Owensboro Living – September/October 2024

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S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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Trending B E H I N D T H E S C E N E S EDITOR’S NOT E

The Value of a Coach In this issue, we highlight some of the most integral parts of our community – family business and sports.

Both institutions are sources of pride for Owensboro residents, whether they’re patronizing a local storefront, or cheering on their favorite team. As a small business owner, I appreciate the long hours and hard work it takes to grow a company. And as a sports fan, I understand the importance of good coaching.

When I was young, my dad often coached my soccer teams. Some of my closest friends now are high school coaches. But it wasn’t until I became a dad that I truly recognized the value of a good coach. As my children have begun playing competitive sports, there is no one more important to their success than their coaches. And while anyone can don a whistle and a clipboard, it takes a special individual to truly be a coach.

From my experiences, a coach is not just someone who understands the nuances of a game. A good coach is a teacher. A good coach is someone who believes in

EDITORIAL EDITOR

Steven Wilson PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Becky Bernhart Libby Johnson Marlys Mason Danny May Kristi McCabe Jamie Plain Jacqueline Russell Lora Wimsatt

Do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to steven@owensboroliving.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Brock Quinton

Owensboro Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise.

For more information about advertising call 270-297-1600 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

you, lifts you up, and helps you strive to be your best. A good coach is a person that

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

offers correction and holds you accountable, but also encourages you to get back

S TA F F P H O T O G R A P H E R

up and try again. A good coach doesn’t take themselves too seriously, recognizing that part of coaching kids is also about having fun. And a good coach realizes that winning is important, but not as important as being a good human being.

Jamie Plain

L AY O U T D E S I G N E R

Andrea Roberson AD DESIGNER

Monica Tapp

STEVEN WILSON, EDITOR steven@owensboroliving.com

DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey

W H AT I ’ M RE A D I N G

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride McBride’s novel, set in the Chicken Hill neighborhood of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, opens to construction workers unearthing a human skeleton. Readers are then transported back to the 1920’s, where the author brilliantly develops the characters that inhabit the Hill. Those residents include African American families that migrated north to find freedom and the hope of a better life, as well as Jewish immigrants from Lithuania, Germany and Poland. Met with opposition, or, at best, indifference, from the town’s white residents, the novel depicts the minorities’ struggles to reach the American Dream while existing on the margins.

Ultimately, the book is a tale of hope, fear, loss, racism, adapting to changing times, and justice.

6 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

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Contents

SEPT/ OCT 2024 TRENDING

6 BEHIND THE SCENES A note from our editor.

8 NEWSWORTHY

The real people, places and events that shape our community, brought to you by the Owensboro Times.

CULTURE 12 M U S I C

Sanctus Real: Grammy-Nominated Band Closes First Fridays Concert Series

13 I N T H E K N O W

Your guide to what’s happening in and around Owensboro

LIFESTYLE 40 H O M E

Decorating Your Home for Fall on a Budget

42 H O M E

Pumpkin Patch Picks: Local Spots to Buy Your Pumpkins This Fall

46 S E N I O R L I V I N G

What Every Baby Boomer Ought to Know about Fitness Centers

50 G A R D E N

Planting in the Fall

CHAMBER CURRENT

51 What’s Happening With The Greater Owensboro Chamber Of Commerce

FLAVOR 66 R E C I P E

Sweet & Savory Pumpkin Recipes

FEATURES:

18 THE HAMPTON TWINS Gifted Owensboro Athletes Stand Out Both On and Off the Field B Y M A R LY S M A S O N

22 DUGAN BEST

Celebrating 50 Years of Making a Difference in the Lives of Countless Children in our City

BY KRISTI MCCABE

24 THE WILFORD WAY

Corey Wilford is Making a Positive Impact on Owensboro’s Youth With Basketball

69 D I S H

What we’re eating now: Local dishes we can’t live without!

70 R E S TA U R A N T S P O T L I G H T McHenry Event Planning

BY LIBBY JOHNSON

26 FAMILY BUSINESS Local Institutions are Carrying on Tradition and Serving the Community for Generations

BY LIBBY JOHNSON

SPECIAL SECTION

30 PROFILES

OF FAMILY BUSINESSES

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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Trending N E W S W O R T H Y

5 things we’re talking about now

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Owensboro Team Reclaims World Pushup Record On July 27, a group of 10 men reclaimed the world record for the 10-man, 4-hour pushup relay at Iron Jungle. With 22,784 pushups in 4 hours, the men shattered the previous world record by more than 5,000 pushups. The team was comprised of Bob O’Brien, Collin

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Thompson Courts Added to Owensboro Tennis Complex Three new tennis courts were unveiled on July 26 at the Owensboro Tennis Complex at 2965 Bittel Road. Recognizing the Thompson family’s contribution to the project, the courts were named in honor of William H. “Bill” Thompson, whose son, Tommy, spoke during the opening ceremony.

Carrico, Mazden Ng, Dale Stevens, Blake Roberts, Steven Stevenson, Zach Kirkman, Kaw Wah,

During the event, hosted by Owensboro Parks & Recreation in partnership

Zachary Clark, and

with the Owensboro-Daviess County Tennis Association, it was also

Reece Carroll, while

announced that other courts across the city have been upgraded thanks to

Anthony Tate served

$100,000 in grants from the USTA.

8 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

as an alternate.

Brought to you by O W E N S B O R O T I M E S

5 Community Rallies for Rhodes The Whitesville and Knottsville communities came together in a big way over the weekend, raising more than $100,000 for the family

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of Braxton Rhodes, an

Mizkan Expanding

11-year-old boy who

Governor Andy Beshear announced in late July that Mizkan America (MA), known by most locals as Ragu, is expanding in Owensboro. The industryleading producer of pasta sauce and vinegar products pledged a $156 million investment, creating 44 new jobs. Company officials said the Owensboro facility would expand by 320,000 square feet, bringing its total operational space to over 970,000 square feet. They added the new space would allow for building improvements, new machinery and equipment, IT upgrades, and “related assets that will help Mizkan best meet the current and future needs of its customers while maintaining its position as a market leader.”

lost his leg following a recent ATV accident.

Michael “Doodle” Morris and his friend Adam Howard developed a plan and leaned on several volunteers to bring the fundraiser to life at Morris’ home, attracting more than

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1,000 attendees. The

Habitat Completes 159th Home Habitat

for

event featured various activities, including pre-sold meat sales, a silent auction with 110 items, a live auction

Humanity

Owensboro-Daviess

with 30 items, and even

County

helicopter rides provided

announced the completion

by Vortex. There were

of its 159th house in the community marking

in a

August,

also 50/50 drawings,

significant

bake sales run by local

milestone in its mission to

youth, and performances

provide affordable housing.

by six bands.

The newly constructed threebedroom, two-bathroom home on Walnut Street was built on a lot donated by the City of Owensboro and has passed its final inspection. The City of Owensboro supported the project, which benefited from numerous community partnerships. “Creating equitable opportunities for our community requires resources, and we appreciate the support from the City of Owensboro,” said Dr. David Danhauer, Habitat Board

GET MORE NEWS LIKE THIS ON THE OWENSBORO TIMES APP. DOWNLOAD THE APP TODAY ON THE APP STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY.

Chair. “This support helps us continue to provide decent and affordable housing to residents in our community.”

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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MUSIC: SANCTUS REAL p. 12

IN THE KNOW: 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR p. 13

→

CULTURE

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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Culture M U S I C

Sanctus Real

G R A M M Y- N O M I N AT E D B A N D C LO S E S FIRST FRIDAYS CONCERT SERIES Written by D A N N Y M AY

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T

he Owensboro riverfront was fully

The

guys

seemed

relaxed

and

alive on August 2nd. Not only did

unhurried, giving me their full attention

SANCTUS REAL:

BY THE NUMBERS

music fill the air from multiple stages

as we talked, but they were clearly

2 8 -Y EA R CA REER SPAN

while crowds filled the streets along the

energized and confidently ready to take

“mile of music” at Friday After 5, but

the stage for the crowd that was steadily

2 G R A MMY ® AWAR D NO MINATIO NS

Grammy-nominated Sanctus Real also

gathering below us.

1 G MA D OVE AWAR D ®

performed on the outdoor stage behind

We talked through the band’s 20+

the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame &

years of touring and grinding, all

1 0 STU D IO A L B U MS

Museum to close out the 2024 season of

the while amassing 24 radio hits and

the First Fridays concert series.

exceeding 750,000+ album sales. We

8 NU MB ER O NE SONGS ON C H RISTIA N R A D I O

6 G MA D OVE NO MINAT IONS

8 TO P F IVE SING L ES ON MU LTIPL E C H R IST IAN R ADIO F O R MATS

Contemporary

also dove deep into their rebuilding year

Christian Music concert series is a

of 2016 and what it was like to basically

unique offering for the Bluegrass Music

start over. That was the year original

Hall of Fame and Museum. Presented

lead singer, Matt Hammitt, decided to

on the Michael Horn Family Foundation

leave the band to spend more time with

Outdoor Stage, the series is an annual,

his family, which left the two remaining

family-friendly event made free for the

original

entire community thanks to a long list of

(drums) and Chris Rohman to do some

generous donors.

soul searching of their own. In that same

BEHIND THE SCENES

Sarah Kroger and Jordan St. Cyr

timeframe, Chris and Mark also ended

Touring bands like Sanctus

headlined shows in June and July, but

a longtime partnership with their label

Real are pleasantly surprised

it was long-time chart toppers Sanctus

and began a search for a new booking

Real who closed out the First Fridays

agent.

The

First

Fridays

members

Mark

Graalman

“We started this band in our parents’

series in August.

2 1 0 + MIL L IO N TOTAL STR EA MS

to find some unexpected conveniences when they perform at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame. A freight elevator

Just after sound check, singer Dustin

basement and never knew we’d get this

Lolli and guitarist Chris Rohman sat

far,” Chris shared. “When Matt left,

down with Owensboro Living at a table

Mark and I just started praying and

loading gear to the stage. In

on the third floor riverview room

waiting to see what God had planned for

addition to a private bathroom

overlooking the lawn as a few early

us.”

in the backstage area, band

fans began unfolding lawn chairs and

Luckily, they soon found former

spreading blankets near the front of the

worship

leader

Dustin

Lolli,

who

stage.

instinctively brought a creative influence

at the rear of the building provides easy access for

members also have access to an upstairs greenroom complete with a shower and washer and dryer.

IN THE KNOW 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR

1 OWENSBORO AIR SHOW

S E P T E M BE R 1 3 -1 5 @ D OW N TOW N OW E N S BO R O

Friday will be your chance to meet some of the pilots of these aircraft and experience a taste of the Owensboro Air Show. As the sun begins to set, a few performers will take to the sky to entertain the crowds with an evening spectacle of nighttime air show performances. The evening will conclude with a fireworks finale! Food trucks will be on site as well. On Saturday and Sunday, all eyes will be on the skies over the Ohio River as performers showcase vintage warbirds, aerobatic demonstrations, and military jets, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels!

2 REPTILE AND EXOTICS SHOW 3 MARIACHI FIESTA NIGHT S E PT E M B E R 14 @ OWE NSB OR O N AT I ONA L G UA R D

The Owensboro Reptile and Exotics Show is coming back to town Saturday, September 14, from 10am4pm at the Owensboro National Guard Armory. It is going to be a fun-filled show with thousands of amazing animals, feeders, pet supplies, and many other cool items. Whether you just want to see and learn about all of these incredible animals or are looking for a new addition for your collection, this is the place to be.

Admission is $5 per person, and kids 4 and under are free.

SE P T E M B E R 19 @ WEST E R N KE N T U C KY B OTA NI CA L G A R D E N

Western Kentucky Botanical Garden is bringing Mariachi and Margaritas back to the Botanical Garden. Escape to Mexico without leaving Owensboro. The garden will be a stunning backdrop to a Mexican Fiesta. $10 admission for Adults, kids under 12 are free. (pay at the door) Bring your lawn chairs and stay awhile.

Cash Bar and Mexican Food trucks will be there serving up Margaritas & Beer and your favorite Mexican foods.

The night will also include a pinata and a cascarones smash, and authentic Mexican dancers.

→

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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Culture M U S I C to the band and a much more soulful vocal delivery than the band had before. The trio dove right into the next phase of the band’s career by writing, recording, and revealing their new sound to the world with their 2018 album Changed, which featured the breakout hit “Confidence.”

Since then, the radio hits kept coming with “Unstoppable God,” “Today, Tomorrow and Forever,” and many more that were blasted to the crowd on August 2nd. Later, after our pre-show interview, the band tastefully kicked off the show with a medley of the band’s pre-2016 hits to pay homage to their past, then settled in to their current sound and passionately delivered a message of hope, faith, and perseverance through song.

Here’s what Dustin and Chris had to share with OL readers:

O L - On a night like tonight, at an outdoor festival, do you feel a different energy from your vantage point on stage compared to a show in an indoor venue?

D U STIN - At an outdoor concert or festival like

THE OUTDOOR STAGE: FUN FACTS The Horn Family Foundation Outdoor Stage and greenspace is not solely used for the First Fridays Series; it’s also used for other events like the

this, I don’t expect to get the same energy as we do in an indoor show because people are

Nashville Songwriters Series, the annual Air Show After Party, RompTober,

sitting in their chairs, it’s hot, some people

and the Great Race. First Fridays is a free community event, so there’s

are up and moving around. They’re not here

no way of knowing the exact attendance, but the greenspace seats

just to see you and packed right up against the

approximately 1,200. Over 1,000 tickets were sold for a ticketed event on the Outdoor Stage in 2019.

IN THE KNOW 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR

4 PUPS IN THE PARK

S E P T E M BE R 2 1-2 2 @ PA N T H E R C RE E K PA R K

Kentucky DockDogs is excited to announce this unique event in collaboration with Daviess County Parks & Recreation and Visit Owensboro.

Spectators can expect to watch two exciting days of competition with dogs of all different backgrounds, sizes, and skill levels. DockDogs consists of three different sporting disciplines, Big Air, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve.

50-75 teams are expected to compete.

Admission to the park is free for both days of the event.

14 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

stage like they would be at an indoor concert.

But at the same time, I’ve been very shocked

5 WINE YOUR WAY OUT

S E PT E M B E R 28 A ND OCTOB E R 4 @ T RU NNE LL’S

Join Trunnell’s for Wine Your Way Out, their exclusive wine & bourbon tasting adventure, held within Trunnell’s Corn Maze, and featuring excellent wines from local wineries, local brews, and smooth Kentucky bourbon from Green River Distillery. The maze is transformed into the perfect date night or social event as guests navigate the corn maze with their complimentary “Wine Your Way Out” glass in search of the wine and brew stations, Kentucky bourbon, and appetizer stations.

6 CELTIC THUNDER

OCTOB E R 11 @ R I V E R PA R K CEN T E R

“Odyssey,” a new show from internationally acclaimed group Celtic Thunder, is a fascinating exploration of Irish music and culture, firmly grounded in the ensemble’s impressive history, while ambitiously forging new paths. The word “Odyssey” implies a significant journey, and that’s precisely what audiences are invited on – a sweeping voyage through the heartlands of traditional Irish music, the rhythmic pulse of contemporary Irish music, and the innovative original arrangements that are emblematic of Celtic Thunder’s unique sound.

before, so I try not to come in with

band is a ministry, but it’s music. It’s

a show - to play well and perform

expectations. I try to be very aware

music that is ministry. Each Christian

well. That was harder for me because

of the audience; whether it’s a CCM

band handles that balance in their own

I was a music pastor first. It comes

(contemporary

way.

naturally to me because I did it for so

Christian

music)

audience or we’re playing at a church

long. But for me the most important

or at a festival, because if I know

CHRIS - Yea. I would say some bands

part is allowing every night to be

there’s a lot of people around that

are artists first. But I think Dustin

different because every crowd is

might not know Jesus then I try to

coming from the church world, being

different. There might be somebody

present a much more welcoming vibe

a worship leader, that’s part of the

here tonight that we can speak into

from the stage in how I speak and

gig. You’re there to be aware of what

their life. We take that seriously.

interact. So I try to feel it out from the

people’s needs are and how the Holy

stage and treat each night according

Spirit is leading you. We’ve toured

O L - Chris, do you and Mark view it

to what it needs.

with plenty of bands who stick to a

as “phase one” and “phase two” of

script. But in these types of events

Sanctus Real? And how does the grind

CHRI S - We usually can tell in the first

like tonight, we are attentive to

of getting to where you were in 2016

few songs. We sense it and we can

what’s happening.

compare to the blur of 2016 until now?

respond to it.

D UST IN - I think the challenge for us

C H R IS - It is remarkable to look back

DUSTI N - Yeah, it’s an awareness. I

is when you have a song that’s out

and remember what it was like in

can’t put it into words easily, but for

there, then all of a sudden you start

those different seasons - recording

me, the prayer is just to make every

hearing all the ways God has used a

our first album, hearing our first

night unique. You don’t know what

song to change people’s lives. That’s

song on the radio. Then the tours.

people think or believe, or where

very humbling. But you also start

Then you get to a point with version

they’ve come from. So the prayer is

to realize that people look at you

A of the band we could have thought

to just be sensitive, but also be honest

differently. That can be dangerous

“This is it. We’ve done it. That’s

with ourselves, and not get into such

in some ways if you don’t take that

all there is.” But we started when

a routine show that it’s the same

seriously. So for me, it was like, if

we were teenagers, and I couldn’t

exact thing night after night and

we’re already ministering to people

help but feel there was still more

there’s no value to it. I don’t want

through the music, then I don’t want

for us. It didn’t click to me that we

to get into this mode where I’m just

to let people down in my own life.

were done. For me, it felt like God

doing a concert.

I’ve always been in ministry so that

has given us these abilities and the

was easier for me. What was harder

experience of all those years. It takes

for me was learning how to put on

countless hours of writing, honing,

OL - That makes sense because your

ISAACS - A TRIBUTE TO THE 7 THE GRAND OLE OPRY O C TO BE R 1 7 @ BLU EGRASS M U S IC H A L L O F FA M E A N D M U S E U M

Multifaceted award-winning group The Isaacs have spent five decades creating the undeniable family harmonies and distinct sound that have made them a favorite among audiences everywhere. As matriarch Lily and her three children Ben, Sonya and Becky celebrate their 50th anniversary, the 2021 Grand Ole Opry inductees and Gospel Music Hall of Famers continue to build on the legacy first launched by the family back in 1971, with a newfound excitement and never-waning passion for the music they love to make.

8 HALLOWEEN HULLABALLOO 9 SYMPHONY SPOOKTACULAR OCTOB E R 25 @ Y E LLOW CR E E K PA R K

Bring your family to the first-ever Halloween Hullaballoo at Yellow Creek Park. This free event is planned for Friday, October 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Jim Lambert Pioneer Village. Activities include a costume contest, pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, campfire s’mores, games & crafts, food vendors, and a petting zoo. The event concludes with a viewing of “Hotel Transylvania” on a 40-foot big screen. Contact the Parks Office for more information at (270) 685-6142.

OCTOB E R 26 @ R I V E RPA RK C E N T E R

The 59th season opens with an epic symphonic spectacular! The audience will be spellbound with an enchanting lineup that includes Mussorgsky’s eerie Night on Bald Mountain, Paul Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, and the mysterious shrieking strings in Herrmann’s Psycho Suite, as well as the majestic themes in Brahms’ Symphony No. 1. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of musical magic that will leave you wanting more!

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

15

Culture M U S I C and grinding to get where we were

do. I think one of the genius things

Not the other way around. Easier

then. So it would have felt like a loss

Mark and Chris did was choosing

said than done sometimes. But you

to think “well that was good, but this

someone who didn’t sound like Matt

know when you’re up on stage and

is done.” For Mark and I, we just had

at all. So for me, it wasn’t like trying

you’ve lost sight of that. You can tell.

to keep going.

to fit Matt’s style. The way I sing is

We have to help each other. We have

But looking back now, though,

different. My voice is different. My

good people with us and that makes

that first year with Dustin, all the

cadence is different. And they’ve

a huge difference when it gets tough.

effort it took in that first year was

always told me to sing how I sing,

like starting over. We had to make

not like it sounded then.

O L - Is there one song the crowd always

new connections. Get people to

responds to? Or is it different each night

believe in us again with the new guy.

OL - How do you as men of faith keep

Write good music. Figure out a way

yourself

to pay for it. We have to support our

you’re on the road?

spiritually

healthy

while

families. What a daunting process.

But I didn’t feel overwhelmed. I felt

D UST IN - For me, I feel the weight of

like we were on a mission. It was very

wanting to give my best. That forces

clear to me that we were supposed to

me before every show to lock in to

do it. It just wasn’t clear how. I give

what I’ve been called to do. I’m not

all the credit to God. The way Dustin

one to say I’ve got to read this much

came into the band. The way He saw

scripture or spend this amount of

us through.

time in prayer every day. I approach

Now there’s so much joy in what

it more like staying present with God

we do. Even when it is a grind, it is

all the time. There’s an awareness

joyful. We knew the first time we sat

that God is with me, so I try to look

down to write with Dustin there was

at every moment as prayer. I try to

compatibility. We knew there was

be intentional about living like Jesus

chemistry, so we knew there was

every day in my interactions with

enough hope to give it a shot.

people, rather than a set devotion.

Am I living like Jesus? Am I aware of

DUSTIN - Those first two and a

Him? I try to keep that in mind even

half

when I’m exhausted.

years

were

brutal.

When

“Confidence” came out, that was the turning point.

CHRIS - For me, it’s a reminder that we’re here to serve. Because when

as far as the crowd’s reaction?

D U STIN - “Confidence” and “Our God is Still the Same” are the two radio songs that usually get a crowd reaction. But we’ve been surprised lately about songs that have done well on streaming that didn’t get played on the radio. That’s been interesting.

There are times when certain songs will do better in certain radio markets, and we can tell. One time we played in Canada, and they played a song in their market that wasn’t even in our set because it hadn’t done well here. So the promoter told us we should do it because it was our biggest song in Canada, and we had no idea.

O L - Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

OL - Dustin, what’s your personal

we’re on the road, we get served so

favorite “Matt” (early Sanctus Real)

much. So I try to remember that we’re

song to sing?

here to serve people. And this is how

stands, our new single “Feels to

we do that. We have the opportunity

be Free” will be out, which is a

DUSTIN - “Forgiven.” It’s fun. We’ve

to share something that maybe

collaboration with hip hop artist

always kept that in our show. We’ll

somebody has never heard before.

Steven Malcolm. Also, we’re now

play that tonight. We’ll do about 20%

So I try to remind myself that dying

supporting ourselves independently

of the older songs. When I started it

to self is really important. This isn’t

(without a record label) with the

was about 80/20 old to new. Now

about me. I try to find those quiet

help of a strong management team

it’s about 80/20 new to old. People

moments to steal away and give it

and some really good distribution

make the comparison between old

to God and remind myself that we’re

partners. We have our own publishing

and new Sanctus more than we ever

here for God. We’re here to serve.

now, which is really exciting for us. OL

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C H RIS - By the time this issue hits

Features

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

17

Features

The Hampton Twins GIFTED OWENSBORO ATHLETES STAND OUT BOTH ON AND OFF THE FIELD Written by M A R LY S M A S O N

18 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

C

ommunication between twins is real, and it is evident in local sports standouts Eli and Evan Hampton. The two began playing T-ball together at a young age, and while Evan also played soccer, Eli went out for football. That changed in fifth grade, when Eli said he knew he needed his brother on the field with him, and told Evan he needed to play football.

“There’s a level of trust,” Eli said.

“This is my guy, my blood, the one who has my back.”

Eli said sometimes it is just a look between them to know they are thinking the same thing in a game or when they are in a group at practice, and he knows what to say or not say in those moments.

“It’s real,” Evan said. “It’s unspoken.”

Both continue to excel in baseball with Evan playing centerfield and shortstop and Eli playing catcher for Owensboro High School, and both are

on an elite summer travel team out of Indianapolis, where they played 21 days of July this summer in Atlanta, Wisconsin and Kansas City.

The bond between the boys is apparent in conversation, and while Evan says that they hold each other accountable, Eli said he is competitive with Evan.

“I want to beat him in everything I do; it’s a big thing,” Eli said. “Building that builds mental toughness.”

Evan said the competition helps them grow their relationship and goes outside of sports, and it is a bond he doesn’t have with anyone else.

Both focus on the memories being created and the stories they will be able to tell in the future.

“While we have these shared moments from Pop Warner to middle school, it’s now about repping what is across our chest,” Eli said. “Being able to share the field means more.”

While excelling at baseball, both say that being on the football field

brings more emotional hype because of the crowds in the stands on a Friday night. The Hampton brothers are currently in their junior seasons at OHS, where Eli plays middle linebacker, and Evan suits up at running back.

Evan said that Eli is the extrovert of the two. Born 12 minutes before Evan, he is the vocal leader while Evan says he prefers to lead by example.

“It would sound corny if I tried to change and be vocal,” Evan said.

Both enjoy the moment they are in and live by the idea of being “where your feet are.”

Evan said that while others can’t wait to get to college, he continues to take it day by day. Eli added to that saying that each day, they practice being better and stacking those days so that they will be ready when the time comes.

“There’s a lot more to us than what is seen on the fields,” Evan said.

Both are active in their church and

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

19

Features

ELI

HAMPTON

20 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

rely on their faith and their family at every turn. Evan said his mom has told him not to put all of his marbles in one basket and he has taken that to heart.

“I would love to play in the NFL or the MLB, but that isn’t my only goal,” he said. “I have other areas where I focus – school, the community and good communicator. I look at what I can do and that’s it. I want to be the best version of Evan Hampton as I can be. I want to help people and be happy.”

Eli also said his mom has impacted him by making sure he has a plan B. He hopes to be a Major League Baseball catcher, but he likes numbers and the market, so he thinks of being a financial advisor, too.

“I want people to see Christ in me; I put God in what I do and when I do, that’s when my life is on the right track,” he said.

Sometimes Eli is plagued by anxiety and work, but his faith simmers that down, he said.

“I trust in God; it’s a security to know God’s got me,” Eli said. “I just need to be the best version of myself and go day by day.”

Family is a stronghold for the boys, and both feel provided for and loved unconditionally.

“From having the right cleats and cleat tape…what I need to be safe…to the wisdom and guidance – that goes a lot farther than sports,” Evan said.

Eli is forever grateful for the support from their family, as well, and said the wisdom and encouragement they receive is awesome.

“This goes beyond sports,” Eli said. “I have two great parents and a large family in this community who love me.”

Evan said the fact their parents still give them household chores and responsibilities is training them to be great men. Community service is important to the boys, as well.

“I don’t want my identity being only a football or baseball player,” Evan said. “I want to leave Owensboro with people thinking I am a great guy.”

Eli said that Tim Tebow is an example of an athlete known for more than his work on the field.

“His identity now is how he leads through Christ,” Eli said. “I want people to see a great guy and a great human… to see the bigger picture.”

Both are sure of their footing with their family and faith and have found their footing on the football and baseball fields. For them, the most important part of this journey is how they leave others feeling.

“They may hate how we play, and they may tear us down,” Eli said. “But at the end of the day, we hope they say we are good people. That’s all we want.” OL

EVAN

HAMPTON

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

21

Features

DUGAN BEST RECREATION CENTER

Celebrates 50 Years Written by K R I S T I M C C A B E

W

hen

a

city

transformed

dump

“We pulled all our resources

acre park and recreational center,

together for a great celebration,”

the

Owensboro

said Gray. “We hosted vendors and

Mayor Best died in office in 1967,

gained a safe haven for its youth,

gave out hot dogs and hamburgers

and Michael Gray lamented the

and a committed investment for

to the community.

fact that the mayor didn’t live long

future

Best

prizes included bicycles, basketball

recently

goals and basketballs. It was a fun

of

generations.

Recreational

an

Recreation Center was built to serve

music, food, and raffle prizes.

11-

community

into

was

Dugan

Center

celebrated 50 years of transforming

Some of our

Former

indoor recreational facility.

enough to see his vision realized.

“I am here to see his dream lived,” said Gray. “Because of the

and successful event.”

lives and providing hope.

West end residents and provide an

Owensboro

Mayor

vision of Dugan Best, a junk yard

Michael Gray, Recreation Center

Dugan Best had a vision for a piece

was turned into a safe place for kids

Director, said the Center’s recent

of land that was being used as a city

to grow and now it’s been going

50th anniversary celebration had

dump and authorized its renovation

strong for 50 years.”

a “great turnout,” and featured

in

22 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

1966.

In

1973,

Dugan

Best

“We are extended family to

the kids we serve,” Gray added.

Back to School Bash offers games,

positive that the center will continue

“They come to us after school for

inflatables, free school supplies,

to impact young lives.

tutoring,

free food, and free haircuts.

sports

encouragement.

programs,

and

We try to give

them a solid foundation.”

With a gym, stage, kitchen, game room, teen room, fitness room, and

The center hosts various events

computer stations, the recreation

throughout the school year, offering

center has a lot to offer. For many

a positive gathering place for young

“graduates” of Dugan Best, the rec

people.

center was the safest place they

“We kick off each school year with the Dugan Best yard sale,” said

knew growing up, and its impact has been life-changing.

Gray. “We host a Trunk or Treat

The center’s Breaking the Cycle

in October, a canned food drive in

campaign empowers youth ages 9

November, and a Candy Cane hunt

to 17 to break the cycle of poverty,

in December.”

gun violence, and the stigma of

This

past

“As far as the facility goes, we are working to revitalize equipment that has been here since the 1970s,” Gray remarked. “We are getting new equipment in the weight room and looking into having a mural done for the building’s front. We want to commemorate 50 years of memories.”

Listening to feedback from the families they serve has always been a catalyst for growth for Dugan Best.

“Families tell us what they need,

April,

the

center

mental health issues, and also

its

first-annual

provides them the firm foundations

“Dugan’s Got Talent” competition,

they need to enter the workforce

said Gray. “We want to tailor our

featuring singing, dancing, comedy,

upon graduation or pursue higher

programs to best meet the needs of

art and magic; the grand prize was

education.

our families as we look forward to

sponsored

a $4,000 scholarship. The annual

Looking to the future, Gray is

and we try to respond accordingly,”

the next 50 years.” OL

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

23

Features

THE WILFORD WAY Written By L I B B Y J O H N S O N

/ / Photos provided by Corey Wilford

Corey Wilford’s introduction to

made Owensboro his home. These

stresses to all his players and clients.

Owensboro was the one and only

days, he spends his days working

“When I was coming up, there were

Dustbowl. Wilford came to town as a

at Burns Middle School, and pretty

no trainers or year-round youth

youngster both to watch and play in

much every other waking hour doing

leagues,” he says. Despite the fact

the well-known summer basketball

something

He

that Wilford succeeded and went on to

tournament. A native of Hopkinsville,

runs leagues, trains individuals, and

play Division 1 basketball without as

who played for Christian County High

develops tournaments all year long.

much structured play as is available

basketball

related.

today, he is committed to developing

School and then SEMO (Southeast

Wilford says his philosophy on

Missouri), Wilford originally moved

basketball is “The work you put

to Owensboro to play for the Kentucky

in is the work that will show.” He

Mavericks. The Mavericks, a semi-

says

don’t

Wilford’s first offering will be a “Back

pro basketball team, were based in

understand just how much time one

to School” youth league begins on

Owensboro for three years. When the

has to consistently work at basketball

September 8th. Though he operates

team dissolved, Wilford stayed and

to truly be good. This is a concept he

at Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls Club

24 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

many

young

players

the players in this area.

For the upcoming school year,

at Buckland Square, his leagues are separate from the Boys and Girls Club league. The league is for boys and girls 1st grade-10th grade. Games are on Sunday afternoons, which makes it possible for football players to participate, Wilford says on his Facebook page. The cost for the league is $105. (Registration will be closed by the time this hits the stands, but the league is in its third year and Wilford foresees it continuing for the same time next year.)

In November, he will offer a Development League, which he says is for anyone, but is particularly a great opportunity for those who fail to make their school team and want

number and is quick to respond.

Owensboro and getting involved in

to improve. He also offers private and

One of his newer projects is a 3 v

small group instruction and coaches

3 tournament for men, which will

beyond

travel ball teams for the middle

be held on Labor Day weekend at

August he took part in Dancing with

school and high school levels. Wilford

the Owensboro Convention Center.

the Stars to benefit the Boulware

runs his business on a regularly

The cost is $500 per team, and the

Center. Look for him to continue to

updated, public Facebook page under

winning team gets $5000.

be a force in Owensboro, on the court

his name. He also provides his private

Wilford is making an impact on

the community in ways that reach the

basketball

court.

In

and off, for the foreseeable future. OL

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

25

Features

FAMILY BUSINESS

CARRYING ON TRADITION AND SERVING THE COMMUNITY Written by L I B B Y J O H N S O N

/ / Photos by J A M I E P L A I N

What do farms, funerals, and Fords have in common? No, this is not a terrible joke or a trick question. In this case, what unites a trio of businesses is that in each category, Owensboro has a multi-generational family of professionals serving the community.

26 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

GILLES FARMS The

Gilles

family

has

been

working the land of Daviess County since

1898.

Currently,

the

4th

and 5th generations practice row crop farming and produce corn, soybeans, wrapper tobacco, and hay.

Additionally they maintain a herd of Seedstock Angus Beef Cattle and sell direct to consumer beef.

Jim Gilles, who also independently owns the satellite business of Hillview Farms, represents the 5th generation of the Gilles farming operation. He can easily describe the changes that have occurred from one generation to the next. Overall, he says, farming has moved, “From horse drawn implements and hand harvesting to now having equipment that drives itself and much more advanced research

backed

practices.”

He

elaborates that for the Gilles family,

can learn as much as the younger

recent big changes can be pinpointed.

He says the best aspects of

Between the 3rd and 4th generation

working with family are that you

(represented by his father, Jimmy)

get to see and work with your family

use of new seed technology made

every day. Tongue in cheek, he adds

for a much cleaner crop with added

that is also the worst part. “You get

yields and ease of harvest. His own

to build stronger ties with multiple

Duke Brubaker, his brother Tyler,

generation, Jim says, “has helped

generations of the family because

and their father, Bruce Brubaker

usher in a lot more technology in

you are working with them daily,” he

Jr., are the owners and operators of

terms of GPS and equipment that

says. “Everyone has a vested interest

Champion Ford Mazda on Southtown

helps improve the efficiency of the

in the business and its success.”

Boulevard.

farm and the producer as well as

Though

are

generations have done more than just

save on input costs associated with

shared, agriculture can be especially

“sell cars.” The dealership, which

planting and harvesting row crops.”

taxing because the hours can be long

began downtown, offers new vehicle

Gilles’ technical knowledge and

and often aren’t set, and work often

sales,

bleeds over into personal time, he

Lane Tire and light maintenance

explains.

center, a service department, parts

(noticeable

to

the

moonlighting

teacher writing this article) ability to communicate agronomical concepts

struggles

and

joys

His advice to others in a family is

that

patience

and

generation and vice versa.”

CHAMPION FORD LINCOLN MAZDA

used

Since

1990,

vehicle

the

sales,

two

Quick

department, collision department, and detail department.

to a near novice (near, because I

business

am from Hopkinsville, after all) are

communication are key. “Use the

According to Duke, the biggest

evidence of the depth of work ethic

multiple generation aspect of your

change Champion has undergone -

and pride he has in his career and his

family connections to help guide and

other than a location change - is the

family.

make decisions. The older generation

way they are able to communicate S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

27

Features with their customers. “During our first generation, we only had direct mail, face to face, and telephone,” he says. “Now we have additional ways to communicate, such as texting, email, Facebook, Instagram, X, and website chat.”

For Brubaker and his family, the best part of working with family is that “you can trust that everyone has the best interest of the business in mind.” However, he points out, “You’re never off the clock. A family dinner or outing will almost always include some aspect of the business.”

Additionally, taking time off together has been a struggle at times in the past 33 years.

Though

he

mentioned

communication as a big change, Duke Brubaker relayed a story about a marketing tactic that seems wildly unrealistic today. “Back when we were at our downtown location, we hired an animal trainer to bring in live cougars to commemorate the launch of an all-new Mercury Cougar,” he says. “Customers and employees loved taking pictures with the big cats, which were secured on the hoods of the cars in our showroom. At night, we let them roam free in our parts department during the promotion.

The parts department retained the ‘cougar smell’ for years until we moved out to our new location.

Brubaker says that working as a family doesn’t change the fact that different members have their own opinions and ways of doing things.

“Sometimes those opinions clash and a resolution is needed,” he says.

To others starting a family business, he advises, “invest in your business early with your time and lead by

28 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

example. Never ask an employee

circumstances,

at

Owensboro Memorial Gardens;

to do something you wouldn’t do

Glenn is to listen carefully, give

mowing grass, trimming around

yourself.”

information

markers, and digging graves.” He

questions

GLENN FAMILY SERVICES Passing

Glenn

the

goal

openly,

answer

honestly,

suggest

thoughtfully, and deliver care exceptionally. Doing so enables

Funeral

the Taylors and their team to

says at that time there were no string trimmers and the cemetery had no backhoe. Markers were

Home at 900 Old Hartford Road

“provide

personal

hand trimmed and graves were

at Breckinridge, it is easy to

farewells that reflect the views

hand dug. His point? “Not many

underestimate

of

and honor the story of a lifetime.”

can say they began their career at

services that go into the business

For Glenn Taylor, who has

the bottom and worked their way

of death. Glenn Funeral Home

found himself both in the position

and Crematory is one of a family

of

being,

of companies - family owned and

the

youngest

operated - collectively presented

generation

as Glenn Family Services. The

aspects of working with family

impetus

Family

are trust, mutual understanding

“It’s about these things in the

Services began in 1903 with the

of the “Why” of the business,

following order: Caring for your

great grandfather of the current

and confidence. He says it is good

team, caring for your customers

proprietor and figurehead, Glenn

to know that there are family

- they are not just a transaction,

Taylor.

members, who in the absence of

for

the

volume

Glenn

uniquely

at

different

times,

and

oldest

working,

the the

best

down.”

Always

introspective

and

eloquent,

Taylor’s

advice

to

others

family

business

is

in

they are people, just as you are.”

“Because so very much has

one, can carry on. “While there is

changed through five generations

consensus on the ‘Why’,” he says,

and over 120 years,” Glenn Taylor

“there can be differences between

says, “It might be best to start

the approaches to the ‘How’.” He

with what has not changed, and

says there are occasional conflicts

business. “I have seen wonderful,

that’s why we do what we do.”

of generational knowledge.

multigenerational

He says there should be no shame if and when family members have interests other than the family family

Taylor, who operates the business

Taylor learned firsthand that

businesses fail or be sold because

on a day-to-day basis with his

responsibility must be earned.

a family member joined it out of

wife, Camilla, son Glenn Peyton

He recalls that when he first

Taylor, Jr. and daughter in law,

expressed interest in working

Rachel Skipworth Taylor, explains

for his father, he appeared the

that “from the first generation

first morning in a pressed suit,

to the fifth” they know what

with a starched shirt, perfectly

the

to do when a death occurs. He

knotted tie, and gleaming shoes.

community.”

elaborates, “Grief is accompanied

“Dad asked what I had planned

Addressing the misconception

by worry. What needs to be done,

for the day. My response was

that family businesses are easy

who’s going to do it, what don’t I

that I was there to work. By his

know about, what should I know

tone, it was clear there was a

because

they

are

about, who has the answers?”

misunderstanding. He told me to

Taylor

says,

“It’s

Glenn prides themselves on serving

“a

remarkably

go home and come back in jeans,

a sense of obligation instead of truly wanting to. It’s unfortunate for the family, the individual, business,

and

often

the

established, not.

It’s

rewarding and encouraging and gratifying, but it’s not easy. I’ve

broad

a t-shirt, and boots. I understood.

cross-section of our community.”

I was going to do yard work. Well,

not been as good at it as I might

Regardless of customs, traditions,

I was close. I was going to spend

have been, but hope I’ve learned

beliefs,

the day, and the summer, at

and am learning to be better.” OL

personal

feelings,

or

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

29

Profiles of Family Businesses

BRITTANY WETHINGTON, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC 270-240-2344 WETHINGTONFAMILYPRACTICE.COM

I would like to introduce myself and my husband, Nathan Wethington as the business owners of Wethington Family Practice. I am the nurse practitioner that started the practice in July of 2022. When I opened this office, my mission for the practice was that I was to be the hands and feet of Jesus and to help those in need with their health. I would always ask for the Lord to guide me. Before opening a brick-and-mortar office, I began seeing patients through telemedicine during the COVID pandemic in 2020.

Nathan kept trying to encourage me to open a practice on my own. Needless to say, this was going to be a huge step for me. Running a business is not an easy task. After a couple of months of praying and seeking guidance from the Lord, I decided to take a drive around town and immediately found our current office space, and everything fell into place.

As time went by, I was seeing patients, answering the phones, sending my own orders in, and rooming my own patients. A lot of this is not seen in most practices. At the time, I was unable to afford to pay employees, so I had to work by myself, for myself. Eventually, I started to get busier. This is when we took another leap of faith, and I called my husband at work one day. He was working a factory job, and I said you’ve got to quit your job and you’ve got to come help me with this practice. This was a big step for us. He was going to be leaving his job, his income, and we just had to put our faith in the Lord that He was going to take care of us.

At this time, my husband and I were running the practice and it continued to flourish and grow. Eventually, we were able to bring on staff. I could not believe how fast the practice was growing. All of the glory goes to God. Every part of this practice and every decision that’s made is always prayed about and decisions are always made with guidance following Jesus Christ. Later, God provided a way for our office to expand, and it is still continuing to grow.

We’ve been able to add Skylar, another nurse practitioner to the practice.

For the past few weeks, I have been pondering on a way to share my testimony throughout the city of Owensboro, about how God has guided me every step of the way through the growth of this medical practice. And then I was offered to be able to write this article and share it in Owensboro Living magazine. How awesome is that! He always provides a way. Always trust in the Lord and always trust in His timing.

If you need medical care, Wethington Family Practice is accepting new patients and we see newborn all the way to geriatric age. We provide physical exams, CDL’s, women’s healthcare, Botox, laser skin treatment, well-child visits, sick visits, weight loss programs, and are currently accepting walk-in visits. Come see me or Skylar. We would love to have you as our patient. We love to love on people like family!

30 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

SPONSORED CONTENT

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

31

Profiles of Family Businesses

Family is everything to me! The inspiration for Willow and Pine Market came from years of happy times, gathered around the table with friends and family. From its beginning, the store has been an adventure with those same people!

My daughter, Isabel, joined me this year as store manager. It has been such a joy watching her interact with customers and grow into this role.

Spending our days together and helping our customers select something beautiful for their homes or find the perfect gift for someone they love is what gives meaning and purpose to this family endeavor.

We love Owensboro! We love downtown! We are so thankful for the tremendous support that this community has given to our family-owned business!

126 WEST 2ND ST. // WILLOWANDPINEMARKET.COM

The Word of God says: “there is an appointed time for everything and there is a time for every event under heaven.” In October 2023, the Goodwin family became owners of Owensboro’s iconic 54 Pizza. It is truly a unified and diverse family endeavor. Donna Goodwin is CEO, Eddie Goodwin is COO, Eddie’s mom, Faith McKay, is Capital Investor, son Jonathan Goodwin is West Manager, Jonathan’s wife Annika is Marketing & Customer Loyalty, Annika’s brother, Brent Narhi, is East Manager, son Andrew Goodwin is Logistics Manager and daughter Claire Goodwin is a West Team Leader. Additional support comes from Faith and the Narhi family through supplying baked goods. Though unified by blood, marriage and business, the true beauty of this team (and the extended operations teams) comes from the diversity of gifts and talents they bring together to serve the Owensboro community.

3101 ALVEY PARK DR // (270) 683-5454 1700 STARLITE DR // (270) 683-5400 // 54PIZZAEXPRESS.COM

32 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

SPONSORED CONTENT

(888) 709-9329 // 115 E 2ND ST RHOADSANDRHOADS.COM After law school, attorney Chris Rhoads took a job at a large firm in Lexington and had the opportunity to be mentored by some great attorneys. However, when he made the move to Rhoads & Rhoads with his father and uncle, as well as his brother, he really learned so much more about the practice of law and the difference you can make in people’s lives in your own community.

Their practice originated in the early 1970’s, representing injured workers and coal miners. To this day, representing injured and disabled people in our community remains their mission.

“It is really meaningful when I meet with a client or someone in their family who shares a story with me about how my grandfather, my father or my uncle represented them and helped them in a case that made a difference in their life,” said Chris.

Today, Chris and the lawyers at Rhoads & Rhoads strive to uphold these same standards and build on that. For the attorneys at Rhoads & Rhoads, being the voice for so many people in their own community that otherwise wouldn’t have an opportunity to be heard or seek justice is a true honor and is humbling. “I thank our community here in Owensboro for that.

Our hope is for our community to see us far beyond our work as personal injury attorneys.”

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

33

Profiles of Family Businesses

34 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

SPONSORED CONTENT

WESLEYAN PARK PLAZA // 2730 FREDERICA ST. 42301 (270) 686-0001 // WWW.LANCECOJEWELERS.COM In the heart of Owensboro lies a

is not just their stunning collection of

As a pillar of our community, Lance &

hidden gem, Lance & Co. Jewelers, a

jewelry pieces, but the personal touch they

Co. Jewelers is not just a place of business,

family-owned and operated business

bring to every interaction. They are not

but a place of warmth and familiarity.

just selling jewelry; they are cultivating

Lance and Mandy’s passion for their

lasting relationships with each customer

craft is evident in every piece they create,

that walks through their door. Whether

and their excitement for the future is

it’s helping someone find the perfect

infectious. We are lucky to have such a

engagement ring or repairing a cherished

dedicated and talented duo serving our

duo has brought a touch of elegance and

family heirloom, Lance & Co. Jewelers

city, and we look forward to seeing Lance

warmth to our lives.

approaches each task with care and

& Co. Jewelers shine for many years to

dedication.

come.

that has been serving our community for over 15 years. With Lance, a master jeweler with over 45 years of experience, and his daughter and co-owner, Mandy, a seasoned professional with 25 years of expertise, at the helm, this dynamic

What sets Lance & Co. Jewelers apart

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

35

Profiles of Family Businesses

Greenwell Chisholm, a fourth-generation familyowned printing company, led by Brian and Lauren Greenwell, has proudly served Owensboro for over 100 years. Specializing in high-quality printing solutions, Greenwell Chisholm thrives on decades of industry experience and a deep-seated commitment to customer satisfaction, qualities passed down through generations. Beyond its rich heritage, the company surprises many with its extensive capabilities, ranging from custom printed wall graphics to innovative direct mail campaigns and essential labeling for manufacturers. They also excel in modern applications like vehicle wraps, online stores, and eye-catching signage. Greenwell Chisholm blends traditional values with innovation, ensuring they remain a trusted partner for customers seeking quality and creativity in every project. If you’re looking for a partner who can bring both experience and fresh ideas to the table, Greenwell Chisholm has got you covered.

420 EAST PARRISH AVENUE // (270) 684-3267 // GC1919.COM

Old Hickory BBQ in Owensboro, KY, is a beloved family business with a rich history spanning six generations. It all started in 1918 when Charles “Pappy” Foreman converted his blacksmith shop at the corner of 25th Street and Frederica Street into a barbecue haven. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, the establishment thrived, and today, it remains a cornerstone of local cuisine.

John Foreman, the current owner, attributes Old Hickory BBQ’s success to two essential elements: the pit and the dip. Their meat is slow-smoked on-site, filling the air with irresistible aromas. However, the real star is their legendary sauce—a tangy, smoky blend that clings to the meat and caramelizes beautifully. Though the sauce is bottled for customers to enjoy at home, nothing compares to the authentic barbecue experience served fresh at the restaurant. Old Hickory BBQ continues to be a family tradition and a staple of exceptional barbecue.

338 WASHINGTON AVE // (270) 926-9000 // OLDHICKORYBAR-B-Q.COM

36 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

SPONSORED CONTENT

Retirement & Financial Strategies, located at 3402 Frederica Street, was founded by Jerry Goetz, CFP®, CFS®, CRPC® in 2018. Jerry, who has 25 years of experience as a financial advisor, wanted to create a local family business that provides top level service and advice to clients for multiple generations.

Jerry’s daughter, Emma Goetz, CFP®, joined the company in 2022 and Jerry’s son, Evan Goetz, joined earlier this year. Emma and Evan are both financial advisors with the company and work together with Jerry as a family advisory team to all the company’s clients. “This team concept allows us to offer a professional level of service with advice from multiple perspectives, as well as various education and experience levels.” Prior to joining the firm, Emma and Evan both graduated summa cum laude from Western Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance with a

Personal Financial Planning concentration.

Including the customer service support staff, the company now has 6 employees, all within the greater Owensboro area. “We are all from this community and like to give back by being a part of local organizations and supporting our local charities.”

Retirement & Financial Strategies offers investment advice, investment management, retirement planning and all-encompassing financial planning for our clients. We begin by sitting down with clients to discuss their situation, values and goals. We offer advice and investment management on a fee basis, as a fiduciary, instead of commission basis, and always put our client’s interest ahead of our own.

“If we can help our clients manage their finances and investments in a way that allows them the time, resources and energy to focus on living a happier more fulfilling life, we have done our job.”

(270) 215-2600 // 3402 FREDERICA STREET // RETIREMENTANDFINANCIAL.COM

Investment advice offered through Private Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor. Private Advisor Group and Retirement and Financial Strategies are separate entities.

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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38 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

SENIOR LIVING: SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONLINESS p. 50

HEALTH: FOOD+ART+HEALTH EVENT AT FARMERS MARKET p. 52

HOME: THE ADVANTAGES OF BUILDING A NEW HOME p. 55

→

LIFESTYLE

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

39

Lifestyle H O M E

Decorating Your Home for Fall on a Budget

W

hether you’re working on a shoestring budget, or simply trying to save a dime, with a bit of ingenuity and time, you’ll be well on your way to fall home decor that even Martha Stewart deems worthy.

Try these inexpensive decor ideas to jazz up your home for fall:

PINECONE WREATH Greeting your guests at the door with a pinecone wreath ensures a warm and stylish welcome. Rather than paying the standard

40 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

price of $50 to $100 for a pinecone wreath, make one yourself for under $10!

Take an afternoon to collect pinecones with your children or grandchildren.

Two small shopping bags of pinecones should be enough for a large wreath. Next, purchase a Styrofoam wreath for approximately $1, a glue gun for around $2, and a piece of ribbon for $1.

Use a glue gun to adhere the flatter side of the pinecones to the wreath. The pinecones should be pointing upwards, rather than laying flat. Continue gluing pinecones until the Styrofoam of the wreath is no longer visible. Then, loosely wrap a long ribbon around the top of the wreath and tie.

You can display your pinecone wreath by hanging the ribbon on your doorknocker or simply using a wreath hanger that can be purchased at most big box stores for $5.

PRESSED LEAF SHOWCASE

With the help of Mother Nature and some everyday items you already have around the house, you can make photo frames that display your beautiful pressed leaves. This fall staple is the epitome of autumn decor and packs a big punch for a small buck!

Place a piece of wax paper in the middle of a heavy book, such as an encyclopedia, and lay several leaves on the wax paper without overlapping leaves. Place another sheet of

wax paper over the leaves, and then close the book. Let stand for approximately 12 hours.

Use a piece of scrapbook paper with colors that are reminiscent of fall and fit it to your photo frame. Place a dot of hot glue on the center of the paper and press your leaf onto the glue. Then, carefully slide your pressed leaf and scrapbook paper combo into your photo frame and display!

SIMPLE SWITCH

Changing your smallest accessories can provide both the biggest bang for your buck and visual stimulation. Swap out your regular throw pillows, curtains, throws, and vases in favor of ones that are laden with fall friendly hues.

Orange, red, brown, bronze, and even green are generally colors associated with fall.

There’s no need to replace

your existing decor; just adapt what you already have! Attach a fun orange or brown pompom trimming to your curtains with Velcro. Rather than ditching your existing throw pillow, simply sew a flirty and autumn-friendly cover for the fall.

Whether you’re working with a $100 budget or a $10 budget, you can effectively decorate your home for the fall. When on a tight budget, your most important ally will be your imagination.

Remember, where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Take inspiration from magazines, decorating shows or even snap photos of pieces you see in department stores and try to recreate them at home. If you’re open to trying something new and taking the time to take on some DIY projects, the sky truly is the limit to what you can do! OL

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

41

Lifestyle H O M E

Pumpkin Patch Picks LOCAL SPOTS TO BUY YOUR PUMPKINS THIS FALL Written by S T E V E N W I L S O N

It’s pumpkin season! They come in all shapes, colors, and sizes, and can be used for adorning your home or business for fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and any special event in between. Pumpkins add stylish and fun touches to fall decorating. Whether you’re painting them or putting them on your porch, everyone loves getting creative with these orange gourds for fall. And here’s where you can find them locally.

CECIL FARMS PRODUCE

HAYDEN FARMS’ FALL MARKET

u-pick, pumpkin patch. With over 15

8753 MULLIGAN RD, OWENSBORO

8778 SHORT STATION ROAD, PHILPOT

varieties of the iconic squash planted in

From their farm, to the Farmers’ Market

At Hayden Farms, their annual Fall

the field, you will find everything you

and home delivery, Cecil Farms has your

Market includes pumpkins, mums,

need for your favorite fall festivities.

produce, and pumpkin, needs covered.

apple cider and more.

THE COTTAGE FARM STAND & BAKING CO.

TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET & EXPERIENCE

6869 HIGHWAY 56, OWENSBORO

9255 HIGHWAY 431, UTICA

Co. to pick up some pumpkins, and grab

TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET & GOURMET DELI

a homemade pastry and coffee while

4399 SPRINGHILL DR SUITE A, OWENSBORO

Visit The Cottage Farm Stand & Baking

BITTEL HERITAGE MEATS 3000 BITTEL ROAD, OWENSBORO In addition to raising hogs and cattle, Bittel offers locally grown pumpkins.

You can find their gourds near the roundabout on Highway 81 and 56.

Travel to the south end of town for a

EDGE’S FARM PRODUCE

full farm experience. In addition to

WHITESVILLE

WELBORN FLORAL

pumpkins for your fall decorating needs,

This family farm in Whitesville grows a large variety of pumpkins, gourds, and

920 EAST FOURTH STREET, OWENSBORO

Trunnell’s has a variety of activities for the whole family.

mums. In addition to their fall décor,

you’re there.

Welborn Floral is known for their flower bouquets for weddings and special events. For the fall, you can even add pumpkins to your floral arrangement.

IVY TRELLIS

they grow tomatoes, melons, squash,

REID’S ORCHARD 4818 HIGHWAY 144, OWENSBORO Long known for their apple orchards,

STEPHEN FARMS & GARDEN

Reid’s remains a local destination for

3901 HAYDEN BRIDGE RD, OWENSBORO

pumpkins, mums and fall family fun.

1716 MOSELEY ST, OWENSBORO Visit Ivy Trellis, a trusted local florist, to spice up your fall décor with a colorful variety of pumpkins.

42 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

cucumbers and peppers.

SASQUASH PUMPKIN FARM

Stephen Farms & Garden is a family owned and operated farm located in Sorgho. There you can find plenty of

2927 STATE ROUTE 142, PHILPOT

pumpkins for fall, and flowers, mulch

Sasquash Pumpkin Farm is a micro

and ferns for the spring and summer. OL

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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44 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

SPONSORED CONTENT

T R U N N E L L’ S FA R M E X P E R I E N C E

The Place to Be this Fall! looks like many other farms across the tri-state this time of year, but there is something magical about this farm and the experience they give their guests.

The minute you step out of

your vehicle, you are greeted by a sea of bright orange pumpkins, golden corn shocks, colorful gourds, bales of straw and stunning mums. As you approach the farm market, the delicious smell of

W

UPCOMING EVENTS AT T R U N N E L L’ S FA L L FARM EXPERIENCE

Fall Farm Experience Kickoff SEPTEMBER 28

fresh baked pumpkin bread, fried apple hen the weather cools and the

pies, and apple cider donuts tickle your

air turns crisp, there’s no better

nose, and your mouth starts to water for

place to feel the magic of fall than on

a glass of their cold, crisp apple cider.

21+ EVENT

the farm.

The harvest season brings

While strolling among the thousands

6PM - 10PM

colorful foliage, crisp apples, mild

of pumpkins displayed, your ears ring

weather and pumpkins galore.

with laughter from families making

SEPTEMBER 28

The

memories exploring the 35+ attractions

Farm is the place to be this fall.

Trunnell’s the

premier

Farm

Exprience,

agri-tainment

venue

in Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana, is the place to score the perfect pumpkin and farm family fun this season! You’ll fall in love with fall over and over again at Trunnell’s. You can enjoy the warmth of the bonfires, eat caramel apples, search for the perfect pumpkin, get lost in the giant corn maze, grab a cocktail slushie or sip on your favorite fall drink. Every autumn, thousands of visitors flock to this family farm to make lasting memories.

Kids that come to Trunnell’s long treasure the memories of taking an old-fashioned tractor-drawn wagon ride to the pumpkin patch and picking

at Trunnell’s Farm Experience!

From

atop the hill, you can see hundreds of families walking the paths of the giant corn maze adventure and the beautiful

sunflower

fields!

Kevin

Trunnell exclaims, “Guests of all ages

Wine Your Way Out

OCTOBER 4

Pumpkin Glow Fest ALL AGES 6PM - 10PM

OCTOBER 11 & 12

love to visit our farm and make magical memories! We are excited to share with all our guests the new additions we have for the 2024 fall season September 28 - November 3! SEE YA’LL AT THE FARM! OL

The Great Gourd Hunt 18+ EVENT 6PM - 10PM

OCTOBER 19

Spooktacular Glow Nights

their own pumpkin right off the vine.

ALL AGES

Sometimes that means tall and skinny,

6PM - 10PM

sometimes short and round, sometimes

OCTOBER 18, 20,

even green and misshapen!

Trunnell’s

Farm

Experience

&

Market located in Utica, KY off Hwy.

25, 26 & 27 NOVEMBER 1 & 2

431 (Frederica Street), at first glance

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

45

Lifestyle S E N I O R L I V I N G

What Every Baby Boomer Ought to Know about Fitness Centers Written by B E C K Y B A R N H A R T , Executive Director, Senior Community Center

V

isiting a fitness center can be intimidating. You find yourself surrounded by people years younger than you and wonder about which exercise equipment you can use safely.

However, as the baby boom population ages, more facilities are catering to an older crowd. If you’re ready to sign up for a gym membership, try these tips for managing the physical and social challenges.

46 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

MANAGING THE PHYSICAL CHALLENGES Consult your doctor. Speak with your physician before starting an exercise

program,

especially

if

you’re overweight or have been sedentary

for

some

time.

Your

doctor can advise you about any medical conditions you need to keep in mind, such as high blood pressure. If you need more guidance, ask for recommendations for an

exercise physiologist or nutritionist.

Check out weight machines. Even frail seniors may be able to strength train with air-powered machines where you just hit a button if the load feels too heavy. Resistance bands are another option. On the other hand, if your balance is strong, you may be able to continue using free weights.

Focus on low-impact aerobics.

Protect your joints and adjust for a decreased maximum heart rate.

Try swimming and dance classes

that keep your feet on the floor. If you’re concerned about falling off the treadmill, look for recumbent machines that offer more stability.

Stretch gently. End each session with gentle movements that build up your flexibility. Extending your range of motion can also help you to live independently longer.

Remain seated if you like.

Many exercises can be performed without standing up. Browse online for yoga moves you can do sitting on a gym bench.

Pace yourself. Walking is a great way to start moving, and your first exercise sessions may last only a few minutes. Increase the intensity of your workouts slowly to avoid injury.

MANAGING THE SOCIAL CHALLENGES Sign up for group classes.

Maybe your gym schedules custom-designed classes for

members over 50. Whatever you find on the program, classes are a convenient way to meet your fellow gym members.

Choose a spot. If you feel conspicuous standing up front, position yourself at the back of the room or off to the side. You can often see the instructor better from a distance.

Talk with the instructors. Qualified trainers will be happy to suggest modifications and substitutions to deal with any medical conditions or injuries you may have. Many seniors are concerned about falls. Ask your instructor to show you exercises that can help you to balance.

Find an exercise partner.

Look around for gym members your own age. Workout buddies can watch out for each other and provide motivation.

Invite your friends.

Your membership probably includes guest passes and discounts. See

if anyone you know would like to join you. You’ll look forward to

workouts

share

them

more with

when

your

you

friends.

Adjust your schedule. Noisy gyms can be irritating for some seniors.

Ask the staff about what hours of the day tend to be less busy. You may want to designate the early morning hours as your regular time.

Arrange

your

soundtrack.

Speaking of noise, you may prefer Chopin to the newer dance songs booming over the loudspeakers.

If you’re unable to locate a gym that plays quieter tunes, you may want to wear earplugs or listen to audio books with your ear buds.

By the age of 40, most adults lose 1% or more of their muscle mass each year. Slow down aging with regular exercise. Training at the gym can help you make new friends while you strengthen your body and mind. OL

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

47

Lifestyle H E A L T H

SPONSORED CONTENT

OWE N SB O R O HE ALTH M OB I LE CLI NI C:

A Lifesaver on Wheels

emphasized the importance of this project: “We are looking forward to seeing the clinic reach into corners of our region where traditional healthcare services might be out of reach. This initiative is about making healthcare accessible to all, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.”

The clinic itself is a 200-square-foot, self-sufficient unit equipped with two patient screening rooms, a registration area and a staff space. Designed by Brewco Marketing Group in Central City, the trailer features a negative air pressure system to ensure clean air quality. More than just a mobile health unit, it’s a beacon of hope and a crucial healthcare resource capable of treating, educating and engaging with the community.

WALK-IN CARE, RIGHT WHERE YOU LIVE The

Owensboro

Health

Mobile

Clinic offers a wide range of essential healthcare services, including blood

O

n

a

morning,

life, playing bingo and cards, and even

74-year-old Daniel Meloche was

directing a variety show. Reflecting on

working the front desk of the Senior

his clinic experience, he urges others,

Community

“Just try it. Don’t be scared of it. Get

Daviess

typical

Tuesday

Center

County.

of

He

Owensboro-

couldn’t

shake

checked out even if you feel good.”

Daniel’s

a feeling of unease as he welcomed

story

is

a

powerful

seniors for their daily activities. His

testament to the impact of Owensboro

heartbeat felt strange, but he brushed

Health’s new mobile clinic, which aims

it off, thinking he’d visit the Emergency

to bring life-saving healthcare services

Department after his shift. Little did he

directly to underserved communities.

know, help was just steps away.

The clinic is part of a broader initiative

That same morning, the Owensboro

to expand access to healthcare across

Health Mobile Clinic was parked right

Owensboro Health’s 18-county service

outside the center. Although Daniel had

area, especially in rural regions where

never used it before, something urged

traditional healthcare services may be

him to walk in. After a quick check-up,

out of reach.

alarming:

Daniel

was

burn treatment. Patients can also receive sports and school physicals, RSV testing and STI treatment. For those dealing with common illnesses or conditions like poison ivy, insect bites or minor burns, the clinic provides prompt, convenient care without needing an appointment.

You can find the Owensboro Health Mobile

Clinic

throughout

at

various

locations

each

month.

It

visits

Bill’s On The Hill IGA in Hawesville, Jumpin’ Jacks Food Mart in Lewisport and

the

Senior

Community

Center

of

the Owensboro Health Mobile Clinic, including a full schedule of its locations

clinic is a walk-in care facility available

and services, visit OwensboroHealth.

have made it if I didn’t go then,” Daniel

at

org/MobileClinic.

recalled. From that mobile clinic visit,

allows residents to become familiar

As the clinic continues to roll out

he went to the Emergency Department,

with the clinic and encourages them to

across the region, it promises a healthier

where he was admitted for a five-day stay

take advantage of the services offered.

future

at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital.

Dr. James Tidwell, Vice President of

communities, ensuring that no one is left

Today, he’s back to enjoying his active

Population Health at Owensboro Health,

without access to essential healthcare. OL

“I don’t know how long I would

48 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

consistent,

with

fixed

the

vision

Owensboro. For more information about

improving health equity, the mobile

was on the brink of heart failure.

Launched

minor injury care such as stitches and

Life Church and Boulware Mission in

MAKING ACCESS EASIER FOR EVERYONE

experiencing an irregular heartbeat and

strep throat testing, UTI treatment and

of Owensboro-Daviess County, New

the clinic’s medical team discovered something

pressure checks, glucose testing, flu and

locations.

This

for

Kentucky’s

underserved

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

49

Lifestyle G A R D E N

Planting in the Fall

Most people don’t think of Fall as a time for planting new landscaping and garden plants. To most, it’s time to put garden ventures to sleep until Spring. While it may not seem so, Fall planting of trees, shrubs, Perennials, bulbs, and cool weather grasses like Fescue is a great idea.

Roots of newly planted plants and trees can continue to grow and become established in temperatures as low as 40 degrees. And since the roots don’t have to supply the rest of the plant with energy to grow, more energy is focused on root production. Come springtime, because of an established root system, plants shoot out of the ground with plenty of energy for top growth.

SOIL TEMPERATURE When

planting

in

the

fall,

soil

temperatures are still warm from a long summer. The warmer soil temperature encourages root growth.

In the Spring, the soil is still cool from the Winter and roots are very slow to become established. Even if you grow plants from seed indoors and transplant outside when the temperature warms, new sprouts still don’t have the advantage of those planted in the fall.

WHEN EXACTLY IS FALL? The fall season officially begins with the equinox in late September. However, Fall weather varies considerably from one part of the country to the next. Basically, the best period for fall planting is around six weeks before the first hard frost in your area. Just keep in mind that the roots need to have time to become established before Winter sets in.

AUTUMN BLOOMERS Fall isn’t just a time to put the garden to sleep and start getting ready for Spring.

The growing season isn’t quite over yet.

You can add color and new life to the garden by replacing dying Summer Annuals and Perennials with Autumn blooming plants like Pansies, Chrysanthemums, and Ornamental Cabbage and Kale, Marigolds, and others. OL

50 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

ROOSTER BOOSTER RECAP p . 5 4

FIRST RESPONDER BBQ p . 6 0

B O A R D M E M B E R S P O T L I G H T: S H A W N PAT T E R S O N p . 6 2

→

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

51

CHAMBER CURRENT

C H A M B E R B OA R D MEMBERS

IN THE NEWS

The Kentucky Aviation Association (KAA) has elected Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport (OWB) Director Tristan Durbin as this president.

The association exists to foster and promote aviation facilities, safety, industry, business, recreation, and education in Kentucky. Durbin joined the board two years ago when the annual conference came to Owensboro, and he was asked to join the planning committee.

“This is something I’m really proud of and excited about,” Durbin said. “Our primary goal and mission is advocacy for airports across the state. We work closely with legislators to advocate and educate.”

Chamber Board Member Kerry Bailey received a job promotion at UniFirst, where she now serves as the Human Resources Strategic Business Partner - Supply Chain.

Congratulations, Kerry!

52 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

WELCOME KITTY!

T

he Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the appointment of Kitty Jones as its Director of Membership. Jones assumes the role upon the departure of Shelly Nichols.

Kitty was formerly the Director of Employment Opportunities, the division of supported employment for Puzzle Pieces, a local nonprofit that serves more than 400 clients with disabilities. She led a team of ten supported employment specialists, who, under her leadership, were named the 2023 Education and Workforce Development Institution of the Year by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

She led her team to more than 100 successful client placements into job roles and has developed key partnerships with local high schools and postsecondary schools to provide Pre-Employment Transition Services to those with disabilities. Kitty is an active partner in the development of the Workforce Inclusion Coalition to promote a more inclusive community for individuals with disabilities.

Kitty is a 2021 graduate of Leadership Owensboro. She currently serves as the head Cheer Coach for Daviess County High School where she has been coaching for the last 5 years (17 years overall) and brought home the school’s first ever State Championship.

“I am truly excited to take on this new adventure as the Director of Membership for the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce," Jones said. "I look forward to engaging with our community, fostering strong relationships, and supporting the growth and success of our local businesses. I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic and impactful organization while growing alongside a team of strong women!”

“We are over the moon to welcome Kitty Jones to our team,” said Candance Castlen Brake, President and CEO. “Her depth of involvement in the community, her deep understanding of our Chamber and her love for Owensboro make her a standout in all she does. Our members deserve a Chamber that is working tirelessly ensuring that they have the tools they need to thrive and grow. Kitty is a natural advocate and will tirelessly for our members.”

When not working or at a sporting event, Kitty enjoys time outdoors and traveling with family and friends.

Kitty and her husband, Nick, have two children; Genarose and Everett.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

5

ROOSTER BOOSTER, SPONSORED BY BRESCIA UNIVERSITY 7:30 a.m.

Owensboro Convention Center

5

CYP AMPED UP ARTISTRY UNVEILING

17 CYP GUYS AND TIES:

8:15 a.m.

Burns Middle School

17 CYP GUYS AND TIES:

9:30 a.m.

Tamarack Elementary School

17 CYP COFFEE AND CONVERSATIONS

Immediately Following Rooster Booster

7:30 a.m.

Joys of Cooking: Joyful Java & Juice

11 CYP PROJECT EMPOWER:

18 CHAMBER AMBASSADOR

GIRLS & GOALS 4:15 p.m.

FORMAL MEETING

Ben Hawes

12:00 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce Third Floor Conference Room

14-15 OWENSBORO AIR SHOW

21 CYP VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: GROOVIN’ ON THE GREEN

5:00 p.m.

Owensboro Convention Center Lawn

24 CYP COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT MEETING

24 EDUCATOR’S IN THE WORKPLACE IT/STEM SESSION

25 CYP FORMAL MEETING

11:30 a.m.

Chamber of Commerce Third Floor Conference Room

26 CYP SPECIAL HAPPY HOUR

5:00 p.m.

Surprise Location To Be Announced!

OCTOBER EVENTS

2 3

RIBBON CUTTING: WINGATE INN 12:15 p.m.

51 Bon Harbor Hills

9:30 a.m.

Tamarack Elementary School

ROOSTER BOOSTER, SPONSORED BY OWENSBORO COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE

7:30 a.m.

Owensboro Convention Center

10 CYP GUYS AND TIES:

8:15 a.m.

Burns Middle School

10 CYP GUYS AND TIES:

15 CYP COFFEE AND CONVERSATIONS 7:30 a.m.

16 CHAMBER AMBASSADOR SOCIAL MEETING 12:00 p.m.

23 CYP SOCIAL MEETING 11:30 a.m.

...

I VOTE Because

24 RED, WHITE AND BLUE PICNIC, SPONSORED BY BIG RIVERS ELECTRIC CORPORATION 5:00 p.m.

City Hall Lawn

29 CYP COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT MEETING

29 EDUCATOR’S IN THE WORKPLACE MANUFACTURING SESSION

Elections are just around the corner! Get involved with the Chamber’s GO Vote initiative. Scan the QR code and share with us why you are voting. Just print out the PDF, write why you vote, take a photo with your sign and send it to the Chamber at chamber@owensboro.com! For more information about voting go to daviessky.org/voting. #GOVote

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

53

CHAMBER CURRENT

R O O ST E R B O O STE R RECAP

Sponsor:

JULY

J

uly’s Rooster Booster event was truly one for the books, featuring Kentucky legend Renee Shaw and Owensboro native Kelsey Kirkpatrick Starks, both accomplished television journalists. Candance Castlen Brake, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of involving interns from across the Chamber membership to inspire the next generation of community leaders and encourage young people to return to Owensboro.

The program was sponsored by Visit Owensboro, the official tourism organization dedicated to promoting Owensboro as a vibrant destination for visitors. They showcase the city’s unique attractions, events, and cultural offerings, encouraging travelers to explore and experience everything Owensboro has to offer.

AUGUST

A

ugust’s Rooster Booster breakfast featured Michael Antonelli from Baird Private Wealth Management. Antonelli, a Market Strategist, spoke about how historical parallels can inform modern financial concerns, bridging the gap between Baby Boomers and Millennials. He emphasized that fear has always been part of the market and encouraged clients to consider historical context when addressing their current financial anxieties.

Baird, Rooster Booster’s August sponsor, is a global financial services firm founded in 1919, managing over $375 billion in client assets. With a presence in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, Baird offers services in Private Wealth Management, Asset Management, and Investment Banking. As employee-owners, they prioritize long-term client relationships, financial stability, and ongoing investment in expertise and culture.

54 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

Speaker: Michael Antonelli

Sponsor:

NEW MEMBERS 923 Media, LLC Blonde & Boozie, LLC Burger King CLIK, LLC Conexon Ervin Cable Construction, LLC Health and Safety Sciences, LLC J. Todd Thompson CPA PSC Keller Williams Elite Realty, Jamie Beatty Lady Luck Tattoo and Body Piercing Oscar’s Owensboro Racing and Gaming Paint Headquarters Pro Vision Construction Revenite Financial Services Rize & Shine Services, LLC Rock N Roll Sushi Owensboro TownePlace Suites Owensboro

RENEWALS 270 Homes Group of Keller Williams Elite 270 Homes Group of Keller Williams Elite Realty, Kevin Dehart 54 Pizza Express - East Adorn Salon & Boutique Aid the Homeless, Inc. All About You Salon & Spa All-Star Waste Services, Inc. Alpha Laser & Imaging, LLC Alvey’s Sign Co Inc Angela Clark, Tony Clark Realtors ATA Aull Appraisals Auto Truck and Trailer, LLC Barret-Fisher Company, Inc. Best One Tire & Service Blue Line Entertainment Brandon Scott Mullins Memorial Foundation Brewco Marketing Group C and P Trucking, LLC Cabinets Unlimited Carter Lawn Management, LLC Century Aluminum of Kentucky Cintas Corporation Commercial Warehousing, Inc. Commonwealth Concrete Coatings LLC Courtyard by Marriott Owensboro Crazy Me Gifts & Apparel D.J. Johnson David P. Taylor Antiques Daviess County Farm Bureau Federation Daviess County Teachers Federal Credit Union Diggers, Inc. Diversified Management, Inc. DMC Graphics Don Moore Toyota-Mitsubishi-Nissan-Honda

Edward Jones, Ed Krahwinkel, Financial Advisor Efficient Air Heating & Cooling Elder Advantage Elevator Solutions, Inc. Estes Farms Ever Bin Clean Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Owensboro, KY Fern Terra Assisted Living, LLC First Christian Church Foreman Watson Land Title, LLC Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools Furniture Warehouse Gardner Engineering & Consulting, PLLC German American Girls Incorporated of Owensboro-Daviess Co. Grace Christian Academy of Owensboro Gramps Coffee and Donuts Granted Green River Asset Building Coalition, Inc. Harold’s Economy Cleaners & Laundry Hayden Construction Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari Home Inspired, Inc. Husk Signs Irving Materials, Inc. Johnson’s Dance Studio Josh’s Broken Feather Inc Joys Cooking Classes | Joy-Full Meal Prep Kahkola Tech, LLC Kahn, Dees, Donovan & Kahn, LLP Kaiser Aluminum Warrick Karen Gross, Realtor KeeFORCE Kentuckiana Animal Clinic Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance - Bill Hodskins Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance - Chris Hoskins Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance - Gavin C. Roberts Insurance Agency, Inc. KimiWeb King’s Great Buys Plus Lee’s Famous Recipe Fried Chicken Living Hope Community Church Lizzie’s Diner Marcus W. Bosley & Associates, Inc. Marshall Ventures Martha Fitts Clark Matthew 25 AIDS Services McEnaney Family McDonald’s - Hwy 54 McEnaney Family McDonalds - Parrish Avenue McEnaney Family McDonald’s -2750 Frederica Street McEnaney Family McDonald’s -4800 Frederica Street Meadow House Flowers and Gifts Mechanical Systems Inc. Merchant Centre Court -- ODCTA Midwest Ear Nose & Throat, Head & Neck Surgery (operated by Ohio County Healthcare) Miracle Ear Mizkan America, Inc. Morley Murphy Appliance Co., Inc.

Murphy Business Sales- South Central KY Nick T. Arnold Jewelers Norman King Electric, Inc. Oberst Printing Company O’Bryan Contracting, Inc. OMUfibernet Owensboro Bourbon Society Owensboro Daviess County Regional Airport Owensboro Insulators, LLC Owensboro Museum of Fine Art Owensboro Museum of Science & History Owensboro Sister Cities Owensboro Symphony Packages Plus Pasture Belt Farms, LLC Peoples Bank Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 633 Prairie Farms Dairy Precision Garage Door of Owensboro Evansville Premier Medical Group Professional Properties and Construction, LLC PVF Supply Company, Inc. Real Hacienda Mexican Restaurant Riney Hancock CPAs PSC Risner & Associates, JoAnn Risner River City Insurance Agency RiverCities Asset Management, LLC RiverPark EyeCare, PLLC Rosehill Elmwood Cemetery Ruoff Mortgage Senior Community Center of Owensboro - Daviess County Serene Relief Wellness SIP Owensboro St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter St. Joseph Peace Mission for Children Sterett Crane and Rigging Strode Farms Swan Cleaners & Shirt Laundry T & W Valve and Machine Co. Inc. Tanner Publishing Co. Terry’s Tees The BHG Realty, Jason Bellamy The BHG Realty, Stephanie Bertram The BHG Realty, Steve Lewis The BHG Realty, Tonya Lewis The Children’s Advocacy Center of Green River The Eric Group The Honey Do Service, Inc The Malcolm Bryant Corporation The Miller House Restaurant & Catering The Party Space Place Theatre Workshop of Owensboro Vector Engineers, Inc Vizion Mortgage Wells Fargo Advisors - Bluegrass Wealth Advisors Wells Health Systems Wilson’s Custom Flooring

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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CHAMBER CURRENT

CHAMBER MEMBERS OF THE WEEK

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with a membership base of nearly 1,000, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives, serving as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.

JULY

CLIFF HAGAN BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

The Cliff Hagan Boys Club opened its doors in April 1967 and became chartered later that summer by the Boys and Girls Club of America. As landscapes changed, the board of directors changed the name to the Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls Club to include its female members in 1993. The nonprofit has grown and evolved drastically over the last half-century and currently boasts six locations in four counties: Daviess, Bulter, Ohio, and Henderson.

RETIREMENT & FINANCIAL STRATEGIES

Local Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional Jerry Goetz opened Retirement & Financial Strategies at 3402 Frederica Street in 2018. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Goetz wanted to create a local family business to provide top-level service and advice for generations to come.

Also a CFP®, Goetz’s daughter Emma joined the team in 2022, while his son, Evan, joined earlier this year.

CHAMBER AMBASSADOR

OF THE MONTH 56 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

ELITE RISK ADVISORS

Elite Risk Advisors specializes in auto, business, home, life, and Medicare insurance. Their priority is helping our customers find the best coverage in order to protect what matters most in life. As an Independent agency, we work with a wide variety of top carriers to help you find the best coverage to suit your exact situation. Amber Dennis opened Elite Risk Advisors (ERA) in October 2023.

DON MARIO’S

Orallis Radilla, along with her family, first embarked on the journey of Don Mario’s in a modest space near the tracks on West Second Street in 2014. A decade later, their unwavering dedication has led to a flourishing downtown location, an expanded menu, and the relatively recent acquisition of Real Hacienda.

JULY & AUGUST

CHARLOTTE NEWTON

JOYS COOKING CLASSES & JOYFULL JAVA AND JUICE

Ashley Webb purchased Cooking 101 on KY 54 in 2019, changing the name to Joys Cooking Classes shortly after that. She began offering fun and educational hands-on cooking classes and private events for children, teens, and adults and has since expanded to include a full-service cafe and meal prep services.

Webb launched Joyfull Java and Juice earlier this year. The restaurant offers an assortment of fresh juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and gourmet coffee. The menu also features several sandwich and wrap options for breakfast and lunch, along with various salads and soups.

AUGUST

NICK T. ARNOLD JEWELERS

Nick T. Arnold Jewelers, a family-owned business, has been a trusted name in fine jewelry since 1902. With two Owensboro locations, they specialize in offering a wide selection of high-quality diamonds, custom designs, and timeless pieces to suit every occasion. With a commitment to exceptional customer service and craftsmanship, Nick T. Arnold Jewelers continues to be the go-to destination for those seeking elegance and personalized care in their jewelry shopping experience.

BLUEGRASS BIKER NEWS

In 1999, a poorly attended motorcycle poker run for a child in need sparked an idea that would grow into something much larger. Jimmy Rhoades and his wife were at the event when they realized they could do more to help. With a network of friends and a desire to make a difference, they began spreading the word about charity events throughout the tri-state area.

MARY KENDALL HOME

The Mary Kendall Home has been in operation since 1904. It recently expanded its outreach services to include a community services division, providing essential support to Owensboro and nearby counties. Mary Kendall Community Services (MKCS) was initially established to offer counseling services but has evolved to address a broader range of community needs, including outpatient therapy, targeted case management, and parenting classes.

SUPREME DREAM REALTY

Supreme Dream Realty, founded by Owner, Broker, and Realtor Vickie Ballard, is dedicated to making the real estate process enjoyable for buyers and sellers in Owensboro and the surrounding areas. With a strong commitment to personalized service, every client—whether purchasing their first, second, or forever home—is treated as a top priority. Supreme Dream Realty has grown to include nine skilled agents, all focused on delivering exceptional real estate experiences.

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Shelly Nichols, Chamber Vice President, at 270-926-1860 or shelly@owensboro.com.

Charlotte Newton is an insurance agent at Houchens Insurance Group. She has been in the insurance industry for about 10 years. Charlotte helps large commercial businesses with their insurance needs at the Owensboro location on Frederica Street. Charlotte’s main goal is to educate her clients on their policies so that they know exactly what they are getting and that they have the right coverage. She loves building relationships with her clients. In her free time, she loves spending time with her four children and two grandchildren. She loves to read and anything adventurous.

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CHAMBER CURRENT

2024 CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC The 2024 Chamber Golf Classic was a swinging success! This annual event allows Chamber Members the opportunity to network on the greens, fostering valuable connections that go beyond the fairways. This event has proven to be a great opportunity for Members to drive their business forward while enjoying a fantastic day of camaraderie and collaboration.

We want to thank our sponsors who made the 2024 Chamber Golf Classic possible: Presenting Sponsor:

Owensboro Health Platinum Sponsors:

Hartz Contracting Houchens Insurance Group NextEra Energy Resources RiverValley Behavioral Health Gold Sponsors:

323 Staffing Solutions A+ Derr American Engineers, Inc. Atmos Energy Cleveland Cliffs Domtar EM Ford Green River Distilling Hafer Independence Bank Kaiser Aluminum Warrick Kenergy Moore Automotive Team O’Bryan Contracting Old National Bank OMU OMU Fibernet Optimize U Owensboro Riverport Authority Owensboro Times/Tanner+West RBS Design Group Riney Hancock CPAs PSC

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Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline Southwire Sun Windows Team Owensboro U.S. Bank Unifirst Corporation Weedman/Evergreen Lawncare Golf Ball Sponsor:

Big Rivers Electric Corporation Hole Sponsors:

Baird Fastek German American Bank HPC Kentucky Wesleyan College Malone Workforce Solutions Morley PC Quest Regional Land Title Company Servpro South Central Bank Food and Beverage Sponsors:

Brew Bridge Chicken Salad Chick Chick-fil-A Drakes Ole South Barbeque Print Sponsor:

Greenwell Chisholm

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

KET COMES TO OWENSBORO

KET's Kentucky Edition program started 'road shows' last summer highlighting communities across Kentucky. This summer, they featured Owensboro.

Kentucky Edition is KET's nightly public affairs program that airs weekdays at 6:30/5:30c. Several episodes were recorded live at the Bluegrass Museum in Owensboro July 9-11 with some features on Owensboro in the mix of the day's news. Stories that were recorded included the following: Green River Distillery Owensboro BBQ Riverfront development Owensboro Dance Theater Aaron Kizer (I'll be there for his event on 6/21) Bluegrass Museum Owensboro Symphony and Arts Museum Owensboro Innovation Academy/iMiddle School OPS and DCPS two new superintendents ROMP festival Kentucky Guitar Works The visit culminated in a panel discussion with Mayor Tom Watson, Representative Suzanne Miles, OH Hospital CEO Mark Marsh, Sara Hemingway from the MYF, CYP Chair Jake Boswell, and President/CEO of Chamber CCB serving on a panel moderated by Renae Shaw of KET. S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

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CHAMBER CURRENT

BUILDING

BONDS CYP AND WENDELL FOSTER UNITE FOR FIRST RESPONDER BBQ 60 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

T

he Greater Owensboro Chamber Young Professionals partnered with Wendell Foster for the annual First Responder’s BBQ again this year to celebrate Owensboro and Daviess County law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTs who serve our community each and every day. The event allows our local First Responders to connect with residents of Wendell Foster and community members in a nonemergency setting and enjoy some good food, good music, and great conversations.

CYP members who volunteered at the event served as BBQ Buddies by pairing up with Wendell Foster residents to interact with local First Responders and form new friendships.

Jake Boswell, Chair of CYP stated, “We thought it would be good for us to take the residents and introduce them to the First Responders to get the conversations started, and it worked out beautifully.”

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CHAMBER CURRENT

CHAMBER BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

SHAWN PATTERSON

PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OR SOUTHERN STAR CENTRAL GAS PIPELINE

Tell us about the journey that led you to Owensboro and a little bit about your family.

I had worked in the industry for around 24 years, and Jimmy Staton who used to be my boss and the former CEO of Southern Star, offered me a job as the Chief Operating Officer of Southern Star a couple of times, and at the time I said no because I was already an officer of a much larger company. But, then the company I was with at the time wanted me to take an Executive position with them in Calgary, Canada or Houston, Texas. That was when I called back Jimmy Staton and asked if he still would have me in Owensboro at Southern Star.

For my family it was getting back home.

We are midwest folks. My wife’s family is from Indiana and she and I both went to college in Indiana. My parents also retired in Indiana, so it was nice to get closer to home when I took the job at Southern Star.

I grew up a military brat, so I’m not really from anywhere. I was born in California, and we moved around quite a bit. I lived in Europe and Germany three different times for about ten years, and we eventually ended up in Indiana where my dad taught ROTC at Indiana State, DePauw, and then RoseHulman. I ended up going to Rose-Hulman and playing football there for four years, and got my degree in engineering.

My son played high school baseball and football, and I had the opportunity to coach him from the time he was five years old all the way through high school. Our family still goes on vacation with the boys that I coached and their families which is pretty special. Now, my son is at West Point.

And then I have two daughters. One is a

62 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

sophomore at Hanover College and she plays soccer, and then my other one is a little 10 year old, and she plays soccer too. So, the kids keep us hopping on the weekends that’s for sure!

So, with all of that being said we love the midwest, and we love Owensboro and Kentucky. This is a great community, and my family will be here for a while. We have had seven homes over the years, and so far we have called Owensboro home the longest, and we plan on living here even longer.

How does being on the Chamber Board inspire you to make an impact in our community?

I think the Chamber provides a unique platform to influence and uplift the community. It is a group of folks that really want to see Owenboro succeed. I have been transplanted in Owensboro, and I have participated in a lot of different Chambers, but this Chamber is great to work with, and I would say its second to none. I have been in smaller communities and larger communities, and the Owensboro Chamber really does a great job bringing businesses and people together to do better for the community.

One of the things that attracted me to Owensboro and more importantly keeps me here is the togetherness. Everybody seems to truly want to work together to see Owensboro’s success well into the future. I love partnering with other business leaders in town, and it inspires me to see how they all want to give back to our community, and see Owensboro do well.

How can we make Owensboro more attractive to employers, small businesses, and a diverse group of young people that want to find opportunity and success here?

For employers I think we have to continue

to create a business friendly environment by highlighting the city’s low taxes, streamlining the permitting process for new builds and looking at what incentives are out there for businesses to attract them to Owensboro.

I also think we have to focus on workforce development and capitalize on the amount of local colleges and universities here. For Southern Star we have had no problem attracting great talent in Owensboro. So, I think with what Owensboro already does with workforce development we need to continue that momentum and partnering with those universities to do that.

Infrastructure and accessibility is another thing that I think Owensboro does well, and we need to continue to build on to bring more employers to Owensboro.

In summary I think it’s a business friendly environment, and let’s continue to leverage it.

For small businesses I think we can continue to highlight the community’s commitment to supporting local businesses. For example the Shop Owensboro event that the Chamber does in the summer and during the holidays.

I also am a big fan of the Farmer’s Market.

When my son is home from college he loves to stop by the Farmer’s Market and see how the community rallies around that.

Also, with small businesses I think we have to ensure that there is access to resources such as business grants, mentorship programs, and the Leadership Institute. I think things like that help small businesses be successful.

For a diverse group of young people, we need to maintain affordable living and continue to grow our employment opportunities. We have everything from ag to energy to finance and accounting jobs. For a “small big town” there are a ton of career opportunities.

I think we are a very inclusive community, but we probably need to get stronger around diversity, and make that more foundational to Owensboro. All of our local schools seem to

be moving in the right direction with that.

It helps me and other business leaders in town to attract diverse talent. I want different experiences and backgrounds to have a seat at the table because at the end of the day it gives us a better product, and makes us all better.

everyone around her. It’s never about

Who in your personal and/ or professional life has been your biggest role model or inspiration?

and so he took a gamble with me, and

It’s hard for me to name one because there are just so many, but one I would say is my father, he was a noncommissioned officer in the Military.

He was a sergeant major in the Military and probably the youngest guy to go to the sergeant major’s academy at the time. He was a sun up to sun down kind of guy. His work ethic is like nothing I’ve ever seen. Even though he worked his tail off he was always there for the family. He taught me to be intentional in the moment. There’s no such thing as work-life balance, but be intentional rather that is with your family or when you are at work.

A second role model for me was one of my youth football coaches that I had when we lived in Fort Knox during my middle school years. His name was Tom Arflin. Tom was a retired military guy and he coached me for probably four years. I am a big sports guy, and I believe you learn so many life lessons through the game of football. I would’ve never got an engineering degree if I didn’t play football. Football is what kept me going and kept me motivated. Tom taught me accountability, being a self starter, and how to be a leader at a young age. Who knows where I would be without football.

And then I would have to say my wife. She probably has the biggest heart of anybody I have ever met. She was an engineering manager, but she stays at home now, and she really has the tough job. With her it is all about

herself. She is the true example of a servant leader. She doesn’t have a mean bone in her body, and if you know her you know that she puts everyone else before herself.

Finally, I’d say Jimmy Staton. I was Jimmy’s COO at two other companies.

He made me an officer in my thirties, I hope to say it paid off. He taught me that whole side of creativity, leadership, and responsibility.

So, I can’t say just one. I really have to credit all four.

We know you are a big football fan and have a passion for coaching, so what are you most looking forward to this upcoming season, and do you ever think you’ll call yourself a coach again?

I’ll say this: I am a huge football fan, but I am a huge soccer fan when my girls are playing. I have coached them when they were younger, and like I said I coached my boy all the way through high school in football and baseball.

But, in regards to what I am looking forward to this coming season, I’m extremely optimistic about Notre Dame. We’re in the top 10 and we’ve got a quarterback that’s a Duke transfer. We’ve got some great running backs, and some young and aggressive linebackers. We probably have the first or second best secondary in the nation, and we have two D-linemen coming back that were supposed to go pro, so that’s really exciting.

We are a little new on the offensive line, so that’s the big question mark coming into the season. But, we open up with Texas A&M, so we are going to find out if we are for real or not right out of the gate. But, I am pretty optimistic.

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CHAMBER CURRENT

RIBBON CUTTINGS

A TIME-HONORED TRADITION Ribbon Cuttings are so special to local businesses and organizations. The tradition of a Ribbon Cutting is most commonly known to celebrate a grand opening, but Chamber Members also use a Ribbon Cutting to celebrate renovations, anniversaries, new locations and joining the Chamber.

BLACK PEARL HOME CARE

SPARKLE BRITE CAR WASH

BURGER KING

IVY TRELLIS FLORAL & GIFT

64 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

RECIPE: SWEET & SAVORY PUMPKIN RECIPES p. 66

WHAT WE’RE EATING NOW: RAMEN p. 69

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: MCHENRY’S EVENT PLANNING p. 70

→

Photo by JAMIE PLAIN

F L AVO R

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Flavor R E C I P E

Sweet & Savory Pumpkin Recipes Recipes and photos by J A M I E P L A I N

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s one ingredient that perfectly captures the essence of fall: pumpkin!

Whether your recipe is sweet or savory, pumpkin can elevate your cooking with its rich flavor and vibrant color. We made sure to include a recipe in both the sweet and savory categories so that you can see just how versatile this autumn gourd can be!

Pumpkin Dump Cake INGREDIENTS: 1 (29oz) can pumpkin puree

1 (12oz) can evaporated milk 1 cup light brown sugar 4 large eggs 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice 1 box spice cake mix 1 cup chopped pecans 1 cup melted butter toffee bits, whipped cream, or ice cream for garnish INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 9x13 baking pan with cooking spray

2. In a mixing bowl, combine

pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, brown sugar, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Pour it into the prepared baking pan.

3. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture (do not mix in), then pour the melted butter on top. Sprinkle the top with pecans and (optional) toffee pieces.

4. Bake for around 50 minutes,

until the middle is set. Remove and let cool for 15min, then serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream!

66 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

Pumpkin Risotto INGREDIENTS: 1/2 lb. Bacon, diced 1 onion, diced 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 1/2 Tablespoons Sage leaves, chopped 1/2 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp paprika 1/4 tsp dried thyme 1/4 tsp ground cumin salt/pepper to taste cayenne pepper to taste 4 cups chicken broth (optional extra bouillon for more flavor) 1 15oz can pumpkin puree 3/4 Cup grated parmesan for garnish 2 Tbsp unsalted butter for garnish Extra sage leaves for garnish INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees 2. In a dutch oven, cook diced bacon over

the seasonings and cook for 3 minutes,

separately.

stirring.

7. Once the rice is done, remove the pan

5. Stir in chicken broth (and extra

from the oven and stir in browned butter

medium heat until crisp (about 12min).

bouillon) and pumpkin puree

and grated parmesan. Stir vigorously

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon

6. Bring the pot to a simmer. Stir, cover,

- if you prefer a creamier risotto, stir

to a paper towel-lined plate.

3. Add the diced onion to the bacon fat.

Saute over medium heat until softened.

4. Add rice, garlic, chopped sage, and all

and transfer to the oven. Bake for 16 minutes,m then test for doneness. Cook

in additional broth. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste.

until rice is tender. When its close to

8. Garnish with additional parmesan/

done, brown the 3 Tbsp unsalted butter

sage and serve warm. OL

S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24 Owensboro Living

67

68 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

Flavor D I S H

What we’re eating now Until recently, most of us likely associated ramen with the brick of dried noodles that came in a plastic bag with a spice pack. And while there’s nothing wrong with some microwave chicken noodles, there has been a recent movement to elevate ramen. Here’s where you can find it here in Owensboro.

Spicy Beef Ramen

YIDO RAMEN At Yido Ramen, located at 5051 Frederica Street, their website invites customers to “Dive Into Ramen Ecstasy.” Their menu boasts 16 different ramen variations, as well as poke bowls, appetizers and salads.

But for us, the Spicy Beef Ramen stood out above the rest. This dish consists of spicy broth with beef slices, a half soft-boiled, bean sprouts, corn, bamboo shoots, seaweed & scallions.

Bistro Miso Ramen Noodles

SHOGUN Shogun’s version of ramen is served in a miso broth, a traditional Japanese fermented seasoning. From there, you can choose your protein, including steak, chicken, seafood, pork, shrimp or a combination.

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Flavor R E S T A U R A N T S P O T L I G H T

McHenry Event Planning Written by J A C Q U E L I N E R U S S E L L Photos by J A M I E P L A I N

70 Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 24

R

ay McHenry’s culinary journey began at a young age, helping his grandmother cook at the HL Neblett Center, where he would rather help than play. This

early exposure sparked a passion for cooking, leading him to work in various fast-food chains and local restaurants.

It wasn’t until his mid-twenties that Ray decided to take his culinary skills seriously, transitioning to more upscale establishments like Legends and Lure. His dedication and talent eventually earned him a sous chef position at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, where he balanced his full-time job with his budding catering business, McHenry Event Planning.

WHAT RAY COOKS Chef McHenry is known for his diverse dishes, but his

personal

favorite

to

commitment to quality and

luxury picnics and charity

flavor ensures that every dish

functions.

he prepares is a memorable

participated in the Farm to

experience for his clients.

Table event for the Boys and

cook is fried chicken. His has garnered a reputation for its exceptional rosemary chicken, a crowd favorite at many events. Ray’s cooking philosophy delighting with

dishes

centers his

on

customers

they’ve

never

McHenry Event Planning offers a wide range of services, from intimate private dinners to

grand

weddings

and

events.

Ray’s

community

team prides itself on providing excellent and

customer

creating

Ray

Girls Club and is set to cater

CATERING EVENTS

catering business, however,

Recently,

service

unforgettable

a United Way dinner soon. As a local, family-run business, McHenry emphasizes

Event

Planning community

involvement and personalized service, making each event special and unique.

For more information or to

tried before or transforming

culinary

They

book their services, you can

their opinions about foods

cater to all kinds of events,

find McHenry Event Planning

they previously disliked. His

including

on Facebook and Instagram. OL

experiences. birthday

parties,

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

100 Years of Family Business Written by L O R A W I M S AT T

What a delight to leaf through the pages of this issue of Owensboro Living magazine to read about so many of the family businesses that contribute so much to our community. All of these enterprises were created with the highest hopes of success, and there can be no greater measure of success than the idea of passing the business down to the next generation.

A special edition of the MessengerInquirer from a century ago – May 29, 1924 – spotlighted numerous businesses that were thriving at that time. Only a few of those remain in operation today, but all of them, in their own way and at their own time, helped to make our hometown what it is today.

One hundred years ago, readers of the day contemplated a detailed pen and ink drawing of “Owensboro of Tomorrow,” as revealed by a mythological figure representing “Progress” as she pulled back the curtain of fate. There, in the optimistic future, laid a bustling metropolis marked by numerous smokestacks from factories and industries along the riverfront, with church steeples rising in the background as crowded rooftops of homes faded into the distance, giving way to rolling hills of fertile farmland.

A paddlewheeler, proudly carrying the name “Owensboro,” made its way down the Ohio River, passing a bridge stretching from Kentucky to Indiana – a bridge that would not exist in reality for another 16 years.

For the next 96 pages (!), every possible aspect of life in Owensboro is explored in language that captures every positive superlative imaginable.

In the area of manufacturing

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alone, Owensboro is celebrated for producing the following “articles and commodities: “Buggies and light delivery wagons, automobile bodies, wheels and forgings for pleasure and light vehicles, farm and log wagons, gray castings, selfcontained flour and corn mills, ditchers and graders, portable vises, chairs for home and office structure iron fabrication, sewer pipe, brick and drain tile, stock and poultry feeds, wheat and corn products, canned food products, smoking and chewing tobacco, cigars, electric lamps, leaf tobacco redrying, lumber flooring, meat products, harness and leather goods, concrete building blocks, machine plies, stone and marble cutting.”

Whew.

Among the many family-owned businesses featured in this anthology are the haberdashery of A. Graf and Son, selling dry goods and shoes, established in 1890 and operated by August and William Graf. Their advertisement proudly boasted their commitment of

“Facts Always, Truth Only.”

Likewise, C.P. Clark & Sons, which opened their doors in 1897, was proud of their history as “pioneers in the farm implement and harness business.”

A greenhouse, nursery and retail business owned by J.A. Tapscott, his wife and son, was blooming, finding particular success with sales of potted plants and cut flowers, including carnations and chrysanthemums.

Already that year, they had shipped five carloads of canna and dahlia bulbs across the central United States.

Also working with their hands, but in a very different way, Drs. Eula and J.J. Ketchum offered their work in the area of chiropractic medicine. “Our work,” their ad proclaimed, “is with the hands, the human spine and the power within.”

Levy’s – established in 1872 by M. Levy, and now managed, 52 years later in 1924, by his two sons and a daughter – continued to do a thriving business in downtown Owensboro as “an exclusive shop for better dressers.”

But not many businessmen, then or now, could walk in the footsteps of J.W. Gipe, who took over his father’s shoe repair business and was now involving a third generation in his son. Gipe estimated that he had half-soled a quarter of a million pairs of shoes, equating to 37,000,000 stitches at an average of 300 stitches per pair.

Page after page, year after year – family after family dedicated themselves to their trades.

Whether one can look back from the vantage point of 2024 and declare any of them as successes is irrelevant. The important thing is, these families did the work they loved, contributing each in their own small ways to the greater good of our community.

Perhaps it is best to close with the words of W.T. Brown, who conducted his business in partnership with Delbert J. Glenn: “A man’s name may mean everything or nothing; it depends entirely upon how the owner has used it. The name of a business is equally dependent upon the way the owners conduct it.”

May the name of every business represented in this issue reflect the pride, integrity and commitment to excellence of its owners. OL

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