Owensboro Times in Print - Vol 1, Issue 1

How Andrea Widmer found out her son died

by

Lights, Camera, Owensboro: Former Malco theater to become high-tech sound stage

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

Owensboro is stepping into the spotlight as a player in the film and television industry. The former Malco theater on Frederica Street is being reborn as a high-tech, cuttingedge sound stage. With stateof-the-art facilities — including Kentucky’s only 30-foot LED virtual production wall — the transformation marks a groundbreaking moment for

the city and the state’s entertainment industry.

The facility, called Kentucky Sound Stage, will accommodate feature films, television shows, commercials, and music videos. While the sound stage is geared toward high-level productions, it will also serve local businesses and content creators.

“We are committed to be-

ing a part of this community,” said Kristi Kilday, who along with Jeremy Wilson co-owns Goldenrod Film & Television, the company spearheading the project. “Yes, we’re bringing Hollywood to Owensboro, but we’re also building something that benefits the local economy and workforce.”

Continued on page 13

By RYAN RICHARDSON

Andrea Widmer found out her son was dead from a Facebook post. A single photo — Taylor’s white Camry, flipped upside down in a cornfield — stole the breath from her lungs. The caption read: “Coroner called to the site of a onecar accident.” Andrea dialed Taylor’s number over and over. No answer. She told herself it couldn’t be true, but in her heart, she already knew. Before the police could call, before anyone had a chance to tell her the worst news of her life, the internet had already done it for them.

August 7, 2014, began like any other day for Andrea. She had just finished work and, as part of her daily routine, logged onto Facebook. That’s when a single image on her screen changed everything.

Taylor was supposed to be at football practice at Apollo High School. Earlier that day, he’d had an orthodontist appointment. Andrea tried to reason with herself. Maybe he was just running late. Maybe she would see him when she picked up his sister at school.

Maybe it wasn’t his car.

But deep down, she knew. She kept calling. Kept hoping. Kept trying to push away the panic rising in her chest. When she arrived at Apollo to pick up her daughter, Andrea asked Taylor’s friend if he was there. No, his friend hadn’t seen Taylor. Andrea’s stomach twisted as she dialed his number again. Still no answer. By now, Andrea had called her husband.

“There’s a picture on Facebook, and I’m pretty sure it’s Taylor’s car,” she told him. “I’m not really sure where the accident is, just that it says Martin Luther King (Boulevard).”

Andrea clung to the possibility that she was wrong. She drove to Burns Middle School, where her daughter had an event that night. They went inside and paid her school fees. The fear was suffocating, but there was still no confirmation. Maybe this was all a misunderstanding. Maybe Taylor would call. Maybe he would walk in the door with that goofy grin of

Continued on page 5

Photo by Ryan Richardson

Photo

Jason Tanner

Owensboro Times: Expanding our commitment to local journalism

When Owensboro Times launched in August 2018, our goal was simple: provide Owensboro and Daviess County with a reliable, fast, and hyperlocal digital news source. In an era where news travels quicker than ever, we wanted to ensure our community had immediate access to the information that mattered most. Over the years, we’ve built a strong foundation of trust with our readers by prioritizing integrity and accuracy over being first and just getting clicks. Now, we’re taking the next step in that commitment by launching a quarterly print product — one that will deliver meaningful stories straight to every mailbox in Daviess

County at no cost and with no subscription required.

Why print? Why now?

From the beginning, OT has been dedicated to the digitalfirst model. We recognize that times have changed, and most people consume their news online. However, as strong as our digital presence is, we also recognize the enduring value of print journalism. Some stories deserve to be held in your hands, revisited over coffee, or shared around the dinner table. Plus, print provides an opportunity to reach members of our community who may not engage with digital platforms as frequently. This quarterly publication will allow us to highlight stories in a new way, offering a tangible connection to the news that shapes our hometown. Most importantly, we’re ensuring it reaches every single home in Daviess County — not tossed in a driveway or left vulnerable to the elements, but delivered directly to your mailbox where you’re sure to receive it.

What can you expect?

Our print edition will reflect the same commitment to hyper-local journalism that has made Owensboro Times the trusted news source in our community. Each issue will feature a mix of in-depth reporting, feature stories, sports

news than ever before, and requiring print publication for official notices is both inefficient and antiquated. A digital publication allows public notices to be available anytime, anywhere, making them far more accessible than a printed newspaper that may or may not be opened before it’s discarded.

We are advocating for legislation that modernizes these requirements to recognize digital platforms as “newspapers of record.” However, until the law changes, we’re making a proactive move to meet the current standard by introducing our print product as a first step.

Not just any newspaper

coverage, and more. We’ll bring you stories that matter, stories that inspire, and stories that inform.

We’ll have everything from business spotlights and economic development updates to profiles of extraordinary individuals in our community. We’ll dive into cold cases that remain unsolved, highlight local sports teams and standout athletes, and shed light on the triumphs and challenges that define life in Owensboro and Daviess County. Some of this content will be exclusive to print, making each issue a must-read for those who want the most comprehensive look at our community.

A bigger goal: Becoming the newspaper of record

While our expansion into print is an exciting new chapter, it also serves a practical purpose. Currently, outdated language in Kentucky law dictates that only print newspapers qualify as the official “newspaper of record.” This designation is critical because it determines which publications can carry public notices, legal announcements, and other official records.

At Owensboro Times, we believe this law needs to change. The reality is that digital journalism is not the future — it’s the present. More people turn to online sources for their

We’ve never been an organization that does things halfway, and this print edition will be no exception. From the quality of the printing to the format of the paper itself, every decision we’ve made has been with our readers in mind. Unlike traditional newspapers with oversized broadsheets, our print edition will be in a more consumable, compact-size format — easier to handle, easier to read, and filled with engaging content.

Unlike some print publications that rely heavily on syndicated, non-local content, every issue of Owensboro Times in print will be focused entirely on Owensboro-Daviess County. No canned stories, no generic articles from a wire service — just meaningful journalism that speaks directly to the community we serve.

A new chapter, the same commitment

This expansion into print doesn’t change our foundation. Our print edition is simply an extension of our mission — another way to inform, engage, and connect with the people who make this community what it is.

We are grateful for the support this community has shown us over the years, and we’re excited to embark on this new journey together. Whether you read us online, in print, or both, we promise to continue delivering the news that matters.

The future of local journalism is evolving, and Owensboro Times is evolving with it. Thank you for being part of our story. We can’t wait to share this next chapter with you.

The Owensboro Times staff includes: front row, from left, Christy Chaney, Jason Tanner, and Ryan Richardson; and back row, from left, Nathan Seaton, Jana Boswell, John Kirkpatrick, Isabelle Velez, and Max Rayman.

By THE OT STAFF

his, asking what was for dinner.

Then, as she pulled out onto Goetz Drive, her phone rang.

“You need to pull over,” the voice said.

“I pulled into a parking lot,” she recalled. “I asked, ‘Is it him?’ And they said ‘Yes. It’s him.’”

The finality of those words shattered everything, a feeling she knew was coming.

“At that moment I knew, but I knew that it was him when I saw that picture on Facebook,” she said.

That single, horrifying image — her son’s car, crushed, abandoned in a cornfield — told her what no one else had the chance to say. She found out on Facebook. Not from an officer. Not from a phone call. Not from a gentle knock at the door. From a news post, cold and indifferent, spread across social media for thousands to see.

The news outlet took the photo down, but it was too late. The damage was irreversible. Andrea had already seen it. She had already memorized it. And she could never unsee it.

A nightmare that won’t fade

Witnesses said Taylor had been driving like normal one moment and was off the road the next, Andrea said. It had rained that day. Maybe he hit a slick spot. Maybe he was going a little too fast. Maybe he was just an inexperienced driver who got caught in a moment he couldn’t fix. There was no evidence of distraction — no cell phone use, no reckless behavior. Just a terrible, tragic accident.

But the details didn’t change the reality. Taylor was gone. In the days that followed, Andrea struggled to process the loss. But one thing remained constant: that picture. It was burned into her mind. She had even saved a screenshot of it, though she hated that she had. It was a reminder of a moment she never wanted to relive, yet couldn’t escape.

“I’ve never gone to the crash site,” Andrea admitted. “I tried once, but I couldn’t do it. I had to turn around. But I don’t have to go there because I already have the visual ingrained in my head. I’ve seen it. And I can’t unsee it.”

A legacy that lives on

Though Taylor’s life was cut short, his impact continues. Andrea said he was larger than life, a boy who didn’t know a stranger, a protector of those he loved. He was a wrestler, a football player, a comedian who could make anyone laugh. He had a deep faith and was an active member of Immaculate Catholic Church. He was, in every sense, a light to those around him.

After his passing, his family was overwhelmed by stories from friends, classmates, and even strangers who had been touched by his kindness. His presence was so strong that even Buffalo Wild Wings honored him, hanging his football jersey above their door — a tribute to a boy who, in his 16 short years, had left an unforgettable mark.

After Taylor’s death, the Widmers’ neighbors had bracelets made in his honor, inscribed with his nickname: “Big Hungry.” He had always been a big kid with an even bigger appetite, but more than that, he was someone who embraced life with enthusiasm. The bracelets became a symbol of his impact, and Andrea had worn hers every day for the past 10 years.

When Andrea’s original bracelet broke recently, she posted about it online. Within 20 minutes, a friend was at her doorstep with a new one. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes.

A plea for change

Andrea isn’t against journalism. She understands the need to report the news. But she has become an outspoken advocate against the use of graphic accident photos, pleading with news outlets to consider the

impact before hitting publish.

“There are ways to tell the story without the picture,” she said. “That image stays with you. It keeps you up at night. It forces you to imagine your loved one’s last moments, their final thoughts. And no family should have to find out like that.”

Her advocacy isn’t about silencing the news. It’s about compassion. About remembering that behind every accident, every headline, there is a family whose world has just been destroyed.

“My picture, thankfully, was just the underside of a car,” she said. “But I’ve seen others — cars crushed beyond recognition, vehicles torn in half. Families are left with those images seared into their minds. They don’t get to imagine their loved one peacefully passing. They get the horror of seeing the wreckage and knowing that someone they love was inside.”

Moving forward, not moving on

More than a decade has passed since the accident, and while time has softened the raw edges of grief, it has not erased it. Andrea knows that she will never “move on” — but she has learned to move forward.

She hopes to take her advocacy to a larger stage, perhaps pushing for laws that protect families from the pain she endured. It won’t bring Taylor back, but maybe it will spare another mother the trauma of discovering her child’s death through a social media post.

“We’re not trying to stop the news,” she says. “We just want them to think before they post. To remember that behind every accident is a family who deserves to hear the news in the right way.”

Andrea Widmer never wanted to be an advocate. She never wanted to tell this story. But she does — because Taylor deserves to be remembered. Because no parent should have to experience what she did. And because some pictures should never be seen.

The Widmer Way: OT’s commitment to compassion in journalism

Owensboro Times was founded on the belief that news should be reported with integrity, responsibility, and above all, compassion. One of our core values, known as the “Widmer Way,” was inspired by Andrea Widmer’s heartbreaking experience — learning of her son Taylor’s passing through a Facebook post rather than from law enforcement or family.

Andrea’s advocacy against publishing graphic accident photos struck a chord with us. We believe that news should inform, but never at the expense of human dignity. That’s why, at Owensboro Times, we choose words over images when reporting fatal accidents. Families deserve the chance to receive devastating news in the right way — not through a viral post.

Owensboro Times also upholds the practice of not identifying victims’ names in fatal accidents and violent crimes until we are certain that the family has

been properly notified and involved. We recognize that in moments of crisis, accuracy and sensitivity must go hand in hand, ensuring that no loved one is blindsided by unexpected news.

As we continued to listen to feedback from the community, we also adopted the policy of avoiding the identification of minors unless it is directly relevant to the story — particularly for children 12 years old and under.

The Widmer Way is more than a policy; it’s a promise to handle sensitive stories with care, ensuring that no mother, father, or loved one learns of a tragedy the way Andrea did. We remain committed to upholding this standard, honoring Taylor’s memory, and setting a precedent for ethical, compassionate reporting.

Some information doesn’t need to be shared. And some stories are best told with empathy, not exposure.

Downtown Owensboro on the rise: A quick look at two major projects

By RYAN RICHARDSON

Groundwork underway for indoor sports facility

Construction on downtown Owensboro’s indoor sports facility is progressing, with crews focused on deep foundation work. Assistant City Manager Lelan Hancock said roughly 230 foundation piles are installed, and contractors are working on pile caps and reinforcement rebar before pouring concrete. Despite winter delays, the project remains on track for a June 2026 opening.

The 88,000-square-foot facility, which broke ground in August 2024, will feature nu-

merous basketball and volleyball courts; a modular turf field for sports like futsal, pickleball, cornhole, cheerleading, and archery; and a 9,200-squarefoot mezzanine for spectators.

Hancock emphasized the economic benefits, noting that sports tourism generates significant revenue for communities. He compared early skepticism about the facility to past concerns over the Greenbelt, which has since become one of Owensboro’s most popular amenities.

Located at 3rd and Cedar streets, the facility will be managed by OVG 360, which also currently manages the Owensboro Convention Center, Sportscenter, and RiverPark Center.

Riverfront Brio development moving forward

Despite significant delays due to supply chain issues, weather, and other factors, construction on the Riverfront Brio development is advancing in downtown Owensboro. The project, across from the Owensboro Convention Center, will include a 144-room Home2 Suites hotel, 117 apartment homes, and a parking garage — all housed within a single structure designed to enhance downtown’s hospitality and residential offerings.

The hotel will open first, with

the latest project being this summer. After the hotel opens, construction on the apartment portion of the facility will continue, and the central courtyard will remain closed during that process.

The bottom floor of the structure, which covers a little more than 10,000 square feet, will be reserved for retail space. Developers say they will build out the space to suit tenant needs.

The developers said Brio aims to create a dynamic livework-play environment in the city’s core, adding that they believe the project will catalyze future growth and tourism in Owensboro.

Photo by Daniel Benedict

Breaking down a Daviess County tax dollar

A Daviess County tax dollar is allocated across various government services, with the largest portions funding fire protection, law enforcement, and the jail. However, the breakdown depicted represents tax revenue allocations only and does not include other sources of county income, such as fees, leases, and state contributions.

According to Daviess County Treasurer Jordan Johnson, the county operates primarily from a general fund, meaning expenses aren’t strictly matched dollar-fordollar to tax revenue. Additionally, certain services — such as solid waste management — are entirely self-funded through rates and fees rather than tax dollars.

Public safety and jail operations dominate spending

The largest portions of the county’s tax revenue go toward the fire department, sheriff’s office, and jail, which together

Breaking

down

account for 45 cents of every tax dollar. Johnson noted that salaries make up about 80% of the expenses for the fire department and sheriff’s office, while operational costs — such as fuel, supplies, repairs, and uniforms — make up the rest. The jail’s budget is approximately 65% salaries, with the remainder covering detention center operational expenses, including costs related to inmates.

Road maintenance and infrastructure

With 10 cents per dollar allocated to roads, some residents have questioned whether the funding is sufficient to maintain infrastructure. Johnson clarified that while tax revenue contributes to the road fund, the total road budget is about $6 million, with additional funding from the state. Road repairs are prioritized based on assessments throughout the year, and county officials believe the current budget meets infrastructure needs.

a City of Owensboro tax dollar

For every tax dollar collected by the City of Owensboro, the largest portions go toward public safety, with the police and fire departments accounting for nearly half of the city’s tax revenue allocation. However, the breakdown strictly represents tax revenue distribution and does not include other sources of funding, such as program fees and external grants.

Public safety accounts for nearly half of spending

The largest share of tax revenue is allocated to the police and fire departments, which together receive nearly 49 cents of every tax dollar.

According to Finance & Support Services Director Angela Waninger, salaries and benefits make up about 83% of the fire department’s expenses and 82% of the police department’s. The remaining funds cover operational costs such

as fuel, repairs, uniforms, capital replacements, and other essential needs.

Parks as a community investment

Owensboro takes pride in its parks and recreational facilities, dedicating 6.8 cents per tax dollar to park services. These funds support the management and maintenance of 960 acres of parkland, including 25 parks, two swimming pools, 38 tennis courts, four pickleball courts, two golf courses, a sports arena, and an ice arena.

While parks generate revenue through facility rentals and programs, Waninger said the department is subsidized by the general fund. She said parks are designed for public good and recreation, contributing to community value and environmental health, rather than an endeavor to generate profit.

dio System – $592,390 per year

spent efficiently, the county follows a strict procurement

herently require higher funding due to operational and capital needs. Additionally, many services — such as roads, the jail, and the sheriff’s office — receive supplementary funding from sources beyond tax rev-

Ultimately, the allocation of tax dollars is designed to balance statutory obligations with the county’s operational needs, ensuring essential services are funded while maintaining fis-

Fiscal responsibility and cost-saving initiatives

Waninger said city officials and department leaders work together to ensure tax dollars are spent efficiently. She said Owensboro boasts the lowest expenditure per capita in the state at $1,664, compared to Paducah’s $2,484. Recent cost-saving measures include transitioning to electronic payments (ACH) instead of paper checks, reducing labor, paper,

and mailing costs. Additionally, competitive bidding is used for services that do not legally require a bid, allowing the city to secure lower prices through market competition.

Waninger emphasized that Owensboro’s budget is crafted with input from elected officials, department directors, and residents to reflect the city’s needs and priorities. She said every tax dollar is allocated with

The city allocates 0.1% ($100,000) of its general fund to capital transfers, which support small-scale capital projects. Every

with

undergoes careful

to

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to Owensboro

Graphics by Andrea Roberson

The biggest local stories of 2025 you may have missed

Already in 2025, Owensboro has seen a mix of breaking news, business developments, and community milestones. This inaugural print edition of Owensboro Times offers a look back at the biggest stories so far — but these are just a glimpse of the daily coverage we provide online. From crime and government to retail, sports, and more, stay connected with Owensboro Times every day on our website and social media, and get news delivered to your inbox with our free daily email newsletter.

Constant pleads guilty to federal child exploitation charges, sentencing set for May

Matthew D. Constant, 53, former Owensboro Public Schools superintendent, has pleaded guilty to nine federal charges related to the sexual exploitation of children and will remain in custody until sentencing in May. The indictment details criminal conduct spanning 2019-2023 and involving three separate minor victims.

Autopsy shows 8-month-old Rudd had meth

in system, 4 charged with murder

Although an autopsy report showed methamphetamine was in her system, the cause of death for 8-month-old Miya Rudd was ruled undetermined due to the state of decomposition. Several new charges including murder were recently levied against Rudd’s parents and two other people.

DCSO: Man fires handgun at another motorist while driving, faces 20 counts of wanton endangerment

A man was arrested and charged with 20 counts of wanton endangerment after firing a handgun multiple times from his vehicle at another motorist on U.S. 60 East.

Big crowd turns out for opening of Owensboro Racing & Gaming

A line wrapped around the building and more than 1,000 people turned out for the grand opening of Owensboro Racing & Gaming on February 12. The $100 million gaming and entertainment complex features 600 state-of-the-art historical racing machines, a retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering, and multiple dining and beverage options.

Davis Auto Group files for bankruptcy amid legal dispute between owners

Owensboro’s Davis Auto Group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid an ongoing legal dispute. Minority owners Matthew Hayden and the Estate of Jack T. Wells have accused majority owner Jerald “Jerry” Ray Davis of financial mismanagement and self-dealing. Davis has filed counterclaims in the case.

Your Community Mental Health Center

RiverValley Behavioral Health is proud to be the first thought, first choice for behavioral healthcare in our communities, serving the Green River area since 1967. We offer a full range of mental health services and supports, in addition to substance use treatment, and services for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Matthew Constant appears at a court hearing on August 9, 2023. In February 2025, he pleaded guilty to nine federal charges. | Photo by Josh Kelly

Owensboro Racing & Gaming is officially open, with 600 state-of-the-art historical racing machines and a retail sportsbook. | Photo by Ryan Richardson

New

gun store KWG thriving with classic business approach created by original

Whittaker Guns

New gun store KWG quickly made a name for itself in the local firearms market, drawing steady crowds and robust sales in the weeks after it opened. Located on the west side of Daviess County, the gun store is co-owned by Luke Kuegel and Chris Whittaker, who are reviving a business model reminiscent of the original Whittaker Guns approach.

Buckle, Boot Barn coming to Gateway Commons

Retail stores Buckle and Boot Barn are coming to Gateway Commons. They will be near Publix Super Markets, which will be located at the corner of Pleasant Valley Road and Hayden Road.

The Earle entering new era: Longtime owner Epling passing torch to Whiteside

After nearly four decades at the helm, David Epling has stepped down as the owner of The Earle, a longtime fixture in Owensboro’s retail community. Epling purchased the men’s clothing store in 1986 and has passed the torch to Nick Whiteside.

Murphy’s Sewing and Vacuum to close after more than 80 years of service

Murphy Sewing and Vacuum – a family-run business that has served the community for more than 80 years – is closing its doors. Owners John and Earlene Docimo, alongside Earlene’s daughter Britney Kirtley, announced the decision as they prepare to enjoy retirement and focus on their family.

Kidstop

welcomes new owners as Wilsons purchase longstanding children’s

boutique

Elizabeth and Sharon Wilson have purchased Kidstop, a long-standing children’s boutique in Owensboro. The store has served the community for nearly 40 years, and the Wilsons plan to continue its tradition of personalized customer service while expanding its offerings.

David Epling (left) has handed over ownership of The Earle, a longtime fixture in Owensboro’s retail community, to Nick Whiteside (right). | Photo by John Kirkpatrick.

Owners John and Earlene Docimo announced they are closing Murphy Sewing and Vacuum after more than 80 years. | Photo by John Kirkpatrick

Abandoned ship: Strange saga of Cold War-era vessel sinking into the Ohio River raises questions about owner’s history

A Cold War-era naval vessel is slowly sinking in the Ohio River, and no one seems to know what to do with it. The YP-675’s journey to Owensboro is as murky as the waters it’s disappearing into, with its owner — a nonprofit mired in controversy and legal troubles — seemingly nowhere to be found.

Inmates, deputy honored for heroism in fiery semi-truck rescue

Four inmates and a deputy from the Daviess County Detention Center were honored for their bravery in rescuing a semi-truck driver trapped in a fiery crash that occurred on January 16 on the Wendell Ford Expressway.

Golf Emporium to bring full-scale shop, cutting-edge amenities to Owensboro

Jason Cox is a seasoned golf professional with decades of experience as a player and a coach. Now, he’s opening the Golf Emporium, a full-scale golf retail and indoor training facility with two indoor Foresight Falcon hitting bays.

Owensboro’s Bivin brothers share sideline for Notre Dame’s run to championship game

Harris and Hunter Bivin took different paths in their football careers, but this season the Owensboro natives reunited on the sidelines at Notre Dame, sharing a family bond during the program’s run to the college football national championship game.

7 Brew Coffee to open new drive-thru location in Owensboro

Coffee enthusiasts in Owensboro are in for a treat, as 7 Brew Coffee is set to open a new location this summer on Frederica Street in front of the former Towne Square Mall site.

The Pizza Project to mix new flavors with tradition in Thruston

James Payne is launching a fresh venture called The Pizza Project, aiming to blend tradition with unique new offerings. It will be in the building that has served as a pizza spot in the Thruston area for more than 30 years under various names, including Home Run Pizza and JJ’s.

Documents: Owensboro Dunkin’ planning to rebuild restaurant, expand drive-thru

Dunkin’ Donuts is looking to rebuild its Owensboro restaurant at the same location, making way for a more efficient drive-thru and expanded layout, according to documents obtained by Owensboro Times.

A Cold War-era naval vessel, the YP-675, is slowly sinking in the Ohio River, and it’s story is a mystery. | Photo courtesy of Chris Conley

Brothers Harris (left) and Hunter Bivin shared the sidelines as Notre Dame made a run to a football national title game appearance. | Photo provided

7 Brew Coffee | Photo provided

A life changed in an instant: How a tragic accident shaped who

Mayor Tom Watson would become

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

On September 15, 1970, Tom Watson started his day like any other. He checked his tractor-trailer to ensure it was in good condition and loaded a five-ton bulldozer onto his lowboy trailer before heading from Owensboro to Bowling Green for work.

He had no way of knowing that day would change his life forever.

Upon arriving at the job site, Watson successfully unloaded the bulldozer. Another bulldozer, this one equipped with a bucket instead of a blade, needed to be moved to Tompkinsville. Unfamiliar with this model, Watson was unaware that counterweights had been installed to keep it from tipping backward when loading gravel into a dump truck. As he attempted to drive the dozer onto the trailer, the front, much lighter due to the bucket, continued to rise.

“I heard someone holler ‘jump,’ but I was trapped underneath the radiator and couldn’t free myself,” Watson recalled.

As the dozer flipped backward, he was thrown from the seat. The machine came crashing down, landing on Watson. The tracks continued to turn until bystanders rushed in to help. They managed to redirect the machine, preventing it from crushing him entirely, but not before it severely damaged his right leg.

“Ten thousand pounds landed diagonally across my body, from just outside my neck on the left side down to my right knee,” Watson said.

The damage was devastating. Watson fractured his collarbone, shoulder blade, and pelvis and suffered a dislocated left arm, 12 broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a mangled right leg.

“I only felt pain in my chest and had no idea my leg was injured,” he said.

Fighting for his life

As Watson drifted in and out of consciousness, the ambulance arrived. He recalled an attendant repeatedly checking Watson’s eyelids, seemingly unsure if he was still alive.

“I finally hit him in the nose and told him, ‘I’m not dead, just get me to the hospital,’” Watson said.

Once at the Bowling Green hospital, doctors worked to stabilize him. It wasn’t until a doctor leaned over him that Watson fully grasped the severity of his injuries.

“He looked at me and said, ‘Son, we are going to have to take your leg off,’” Watson recalled. “I began cussing and screaming, ‘There is nothing wrong with my leg! My chest is hurting!’ And then he said, ‘There’s not enough left to put in a shoebox. Can someone put this big SOB to sleep?’”

Watson woke up in a hospital room, facing a new reality. His right leg was gone. With no intensive care unit in the rural hospital, he was placed in a makeshift recovery ward known as the “Amen Corner,” a place where family members could pray or say goodbye to their loved ones.

“I would recognize some of the guys I played high school and college football with crying, and I thought, ‘Somebody in here must be in really bad shape,’” Watson said. “Little did I know, it was me.”

He said his mother reassured him: “Thomas Hart, everything happens for the best. You will be just fine.”

Road to recovery

Watson remained in the hospital for 70 days. At one point, fluid filled his right lung, leading to an emergency bronchoscopy.

Continued on page 12

Photo by Jason Tanner

“The doctor said, ‘This is going to hurt. I’m going to insert a tube down your throat to try and pull some of that fluid out. Don’t fight me,’” Watson

bulance crew that had first scraped him off the ground was there to take him home.

“The guy I hit in the nose said he couldn’t believe I was alive and apologized for what he had said that day. I apologized, too,” Watson said.

The procedure was agonizing, and Watson lashed out, even breaking a handrail off his hospital bed in pain. But it wasn’t the end of his suffering. He was given morphine for pain management, but after 22 days, he made the decision to stop.

“I finally said, ‘No more,’” Watson

A life of service

That accident could have ended Watson’s story. Instead, it shaped him. He dedicated his life to helping others, entering the field of prosthetics in 1972. Along with his wife, Barbara, he co-owned Tom Watson’s Prosthetic and Orthotics Labs, Inc., serving individuals with limb loss for 50 years.

His withdrawal was brutal. At one point, he called his doctor at home in the middle of the night, begging for just one more

“He got out of bed, came to the hospital, gave me one last IV shot of morphine, laid the syringe on my chest, and said, ‘That’s

perspective

Watson’s perspective on his own struggles changed one night when a male nurse, Joel, wheeled him down the hall to visit another patient – a young man who had lost both legs in a train accident and had also lost his wife

“ A good attitude is everything. That’s what got me through. And that’s what keeps me going.”

Watson also gave back through youth sports, helping found the KFL youth football league, coaching at both the high school and collegiate levels, and serving on numerous local and state boards.

Watson first served as Mayor of Owensboro from 2005 to 2008. He was re-elected in 2016 and again in 2020 and 2024, making him the longest-serving mayor in the city’s history.

“Joel looked at me and said, ‘And you think you got it bad?’ That was the defining moment that put me on the right track to never give up,” Watson

His recovery continued, and eventually, he was cleared to return home.

Despite the challenges he faced, Watson has never wavered in his commitment to his community. He credits his resilience to the many “guardian angels” who helped him along the way – from the bystanders who saved his life to the doctors, nurses, and strangers who guided him through his darkest moments.

“A good attitude is everything,” Watson said. “That’s what got me through. And that’s what keeps me

The facility will include multiple soundproof stages, standing sets, white cyc rooms, and green screens. Standing sets allow productions to recreate locations that may be difficult to access for extended periods, such as courtrooms or airplane cockpits. The virtual production wall — technology used in major productions such as The Mandalorian — allows filmmakers to create immersive backdrops without ever leaving the stage.

Winton said the building’s former use as a theater made it the ideal choice.

“Theaters are already de-

signed to be soundproof, which made this a perfect site for conversion into a production facility,” Winton said.

The project is backed by Kentucky’s Entertainment Incentive (KEI), a tax program designed to attract film, television, and digital media productions. The incentive has played a key role in making Kentucky an increasingly attractive destination for the entertainment industry.

“Sound stages are crucial for states with tax incentives to attract film and television productions,” Kilday said. “Larger productions require a controlled environment where daylight and external noise aren’t factors, allowing them to shoot day for night or night for day without disruptions. This facility strengthens Kentucky’s standing as a serious player in the film industry.”

It’s already proving successful — Goldenrod Film & Television has produced two films in Owensboro, utilizing local talent and businesses.

Some scenes of their latest movie, Bachelor Santa, were

filmed in the new sound stage, offering a glimpse of its potential.

Beyond film, the facility aims to create a lasting economic impact by working with schools and colleges to develop training programs that help individuals transition into the film industry.

Kilday said the goal is to attract not just filmmakers but also skilled laborers, such as carpenters, electricians, and even caterers to support productions.

“There are so many transferable skills in the film industry,” Kilday said. “If you can build a house, you can build a film set. If you’re a hairstylist, makeup artist, or accountant, there’s a place for you in this industry.”

Kilday and Winton see this as more than just a business. They say it’s an opportunity to cultivate an industry that provides jobs and inspires future generations. While Goldenrod will produce its own films at the site, the facility is also open to outside productions.

The facility is already op-

erational and available for rental, with ongoing construction to enhance the space further. Monthly events will also be hosted to educate and connect creatives looking to break into the industry.

Kilday said local officials and private investors have shown strong support for the project, recognizing its potential to boost economic growth in the region.

“We’re creating an entirely new economy in Owensboro,” Winton said. “This isn’t just a film studio – it’s an opportunity for our community to be part of something bigger.”

Goldenrod Film & Television expands in Kentucky

Kristi Kilday and Jeremy Winton co-founded Goldenrod Film & Television to develop infrastructure and attract film and television productions to Kentucky.

Kilday, a producer and media entrepreneur, has worked on advertising campaigns, produced feature films, and secured distribution deals. She relocated to Kentucky in 2023 to take advantage of the state’s film incentives and establish new media businesses.

Winton is recognized for his community involvement and partnered with Kilday to promote Kentucky as a filming location. Their efforts contributed to Amazon adding Kentucky to its list of preferred filming locations and Goldenrod Film & Television securing approval for the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive in 2024.

Most recently, the company filmed The Christmas Pitch and Bachelor Santa in Owensboro. Goldenrod continues working with industry professionals to bring productions to the state.

Jeremy Winton

Kristi Kilday

Big changes in a small town: Whitesville’s development, community progress, and revitalization

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

Whitesville is embracing growth and transformation, with new developments reshaping the small town’s future. From a state-of-the-art school campus and the town’s first Mexican restaurant to historic preservation efforts and community park upgrades, these

projects reflect a commitment to progress while honoring tradition. As businesses expand and infrastructure improves, Whitesville continues to evolve, offering residents more opportunities and amenities than ever before.

New school moving forward

Progress continues on the construction of the new St. Mary of the Woods School and Trinity High School, with sewer and storm drain installation already underway. The architect’s bid package is nearly complete, and the Steering Committee is currently exploring the feasibility of a geothermal system.

The Rev. Brian Roby said that such a system could provide a significant rebate, factors like ongoing maintenance, costs, and the need for trained volunteers are also being considered. Once a decision is made and the bid package is finalized, the Steering Committee will select a contractor and seek final approval from the Diocese to begin Phase 1 of construction.

“We are excited to see visible progress on the site,” Roby said. “Each step forward brings us closer to providing a modern, state-of-the-art learning environment for our students, while ensuring long-term sustainability for our school community.”

Roby said the current schools, built in the 1950s and 1960s, are facing mounting maintenance challenges and space constraints.

“In addition to these issues, we’ve been out of space for the last four years and have had a growing waiting list each year,” Roby said.

The two-story building will feature separate entrances for SMWS and THS, with shared spaces including a media center, cafeteria, and gymnasium. Construction on Phase 1, estimated at $11.2 million, began

in early 2025 and is expected to take 18 to 24 months. Phase 2 includes an auditorium and additional gym space, estimated at an additional $5.7 million.

Ernesto’s Mexican restaurant set to open in March

Whitesville will soon welcome its first Mexican restaurant with the opening of Ernesto’s Mexican Bar & Grill at 10130 KY 54, the former site of Kelly Rae’s Country Cafe. Owner Ernesto Martinez said the restaurant is nearly complete and if everything goes according to plan, the grand opening is set for March 3.

“We’ve fixed a lot of issues with the building, and now everything looks great,” Martinez said.

Ernesto’s will offer breakfast from 5-10:30 a.m., fol-

Photo

lowed by a traditional Mexican lunch and dinner menu from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Martinez has also secured a license to serve beer and margaritas, making it the first restaurant in Whitesville to offer alcoholic beverages. He said the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.

“People have been calling nonstop asking when we’ll open,” Martinez said. “It’s clear Whitesville is ready for this.”

The dining area has undergone significant renovations, including fresh paint, drywall repairs, and Mexican-themed décor. Once the weather improves, Martinez plans to add an outdoor patio, pending approval from city officials.

Whitesville Community Park adds handicapaccessible playground

The City of Whitesville recently unveiled a new accessible playset at Whitesville Community Park, made possible by a $24,999 grant from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. The playground now includes an Alta Glider and ramp to accommodate children with mobility impairments.

Mayor Patsy Mayfield said the city is committed to making recreational spaces more inclusive.

“We are thankful to provide a more inclusive environment

to help children of all abilities stay active and engaged,” Mayfield said.

The park, which hosts Trinity High School’s home baseball and softball games, will be the site of several major tournaments this year, including the 12th District Softball Tournament and the 3rd Region Baseball Tournament.

Stinnett House restoration progress continues

The Whitesville Historical Society continues restoration efforts at the Stinnett House, a historic Victorian home acquired in 2017. Years of neglect left the house in disrepair, but volunteers have made significant progress on revitalization in recent months.

Jackie Bickett, a member of the Historical Society, said key structural work has been completed, including porch floor and ceiling resurfacing, front gutter repairs, and foundation brick tuck-pointing.

“The house now has new windows in the turret and dining room, a new roof, and half of the box gutters have been restored,” Bickett said. “It’s all about preserving the history of

The Society is actively seeking donations to continue the project, as contractors begin work on the home’s interior. The long-term goal is to use the home as both a historical venue and an event space.

Mayor Patsy Mayfield: A leader in many ways

In addition to her role as mayor, Mayfield has been a member of the Whitesville Volunteer Fire Department for more than 30 years. Her dedication to the community extends beyond City Hall, often responding to medical calls and emergency situations.

Mayfield’s leadership and service were recently featured in Kentucky City Magazine, highlighting her extensive

contributions to Whitesville.

The article detailed her journey from driving a school bus for 30 years to becoming a firefighter and eventually the mayor. It also emphasized her hands-on approach to problem-solving, from addressing the city’s sewer plant issues to securing funding for community projects including the inclusive playground.

“Being a firefighter has allowed me to serve Whitesville in a unique way,” Mayfield said. “We do everything we can to help people in need.”

She remains committed to making Whitesville a better place for all residents.

“I’ll serve as long as I can,” Mayfield said. “I love this community and want to see it thrive.”

Enrolling Today

Whitesville.”

Handicap-accessible playground at Whitesville Community Park

Photo by John Kirkpatrick

Owensboro Times Managing Editor Ryan Richardson was recently named the Journalist of the Year for the Daily Division of the Kentucky Press Association (KPA).

“But to actually be honored with the award is still shocking and humbling, because there are so many incredible journalists who are also deserving of being recognized.”

OT’s Richardson named Journalist of the Year for Daily Division of KY Press Association “

The prestigious award was presented during the KPA’s annual convention in January and recognizes Richardson’s exceptional contributions to journalism, marking a milestone achievement for the locally owned news outlet.

Richardson has been with Owensboro Times since its founding in 2018 and competed against journalists from some of Kentucky’s largest and most notable daily newspapers to claim the honor.

“I think most any journalist worth their merit always sort of hopes to win an award like this, and many, including me, think to themselves they have a shot at winning,” Richardson said.

Ryan’s commitment to high-quality journalism has elevated Owensboro Times from a startup news source to a trusted community institution.”

Richardson’s tenure at Owensboro Times has been marked by transformative leadership. He started with the company on day one as the sports editor. Since becoming

managing editor in 2020, he has helped turn the publication into a trusted institution, known for its blend of hyperlocal reporting and digital innovation.

Under his guidance, the publication has experienced exponential growth, boasting millions of page views and video impressions annually while setting a high bar for digital journalism in Kentucky.

Richardson’s portfolio reflects his versatility and dedication. He has won awards for breaking news, ongoing coverage, and investigative stories as a writer; for feature, sports, and general news photography; and for contributions to OT’s team efforts in video production and special event coverage.

Christy Chaney, co-founder of Owensboro Times, said Richardson is the life force, moral compass, and unwavering standard of excellence that

Ryan Richardson | Photo by Jason Tanner

defines the newsroom.

“His dedication to truth, accuracy, and communityfirst reporting is the foundation of what we do,” Chaney said. “He does not just cover the news; he ensures that our stories reflect the heart and soul of Owensboro.”

Jason Tanner, also a cofounder, echoed that sentiment.

“Ryan’s commitment to high-quality journalism has elevated Owensboro Times from a startup news source to a trusted community institution,” Tanner said. “He adapts to the ever-changing media landscape while staying rooted in the values that make local journalism indispensable.”

Richardson’s accolades extend beyond his newsroom achievements. In 2023, he was named one of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s 40 Under 40 honorees. He also serves on the KPA Board of Directors as Digital Division Chair, where he leads statewide efforts to modernize how news is consumed and produced.

“Ryan’s ability to balance speed with accuracy, depth with clarity, and urgency with

responsibility makes him irreplaceable,” Tanner said. “Beyond his journalistic talent, Ryan is a leader, a mentor, and the heartbeat of our newsroom.”

Originally from Gleason, Tennessee, Richardson graduated from Murray State University in 2014 with a degree in journalism. Richardson and his wife Meghann, an Owensboro native, have a four year old daughter named Emery. He began his career working for weekly and daily newspapers in Tennessee and Kentucky before joining the Owensboro Times as its sports editor in 2018.

“Ryan winning KPA Daily Journalist of the Year is no surprise to us,” Chaney said.

“It is simply confirmation of what we have known all along.

His work has shaped not only Owensboro Times but also the broader community, keeping citizens informed and engaged. This award is a testament to his dedication, and we could not be prouder to have him leading the way.”

OT brings home 40 awards from KY Press Association for excellence in journalism YOUR STORAGE YOUR WAY

Owensboro Times brought home 40 total awards from the Kentucky Press Association (KPA) annual convention this year, including 2nd place overall in General Excellence in their division of both the advertising and news contests.

Co-founders Jason Tanner and Christy Chaney noted that aside from the focus on digital storytelling, one thing that sets Owensboro Times apart is the dedication to local journalism. Established in 2018, OT is the only locally owned news outlet in Daviess County.

“We’re local people telling the stories of other local people and businesses. But we’re not just here to report on the com munity, we’re here to support

by

it,” Chaney said. “We create a “Since day one, OT has em-

Photo

Jason Tanner

Faith, family, and tradition: Three generations working together at Owensboro Catholic

By RYAN RICHARDSON

At Owensboro Catholic High School, the hallways echo with the familiar sounds of students bustling between classes, teachers guiding young minds, and the quiet hum of everyday school life. But among these daily rhythms lies a story of deep family bonds, unwavering dedication, and a legacy that spans three generations.

For Cecilia Clouse, Owensboro Catholic has been more than just a workplace — it has been a home. At 81 years old, she proudly continues her role as the athletic secretary, a job she has held for 21 years. Her journey began long before her employment, as she watched her own children and grandchildren grow within the walls of Catholic education.

“It’s pretty special,” Clouse said. “I know where my daughter and granddaughter are, and they take care of me, too. We might be in different parts of the building, but we’re still connected.”

Her daughter, Sonya Drury, and granddaughter, Lindsey Renfrow, now walk the same halls she has dedicated much of her life to, each carving out their own roles within the school. Drury, who had spent years in factory work, found her way to the front desk of the high school, trading industrial

machines for the familiar faces of students and faculty.

“Mom told me about the job opening,” she said. “I applied, and I’ve been here ever since. This is my sixth year in a row.”

Renfrow’s path was a little different. She didn’t attend Owensboro Catholic as a student, graduating from Apollo High School instead. But when an opportunity arose to teach Spanish, she took a leap of faith.

“I never expected to be a Spanish teacher,” she said. “But being able to share my faith with these students — it’s something you don’t get in a public school. The students mean the world to me.”

Drury said there’s a unique atmosphere that makes Owensboro Catholic special.

“It really is like a family,” she said. “You know almost every student, every teacher, and every staff member. It’s not just a job — it’s a community. Everyone supports one another, whether it’s through daily work or during tough times.”

For Clouse, the school has been a second home.

“If you need something, someone is always there for you,” she said. “I wouldn’t have stayed this long if it wasn’t such a great place to work. I’ve seen so many students come

and go, and it’s amazing to see where they end up.”

Drury said one of the most remarkable aspects of their journey is seeing students grow — not just academically, but spiritually.

“The retreats are incredible,” she said. “You can see God moving and shaking in these kids. They come back different people.”

Renfrow added, “I’ve had the opportunity to go on two retreats as a team member, and they are truly life-changing. The things the students experience — their openness, their faith, and their growth — are nothing short of miraculous. Even non-Catholic students walk away with a deep respect for the spiritual journey.”

Their faith is a central part of why the trio cherishes their work.

“The fact that there are

kids that are here because they want to get closer to God and close to their faith while bettering their education is really special,” Renfrow said.

Though she initially started her career as a teacher, Clouse never imagined she would find such fulfillment in her role as the athletic secretary.

“When the elementary school I worked at closed, I needed a job, and this one opened up,” she says. “I interviewed, and I got it. It was a blessing in disguise because I’ve loved every minute of it.”

Her responsibilities have evolved over the last decade, but Clouse doesn’t mind.

“No two days are the same,” she said. “I do a lot of bookkeeping, scheduling the gym, handling finances, and managing the buses. Now that we’re turning one gym into a chapel, it’s even more of a juggling act. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Clouse fondly looks back on the numerous changes and improvements she has witnessed and been a part of over the years, but she said some things never change.

“We’ve added new sports, we’ve built new facilities, and the student body has changed in size,” she said. “But the heart of this school has remained the same. It’s still a place where students can grow in faith, education, and character.”

Drury and Renfrow feel the same way.

“We’re all here for a reason,” Drury says. “It wasn’t just luck — it was meant to be. We’re helping to shape students’ lives, just like my mom did for so many years.”

Three generations. One school. A legacy of faith, commitment, and family — woven into the very fabric of Owensboro Catholic High School.

Pictured, from left, are Lindsey Renfrow, Cecilia Clouse, and Sonya Drury. | Photo by Ryan Richardson

Photos by AP Imagery

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List price: $895,000 Address: 6628 Kingston Drive, Owensboro Listed by: Robert Williams, Triple Crown Realty Group | 270-313-2855

A journey of strength

By JAY FALLIN

Stay in the game with OT sports coverage

Owensboro Times delivers online daily coverage of high school sports, including recaps, in-depth game reports, and exclusive athlete features. Whether it’s a buzzer-beater, a record-breaking performance, or a rising star, we’ve got it covered.

Catch all the action at OwensboroTimes.com/Sports and @owensborosports on Facebook and X for even more updates!

OHS senior maintains unbreakable spirit despite brain tumor, loss of father

On a cool Friday evening in November 2024, the Red Devils of Senior High prepared to host the Ohio County Eagles in a first-round playoff football game. In most ways, the scene was similar to thousands of prior Friday evenings at the historic Rash Stadium. For one young man, though, it was a night he had dreamed of for as long as he could recall.

Tristan Kirkman, a senior defensive lineman, made his first varsity start that night. Kirkman, known affectionately by his teammates and coaches as “Goose,” had worked hard for this opportunity and was ready to make the most of his shot at Rash Stadium glory.

“The lead up to that game, it was awesome,” Kirkman recalls fondly. “My teammates and coaches were all so happy for me. My family was there and supporting me. To be able to run out with the starting defense for the first time and see and hear the crowd, the whole thing just meant the world to me.”

Kirkman finished the night with five total tackles, including two for loss — a banner night for any nose guard.

“It was one of the greatest nights of my life,” he said. “I will never forget the way it felt, and it was made so much better by having the love and support of my teammates all around me.”

For most spectators, it was easy to see how much Kirkman meant to his teammates. What very few of them knew, however, was how much adversity he had overcome in the years leading up to that night.

Kirkman, 18, was born and raised in Owensboro and is a product of Owensboro Public Schools. He spent time at both Foust and Estes elementary schools, then attended Owensboro Middle and High. The youngest of five siblings, Kirkman said that OPS has always been a part of his family,

“All my older siblings went to OHS, and I grew up looking forward to being a Red Devil,” he said.

Overcoming family hardships

When Kirkman was a freshman, his father died tragically and suddenly.

“We were still doing virtual school due to COVID that fall,” Kirkman said. “And one day

the phone rang and I got the heartbreaking news that my dad had passed. Even though I didn’t live with my dad, we were still very close and it was a really hard time for me.”

As he navigated this difficult season of life, Kirkman drew strength from his mother.

“My mom is the most positive, upbeat, hard-working person I know,” he said. “She has been there for me my whole life and always modeled for me what it means to be dependable. That time in my life would have been much more difficult if it hadn’t been for the love and support from Mom.”

Later that year, Kirkman and his mother faced another challenge. Their circumstances changed, and they had to move to Tell City, Indiana.

“We had to make a choice: transfer schools or travel almost an hour each way, each day for school,” Kirkman said. “Mom still had to travel to Owensboro every day for work, so she told me that she would support me either way. I decided that it was worth the sacrifice to get to stay at OHS and be with my classmates and teammates who mean so

Tristan Kirkman | Photo by David Grinnell

Brady Atwell, OCHS

Sophey Jennings, AHS

Jazmine Robinson, OHS

Cayden Ray, OHS

Annie Newman, DCHS

Houston Danzer, OCHS

much to me.”

Kirkman’s love for his school and his friends meant waking up and leaving home very early, and often not getting home until late at night, a sacrifice he shared with his mother.

“A lot of times when we wouldn’t get out of football or wrestling practice until late, it might be 7:30 or 8 p.m. before we were home for the evening,” he said. “Mom had to spend a lot of time after work waiting for me in the parking lot during practices, but she never made me feel bad or tried to get me to change my mind, she just supported me.”

Brain tumor presents new challenge

Last spring, as his junior school year wound down and summer was on the horizon, Kirkman was excited at the prospect of his senior year. After dealing with the heartache of losing his father and years of traveling nearly 100 miles each day to get to OHS, he was ready for the challenges and fun of school, football, wrestling, and more.

What he didn’t realize, though, was that his toughest challenge was still ahead of him.

“At the start of last sum-

mer, I started having headaches,” Kirkman said. “At first, I could ignore them and just chalk them up to allergies or something. But, after a couple of weeks, the frequency and intensity became too much to ignore. My mom made an appointment with my (primary care physician), and he decided that I needed a CT scan. We went to the hospital, and the CT scan revealed that I had a large growth in my brain. It was immediately recommended that I see a specialist.”

Waiting to see the specialist while worrying about the news was an agonizing time for Kirkman and his family.

“When the doctor comes in and tells you you have a brain tumor, and you’re only 17 years old, it’s heartbreaking. It’s terrifying. I didn’t know what to do,” he said.

At the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, after a few additional tests, it was revealed that Kirkman had a tumor on his pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. The tumor was benign, but Kirkman wasn’t out of the woods yet.

“The main concern was the size of the tumor and the fact that it was resting on my optic nerves,” he said. “The doctors were concerned that if it grew anymore it could start to

impact my vision. Again, I was terrified, wondering if I would have to spend the rest of my life without being able to see.”

Due to the location of the tumor, it was determined that surgery was not an option, but doctors were optimistic about treating it with medication, which Kirkman started at once. Though he was worried, Kirkman was glad to hear that he could continue with summer football practice while he was undergoing treatment.

“The few hours a day that I was at football practice was the only time I was really able to forget about it and really enjoy being a high schooler and being with my teammates,” he said.

After three months of taking medication and trying his best to live a normal life, Kirkman and his family received positive news during a followup visit.

“The tumor had shrunk significantly, and the medicine was working,” he said. “It was one of the greatest senses of happiness and relief I have ever experienced.”

Maintaining positivity after adversity

Despite all the challenges he has faced, Kirkman never failed to remain positive in the

face of adversity. Universally beloved by his teammates, classmates, teachers, and coaches, they all can say Kirkman brings an infectious spirit of enthusiasm and joy to all that he does.

While he’s new to the sport, Kirkman recently medaled at the City-County wrestling meet. According to his coach, though, it isn’t just his talent that sets him apart.

“It’s an honor to coach Tristan,” said OHS Wrestling Coach Griffin Kelly. “If I had to describe him in one word it would be determined. This is his first season with the wrestling program, and he is a phenomenal addition to the team. He’s made an immediate impact in the best of ways. He leads by example and supports everyone.”

Kelly’s sentiments are echoed by Kirkman’s football coaches.

“Tristan, despite facing numerous challenges, consistently demonstrates an exceptional work ethic and maintains a positive attitude that uplifts everyone around him,” said OHS Assistant Football Coach Blake Roberts. “His resilience in the face of adversity not only makes him an invaluable teammate but also a true inspiration to his peers. It’s been an honor to get to coach him.

He embodies what it means to be a Red Devil.”

Praise for Kirkman comes not only from his coaches but also his teammates. OHS junior Eli Hampton, Kirkman’s teammate on the Red Devil football team, recognizes the intangible qualities he possesses.

“Goose is what people would consider a ‘glue’ guy,” Hampton said. “He’s one of the most supportive and determined teammates I’ve had. Goose is a hard worker and is always smiling.”

When reflecting on how he has managed to maintain his positive disposition and joyful attitude despite so many challenges, Kirkman demonstrates a characteristic maturity beyond his years.

“I would say what keeps me positive is the fact that I get to get up each morning,” he said. “The things I have gone through have given me an appreciation for life, and I don’t take it for granted.”

When asked who inspires him the most each day, Kirkman answers quickly, confidently, and with a smile:

“My mom. She is the best. She has been there for me every step of the way. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. I will always be grateful for her.”

Ella Cason, OCHS

John Clay Ford, OHS Arianna Ramirez, AHS

Kaden Oller, DCHS

Blaise Barnett, THS

Ayden Fountain, OHS

Lucy Spaw, DCHS

Carson Fitzgerald, THS

Eli Smith, AHS

Shaping generations: Clay

White still leaving impact on Owensboro’s youth 34 years later

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

For more than three decades, Clay White has been a guiding force at the Boys and Girls Club of Owensboro, mentoring generations of children and leaving an indelible mark on the community. Whether he’s handing out high-fives, shooting hoops in the gym, or simply lending a listening ear, White has become a beloved figure in a place that has evolved from a modest facility on Frederica Street into a vital hub for local youth.

“The kids keep me coming back,” White said. “They have a whole lot of energy, and they keep me on my feet. They keep me young.”

That much could be seen as White prepared to take his photo for this story. Ten children were called over to join him, and they couldn’t have been more eager to participate. They all crowded around White for the photo, with one young girl happy to drape an arm around his shoulder.

While it was a bit of chaos wrangling the youngsters and keeping them still, White spoke to them with a gentle and patient voice full of love and understanding.

White, 53, was born and raised in Owensboro. A graduate of Owensboro High School, he first walked through the doors of the Boys and Girls Club as a volunteer. Over the years, he has helped shape the lives of countless individuals – some of whom now have children of their own walking through the club’s doors.

“I see different kids come in here all the time,” he said. “Some of them have grown, gotten married, and now they’re

Photo by Ryan Richardson

sending their kids here.”

A self-described jack-of-all-trades at the club, White bounces from activity to activity. One moment, he’s on the basketball court; the next, he’s in the game room, challenging someone to a round of pool. He greets every child with a smile and, in recent years, a bottle of hand sanitizer. To him, the club has never felt like work.

“It’s really fun,” he said. “But I do go home tired.” White acknowledges that working with kids presents challenges, as some will “give you a run for your money.” However, he has learned that mutual respect goes a long way in building relationships.

“It’s all in the way you talk to them,” he said. “If you respect them, they’ll respect you.”

“

It’s all in the way you talk to them. If you respect them, they’ll respect you. That’s something I’ve always believed.”

White has seen the Boys and Girls Club evolve dramatically since he first started. The facility itself has expanded, and technology has changed the way the organization operates. The staff has also grown, with many employees coming from local institutions such as Kentucky Wesleyan College and Brescia University.

Despite the changes, his commitment remains unwavering.

“I’ll keep doing it until I get tired,” he said. “But I’m not tired yet.”

For many former club members, White remains a lasting influence. White is especially proud to talk about one young man, in particular — a former club member who later became a police officer in Owensboro.

“That really made my day (to see him again),” he said. “Some of them stop me in the street and say, ‘Mr. Clay!’ We’ll have a little conversation, and I ask them how they’re doing, how their kids are. It makes me feel like I made a difference.”

Boys and Girls Club CEO Steve Winkler said White’s impact on the organization cannot be overstated.

“Clay is the heart and soul of this place,” Winkler said. “He’s been a mentor, a friend, and a guiding presence for so many kids over the years. His dedication and compassion are what make this club feel like home to so many.”

As White continues his work, he looks forward to meeting new children, seeing old faces return, and playing his part in shaping young lives – just as he has done for the past 34 years.

Rooster Booster success driven by innovation, networking, community impact

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

How does a monthly breakfast meeting grow from a handful of business leaders at a Ponderosa Steakhouse to a powerhouse event drawing hundreds each month? For 60 years, Rooster Booster has been more than just coffee and conversation — it’s been a catalyst for major announcements, economic development, and community connections in Owensboro. Today, it stands as one of Kentucky’s most influential chamber gatherings, proving that sometimes, the best ideas start before 8 a.m.

From humble beginnings to a vision for growth

Rooster Booster’s roots trace back to the early 1960s, when executives from Owensboro’s General Electric plant visited a GE facility in Alabama. There, they attended a morning networking event called the Booster Breakfast. It sparked an idea to bring

the concept back to Owensboro. With support from local business leaders at the time including Mayor Waitman Taylor and JR Miller of Green River Electric, the first Rooster Booster was born.

But by the mid-1970s, the event had lost momentum. Meetings at Ponderosa Steakhouse drew dwindling crowds, often consisting of little more than pastries, coffee, and an occasional school choir performance. In 1976, a young David Adkisson joined the Chamber as project manager and was tasked with revitalizing the breakfast.

“We decided to reinvent Rooster Booster,” Adkisson said. “We moved it to the basement of Gabe’s Restaurant and introduced an element of entertainment and newsworthiness. Dr. Don Neel and Martel Wightman performed lighthearted comedy skits about current events in Owensboro, similar to Johnny Carson’s monologues. More importantly, we committed to ensuring that each Rooster Booster included

a major announcement.”

That shift was a gamechanger. Attendance climbed from 50 to 100, then soared to an average of 300 within a decade. For more than 10 years, the event was even broadcast on two AM radio stations.

A forplatform major announcements

One key factor in Rooster Booster’s longevity and success has been its role as a platform for breaking news and community initiatives.

Adkisson recalled a pivotal moment in the early 1980s when William Koch, founder of Holiday World, used the event to introduce the concept of a four-lane highway connecting Owensboro to Lafayette, Indiana. The vision became reality with the completion of the William H. Natcher Bridge and the four-lane U.S. 231, creating a vital transportation link between Owensboro and I-64. Similarly, Rooster Booster has been the launching pad for numerous other initiatives,

and community members to exchange ideas and celebrate progress.

“Our team continues to tweak, adjust, add, and subtract,” said Candance Brake, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO. “We are committed to continuous improvement. As our crowd changes generationally, we need to change as well. Formats and speakers that engaged audiences in the 1980s are different from what works in the 2020s. We have to adapt.”

Recent changes have included a greater emphasis on conversational formats, such as panels and interviews, as well as a commitment to featuring diverse voices from across the community.

Another defining element of Rooster Booster has been its emcees, most notably Kirk Kirkpatrick, who led the event for 37 years before handing the microphone to Chad Benefield in 2014.

including the creation of Owensboro’s community college, the RiverPark Center, and the Owensboro Convention Center. The annual State of the City and State of the County addresses, first introduced in 1989, also originated at the event.

The evolution of Rooster Booster

While Rooster Booster’s format has changed over the years, its core purpose remains: to bring together business leaders, elected officials,

Kirkpatrick’s tenure saw many memorable moments, including a 1978 event featuring then-Senator Wendell Ford at Gabe’s Restaurant and a 2008 appearance by Governor Steve Beshear. At that latter event, Kirkpatrick humorously handed Beshear $1.60 in change, saying Owensboro liked to “pay the tolls” for its speakers. Just months later, Beshear announced the early removal of tolls on the Audubon and Natcher Parkways. Kirkpatrick estimates that he emceed more than 400 Rooster Boosters, sitting directly next to many speakers over the years.

“They all said the same thing: 'How do you get this many people out at 7:30 in the morning?’ And there is no better calling card for Owensboro than when a guest speaker

sees that turnout,” he said. “They go back to Frankfort or wherever they came from, and they'll say, ‘You won’t believe what this city is doing.’”

Benefield said he always admired Kirkpatrick for his commitment to Owensboro.

“I was a huge Kirk fan,” Benefield said. “I love that he was a cheerleader for Owensboro, and I strive to carry that same energy. Rooster Booster isn’t just about business – it’s about celebrating the people who make it happen. Humor, engagement, and energy are key to keeping it fresh and exciting.”

Benefield said he appreciates the commitment to a vari-

ety of voices at Rooster Booster and considers it paramount to the event’s success.

“One thing that people appreciate, at least I hope they do, is that you can come to Rooster Booster and hear a perspective that maybe you haven't heard before from somebody you haven’t met before,” he said. “I feel like that diversity has really served the effort of inviting people to the table who didn’t always feel like they had a seat.”

The future of Rooster Booster

More than just a breakfast meeting, Rooster Booster has become an essential networking event for the Owensboro business community.

“People know that if they go to Rooster Booster, they can catch up on phone calls and emails — in person,” Brake said. “In 90 minutes, you can connect with an incredible crosssection of the community, from CEOs and small business owners to faith-based leaders and tradespeople. It truly is a tapestry of Owensboro.”

The event’s sponsors also play a crucial role, often us-

ing their time to introduce innovative ideas and engage the audience in creative ways. Brake said a long waiting list of businesses eager to sponsor Rooster Booster speaks to its continued value.

As the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce looks to the future, Rooster Booster remains a vital tradition that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.

“Through the years, people have come to expect that going to Rooster Booster keeps them in the loop,” Brake said. “It has long been the venue for major community announcements, new business ventures, and emerging initiatives. From job announcements to festivals and programs, Rooster Booster is where you ‘get the word out,’ and we intend to keep it that way.”

Whether it’s the excitement of a major economic announcement, the humor of an engaging emcee, or simply the opportunity to shake hands with a fellow business leader, Rooster Booster continues to fuel Owensboro’s economic and social engine — one breakfast at a time.

Photos

Cold Case: Missing

evidence, lack of witnesses still a challenge in solving the murder of Terri Howell

By RYAN RICHARDSON

On the evening of July 25, 1980, the quiet rural roads of Knottsville, Kentucky, became the scene of a tragedy that remains unsolved more than four decades later. What started as an apparent house fire turned into a baffling murder mystery that continues to puzzle investigators, family members, and the community. The death of 24-year-old Terri Howell has left behind more questions than answers, with crucial evidence missing and key witnesses fading into history.

The discovery of Terri Howell’s body

At approximately 5 p.m., a volunteer firefighter traveling with his wife and mother-inlaw spotted a house engulfed in flames. He quickly instructed his family to find help while he attempted to enter the burning structure. Through the thick smoke, he saw a body inside but was unable to reach it due to the intensity of the fire.

When firefighters arrived

and extinguished the flames, they found the naked remains of a young woman beneath debris that had been deliberately arranged to fuel the fire. The victim was later identified as Terri Howell, but not until after she’d already been buried as a Jane Doe. The circumstances surrounding her death and the subsequent investigation left more gaps than answers, and her case remains one of the region’s most perplexing cold cases.

Howell’s last known moments

The night before her body was discovered, Howell was last seen with a woman named Janice Hastie. The two were at the Hasty Tasty, a restaurant on East 4th Street in Owensboro, when they encountered a man from Ohio County. Records show that Hastie claimed to know the man, who offered the two young women a ride home around 1 or 2 a.m. Witnesses described the man as a white male with brown hair, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall,

and a slender build.

Once inside the vehicle, the man drove east on U.S. 60, ignoring the women’s protests that he was going the wrong way. He accelerated, and Hastie, in a panic, jumped out of the moving car near Reid Road and walked back to town. Hastie last saw Howell screaming at the driver to stop.

Authorities conducted multiple polygraphs with Hastie, who passed them all. Over the years, her story remained consistent.

Howell’s body was later found in an abandoned house on Lanham Road, an area commonly known as a party spot. Her belongings were discovered scattered — her purse on KY 1389 and her bathing suit top near the house — and beer cans were recovered from the scene. While the purse and bathing suit top were checked for DNA, the results were inconclusive due to degradation over time. Nothing definitive came from the beer cans, which could have belonged to any number of people.

Photo by Jason Tanner

Initial investigation, sudden burial, and missing evidence

At the time of Howell’s death, forensic investigations were far less advanced than they are today. It was also standard practice at the time not to send bodies to a centralized medical examiner. Instead, the autopsy was conducted locally at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home on July 26,1980, by medical examiner Dr. Charles Crumpler and Coroner Mike Everly.

According to the autopsy report, samples and photographs were taken, but none of these records can be found by investigators today. The report included details such as stomach contents, which matched what was reported as her last meal.

The autopsy concluded that Howell had not been sexually assaulted and that her cause of death was likely before the fire began. Without access to preserved evidence, though, modern forensic testing cannot be conducted to verify key details of her death.

Howell’s body was buried in Owensboro Memorial Gardens on July 26, 1980, or possibly the same day of the fire — it’s unclear which based on available records. The quick burial raised suspicions even at the time, especially considering she was interred before she was officially identified, a move today’s investigators call a highly unusual procedure. However, there is no clear evidence of intentional mishandling of the investigation.

Howell’s late mother, Ava Wortheam, unaware of her daughter’s death, filed a missing person report with the Owensboro Police Department after Howell failed to return home. By the time authorities

connected the missing person case to the unidentified remains found in the fire, Howell had already been buried. Howell was identified using dental records and jewelry that was found on the body and identified by Wortheam on July 27, 1980.

Adding to the confusion, the burial was arranged and paid for by an unknown individual, and there is little documentation regarding the transaction. Her obituary, published July 28, 1980, said there was no visitation but there was a graveside service.

The case goes cold

By December 1983, investigative entries ceased, leaving Howell’s case nearly untouched for almost 30 years other than some evidence being sent for testing in 2004. In 2010, Detective Mike Pearre reopened the investigation. Current Sheriff Brad Youngman said Pearre’s work was crucial in advancing the case and is the foundation for how detectives are approaching the investigation today.

Pearre re-interviewed first responders and witnesses. He also interrogated first responders and firemen who had not previously been questioned about the scene. Their reports provided additional details that should have been documented at the time of the crime but were not.

Various leads were pursued, including sketches of potential suspects and reports of a light or pale blue two-door car with round headlights. However, narrowing down vehicles from the 1960s and 1970s proved difficult.

Several individuals were identified as persons of interest. One such individual allegedly told a family member that he knew who killed Howell, but before revealing the name he

was found dead in a river under what today’s investigators say were suspicious circumstances. Another suspect, a convicted murderer, was rumored to be involved but he later died in prison. One suspect even included James Ray Cable, a serial killer who was active in the area at the time.

Within the same geographical radius of Howell’s murder, multiple other bodies were discovered around the same time. Investigators have considered the possibility that these deaths were connected, though no definitive links have been established.

Many suspects and sources have since passed away, and no concrete evidence has been found to support most theories.

Renewed efforts and barriers to breakthroughs

Renewed efforts in 2023 sparked new interest, with forensic specialists reviewing any remaining DNA. Law enforcement techniques have evolved significantly in the past 45 years, and many aspects of the case would have been handled differently with modern forensic science.

The state lab has determined that the samples are too small for effective testing. Law enforcement has also revisited fingerprint evidence, but no significant breakthroughs have been made. Forensic experts and state labs have indicated that exhuming the body would not yield any new results.

No photographs from the crime scene exist, and much of the physical evidence, such as burnt materials, is degraded beyond use.

Another significant issue in the case is the lack of witnesses stepping forward. Today’s investigators say bars and social spaces like the Hasty Tasty are typically full of people who

observe interactions, yet no one from that night has come forward with information. Investigators speculate that fear, distrust of law enforcement, or other factors have prevented potential witnesses from speaking up. Investigators remain hopeful that new witnesses may come forward, particularly as attitudes toward law enforcement and cold cases shift over time.

Armchair detectives and social media discussions have further complicated the case over time as more theories and names have been introduced, sometimes muddying the waters rather than clarifying them. While some public speculation has been helpful, much of it is based on assumptions rather than facts. Unverified claims can divert resources, investigators said, making it harder for law enforcement to focus on concrete leads.

The continued search for justice

More than four decades later, Howell’s case remains one of Owensboro’s most prominent unsolved mysteries. Investigators hope that as forensic science advances and societal attitudes toward cold cases shift, new evidence or witness testimony will emerge.

Family members and local law enforcement continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward, reminding the public that even the smallest detail could be the missing piece in solving the case. Detectives continue to work the case as time permits, though resources remain limited.

The investigation has been likened to assembling a 10,000-piece puzzle with only 150 pieces available. Any new information could prove crucial in piecing together the truth about what happened to Terri Howell.

Unanswered questions

As the investigation continues, many critical questions remain:

Who paid for Howell’s burial, and why was she interred so quickly?

What happened to the evidence collected during her autopsy?

Who was the unidentified driver that picked up Howell and Janice Hastie?

Was her death premeditated, or was it a crime of opportunity?

Could there be any remaining evidence that can be tested with modern forensic methods?

Anyone with information is asked to contact Investigator Jeff Payne at 270-685-8444. Callers can remain anonymous.

What’s

going on?

Owensboro’s can’t-miss events this spring!

High-stakes high school hoops, mouthwatering burgers, toe-tapping bluegrass, theatre magic, flea markets, and more — Owensboro is packed with action this spring. Check out this lineup of upcoming events and mark your calendars for a spring full of entertainment, food, and festivities!

MARCH 3-11

KHSAA 3rd Region Basketball Tournament

OWENSBORO SPORTSCENTER

While most people think of college basketball when it comes to March Madness, area high school teams always put on a show in the 3rd Region Tournament. After a season full of intense battles, the top high school hoops teams are now vying for a 3rd Region crown, which would secure a spot in the state tournament in midMarch.

MARCH 7-15

Owensboro

Burger Week

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Get your taste buds ready, because Burger Week is back in Owensboro. This year’s event will run from March 7-15, showcasing signature burgers from dozens of restaurants and businesses throughout Owensboro-Daviess County. This

event has become a community favorite, as many people enjoy trying the unique takes on burgers while also supporting local establishments.

MARCH 8-9

2025 Owensboro Home Expo

OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

Plan your spring and summer home projects at the Green River Building Industry Association’s Home Expo. Explore over 44,000 square feet of exhibitors showcasing the latest in home design, remodeling, and construction. Show hours are March 8 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and March 9 from 11 a.m.4 p.m.

MARCH 8

Lanham Brothers Jamboree

BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF

FAME & MUSEUM

Enjoy a night of entertainment with the Lanham Brothers Jamboree, hosted by Barry and

Randy Lanham and recorded for broadcast on KET. Special guests include Rick Faris, Wayne Morris, Lucy Jagoe Chaney, Emmie Kate Williams, Mackenzie Bell, and the Footstompin’ Express Cloggers. The show begins at 7 p.m.

MARCH 14-16

Great American Bluegrass Jam

DOWNTOWN OWENSBORO Bluegrass fans, get ready for a weekend of music and fun as the Great American Bluegrass Jam takes over Owensboro. Events include the Kentucky Fried Pickin’ Hotel Jam, Kentucky State Fiddle Championship, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder in concert, and excursions to Green River Distilling Co. and the Bill Monroe Homeplace. Jam sessions will be happening around the clock at the Holiday Inn, and guests can sign up for exclusive excursions celebrating the legacy of bluegrass music.

MARCH 15-16

Owensboro Dance Theatre’s “Willy Wonka & The Golden Ticket”

RIVERPARK CENTER

Step into a world of pure imagination with Owensboro Dance Theatre’s magical production of “Willy Wonka &

The Golden Ticket.” Inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved story, this spectacular performance blends high-quality choreography, stunning visuals, and themes of diversity and inclusion. Perfect for the whole family, this show promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

MARCH 22

Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K

DOWNTOWN OWENSBORO

Join the 5th annual Wendell Foster Half Marathon and 5K, presented by Owensboro Health. This flat and fast race winds through scenic parts of Owensboro, starting and finishing at Smothers Park. Participants will receive a finisher medal, and top competitors will be awarded prize money. Proceeds support Wendell Foster’s mission of empowering people with disabilities.

MARCH 24

Jim Henson’s “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Live!”

RIVERPARK CENTER

Experience the first-ever live touring show of “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock!” Join Gobo, Red, Mokey, Wembley, and Boober Fraggle on an

Great American Bluegrass Jam | Photo by Ryan Richardson

Jim Henson’s “Fraggle Rock: Back To The Rock Live!”

adventure to find the lost Celebration Stone, filled with music, magic, and fun. VIP meet-and-greet packages are available, including photo opportunities and exclusive merchandise.

MARCH

28-30

Owensboro Flea Market

OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

If you love the thrill of discovering unique treasures, hidden gems, or unbeatable bargains, mark your calendar for the grand opening of the Owensboro Flea Market, which will be held four weekends this year. Organizers say the markets will feature more than 250 vendor booths, offering a variety of items, from antiques and collectibles to boutique goods, jewelry, home décor, electronics, and overstock bargains.

APRIL

12-13

Western Kentucky Outdoor Expo

OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

Explore the latest in outdoor gear, camping, hiking, and hunting at the inaugural expo. Event organizers promise top brands, industry experts, and hands-on experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Vendors will showcase RVs, ATVs, mo-

tocross bikes, side-by-sides, camping equipment, fishing and hunting gear, as well as hiking, biking, and boating products.

APRIL 16

“The Cher Show”

RIVERPARK CENTER

Experience the Tony Awardwinning musical “The Cher Show,” celebrating six decades of stardom. Featuring 35 iconic hits, stunning costumes, and three actresses portraying different eras of Cher’s legendary career, this high-energy production will have audiences dancing in the aisles.

APRIL

19

Owensboro Symphony’s “Cosmic Worlds”

RIVERPARK CENTER

Join the Symphony for a cosmic adventure with John William’s music from “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” and Franz Waxman’s “A Place in the Sun: Suite” featuring saxophone legend Kenneth Radnosfsky. The concert, which is the season finale, includes Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” and promises to launch the Symphony into its 60th season.

APRIL

19

Sparky Easter Bone Hunt

BEN HAWES PARK

Why should kids have all the fun? Participants pay a fee for their dogs to hunt for bones and toys. This is an event for dogs of all sizes and a day out at the park for SparKY, a local no-kill rescue. Participants get to take home all the toys and bones they find.

If you’d like to see your event listed in the next Owensboro Times print issue, email us at info@owensborotimes.com.

Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K | Photo by Jason Tanner

Across

1. Residents near Fischer Rd?

6. "Concrete" tree inscription

11. Like regulars at Bruner's 12. Contour takes you all the way here, not Midway

13. Job not needed at Owensboro Racing & Gaming

15. ____ Hacienda

17. Nearby OWB alt, say for 12-Across

18. OMFA content creator

19. Trendy vegetable you may find at Gene's

20. OAC trainers may target these at crunch time

21. Time you can schedule at Ben Hawes

24. __ Ames, 1922 manufacturing company

27. TV show that visited Owensboro in 2009

30. Fictional uncle inspired by Josiah Henson

31. TV show that visited Owensboro in 2016

32. Some pilots pull these at the airshow, informally

33. OFD Engine 1 got equipped with this in 2022

35. Resources such as AMR along with 33-Across

39. Birthstone for Rex Chapman

43. 2024 O'boro Comic & Toy Con. hosted a voice actor from this air-bending show

45. Green River Distillery mash bill item

46. Org. that awarded OCTC's rover 2nd place

47. Tribeca co-founder whose "Public Enemies" film starred Johnny Depp

48. _____ UltraCut: Ultramicrotome used in a KWC science lab

49. Owensboro Times claim about locally owned daily news

50. Business that experienced significant fires in 2015 and 2024

51. Common BBQ fest food

Down

1. One was placed on the hospital in 2007 to create “dual doppler”

2. Some trucks turn this way when exiting I-165 onto U.S. 60

3. Sporty car, say at Champion Mazda

4. What Chad might do to prevent dead air at WBKR

5. Common task to do with Volunteer Owensboro

6. Local electrical company established in 1963

7. Green River or Audubon

8. Enthusiasm, like with a new restaurant

9. Kevin Olusola created a medley of her hits in 2016

10. Late Buffman of 45Down

14. Abbr: Decommissioned OMU power plant

16. 2021 FA5 opening night song: “Who ___ the Dogs Out”

22. Digital option at DCPL

23. Often conducted after tests at Brescia, but before tests at OHRH

24. Cheese often confused with a downtown pizzeria

25. First KY Thespian All State Show: “_____ Friends and Clutter”

26. Spotted so frequently in 2024, OT created a map for them

28. Like near Moseleyville or Curdsville

29. Audio boosters, say at ROMP

33. One way Daviess County Fiscal Court may change an ordinance

34. Frank Miller’s business partner?

35. Preceding time in Stark’s New Fears or Hallows

36. Sisson or Lee

37. GVBA’s $15 membership dues aren’t likely to do this

38. Orange Leaf treat

40. ____ Mall: Sister operation to KBio

41. Where Coast Guard Lane won’t lead you?

42. Churchgoer, but not Bishop Medley for instance

43. Amount of whipped cream Gramps said was on its 45-Across inspired whiskey donut

44. Musician mentioned in Gary Oelze book: ____ Guthrie

45. Abbr: Place with both a Cannon room and Berry room

Scan here for crossword solution

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