Owensboro Living - February / March 2019

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

EDITOR

Steven Wilson steven@owensboroliving.com PUBLISHER

Taylor West

THERE’S A LOT TO LOVE ABOUT OWENSBORO With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, love is on the mind. And you’ll find a common theme of love throughout this issue.

You’ll read about how a love of coaching and football brought UK standout Craig Yeast back to the Bluegrass State as the new head coach of Kentucky Wesleyan College’s football program. As a Wesleyan grad, UK fan, and Owensboro transplant myself, I’m excited and I’m sure the rest of Owensboro has welcomed him with open arms. There’s no doubt someone has already taught him the correct way to pronounce Frederica Street and Daviess County (I think I was corrected within my first 24 hours here).

Owensboro’s great about welcoming new people, but we’re also sad and proud when someone leaves. Ryan Jackson’s passion for fashion took him to Miami and now New York City, where he runs his clothing line, LFANT. Although he now calls NYC home he’s quick to say (in his Kentucky accent of course) his Owensboro roots keep him grounded.

Have you ever wondered how an interior designer designs their own office? You’ll get a behind the scenes view of Laura Ruth Edge’s office on page 18, and discover her love of intertwining family, history, and design.

taylor@tannerpublishing.com AD SALES

Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com

Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com LAYOUT & DESIGN

Jamie Alexander Andrea Roberson CONTRIBUTORS

Jamie Alexander Jay Fallin Julia Hartz Casey Hamilton Dr. Sofya Kuznetsov Danny May Dana Peveler Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt FOUNDER

Jason Tanner jason@tannerpublishing.com Online

And speaking of love, for those of you who celebrated engagements over the holidays, inside you’ll find our annual Owensboro Living Wedding Guide, where local wedding professionals offer their expertise in making your big day go as smooth as possible.

Owensboro’s given me a lot over the past decade. I met my wife Katelyn (a lifelong Owensboro resident) here. I get to have a creative, fulfilling career here at Tanner Publishing. Oh, and I was introduced to burgoo.

For all those and many more, I’m eternally grateful. Thank you Owensboro - I’ve got nothing but love for you.

www.owensboroliving.com facebook.com/owensboroliving instagram.com/owensboroliving twitter.com/oboroliving issuu.com/tannerpublishing Offline Owensboro Living Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 888-304-5416 Advertise Owensboro Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise.

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

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FEB MARCH THE BUZZ

[10]

[18]

THE REAL PEOPLE, PLACES AND EVENTS THAT SHAPE OUR COMMUNITY, BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE OWENSBORO TIMES

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THE PULSE

[18]

FROM THE DESK OF...

LAURA RUTH EDGE

FEATURES [20] LFANTNYC.COM [26] DISNEY DREAMS DO COME TRUE [30] A STORIED CAREER IN LAW

[43]

[34] COMING HOME TO KENTUCKY FOOTBALL

[43]

THE WEDDING GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

[60]

SENIOR LIVING

THE SECRET TO A LONG AND HAPPY LIFE

[62]

[26]

THE GETAWAY

36 HOURS IN HENDERSON

[66]

THE STYLE

[34]

[70]

DRESSES TO CRUSH ON

[70]

THE DISH

SWEET TREATS FOR YOUR SWEETHEART

[74]

THE SCENE

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND OWENSBORO

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BIG PICTURE Families skating at the Edge Ice Center - the coolest place in town.

Photo by Jamie Alexander

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BUZZ

PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY

THE

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN EARNS TOP RANKING

The Kentucky Wesleyan College online bachelor’s degree program has earned the top ranking for a private institution in Kentucky by U.S. News & World Report for 2019. “This recognition again exemplifies Kentucky Wesleyan’s longstanding commitment to excellence in all of our delivery methods,” said President Barton D. Darrell. “We are proud to offer the convenience of an online education with the personal attention that is given to all of our students at Kentucky Wesleyan College.”

KHSAA OVERHAULS FOOTBALL PLAYOFF FORMAT

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During their January meeting, the KHSAA Board of Control approved an overhaul to the postseason format that will span all six classes.

Following what is essentially now going to be a district championship in round two, a pair of teams from each of the four regions will remain. For the third round, teams from Regions 1-2 will be seeded based on their RPI — No. 1 vs. No. 4 and No. 2 vs. No. 3 — as will those from Region 3-4. Following those matchups, the remaining four teams will then be reseeded from No. 1-4 to create semifinal pairings, with the winners playing for the state championship. Top seeds will play host in all rounds.

WENDELL FOSTER CREATES NEW KIWANIS AKTION CLUB

Aktion Club is one of the Kiwanis family’s Service Leadership Programs, and the only service club for adults with disabilities, with more than 12,000 members worldwide. Their mission is to provide adults with disabilities an opportunity to develop leadership skills and serve their communities.

John Gleason, the local Kiwanis Club advisor says, “Members of Aktion Club are people who want to serve and improve their communities. They are energetic and dedicated to making a difference in the world.” Aktion Club meets monthly at Wendell Foster. The next meeting will be held on Friday, Feb. 22 at 2:30 p.m. in the Elmer Administration Building board room. www.OwensboroLiving.com

OHS’S GOUGH NAMED ALLSTATE

GET WITH THE TIMES!

OHS Football Sophomore

Get more news like this on The Owensboro Times app.

Download the app today on the App Store or Google Play.

Austin Gough was named to the 2018 Associated Press Kentucky High

HAYDEN NAMED DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS FOR ESTENSON RACING

School All-State First Estenson Racing has announced Owensboro racing legend Tommy Hayden as the new Director of Racing Operations.

In his new position, Hayden will draw upon his personal racing experience to oversee the team’s race operations and his marketing experience to oversee sponsor relations and sponsorship development. For 2019, Estenson Racing has more than doubled in size with five riders and plans to compete in all three classes of American Flat Track with JD Beach, Jake Johnson and Kolby Carlile in AFT Twins, and Ryan Wells and Dallas Daniels in AFT Singles.

JA INDUCTS BRYANT, WOODWARD INTO HALL OF FAME

Team Defense following a year as one of the state’s leading tacklers.

Gough, who primarily played linebacker, led the Red Devils with 131 tackles, and he ranked third in the state with 10.9 per game. He also had one interception, which he returned 45 yards for a touchdown, two fumbles forced and recovered, and a pair of sacks. During his sophomore campaign,

On Thursday, January 17, Junior Achievement of Western Kentucky inducted Malcolm Bryant and Terry Woodward into its Business Hall of Fame. The event is an annual fundraiser marketed to the business community to honor Laureates who have demonstrated a lifetime of outstanding business achievements, civic involvement and serve as a role model for the youth of our community. Net proceeds will benefit JA of West Kentucky, and every table purchased allows JA to serve 38 additional students and future leaders with financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship programs.

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Gough helped the Red Devils to a 10-3 season that included an eightgame win streak.

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OWENSBORO’S LIP SYNC BATTLE RAISES $74,000 TO BENEFIT PUZZLE PIECES

The cold temperatures and looming snow couldn’t stop over 1,300 ticket holders from attending Puzzle Pieces’ second annual Owensboro Lip Sync Battle on Saturday, January 19. The most money raised for People’s Choice was Talk to Tyler and the overall Grand Champion was the Owensboro Fire Department.

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THE

PULSE

OWENSBORO HEALTH REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Tick Tock: Time’s Up

FOR HEART DISEASE

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When people think of the difference in the hearts of men versus women, they might think of something along the lines of Mars versus Venus – emotional intelligence.

However, when one thinks of the hearts of men and women in relation to healthcare, there are many similarities; but it’s the differences that are often missed.

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ust as every home has plumbing and wiring, so does

symptoms of a heart attack, such as: chest pain, pain in

every heart. When those systems malfunction in a

the left arm, tightness in the chest or shortness of breath.

home, it wreaks havoc, and the body is no different. If

These symptoms are often seen in men. However, women

you have a leaky faucet at home, it might cause a loss of

are less likely to exhibit these symptoms. Women are more

pressure and slower water output. If you have a leaky valve

likely to present with pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder,

in your heart, it might cause shortness of breath or fatigue.

upper back or abdomen. Women may have pain in the left

When wires are disconnected in your home, it might cause

arm, the right arm or both arms. It could be that a woman

a short that leads to a series of sporadic surges in energy,

is unusually tired or nauseous. That shortness of breath

causing the power to flicker. Similarly, when the wiring

could appear alongside sweating and lightheadedness or

in your heart has a short, you might get an arrhythmia or

there could be no shortness of breath at all.

irregular heartbeat.

Traditionally, heart health has been focused on men.

commonly seen in women, it is easy to understand why they

That is not off-base, as men do have a significant risk for

may often be misdiagnosed. Having an occasional ache or

cardiac events. However, heart disease is the number one

pain, being tired, being nauseous, being short of breath,

killer of women in the United States across all ages and

sweaty or faint are all symptoms that could be attributed to

ethnicities. With such a staggering statistic in play, one

other factors, such as: aging, menopause, minor illnesses,

must ask why?

childbearing or rearing, or even leading an active lifestyle.

Some women may also report a sense of impending doom

Almost everyone is familiar with some of the classic

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that could be attributed to anxiety. That is why it

Owensboro Health is a one-stop-shop for

is important to pay attention to your body. If you

your cardiology needs. We have a great team of

suspect something is wrong, you should make an

general cardiologists, interventional cardiologists

appointment with a physician, and advocate for

and

your own care.

I am a heart electrician, and treat anything

related to abnormal heart rhythms. It could be that you have a slow heartbeat and need a pacemaker, or that you have a fast heartbeat that requires medications or procedures. Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common arrhythmias that I treat, and it

electrophysiologists

who

can

provide

comprehensive cardiac care. We provide imaging, diagnostic testing and inpatient or outpatient surgery and procedures for a wide variety of heart problems.

While it can sound clichĂŠ to say that you know

your body best, that is true in this instance. Being

affects 5.1 million patients in the US currently. We

aware of these symptoms can help you differentiate

can provide the best options for the management

something normal from a life-changing cardiac

of that common arrhythmia, to include medication

event. Call us to schedule an appointment, no

or an ablation where necessary.

referral necessary, at 270-417-7500.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, visit our walk-in clinic anytime from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday or call 911. Our offices are located in the medical office building attached to the hospital.

Dr. Sofya Kuznetsov is an Electrophysiologist with Owensboro Health Medical Group Cardiology.

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FROM THE DESK OF...

Laura Ruth

EDGE

OWNER, L. RUTH INTERIOR DESIGN

For many professionals, their office tells a lot about who they are. Whether it’s certificates and awards, family photos, or treasured memorabilia, the items displayed around someone’s desk can provide a window into their personality.

Owensboro is full of interesting business people with interesting stories.

“From the Desk Of…” gives those people’s clients, customers, family and friends an inside look at where they work and what makes them tick.

For our first installment of this exciting new feature, we visited Laura Ruth Edge, owner of L. Ruth Interior Design. Located at 1115 Tamarack Rd #100, the building’s unassuming façade belies the vibrant look and history of what’s inside.

Laura Ruth took the time to tell us the stories of some of her favorite items around her office.

WVJS MICROPHONE Behind her desk sits an old microphone that once belonged to the radio station founded by her granddad, Vincent Joseph Steele (VJS). “My aunt gave me this after my uncle passed away, and it was one of the things that every time I went to his office, I always admired,” Laura tells us.

What’s more, her office is now just a few suites down and in the same building as the radio station!

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CONFERENCE ROOM DOOR While her office is being housed in the same building as the radio station named after her late grandfather Steele, Laura Ruth’s actual suite is the former office of her grandfather Edge.

When she was looking for a new space, her grandfather Edge suggested that she take a look at his old office. Two months after he passed, Laura Ruth toured the space, and found that it suited every one of her office needs. “Being in this space has been really special for me knowing that he worked here.” As a tribute to her grandfather Edge, the door to her conference room was taken from the house where he was born in 1897.

MIRROR BALL In addition to her college diploma from the University of Alabama, as well as several certificates in interior design, Laura Ruth says her most prized trophy is the mirror ball from Dancing With Our Stars. The charity event that benefits the Boulware Center has become an annual event in Owensboro, and Laura Ruth is proud to have won the inaugural competition – and admits that she and Don Moore still rib each other about him taking the trophy the next year.

PHOTOS FROM TRIP TO ROME When she was 23, Laura Ruth took a trip to Rome. As a devout Catholic, a tour of the Vatican was at the top of her agenda. She memorialized the trip with photos she took that now hang proudly behind her desk. Also included in the photos is a window she passed that read “Architecture and Décor” in Italian, a fitting photograph to adorn the office of an interior designer.

Laura Ruth’s office is full of family history and personal touches. As she told us, “We don’t just design for others, we create a space that works for ourselves.”

If you know of someone whose office we could feature in an upcoming issue, tell us about it at steven@owensboroliving.com

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LFANTNYC.COM WORLDWIDE CLOTHING BRAND. CUT AND SEWN IN BY DANNY MAY

NEW YORK CITY. BORN AND BRED IN OBKY.

A

s an 8-year-old boy, Ryan Jackson often found

Visualize things certain ways. I’ve always loved bright

himself doodling sketches of flashy-colored sneakers

colors and always paid attention to what people wear.”

he would imagine in his mind. He dreamed of one day

working for one of his favorite brands, like Nike. He

says he was already looking beyond Owensboro during

just didn’t know how he’d ever have a chance to make

his high school years. But there were a few pivotal

his childhood dream of a career in fashion a reality.

moments at Apollo. “Mr. Phelps, my art teacher, was

Later, as a junior at Apollo High School, he’d

amazingly gifted, and I loved seeing what he created. He

spend his free time in the magazine aisle at Books-A-

inspired me. We could express our interests in his class

Million flipping through issues of GQ to catch the

and I’ll never forget that. Mr. Miller, my psychology

latest styles. It was already in his blood, and the man

teacher, also stands out in my mind. He opened the

who was known for his football skills to the outside

floor to debate and let me speak my mind. I always felt

world couldn’t deny his inner passion for clothing.

like he understood what I was trying to communicate.”

“I still remember the first Polo shirt I ever got,”

Which helps explain why, for the most part, Ryan

His lifelong passion for fashion began to develop

Ryan told Owensboro Living from his New York City

more intently when Ryan enrolled in the Miami

office. “It was a hand-me-down from my big brother. I

University of Art and Design in 2002. “Miami is not

ironed it. Always hung it up. Took care of it like it was

like the Florida most people think of from spring break

made of gold.”

trips or summer vacation. Miami is a culturally diverse,

Looking back, he says he’s always had a keen eye

very cosmopolitan environment.” Jackson found it ripe

for design. “I could always see things. Little nuances.

for creativity; seeing new things, exploring new trends,

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making connections and solidifying

on 5th Avenue in New York City, which

future business relationships, all the

is widely considered the retail capital of

while building his confidence through

America, if not the world.

internships

and

competitions

that

It was there that he put what he

were critiqued by other students and

learned in Miami into action. “I was

professors. “But what I think helped me

managing people, dealing with customer

the most (is) I learned to make products

relations, and meeting amazing people

people will look at and want to wear,” he

who have gone on to do phenomenal

explained.

things.” But most importantly, Ryan was

directly involved in the inner workings

After Miami, breaking in New York

City was the next step in achieving his

of

dream of launching his own clothing

interacting with buyers and decision-

line, but how he got there was a stroke

makers who determine which products

of luck that Ryan says “must have been

make it into other stores by testing them

divine intervention.” While he was in

on 5th Avenue.

school in Florida, Ryan worked at an

Abercrombie & Fitch store. When he

also afforded Ryan the opportunity to do

graduated,

transferred

some freelance design work on the side,

him to be general manager at the store

which eventually segued into full-time

Abercrombie

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Abercrombie’s

flagship

store,

Not only was it steady income, it

YOU CAN’T GET INTO FASHION UNLESS YOU’RE IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL. IT’S NOT A SPRINT; IT’S A MARATHON. YOU HAVE TO BE PASSIONATE ABOUT IT, AND THEN GO TO WHERE THE MARKET IS. - RYAN JACKSON

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“THE THING ABOUT NEW YORK CITY IS THERE ARE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE HERE. AND SO MANY OF THEM ARE CHASING YOUR SAME DREAM. IT FORCES YOU TO BE ON POINT. WHAT SEPARATES YOU IS HAVING A PLATFORM TO PUSH YOUR BRAND SO STORES AND BUYERS WILL SEE IT. BUILDING A VEHICLE IS WHAT MAKES YOUR DREAM BECOME REAL.” - RYAN JACKSON

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design work.

For those reasons, the GM position at the 5th Avenue

Abercrombie was a real transition point. “That experience helped me focus on what sells and what people want. I started to focus on what is my brand? What is my price point? Who is my customer?”

Finally, Jackson knew it was time to put some faith in

his experience and make the jump. The designs and styles he conceptualized from 2001-2009 became a collection in 2010, and LFANT, his own brand, was launched in 2011.

Pronounced “ele-ph-ant,” Jackson describes LFANT as

quality men’s clothing that uses luxury fabrics. The line is a collection of contemporary, traditional and vintage pieces including hoodies, jackets, sweatshirts, cotton tees, and fleece sweaters. “Our main focus is on details and making products with sustainability that stand the test of time, no matter what the trends are.”

Most importantly, it’s fashion made in America. “Yes,

it’s cheaper to manufacture overseas, but even though it costs more to make clothing here in America, I believe it pays off in the long run because of consistency of production. I can keep a

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closer eye on it here,” Ryan explains.

The past couple years Ryan says he’s been focusing

more on the “business side” of LFANT, beyond the creative side, and putting into practice all his experience in Miami and New York to navigate the changing tides in the fashion industry.

LFANT can be found in about 10 storefronts worldwide,

but the majority of sales are on online, not in brick and mortar stores. “Instead of focusing on getting into more stores, we’re focusing on making clothes for everybody, and building a brand that will be sustainable for a long time.”

Yes, the bright lights of the Big Apple are exciting, but

Ryan says his Owensboro roots keep him grounded. And don’t think for a second he’s lost his Kentucky accent. “Living in New York City is amazing, but my foundation is in Kentucky.

My upbringing and the things that Kentucky set in me early on serves as my compass. It’s in my DNA. It’s my culture. It’s imprinted on me. And I’ve always clung to it. The fact that I’m from Kentucky is fascinating to people in New York, and it’s more impressive to them than if I was from New York or Paris. It’s part of my story and I’m proud of it.”

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BY CASEY N TO HAMIL

Disney Dreams DO COME TRUE

Disney World in Orlando, Florida has long been known as the

“Happiest Place on Earth,� where many people love to vacation, often more than once. But for three local Disney lovers, being able to live, work and learn at Disney World is truly a dream come true.

Eva Cash, Jessica Gillim and Joy Beth Whitmer are three Owensboro

residents who have all recently been accepted into the Disney College Program.

Considering that the program receives 40,000 to 50,000

applications from all over the world each round and only accepts 10% of the applicants, to have three participants accepted from the same hometown is astounding! But combined with the fact that Jessica and Eva both graduated together from OCTC in December and Eva and Joy Beth work together at Chick-fil-A, the odds are even more impressive.

While in the Disney College Program, these women will spend five to

seven months working at Disney World, living in a safe, gated apartment complex reserved only for those in the program. For a nominal program fee, participants receive their first two weeks rent along with housing events designed to allow them to mingle and get to know others. After those first two weeks, participants are responsible for weekly rent, which includes a furnished and fully-equipped apartment, all utilities,

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PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

public transportation, access to a pool and gym, and free

of acceptances), that she was going to be part of the Disney

Wi-Fi. Disney takes the rent directly from the paychecks

College Program.

of each individual, and Program students are promised a

minimum of 35 work hours each week in one of the many

your problems at the door.” She hopes to

areas offered. This ensures they can easily afford rent and

cultivate that same philosophy in

other living expenses.

her future classroom, allowing

EVA CASH

Eva sees Disney as a place where you can “Leave

students to forget any stressors they have when they enter

Eva, age 21, just completed her Associate in Arts

her classes in order to

degree at Owensboro Community & Technical College.

learn and be successful.

After her time in the Disney College program, she plans

This future educator is

to return to Kentucky to attend WKU and complete her

also excited about the

bachelor’s degree in Secondary Social Studies Education.

different cultures she will

Eva had applied to the Disney College program two times

experience while working

previously, not even telling her parents, Greg and Vicki

at Disney World.

Cash, the first time. It seems that the third time is the

excited to be around and

charm for Eva, though.

work with kids from different

After submitting her application online, Eva didn’t

cultures and see the diversity that

learn until the very last day of notifications that she was

we don’t have in Owensboro. This

moved on to the next step of application, the web-based

will help me if I decide to teach in a bigger

interview, which Eva describes as a “personality test.”

city.”

Next, Eva was invited to complete a phone interview and

While in the Disney College Program, Eva will be

she learned on November 16 (once again the very last day

working in Quick Service Food and Beverage. While this

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“I am

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was not her first choice, Eva says,

While in the Disney College Program,

“I am happy I worked at Chick-

Jessica intends to enroll in seminars on

fil-A so long, so I am used to

resume building, networking and other work-

the routine of food service.”

ready skills. Her goal for her time there is to

JESSICA GILLIM

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feel for how the company runs in general.”

Jessica Gillim, the daughter

She hopes the program will allow her to “get

of Bill and Lisa Gillim, also

my foot in the door and help me to network.”

recently graduated from OCTC,

After conducting exhaustive research since

where Jessica earned her Associate

April, 2017, Jessica hit the ground running by

in Applied Science in Computer and

applying to the Disney College Program on the

Information

If you would like to follow Jessica Gillim’s journey, visit her channel on YouTube, where she will be vlogging her experience as she prepares to leave, during her time in the Disney College Program, and as she pursues her career.

“build professional relationships and get a

Technologies-Programming

very first day the application window opened.

degree along with seven additional Information

Then while vacationing, at Disney World of all

Technology (IT) certificates. Jessica, who often

places, Jessica learned she had made it to the

travels to Disney, was accepted to the Disney

next step in the application process.

College Program the very first time she applied.

At age 27, Jessica is certain she wants to be a

learned she had been granted entrance to the

software programmer. So she decided that

program. She will attend the program from

combining her passion for Disney World with

February to August, and will be working

her career goals would be ideal. “To do software

in attractions which could indicate she will

programming and work for Disney would be a

operate a ride or work in a parking area. After

dream,” Jessica explains.

the initial program period, Jessica plans to stay

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During the last wave of acceptances, Jessica

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in Orlando to, hopefully, work full-time in attractions for

person from the same hometown participating at the same

Disney World and continue her education toward earning

time to be a “huge blessing.” As a matter of fact, the two girls

her bachelor’s degree in IT.

As a full-time employee, Jessica can take advantage of the

will be roommates while in the program.

Disney Aspire program, which offers those who have been

Joy Beth will be working in merchandising while at

employed for 90 days or more a chance to attend college with

Disney World, and she hopes to take advantage of this op-

Disney paying for tuition and books. Then she would love

portunity to “gain more insight into the marketing aspect

to obtain an internship in software engineering at Disney, eventually working her way up to a full-time career with the company.

JOY BETH W HITMER Joy Beth Whitmer, age 20, is currently a student at Campbellsville University studying business. However, she hasn’t chosen an emphasis area yet. After visiting Disney

of the business.” While she is part of the Disney College Program, Joy Beth will continue taking classes full-time though Campbellsville University’s online platform.

World for the first time when she was 2 years old with her

According

parents, Rick and Carrie Whitmer, Joy says she has, “Loved

Beth, “Disney is admired

it ever since.” After a senior trip in high school, she decided

for their exceptional busi-

that, “It would be a dream come true to be able to create magic for people just like other Disney cast members.”

to

Joy

ness model. As a business

An employee at Chick-fil-A, Joy Beth has worked

major, I am excited to learn

alongside Eva Cash and considers having more than one

all they have to offer.”

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PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

BY Y MELOD CE A L L A W

A STORIED CAREER IN LAW 30 OWENSBORO LIVING

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Judge Joe Castlen, Division II Daviess County Circuit Court Judge, has had it in his plan for as long as he can remember to retire at the age of 70. However, 70 came and went in May of 2018, and Judge Castlen continued on.

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But, after the sudden death of a close family member,

himself, Castlen shared how Lucius Little talked the bar

and the encouragement of his wife, Castlen felt it best to

into adopting paintings of all the judges in 1905. He said this

follow through with his original plan. While his official

practice continued and they had most all of the judges until

retirement date is January 21, Castlen will remain on the

1962, when Castlen said they tore down the old courthouse

bench until a replacement is elected or appointed. Although

and the paintings “disappeared,” and were reportedly given

the ending of Castlen’s career appears to be getting the most

away.

attention, it’s the inspiration for its beginning that is even

more interesting.

that the majority of the paintings or details in the framing

What is most fascinating about the judges’ portraits is

Born the second of seven children and the oldest of

were designed or created by several of the judges themselves.

six boys—three of which (including himself) went on to

As the portraits wrap around the courtroom, one of the more

practice law and become Circuit Judges—one might have

recent paintings is of Judge Castlen’s younger brother, Tom.

reason to believe that law is in the Castlens’ blood. While

“I was in private practice over 23 years before I went on the

Joe Castlen says his brothers may not be able to offer an

bench,” Castlen said. “We were always going to practice

explanation as to why they went into law, he feels strongly

together and never did.”

that he understands his reasoning.

“I think the reason I went into law and the reason

to practice with his brother, as he feels strongly that they

they did is because of our brother Mikey,” Joe Castlen said.

would have enjoyed the experience, he said private practice

“Mikey was born in November 1953, and was classified as

was both time-consuming and “intense.”

profoundly mentally retarded and had Down syndrome as

well.”

“I had three heart attacks and open heart surgery after I

became a judge, but it was because of private practice,” he

Castlen said when Mikey was younger, the only state

While Castlen says he wishes he had the opportunity

“Private practice will wear you out,” Castlen said.

institution that provided care for children with disabilities

said with a laugh.

offered a concrete floor with a trough down the center

where residents would be washed off with a hose. He said

practice with his brother, they did try cases at the same

his parents would not stand for that type of treatment or

time, and he also had the opportunity to take over for Tom

care of their child, so they soon joined with other parents in

as Circuit Judge in 2008.

founding what is now referred to as The Arc of Owensboro/

Opportunity Center, Inc.

his time on the bench as both District and Circuit Judge,

Although Castlen was not able to go into private

Between his 23-year career in private practice and

“People would come in from out of town and talk

Castlen has seen a world of change. He described in detail

around the dinner table. We were immersed in their

the many uses of the in-chamber microphone he now uses to

struggle,” Castlen said, adding that those visits may have

hold private meetings, on the record telephonic conferences,

helped him and his brothers recognize the need for change

and to protect the privacy of children in sensitive cases. But

and the necessity to struggle for the rights of other people.

Castlen can still recall a time before there were microphones

in chambers or courtrooms.

That is not the only struggle Castlen keeps on the

forefront. Hanging on the wall that leads from his chambers

to the courtroom, Castlen has a large picture of Ruby

we used to use stenographers.” Castlen described the

Bridges displayed. Bridges, a civil rights activist, was the

infamous murder trial of Jesse and Roger Gentry, which was

first African-American child to desegregate the all-white

also the first time he was in a courtroom with microphones.

William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana. That

He laughed to himself as he was able to recall some of the

image has become more than just a moment in history to

things uttered aloud by him and his brother Tom without

him, and more of a reminder that each day he is fighting for

realizing the microphone was present. Castlen has also

someone and something of importance.

watched as technology has changed everything from the

way court documentation is taken to the way warrants are

“Every time I walk out I see that,” Castlen said. “That

“It’s a change from when we first started practicing—

to me is the most important picture I’ve ever had.”

filed electronically.

Upon entering the courtroom, Judge Castlen is

Regardless of the changes that have taken place over

surrounded by vivid portraits that serve as reminders of

the years, Castlen has stood by his desire to struggle for

those that have come before him. A natural storyteller

the rights of others, and work hard to make a difference,

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whether it is in teen court, juvenile drug court, or in criminal cases.

As to the future of law and the court system in Daviess County and what it holds, Castlen is optimistic.

“We have incredible talent in the young people in our bar. It’s

amazing. They are much better than we were—so much sharper,” Castlen said. “It’s not just the bar—here in town, we have an amazing group of young people in finance, in business and accounting.”

As Castlen looks at his own future, where he plans to travel with

his wife, spend time with his grandchildren, and further explore his hobby of painting through online lessons, he won’t be leaving the world of law completely behind.

“I’d like to drive around to different counties and dig up these

old stories. I had started a book for the lawyers to give them some flavor to their profession, make it a little more enjoyable perhaps— make a little more cohesive bar,” Castlen said. “When I first joined, we were just one big family. Practice has changed so much—I’d like to write that book.”

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BY

JAY FALLIN

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PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

W

hen the 2019 Kentucky Wesleyan College

the SEC, a consensus All-Conference Selection,

football season opens, the Panthers will have

and was named a College Football News All-

a new leader on the sidelines. Coach Craig Yeast,

American.

who rose to fame in the Commonwealth as a star

receiver for UK in the mid-90s, is the newly-

the 4th round of the 1999 NFL Draft. Yeast’s pro

introduced leader of the program. Yeast, who

football career spanned nine seasons. His most

replaces interim head coach Taurean Smith (3-

productive professional seasons came during a

7), believes he can create a championship-caliber

5-year stint with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the

program at Wesleyan. “There is tremendous

Canadian Football League. In 2004, while with

opportunity to build an excellent football

the Tiger-Cats, he hauled in 59 catches for 1,184

program at Kentucky Wesleyan,” Yeast said in a

yards and 8 touchdowns. In 2008, following a

press release announcing his hire. As a former

brief stint with the Saskatchewan Roughriders,

NCAA Division I and professional football

Yeast retired from pro football.

player, as well as a coaching veteran of 10 years,

When Yeast returned home to Danville

Yeast brings to Owensboro a wealth of knowledge

in 2008, he went to work completing his

and experience.

undergraduate degree at nearby Midway College,

After graduating from Harrodsburg High

while running camps for local high school football

School in 1995, Yeast enrolled at the University

players. It was at one of those camps that Yeast

of Kentucky. Yeast’s college football career began

was offered his first coaching opportunity. “Coach

under Head Coach Bill Curry. Curry’s tenure

Mike Settles of Lincoln County High School was

ended at UK in 1996, however, when he was

at one of my camps. He approached me at the

replaced by Hal Mumme. Mumme, a relatively

end of a session and offered me an opportunity

young and unknown coach in ‘96, brought with

to join his staff at Lincoln County,” says Yeast of

him to Lexington his offensive coordinator from

his chance meeting with Settles. Yeast accepted

his time at Division II Valdosta State, Coach Mike

Settles’ offer and began his coaching career that

Leach. Coaches Mumme and Leach ushered in

fall. He has quickly made his way through the

the “Air-Raid” era at Kentucky, an innovative

coaching ranks since that season.

style of offense that broke with Southeastern

Coach Yeast comes to Wesleyan from

Conference tradition, and one in which Yeast

Division III Franklin College (Franklin, IN),

flourished. “I came from a run-heavy system at

where he spent the last three seasons as offensive

Harrodsburg and in my first two years at UK

coordinator and quarterbacks coach. In his

with Coach Curry. Coach Mumme and Coach

time in Franklin, Yeast’s offensive units were

Leach opened my eyes and the eyes of everyone in

among the most prolific in the country. In 2017,

the country to what throwing the ball effectively

his offense finished 5th in Division III in total

looked like, and did it in the SEC,” says Yeast of

offense, and no Yeast-led Franklin offense ever

his introduction to Leach’s “spread” offensive

finished outside the Top 25 in total offense. “I

style. At the conclusion of the 1998 season, Yeast

believe that in order to be successful, an offense

was the all-time leader in career receptions in

must be a balanced attack,” says Coach Yeast

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Yeast was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in

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of his offensive philosophy. Prior to his time at Franklin, Yeast was wide receivers coach at Division II Tiffin University in Ohio. While coaching at Tiffin, he also received a Master’s Degree in Education from the university. Yeast’s time at Tiffin was bookended by two stints as a high school head coach: one at Bryan Station High School in Lexington, and one at Freemont-Ross High in Ohio. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with really talented coaches at every level, and I have taken a little bit from each experience along the way. I feel that I am very well-prepared for this opportunity,” says Yeast of his first foray into college-level head coaching.

Although Yeast’s career has afforded him the opportunity to travel across two countries and work with countless individuals, the one constant throughout the last two decades has been the love and support of his wife, Tori, and their children, Russ and Kiyah. Back in 1995, when Yeast was making a name for himself as a football star at Harrodsburg, Tori was excelling as a standout basketball player and track athlete at nearby Danville High School. “I’ve known her since my uncles were playing softball with her dad, back when we were kids.

We’d all be running around the ball fields, I was faster than all the boys and she was faster than all the girls.”

Craig and Tori will celebrate their 20th anniversary later this year.

Throughout his career as a professional athlete and as a coach, Tori has been his most important supporter. “Being a coach’s wife is hard. I’ll come home and tell her I’ve taken another job in another state, and she’ll say, ok, let’s get ready to move.” Yeast is quick to attribute his success to Tori’s support. “She’s my rock,” the coach says of his wife’s consummate help.

Yeast’s son, Russ, 19, is a sophomore defensive back for the University of Louisville. On coaching his son in high school, Yeast says “Coaching Russ taught me as much as anything else in my coaching experience. I had to learn how to adapt and learned that what worked for one young man might not work for everyone. It has really shaped how I coach and interact with young men.” Their daughter, Kiyah, 16, is a junior track standout at Center Grove High School in Greenwood, Indiana. “Last year, as a sophomore, she finished 4th in The State of Indiana in the 100 meter. This year she is starting to be recruited heavily,” says Coach Yeast of Kiyah’s track career. Yeast specified that his daughter would be remaining at Center Grove for the remainder of high school. “When our children were young, Tori and I decided that no matter where coaching moved us, our kids were going to graduate from the same high school. Russ graduated from Center Grove, and so will Kiyah.”

Yeast plans to build a championship caliber program at Kentucky

Wesleyan. He emphasizes, though, that his biggest priority is not wins and losses on the field. “We will be men of our word, we will be accountable to one another, we will be enthusiastic to attack each day with an attitude of gratitude. We will aspire to develop leaders that do what is right on campus and in the community.”

JAY FALLIN is a teacher and the head football coach of the Owensboro High School Red Devils. He and his wife, Allison, have two sons, Drew and Ben. 36 OWENSBORO LIVING

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439 FT

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Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know before the big race.

RUNNERS Wendell Foster expects that 1,000 runners will participate by race day. Thus far, 13 states are represented by registered participants: Kentucky, Indiana, New Jersey, Illinois, Tennessee, Ohio, Arkansas, Georgia, Missouri, Nebraska, Maryland, Alabama and Texas.

VOLUNTEERS Over 200 volunteers are needed to make the event run smoothly. Duties include organizing and handing out shirts, assisting runners

IMPORTANT DATES

March 7 @ 11:30 a.m.: General Volunteer training at Wendell Foster’s Young Building (815 Triplett Street) March 14 @ 12 p.m.: Water Station Training at Wendell Foster’s Young Building (815 Triplett Street) March 18 @ 11:59 p.m.: Online registration closes March 22 @ 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Race Expo at the Owensboro Convention Center March 23 @ 7:30 a.m.: Race starts at 7:30 a.m.

SPONSORS

The race wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Owensboro’s business community.

Presenting Sponsor: Owensboro Health

with finding their bib numbers, greeting

Gold: Tanner Publishing

participants, and providing race information.

Silver: Disaster Team, Legends, Rehabilitation and Performance Institute, VFW Post 696 & Auxiliary, Aqua Conti

To participate as a volunteer, contact Sarah Poole at spoole@wendellfoster.org.

Bronze: Robert S. Gleason Jr., Southern Star, Be Real Sports, Independence Bank, TTMA General Sponsors: Atmos Energy, Owensboro Pediatrics, Greg L. Adams, DMD, MS, PSC, and Hayden Construction Co.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTO BY TWO ARROWS PHOTOGRAPHY

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LOOKB OOK

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Registry To-Dos

FROM STUDIO SLANT Timing Register 6-9 months in advance, this will help friends and family as they prepare for engagement parties, wedding showers and the big day. If possible, make an appointment with the store so you get their full attention it makes for a much more personalized experience.

Gifts Register for more gifts than guests and make sure to include a broad price range of items. Keep special occasions in mind such as a special tray for your first Christmas ham or a cake plate to celebrate your first anniversary.

Involve the Groom There is always room for bourbon glasses, masculine accessories or even sports equipment!

Registries Register in more than one place but not too many. Each place should offer something different to all your guests.

Register somewhere local, somewhere online and somewhere big box.

Local Local wedding registries will be your best friend. They accommodate different types of showers, provide gift wrap services, delivery and get to know you and your style to PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

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provide each of your guests with a unique and personal shopping experience.

Finally Thank you notes . . . Always!

Studio Slant Wedding offers a truly unique registry experience celebrating your personal style as a couple. We offer lines such as Juliska, Mariposa, Kate Spade and Happy Everything along with anything you might need to set the perfect table or design the coziest home.

Studio Slant offers complementary gift wrap and delivery, many types of personalization and in house calligraphy services. Make an appointment to sit down with one of our Slant Sisters to craft the perfect wedding registry filled with gifts tailored to your lifestyle because “Slant Brides are the Prettiest Brides.�

Studio Slant is located at 624 Emory Drive, Owensboro, KY 42303.

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A WEDDING THAT’S

Uniquely You

BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

PHOTOS BY TWO ARROWS PHOTOGRAPHY

E

very single thing about a wedding is a personal touch. From the big decisions like the dress, the cake, and the venue, down to the tiny details like the color of the marker you’ll want guests to use when signing the guestbook. Wedding details can get (extremely) overwhelming, especially since the days of Pinterest began. It can be easy to lose your true self in your planning, while dangerously comparing your wedding to those you see online (which, let’s face it, are likely either stylized weddings that are organized specifically for vendor marketing, or weddings of people that have an “I own my own island” type of budget).

If you want to make sure you’re still incorporating some of the most important parts of your lives and keeping your wedding uniquely “you,” here are some ideas that can help out.

Your Hobbies & Interests This is a fun one. There are the obvious choices, like cake toppers or specific decor, but what about some smaller touches that are still important? You can incorporate your passions into wedding favors for your guests (like personalized CDs for music lovers or flower seeds for gardening enthusiasts). If you have a love for traveling, why not have guests sign a globe instead of a guestbook? Want to incorporate your passion, but it doesn’t really fit your wedding theme? Try some subtle or hidden “just for you” details that stay private and meaningful, like small enamel lapel pins under the bottom of the dress or back of the tie (they can be a logo from your favorite band, movie, or TV show). If he loves photography, sew a tiny camera patch into the inside of his jacket.

If she loves books, write out her favorite quote on the bottom of her shoe. The possibilities are endless! If you feel like your wedding www.OwensboroLiving.com

is getting away from you a bit, small details like this are a great way to bring yourself back into it.

Your Pets It’s very likely that if you have a pet, you think of them as part of your family. So experiencing such an important moment without every member of your family in attendance might not feel right to you. I’ve seen a lot of cute ring-bearing pups. If your venue won’t allow pets, consider having a trusted guest bring the pups to an alternate location for some quick photos with the photographer (and then offer that guest two extra slices of cake for the kind gesture). If you’re getting ready at your home, this would also be a great moment to get some photos with your pets! It is important to consider your pet’s personality. If they’re easily excited by crowds or it just might be too much stress to incorporate them into your wedding day, considering bringing them along to your engagement shoot! That way they can be a part of your Save the Dates.

Your Family There will always be family members that want to make it to your wedding, but can’t. Whether it’s because of deployment, illness, new babies, they are elderly or have passed away, there are ways to ensure these relatives are a part of your day. If you have family that is too far away, elderly, or deployed, try Skyping with them so they can still be in the wedding! If the person that can’t attend was supposed to be a part of the wedding party, a bridesmaid or groomsman could hold an iPad with the Skyping relative. If they are unable to coordinate the time to Skype, you could have a prerecorded speech to be played at the reception. If you want to go a more humorous route, print a giant cutout of the missing relative FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019

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to be sure to have some funny photos with them “in attendance.”

If you’ve lost somebody dear to you, there are many touching ways to honor them at your wedding. Many decide to wear a piece of jewelry, or pin a brooch, charm, or photo to the bouquet. I’ve seen people reserve chairs in honor deceased family members (including a personal item of theirs or a photo), or display family members’ photos throughout the reception venue. Some other options are playing a favorite song at the reception, or even sharing some favorite recipes as wedding favors.

Your Culture If you don’t want to throw a fully traditional wedding that follows your culture, but still want to express its importance, there are small ways you can integrate important aspects of your ancestry. Your reception meal could be traditional to your culture, the floral

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arrangements can be created with foliage from your ancestral country, or you can have small bits of cultural decor as table centerpieces. You can also incorporate specific music and dance, or have traditional rituals pertaining to your culture (for example, a Chinese tea ceremony or a Celtic Handfasting). If you want to reflect your culture with your wedding fashion, you could have small pieces like bow-ties, shawls, or bouquet ribbons made from traditional cloth (for example Scottish tartan or Ghanian Kente Cloth).

No matter what details you chose to be a part of your wedding, just make sure it’s something you truly love. The weddings you see online may go out of fashion quickly, so integrate the things that are most important to you, and not the cookie-cutter version of someone else’s wedding! If it’s important in your life, you won’t have any regrets making it a part of your special day.

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9 EASY WAYS

to cut s t s o c g n i d d e w

Weddings are expensive. Wedding costs can average over $25,000, and it can be argued that weddings are for the guests. The bride and groom hardly have time to enjoy themselves. There are numerous ways to minimize the expense of a wedding without detracting from the enjoyment. The keys are to think outside the box and prioritize.

Cut your wedding expenses and save money:

1. Book a venue that will allow you to choose your own vendors. Many venues require that you use their catering, bartender, and DJ. When you’re limited to a single option, that option is never the least expensive.

You probably know a bartender and a weekendwarrior DJ that could provide their services much more cheaply than those offered by the venue.

2.

Prioritize. Your priorities might be good food and music. Another couple might prefer a fancy reception location with great decorations. What’s most important to you? Avoid spending money on items that don’t matter to you.

3. Choose another day besides Saturday.

PHOTO BY TWO ARROWS PHOTOGRAPHY

Everyone gets married on Saturday. Though it can be less convenient, any other day of the week can be much less expensive. Caterers are looking for work, and the venues are largely empty.

4.

Cut the guest list down to size. Consider eliminating children and co-workers, for example.

Eliminating a particular category of people is less likely to cause hurt feelings. After you’ve cut the list once, cut it again. A smaller venue, less food, and less drink results in lowered costs.

5. Get a little help from your friends. Many hands make light work and lower expenses. Consider all the

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easier to accomplish if you choose an appropriate time to hold your reception. Early afternoon is the best time to avoid serving a full meal.

help your friends might be able to provide: • Flowers • Acting as a driver • Making side dishes for the meal • Decorating • Calligraphy • Baking the cake • DJ

department store. Bridal salons tend to be much more expensive. You might even find a dress at a vintage store that was worn only once.

6. Get married at the reception venue location.

9. Choose a DJ over a band. Paying for a five-piece

A lot of money can be spent on flowers and other decorations at the church. There’s also the cost of renting a limo or other transportation to get the wedding party to the reception venue. Many reception venues are happy to accommodate this request.

band will cost more than a DJ. The DJ can also serve as the master of ceremony. A good DJ will keep the festivities moving along at a reasonable pace.

7. Avoid serving a full-blown meal. Feeding a full meal to a large group of people is one of the most expensive parts of a wedding. Consider serving appetizers and skipping the fish and chicken. This is

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8. Buy the wedding dress at an outlet or

Ensure that your wedding doesn’t become a financial burden by making smart choices. With creative thinking and a little work, you can have a spectacular wedding that doesn’t break the bank. If you have a limited budget, you can still create a wedding and reception worth remembering.

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5 FREE APPS to help you plan your big day

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Looking to reduce the stress of planning a wedding? If you’re planning a wedding, I already know the answer is YES! It’s great to have help from family and friends, but why not also take advantage of the one tool you use to make a million other things in your life easier – your phone! Here are five FREE wedding apps that are sure to help make your big day a little less stressful.

1. iWedPlanner This app covers all your wedding planning bases.

Keep up with your to-do list and organize your vendors in one place. iWedPlanner even tracks your RSVPs and provides a seating arrangement chart for your reception.

2. WeddingHappy Plug in your anticipated wedding date, and let WeddingHappy do the rest. The app composes a

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customized schedule to keep you on track.

universal registry that makes it easy to add

You can also track payments to vendors and

anything from the internet, or even register

keep a spending summary. Another handy

for money donations. There are plenty of

feature is the ability to sync with other users

customization options, ensuring it will still

(like those helpful friends and family that are

feel like part of your magical day.

assisting you along the way)

3. The Knot Wedding Planner

5. Joy When it’s time to start planning your

Whether you want to check off to-dos on

wedding, build a website, create and

your wedding checklist, keep your wedding

manage your guest list, send paperless

budget in check, or make a quick update

Save The Dates and invitations, share

to your wedding website, you can do it all—

details about your event, and more. Joy is

and then some—using The Knot Wedding

awesome for guests, too. Use it to connect

Planner app.

with other guest before the wedding. It’s a

4. Honeyfund Wedding Registry

great way to put faces to names.

If you want to receive useful gifts, a wedding registry is a must. Honeyfund is a

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

AESTHETIC SPECIALISTS

FREEZE AWAY FAT WITH

BEFORE

Coolsculpting Q. WHAT IS COOLSCULPTING?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive, fat reduction procedure. It is a great alternative to liposuction. No needles, little to no downtime and no surgery. It is controlled cooling designed to eliminate fat in targeted areas of your body. Many of us have stubborn fat despite diet and exercise. Targeted fat cells are frozen and then die. In the weeks that follow, the body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells.

Q. WHEN DID AESTHETIC SPECIALISTS START COOLSCULPTING? We have been CoolSculpting patients since August of 2017. We have two coolsculpting technicians, Marty Russ and Hannah Horn. Both have been trained and certified by CoolSculpting!

Q. WHY DID YOU SELECT COOLSCULPTING FOR YOUR FACILITY?

AFTER (underneath the buttocks). We treat a lot of abdominal and flank areas. Usually, these are the most common areas of concern.

There have been 6+ million CoolSculpting treatments performed worldwide!

Q. HOW DO I KNOW IF COOLSCULPTING IS RIGHT FOR ME? We offer free consultations to anyone who is interested in CoolSculpting. A consultation is very important for a successful treatment plan. We can review your areas of concern and outline a treatment plan customized specifically for each individual. Call 270-302-4435 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Q. WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING MY TREATMENT?

We chose CoolSculpting due to the fact of the results. It is a result driven body sculpting technology with all the studies backed to it. We liked that we could treat different areas of the body and we have the ability to utilize various sizes of applicators so we can customize our patients’ treatment plans. We also treated staff members first to train and try out the technology and we were blown away with the results! Before and after photos can be found on our website, www.aestheticspecialistsmedspa.com.

Coolsculpting results are long-term, as treated fat cells are gone for good.

During your treatment, a gel pad or a gel and applicator are applied to the targeted area. Applicators that use vacuum suction will draw the tissue into the applicator cup. You may fell pulling, tugging, and mild pinching. Controlled cooling is then delivered to the targeted fat, so you may fell intense cold; however, this sensation typically subsides within 10 minutes as the area becomes numb. Many patients read or even take a nap during their sessions. Afterward, patients are usually able to return to normal activities.

Q. WHAT ARE THE TOP AREAS PEOPLE ARE USING COOLSCULPTING?

Results and patient experience may vary. While some patients may see results as early as 3 weeks after their first session, most dramatic results are usually seen 1 to 3 months after treatment ends. Before and after photos are taken with every treatment so we can track your progress and adjust treatment plan if needed.

CoolSculpting is FDA cleared for chin, back, arms, abdomen, flanks (love handles), inner thigh, outer thigh and banana roll

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Q. WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?

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SENIOR LIVING

BY DANA PEVELER

The Secret to a Long and Happy Life

In planning my grandfather’s 90th birthday party, I asked

support and caregiving, we are focused on someone else’s needs

him to provide me with names and addresses of those he

rather than our own. Friends multiply joys and dilute sadness,

wanted to invite. I was pleasantly surprised to receive a long list

ultimately having a positive impact on our health. Loneliness

of people, many of whom were also in their 90s, representing

can increase the risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure,

friendships that stretched as far back as childhood.

depression and other conditions detrimental to our health,

It made me wonder about the common denominator of

but developing positive social relationships decreases this

these older individuals who were still active and connected.

risk. A 2010 study focused on the association between social

Was it something in the area where they grew up that kept them

relationships and mortality found that people with healthy

healthy, similar activity levels and fitness habits, or maybe

relationships have a 50 percent lower mortality risk than those

dietary similarities?

with poor quality relationships.

Then I noticed that with each suggestion, Granddad would

Maybe it has something to do with staying active with our

say, “Invite this person, they stop in and visit,” or “Invite that

friends: Sharing a meal, taking a short trip, going shopping, or

person, we fish together,” or “Invite them, we hunt together.”

stopping in for coffee and a laugh. Maybe our friends hold us

accountable for our health. They remind us to follow up with

Then I realized: Each person was someone who had

invested time in my grandfather – and he in them.

doctor appointments, and encourage us to put down the donut

and grab the apple. Friends give us someone to stay active with.

A study directed by Dr. Robert Waldinger at Harvard

Medical School followed 268 men over the course of 80 years,

and eventually their children and spouses, to determine what

bouncing out of the play place at McDonald’s with the

I remember when my daughter was about 5 years old,

influenced life-long health. The study determined that healthy

announcement, “Mommy, this is Audrey. She is my new

relationships have a significant impact on overall health. We

friend!” I marveled at how easy it was for her to begin playing

spend time investing in our health through exercise, rest and

and sharing so openly. If only it were that easy as we age! But it

healthy eating, but do we invest in our social networks as

can be easier than you think. Here are a few suggestions:

diligently? We should.

Our friends and our spouses offer support during times

of high stress. Conversely, when we help others by providing 60 OWENSBORO LIVING

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TAKE A GROUP TRIP

This is a great way to meet people with similar interests www.OwensboroLiving.com

and share time together getting to know one another in a fun and

GO OUT!

easy environment. Even if you don’t have a “partner” to go with

you, you will still have something in common with the others on

other couples!

If you’re not married, date! If you are married, double date with

the trip! You won’t be the only solo passenger, I assure you!

VOLUNTEER

When you invest your energy and your time in a cause you

believe in, you will immediately connect with a social group with similar interests.

TAKE AN EXERCISE CLASS

A perfect way to strengthen your physical and social well-being!

You are in charge of how much you talk, but you’ll find you have more in common. Who knows, you may even burn off enough calories to head out for dinner afterward!

TAKE A CLASS

What better way to find others with similar interests than tak-

INVITE PEOPLE OVER FOR DINNER.

ing a class? It is a low-stress environment where you can engage in

conversation when you wish, at your own pace.

another brave soul!

JOIN A CIVIC OR CHURCH GROUP

Once again, when one is focused on a cause that others are also

engaged in, it becomes easy to build those relationships.

Show off your cooking skills, or try out a new recipe with

The key is to build relationships at any age. Sure, as we age,

some friends retire or move away, and some may leave us through sad means, but it is essential that we invest in building more friendships.

JOIN A BOOK CLUB

We truly were not meant to live our lives alone. Stay happier and

healthier by investing in your relationships and allowing others to

You will enjoy reading and sharing your opinions, and you will

learn a lot about the others in the group.

invest in you!

DANA PEVELER is the executive director of the Senior Community Center, located at 1650 W. Second St., Owensboro.

The Center offers activities, services and resources for people age 60 and older. Visit www.seniorcenterodc.com or call 270-687-4640 to learn more.

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THE

GETAWAY

36 HOURS inHenderson

ITINERARY AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HENDERSON TOURIST COMMISSION

O

nce home to legendary naturalist, John James Audubon, Father of the Blues, W.C. Handy, and others who turned life into beauty, art, and

commerce, Henderson is a place to be inspired. With a

is something special. Grab a bike from the bike share station at 2nd and Main and cruise the wide streets of downtown Henderson, admiring architecture ranging from pre-Civil War to the Victorian era.

vibrant downtown, the Ohio River up close, and nature and history as its backdrop, 36 hours in Henderson

5 p.m. – Get Back to Your Roots

promises the perfect blend of relaxing and adventurous,

While still on Main Street, snag a table at the local

with a slower pace and a ton of discovery. Pack your bags,

restaurant Hometown Roots. Housed on the ground floor

hit the backroads, and see for yourself all this charming

of the historic Soaper Hotel building, Hometown Roots

town has to offer.

serves up Southern-inspired, locally sourced dishes, like

FRIDAY

the Nashville Hot Chicken & Waffles, smoked meatloaf infused with gouda, and a to-die-for Kentucky Hot Brown.

3 p.m. – A Main Street State of Mind

A strong selection of signature cocktails and extensive

A drive down historic Main Street in downtown

local beer list pair well with great conversation with

Henderson is stunning in its own right, but getting out

owner Casey Todd, who is often on-hand to recommend

from behind the windshield and exploring on two wheels

the perfect pairing.

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7 p.m. – Bliss Handcrafted in small batches with an incredibly creamy texture, Bliss Artisan Ice Cream is a can’t-miss sweet spot for dessert after dinner. Flavors like peanut butter and jelly, sweet corn, and pecan pie—literally made with a 12inch pecan pie—are all perfect choices. Grab a cone and head to The Perch on 2nd Street, a pop-up park with a larger-than-life 1,200 square foot mural that makes for the perfect photo opp.

10 p.m. – Hit the Taps After a busy afternoon exploring downtown, enjoy a nightcap at Henderson Brewing Company, the town’s first ever craft brewery. What began as one gallon home-brewed batches by award-winning brewer Doug Laramie quickly

ZAGSTER BIKE SHARE STATION DOWNTOWN HENDERSON

blossomed into multi-barrel brewing and multiple styles.

Staples like Trixie’s Alibi Hefeweizen, Bright Spot IPA, and Bridgeview ESB are fan favorites that pay homage to the names of historic local taverns. Seasonal crafts are often available as well.

SATURDAY

9 a.m. – Tavern Life Featured in Huffington Post as a top 12 dive bar in America, Metzger’s Tavern is the second oldest tavern in Kentucky.

Locals love this no-frills atmosphere and a breakfast (and lunch, and dinner…) that can’t be beat. Locally sourced eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, and homemade biscuits and gravy pair perfectly with a mimosa or bloody mary, but be

MURAL ON SECOND STREET AT THE PERCH

prepared— locals will urge you to stick around for lunch to try the pimento cheese and chili.

11 a.m. – Adventure Outdoors With over 12 miles of winding trails that range frombeginner to advanced, John James Audubon State Park is the best place in the region for hiking. After exploring the park and taking advantage of the fishing, golfing, and seasonal kayak and canoe rentals, stop by the Audubon Museum, home to the world’s largest displayed collection of Audubon art and artifacts. Bringing your own kayak or canoe? The Sloughs Wildlife Management Area is a paradise for paddlers and nature enthusiasts. With over 10,000 combined acres of wetlands, woodlands, ridges, and open fields, exploring the Sloughs is especially lovely in the spring.

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JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK BIRD OBSERVATORY

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HENDERSON BREWING CO.

PRESTON ARTS CENTER

1 p.m. – Shop ‘til You Drop Enjoy an afternoon of shopping in Henderson. Simon’s Shoes boasts a century of history as a regional destination for shoe shoppers. Book a soap making class with Lucy Felty at LuciaSoapsEtc. and create your own sweet-scented souvenirs to take home. Browse antiques and rare finds at The Elm or Vintage Rescue and Apparel. Don’t leave without stopping by Tip Top Design Company, the perfect stop for all things fashion and lifestyle. Looking for a lunch spot? Try J&B BBQ, whose signature dish, the barbecued mutton, is a regional staple and can’t-miss meal while in Henderson.

3 p.m. – Hit the Vineyards For a Henderson County agrarian roots meets European charm experience, unwind for the afternoon at Farmer & Frenchman Winery. The farmer of the duo, Katy Groves-Mussat, was born and raised in Henderson County, while the Frenchman, Hubert Mussat, hails from Paris, France. The result of this fusion is really incredible wine and locally sourced ingredients for pizzas, pastas, and daily specials. The café deck and tasting room overlook the picturesque rolling hills of the vineyard, and one 64 OWENSBORO LIVING

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of three bed and breakfast style cabins created in the spirit of

flight or CKB’s signature cocktail, the barrel aged Manhattan

rustic elegance is the perfect place to call home during your

(made with Buffalo Trace). Not ready for bed quite yet? Pop

stay in Henderson. Interested in checking out another local

over next door to open-air On Deck on a warm summer night

winery? Boucherie Winery, located “out in the county” in

or across the street to Rookies Sports Bar (and restaurant)

Spottsville, is known for its wide variety of wines (and wine

for big screen game coverage or live entertainment by local

slushies).

musicians.

7 p.m. – Catch a Show

SUNDAY

The arts come alive in Henderson when world-class talent takes the stage at the Preston Arts Center. The Preston Arts Center proudly presents top shows from music and comedy to theatre and dance in a state-of-the-art facility, so you can’t go wrong with planning your visit around shows like Old Crow Medicine Show, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and Thompson Square.

9 p.m. – Time for a Nightcap

10 a.m. – Fresh-baked Breakfast On your way out of town, stop by Golden Glaze Bakery for fresh doughnuts and coffee made in-house daily. Golden Glaze has been a staple in town for over 60 years, and locals recommend branching outside the box for biscuits and gravy or freshly baked chopped cinnamon bread.

LODGING

What’s a getaway to a charming Kentucky town without a

There are a number of chain hotels and budget-friendly

little Kentucky bourbon? Not quite a bar and not quite a

options to choose from in Henderson. Interested in an

restaurant, Commonwealth Kitchen & Bar is considered a

authentic lodging experience? Rent a cabin from John James

gastropub, a British hybrid of sorts that offers a casual-meets-

Audubon State Park or Farmer & Frenchman Winery or

refined atmosphere. CKB has an award-winning bourbon

check out L&N Bed & Breakfast or Victorian Quarters in the

selection, making it the perfect place for sampling a bourbon

heart of downtown.

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THE

STYLE

Dresses to

CRUSH ON

BY JULIA HARTZ highheelsandhappyhartz.com

I’m most definitely a summer girl at heart, so it may surprise you to learn that February is my favorite month!

With a last name like Hartz, I grew up loving “heart” day. February is my birthday month, Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday, and pink is my favorite color, so how could it not be the best month ever, right? Whether you’re boycotting Valentine’s Day, celebrating with your galentines, or going out/staying in with your man friend, it’s a special month to celebrate!

One great thing about this month besides Valentine’s Day is the start of wedding season! Since you’ve picked up this wedding issue of Owensboro Living, let’s start by checking out some looks that would work for wedding wear and V-Day.

First up is this hot pink dress from Excursions. This dress is stunning. I posted a little preview of it on my Instagram the day of the photo shoot and got SO many comments and questions! The flirty one shoulder detail makes it so unique and fun, and this neckline is one of the best because it’s super flattering. Usually, this length of dress doesn’t look the best on me since I’m so short, but adding heels to it really made all the difference. So don’t be afraid of this dress length, short girls! Even though this dress isn’t white, you could wear it to an event as the bride, because it’s so exceptional and different and will set you apart from what everyone else is wearing.

Dress: $276 Clutch: $62 Bracelet: $24 Excursions 2738 Frederica St 270-926-8388

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PHOTOS BY KRISTIN BIVINS

Dress: $159 Earrings: $250 Peacocks and Pearls 4431 Springhill Dr 270-926-7467

Another pink option that doubles as a wedding guest dress, V-day dress, and bridal dress is this Julie Brown number from Peacocks and Pearls. I love the delicate blush color and the ruffle around the neckline and shoulders.

It’s so feminine and girly, and is a dress that will always be a classic, so you’ll never look back and think, “what the heck was I wearing?” You could wear this dress for years to come! I wore a variation of these Kendra Scott earrings in the last Owensboro Living photo shoot, but I couldn’t resist wearing them again with this dress, especially since they’re clip ons! The iridescence of the earrings picks up the color you wear with them, and the light pink looks so pretty reflected in these.

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A color that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon is the powder blue on this adorable Blush Boutique dress. What I love about this color is that you can make it work in several different seasons. You could add tights and a coat to this and wear it right now, or wear it with wedges when it warms up. This would also be a great dress for date night or a work event or party. The bell sleeves add a simple yet fabulous detail. One thing to remember: pearls are always a good idea! This necklace dresses up the outfit and goes great with the coordinating pearl bangles.

Dress: $45 Pearl Bracelets: $18 each Beaded Bracelet: $24 Necklace: $40 Blush Boutique 1020 Halifax Drive Suite 101 270-240-1974

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I was so excited to find something white to wear for this wedding issue, and Bella Ragazza exceeded my expectations once again! I love two-piece sets, and this one is especially great because it doesn’t show very much of your tummy, which makes it more versatile and appropriate for more events. This set is such a standout, it screams bride-to-be! This would be ideal for a rehearsal dinner or bridal shower, or as a special honeymoon look.

Top: $56 Skirt: $65 Bracelets: $18 each Bella Ragazza Boutique 120 W 2nd St. 270-926-9546

www.OwensboroLiving.com

New spring arrivals are headed our way in all of these boutiques, and some of them have already gotten in new merchandise!

They’ve got you covered whether you’re a bride, guest, or just need a dress for date night. I’ve had so much fun working on this wedding issue, especially since I’m a bride myself! Thanks for reading, and enjoy February and wedding season!

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THE

DISH

PHOTOS AND RECIPE BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

Sweet Treats Sweetheart FOR YOUR

Valentine’s Day. Some see it as the most romantic day of the year; others see it as a commercialized contrivance. All the pink, hearts, and squishy feelings might not be for everyone, but no matter your feelings, these recipes will warm the hearts of even the most serious of cynics.

If you want to celebrate your “love for love,” but don’t have enough time to show just how much you really care, these recipes contain four or fewer ingredients and can be done at the very last minute.

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STRAWBERRY SPARKLE Ingredients: 6 strawberries 1/2 cup coconut milk 1/2 cup (or less - depending on taste) sparkling water 1 tbsp (or more - depending on taste) sweetener Place strawberries and sweetener into a small bowl. Coarsely mash the mixture using a blender, mortar & pestle, or a fork.

Pour strawberry mixture and all other ingredients into a cup on ice. Stir and serve!

Notes: I used swerve sweetener. If you have another sweetener you prefer, make sure you know the conversion! I also used unsweetened coconut milk to keep it (added) sugar-free, with a teaspoon of homemade vanilla extract.

If you prefer sugar, you could still use 1 tbsp to sweeten things up, and try using vanilla coconut milk for a strawberry and cream flavor! www.OwensboroLiving.com

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STRAWBERRY JAM HAND PIES Ingredients:

1 pkg frozen pie crust 2 tbsp strawberry jam 1 egg (for egg wash) Unroll pie crust and cut out your pies with a heart-shaped cookie cutter.

Spoon 1 tsp into half of your heart shapes (the other half will be the tops).

Brush an egg wash around the edges of each heart.

Top the hearts containing jam with the other half of each shape. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges, and cut a small vent in the top of each pie.

Lightly brush more egg wash to the tops and to any extra shapes so they’ll adhere (if you decided to cut out any from the leftover crust).

Place your hand pies onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 20min at 375°F. (optional - add frosting to the top to make them even sweeter! If strawberries aren’t your favorite, any type of jam or spread could be replaced as the filling)

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VALENTINE POPCORN

Pop your popcorn.

Ingredients:

Melt chocolate by using a double boiler or by microwaving (stirring every 30-seconds) until smooth.

6 cups (unsalted/unbuttered) popped popcorn 12 oz. white chocolate 1 tsp salt Optional: sprinkles, candy hearts, pink food coloring

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To incorporate some pink popcorn pieces, set 4 oz. of the melted chocolate to the side. Mix in 2 drops of pink food coloring in a smaller bowl, then combine the colored chocolate with 2 cups of popped popcorn until covered.

In a large bowl, pour the rest of the melted white chocolate over popcorn and mix with a spoon until it’s all covered.

Take all of your popcorn and spread it in a single layer on parchment paper.

Sprinkle salt and any optional add-ins you’d like to incorporate (sprinkles, etc).

Let cool until hardened, then break up and serve.

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THE

SCENE

ARTS

THE WIZARD OF OZ February 7 | RiverPark Center There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful Wizard of Oz, twists its way into Owensboro!

The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, The Wizard of Oz will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz, complete with munchkins and flying monkeys. Don’t miss the chance to travel Over the Rainbow and experience this classic on stage. Tickets available online at OwensboroTickets.com or by calling the RiverPark Center Box Office at (270) 687-2787.

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY SONGS FROM THE STAGE AND SCREEN February 9 | RiverPark Center Owensboro Symphony Orchestra and Conductor, Troy Quinn presents Linda Eder, one of the greatest powerhouse voices of our times, will captivate the audience with favorite hits from the silver screen and stage, including her biggest hits from Broadway’s Jekyll and Hyde. Having performed for sold-out audiences across the country and throughout Europe, this performance with Troy Quinn and Owensboro Symphony promises to warm your heart on Valentine’s weekend. Tickets on sale online www.owensborotickets. com or call the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2787.

Purchase your season tickets just call the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra (270) 684-0661.

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CROWNS PRESENTED BY TWO February 15-24 | Trinity Centre CROWNS is a gospel musical by Regina Taylor, adapted from the book by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry.

When Brooklyn-born Yolanda goes down South after the death of her brother, she finds strength in the tales of the wise women who surround her—and the powerful rituals connected to their dazzling hats. This jubilant musical fuses Gospel music and rich storytelling with abundant “hattitude” in this rousing coming-of-age tale! Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Sundays at 2 p.m. 407 W. Fifth St. Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $18.00 for students (plus tax).

Tickets available online or call TWO Box Office at (270) 683-5333.

THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL February 15 | The Empress Theatre A country-rock and blues musical centered around regular guy Norbert and his agoraphobic wife Jeannie, whose marriage is threatened by a hot young stripper who has moved into the trailer park! Add dysfunctional neighbors Betty, Pickles and Linoleum (that’s right), and you have… well, what do you have? Tickets are now on sale for this performance online or by calling TWO (270) 683-5333.

Season tickets available!

www.OwensboroLiving.com

RHONDA VINCENT AND THE RAGE

SPRING BLUEGRASS CONCERTS

February 23 | Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum Deemed The Queen of Bluegrass by the Wall Street Journal, it’s only when you see this artist that you can feel the energy and experience the excitement of her music. Come see why she and her amazing band are the “Most Award Winning Band in Bluegrass Music History, with over 100 awards!”

Tickets are on sale now online or by calling the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum (270) 926-7891. Doors Open at 6 p.m. Show Begins at 8 p.m.

March 9 – April 12 | Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum Concert Schedule: March 9, Steep Canyon Rangers; March 16, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper; March 23, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen; March 30, Dailey & Vincent; April 6, The Isaacs; April 12, Sierra Hull. Tickets available online or by calling the Museum (270) 926-7891.

Doors open for all shows at 5 p.m., music begins at 7 p.m.

Discounted museum admission to tour exhibits is available to all concert attendees. Get your tickets early, the series will sell out fast!

SOMETHING ROTTEN! February 26 | RiverPark Center Something Rotten! is “Broadway’s big, fat hit!” (New York Post). Set in 1595, this hilarious smash tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom, two brothers who are desperate to write a hit play. When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical! With its heart on its ruffled sleeve and sequins in its soul, Something Rotten! Tickets on sale online owensborotickets.com or call the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2787.

AARON LEWIS IN CONCERT March 15 | Owensboro Convention Center Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum artist, Aaron Lewis to bring his “Sinner Tour” to the Owensboro Convention Center on Friday, March 15 at 8 p.m.! Reserved seating tickets are on sale online, $37, $57, and $77. Additional processing fees may apply to all ticket sales. Please note seating is not tiered and is all one-level, floor seating.

Limited VIP Parking will be available for $10 (cash only) in the Convention Center parking lot. Available for purchase on site day of event only.

AN EVENING WITH LEFTOVER SALMON: STORIES FROM THE LIVING ROOM February 26 | Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum Few bands stick around for thirty years. Even fewer bands leave a legacy during that time that marks them as a truly special, once-in-lifetime type band. And no band has done all that and had as much fun as Leftover Salmon. Leftover Salmon has been a crucial link in keeping alive the traditional music of the past while at the same time pushing that sound forward with their own weirdly, unique style. Join us for An Evening with Leftover Salmon “Stories from the Living Room,” touring behind their book, Leftover Salmon: Thirty Years of Festival!

Tickets are now on sale online or by calling the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, (270) 926-7891. Checkout the information on nearby hotels offering hotel stays and concert ticket packages.

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THE

SCENE

FAMILY

KIDS AND ART IN ARTLAND Owensboro Museum of Art ARTLAND, an exciting new dimension in education, is an interactive art studio created especially for children ages 4 to 10. It is a special place designed to challenge and stimulate the imagination, while allowing children to create works of art at their own pace. ARTLAND is FREE and open to all. Hours: Closed on Mondays; Tuesday thru Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday 1– 4 p.m.; Closed Holidays.

OPEN BOUNCE NIGHTS Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays | U-Bounce The perfect party place for kids. Amazing inflatables in an unbelievably cool bounce stadium. Private, clean and climate controlled. All children must wear socks. $7 per child, children under 2 are free, unless they are the only child, adults always free. On Toddler Tuesday, children 5 and under get in for $5 all night. Tuesday and Wednesday 5 – 8 p.m. and Friday 5 - 9 p.m.

Call (270) 685-1255 or visit ubouncepartyhouse.com.

FREE STORYTIMES

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

FREE VALEN-SLIME’S PARTY February 7 | Daviess County Public Library If Valentine’s Day makes you feel all icky, why not spend some time with slime? (Recommended for ages 6-12). Registration required. dcplibrary.org.

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY DISNEY IN CONCERT March 2 | RiverPark Center From Frozen’s “Let It Go” to Mary Poppins’ “A Spoonful of Sugar”, the music from Disney films has captivated children of all ages for decades. Watch the children’s eyes as those catchy, fantastic tunes are performed by Troy Quinn, the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, and four Broadway vocalists. Share in

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the magic of Disney and discover why these timeless motion pictures continue to enchant all. Bring your little pirates and princesses to experience this evening of magic! Tickets now on sale online www.owensborotickets.com or call the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2787. Purchase season tickets, call the Owensboro Symphony (270) 684-0661.

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ART SHOWCASE March 23-25 | Owensboro Convention Center The event is open to the public. This exhibit features about 600 two-and three-dimensional visual arts products, spotlighting student talents. There will be singing, dancing ensembles, music and visual arts. This annual arts showcase is designed to highlight individual and group student achievement in the arts and its positive impact. Admission is FREE.

PRESERVATION STATION MARKET DAYS February 2-3 & March 2-3 Held the first full weekend of every month. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 5 p.m. with over 100 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Hwy 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday Noon -5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook.

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ACTIVE

GREATER OHIO VALLEY PICKLEBALL INVITATIONAL February 8-10 | Owensboro Convention Center This 3-day event begins at 2 p.m. on Friday with Men’s

Firebirds on March 4 and 6. The Kansas City Tornadoes come to town to face the Thoroughbreds on March 20 and 21.

Tickets available online at OwensboroTickets.com or at the door one hour before game time.

Singles Skill/Age 19-49, 50+/ Women’s Singles Age 19-49,

WENDELL FOSTER HALF MARATHON

50+ and Junior Boys Doubles and Junior Girls Doubles Age

March 23 | Smothers Park Pavilion

10-18. This is a USAPA MMO Sanctioned Tournament, and

The Inaugural Wendell Foster Half Marathon will offer a

entrants must be a USAPA Member. For more information

flat and fast route of Owensboro, KY. The 13.1-mile race will

visit PickleballTournaments.com.

be fully supported including full and partial road closures.

The race will start and finish on the downtown riverfront by

OWENSBORO THOROUGHBREDS

beautiful Smothers Park. Cooler March temperatures will be

February 8, March 4, 6, 20-21 | Owensboro Sportscenter

will be conveniently placed along the course and the race will

The Thoroughbreds, Owensboro’s own professional

be professionally timed. Huge finisher medals will be given

basketball team, hosts the Yakima Sunkings at 7 p.m. on

to those that complete the course. Plus, prize money will be

February 8. Their next home stand is against the Raleigh

awarded to the top competitors.

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perfect for the half marathon distance. Eight water stations

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DOWNTOWN

NIGHT TO SHINE HOSTED BY LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH

February 8 | Owensboro Convention Center Life Community Church is excited to partner once again with the Tim Tebow Foundation and host Night to Shine 2019. Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience for people with special needs ages 14 and older. Doors Open at 5:30 p.m. and this special event will begin at 6 p.m.

ST. VALENTINE’S BRUNCH & ORCHID SHOW DEBUT

February 10 | Western Kentucky Botanical Garden Join us as Cupid’s Kitchen presents a St. Valentines’ Brunch for family, friends, sweethearts and orchid lovers! Featuring a buffet brunch with gourmet waffles made to order and other special dishes. Reservations required and include admission to an early peek of our Orchid Show and Sale. You can make your reservations online, through the mail, email or by phone. Members $25; Nonmembers $30; Under 12 are $12.50. (270) 993-1234

COMEDY STAR BILL ENGVALL

February 15 | Owensboro Convention Center Bill Engvall is a Grammy nominated, multi-platinum selling recording artist and one of the top comedians in the country. Bill was part of the enormously successful Blue Collar Comedy concert films, which sold over 9 million units and received a Grammy nomination. The Owensboro Convention Center is excited to have announced his upcoming performance in Owensboro. Tickets are now on sale now! Purchase online at OwensboroTickets.com, at the Owensboro Convention Center Box Office, or charge by phone at (270) 297-9932. Additional processing fees may apply to all tickets sales.

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5TH ANNUAL ORCHID SHOW AND SALE

February 17 | Western Kentucky Botanical Garden Come by and visit our Conservatory from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and take home some of nature’s finest creations!

A perfect Valentine’s Day gift for our loved one!

2019 OWENSBORO HOME AND GARDEN SHOW

March 1-3 | Owensboro Convention Center Homeowners, get ready to plan your spring and summer projects! The Home Builders Association of Owensboro will have over 44,000 square feet of exhibitors showing the newest innovations in home design and remodeling ideas! All aspects of building and remodeling will be on display!

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THE LAST WORD

A VALENTINE’S DAY LESSON

A

h, Valentine’s Day. A day of hearts and flowers and Cupid and love.

And if you happen to be in the age range of, oh, say, 4 to 10 or 11, it’s also a day for cupcakes with pink icing, and conversation hearts, and the annual Valentine Post Office at school.

This is a big deal.

First, you have to make sure your Mom buys just the right package of valentines. You can’t be too cautious here. These cheap, throw-away cards might not be valuable in and of themselves, but the sentiments are priceless, and must be chosen with care for each individual recipient.

Television and movie cartoon characters are okay, but you want to be sure to pick one that represents you, as the giver, in the best and most appropriate light.

You are not at all surprised when the class clown chooses SpongeBob SquarePants to convey his messages of “Hope your Valentine’s Day is a jellyfish jam,” whatever that means; and of course the pretty girl who always wears a big bow in her hair that matches her many adorable outfits would select JoJo Siwa to convey her messages of “You Are Super Cute!”; and then there are the emoji-themed cards whose images speak for themselves. As emojis do.

With any luck, your mother is patient enough to allow you to roam back and forth in front of the selection of those thin cardboard boxes wrapped in shiny red cellophane, anguishing over whether to go with the classics (“My Little Pony,” Mickey and Minnie …) or something a little more unique.

Adding to the weight of this decision is the drama of begging your Mom to spend a little more for the cards with a scratch ’n’ sniff patch – after all, you can’t go wrong with a strawberry-scented message – or one with glitter, stickers, or a temporary tattoo.

But one thing you know for sure in the dark corner of your elementary-school-aged heart, and that is that one of your classmates will most definitely NOT receive one of your precious valentines.

You call him Stinky – but only when the teacher isn’t around, of course.

He dresses funny and he never combs his hair. His desk is

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BY LORA WIMSATT overflowing with crumpled paper and he always has to borrow a pencil from the teacher. His cubby is a mess and his backpack is dirty. It’s the same backpack he dragged back and forth to school last year, too, and the year before that, now that you think about it.

You try to shuffle yourself into place so that you never have to walk next to him when the classroom lines up to go to gym or music, and you definitely don’t want to sit next to him at lunch. He shoves his food in his mouth real fast and chews with his mouth open and then spends the rest of the time staring while you pick out only the cherries to eat from your fruit cocktail and nibble politely at the edge of your chicken pattie – using your best manners, of course.

But your plan is thwarted when your mother double-checks your valentines and notices that you have overlooked one of the names on the class roster your teacher sent home. You pretend it was an accident, but your Mom is still standing there … so you slowly sort through the leftover valentines to find one whichever one would be the least mortifying to give to Stinky. One without too many hearts, and certainly not with a message like “Be Mine” or “My Heart Belongs to You!” You finally settle on a card with the most generic message possible, one that could not in any way be misunderstood as saying you actually like this kid or want him to be your valentine, and you scribble your name on the back – your Mom is still watching – and his name on the envelope, and silently vow to throw it away as soon as you get to school.

But you forget.

So when it’s time to walk around the classroom and tuck cards into the shoeboxes that were decorated as part of art class last week and are now lined up on top of the bookshelves, you find yourself trapped with no way to discreetly escape this situation.

So you drop your card into Stinky’s box.

And that’s when you see that while all the other boxes are overflowing with dozens of cards … there are only three lonely, forlorn envelopes in Stinky’s.

Ah, Valentine’ Day. A day to learn what real love is all about.

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