at 8 a.m. Register online at doactivities.com/ trunnells5k. All proceeds benefit Mentor Kids Kentucky.

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FUN(DRAISER)

MOONLIGHT RIDE June 5 at 8 p.m. | McConnell Plaza

Boulevard.

What better way to spend a summer night than a bike ride,

This year, the Moonlight Ride has added rider waves

right? Well, the City of Owensboro is taking a simple bike

for the avid riders (15 - 20 mph pace) and casual riders (9

ride to the next level. Glow in the dark costumes, a dance

– 13 mph pace). This is definitely an event for the whole

party, prizes, and the best part…it’s all for charity.

family. Any children under the age of 16 must have a parent

On June 5, the City will present the second annual

or guardian riding with them. Officials ask that you keep

Moonlight Ride, benefitting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

in mind the minimum 9 – 13 mph pace for any children

The night will kick-off with a pre-ride party at the downtown

wanting to ride their own bike. Training wheels and tricycles

McConnell Plaza (next to the Owensboro Convention Center)

are not permitted, but approved bike trailers are always

from 8 to 9:30 p.m. This party will feature fun music, food

welcome. All riders are required to wear helmets and lights,

trucks, dancing, and contests for the best rider costume and

but are encouraged to go all out with glow decorations for the

best decorated bike. Local sponsors, Legends and Breck’s

contest!

Bicycle Shop, will have bike tune-ups, demo bikes, and the

latest biking accessories to showcase.

will directly benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Patients

Riders will begin at 10 p.m., escorted by the Owensboro

at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing

Police Department, through the 12.5-mile route, beginning

or food. The City of Owensboro is proud to present this fun

at the corner of 2nd Street and Locust, and making a large

community event that will directly benefit such a worthy

loop from Carter Road to Southtown Boulevard to J.R. Miller

cause.

www.OwensboroLiving.com

Registration is $25 ($35 onsite the night of the race) and

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EDITOR’S TOP PICKS FOR SUMMER ACTIVITIES

BY MELODY ANN WALLACE

Not only does Owensboro have the best restaurants and festivals around, it also has a wide array of summertime activities for adults and families to enjoy. In keeping with the best of what Owensboro has to offer, here are the Editor’s Top Picks for summer activities in our community.

BICENTENNIAL FIREWORKS What it is: Celebrate Daviess County’s 200th birthday with a uniquely combined city and county celebration on the riverfront.

Enjoy the beautiful fireworks display along with live music and special events.

When it’s happening: July 4, events begin at 6:00pm What to expect: View the fireworks from the beautiful Ohio Riverfront with music from the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra.

CONCERT ON THE LAWN

What it is: Owensboro Symphony Orchestra’s annual free concert held on the lawn at Kentucky Wesleyan College.

When it’s happening: August 22 at 7:00pm What to expect: Bring your favorite blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a performance of classical and modern music under the starlit sky.

Performances by the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra as well as The Stars Among Us, the winners of the OSO’s talent competition.

Cost: Free seating on the lawn or reserve a table of eight for $100

Gates open at 6 pm, followed by speeches, a Color Guard presentation, and fireworks accompanied by patriotic music at 9.

Cost: Free To find out more: (270) 687-8700 http://daviess200.org/event/bicentennial-fireworks/

BIG BLUE RIVERFRONT RELAY MARATHON What it is: A 26 lap race around downtown Owensboro. You and your team have 6 hours to complete the race! Run one lap and pass the baton or run 6 laps and pass the baton, it’s up to you.

When it’s happening: August 8 at 6:00pm What to expect: Come down early and set up your team area. Each team is permitted a 10 ft x 10 ft space along the course. Runners can tackle the course as a solo runner, a pair, or team of 3-4. Walkers are welcome.

Cost: Registration fees are $38 which include a 2015 Big Blue Relay race t-shirt, a great running experience through downtown Owensboro, and a unique finisher’s medal.

To find out more: http://theoso.com/ (270) 684-0661

OWENSBORO AIR SHOW

What it is: Get up close and personal with a variety of aircraft and their pilots, as well as enjoy a bird’s eye view of vintage war birds, military jets, and aerobatic demonstrations over the Ohio River.

When it’s happening: September 11 – 13 What to expect: Friday night 4:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. OwensboroDaviess County Regional Airport. Meet some of the pilots of these aircraft and experience a taste of the Owensboro Air Show. At sunset, a few performers will take to the sky to entertain the crowds with an evening display of performances that will conclude with fireworks.

Saturday and Sunday 1:00p.m. - 3:30p.m. Owensboro riverfront.

Make sure to pack your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a comfortable chair as you sit back and enjoy an amazing air performance over the riverfront and downtown. The highlight of this year’s show is the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

Cost: Friday evening - Admission is just $2.00 per person, children 10 and under are free, Saturday and Sunday – Admission is free

To find out more: http://www.40lbsledgehammer.com/big-blueTo find out more: owensboroairshow.com

relay/

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Editor’s Top Picks for Summer Activities

By Melody Ann Wallace Not only does Owensboro have the best restaurants and festivals around, it also has a wide array of summertime activities for adults and families to enjoy. In keeping with the best of what Owensboro has to offer, here are the Editor’s Top Picks for summer activities in our community.

2015 Dazzling Daylilies – Balloons Over the Garden What it is: An annual award-winning festival at the Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens offering hot air balloon rides, children’s activities, live music, and a nighttime lantern release.

When it’s happening: June 17-21 What to expect: June 17 at 11:30 - Walk & Talk lunch June 18 at 10:00am and 2:00pm - Garden Tours and Talks June 19 at 6:00pm – Balloonists arrive, full rides available with reservation June 20 at 5:30am and 6:00pm Full rides available with reservation 5:30am -- 9:30am, 6:30pm – 8:30pm Tethered rides available on a first come, first served basis 7:00am – 12:00pm – Annual Daylily sale 4:00-9:00pm - “Blooms, Balloons, Bar-B-Q & Bluegrass,” children’s activities from 4 – 6pm June 21 at 5:30am - Balloonists arrive, full rides available with reservation Cost: June 17 and 18 - Adults $5, Seniors $3, Youth $1, June 19 -21 -- $2 daily, under 2 free To find out more: www.wkbg.org Balloon Line for Reservations: (270) 993-1234 (270) 852-8925

presentation, and fireworks accompanied by patriotic music at 9.

Cost: Free To find out more: http://daviess200.org/event/bicentennialfireworks/ (270) 687-8700 Big Blue Riverfront Relay Marathon What it is: A 26 lap race around downtown Owensboro. You and your team have 6 hours to complete the race! Run one lap and pass the baton or run 6 laps and pass the baton, it’s up to you.

When it’s happening: August 8 at 6:00pm What to expect: Come down early and set up your team area. Each team is permitted a 10′ x 10′ space along the course. Runners can tackle the course as a solo runner, a pair, or team of 3-4. Walkers are welcome.

Cost: Registration fees are $38 which include a 2015 Big Blue Relay race t-shirt, a great running experience through downtown Owensboro, and a unique finisher’s medal.

To find out more: http://www.40lbsledgehammer.com/big-bluerelay/ Concert on the Lawn What it is: Owensboro Symphony Orchestra’s annual free concert held on the lawn at Kentucky Wesleyan College.

When it’s happening: August 22 at 7:00pm What to expect: Bring your favorite blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a performance of classical and modern music under the starlit sky.

Performances by the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra as well as The Stars Among Us, the winners of the OSO’s talent competition.

Cost: Free seating on the lawn or reserve a table of eight for $100

Bicentennial Fireworks What it is: Celebrate Daviess County’s 200th birthday with a uniquely combined city and county celebration on the riverfront.

Enjoy the beautiful fireworks display along with live music and special events.

When it’s happening: July 4, events begin at 6:00pm What to expect: View the fireworks from the beautiful Ohio Riverfront with music from the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra.

Gates open at 6 pm, followed by speeches, a Color Guard

www.OwensboroLiving.com

To find out more: http://theoso.com/ (270) 684-0661 Owensboro Air Show What it is: Get up close and personal with a variety of aircraft and their pilots, as well as enjoy a bird’s eye view of vintage war birds, military jets, and aerobatic demonstrations over the Ohio River.

When it’s happening: September 11 – 13 What to expect: Friday night 4:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. Owensboro-

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THE LAST WORD

BY LORA WIMSATT

W HAT’S YOU R FAVOR IT E...

Yes, I went online and voted in the “Best of Owensboro” poll,

“standard.” Nothing special, right?

but that was tough. In most categories, I could have entered any

Wrong.

of a dozen places I like. (And in a few, like “Best Spa,” I simply

have no experience, no idea, no opinion. But hey, may the best

find a place on your list of “favorites” – because of that little

mani-pedi win!)

thing called “service.”

Regardless of who gets the most votes, it’s wonderful to live in

These are the places that create a special experience – and

The guy behind the counter greets you when you come in.

a community that offers so many choices. I’ve never understood

He even looks you in the eye. He smiles and seems genuinely

people who moan “We don’t have a (fill in the blank)!” I’ve

happy you are there.

always wanted to tell these glass-half-empty people to go to one

of the terrific places we DO have and allow them to fill their cups

cheerfully agrees to hold the pickle, add extra onion, put the

up to overflowing!

mayo on the side – whatever your little quirk might be. She is

attentive but not intrusive.

I guess the most difficult categories were the restaurants.

The girl taking your order at the table is pleasant. She

Let’s face it: There’s not much food I don’t like, haha. Especially

They happily oblige your request to sit by the window.

if someone else is cooking it!

They coo over your baby.

I love the local eateries – the diners, the sandwich shops, the

They offer a sample of a menu item you’re not sure about.

specialty pizza joints, the bakeries …I love the “personality”

When you use the drive-through, they have a treat for your

these places radiate.

dog.

But I like a lot of the franchises too. Because here’s the

They don’t rush you through your dinner.

thing: Eating out is not only about the food, it’s also about the

They keep the drinks refilled … or, at the self-serve places,

experience.

they keep the fountain area clean.

I am thinking of a couple of places in particular as I write

If something goes wrong, they fix it.

this. These are “just” chains. Nothing on the menu you can’t

It doesn’t matter whether this is the cheapest dive in town or

get at a million other places just like them all across the state,

the most exclusive, expensive restaurant.

country or maybe even the world. Even the dining room décor is

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The place that offers excellence service is my favorite.

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