Paducah Life Magazine - July/August 2024

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • $ 2.95

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Brett Woodall THE LEADING MAN IN PADUCAH’S NEW FILM INDUSTRY

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67 Ode to the Cicada

contents

july/august 2024 ★ from the editor page 5 ★ last word page 68

12 Tom Putnam and Robin Reed 19 Cassidy’s Cause Is Center Stage 23 Denver Abell Is Movie Extra 30 Goodman/Waldon Musical Update

6

PADUCAH’S NEW LEADING MAN

35 St. Mary Student Wins Duck Stamp Award

38 Day in the Life of the Coroner 45 UK Engineering Paducah Offers BS Degree

51 Rocket Club Blasts Off 54 Gaming Gurus Go National 58 Martial Arts Champs Go to Greece 63 Mark Edwards Gallops To Winner’s Circle

26 Carson Beyer Living Harmonious Life Visit us at paducahlife.com ★ SEE AND HEAR MORE OF THE FEATURES IN THIS ISSUE ON

2 • PADUCAH LIFE

VOLUME 34, EDITION 3

executive editor/ P U B L I S H E R Darlene M. Mazzone

associate E D I TO R S Stephanie Watson J.T. Crawford Amanda Hutchison Amy Clevidence

art D I R E C TO R Scott McWilliams

associate art D I R E C TO R Amanda Newman

editorial P H OTO G R A P H Y Amy Wright

cover P H OTO G R A P H Y Brad Rankin

on the C OV E R Brett Woodall

Paducah Life is published six times a year for the Paducah area. All contents copyright 2024 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.

Celebrate LIFE in Paducah!

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★

5 1 5 0 H E A RT L A N D D R I V E

from the

EDITOR

M

y Yankee husband has proven to be both perceptive and prolific.

Knowing that I’m a bit of an Anglophile, he promptly planned a honeymoon to London. (Well done!)

And on the way home, we landed at LaGuardia so that his sprawling Italian family could toast us in the way only Italian families can.

In addition, we did ALL the New York things—top of the Empire State, Lady Liberty, Canal Street, Wall Street, Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and . . . Broadway!

The visage of the parting curtains, the pulsating rhythms coming from the orchestra pit, and the opening scene of A Chorus Line will forever remain some of the most enticing deposits in my honeymoon memory bank.

I grew up watching late night black and white movies with my grandmother on our larger-than-life television set which took up much of the space in our living room. On our also massive stereo (we barely had room for a couch), we listened to stacks of albums loaded onto a spindle which dropped one of our favorites after another—Beach Boys for me and Andy Williams for my mom.

My family and I watched the likes of Bonanza, Dr. Kildare, and Gunsmoke with regularity. A Saturday night at the movies at the Columbia Theater in downtown Paducah was, for a girl who drove 40 miles to stand in line for a ticket, an artistic spectacle unequaled in my spare young world of entertainment.

So, it’s little wonder that as publisher of Paducah Life Magazine we have, for nearly 35 years now, filled our pages with homages to those who perform, produce, and curate creativity in our little UNESCO town! (Don’t forget we won the prestigious Governor’s Award for the Arts in the Media in 2016 for our undying support of all things arty.)

This edition is no different. Our lead features are a print version of a welcome mat for the arrival of Brett Woodall and Tom Putnam, who are partners in Commonwealth Creative Entertainment. These two visionaries are setting out to build a film production studio right here in our midst. They’ve already completed one film and are now working on a second. It’s a pretty big deal which will ultimately be played out on a big screen.

So, we’re rolling out the red carpet for our new friends and perhaps a budding new industry, that will elevate our artistic reputation to ever greater heights.

Lights, camera, ACTION!

Darlene M. Mazzone darlene@paducahlife.com

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 5

Brett Woodall The Leading Man in Paducah’s New Film Industry

★

by DA RLEN E MAZZONE

6 • PADUCAH LIFE

In Hollywood, the leading man is a bit of a movie stereotype. But, then again, that all depends on the context.

Brett Woodall has had many diverse leading roles in his young life and career.

First and foremost, he’s a western Kentucky native. He did some acting as a kid. He wrestled at his high school in St. Louis. He served as a Phoenix Raven Team Leader in the U.S. Air Force, traveling to more than 90 countries in support of several federal departments and dignitaries, both foreign and domestic including the President of The United States. He has consulted for Fortune 500 companies and both state and federal agencies in management and strategy. He even did stand-up comedy in D.C. and Los Angeles after returning from tours in Afghanistan.

Brett contends that perhaps all of his leadership experiences and areas of expertise have ultimately brought him to the role he is currently taking on as the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Commonwealth Creative Entertainment . . . in Paducah!

“After getting my degree when I got out of the service and working in a variety of management and consulting roles, it became apparent to me that that really wasn’t where I wanted to be in my life,” Brett remembers. “I’ve actually always liked performing. But after the stand-up gigs and writing on some projects, I realized that I really didn’t love it as much as I enjoyed the facilitation of other creatives; putting the pieces together to make things the best they can be.

I wanted to step back a bit. That’s when I discovered I am of value most behind the scenes.”

So, with the encouragement and support of some of his friends and colleagues, Brett put together a short film in 2018 called PCH which he says was a “run and gun,” which apparently translates to low budget and quick turn-around.

In 2022, he was the Executive Producer for a film titled Why Don’t You Like Me?, produced in conjunction with The American Film Institute. And with that, and his collaboration with Tom Putnam on several other film projects, Brett began to screen out the distractions and focus on the possibilities.

“I was working with Bryce Fishman, a mentor/friend as well as an accomplished producer, and we began having these long talks about being a producer. At one point, she said, you’re good at this job. If you’re looking for some kind of permission to start doing this, you have mine. That gave me the confidence to green light my new career track. She was basically shaking me awake. That was when the boots hit the pavement,” Brett recalls.

Thankfully for all of us around these parts, that pavement led to the streets of Paducah, Kentucky; specifically North 8th Street where Brett’s great-grandfather once owned and operated a construction company.

“I’ve always considered Paducah home. This is where my family is, and it’s continuously been a draw,” says Brett.

So, when the idea of a film production company took hold with his partner, Tom, his mind drifted to the building he had so often frequented as a young man.

Paul Duncan Construction “It was amazing to get to walk through the building and kind of hear the story it tells from the historic setting still much intact as it was when I used to play here,” says Brett. “This is such a huge part of my story and my family’s story in the town we love so much. I didn’t expect it to be as emotional for me as it was, walking back into that environment.”

Paul Duncan, Brett’s great-grandfather, played a significant role in the life of this young entrepreneur as well as in the growth of Paducah. “Getting the opportunity to tell my great grandfather’s story and then to bring it all forward to my generation is something I genuinely cherish,” Brett says.

Our editorial photographer Amy Wright was privileged to do a walk-through with Brett for our lead feature in this

8 • PADUCAH LIFE

“Getting the opportunity to tell my great grandfather’s story and then to bring it forward to my generation is something I genuinely cherish.”

—BRETT WOODALL

BrettWoodall

edition. She was almost as awed as Brett, commenting that it was much like walking onto a movie set. “This little shop has so many stories to tell and I can’t wait to do what I can to make sure it has many more down the road,” Brett admits. “It’s crazy that so little has changed. From the Berber carpet walls to the worn spot where my great grandfather’s desk chair sat, to the foldable measuring stick that I used to play with, the memories are all still within view.”

Brett has a new view of this light industrial corridor on North 8th Street, however. “As we build out this business, we are going to need a variety of technical support services for efficient film production. I would love to see this area become a center for trades that serve the production needs of all the future films coming here.”

Soon Tom and Brett were spreading the word beyond the river city. Tom was working on a project in Oklahoma which, due to some unexpected changes, was seeking a new location. “The team came to Paducah, and I was able to show them the town and the surrounding counties through the lens of a local. They literally and immediately fell in love with it,” Brett adds. Consequently, the upcoming film Born to Lose will start production here in the late summer—along with others thanks to Brett and Tom, who see an industry just waiting to take hold.

“There is a sound foundation in Paducah to make this work,” Brett believes. “There are problems to solve, but we’ll work all that out. There is support for the idea. There are resources and a workforce that can be developed. A lot of that development is already underway.

The community is the big thing that makes this place so unique. We already have one film under our belt here, so the path forward is wide open as long as we keep the community in the front of our minds and learn from our mistakes.”

Kaitlyn’s Chance Making The Move (and Movies!)

So, when Brett found out that his collaborator, Tom Putnam, was considering moving to Paducah from Los Angeles, the script started to be written for a future film company headquartered here.

“I can’t say enough about how helpful and enthusiastic Mary Hammond was at the CVB when we made the decision to locate the company here.” Brett recalls. “Mary connected us to all the right people and organizations.

Every direction to which she pointed us turned out to be immensely helpful. She introduced us to the staff at Paducah Economic Development and the directors of the Kentucky Film office in Frankfort. She was knowledgeable about grant opportunities and financial resources that became invaluable to us. I will forever credit Mary and the Paducah team with helping us get Commonwealth Creative off the ground. Like so many others, we wouldn’t be able to do what we’re doing without her.”

10 • PADUCAH LIFE

Not only did Commonwealth Creative Entertainment bring in more than 60 people, including actors Jaime King, Jennifer Taylor, and Sean Patrick Flanery, to work on the film Kaitlyn’s Chance with Cassidy’s Cause as the backdrop, they also invested in the facility’s future.

“One of the things that makes our production company different is that we not only want to create a film industry here, we also want to build a community here. It’s our home,” Brett explains. “In LA and other industry hubs, the mentality is generally more on seeing the people and film locations as resources. Everything is very transactional.

We, and our partners, want to take an approach of ‘investing’ in the people and locations we work with on a local basis. We want to be a complimentary part of the community, looking to make our hometown better because of our presence here. From the get-go, we suggested the Kaitlyn’s Chance production make a

$10,000 contribution to Cassidy’s Cause for structural improvements.

These changes aided in the efficiency of filming and also provided a basis for enhancements to the services of the facility’s clients. The Kaitlyn’s Chance production team saw the value in those improvements, not only to the production, but to the future of Cassidy’s Cause, and generously made the contribution.

That was a great first step forward and not something many other productions would’ve done. It made me very proud to be their partner on our first Paducah project.”

Roll The Credits Brett Woodall and Tom Putnam are looking at Paducah through a brand-new lens.

“Both Tom and I firmly believe that Paducah, and this region, is prime for developing a film production business, and larger industry, that can not only sustain our company and our visual expectations, but that can also provide a canvas for lots of other entities to arrive on the scene,” Brett acknowledges.

“That’s why we’re working consistently now to try and create the kinds of creative and technical resources that will need to be available to other potential production companies and individuals that will eventually call Paducah home.”

Brett also sees their entrepreneurial endeavor as a flagship venture that can serve to form a pipeline for other types of corporate companies to look at Paducah. “If us, why not them?” Brett asks. “Why not take everything we have at our disposal, which is a lot, in this amazing small town and elevate it to the next level.

All kinds of industries. We’re beyond ready. We deserve it.

Let’s do this!”

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 11

★

by DA RLEN E MA ZZON E

Artists& Entrepreneurs Two Veteran California Creatives Literally Picked Paducah Out of a Line-up of Potential Destinations to Start a LIFE Experience They Now Call Home

12 • PADUCAH LIFE

Tom Putnam & Robin Reed

Artists & Entrepreneurs

IN 2000, ARTIST MARK BARONE WATCHED FROM HIS SECOND STORY window in historic Lower Town as a drug deal took place beneath him. At that moment, Mark envisioned something much more for his beloved neighborhood than squatters in abandoned buildings and syringes left beneath 19th century balconies. Within a year, Paducah’s Artist Relocation Program was a reality. Mark became more than an artist; he became an entrepreneur.

When Tom Putnam and Robin Reed began to search for cities that met their criteria for a new place to put down their creative roots, something Melanie Reason said shot through to their very core. “Melanie told us that in Paducah, artists were considered entrepreneurs,” remembers Tom. “And that’s just not something you hear from many municipalities.” After their conversation with Melanie, the duo investigated the Artist Relocation Program begun by Barone nearly 25 years ago. They were impressed with Paducah’s UNESCO creative city designation and a community that places such value on the importance of the arts.

But it wasn’t until Tom and Robin popped into the Silver Bullet one night during their visit that Tom’s future formation of a creative corporate entity came to fruition.

Tom had been working with a young film producer named Brett Woodall. The two had worked on several projects but had never actually met. The night Tom and Robin bellied up to the bar at the Bullet, Tom made quick friends with some locals, snapped a spirited photo, and posted it on Instagram. Before Tom could pop another top in Paducah’s prototypical pub, he saw a call from Brett who promptly posed the question, “What the hell are you doing in Paducah?” To which Tom replied, “I’m gonna move here!” To which Brett replied, “That’s where I’m from!” To which Tom replied, “WHAT?!?!”

The origin of birth conversation had just never materialized between these two friends and colleagues. But suddenly, two visionary creatives were headed to the river city to ultimately form Commonwealth Creative Entertainment—Tom from Los Angeles and Brett from Nashville.

“Robin and I have been involved in the film industry for many years and the expense and the stress of LA was beginning to wear on us in a negative way,” says Tom. “So, we drew on a series of maybe 40 data points to literally begin looking around the country for a great place to live and work. As we worked our way through our list of priorities, Paducah kept popping up.”

“The other finalist was a town called Brattleboro, Vermont,” adds Robin. “I grew up in New England and it seemed like it might be a nice fit, but then . . . we thought about the weather. After 72 and sunny, that was a bit much. So next on the list was Paducah.”

Robin laughingly said that she was a little nervous when they arrived on the scene. “We had been working on our search for almost a year. It was like going on a dating app. What if it wasn’t a good fit? What if it didn’t measure up? What if we didn’t have fun together?” But one stop at the Bullet and who could resist? Paducah’s Remote Worker Incentive package was icing on the cake, they add, along with some surprising cultural amenities for a town our size. “The presence of the Carson Center, the Quilt Museum, and the symphony told us—here, there are like-minded people,” Tom concludes. So, now they’re each starting a business and looking for a house.

14 • PADUCAH LIFE

Tom Putnam DIRECTOR / PRODUCER

Tom Putnam is an award-winning director, producer, and writer whose many adventures have taken him into burning buildings with America’s busiest firefighters, stranded him in an unmarked minefield in Alaska, led him into lava tunnels deep underground with David Cross, and taken him on tour with infamous rappers Insane Clown Posse. He also directed Paris Hilton, which is the only shoot that still gives him nightmares. (You’ll have to ask.)

His past films have played more than 700 film festivals, from Sundance to Cannes, been released theatrically worldwide, and won more than 50 major awards including two Spirit Awards, the Grand Jury Prize at the SXSW Film Festival, and the Audience Award at the Tribeca Film Festival.

His documentary features include the Detroit firefighting film BURN, one of the highest-grossing documentaries in history; the follow-up BURN X, which was the #1 documentary on iTunes; THE UNITED STATES OF INSANITY about Insane Clown Posse’s ACLU-backed lawsuit against the FBI, released on 600+ screens; and two-time Spirit award-winner MARWENCOL, often voted one of the best documentaries of all time by critics around the world.

His more recent fiction feature, the comedy/adventure THE DARK DIVIDE, stars David Cross and Debra Messing, with music by the The Avett Brothers and Nirvana’s Krist Novoselic. All five films have a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Prior to his documentary work, Tom was a show runner and director for the LG Action Sports World Championships series on CBS. He has also directed commercial campaigns for Ford, General Motors, Kimberly-Clarke, the Air Force, and numerous firefighting organizations.

Tom is a graduate of the University of Southern California with degrees in Cinematic Arts and Journalism. He also has an MBA from St. Mary’s University. For clips and more info visit tomputnam.net.

Artists & Entrepreneurs

Made In The Midwest Quickly after their serendipitous mind meld in the Midwest, Tom and Brett started to fuse their connection into a solid business plan. The two recently finished a feature called Kaitlyn’s Chance which just wrapped up filming with Paducah’s Cassidy’s Cause as a backdrop. A local documentary feature is in the works and the new venture is getting consistent queries about potential productions. “We truly thought we’d be looking at a two- or three-year build-out when we started making plans,” Tom says. “So now we’re dealing with the best problem to have— that of getting more calls than we could have imagined. We’re now figuring out how to grow faster than we anticipated.”

It’s fair to say that Tom and Robin view Paducah through perhaps a different “lens” than other business concerns. “Every artist we’ve spoken to who moved here has said that this is a place where you can take risks. That truly intrigued us. In places like LA, every day is practically a sprint to just cover the basic expenses. There’s no time to work on a script or tackle a special project. Almost all your time has to be applied to just Director/ making ends meet,” Tom explains.

Produc stars Da vid Cros er Tom Putnam However, that’s just one of the many s (Arres and Deb ted Dev with ra M elopm facets of LIFE in Paducah that these set of h essing (Will an d Grace ent ) is featu re film T ) on the California creatives found impressive. he Dark Divide. a way that nothing really has since. I’ve “We keep telling our friends on the found success and accolades, but I want West Coast about it,” says Robin, to get back to my inner creative. We “and someone said to us, that sounds like a were only here 24 hours when we both made-up town! But then we fill them in about what we’ve said: Oh, this is a place where you can be a bike messenger found here PLUS the fact that you can buy a house that by day and still actually make things.” looks like a library, and then the conversation gets very real There seems to be a bit of modern-day Lewis and Clark very quickly.” within these visionary transplants as they discover a place For Robin, the community was a bit reminiscent of days they not only sought but found. Tom explains that he visited gone by. “I went to school in Massachusetts in a small town an early SXSW event in Austin when it was just starting where there was a lot of art and restaurants and local shopup, and he is likening Paducah to that initial off-the-radar keepers; where you felt like an integral part of the aura of the experience. “I think Paducah feels like that,” Tom suggests. place,” Robin remembers. “Then I did some experimental “Here is a place alive with potential that perhaps no one theater in New York, and even though I had to manage the has fully discovered.” These two explorers seem wholly expense of living on the East Coast, the work fed my soul in

16 • PADUCAH LIFE

prepared to plant their flag and claim their ground.

What does that involve? For starters, Robin can teach remote voice coaching in her new hometown. And yes, you’ve probably already HEARD Robin’s voice on television or in film. Now you can get to know the face behind the fantasy she creates in front of the microphone. She’s also Tom’s project partner on many of his varying creative endeavors.

For Tom, it’s the beginning of a journey to take Paducah’s innate endowments and use them to foster a future in film production. “This is a community that already has such an amazing history and pool of creative people,” he relates. “Our work is basically a way to give people another potential way to make art and make money. We plan to do something that is not only positive for individuals but for the area as a whole.” Tom uses the term trickledown but in the best of contexts.

“Production here will impact tourism, retail operations, and other arts organizations. We can begin to tell the stories that are set here, not just in New York or LA. We’re really encouraged as we convey to industry colleagues how great it is to produce in mid-America. People are definitely listening.”

With Kaitlyn’s Chance now in post-production and other projects queued up on the docket, people will not only be listening, but they’ll also be viewing what Commonwealth Creative Entertainment (and its enthusiastic founders) are about to show the world.

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 17

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Cassidy’s Cause Got theCHANCE of a Lifetime The Unique Programming at This Local Riding Stable and Therapy Center was the Perfect Backdrop for Commonwealth Creative’s First Feature Film Set in Paducah/McCracken County

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 19

F

OR THE PAST DECADE, CASSIDY’S CAUSE HAS PROVIDED THERAPEUTIC horseback riding lessons for children with disabilities, fostering physical, emotional, and social growth in a supportive and empowering environment. Recently, this cherished organization found itself thrust into the spotlight as the chosen venue for the upcoming movie, Kaitlyn’s Chance.

The film is a poignant tale of a young woman’s determined pursuit to save her family's farm. Despite grappling with the aftermath of a horse jumping accident that left her with a disability, she embarks on a courageous journey of rehabilitation and resilience. Riding the very horse that led to her accident, she must confront her fears and prepare to compete in a high-stakes horse jumping competition.

This narrative resonates deeply with Angie Jackson, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Cassidy’s Cause. “We were absolutely on board from the start and honored to be asked to have Cassidy’s Cause used as a location for this film,” said Angie. “But once we got heavily involved and started learning more about the movie’s plot, we knew this was the perfect place to tell this story. We witness stories of courage and resilience with our families every day.”

The exposure gained from being part of the movie has already yielded significant benefits for Cassidy’s Cause, including an influx of volunteers and heightened community awareness. “This experience has been truly transformative for us,” Angie remarked. “It’s brought more attention to our mission which will help us reach more children who may benefit from equine therapy services.”

This remarkable opportunity not only cast a light on Cassidy’s Cause but also made a substantial economic impact on the Paducah/McCracken County community. “The presence of the film crew has been a boon for our town,” Angie continued. “Their support has not only boosted our local economy but has also fostered a sense of unity and pride among our residents.”

Reflecting on the experience, Angie expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity and praised the kindness and generosity of the cast and crew. “The actors in the movie were fabulous. They were so kind and generous. I cannot say enough great things about them. Production had to be shut down for three days because of rain. All three of those days the cast and crew came to the farm anyway and volunteered to help with our classes and special needs students. They took photos and signed autographs for our special friends. This was a tremendous gift for the families who are part of Cassidy’s Cause.”

Kaitlyn’s Chance is currently in post-production and is anticipated to release in 2025. Paducah’s selection as the film’s location will continue to resonate with Cassidy’s Cause as the perfect backdrop for this story of resilience and hope, embodying the spirit of unity and compassion that defines the Paducah/McCracken County community.

20 • PADUCAH LIFE

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STUNNING PENTHOUSE CONDO IN PRESTIGIOUS GATED SUB MARINA VILLAGE. 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, luxurious living on 2 levels, w/floor to ceiling windows on Lakeside offering year round views of Barkley Lake & Dam. Master suite on main level & balcony. Granite countertops, hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling!

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22 • PADUCAH LIFE

★

by A M Y CLEVI DENCE

To Be

Continued Denver Abell Shares Her Journey From High School to Hollywood Extra to Whatever’s Next for This Film-loving Local Talent

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 23

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A AS PRE-TEEN GIRLS EMBARK on the journey from elementary to middle school, they often begin to explore their passions and discover what truly ignites their souls. For Denver Abell, that moment of clarity came while watching the movie adaptation of Gayle Forman’s book If I Stay, where she was deeply inspired by the role of gifted cellist Mia Hall.

“I remember telling my mom, ‘I HAVE to play the cello,’” Denver recalls with a bright smile. “NOT playing the cello was NOT an option.” From that moment on, Denver's path in the entertainment industry was set. She began playing the cello in middle school and continues to pursue her passion to this day, even after graduating as a member of the McCracken County High School Class of 2023. However, Denver's exploration of the arts extended beyond playing music.

“I have always wanted to do more than just play music,” Denver explained. “I love the integration between music and theater, especially the tech side of things: running equipment, cameras, etc. The creation process is what I love most.” Throughout high school, Denver immersed herself in the theater and media programs, finding her niche behind the scenes.

This passion for production led Denver to an unexpected opportunity when Commonwealth Creative Entertainment put out a call for extras for its first feature film, Kaitlyn’s Chance, shot in Paducah earlier this year. Denver’s best

friend, Emily, alerted her to the casting call, recognizing her love for the production side of the arts.

“I replied to the post within five minutes of seeing it,” Denver recalled. “The next morning, the Casting Director responded with instructions on when and where to show up.” For two days, Denver relished every moment on set, soaking in the professional production atmosphere and gaining valuable insight into the world of film.

Since graduating from high school, Denver has continued her education through online college courses in music theory and music history. She remains committed to learning about the industry and discovering her future role within it.

Recognizing the value of networking, Denver used her time on the set of Kaitlyn’s Chance to make connections with others in the industry.

“It is very special that I got to be an extra in a film that was made right here in Paducah. I feel like that gets me extra bragging rights,” Denver laughs. “I not only got to be in a film, but I get to be in a film in MY hometown. In one scene I’m sitting next to a friend I grew up with.

This was not just an experience, but a shared experience in a place I’ve lived my whole life with people I’ve known for a very long time. Our names will be in the film credits.

How cool is that?!”

“What’s next for me? I hear another movie is going to be filmed here,” Denver shared. “I definitely want to get involved and see where that road leads.” Like any great story, this part of Denver’s journey ends with a cliffhanger—to be continued.

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JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 25

voice Finding his Paducah Native Carson Beyer Lives LIFE In Order to Write Songs ★

by J.T. C RAW F O RD Carson Beyer is intimately familiar with the concept of sowing and reaping. Having grown up in a farming family, he knows that it takes experience, toil, and plenty of grit and endurance before the beauty of a harvest flourishes.

26 PADUCAH LIFE

e

A

AS A MUSICIAN, CARSON has approached songwriting in much the same way.

He’s patiently honed his skills and cultivated valuable life experiences. And now, he has a crop of songs that he’s ready to share with the world.

Even though he’s been in the songwriting business for a while, he came to it in an unexpected way. “I had been singing my whole life,” says Carson.

“There are pictures of me, four or five years old, karaoke singing Garth Brooks or Tim McGraw. But I never picked up a guitar or tried to write a song. I was just hearing these songs in my dad’s truck or when I was with my mom, going back and forth to sports practices.”

In fact, football, not music was Carson’s main thing. He’d been a key player at Lone Oak High School before joining the team at Murray State University. “Toward the end of my time there,” says Carson, “I had a coach who was from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and he saw something in me. He took me down there and introduced me to a producer. Later, I met a guy in Nashville named Serg Sanchez, and he really started a fire in me to learn guitar and learn to write songs.”

Carson learned that in addition to making a song that sings well, at the heart of it all was pouring one’s self into each one. “So about six or seven years ago, I started writing and performing,” he adds. “As an athlete, I had learned to perform under pressure. So that wasn’t a hurdle for me. The main thing was to get better at playing and songwriting.”

Initially, Carson was writing and putting his songs out there for other artists to consider picking up, something he still does. “If you work in Nashville, you have to write songs to survive. Then, if you discover your voice along the way,

people start to notice, and you may get to the place where you put your own music out under your own name.”

Carson connected with Twelve6 Entertainment, a Nashville label that focuses on publishing and artist development. “I’m writing, on average, about three songs a week,” says Carson. “Then, with the team, you identify whether a song is a good fit or not with what I am doing as an artist. Some of the songs then get pitched to other artists. And those kinds of things take time.”

More recently, Carson has been finding songs of personal weight that he is releasing himself. “It’s almost therapeutic,” he says in regards to writing songs. “It becomes something you have to do. Eric Church said something about having to write things out. Whether it’s a hit or not, there are things that you have to get out of your system. It’s so true. We all go through life, and we go through these highs and lows.

There are all these things in life that I just have to put into song. And it becomes something others gravitate to. They hear it, and they think hey, I’ve been there. I remember my first heartbreak. Or I remember my first love. Or I’ve felt that exact same

TO HEAR CARSON’S MuSiC AND kEEP uP WiTH WHAT HE’S DOiNG, FOllOW HiM ON iNSTAGRAM OR X uNDER @CarsonBeyer, ON TikTOk uNDER @CarsonBeyermusiC, OR ON FACEBOOk uNDER Carson Beyer.

28 • PADUCAH LIFE

way before. I think that’s what attracted me to music to begin with. I’d listen to songs, and I just felt like those artists were living life right alongside of me. They were telling stories that made you feel like we were all going through this life together.”

This year, Carson has released several songs. “In the Dust,” “Didn’t See Going” (the music video was recorded in Paducah’s Columbia Theater), and “Just Boots.” “‘Just Boots’” is the one that when people who know me hear it, they tell me, ‘That’s you. That’s you in a song.’ It’s the story about how I have different pairs of boots, and I’ve done good and bad things in all of those boots.

It tells the listener that you may see these boots, and that’s all they are to you—boots. But they all tell stories. They carry stories. They carry hurts, embarrassments, triumphs, and victories. That song is one that I am the most proud of.

It’s just so real—good, bad, and ugly. There’s something freeing about being vulnerable.”

Here is where Carson sees his life lessons and experiences come to full fruition. Early on, he homed in on the basics of playing, singing, and crafting songs. These provided the tools he needed to work the fertile soils of existence. And now, with a little more experience and wisdom, he is seeing his own fields of life come to fruition.

“Songwriting is different,” Carson adds. “I heard Johnny Cash once talk about how he couldn’t just decide to go write a song. He had to live his life, and as he lived it, songs came to him. He just got lucky enough to capture it and call it his own. Sure, you can work to get better at it.

But really, what makes it is the vulnerability and authenticity.”

photos by B RA D R ANKIN

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JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 29

An update on the musical journeys of Kelsey Waldon and S.G. Goodman

F

............................................... . . . . . rom the outset of their music careers, we’ve been bringing you the stories of Kelsey Waldon and S.G. Goodman, singer/songwriters from Possum Trot and Hickman, Kentucky, respectively.

. .............................................. . . . . .

Kelsey Waldon

S.G. Goodman

We first met Kelsey in 2011 when she came off the farm, as they say, and left Ballard County to pursue her musical dreams in Nashville. There, she honed her craft, self-releasing four albums between 2011 and 2016. Her songs, deeply rooted in the Americana country she’d come to love, reflected her life, influences, and the culture of Kentucky and the south. And they struck a chord with fans of country music who wanted new music with more of a bite than the top hits of the day.

By the time she released her album I’ve Got a Way in 2016, she’d caught the ear of legendary singer/ songwriter John Prine. Prine had just been inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame and also won the Lifetime Achievement Grammy. He founded his own record label, Oh Boy Records in 1984. But for nearly 15 years, he had not signed any new artists.

At a May 2019 Grand Ole Opry appearance, Prine announced that Kelsey (the girl from Monkey’s Eyebrow) would be recording her next album for Oh Boy. Kelsey then joined him on stage to sing two Prine songs. Kelsey’s debut Oh Boy album was White Noise/White Lines.

S.G. Goodman (many of us knew her as Shaina) became well-known in Paducah with her band The Savage Radley and their album Kudzu in 2017.

Like Kelsey, S.G.’s music was deeply rooted in her upbringing in rural Kentucky. Recognizing the dichotomies of thought when it comes to the JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 31

Homecoming

south, she set out to share her views of the land and people where she grew up in a new way, both quelling misconceptions while also pointing out some hypocrisies.

Her songbook led her to work with Jim James of My Morning Jacket who produced her first album Old Time Feeling. S.G. Goodman led a new generation of proud, southern songwriters who do not necessarily fit the stereotype of what many think that means.

Instead of taking their views and artistry and looking for greener pastures, they celebrate the land, music, and lifestyle they love, crafting a new definition of what it means to be a southerner.

Since our last update on these artists, Kelsey has released three more Oh Boy label albums, The Gold Mine, No Regular Dog, and There’s Always a Song.

On her most recent There’s Always a Song, Kelsey teams up with artists such as Amanda Shires, Margo Price, and 49 Winchester to put their own spin on some of Kelsey’s favorite, old country songs. She released a cover of Bill Monroe’s “Uncle Pen,” a song he wrote about his uncle who had a profound musical impact on him. It’s Kelsey’s nod to her Kentucky roots.

Kelsey also teamed up with S.G. for a duet on the song “Hello Stranger.” The duo had been in regular contact with one another, and Kelsey was happy to find an opportunity for them to work together, covering the 1973 song originally recorded by Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard.

For S.G., she released her self-produced album Teeth Marks in 2022. Like with Old Time Feeling, S.G. continued

"It means a lot to come back home and play,” - K E LS E Y WALDO N

“It kind of feels full circle," - S .G . G O O DM AN

32 • PADUCAH LIFE

her journey of exploring the complexities of life in the rural south. In addition to looking at life on a larger scale, she dove into the personal, putting into song feelings and thoughts that are intimately close and often strike a similar chord within her listeners.

In 2023, S.G. made her Grand Ole Opry debut, performing with Tyler Childers, Margo Price, and Erin Rae. Childers covered S.G.’s song “Space and Time” on his album Rustin’ in the Rain. A heart-rending love song, “Space and Time” was already a favorite among S.G.’s fans. It went on to be a fan-favorite for Childers as well.

Most recently, both Kelsey and S.G. headlined the Lower Town Arts and Music Festival marking a return to home of sorts for both artists on the same weekend.

“It means a lot to come back home and play,” said Kelsey in an interview with WKMS Morning Edition host Daniel Hurt. “Paducah’s always had a growing music scene. That’s where I played. I played at Moss Rose, and Etc., and the Elks Club. That’s where I played my first songs. And it was terrifying. Probably only my mom and my granny were there. I tell all the people about the music scene back home.”

“It kind of feels full circle,” said S.G. in speaking to Daniel. S.G. has performed at the festival in the past with Savage Radley. “Steven, my friend and drummer, he lives in Paducah, and he gets to just walk home and go to bed. But it’s a win-win for all of us.”

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 33

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An A Award-Winning

Sttaamp of Apprro ovva val

by R Ro ose emarie Stee ele

St. Mary High School student Gianna Roth captures a beautiful water foowl in its natural habitat AND brings home Bestt of Show for her artistic depiction of a Pintail duck

I

TW WA AS JUST TA ANOTHER ayy at St. normal school day Maryy High Sch hool in March 2023 fo for Giann na Roth when she was unexpeectedly called to the office ffo orr a phone call. W Waaiting ffo or her on the t other end was Staceyy Haayyden, Education Specialist and Kentuckyy Junior Duck Stamp Contest Coordin nator, and the five judges that had just selected her colored pencil drawing go of a Pintail duck as the Best of Show from more than 1,000 pieces submitted

by K-12 students from aacross the Commonwealth.

“I was really surprised d,” said Gianna. “I wasn’t expectting it because I wanted to do more witth the skyy but I didn’t have the time.” Gianna G had been immersed in her color o ed pencil drawing aw g ffo or weeks in thee classroom.

But as the weeks soon became a month, she began taking g it home to continue ontin e working g on it bef b fo ore the submission deadline.

“I knew w her draaw wing was really good and it didn’t surpriise me that she was chosen to repressent the state,” said St. Maryy High Scho ool art teacher Sue Hein. “Her detail is what is feet, and just fabulous—the wings, the fe the colors. And she did all a of this with

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 35

Stamp of Approvvaal

color l ed d pencils!” il !” Though Th h Gianna Gi wanted d to spend d more time i on n her drawing, h meticulous application of multi-colored strokes set her work her k apart from all the t other contest entries. “The judges liked the detail of the individual ffeeathers a the stems and leaavves of the cattails,” said Staceyy Haayyden. and The contest criteria included a list of native waterffo owl the stu udents could c choose from. “The Pintail caught my attention because of the intteresting waayy the g start to take t duck was flying,” said Gianna. Pintails don’t require a running off —they can go from floating in the water directly to flight. Gianna cleverly off— captur ed that moment and how she visualized the habitat in her mind’s eye. c ““I was was imagining g a morning g in a swampy area,” she recalls. Giann na’s winning d awing dr aw g is fe featured on the cover of the November 2023-March 22024 Kentucky Hunting Guide fo for Waterf Wa fo owl. d tradition. It The Kentuckyy Junior Duck Stamp Contest is a time-honored began in 1993 with the purpose of teaching students about wetlaands, waterffo owl b migr ffo ort by m ation, conservation, and land stewardship. A collaborative eff Clarks River National Wildliffee Refuge, W Wo olf Creek National Fissh Hatchery, C Kentuckyy Ecological Service Office and OLE-Wildliffee Inspectorrs, the contest iss part of a national program, where students in various grade cattegories in all 50 g of a 5 states and US territories are invited to submit a drawingg or paainting n ve North America waterffo nati owl species and/or a short conservation a message.

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Her de detail ta is wh whaatt is fabulo a ou us—the wings, the feeett, and just the colorrs. And she did all off th his with colo orreed d pencils!

Sue H Hein,

St. t Ma ary Higgh Schooll art teacher

The stat state Best of o Show winners go on n to compeete nationallyy in the Federal spon ed by tthe US Fish & Wildliffee Service.

Junior Duck Staamp competition sponsor The n national tion l wiinner i ’s design d i iis used d to t create t a ffeeder d all collector ll t ’s stamp t p which is sold ffo o $5 to raise funds fo or for environmental education.

“This is the onl o y national competition that our students are involved in,” said Hein. Her art students have been participating in this nationwide contest since 1998. “I was interested in the program because my husband and sons are nd belong g to Ducks Unlimited.” She believes it is important to duck hunters an g ducks— convey to her sttudents that wildliffee management is more than killing it’s also about conservation, habitat, and the environment. for their Several St. Maryy High School students have been recognized fo contest submisssions in recent years. In addition to Gianna’s Best of Show h Humm received the 2023 aw award ffo or his conservation message, artwork, Joseph “Preserving g natture is preserving g liffee.” Joseph’s brother Thomas won Best of Show in the 20222 Kentuckyy Junior Duck Stamp Contest ffo or his stunning colorful depictiion of a Canada goose.

Gianna is the daughter of Paul and Merceilo Roth, who instilled an appreciation off the outdoors in her at an early age through family camping and fishing g trips. Her favorite art medium is colored pencils, but she is also gital art. She plans to continue her education after graduation interested in dig in Maayy. “I haven n’t chosen a major yet. I want to explore diff ffeerent classes within i hi myy inter i rests. I do d want to pursue further f h art education d i iin college. ll I believe it will giive me the tools I need to improve, and depending g on how things go, I cou uld possibly pursue a career in art.” owl artworks has been An exhibit of o the 2023 state winning waterffo migrating to ven nues throughout the US and will be returning g to the students in Maayy after theeir final appearance in Oregon. The 2024 Kentuckyy Junior ontest winning g draaw wings/paintings progress to the National Duck Stamp Co Junior Duck Staamp Art and Conservation Message Contest in Falls Church, Virrg ginia, in A Ap prril, where the national winner is once again selected.

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FROM CSIto REAL LIFE A Day In The Life Of A Coroner “What do you want to be when you grow up?” young people often respond to that question with: teacher, doctor, fireman, astronaut. Even though coroner rarely (Ok never) appears on that list, Amanda Melton thinks that maybe she was always meant for this unique and unusual role. Amanda had a calling from a young age to help and comfort families who are grieving. As the McCracken County Coroner, she carries out that vocation daily as she faces each different and difficult work week.

38 • PADUCAH LIFE

A

SUMMA CUM LAUDE GRADUATE OF Southern Illinois University, Amanda holds a degree in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service. Upon graduation, she was named the top mortuary student in the state by the Illinois Funeral Directors Association. She worked at area funeral homes for over 25 years. Amanda was reelected to her second term as McCracken County Coroner in November 2022 and was recently selected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Kentucky Coroner Association.

She recently shared her story with Paducah Life.

You have a very interesting background. Tell me how you began your career in funeral service and what drew you to that.

This all started because my mother was a small-town beautician. She styled hair for many of her clientele when they died. She wanted to honor them but was uncomfortable going to the funeral home, so she often took me with her. Consequently, I became interested in embalming early on. The funeral home owner helped erase the stigma for me and explained the importance of his career and how he showed respect to the people we loved. So, around my early twenties I decided to go to mortuary school at SIU. That career overlaps with the coroner’s office quite a bit.

I have known the last three long-serving coroners: the late John Barker, Jerry Beyer, and most recently Dan Sims. When Dan decided to retire, my interest peaked.

However, I had never run for public office, but I started considering it and it seemed like the right time in my career to go for it. I won the election, and now I really love what I do. It is more complicated than I thought, but it has been a good challenge and something I enjoy.

I understand you work side-by-side with a loveable and loyal Labradoodle. How did you two meet, and how does she serve you and the coroner’s office?

Yes, I have a sweet dog named Courtney Hope McCracken (special dogs need a first, middle and last name). She’s fantastic. She came to me unexpectedly, but she has become not only a vital part of my work, but also a sweet member of my family. I have slowly incorporated her into my work. She is my companion when she’s not working events and lays at home on the couch enjoying her life. The child fatality review team involves local professionals who extensively review deaths of anyone

40 • PADUCAH LIFE

under the age of 18. These deaths are viewed from various aspects—social services, behavioral health, school systems, detectives, etc. They look at the case and analyze it to see if we could have better served the child or family. It is a very difficult meeting because of the age of the decedents.

I take Courtney to this meeting each year because she has a gift to visit with the team but not annoy them. It’s almost like she knows who needs her most. I have taken her to an event with 120 young girls in one room and she thinks they are all there to see her.

On May 16 you were part of the McCracken County Public Library’s Evenings Upstairs program with a presentation titled, From CSI to Real Life, A Day in the Life Of A Coroner. Is there such a thing as a typical day in the life of a coroner?

(Laughs) I suggest reading the definition of “typical.”

When I think about the job of being coroner and being on call (quite often), it almost fits into an atypical category.

My day is often erratic, but I like that. It is one of my favorite things about the job. No two days are the same.

I rarely go on a death investigation that is the same or similar. The circumstances and family dynamics are always different. The people I work with include the Paducah police, sheriff, Mercy Regional EMS, both hospitals, emergency management etc. When you factor in their large staff and crews, it is a different combination on scene every time. I have the constant responsibility of death investigation and administration of the coroners’ office—all correspondence, requests for records, attorneys, families who want documentation, communication with funeral homes, medical examiner—it all falls on my plate.

All day long I feel like I have 15 browsers opened while talking to multiple people. It’s ‘all-in’ and a way of life more than a position or career.

As part of the library presentation, you discussed a bit of history and correct terminology, shared some facts, and cleared up myths. Can you summarize some of that information for our readers?

Sure. I talked about the difference between a coffin and a casket, and a wake versus a visitation. I explained the origins or slogans we have heard over the years such as “kick the bucket” and how that came into existence and what it means. I even shared interesting facts about the symmetry of one’s face and how we can use calculations to

estimate the width of the base of someone's nose, which is really fascinating. To illustrate the difference between a coffin and a casket, think back to Dracula type movies. A coffin is anthropoid shaped where the top is flat and it pitches out where your elbows would be and then narrows toward the feet at the bottom. This is totally different from caskets, which we see in America mostly—they are a rectangular shape that does not vary. Regarding a wake versus a visitation—wakes are extremely popular in the northern part of the country. During a wake, someone sits with the body of the deceased around the clock until burial. The original purpose of a wake was to ensure the person had died. In more modern days this is still viewed as a sign of respect. If the physical body is still in a facility, someone should be there to continue to express their love for the person who has died.

Can you discuss the timeline and protocol for processing evidence uncovered at the scene?

When the family is not present on the scene, the coroner and/or representatives from the coroner’s office become the stand-in replacements for the family until we can find them. We secure the personal belongings of the decedent.

We are the agency who protects all of that until we find the legal next of kin. Sometimes that means we lock down and secure the house and forbid entry until we locate the legal next of kin. Sometimes we take things with us, like cell phones or jewelry. We secure them and log them into evidence until we can find the family and return them.

Pets are sometimes our most cherished treasures. We try extremely hard to find temporary placement for animals until we find the family and figure out what they want to do with their loved one’s pets.

What information can you share about grief, protecting the dignity of those you serve, and the unavoidable emotional toll of this career?

I have been around people who are grieving for my entire adult career. It is an area that I’m very familiar with. It all stems from growing up in a small town where we knew almost everyone, which meant we went to the funeral home frequently. My mother believed we should always support our friends and their families who were dealing with death. I have always been comfortable in that space. I have adult friends who say they have never been to a funeral.

PICTURED TOP TO BOTTOM: Among Amanda’s office “collections” are a vintage shoeshine brush advertising undertaker. / The basketball on the left is signed by Lin Dunn, the current General Manager of the Indiana Fever and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Lin is from Amanda’s hometown of Dresden, TN. The other basketball is signed by Michael Jordan when he played for the Washington Wizards. (Murray State star Popeye Jones, also from Dresden, played for the Wizards as well.) / An autographed photo of Lily Tomlin. Amanda assisted her on the occasion of her mother’s death in Paducah.

Beneath is a collection of sporting event tickets. / A hand written notebook with embalming diagrams given to Amanda by the family of a Chicago undertaker.

Amanda Melton Thinking about the death of someone makes them very anxious and they often don’t go, even though they know they should. I have never felt that way and because of that I feel like it is my purpose to help people navigate these situations. My goal in every situation is to offer assistance or hold someone’s hand at the right time—to do something that makes it easier for them during one of their toughest times.

Tell us something that is positive about this job.

One of the things I love about my job is the coroner’s office being the piece of the team who helps identify trends. For example, I recently did an interview with WPSD and I discussed the herbal substance Kratom, increasingly becoming more available at quick marts and gas stations. We also assist the medical examiner in studying gamers who used to be active individuals but became sedentary and developed health issues after they started gaming. We monitor Fentanyl usage and deaths in the community and are identifying reformulated medicine being manufactured and sold on the street that looks like prescription grade Xanax but is laced with Fentanyl. Sometimes we notice trends and share that information with the regional medical examiner who represents 24 Western Kentucky counties who then communicates with state medical examiners, who then communicate with federal agencies—it starts with grass roots observations here in McCracken County. We are extremely focused on that within my office. We identified multiple accidents, not always fatal, on Clarks River Road which got the attention of Commissioner Bartleman who started the movement to reduce the speed limit, which led to a decrease in accidents on that road. We want to be proactive in preventing unnecessary deaths.

What makes our area unique as far as deaths that occur?

Something that makes McCracken County unique and makes our caseload more than neighboring counties is our population, and the fact that so many people come into our county every day for work, recreation, or shopping. That number of people swells every day by 40,000 in addition to the normal population in the county. We also have two regional hospitals. When you see ambulances, they most often are coming into our county for our advanced medical care. Because of all these factors, we investigate many deaths that originated in neighboring counties but were transported here. That makes us unique. We also have an airport, waterways, and an interstate, which make us a remarkably busy county.

Last fall you were a keynote speaker to young girls at the STEM for Girls conference at West Kentucky Community and Technical College. What do you say to young girls to help them get excited about the sciences and jobs in STEM fields?

I love the opportunity to speak to young girls about what I do and to encourage them to pursue careers that interest them, whether they are traditionally maledominated or not. I would never want them to feel like they must hold back or

42 • PADUCAH LIFE

for gender to be a barrier in pursuing their dream. I don’t consider myself a trailblazer—I just thought about it as ‘this is what I want to do.’ My vocational attributes all fit neatly into this career. I encourage young girls to think about what they want to do every day for the rest of their lives that brings them happiness and fits with their personality and traits. Teenagers do not always know who they are—but they know their strong suits. They need to consider several things— do I prefer being tucked away in my office focusing on my job or on the front lines talking to people? In which classes do I excel and how do those fit into a career? I am fortunate that I knew many years ago that this career intrigued me. I think that is why I was invited to speak at the WKCTC conference—who would think a coroner would be a popular topic! It’s an atypical career, and there are not a lot of females who offer that perspective. I want to encourage young women to pursue what makes them happy.

in s pire d by t h e s e a s on JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 43

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by Ste ephanie Watso t n

Engin neering g Clos Cl e tto Home!!

UK Engineering Paduucah Campus launches Bachelor of Science in Compputer Engineering Technology

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OR MORE THAN 25 YEAR RS, THE UNIVERSITY Y OF KENTUCKY Y SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING he needs of our region’s students and industryy by producingg high hly trained Paducah Campus has filled th mechanical and chemical engineers. From supporting g the workffo orce at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant to training engineers wh ho go on to work in the chemical manufacturingg plants in this reegion, the school has been pivotal in providingg skilled employees ffo ur area while or the industrial establishments in ou also providing big g town educaation opportunities to its students.

As the manufacturing industry has moved in nto a digital, automated, and networked space, the need fo for engineers who can imagine and maintain these digital systems is no ow at the fo forefront of the industry’s concerns. In an increasingly digital world, computer engineers are, regardless of the field of o application, more in demand than ever.

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 45

Engineering Close to Home

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To fill that need, starting this summer, students will have the opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) through WKCTC and transfer to the UK Engineering Paducah Campus to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Engineering Technology (CET). Dr. Charles Lu, director of the Paducah campus and passionate engineering educator, has worked for several years to bring the program to Dr. Charles Lu Paducah.

“There were many obstacles during that process. There were times that we were told to wait for a few years, but we never gave up,” he states. “It was a long and complicated process to develop a proposal since we had to assemble documents outlining everything from curriculum, budget, facility, personnel, legal, and various support letters. One of the most important documents, however, was the financial pledges of the generous donors from our Paducah community!

Without these financial pledges, the proposal may not have been approved!”

Among notable advocates and donors is Basil Drossos. Drossos is a retired director of Computer Services, Inc., retired General Motors Executive chairman, and the chairman of the advisory committee for the UK Pigman College of Engineering Paducah Campus.

“The Computer Engineering Technology degree program adds a third pathway for students to the degrees in mechanical and chemical engineering offered since the opening of the Paducah campus 25 years ago,” Drossos commented.

“These fully accredited engineering degrees are in high demand in the workplace everywhere. Starting salaries are among the highest of any profession. The collaboration with WKCTC provides a unique value proposition unequaled

anywhere often resulting in low to no student debt upon graduation.

Many thanks are owed to the members of the Paducah community who provided the financial resources in support of the program. Dean Rudy Buchheit and Dr. Charles Lu of UK and Dr. Renea Akin and Dr. Anton Reece of WKCTC have made it a reality.”

Along with the impact on program offerings for students, Dr. Lu adds that it will have a huge impact on the local industry. “If you visit the chemical engineering plants in Calvert City {there are many of them within just a couple of miles of radius}, you will see that manufacturing processes are automated, machines are operated by robots, and equipment is controlled through the network, so essentially ‘computers’ are the ‘brains’ of everything!” he states.

The same can be said for the automotive industry, a major industry sector in this region and throughout the state. The automobiles people drove decades ago were mostly mechanical while the automobiles people drive today are all digital, autonomous, and full of advanced technologies. That is why Toyota has been the primary sponsor of this new program. The program’s lab, which provides hands-on learning throughout the degree process, will have a car donated by Toyota, where students will learn about automotive computing. “Ford Motor Company is building two giant electrical vehicle plants in central Kentucky and western Tennessee and needs a huge workforce for their modern manufacturing facilities,” Dr. Lu explains. “They just visited us last JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 47

Engineering Close to Home

week since we are strategically located in the middle of these two giant plants, and they were very impressed by our campus and by what we offer.”

Hospitals, another large employer in our region, are facing a similar situation: most medical devices or equipment are digital and operated by software. So, all those industries also increasingly have need for engineers or technologists with a CET background.

Likewise, many small start-up companies in our community are excited by this new CET program at the UK Paducah Campus and will benefit greatly from the expertise of the professors and students.

Knowing how to work with both software and hardware is the key to developing new, technology-enhanced products. The program will further help attract new technology companies to our area, which leads to new jobs, and the program will in turn help supply employees for them.

Even more important than local industry needs, however, is the career interests of today’s students.

“Multiple surveys have shown that interest or aspiration in ‘computer’ or ‘computer-driven technology’ is high among today’s middle and high school students since they live in a digital world and everything they see, sense, or touch is about computers or digital technology,” Dr. Lu states. “The jobs that await today or tomorrow’s students will likely be even more computer-driven than they are now. Adding this technology-oriented program is meant to serve the businesses and industries, but more importantly, it is meant to serve our students—our future!”

Graduates with a BS Degree in Computer Engineering Technology can work in a wide range of industries, such as aerospace, automotive, consulting firms, government agencies, hospitals, manufacturing, industrial equipment design, IT firms, energy and environmental solutions, and many others. They can be employed as embedded software technologists, computer support specialists, and other software or hardware-related jobs. Basically, all industries

The program will further help attract new technology companies to our area, which leads to new jobs, and the program will in turn help supply employees for them.

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todayy require a new w set of computing skills, and this degree e program will uniquely prepare students to hose advancing become leaders in th industries.

And because it is a technologyoriented degree proggram that will bs, it off ffeers lead to high-tech job great pay and great job-gr ob growth opportunity. The meedian annual salaryy of the CET graduates is $85,000, and the job b growth rate is 10% expected fo for 2019-2028.

Undoubtedly, this program will change the lives of man m y students and their families.

“I have been with h UK K Paducah ffo or 18 years and have lived in Murray for 24, so we consideer western fo Kentuckyy our home,” Dr. Lu reflects.

“Both my wiffee and I are educators.

What we care about the most is the education of thee students since education changes liives. I am proud g ffo or that I was able to do something the community, ffo or the t students, and ffo or the region th hat I haavve come to lovee.”

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 49

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50 • PADUCAH LIFE

t Club

Rocke H 4 y t n u o C n e McCrack

f f O s t s Bla ls!

Nationa o t ip r T a h it w

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The McCracken County 4-H Rocket Club recently ranked among the top 100 in the nation, earning them a spot at the American Rocketry Challenge in Washington, D.C.

by Stephanie Watson

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SMALL BUT PASSIONATE GROUP of local teens recently took their passion for science and engineering to new heights. The newly formed McCracken County 4-H Rocket Club, which first met in December 2023, quickly positioned itself as a national contender when it ranked within the top 100 of 922 teams representing 45 states this past May. Each year, the competition takes place in The Plains, VA, 50 miles west of Washington, D.C., and is sponsored by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) and the National Association of Rocketry (NAR). To qualify for nationals, teams must design and build model rockets, fly them to 820 feet and land them within 43-46 seconds, all while safely transporting a hen’s egg.

Months of learning and practice led to their invitation to participate in the competition. Under the guidance of Alex Senig, a PhD student at UK Engineering Paducah campus, and with the support of his advisor, Dr. John Maddox, students dove into the intricacies of rocket design, aerodynamics, and flight mechanics.

Early club meetings involved detailed instruction on how model rockets, or rockets in general, are capable of flight.

Next, the team learned about the components of model rockets along with their function. Once they were familiar

Paducah rocketeers from left are Graham Rhea, Jackson Myskowski, Vivian Page, Abbie Squires, Alex Senig, Zeke Morrow, and JD Harrison.

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 51

4-H Rocket Club with these topics, they constructed pre-built models and launched them so they could see these different components in person and how they all fit together.

“Prior to designing their rockets, we had the kids practice protecting their eggs by doing egg drop experiments,” Alex explains. “These experiments worked by putting an egg in a protective casing the students would make and dropping it from a certain height. Different heights would simulate different landing velocities. Once the students completed their egg drop without breaking their eggs, they moved on to their model rocket design.”

Team members then began their actual designs by using Open Rocket, a model design software. This software allowed them to run simulations to see how high the designed rockets could go along with how long its flight would be. Other information such as how fast the rocket hits the ground and the acceleration experienced by the rocket was calculated. Once the team was happy with their simulation results, they constructed their rockets. While they varied in appearance regarding height and fin shape, each ended up being approximately 32 inches and weighing just under a pound.

Unfortunately, on the day of the national competition, things didn’t go quite as planned. On their first launch the team had a misfire (which is normal and common according to Alex). They ended up building a new motor on the field for one last try. Unfortunately, due to a motor casing from a bad batch (the motor casing holds the motor they built), they experienced a high-pressure event. The casing didn’t have as many threads on one end as it should have. That coupled with improper venting caused a small fire on the launch pad.

“It was definitely a sight to see, but our kids came back laughing and telling us how cool it was,” Alex notes. “It was an amazing experience for everyone involved, and the kids are already talking about next year’s competition!”

It was Alex’s own early experiences in rocket design that captured his fascination with flying among the stars, and starting the McCracken County team was a vision rooted in personal experience.

“I competed in the American Rocketry Challenge (then the Team America Rocketry Challenge) and was fortunate enough to qualify for nationals several years in a row. In 2013, our team actually placed 7th in the nation,” Alex recalls. “Our rocket club was also run through our county’s 4-H program, which gave me the idea to start McCracken County’s through their 4-H. Rocket Club was my favorite activity in middle/high school, and it really cemented me on my path to going to college for aerospace engineering.”

Alex Senig is currently working on requirements for his Ph.D. in aerospace engineering. His focus is on modeling and experimentally determining how heat shield materials for reentry vehicles conduct heat

work at NASA Langley after completing his Ph.D.

52 • PADUCAH LIFE

Alex is currently working on various requirements for his Ph.D. in aerospace engineering, and his personal research focuses on modeling and experimentally determining how heat shield materials for reentry vehicles conduct heat in different environments. After graduation, he plans on working in the industry, hopefully at NASA Langley in Hampton, VA. He would eventually like to teach at the college level and pass on his passion for aerospace engineering.

“It’s fun to be able to pass on one’s own passion to someone else.

Our goal was to give students hands on experience and an introduction to aerospace engineering. The students were very receptive to quickly learn and apply aerospace principles,” Alex notes. “They enjoyed designing and building their model rockets but getting to see them take off and soar over 800 feet before successfully landing really cemented their appreciation for aerospace engineering and started what we hope will be a long tradition of young people in the region exploring engineering.”

Supporting Paducah Cooperative Ministry

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Dessigning g in the

THIRDD THIRD DIMENSIO DIM DIME D ENSION ON Students at the Paducah Innovation Hub are designing more than just video eo games.

They’re creating e paths to a brighhter future. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .......................... ........................ .

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S THIS SECONDARY RY Y SCHOO O L TEACHER R CAN A AT TTEST T, IF YOU SPEAK TO YOUNG PEOPLE for long ffo g enough these daayys, you u will inevitably learn something g about their favorite video games. From Minecraft to Fortnite and Madd M den, video games are a pervasive source of entertainment in the lives of these digital natives. It is no surprise,, then, that the video game design d gn industryy is, in fact, larrgger than it’s ever been, offering ffe g more people than evver the chance to turn a pastime into a proffeession.

The Paducah Innovation and V Vo ocational Hub his call to prepare students ffo or the technologyu ’s veryy existence comes from this driven careers of the 21st century. Among the hi h ve of hands-on, high-level learning ning that takes place there, several students are learning g first-hand how to turn their passion fo for video games into the potentiall for fo f big profits.

Design class starts early ffo or these students. By 7:20 AM, they’ve made their waayy to their own collaborative workspace in the HUB and starteed their gaming g computers—laptops tops that are quite more advaanced than the standard studentt computer—to get to work. After video-based g is hands-on trial and errorr, with the outcome being g the veryy tangible lessons, the learrning

by Ste ephanie experience of a game that can be played. W Waalkiing g around the classroom much like a coach

Watso t n

Photos by Wayne Ph W Wa ayyne W Wa ald alden lden

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Kaden McNeely and Drake Pierson (background) explore Virtual Reality.

observes and advises players from the sidelines, is Andre Meadows, the course’s teacher.

“I am not the typical ‘sage on the stage’ telling students what they need to know,” Meadows notes. “I get to function more as the ‘guide on side,’ allowing this class to be self-paced and leaving me more as a facilitator than a teacher of video game design.”

Despite the humble description Meadows shares of his role, the students are, in fact, very lucky to have a teacher who has practical experience in the computer industry AND has demonstrated high levels of teaching and management. In fact, he’s also the Innovation Hub’s assistant principal.

“Currently, I hold a position as an instructor and assistant principal at the Paducah Area Technology Center,” Meadows explains. “Here at the HUB, I handle a variety of educational, administrative, and safety-related responsibilities. This marks my 28th year in the field of education, having begun my career as a computer systems operator in another state. Over the years, I’ve also taught history and served as a head principal.”

Meadows’ interest in this particular class, however, is not just strictly professional. From a young age, he was fascinated by video gaming machines, starting with classics like Atari and Nintendo,

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 55

PADUCAH INNOVATION HUB

and making his way over the years to modern consoles like PlayStation.

In 2018, he returned to school to pursue computer programming and obtained credentials to teach Computer Science. Teaching this class is one happy outcome of that additional training.

“The course is doing much more than allowing students a chance to explore their area of interest,” Meadows notes. The state of Kentucky has created ‘pathways’ for different subjects, and each graduating student is required to fulfill the requirements for one of several career pathways or meet state benchmarks on the ACT to graduate. The pathway that Marques Wall works on a MicroBit™ computer chip. includes the video game design course is called Digital Design and Game Development for Computer Science and can prepare students to work or further their study in a variety of fields. Like other pathways, students in this pathway must complete four classes and pass an end of program test to be considered career ready.

Being career ready in this area also provides one answer to an important economic question: How will students make money in the future? “In 2022, the revenue from the worldwide gaming market was estimated at almost 347 billion U.S. dollars,” Meadows explains. “This is a very lucrative career path. On top of having fun creating elements of games, a person in this career path could make a good living. These students are using the same game engines that were used to create some of the most popular games such as Fortnite and Grand Theft Auto.”

Like most good learning experiences, the impact of the video game design course extends far beyond the walls of the classroom. Armed Andre Meadows observes code written by Antonio Hunt, Jr. with the skills and confidence to succeed in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, these students are learning to navigate the complexities of digital design while honing the timeless skills of problem-solving and teamwork.

“Many of the students have taken the Introduction to Gaming class for fun. By the time they are in the advanced course, they are working with 2D and 3D graphics, animation, character development, all while using state of the art software and hardware,” Meadows explains. “Those who are serious about the program are often going on to major in computer science related programs in college. This course offers a unique facet of the large variety of STEM and career focused opportunities here at the hub.”

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A Word with Noah Kent Koster 2024 PTHS Graduate and Video Game Enthusiast

Why did you decide to take the video game design course?

I hold a deep interest in programming and game design and have loved video games ever since I was a kid. I also enjoy 3D modeling, virtual reality technology, and music composition, all of which I have been able to learn more about during this course.

What has the video game design course taught you?

Throughout the past few years of taking this course I’ve learned how to program, model in 3D, and use industry standard game engines, such as Senior Noah Koster checks out a 3-D print.

56 • PADUCAH LIFE

Unity and Unreal. I have also learned what processes one must go through to make a stable game in an efficient manner, like making development outlines and creating rough prototypes before committing to a final draft. I was surprised, however, when I was able to apply what I learned in this class to many aspects of my personal and professional life.

Skills like file organization, group work, time management, and more have been incredibly helpful in my day-to-day life and will make me a more proficient college student and employee in the future.

What has been your favorite experience in the video game design course?

One of my favorite things to happen was when we were given a 2D maze project. I had a previous year under my belt and was much farther ahead than my classmates. I told Mr. Meadows about this, and he gave me much more flexibility with the project. So, I turned my 2D maze game into a 3D game using ray-casting and custom textures I drew myself! It was lots of fun to create, and I learned so much about rendering and texture design.

Personally, I believe that experience speaks a lot to the freedom given to the students in this course. That freedom is what makes it so special!

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

I am first attending a second interview for an internship at a major software company, which is very exciting. I have also been accepted at Murray State and will be majoring in computer science and game development, all thanks to this class!

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 57

by Amy Clevidence Ashton Tyree

Dream e ms WORLDD CHHAMPIONSHHIPS

Sensei Joe Rhodes and Team Blitz

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sensei joe Rhodes

rom the time he was a little boy growing up in Tennessee, martial arts was more than just an extracurricular activity for Sensei Joe Rhodes—it was a way of life, ingrained in the fabric of his family. What started as a childhood passion quickly blossomed into a lifelong dream that Sensei Joe is now living at XLR8 Martial Arts, formerly Premier Martial Arts, which he coowns with business partner, Heather Langston.

At the young age of 21, Sensei Joe’s journey in martial arts has already been marked by remarkable achievements, but perhaps his most profound accomplishment lies in his humble leadership and unwavering dedication to his students.

At XLR8, Sensei Joe imparts not only the physical techniques of martial arts but also its deeper values of discipline, respect, and perseverance. Under his guidance, Team Blitz emerged as a competitive travel team, showcasing the dedication and skill of its members on both regional and national stages.

Recently, Team Blitz made history by clinching victory at the World Kickboxing and Karate Union (WKU) World Martial Arts championship, a testament to their hard work and Sensei Joe’s mentorship. This remarkable achievement paved the way for all ten members of Team Blitz to be named as representatives of the junior league for Team USA in the upcoming world championships in

Sensei Joe Rhodes & Team Blitz

Greece, scheduled for October 2024. It’s a momentous honor for the team and a testament to their talent and dedication.

Among the inspiring stories within Team Blitz is that of Ashton Tyree, whose journey with karate began as a form of punishment but has since transformed into his greatest outlet.

Through the discipline and structure of martial arts, Ashton found not only a passion but also a means of self-expression and personal growth.

“When I met Ashton, he was very angry,” says Sensei Joe, reflecting on Ashton’s journey. “He was struggling to express himself. That’s common for a lot of us. Martial arts provides a way we can help express ourselves and channel our negative emotions. His transformation from struggling child to a member of Team USA is incredible!”

Tabitha Gillespie, one of the proud parents of Team Blitz, reflects on the journey of her son, Brayden Knight, and his teammates with immense pride and gratitude. “Brayden has made many sacrifices to be part of this team,” Tabitha explains. “All the boys have. They spend countless hours training. When other kids are playing video games, hanging out with their friends, or taking part in extracurricular activities, these boys are training.”

The rewards are a gift not just to the team members but to their parents as well. “To see your child excel in something they completely enjoy, something that pushes them to be greater, means everything to our family,” Tabitha shared.

Throughout this journey, Sensei Joe’s leadership has been a guiding light for Team Blitz, instilling in them the values of perseverance, teamwork, and humility. “I don’t take credit for their hard work,” he says humbly. “I simply provide the torch and help guide their journey.”

In the spirit of unity and determination, Sensei Joe Rhodes and Team Blitz embody the true essence of martial arts— strength, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As they embark on their journey to Greece, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their community, serving as an inspiration to aspiring martial artists everywhere.

andrew Couch and chance brady

Jax Cavanaugh and joe rhodes

Jonas Morris and Brayden Knight

From left are Ashton Tyree, Tucker Solomon, Jonas Morris, Andrew Couch, Joe Rhodes, Jax Cavanaugh, Brayden Knight, Chance Brady and William Babbs.

60 • PADUCAH LIFE

As Team Blitz prepares to represent Team USA on the global stage,

challenge of funding their travel expenses.

The community’s support

in helping these talented young athletes overcome this hurdle

competing on the world stage.

To learn how you can contribute or to follow the team’s journey, engage with Team Blitz on Instagram: @Team_Blitz_Karate.

Tabitha Gillespie and son, Brayden Knight

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★

by A M Y CLEVI DENCE

The Thrilling Victory of

ThorpedoAnna LOCAL ATTORNEY MARK EDWARDS MOVED SEAMLESSLY FROM THE COURTROOM TO THE WINNER’S CIRCLE AT THIS YEAR’S KENTUCKY OAKS JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 63

Celebrating the victory of Thorpedo Anna at the 2024 Oaks are from left Nick Edwards, Beck Pennington, Jessie Edwards, Erika Pennington, Amy Edwards, Andrew Edwards, Brian Edwards, Tucker Edwards, Mark Edwards, Carla McManus, namesake Anna Thorp, Michelle Thorp, Will Thorp, and Michael Thorp.

M

ARK EDWARDS, A LOCAL ATTORNEY AND PARTNER AT EDWARDS AND KAUTZ, has recently captured attention not only in the courtroom but also on the racetrack. His fervent passion for horse racing has propelled him to extraordinary heights, culminating in a thrilling victory at the prestigious 2024 Longines Kentucky Oaks, America’s premier and most prestigious race for three-year-old fillies held annually on the day before the Kentucky Derby.

While Mark’s legal career has been marked by his steadfast dedication to his clients, his love for horse racing has always been a cherished aspect of his life. “I’ve always been fascinated by horse racing,” Mark shares with enthusiasm. “It’s a thrilling sport!”

Mark’s journey in horse racing took a significant turn when he decided to invest in Thorpedo Anna, a promising filly brimming with potential. Teaming up with renowned Thoroughbred trainer Kenny McPeek, Mark embarked on a venture that would soon lead to triumph at this year’s Oaks race.

What set Thorpedo Anna apart from the outset was the heartwarming story behind her name. “I approached Kenny and asked, ‘Do you have any horses available?’ He enthusiastically recommended a filly named Fast Anna. Given that my granddaughter's name is Anna, I proposed that I would be interested if I could name her. Inviting my granddaughter to join me in this decision, we brainstormed together. Since my Anna is a swimmer and affectionately referred to as ‘Thorpedo’ by her coaches, inspired by Olympic Swimmer Ian Thorpe, the perfect name emerged: Thorpedo Anna.”

The victory of Thorpedo Anna at the Oaks race was a moment of pure exhilaration for Mark, who was surrounded by

64 • PADUCAH LIFE

his children and grandchildren, including Anna, as their horse galloped across the finish line.

“Witnessing her triumphant victory was an experience that will stay with me forever,” says Mark, his voice filled with pride.

Reflecting on his achievement, Mark offers words of encouragement to aspiring horse owners and racing enthusiasts. “You cannot enter this business with the expectation of making money.

It’s a business,” he advises. “Often, the financial risks outweigh the potential rewards. But if you have a genuine passion for the industry, the highs are unparalleled!”

Paducah Life rejoices in Thorpedo Anna’s victory and eagerly anticipates her continued success in the world of horse racing.

Thorpedo Anna was acquired at the Fasig Tipton yearling sale in 2022 and she broke her maiden first time out at Keeneland in 2023 by 8 ½ lengths. Two weeks later she won in her first level allowance by 9 ½ lengths at Churchill Downs. Thorpedo Anna won the famed Oaks race by 4 ¾ lengths at a time of 1:50:83 with Brian Hernandez as the jockey.

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BENEATH THREE OAKS

T

Through the long earthy night I waited—through an interminable thirteen year night—remembering, longing for that honeysuckle-laden light until finally the time is come.

★

by J U DY MILFORD

Burrowing upward is a long hard journey.

Breaking out, that casting off of old casing, is a struggle. At last I am free.

I fly badly but manage movement toward tree, grass blade, anything upward.

My color intensifies.

These red eyes take in a world of others, so many others, just like me.

I am not alone.

Together we chorus, like the gun-metal gray hum of a monster machine.

We vibrate seduction—another longing, an umber song of promise.

We beckon, seek fulfillment, never suspecting that the end will come so soon.

Here we are littering by the thousands the ground beneath the three oaks sometimes yards, sometimes only inches, from our recently discarded amber shells.

Cicadas

Periodical Cicadas-Brood XXIII—2015

It is done.

We will never see the children for which we lived.

JUDY MILFORD loves to travel and read but best of all spend time with family which includes eleven grandchildren ranging in age from three to thirty-three. She watches bugs, collects rocks, rescues books, and has never seen a tree she didn't want to save.

JULY/AUGUST 2024 • 67

the

For more than a decade, the Guess Anti-Bullying Foundation, begun by Morgan, Susan and Craig Guess, has been spreading kindness in a host of colorful ways.

Murals, designed by artist Kijsa Housman and painted by scores of volunteers, are an indelible expression on community buildings that this fundamental gift of caring can change the world we live in. Paducah’s Community Kitchen is the most recent canvas for the depiction of kindness.

“So many individuals and businesses have helped us advance our anti-bullying and kindness initiatives through the years,” said Susan Guess. “Hundreds of people have donated money, knitted hats, collected scarves and gloves, bought license plates, attended kindness walks, written kindness notes, and so much more. We will be forever grateful for their collective work in promoting kindness.”

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Fantastic Years at Broadway Dental!

Come celebrate with us this year as we mark 40 fantastic years of state-of-the-art dentistry in our hometown! Thanks so much for your loyalty and friendship through the years.

Dr. Ethan Shelton, DMD Dr. Kinny E. Slaughter, DMD Dr. James K. Hunt, DMD Dr. Allison Reed, DMD

Broadway Dental Care 130 Lone Oak Road / 270.443.9099 / broadwaydentalcarepaducah.com

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PADUCAH, KY PERMIT 44

CELEBRATING A LEGACYof LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY. Joe Framptom

FOR FIVE DECADES, Joe Framptom has been more than a leader at Paducah Bank; he has been a pillar of our community. His unwavering commitment has been instrumental in our growth and success, both within the bank and across the community we serve.

Joe chose Paducah Bank, and he chooses to make a difference every day.

paducahbank.com / M E M B E R F D I C