Paducah Life Magazine - May/June 2025

YOU ’ REINTH

YOURE IN THE HANDS OF A HIGHLYY-SKILLED TEAM.

L

HEHANDSOFA

We perform advanced general and minimally invasive procedures, including lapa roscopic, open and robotic-assisted surgery.

Using advanced techniques and innovative technology, we offer treatment for:

r

•Gallbladder, , small bowel, colon and appendix disorders.

•Hernia (inguinal, umbilical, incisional, ventral and hiatal).

•Skin disorders, including benign and malignant skin cancers.

•Patients who need Mediport placement.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 270.538.9555.

, F , MD

Leeft ft to right: Kristen Williams D, FAACS; Anthony D

, F , MD l avis, MD; Phillip Blotevogel, , MD; and John Hahn D FAACS.

Corbin | Floyd | Hardin

executive editor/ PUBLISHER

Darlene M. Mazzone �

associate EDITORS

Amy Clevidence

Stephanie Watson

Amy Sullivan �

art DIRECTOR

Scott McWilliams �

associate art DIRECTOR

Amanda Newman �

editorial PHOTOGRAPHY

Amy Wright �

cover PHOTOGRAPHY

Brad Rankin � on the COVER

Michael Cochran �

Paducah Life is published six times a year for the Paducah area. All contents copyright 2025 by Mazzone Communications. Reproduction or use of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Comments written in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of Paducah Life. Subscription rate is $29.95 for six issues. Subscription inquiries, all remittances and all advertising inquiries should be sent to Paducah Life, 2780 D New Holt Rd. #346, Paducah, KY 42001. Phone: (270) 556-1914. This magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. All submissions may be edited for length, clarity and style.

by J.T. CRAWFORD

photo by B RAD RANKIN

Playing

Michael Cochran looks back on a LIFE devoted to Paducah’s Market House Theatre—a remarkable little theatre on Market Square that’s played center stage in a revival story all its own

TTa-DA-ga-duh, ta-DA-ga-duh. On the cobblestones of Market Square in historic downtown Paducah, the rhythmic cadence of car tires reverberate from building to building, establishing a musical pulse. Chirrup, chirrup. Songbirds chime in, adding a light, punchy beat.

In the midst of this downtown rhapsody, The Market House Theatre office door opens, and Michael Cochran, the theatre’s Executive Director, makes his entrance into a spotlight of sun beaming through a canopy of leaves. He exits (stage left) and makes his way to another one of the theatre’s buildings around the corner, his feet joining in the city’s rhythm as he makes his way to one of the many components of what has become the Market House Theatre’s downtown campus.

Michael Cochran’s presence at the Market House Theatre has played a leading role in the unfolding story of this creative community. And his retirement this summer brings about the finale of a theatrical leadership encompassing more than four decades.

Like many great adventure stories, Michael’s tale took him on an unplanned path where he faced the unexpected. The opening act unfolded in Wisconsin. “I am from Kensosha, and April and I met at the University of WisconsinWhitewater as theatre students,” says Michael as he discusses his formative years and the introduction of his life’s co-star. After graduation, April took a job at a dinner theatre in Kansas City, and Michael moved on to grad school. When April needed a technical director, she thought of Michael. He took the job, and April became his boss. After a particularly difficult show that went over budget, Michael, along with numerous other staff members, was let go. By then, Michael and April were a package deal, so she lost her job as well.  It was 1983. Michael drove to Atlanta to a theatre conference to look for a job. On his trip, he went through Paducah, going both to and from his destination. He gave it no thought. When he returned to Kansas City, he was greeted with a phone call—from Paducah. “It was a little community theatre,” he recalls, “and they said ‘Would you be interested in a job?’” He’d already received an offer to join a touring show. Another offer would have him working for a company like the one he’d just left. Both options meant Michael and April would potentially be split up again.

Michael recalls their final decision. “We thought, why don’t I take this job in Paducah, Kentucky at a community theatre, we get married, and we try it for two years?”

What he found upon his arrival in the river city was a theatre most definitely in need of direction. “I remember looking at the Market

Michael Cochran performs in Chapter Two by Neil Simon in 1988.

House building and going, where did they find the room to put a theatre in this place? I came on a technical rehearsal day, walked in the back of the theatre, and they had all the actors on stage while they set the light cues. They did that for hours and hours. I thought oh, that would never work in professional theatre. I think I can truly be helpful here.”

Michael had wanted to be a part of an ongoing community of creativity. And April had a passion for education. They immediately saw potential in a city committed to community theatre but with some definitive growing pains.

“We were looking for nice people, too,” laughs April. “Kansas City was fast-paced, very driven.” Their experience had been mostly corporate work where decisions were driven by the bottom line. “We wanted to work with people who liked theatre and thought it was fun,” she adds. “We were taken with how loving and warm the people were.”

Paducah’s downtown district was a little LESS exciting at that time. The Market House wasn’t in the best shape. Many of the surrounding buildings were in disrepair. There was a slaughterhouse across the street. And there were a few questionable late-night hangouts. Michael embraced the challenges.

Then, in two years, came their self-imposed time limit. “We were probably ready to go,” says Michael, “but the person who hired me left. The Market House board did a nationwide search. And ultimately, they hired April as the Executive Director. So, she became my boss. Again.”

The duo set out to expand Market House Theatre offerings, and April developed an extensive educational program. A capital

AACT Fellows

This summer, Michael Cochran will receive the AACT Fellows Award for his work and commitment at MHT and across the nation. The AACT Fellows Award, one of the highest honors presented by the American Association of Community Theatre, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and service to both community theatre and AACT over many years.

Being named an AACT Fellow is a lifetime distinction, an honor bestowed only upon those who have left their mark on the world of community theatre. The selection process itself is a testament to the esteem in which Fellows are held; new Fellows are nominated and selected by current Fellows members, ensuring that only the most qualified and deserving candidates are chosen. The award is presented every other year during AACTFest, AACT’s national festival celebrating community theatre from across the country.

This year’s AACTFest will take place June 25–28, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa, at the historic Hoyt Sherman Place Theater.

1991.

campaign added classroom space, administrative space, rehearsal space, an administrative office, a costume shop, and a scene shop. Ten years into their tenure, Michael took over as Executive Director so that April could focus on her work with kids on the theatre campus and in schools across the region. When she became the Education Director, Michael became her boss. “We’d been flipping back and forth,” says Michael, “but really we are a team. We’ve always been a team going back to college. We always pushed one another to take the next step, to do the next challenging thing. That’s what brought the quality level up. We pushed each other on.”

For Michael, it hasn’t always been about having a vision. It has been about simply pointing himself and the theatre down certain paths, most of which were in response to how the community interacted with programming. “We knew what direction we wanted to go, but we didn’t always know exactly what it would look like when we got there,” he says. “And what we envisioned wasn’t always what we ended up with. Many times, it was better.”

Working with the spaces he’d been handed wasn’t easy. But Michael soon realized that some of the perceived limitations fueled the things he loved about theatre. The Market House building itself was incredibly small. But that opens up the full breadth of a performance.

“It is all about close-up, intimate theatre,” he says. “People succeed so much better when they have spaces that are close to the audience— when they have a relationship with the audience where they can tell stories. That seems especially true with the younger actors. You feel like you are present and right there.”

Michael Cochran in Inherit the Wind from

community, the growth naturally occurs. “We just did Lion King Kids at Clark Elementary,” says Michael. “And even though you have elementary-aged kids in school costumes, there were moments where I still got emotional. Theatre has that power. Story has the power to do that. I can watch a rehearsal fifty times of an actor doing something, and I can still get emotional because I am right there with them in that moment experiencing it.”

From the first day Michael laid eyes on the historic Market House Theatre in 1983 until now, that has been the driving force for him as an artist who wants others to experience those kinds of moments. “As a kid, I went on a family trip to Wyoming, and I saw an outdoor drama called Flyspeck Billy in South Dakota. And I was just fascinated with all these actors telling this story. I came back

The 2025-2026 Market House Theatre

Ken Ludwig’s A Comedy of Tenors/September 4–14, 2025

A madcap farce set in 1930s Paris where mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and operatic egos threaten to derail the concert of the century.

to school—this is when I was in fifth grade—and I gathered all the neighborhood kids together, got a refrigerator box, built a set, and put on a show.” Eventually, Michael’s fascination with staging a show led to a LIFE of emotionally moving audiences with music, lights, sound, and creative discovery.

When it comes to all the accomplishments of Market House Theatre, Michael is slow to take credit, rather deferring to the power

Dial M for Murder – October 16–26, 2025

A suspenseful new take on the classic thriller where jealousy turns deadly and every alibi hides a deeper secret.

Heat Lightning – April 16–26, 2026

In this world premiere romantic comedy by Michael Cochran, a lightning strike sends a couple back 30 years to relive a night that changes everything.

Jesus Christ Superstar –June 4–20, 2026

The iconic rock opera that reimagines the final days of Jesus through the eyes of Judas, set to a powerful and timeless score.

As part of Michael’s ever-present civic commitment, he painted storm drains during the Rotary Club’s Day of Service in 2021.

of theatre and the power of those who become passionate about it. “I did things because it was the work I wanted to do,” says Michael. “I felt strongly about the work. I view myself as an artist who is helping to create work. It’s a collaborative effort. It’s not just me. You can’t do it without others. So many people made Market House Theatre what it is. And I got to play a part in that.”

★ by C ALEB BUFORD

MICHAEL COCHRAN’S TENURE AS EXECUTIVE

Director of Market House Theatre has brought a lot of challenges, many highlights, and plenty of shows. Michael has led the organization through two major capital campaign projects resulting in over $6 million in donations to purchase and renovate 10 of the 11 historic buildings that Market House Theatre calls home. He’s worked with the board to ensure the theatre could remain financially viable through the creation of endowments and strong donor relationships. Michael’s work has enabled the theatre to grow from an original staff of two to 18 individuals currently, 13 of which work full-time to keep up with maintenance, production management, marketing, ticket sales, and development.

His work extends beyond the success of Market House Theatre. Michael was a part of a movement that has led to Paducah becoming the cultural hub that it is today as one of only seven UNESCO creative cities in the country. He advocates locally to ensure that the arts are not only funded but valued by local and state government, meeting with city officials and state representatives to share the lasting impact the arts have on a community. Michael has served on the board of the American Association of Community Theatre, a national organization dedicated to helping community theatres thrive. His work is so much more than just directing the next play, and his commitment to the creative success of the community has always been clear.

Even as his retirement approaches, Michael is still fully invested in the success of MHT and theatre as an artform. ‘People always ask me what my favorite show is and it’s always the show I’m working on,” Michael shared, sitting at a work table in his office laden with sheet music and 3D set design renderings. “They’re like your children; you can’t pick one.” Michael is currently working on his last show on staff at MHT, Kentucky’s first community theatre production of Waitress. Market House Theatre was one of the first community theatres in the nation to receive the rights to this new musical, an honor typically reserved for professional regional theatres. The musical, featuring music by Sara Barelles, follows Jenna, a small-town pie baker at a local diner, and her relationship with her customers, friends, doctor, and abusive husband.

WHEN THE NEXT CURTAIN RISES

Retirement is just another word in the dictionary for Michael. While he might be leaving his role as Executive Director of Market House Theatre, Michael shows no signs of stopping. “I intend to be engaged in Paducah’s nonprofit and arts culture, but in a new way,” Michael commented. Playwriting is especially important to him. During his time at MHT, Michael wrote seven plays, one of which was produced and published as a part of AACT’s NewPlayFest, a national competition. Michael’s latest play, Heat Lightning, will be produced as a part of MHT’s 62nd season Signature Series. “I’ll be doing freelance work—guest directing around the country, playwriting—doing things I haven’t had time to do while running the theatre full-time.”

As for MHT, Michael hopes to see it continue to grow with the arrival of the new artistic director, Ben Grimes. “I think Ben can take it further—not be tied to doing all the small things, but focusing on big-picture strategy and growth,” Michael added. “Because I’ve done every job in the theatre, there’s a limit to what I can do. The theater needs someone who can focus on the next level—and not be the person running sound at Clark School or rewiring the lights under the stage,” he added with bemusement. Even as Michael begins scripting his next act, one thing remains certain about his legacy of work. “We built something unique,” he concludes.

Roy Hensel

“I have known Michael Cochran from his first day of work at the Market House Theatre more than 41 years ago. I’ve been fortunate to be a part of more than 50 productions at the theatre with most of them graced by the magic touch of Michael Cochran.

His first day of work was our first rehearsal for Snow White. He came in with his designing skills which added so much to that production. After a few weeks, he left and returned with his beautiful and talented bride, April. April came and immediately jumped into the show, using her makeup skills to turn seven adolescents into dwarves.

Since I had experienced MHT one year before Michael arrived, I immediately saw the great improvement in the theatre—in style, manner, talent, growth and quality. Quality is a word now synonymous with Market House Theatre. As a two-time board member, I have seen a tremendous growth in the theatre. The statistics of Michael’s hand in the evolution of our community theatre are staggering. And on a personal basis, I can say I myself have grown so much in my acting experiences thanks to Michael. In my 43 years at MHT, I have had the great fortune to see the many talents of this amazing man. When Michael directs, he becomes sort of a puppet master. He can see what works best. He adds so much by “tweaking” each page, each movement, each line.

Finally, let me say that there would be no Market House Theatre if it weren’t for Michael (and April) Cochran. Michael has an amazing foresight and vision which has created the Market House Theatre of today, which touches so many lives around our entire region. The theatre’s motto is We change lives. That doesn’t just apply to the theatre, but to Michael, as he truly has changed lives (including mine).”

George Bray, Paducah Mayor

Cindy Miller

MHT Development Director (2011-2019)

MHT Board President (2008-2011)

Parent of three highlyengaged daughters

“Day in and day out, Michael Cochran’s driving core belief is that theatre changes lives. With his conviction that amateurs can do great things with professional support, he has inspired high standards, integrity, and a strong work ethic that make every production shine. His enduring legacy will certainly lie in the thousands of individuals who have blossomed as they gained critical life skills, developed self-confidence, and thrived within a community of friends.”

“Community theatres have the opportunity to impact the very fabric of arts and culture in a community by providing not only entertainment and opportunities for local thespians but also an introduction to acting for budding students. Michael Cochran has made a massive impact on the Paducah community through his leadership of all these initiatives, not only in the theatre, but in the business of theater. We will be forever grateful for the impact of his contributions and welcome the next chapter in his life as he continues to contribute to the assets of our UNESCO creative city.”

Chris Black

“Michael and I have been friends for a long time, and we’ve worked on lots of projects together. We even share having played the same role in a play, Black Comedy, before we ever met. (Yes, he’s been an actor too!) Michael has done great work building an important corner of Paducah's creative culture and status. I feel so lucky to know him, and we are all lucky he chose Paducah more than forty years ago.:

Jeane and Joe Framptom

Megan E Mulry

President, Market House Board of Directors

“Through decades of steady leadership and tireless creative energy, Michael helped Market House Theatre grow into the vibrant place it is today. For over 41 years, he brought stories to life, built a home for creativity, and gave generations of performers and audiences a place to belong.”

“For 41 years, Michael Cochran has been the guiding light and motivating inspiration of the Market House Theatre. His leadership, creative vision, professional and artistic creativity, and talent have been the catalyst that has transformed a once struggling amateur theatre into the professional organization that it is today. Michael has played a vital role in Paducah’s vibrant arts community. Not only have thousands of children and adults benefitted from his influence but leadership in the Next Stage project was responsible for the renovation of 11 historic buildings to expand the campus of MHT.

We send our very best wishes to him on his retirement and are delighted that he and April intend to continue to share their talents in Paducah. Congratulations!”

Kristin (and John) Williams

Former Board Chair, Co-Chair of the Second Stage Capital Campaign

“Having served on and for many (many) Boards of Directors, I can say with utter certainty that Michael Cochran is the best of the best of non-profit directors. The legacy he is leaving is remarkable in every aspect—financial health, sustainability, programming, facilities, donor-tending, and reputation. He played the long game and had a vision for a block of falling-down buildings in downtown Paducah that has turned out spectacularly. Instead of empty storefronts and roofs caving in, we have delighted children and families flocking to Market House facilities every day of the week. We have been proud to support MHT because of Michael’s leadership.”

The Leadership Center

and hands-on learning experiences to ensure participants gain the critical skills necessary for effective leadership.”

The numbers don't lie: according to a McKinsey report, 40% of American employers struggle to find candidates with the skills needed to fill key roles. This issue is even more pronounced in rural areas like West Kentucky, where the demand for qualified professionals to step into leadership roles is rapidly increasing.

The Leadership Center’s programs have been instrumental in preparing leaders to meet this demand. By focusing on workforce development, the Center is not only helping fill positions but also impacting multiple facets of organizational success: improving productivity, increasing employee retention, fostering innovation, and attracting top talent.

Sanda Wilson, President and CEO of the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce adds, “As we look forward, we are focused on providing impactful leadership development to assist leaders of all stages of life to move our community forward and address the needs of our community and region.”

Supporting Homegrown Talent

One of the unique challenges Paducah faces is keeping its brightest young professionals from leaving the area. But, as Frank points out, the opportunity for success in West Kentucky is there—it just needs to be highlighted. “The key is showing our homegrown talent the path to an exciting and fulfilling career right here in Paducah,” he says.

The Leadership Center’s initiatives work to retain talent by addressing four key areas:

Opportunity Awareness: Many professionals aren’t fully aware of the opportunities available in the region. Programs like Youth LEAD, Leadership Paducah, and Leadership West Kentucky offer participants an exclusive look at major employers in the community.

Networking: Success is often about who you know. Programs such as Paducah Young Professionals, Leadership Paducah, and Leadership West Kentucky facilitate networking across industries to help professionals make connections that can advance their careers.

Civic Engagement: People seek more than just financial security; they want to contribute to meaningful work and to grow personally. Paducah offers unique avenues for civic engagement that many communities lack, and the Leadership Center connects professionals with volunteer opportunities, board service, and community initiatives.

Professional Development: The Leadership Center continuously adapts its curriculum to provide emerging leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed long-term in their careers.

Frank Bennett, Executive Director

The Leadership Center

“We are actively shaping the future of Paducah by ensuring that those who have been raised here stay, develop, and grow within our community,” Frank says.

“An essential, yet often overlooked, aspect of community development is its people,” says Chris Dockins, Associate Director/COO at Community Foundation of West Kentucky. “While we frequently focus on infrastructure— roads, bridges, and buildings—and attracting employers, we must also invest in nurturing the human capacity within our community. This investment fosters leadership, and innovation, and ultimately enhances the quality of life for everyone. We are thankful that the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce had the foresight to develop this program and launch the Center as its own nonprofit.”

A Track Record of Success

The Leadership Center’s programs have already made a significant impact on Paducah’s business and civic landscape. Leadership Paducah, which recently celebrated its 38th year, has produced hundreds of graduates who have gone on to take leadership positions within the community. “The program’s objectives are to expand participants’ knowledge of the community, provide leadership development through direct instruction, and create invaluable networking opportunities,” Frank shares.

Meanwhile, Leadership West Kentucky, which serves 15 counties, brings together leaders from across the region. By fostering relationships between leaders from neighboring counties, this program serves as a catalyst for collaboration, regional development, and economic growth.

“The more we connect and collaborate, the stronger our region will become,” Frank adds.

What’s Next for Paducah's Leaders?

So, what do today’s emerging leaders need to ensure Paducah remains a competitive and sustainable place to live and do business? According to Frank, there isn’t a single skill that stands out. “Leadership requires a diverse skill set, and the key is adaptability,” he explains. “Emerging leaders need to be able to apply different skills as challenges evolve. Flexibility, empathy, problem-solving, and communication are just some of the qualities that will allow them to meet the changing needs of our community.”

Paducah's future depends on nurturing these qualities and ensuring that we are cultivating a new generation of leaders capable of navigating the complexities of our global economy.

The Path Forward

Paducah has a unique advantage: its close-knit community, its appreciation for the arts and creativity, and its commitment to supporting growth from within. As Paducah continues to face challenges and embrace new opportunities, the Leadership Center stands as a cornerstone of development—ensuring that tomorrow’s leaders are equipped to take on the tasks of sustaining and growing the city. As Frank so aptly summarizes, "The Leadership Center plays a critical role in ensuring that the future leaders of Paducah are not only prepared, but inspired to make a meaningful difference in the community."

Shann by on

Weebb S W

Moth & Raavveen Rav

what speaks to

elryjew a g e not just a r ’ e We shar ” e about, r ’ we

- sustainable, handmade, and fair g ffe fo We gift shop. e, or a stor

s tend to be looking om small businesses. Our customer fr y ade items mostl tr

ather than generic r g items or thoughtful and unique gifts— fo

eally because it r or thoughtful people' fo 'A on settled ecently e r v e ha w ent taglines, but ffeer we’v years, er the “Ov e had diff 'An eclectic shop f es Erileigh. “W clothin boutique, a focus on offering f with meaning

This tagline f e the perf ving

passions into a y ombine her man e to c desir born out of a

Originally ” e do. w what to sum up way feect eels lik fe products.

st set ville, Erileigh fir ash om N aducah fr to P back g as mo w business as she

business jewelry a o-ow el, had c , M he and her mother . S up shop in 2017

oduct line, st pr s fir ’ e which became the stor eedlebeadles together called Dw

ented e she r small hair salon out of the spac a g as also oper w and Erileigh

were e they foor g ’ wasn t n. I Toow wer eiser in Lo Ye medley in the historic S

ned a ating Y T t long bef looking as time again f

After . in 2020 roadway d and B n to 3r wntow ed do v to expand and mo

e had other e, mother natur v ent mo ec or the most r fo ow business to bloom and gr or the fo w ess, it became clear that it c eat suc s of gr year several

oted s dev ’ came together in the end thanks to Erileigh verything plans. B

d been Wee’d with a ecounts she r wild,” was t . “I y friends and famil

When the time came f ut e laugh. “W ’

ome peopl welc easier to als. N feestiv wntow in do together and y c or bringin fo e lends it the added spac dream or hosting fo knack en & v av The ladies of Ra f to their plans f ommunit nf

v our mo g planning e into the new e f enting Then, just bef called f ith icy

er a v or o fo stor w

e ou foor truck. a g friends and r

y e the storm, m foor y ay uckily e. L ve to mo alks and r sidew y W e storm. or an ic fo

tha g e ev v e mo w gggesting tr a

e decided to try w but

ecastfoor v ur mo with oordinating month, c e date, the f ousin messaged me off as long

ds, and despite the fact that it shot, g a w t at night. I ffeering c tricky eally ould be r w oads, it r

ed u w single one of them sho y , ev eezing as fr w ontacted all our friend . I c

e made mu w ailer flatbed tr a ans, and v and

en & v open mic night. Ra g r

atefu e so gr wer e We ved. as mo w erything until ev

were we ust as ds. J ar oom afterw Mushr Mellow

v , the da bef ailer and sug erythin er with W oming t f A nd antique lighting

s Vs an of S v carav e had a We up.

er th v ed o unpack wly el and I slo started. M snow

friendl and a e of luck ok " . turned out better ed to rush, and essur eel pr fe ’ e didn w in g c to y popped b y ed in, and friends and famil snow

were we while days few s, the to our car back g oup to the gr e took w ul, and een the shops ultiple trips betw

acter of the building har , and the shop h occupy e el to r d Erileigh and M

The unique as doubled in size. e they spac y with the connection ly ve t ha couldn’ g the s ith no customer W o help.

wall with its exposed brick g

W a UV heading he next whole thing ent the bright, airy the perf op f

e -daughter duo ar e mother eativ or their fo dr ect back fe

e their new e ha ion to lif out in ant to hang w and l y eel c fe with the ar filled visi our and bring much m w about ho in work s still a “It’ can enjo y wa with inspir bursting e the cr ow ollection. N ys they it f ozy

omes to all the when it c ration

cited e so ex r ’ we ess, and progr space. w and shar oy

orate e to dec v av w oom e r mor

e s to mak wer e sell and flo w rt walls ant the w e I fe

e people spac e a in, lik lived-

excited y e particularl ar y product w er e sev feeatur expansion of the shop has enabled

or pop-up fo will be , it ow d participating the g yfeectl ents, and ev my e a v av Moth ha tself perf ng le f is t g

The line. s clothing tar et of S Mark or the sumptuous fo home in the r clusive oud to be the ex oth is pr M

e a ents lik e music ev v florists, and li aducah with P collaborations g s, artists and author g fe shops featuring stunning ecurrin egion f them to f al new lines and they elry pottery esh ener , Ra

e is evident in experienc g unique a g ffe fo Mel’ aducah. Erileigh and n P downtow locale in lively e of a en mor to be ev oth is set en & M v av rggy fr e and ith its expanded spac W tamper and Mitch Kimball. hand S S aducah artists ed P belov by y and y about the addition of jew

As the e. s alik visitor or locals and fo go-to spot e it a mak y will undoubtedl events y or c fo amped shop, ev orner of their r c y ev

true it a g and c eativity, oots of thoughtfulness, cr r ontinues to honor its s, it c ow shop gr

eflection of the eclectic spirit r

s passion foroffering shopping ery and their plans f ommunity f onnection, making ” n.

aducah. of P

i Mi Op en M Webbb Niight ic N non W

with Shann

one has a song in their hear yEver

. Open t

en musicians who ak y aw sometimes the , and y of drawing it out a e a w v mics ha

e a ” lik , gone dormant , “ ay ’s s e, let hav

poppingtheirheadsuphereandthere tar that one is upcoming and people st ound. Announce gr sleeping tulip bulb under

ening to join m v winter e y h open mic in Februar , “Open mic? Hm saying popping their heads up

e of music and g v the lo

w of c arm glo fun. The w

eate oom cr oss the r acr

ving th eaming in, lea str

e about when people ar citement and antic x of e o ound. Y cling ar and cir

e to rue pleasur as a t It w

a y of t ariet and a wide v

ecu e it a r plan is to mak

radition—so urring t lented people came o sing in the space, t e ar e liv to mak cipation that happens zz u could feel the bu heir coats at the door viting y and in d a coz rung café lights st fashioned ood oldy neighbors for m ad on me. I decided ’s the ” That mmm… e, e and ther p her y tuned! sta

★ by A MANDA HUTCHISON

A Bright and Fair Fut ure for Historic Cars on Par k

Paducah’s City-Center Park is Seeking a 21st Century Renaissance

AS A NEIGHBOR TO CARSON PARK, I’VE ALWAYS FOUND IT TO BE A CURIOUS SITE. SITUATED on 28th Street in the heart of Paducah, it’s sort of a transitional spot between a very residential area amidst a highly commercial boundary. It has this feeling of being sort of a barren landmark in a lively urban environment.

Three stone horse heads greet the occasional visitor. Horse stables, which are still in use, appear somewhat out of place in the middle of the city. Aside from the annual McCracken County Fair and an occasional monster truck rally, it’s generally a quiet, almost rural space.

It hasn’t always been this way. Carson Park was once considered a highlight of the city’s entertainment offerings. In the 1940s, Floral Hall, the building that still stands at the corner of 28th street and Monroe, was a lively site of the fairgrounds.

Carson Par k

In 1937, Luther F. and Lola B. Carson gave McCracken County $20,000 for the purchase and development of Carson Park. The contribution was originally offered to the city of Paducah, however the leadership at the time refused to accept the project. Luther was one of the wealthiest businessmen in Kentucky. He owned, controlled, or had interest in 18 Coca-Cola bottling plants, the oldest of which was the plant located in Paducah.

The Carson’s gift included restrictions outlined in the deed. First, the property had to be named Luther Carson Park; second, the property was to be used as a fairground for holding county fairs, exhibits of livestock, and farm products; third, the property was to be used for training, exercising, exhibiting, and racing of light breeds of horses and ponies; fourth, the property was to be used for horse shows. The park can currently be used for other public purposes, but there can be no continuous interruption of stated services for a period of two years. According to the deed, if any of these caveats are not met, the park should be donated to Easter Seals West Kentucky. (The original deed outlined the park to be donated to the Friendly

Home of Paducah. When the home closed, it quitclaimed its interest to Easter Seals).

W.M. and Julia Husbands, who owned a home near the site, were upset about the plans for Carson Park. They filed a petition for an injunction. They argued that the development would cause “dust, odors, attraction of undesirable persons and hoodlums to congregate on such property, constitute and be an insufferable nuisance to the plaintiffs and to their adjacent property.” The petition was later dismissed.

The 1937 site plans for Carson park were designed by a prolific landscape architect, Mary Long Rogers of Metropolis. (It should be noted that Whitmore was her married name at the time. So, most references to Carson Park state her name as Mary Long Whitmore. She changed her name to Rogers when she remarried.) Today, the only evidence of her original plans for Carson Park can be seen in a photograph of her, her model of the park, and Luther Carson. Based on this image and other images at the time, it appears that Floral Hall and an entrance pavilion at 28th street were built in accordance with her plans.

The WPA assisted in the construction of the five stables at the northwest corner, a stock pavilion at the northeast corner, an entrance at 28th street, and Floral

Carson Par k

Carson Park Visionary Mary Long Rogers

It’s not often that work is attributed to female landscape architects of the early 20th century. To find her name associated with Carson Park and to find that she was raised not far from Paducah, piqued our interest. Originally born in St Louis, Mary and her family moved to Metropolis at some point between 1910-1920. Though she wanted to study architecture, her mother convinced her it “just wasn’t something a southern woman did,” so she studied landscape architecture. She received her degree from the University of Illinois. One of her earliest works was plans for the improvement at Fort Massac State Park. After being married for just a few years, Mary separated from her husband and moved into her mother’s home in Metropolis with her young son. She started her own landscape architectural practice from there. Around the same time as the Carson Park plan, Mary won a design competition for a plan for Shawneetown, Illinois that had been devastated by floods. She later married architect Lincoln Rogers. The pair moved to Chicago where they produced plans for neighborhoods on the southside of Chicago. One of her works of note was a plan for the public housing complex called the Jane Addams Home. In 1944, as a widow, Mary teamed up with another landscape architect, Gertrude Kuh in Chicago. Even after Mary moved to St Louis and subsequently, Santa Barbara, the two continued to work together often collaborating on drawings through the mail.

A Look Back At Paducah’s Fairgrounds

The first known fairgrounds in Paducah was located on Old Mayfield Road. In a 1950 Paducah Sun Democrat article, V. Blaine Russell reminisces about visiting the fairgrounds in 1897. “I climbed into the remains of the old grandstands about the year 1897. The fairgrounds there had been abandoned by that time, and the old seats and shelter were going into dilapidation. I seem to remember that the field where the fairgrounds had been was already being tilled as farming land then.”

In 1893, the Paducah Fair and Exposition Association bought land at 29th and Jefferson Street and named it the West End Fairgrounds. Fairs were held here until 1919. Then in 1931, a fire destroyed one home and a dozen stables at the fairgrounds. A building called Floral Hall existed at the West End Fairgrounds. It is unclear what happened to this building, but in 1937 as the new fairgrounds were being built, the Paducah Sun Democrat editors extolled that “Floral Hall was one of the bright spots of the old McCracken County Fair. At the old fairgrounds it was the Mecca for thousands who came from all over the district to view the finest products of the farm and kitchen—the choicest tobacco, corn, pumpkins, jellies, jams, and cakes.”

This Incredible Customer Built 2015 property is amazing! Across the road 1,000 yards from KY Dam Village State Park, Dam, Marina, Restaurant/Lodge. 2,000 yards from the Golf course! Less than 2 miles to Aviation Airfield, & I-24/69. 5 total bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, 2 laundry areas & 3 gas log fireplaces! Vaulted & Cathedral ceilings. Detailed woodwork & moldings, polished marble, w/unique characteristics! Expansive Living room open to kitchen/breakfast area. Primary suite offers a custom tiled bath, heated floor & walk-in closet! Covered patio w/ wood burning FP. In-ground pool, privacy fence & gated concrete drive w/ ample parking, 2 1/2 car garage has apartment, extra lot & huge PRIVACY FENCE! 135 Allegheny Road • Gilbertsville, Kentucky • $1,399,900

Unique Elegant Updated 1 level furnished home with prestigious gated subdivision. 4 bedroom/4 bath, 3,682 sq ft custom built, exterior southern living plan, energy efficient. 2 very private lots. Open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, gorgeous hardwood flooring. Pella quadruple insulated windows & doors, auto-full service generator, sprinkler system, sunroom, deck, pation & private back yard! New roof/shingles-2023. Maintenance free siding-2024, new Cambria Clovelly Quartz countertop in kitchen. Finished apartment w/full bath, kitchenette & NEW HEAT PUMP-2022. 706 Marina Village Drive • Grand Rivers, Kentucky • $740,000

Immaculate Custom Built 3 bedroom 3 & 1/2 bath 2006, on 2 Gorgeous lots in Prestigious Gated Marina Village Subdivision! Gorgeous hardwood & 9 ft ceilings throughout, large family room open to Kitchen! Impressive colors, many updates. 2 Bedrooms on main level & one HUGE bedroom upstairs. All bedrooms have a full bath. Kitchen has ample custom cabinetry! NEW HEAT/AIR UNITS IN 2023. Upstairs-2019. NEW DECK, Concrete & Patio-2023/2024. 4 cargarage heated & cooled. Extra drive to back of home. NEW railing on Deck, ALL FURNITURE, DECOR, TV’S, TABLEWARE, BEDDING, TOWELS STAY! Seller has rented boat slip on Marina Village side at Green Turtle Bay. 718 Marina Village Drive • Grand Rivers, Kentucky • $680,000

Wow! 3 beautiful lots, over 1/2 acre sitting up HIGH on a hill with a SPECTACULAR BREATHTAKING VIEW OF KY LAKE in Cambridge Shores Subdivision! Build your Dream Home! Magnificent Stunning view of KY Lake! Enjoy all the amenities that Cambridge Shores has to offer including 2 boat ramps, a covered picnic pavilion, a swim area, sandy beach, courtesy docks, tennis court, basketball cout and Private Club House, just a short Golf Cart ride away! HOA fee only $175 annually. This quiet KY Lake neighborhood is the perfect place to call home! 27 Paradise Point Road • Gilbertsville, Kentucky $368,000

sttiin L A GIRLH O as t

y eggacy L g CK BECOMES A A OD L ng e gac

ORF

GGIE HAMPER MA

Agggie e M v aducah nati P GIRL, LITTLE A S

ag a

er dollhouse—but nev a wanted wayys amper had al H

in the shop he work tan, at husband, S her g y ay w gggie 1990s, M

model house. assembled a efully he car atched him as w he age. S ept in their gar k

and he g tr y as an engineer b w He

models g with cr ed as often task w

in the in Michigan back g While li had one. vin ag as one da admiring aining eating of homes. “Y this is going

youare beautifuldollhousethat sucha to be Yoouknow

ed. gie observ gg M ” someone else, g

As soon as he finished that model “A e one?” ou lik y would Weell, , er husband smiled at her H dollhouse?” er had a that I nev w ou kno y “Did

dollhouse,” y on m work house, he got to

husband y as an adult and m w e I “Ther with amusement. es gie shar gg M

The dollhouse.” me a g w

ou ar y beautiful dollhouse that such a making ag “W “ ag as making

A-frame. wooden a was ”“residence vide f

om the en fr ought in some childr e br H en electricity , and ev wallpaper bit of e, he added carpet, a e made furnitur H

to add work to ent back w kitchen, so he a as missing w ed it notic immediately They feeedback. o neighborhood to pr

Then, this essential household element.

ought in e br wer s oduct tester the little pr

Hutchis

Aman by son nda

“Seeing their smiles as they see dollhouse has been such a lovely reward for me. They are just so appreciative.”

again. “Mrs. Hamper, we’d love to play with it, but it is missing a bathroom,” Maggie recalls the children telling her. So, Stan went back to the drawing board and crafted another necessary feature to the evolving structure.

In 2000, after her husband passed away, Maggie moved back to Paducah. She brought the dollhouse with her and gifted it to her grandniece.

More than 30 years later, near Christmas time, while walking through the thrift store, St Vincent de Paul, Maggie was thinking over how much fun she has had in the past decorating gingerbread houses with her long-time partner, Joe Cunningham. “I decided to walk through the toy section and I found this darling little house,” she recalls. “So, I bought it and furnished it. Then one night, I woke up and thought to myself, What am I doing? What am I going to do with this dollhouse? I have no children.” Maggie called up a new friend she had made and asked if the friend’s daughter would want the dollhouse. The activity of finding, fixing, furnishing and giving away a dollhouse has now sparked so much joy in Maggie’s life.

After giving away the dollhouse project, Maggie found a second one at St Vincent’s. “I just had to get it. I had so much fun with the first one,” Maggie shares. After finishing her second décor endeavor, she again had to ask herself, “Who should I give this to?” She approached a woman who had brought a little girl with her to the McCracken County Senior Citizen Center. Maggie explained that she had a dollhouse and no one to take it. The women exclaimed, “Oh my great-grand-baby would love that!” Maggie recalls. The great grandmother explained to Maggie how, due to unfortunate circumstances, the child’s toys had been locked away in storage and the little girl had nothing to play with. So, Maggie found a “home” for yet another one of her creations to the delight of a young girl in need of entertainment.

Maggie, now in her mid 80s, has no plans to stop finding and “fixing up” prospective dollhouses, then finding welcoming owners for her miniature mansions. “Seeing their smiles as they see their first dollhouse has been such a lovely reward for me,” Maggie shares. “They are just so appreciative.”

Maggie’s latest dollhouse is currently under renovations. The McCracken County Public Library has plans to include it as a prize during their summer reading contest that beings in June.

Maggie Hamper has made up for lost time in her LIFE without a dollhouse to call her own. Her childhood lack has now become a continuing legacy of fulfillment for both her own joy and that of her young friends.

Debunking the Lineage of Paducah’s Nobility

(This article is reprinted from the original which appeared in Paducah Life Magazine in 1998!)

DURING A RECENT

holiday my phone rang, and a strange voice asked, “Who was the original Duke of Paducah?”

As a local historian, I frequently get inquiries on local history and legend. However, I was a bit foggy about the title and had a vague notion that it came from some country music performer. I confess I felt a bit guilty as I had a card proclaiming to one and all that I was a Duke of Paducah. I should have known more: so, I resolved to find out just who was the original Duke of Paducah.

In an editorial dated May 20, 1979, editor Jack Paxton of the Paducah Sun-Democrat reported that the title “Duke of Paducah” had been accorded originally to Irvin Cobb, Paducah’s favorite son. However, Benjamin Frances

by D R . J OHN ROBERTSON

Debunking the Lineage of Paducah’s Nobility

Ford, a well-known country comedian and banjo picker, was the first to use the title professionally. Ford was born in DeSoto, MO and performed with Gene Autry on WLS in Chicago. He also appeared on Barn Dance, NBC’s Plantation Party and migrating south, became a fixture on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville (where he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1986 after his death).

Enroute, Ford was in St. Louis in 1935 on radio KWK. Trying for a unique identity, Arnold Boone, a salesman for the station originally from Paducah, suggested that Ford should use the title, “Duke of Paducah.”

Ford always appeared in character wearing a green hat, green pants, green coat with brass buttons and high button shoes. His closing line that became his trademark was “I’m goin’ to the wagon: these shoes are killin’ me!”

Paxton’s account of the naming of the Duke of Paducah, also told a tale that was later amplified by Christopher Ash in the local newspaper of June 22, 1986. Billie Jacobs, the wife of former Mayor George Jacobs, remembered that the award developed from a meeting with her husband and “Whitey” Ford at the fair at Metropolis in 1953. Mayor Jacobs told Ford that everywhere he went, people knew of Ford’s stage role and insisted on extending the title of “Duke of Paducah” to the mayor. Jacobs got Ford to agree to come to Paducah and receive “official” recognition of his assumed title, hoping to bring publicity to the community. Thus, the idea for an official award was born.

The first awards were made later that year to Ford and others including former mayors Robert Cherry, Wayne C. Smith, Pierce E. Lackey and James P. Smith. The first Duchess, Miss Lennie W. McLaughlin, was the winner of

a beauty contest. The new duchess had to accept a duke’s certificate as the female version, designed by Mrs. Warren Middleton, was not ready.

The original Duke of Paducah certificate, designed by Mrs. Elizabeth Hurst Bunchman, a teacher at Jackson School, portrayed a rather foppish gent with top hat and monocle holding a cigarette. Later, Mayor Murphy removed the cigarette. Currently the seal of the city, replete with legendary Chief Paduke, adorns the document.

Recipients of the ducal titles range from beauty queens to presidents. Since 1988, a varied mix is evident. Julia Anguelova was a visitor from Bulgaria. Katherine Peden had been a candidate for governor of Kentucky. Others receiving awards include Albert Gore, Jr. then U.S. senator; George Crounce, local shipping magnate and benefactor of education; former governor Brerton Jones; U.S. Representative Joe Kenndy; President George Bush; and real bluegrass royalty Rick Pitino. Thousands of people have received awards as Paducah nobility over the years.

Whitey Ford, the original Duke of Paducah, began his performing career in 1922 when he formed his own Dixieland jazz band. He played medicine shows, burlesques, tent shows and vaudeville. Some 20 years later in 1943, Ford joined the Grand Ole Opry and was featured on other radio shows: The Jax All-Star Jubilee, the Duke of Paducah Show, and the Purina Show. A collection of the Duke’s scripts from some of these shows can be found at the Emory University Library.

New Notes for Old Walls

by Caleb Buford

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MANY YEARS, MUSIC FILLED THE AUDITORIUM OF THE FORMER Walter C. Jetton Middle School this spring. On one special evening, the strolling-paced clacks of high heels and dress shoes hitting the concrete sidewalks blended with the anticipatory conversations of patrons as they approached the hall which once was host to the original Paducah Symphony Orchestra. The glow of amber accent lights that line the lobby’s ceiling shone through the classic transom-style windows, showcasing the historical venue merging with new, state-of-the-art technology as patrons entered for the grand opening concert. The evening was yet another milestone moment for the Paducah Symphony Orchestra as it opens doors for new possibilities in Paducah’s arts and music scene.

While opening night was a sight and sound to behold as the symphony came to life at Maestro Raffaele Ponti’s direction, Paducah Symphony Orchestra’s re-opening weekend was an eventful few days that brought a renewed sense of arts participation. This included the Paducah Singer’s Sunday concert, Where The Spirit Flows, that featured a newly commissioned choral piece, Music in the Soft Air.

geers ah S Paaduc Thhe T

ing

Avveritt t Bode Rober William A

e We inger aducah S ounder of P co-fo lack, ler B ow ed F shar ” ould do, one c every the chops to do some music that not who still had foolks g wanted ed, he etir Art r “AAfter Dew Art , and the late atalie Krupansky N lack, ocum B Yo y ler and Emil Fow by o-foounded al ensemble c essional chor fe pr y s onl egion’ s is the r inger aducah S P of f Y

erts at onc al c ormed chor fo Singer aducah , P year in their eighth Now ” e as possible. al experienc chor y a with as high aducah vide P o anted to pr w

usan . S Dr y ected b dir w ensemble, no The . oughout the city enues thr v various

ost of a. M Orchestr ymphony aducah S P at the ompany esident c r enport, is a v Dav

eese. “ to brin together f f s. “W quality s has perf a amming end f ne opportunity; a eated f

is an ode to r ft oft Music in children, ee their thr by y M Waally and of Gerry y emiere. to pr ingers aducah S or the P fo cr work commissioned a w all, opened up a H ymphony s S PSO’ or the fo week and opening the gr ert, during onc ch c ar Their M works. published ly of classic or new onsisted has c g ogr s pr ’ oup the gr

Commissioned in memor W ontgomery the So Air

Waashington opolitan and etr otel M the H al landmarks such as with cultur along Wheeler Mary y ollected b as c w that workers ver oustabout ri music of the r the g s rich history Paducah’ isanodeto Musicin theSo , highlighting W

The eight- ch. aptist Chur eet B Str

ettist eritt and libr v Av William composer y eated b as cr w e al piec ement chor mov

Th eritt and Bode v Av Robert Bode. Both

A

ve aducah nati P a v Av homecoming. as a w eritt, it v Av foor P

eritt and Bode v Av etton Middle School. om J aduated fr who attended and gr

wonderful wonderful, eat to be home and to be part of this s so gr “It’ oncert. e at the c e in attendanc wer

n is w the to why ve—that’sfoormati v . “The ri Air ft oft Music in of esentation e the pr foor with the audienc ed eritt shar v Av celebration,”

visiting st time s fir ’ as Bode w t ch. I esear or their initial r fo visited Paducah f aducah but, f A A eritt is a A A e bef the So er is so f

ed that the fir eritt shar v Av ”here.

er and v er to the ri fe ements r v ee mo st thr

ef

e of the onfluenc e of the c —the importanc aducah history e on P its influenc

al Line the Illinois Centr g astructur onic infr of ic eflect on the history es r e piec v The other fi 7 flood. and the notable 193 workers, ver oustabout ri s, the heritage of the r ver ennessee Ri Te hio and O

e and locations including W f erful poetry ansient text-paintin oring that f es the musical history of poems as being A ed. “You try

While they ingers. aducah S with the P rests w e no e of the piec The futur ” e so that it looks its best. the pictur ame to set off to use the right fr y Yo eritt shar v Av ” e, ound the pictur ar frame e a bit lik rite is a w es—and the music I e pictur lik g ys think wa aducah. “I al of P y feeatur g and sc om the ensemble ocals fr v virtuosic with highlighted g tr and y w blend of po es a feeatur work ommissioned The c ch. aptist Chur eet B Str Waashington opolitan, and etr otel M The H otel, oad, the Irvin Cobb H Railr

aducah As P “A Black ” to change our use of it, g it’ ’t, ut if it doesn . B credibility a es it extr v f it gets published, that just gi “I epertoire. part of their r e it a intend to mak y lack orm, B fo al ensembles to essional chor fe or other pr fo g ar

n and, as shar w e kno esenc made its pr has r ft oft Music in w, or no ouse. F Art H ations at the Columbia renov ontinued enue and the c v s new PSO’ g ebirths,” alongside other local r es some of these piec g v d lo we eas, ertain ar es strides in c mak

st e the fir foor Black y ed b

walls.” or old fo w eat to hear “ s gr ement began, it’ mov

e hopin to see it published f of perf notes that they s not goin explained. “ ’ e to sin noting the So Ai right bef new notes f

eekend. ’s grand opening w ymphony

aducah ork during the P commissioned choral w wly- formed a ne

aducah Singers per he P

collection e a wer oustabouts The r roustabouts? the ho were Wh W

om s fr worker ver male ri lack of B

ating hills to oper y up steep mudd rggo g Fr 1900s. y the late 1800s to the earl

om loadin and carrying car

er locks and docking bar

s of er e the labor wer roustabouts ges, the rg g riv

dthbk hli thi

These aducah. ns such as P w of to

om. ofited fr pr y v that the ri conditions g and li g w poor ages and w w ed lo viduals endur indi

ed on the banks v who li ver the ri orking ving er industry

aducah, om P ologist fr music a Wheeler, ary the 1930s, M g

er to document v hio Ri eled the O v trav

oustabouts after the songs of the r

n e. I fe v the decline of ri g

hio the O g the songs and cultur

foolk fe chiv an ar ollection, Wheeler c ary The M River.

ary of M y the famil y donated b aphs songs, notebooks, and photogr

During a noticing er lif Pbli k C hM

, that documented Songs Vaalley r Ohio f of Collection A Songs: t R Wheeler published her book, 1939, oustabout o River V e along e of nine cubic feet of f , is a ailable f viewing C chives. s ar Library’ en Cou cCrack the M Public y unty

at g foor v av Wheeler

McCr

f PhC MCraac of Phhoto Courtesy o

s an historic

as on these boa It w fronriver Paducah’s steamboats which p ation of th represent

ved abouts ser roust

This sternwheeler is bliLib k CP raary Pu cken County Public Libr d as deckhands ts that local 1800s late the in nt ers plied the riv ypes of he t

elp guide y et us h L

t K e. A v ou deser y

STRONG

WOMEN E

THEM, HIRE , but w g la acticin on pr now e k y with th nejour : E THEM. during g en osterin on f ommitmen d c ledge an t cess. our suc e y o ensur e t er e h en of KKHB ar om e w ges, th hallen er legal c g, or oth plannin e s, estat ter ess mat er it's busin eth e. Wh xcellenc d e , an espect , r t on trust elationships buil r jp ode e QR c g th scannin y e b ebsit isit our w V

THEM, BE ot just ocus n e f , w KHB our legal j ough y ou thr

OldJudgePriest

the rocky hills of Trigg County. Young William received a common school education. Later, he attended Transylvania University at Lexington. He came to Ballard County where he taught five terms of school. It was in his 20th year that he began reading law under Oscar Turner at North Ballard. This was in 1859.

After service in the Confederacy, Judge Bishop returned to teaching school and practicing law. On January 29, 1867, he married Miss Mollie A. Hart, a native of Tennessee.

When Judge Bishop was around 40, he was elected Common Pleas Judge of the First Judicial District. It was at this time that Judge Bishop said farewell to Ballard County, though he kept his house and lot at Blandville. In the early eighties he moved his family to Paducah.

In 1891, he was chosen Circuit Judge, serving a six-year term. It was around this time he came in contact with 17-year-old Cobb. Cobb was taken to Bishop’s once by his father’s friend, Colonel Joel Shrewsberry for whom he was named. Young Cobb listened carefully to the conversations of Shrewsberry and Bishop about the battles and the lost cause of the Confederacy. Their war experiences were to go into the Judge Priest stories and bring Cobb success as a writer. A close scrutiny of these tales will acquaint the reader with many famous local people who were prominent in the area between the Civil War and up to about 1912.

Judge Bishop really lived at 929 Broadway, where he walked a brick passageway leading to an iron gate at the sidewalk for more than 20 years on his way to the McCracken County Court House.

In Cobb’s stories about Judge Priest, we find him quietly befriending and meddling constructively in the lives of shy little people who have been cheated, helping a Madam in a house of ill repute give a church funeral for one of her girls, (the old Red Light district near the McCracken County court house?), assisting his war buddies, aiding his nephew who was running against a silly aristocrat ass and tried to duel; fought quietly for foreigners, widows and encouraged two brothers to make up after a 50-year silence that began during the Civil War.

Cobb wrote that Priest lived on Clay Street with his cook, Aunt Diley, and Jeff Poindexter, his crap-shooting man servant. However, the late Fred Newman said that

While no mention of it has ever been printed, the campaigns that Alben Barkley master-minded seem to follow the same paths that Judge Priest took. It was the custom of the Judge to get his old horse and buggy and go out in the country on Sunday. Seemingly he never knew exactly where he might eat. The first likely-looking house he saw where there was a group gathered became his headquarters. He gave his horse to the older boy, patted all the children, many of whom were his name sakes and settled in a porch rocker. The ladies began wringing chicken’s necks. The men sent word our for their neighbors to come and see Judge Priest. So great was their joy that he always easily carried the rural districts.

Judge Bishop sported a big chest, an unusually large head, and rather sharp classical features. His eyes were a

baby blue and could express almost any emotion without his uttering a word. His skin had a healthy rosy glow, and Cobb describes Judge Priest as having a bald dome. In manner, Judge Bishop had a childlike quality and was without pretense or affectations. He was supposed to be kind, generous to a fault, and completely above pettiness.

But probably it was his humor that set him apart from other men. He enjoyed all types of humor but was never obscene nor coarse and vulgar in his remarks. His wit was quick enough to allow him to go into the broadest farce. This was what enchanted Cobb, who is one of the greatest humorists that America ever produced, being out-ranked only by Mark Twain.

The judge died at 63 in 1902. The court house bells tolled as his body was taken to his sister’s home on Madison Street. His simple funeral was at the Broadway Methodist church and was conducted by the Rev. G.W. Briggs. He was buried at Oak Grove Cemetery under three pines.

The legacy that Oscar Turner, William Bishop, Irvin S. Cobb, and Alben W. Barkley left was the pungent quip and the droll comedy with one’s tongue in one’s cheek and eyes a sparkle. It developed from the folksy home-spun tales told by old foks that Paducah’s most prolific author felt compelled to narrate. It created a breed that laughed at themselves as heartily as they laughed with their neighbors.

Judge Bishop lived it, Irving Cobb immortalized it, and Alben Barkley personified it, and put western Kentucky on the map.

KelcieGratz

IN THE STILL OF THE LONG DARK night in the neonatal intensive care unit of Western Baptist Hospital, Kelcie Gratz tends the tiniest and most vulnerable of living beings. Babies born prematurely are in her loving care as are critically ill little ones. She administers intensive care to fragile infants until they are ready to face the big world outside the NICU. Along with nursing the babies to health, her vocation requires a great capacity for empathy as she deals with families of the little ones. Kelcie listens carefully to families’ concerns and she observes ever so carefully a myriad of details impacting the health of her patients and the peace of mind of their families.

draft agreed the story had merit and Kelcie should do something with it.

But what? With no literary background, Kelcie began to navigate the unfamiliar territory of publishing.

In reflecting on the quest to publish her work, Kelcie recounts, “If I put my mind to something, I’m determined to complete it. The same was true with publishing as it was with my nursing education.”

The same Kelcie Gratz, RN, BSN, who lovingly cares for babies and families by night, enters the dark world of schizophrenia, deceit, death, and deception by day. When her nursing shift is over and the sun comes up over the horizon, Kelcie Gratz transforms into K.B. Gratz, author.

Kelcie never had designs on being a writer but a story emerged from a combination of her medical background and family history all under the microscopic scrutiny of her keen observation skills. Friends that previewed a

Kelcie chose to self-publish through Amazon, and her first novella, The Experiment, came to be. Author K.B. Gratz had officially arrived. Garnering a 4.5-star rating on the readers’ platform Goodreads and seeing her novella published, she set out to pen a second book, Three Attempts: A Physiological Thriller. Her first success with self-publishing was certainly beneficial in getting the second book into print.

Gratz sites a quote from the horror film series, Saw, as her inspiration In choosing to write psychological

thrillers. She quotes from the movie, “You can’t help them. They have to help themselves.”

It’s this statement that drives her characters down their dark, twisty paths and fuels the unexpected consequences of plot twists. So appropriate is the quote, she uses it as an epigraph for her second book. Inspiration is also derived from the character of the Joker in The Batman series as a template for her characters; identifying them with the Joker’s psychopathic, schizophrenic, and totally apathetic character.

As a medical professional, it’s important to Kelcie to be factual in her writing when describing anything related to the medical field. One of her favorite authors is Freida McFadden, a neurosurgeon who writes psychological thrillers. Kelcie strives to emulate McFadden when it comes to writing medically accurate scenes and descriptions.

Kelcie Gratz, RN, BSN and K.B. Gratz, author, navigate the medical world and the literary world beautifully all while enjoying life with her husband, Luke and bonus daughter, Matti. Her household is rounded out with a golden Labrador Retriever named Bo and a Schnauzer, Finley.

Fans of her first two books are eagerly anticipating her third book which she hopes to publish before the end of the year.

Kelcie’s advice for aspiring writers is simple. “Commit your story to paper because if you don’t, it won’t be the same story tomorrow,” she advises. Secondly, she encourages, “Just do it.”

Protect the future of your family.

Protecting your family has been our mission for more than half a century. Our State Farm agency has been providing insurance coverage to friends and neighbors since the 1950s. So, many of our early clients are now grandparents (like Susan Waldon-Denton) ! If you are looking to secure a safe future for you, your children, and your grandchildren, call Susan or Mason and be a part of OUR family!

Susan Waldon-Denton is looking out for her own grandchildren Grady, Graham, Charlie, and Riley. / Linda Harper, Artist

Cr

ulliv

t reeaattiing ea gCONNECTIO

ockhasfoundher “museu BonnieSchr e D ecutiv National Quilt Museum Ex

ts at home and spans t ar y that st legac eady to build on an and is poised and r ock has found her Bonnie Schr

WHA O DO W ANT ME T OU W Y “

BONNIE

ship a e leader ecutiv eer in ex ear car 32-y up a as j w equest. Bonnie s r oeder’ edith Schr Mer useum (N ational Quilt M stood N misunder H SHE THOUGHT SCHROCK

when she got the surprising

a onic N s ic aducah’ ector of P ir e D ecutiv ome the Ex bec eredith om M call fr Health

the globe tistic n ar um legs” irector ational Quilt her to g aptist at B wrapping ust foounder QM HAD QM) f asking

A the annual g ov while c ation in the late 1980s inspir ed her q over . Bonnie disc or quilting fo per a ate management, and al orpor ommunications and c in c s o year he has 40 om 1983 to 1992. S WPSD fr anchor at repo as a w ealth, Bonnie aptist H e she joined B foor her hobbies.

?” T AT

s den, pur to quilt, gar etirement—ready n to r countdow he in disbelief. S g emember useum. Bonnie r M s laughing Bef sonal passion f ering s Societ ( ournalist. American quilting so possesses e of experienc s orter and new ue as on a w e

jo and Contest as a how ) Quilt S (AAQS y Quilter’

she met a couple from South Africa, another from Spokane, Washington, and someone from Barlow, all within about five minutes. Hosting visitors from 50 states and 40 countries, Bonnie is amazed at the distances people come to cross this visit off their bucket list.

Among the many unique experiences and programs at NQM, a current popular one is their exclusive VIP tours. The NQM director of collections, Laura Hendrickson, and Curator Rachael Baar, take people into the curatorial space, show them how to care for, pack, and store these artistic treasures.

The experience Bonnie is most proud of is a new STEAM program for K-12 students. Last September, she got a first look at an exhibit now open by Victoria Findlay Wolfe, “Option Expedition,” an enormous quilt exhibit with bold colors and big designs. “It’s a geometry lesson if I’ve ever seen one,” Bonnie said. She asked Dr. Claire Fuller, Dean of the Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology at Murray State University, if she would look at some quilts to see if they could collaborate to create a student experience. Dr. Fuller gathered the math and statistics instructors together to meet with Bonnie and Becky Glasby and the group-think resulted in the development of lesson plans that meet Kentucky’s geometry standards.

“It’s really exciting to see this develop,” Bonnie said. “We have had inquiries from a Southern Ohio Women in Engineering organization and a teacher from California. This demonstrates how we are looking at

meaningful connections that encourage companies and individuals to join with the work we are doing to preserve and display these beautiful quilts.”

Bonnie commented that she is truly having the time of her life. “People come in and are happy, excited, and delighted to be here. They are inspired and leave with such a positive sense of well-being. What we have here is truly a gift. If I feel stressed, I just walk in the gallery and marvel at the talent, creativity, and use of fabric, thread, and embellishments on this amazing collection of quilts.”

Current National Quilt Museum Exhibits

A Life in Color:

Caryl Bryer Fallert-Gentry

March 14 – October 7, 2025

Victoria Findlay Wolfe:

Option Expedition

January 24 – September 9, 2025

The National Quilt Museum Permanent Collection

270.442.8856

Tourism in PADUCAH

WHY 538,000 VISITORS MATTERED LAST YEAR ★

LAST YEAR, APPROXIMATELY 538,000 PEOPLE VISITED

Paducah, according to recent data from Placer.ai. But they’re not just passing through. These visitors are supporting local businesses, attending Paducah events, and spending money that helps our economy thrive.

To better understand who our visitors are and how to welcome more of them, the Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) invested in detailed visitor research in 2024. That research is now guiding the work of the marketing, sales, and visitor services teams who tell Paducah’s story.

So, who’s coming?

“Rural Retail and Restaurant Goers” and “Quick Family Trippers” often drive in from nearby towns for shopping, dining, and fun with the family. “Weekend Escape Artists” hail from surrounding cities looking

The Paducah Convention and Visitors Bureau daily welcomes visitors and guests to our UNESCO Creative City. Last year, more than 538,000 people explored Paducah and got a taste of our exceptional hospitality.

for a unique, relaxing getaway filled with local flavor and small-town charm.

Our UNESCO Creative City status attracts “Creative Cravers” who seek out our vibrant arts scene, local galleries, and cultural experiences. And “Time Travelers” are drawn by Paducah’s riverfront history, historic architecture, and authentic storytelling.

These visitors aren’t just sightseeing, they’re boosting our economy. In 2023, tourism in Paducah-McCracken County generated $319.1 million in economic impact and supported more than 2,400 local jobs.

That’s thanks in large part to the strategic efforts of the CVB team, driving interest, converting visits, and creating a warm welcome once visitors arrive.

Looking ahead to spring and summer 2025, the CVB is focused on raising awareness, inspiring travel through storytelling, and inviting more people to explore Paducah in their own way. The more we understand our visitors, the better we can welcome them and the stronger our community becomes because of it.

t he St rawberr y

REIGNED SUPREME IN THE ‘40s

T★

HE STRAWBERRY QUEEN AMIDST A FIELD OF RIPE BERRIES

is one of the riverfront murals so brilliantly depicted by muralist Robert Dafford. It is one of the most colorful of the current murals and depicts a time in Paducah’s history when this agricultural endeavor reigned supreme in farm fields across the area. An article from a 1956 Paducah Sun Democrat newspaper article provides a flavor of what the strawberry festival meant to the citizens of that era. It read in part…

“Completion of the strawberry harvest in Western Kentucky at one time was the occasion for the area’s largest annual festival. Weeks of preparation were climaxed in Paducah by the several-day-long West Kentucky Strawberry Festival. Beautiful girls were the order of the day, a miles-long parade with multitudes of floats drew thousands of spectators—Her Royal Highness, the Strawberry Queen, reigned over the event—special wooden coins were accepted currency in downtown stores—persons danced in the street as Western Kentucky celebrated a bountiful harvest of their major cash crop.

One of the greatest festivals ever was staged in 1940. The three-day event had all the “Mardi Gras” trimmings, including a three-night showing of a historical spectacle entitled “Our Yesterdays.” Held at Keiler Field, the spectacle featured scenes from the historical past of Paducah ranging from a council fire at the village of Pekin in 1811 to the turn of the century. The pageant re-enacted the Jackson Purchase, the first settlers, when Pekin came to Paducah, the first wedding in the village, early worship and early schools, War Between the States battles fought here and many others.

Truly strawberries were a way of life in McCracken County as recently as 15 years ago. Many there are who hope the situation will again exist.”

A........ . theNat CCORD

turalHistory TO DING

eshwate s and fr oyster e mad ar Museum the N al def itant to foorms f--pearl” material int, a agile heir fr their g nst an irritant er mussels as a marine y de b earls m, “P al History tur tering f

ound the irri shell ar a mother-of n as “ know om that poi Fr ”body. shell or damage to th asite ent par such as a ense again fe natur

P rllsPeear of s

do Wiis W ERS om f

CHA OR TE F

. andpainfulinjuriesb

weathe sh es, har failur e he fac tlantic. S A the of irritants on her jou e had TooriMcClur eases to exist. c eci the irritant, the pr oce not-so pleasant pr beautiful pearl is bo A yster and otect the o pr T butdespite onditions, er c ed technical ossacr y d no shortage ious pearl Without ess. om a orn fr d…PRESTO! urney

en ed childr v our belo to mind, but so do th e s c er e offic and polic rgge daily on a who per people many beautiful. and turned her exper ye d outer la har with a , she encas everything and painful injuries, b something basis; sur After all, s of he teacher come ertainly s, eons, soldier ect this skill fe e e ar Ther e into rienc ve er to survi self sed her but despite rf

t was Sttorm wi conjunction K t We by d for Wisisdom f of Mid Paaducah P o W hosted West theS a va S Amy by Faacultystaff d s ’s the

Kate r raade l ddle Schoo eighth-gr teache T winning essa Kentuck T visit o T year’ featured novelF ulliv n were communitymembers d ff in l Pe A whose book, McClure was in he competition Th College. l contest d R e 2025 One Book

M Murden Toori author f a of t the th Teechnical y Community and ky th y in ay g her in Teeachers”

t together to come R he One Book Th a ra among torm, the S the entr T wa to pa w s ’s g Fo the Atlantic. across b f of g ’s to ute h Th book. d ’s o discuss each , en r, 7th its 1 project, now in dp while the community category for nts aculty, staff year novel F ead year year’s selected T the author’s inspiring story o

Peearls d off t e Lambert offered some “P ead T Pearl aff and

ollowing is Kate Lambert’ ayy. g to row solo woman first the eing great was a y contest ay ’s is groups offaarea ages a ra division. own r students had community members , their cour variety of year’s essa winning essa

ould be. w task diffi w or ho fo prepar , b expect it to be easy to teach older studen h onmy elt a fe y e, I enjo cClur e M lik w one told me I Every mi a gr at an elementary ade English at a and f tug ed f fficult this new as not w but I nts. I did not heartstrings challenge a , but azy as cr iddle school. ool to 8th

scho y o witch fr decided to s n a . O year school this n ex ow y me than in m er has this run Nev classrooms. these qualities inside and passion; so too m e determination, c v av ea oss an oc acr ow to r ha atanelementary oolto8th om teaching , I wild hair e at xperienc foor g sAmerica’ e avve consistency, ou must y an must one ha ng truer f F trib y ay y ay

Kate Lambert Pearls of Wisdom

The challenges were many and seemed insurmountable those first few weeks. I was faced with serious behavior issues, trying to earn student trust and respect while still setting boundaries, and perhaps the most difficult aspect, finding ways to motivate students to learn. Each new day seemed to leave me with more questions than answers and “I chose this” became my daily mantra. Even though I had 17 years of experience as a successful teacher, I felt like it was year one! I was completely shaken, with my confidence barely scraping the bottom of the barrel and my worst fear that I dared not to say aloud was, “I have made a huge mistake.” However, I knew my students were depending on me to show up and give them my very best, no matter the circumstances. In A Pearl in the Storm, McClure says, “Reprimands will not bring the waves into line. Anger will not alter the wind. Sadness will not bring back the Gulf Stream. The greatest freedom allotted to any human being is the freedom to choose one’s attitude.” It’s my attitude that sets the tone for my classroom. The students take their cue from me, and I needed to put on my big girl pants and ride out this storm.

"One of the most important lessons I learned was to not let fear stand in the way of your dreams."

Day-by-day, the students started making slow, but sure, progress. They softened, I relaxed, and everyone started learning, most especially me. One of the most important lessons I learned was to not let fear stand in the way of your dreams. Change is scary; you must meet new people, learn new routines, and get out of your comfort zone, but if you really love something, it’s always worth facing that fear and pushing yourself to places you never thought you could go. Another valuable lesson learned was how to get more comfortable with not controlling everyone and everything around you. Sometimes the tighter we hold on to something, the more likely it is to slip away or worse, be crushed by what was only meant to be an act of love. When you relinquish control, you let go and let the experience change you, many times for the better.

Michael

These adventures in teaching can readily be compared to lessons learned and wisdom gained on McClure’s ocean journey. What I know for sure is that the students, much like the waves in the ocean, will beat against you and break your heart. But, like any well-crafted boat, that very same heart can be put back together again, until it is fully whole and ticking along even better than before. There is a realness and a rawness to the experience that is messy and beautiful, all at the same time. It is in this mess that we are growing; sometimes together, but sometimes charting our own course with each student having their own set of coordinates. McClure tells us, “As long as the union between mind and body remains intact, I will cling to the idea that outcomes can be influenced, actions taken, and obstacles overcome.” As the year marches on, we realize that we are each the captains of our own ship; we all have challenges to accept, the responsibility and fortitude to face them, and a destination as unique as each sand dollar in the sea.

When you are born with a heart for helping people, every child you don’t save can feel like a personal failure. You can easily become adrift and lose sight of all the successes, all the love, and the many miles of progress you have achieved. McClure reminds us that, “You’re not going to save the world. All you can do is pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living.” That is exactly what I plan on doing with my students, day in and day out, as sure as the rhythm of the tides and the rising of the sun. My metaphorical journey across the Atlantic is not complete; I will keep rowing against wind and rain and seemingly impossible odds until I reach the shore, brilliant and shining.

Warmest congratulations! —Shelby Cave Cobb

MORE THAN A BANKER. YOUR PERSONAL FRAUD COACH.

Lauren Wyatt

Paducah Bank Fraud Control Specialist

AT PADUCAH BANK, protecting our community means more than securing your money—it means empowering you to stay one step ahead of the scammers. That’s why Lauren Wyatt, our dedicated Fraud Control Specialist, doesn’t just monitor threats—she coaches our customers, giving them the tools and knowledge to spot scams before they strike. From text messages to emails to phone calls, fraudsters are using every device they can. But you’re not alone—we're here to help. And this summer, we’re taking protection a step further. Join us for our Scam Jam and Shredder Event on June 12—a free opportunity to learn, ask questions, and safely destroy old documents that could put your information at risk. At Paducah Bank, we’re not just your bank—we’re your partner in protection.

Visit paducahbank.com to learn more. /