Owensboro Living - May / June 2023

EDITOR’S NOTE

Bringing Out the Best in Our Community

Reading over the list of the “Best of Owensboro Living” winners each year always reminds me how lucky we are to live and work here. So many local businesses have such a positive impact on our community – from creating jobs to generating revenue that stays in our city and county and providing our citizens with the goods and services they need. These businesses, along with their owners and employees, form a vital part of the fabric of Owensboro. Because even more than goods and services, they help us create memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s donuts at Rolling Pin or a burger at The Dipper, these businesses have served generations of folks in Owensboro, and eating at these establishments is more than just feeding a craving, it’s creating an experience. And now, we’re lucky to have newcomers with a loyal following, like Gramps and J’s Good Grub, where customers and their families can form new traditions, and get that same familiar feeling of community. So to all of our winners – Congratulations! And thank you for all that you do for the people of Owensboro!

STEVEN WILSON,

EDITOR

steven@owensboroliving.com

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Steven Wilson

PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Libby Johnson

Marlys Mason

Danny May

Kristi McCabe

Laura Murphy

Dana Peveler

Jamie Plain

Jacqueline Russell

Lora Wimsatt

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WHAT I’M READING

Freedom: A Novel by Jonathan Franzen

This novel, by the author of The Corrections, follows the lives of a Minnesota family as they struggle with the changes that come with getting older, looking back on the past, and adapting to the present. The seemingly and once-happy family must deal with the relationships within their own household, overcome individual inner struggles, and navigate tenuous interactions with neighbors, coworkers, and the outside world.

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ROMP SPOTLIGHT: RICKY

SKAGGS

The “Country Boy at Heart” returns to ROMP with his all-star bluegrass band, Kentucky Thunder

BY DANNY MAY

TRENDING

6 BEHIND THE SCENES

A note from our editor.

10 NEWSWORTHY

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

CULTURE

14 ART

Nancy Sterett Martin: Crafting Quality Quilts

15 IN THE KNOW

Your guide to what’s happening in and around Owensboro

18 MUSIC

Natasha Neely: From Owensboro to Music City

LIFESTYLE

80 ACTIVE Pickleball: The Sport that Keeps Growing in Owensboro & Beyond

84 SENIOR LIVING Clearing the Hurdles of Hearing Loss

FLAVOR

104 RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT Kahawa Java: Brewing Success

106 RECIPES Oh, Honey!

BY KRISTI MCCABE

Cargill Acquires Owensboro Grain

BY LAURA MURPHY

We have a winner! Find the Platinum and Gold winning businesses from our 2023 Best Of Owensboro Living voting contest here.

WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH THE GREATER OWENSBORO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

5 things we’re talking about now

2

Owensboro Business Hall of Fame Inductions

Annual Stand Against Child Abuse

The annual Stand Against Child Abuse event was held on April 14 on the Kentucky Wesleyan College front lawn. In addition to ofering activities for children, the event is designed to educate the community on the signs of child abuse and neglect in addition to how to prevent and report it. There were also a wide range of resource booths to inform families of services in the community.

On April 13, the late Billy Joe Miles (19392018), Don Penn Moore III, and Tommy Thompson were inducted Thursday into the Owensboro Business Hall of Fame. Each was recognized for their outstanding civic and business contributions to the Owensboro area and recognized for their business excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, courageous thinking and action, inspiring leadership, community impact, and service as a role model.

Photo by RYAN RICHARDSON

Gramps Unveils Catering Truck

Just shy of their 2-year anniversary, Gramps Cofee and Donuts is taking their signature donuts on the road this summer with a new catering truck, which they have styled to look like a vintage milk van. In addition to corporate events, weddings, and parties, they plan to be out in the community at events throughout the summer.

Veteran Gifted with Vehicle

U.S. Army Specialist Nicolas Koonce served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, but debilitating injuries led him to medically retire from the military in 2012. In honor of his service, and after his family was recently left with no vehicle, Freedom Alliance and U.S. Bank partnered to present Koonce with a new payment-free Jeep Cherokee provided by Jerry Ray Davis Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. The ceremony took place at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum.

Miss Earth USA Visits MLES

Lexington native Danielle Mullins won the Miss Earth Kentucky pageant at the end of 2022, then was crowned Miss Earth USA in January. On April 13, she visited Meadow Lands Elementary School to speak with members of a club called Girls Group, speaking about ways to take care of the Earth as well as the importance of never giving up.

Photo by RYAN RICHARDSON

Photo by JOSH KELLY

Photo by JOSH KELLY

ART: NANCY STERETT MARTIN— CRAFTING QUALITY QUILTS p. 14

IN THE KNOW: 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR p. 15

MUSIC: NATASHA NEELY—FROM OWENSBORO TO MUSIC CITY p. 16

CULTURE

Photo by JAMIE PLAIN

Crafting Quality Quilts A LABOR OF

LOVE FOR NANCY STERETT MARTIN

Written by JACQUELINE RUSSELL // Photos by JAMIE PLAIN

When you think of quilts, you probably envision traditional patchwork quilts made from various fabric pieces — decorative but useful on a chilly night and often passed down through generations of families. Nancy Sterett Martin is an award-winning quiltmaker, but her creations are not your grandmother’s quilts.

Using an original technique, Nancy paints on silk and then quilts in the texture to create a unique piece of artwork.

She started quilting around 15 years ago, after attending a quilt show in Paducah. “I thought, boy, these are really

artistic, and I’d like to do something like this,” she said. Her grandmother taught her to sew when she was nine, and after taking home-ec classes, she found she enjoyed sewing as a creative outlet. This eventually led to her becoming an interior designer, but not before attending engineering school and working for her father at Sterett Crane & Rigging as a secretary.

Her understanding of color, drawing talent and ability to read blueprints gave her the perfect skill set to create her highly artistic quilts. She started with one traditional quilt, but it just wasn’t to her taste, she said.

“Who wants to cut up fabric into a million pieces and then sew it all back together?” Nancy said with a laugh.

That was when she got the idea to paint freehand and apply that to quilts, and she learned that no one else was painting full-sized quilts but instead were painting smaller pieces and putting them onto quilts.

Knowing she wanted to paint on silk, she befriended a renowned silk painter from Washington, and spent several days with her, learning and experimenting.

“So, I started painting quilts,” she said. “Within the frst year, when I started doing that about back in 2015, I made two

quilts for entry (in competition), and both of them were accepted. Then they traveled around the United States and the world.”

Nancy said she entered seven or eight quilt shows a year because she enjoyed the competition and learning new things. In 2015, one quilt of a heron won seven frstplace awards in quilt shows, and others have won awards and been added to the permanent collection at the quilt museum in Paducah. She’s entered approximately 30 quilts into competitions, but has made nearly 500, and given them to family and friends.

Making each of those quilts is a long process. Nancy begins by sketching her inspiration onto a letter-size piece of paper and then uses a computer program to enlarge the pattern and print it out. After painting, she then has to quilt the piece. Painting one quilt can take up to 90 hours, while quilting is another 500 hours.

“Once I’m done with a quilt, I’m tired of it,” she said. “On to the next. The best quilt, in my mind, is the one I’m going to work on next.”

It takes all of those hours to add the incredible detail she includes in each piece. Working mainly with images of animals, Nancy examines and studies every fne detail. Sometimes she works from photographs, blowing them up and using a magnifying glass to fgure out how to quilt them. “I quilt what I see,” she said. “I just quilt and paint what I actually see.”

The hours that pass as she’s making art are wellspent for Nancy, who has used her time lately on resin work and drawing, but occasionally will crochet or crossstitch when she isn’t quilting.

“I like doing things with my hands,” she said. “I think just sitting and not doing anything or watching TV is a waste of time. I love creating and I do this just to give stuf away.” OL

IN THE KNOW

9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR

SUTTON ELEMENTARY

DERBY DAY 5K

MAY 6 @ OHS RASH STADIUM

Sutton’s primary goal with this event is to strengthen family relationships in the school community and to promote a healthier lifestyle for students and their families. This is a 5K timed road race, with post-race snacks and age group awards given on the 50-yard line of the OHS football field.

MUSIC STUDIOS PRESENTS

1 2 3

“IT’S AYE VIBE – VOLUME II”

MAY 7 @ RIVERPARK CENTER

This will be a show full of dance, excitement, and entertainment. Musick Studios will have over 65 performances from students in Owensboro and many surrounding counties. Come and see this concert-feel show with over 350 performers. Two performances will take place at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.

BBQ & BARRELS

MAY 12-13 @ DOWNTOWN OWENSBORO

BBQ & Barrels represents the culmination of 45 years of a cultural tradition in Owensboro and Daviess County. It is the celebration of our past, our present, and our future, bringing together two of Owensboro’s greatest traditions – authentic, unparalleled Owensboro barbecue and historic Kentucky bourbon. Guests will love the familiarity of the traditional festival, including the Backyard BBQ Cooko , church cooking teams, live music, carnival rides, and more barbecue vendors than you have ever seen in downtown Owensboro- all open to the general public!

IN THE KNOW

From Owensboro to Music City

NATASHA NEELY SHINES AS DOLLY IMPERSONATOR

Written by JACQUELINE RUSSELL

When Natasha Neely was just three years old, her parents signed her up to sing at open mic night at Owensboro’s legendary Goldie’s Best Little Opryhouse. She’s been shining on stage ever since.

Today, Natasha thrives in the Nashville music scene — whether that means being a country singer with her band at venues around Music City, or impersonating Dolly Parton at corporate events. Still, she looks back fondly on the Owensboro stage, where she got her start.

Before Goldie’s closed in 2008, Natasha was a part of the regular cast every Friday and Saturday night. For years after the music venue closed, she returned to perform at Goldie’s New Year’s Eve shows at the RiverPark Center.

“That’s where I got a lot of my experience performing, and found my love for country music,” Natasha said. “In addition to Goldie’s, I was very active in the community, performing for diferent events and singing at church on

9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR

JOSH TURNER

MAY 18 @ RIVERPARK CENTER

With his deep voice, Josh Turner has sold more than six and a half million records, reached 4.8 billion global streams, and has become a favorite and unforgettable hitmaker on country radio. Join him for a concert at the RiverPark Center, where you’re sure to be entertained.

SISTER SADIE

4 5 6

MAY 18 @ BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

Lost River Sessions, the Emmy award-winning television, concert and radio series launched by WKU PBS and WKU Public Radio, is coming to the Hall of Fame. The series explores the music scene from the roots up by featuring musical talents in the folk, bluegrass and Americana genres performing intimate live sets in various iconic venues across southcentral Kentucky. The headliner of the night, Sister Sadie, is a wildfire: raging hot bluegrass combined with breathtaking instrumental drive and awe-inspiring vocals.

SOAPBOX DERBY RACING

MAY 20 @ BEN HAWES PARK

May 20-21 is a Rally Race Weekend where racers from around the area and surrounding states will be competing to earn points to attend the All-American Race in Akron. Racers will be recognized and there will be games and other activities for them and their families. June 10th will be the Local Race where kids will compete to earn a trip to the All-American Race in Akron.

the praise team at Owensboro Christian Church. But Goldie’s was kind of the main reason for it all.”

To continue fostering her love of music and the music industry, she headed to Belmont University, where she secured a degree in music business and facilitated many professional connections that have continued to help her through the years.

Her frst professional job outside of Owensboro was singing at Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s theme park in the Smoky Mountains.

“I loved the cast, and all of the material on the show was genuine, traditional country music like I grew up singing,” Natasha said. “It was just the coolest opportunity.”

It was also where visitors would notice that Natasha resembled the park’s namesake.

“People would come up to me at meet and greet. And they would say, ‘Are you related to Dolly? You look like her.’ And sometimes, I would joke around and say, ‘Oh, I’m her niece,’” she said.

A talent agent in Nashville asked if she’d be interested in portraying Dolly for shows they booked for corporate entertainment — a growing industry in a city full of conferences and events.

“Who wouldn’t want to be Dolly?” Natasha said.

That was 12 years ago, and she’s been embodying the larger-than-life country star ever since.

“When I started doing this, I was

doing it three or fve times a year,” she said. “And now I’m doing it anywhere from three to six times a week. I think the corporate events industry is booming, and Dolly is more popular than ever.”

She even had the opportunity to meet Dolly after singing on a demo session for a song a friend wrote. The song was

a half later, the producer made her dream come true.

He arranged for Natasha and her husband to be at a studio early one morning to catch the star coming into work.

“In walks Dolly, and I saw her blond hair bopping in the door,” Natasha said. “I was like, in my mind, ‘She’s really here. This is actually happening.’”

“I told her that I was one of her Dollywood girls, that we have a lot of mutual friends and people that we know and love, and that I’ve been impersonating her for over a decade,” Natasha said. “She put her hand on her hip and said, ‘Well, you look like family!’”

After chatting for a few minutes and taking photos, Dolly told her, “Good luck with your career — whether it’s being me or being you!”

Natasha keeps that blessing in mind, as she not only impersonates Dolly in a 90-minute show full of costume changes and her biggest hits, but also as her own performer with the Natasha Neely Band, living out her country music dreams.

a tribute to Dolly, and the songwriter had a connection to Dolly’s producer. When the producer and Natasha met, she shared with him that she’d worked at Dollywood, had met several of Dolly’s family members and was even friends with her wardrobe assistant, but had never been able to meet Dolly. A year and

“My frst passion is performing as myself as a country singer, just like I’ve done from the time I was a little girl in Owensboro,” Natasha said. “That is my passion, but being Dolly has brought so many unique opportunities and very cool, memorable experiences that I will talk about for the rest of my life.”

Follow along with her career at NatashaNeely.com. OL

SUMMER SALUTE FEATURING ROCKAPELLA

JUNE 2 @ RIVERPARK CENTER

Summer Salute returns on Friday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at McConnell Plaza, featuring special guest Rockapella. This talented group will perform a wide array of songs from Shambala, to Philadelphia Freedom and Rock the Boat.

Rockapella achieved national television fame in the early ’90s on the hit PBS show Where in the World is Carmen San Diego? Since then, they have toured the globe and provided a funky powerful soundtrack to several generations of vocal music fans.

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

9 7 8

JUNE 10-11 @ THE COTTAGE FARM STAND

Join your friends at the Cottage Farm Stand for this year’s annual Strawberry Festival. Come out and support area producers and artisans, and enjoy various vendors and plenty of strawberry-flavored food and treats. The entry fee is $10 per car.

THEATRE ARTS ACADEMY

JUNE 12-16 AND JUNE 19-23 @ RIVERPARK CENTER

Theatre Arts Academy is a longterm educational experience that dives deeper into technical theatre, acting styles, and playwrighting opportunities. Junior Academy is for ages 6-9, and will be held June 12-16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. The cost is $125. Senior Academy, for ages 10-18, will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from June 19-23 and June 26-30.

ROMP SPOTLIGHT:

Ricky Skaggs

THE “COUNTRY BOY AT HEART” RETURNS TO ROMP WITH HIS ALL-STAR BLUEGRASS BAND, KENTUCKY THUNDER

Written by DANNY MAY

In his autobiography, Kentucky Traveler, Ricky Skaggs recounts the story of meeting the father of bluegrass music, Bill Monroe, as a young boy when Mr. Monroe played in nearby Martha, KY. At the encouragement of neighbors in the crowd, Monroe invited “Little Ricky Skaggs” to join him on stage. Since then, the 2018 Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame inductee has traveled all over the world playing bluegrass music, and along the way traveled up the country music charts with a string of hits in the 1980s. This summer, Ricky travels back to Owensboro to headline ROMP’s Friday Night lineup on June 23.

Fans of Skaggs’ country music catalog may not realize that Ricky has deep roots in bluegrass music, and has even played alongside and learned from many of the frst-generation pioneers, including Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley. After decades in the business, the 15-time Grammy Award winner continues to do his part to lead the recent roots revival in music, drawing from a life dedicated to playing music that his website describes as “fed by the soul and felt by the heart”.

Born in the eastern Kentucky town of Cordell, Ricky’s talent for music was recognized before he was school aged. His father bought Ricky a mandolin at age 5 after he heard Ricky harmonizing with his mother as he was playing in the next room. Barely a year later, after learning to switch chords, Ricky was called on stage with Bill Monroe. The next year, at age 7, the child prodigy played with Flatt & Scruggs on their TV show, earning his frst paycheck as a musician.

As a teenager, Skaggs played music with Keith Whitley (who later had several country hits of his own) and the two were invited to join bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley’s band. A short while later, Ricky played on JD Crowe and the New South’s debut album. In the late 70s, he set his sights on country music and jumped on the opportunity to sing harmony and play fddle in Emmylou Harris’ band.

With that experience, Skaggs branched out on his own and charted twelve #1 country hits in the 1980s, became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1982, won the top Country Music Association (CMA) honor of “Entertainer of the Year” in 1985, and collected 4 Grammys and 8 CMA awards during his country career.

But when his recording contract ended in 1997, Skaggs settled back

into bluegrass music, started his own record label (Skaggs Family Records), and began breaking bluegrass sales records.

The Grammys kept coming. Even with all those accolades, 2018 was certainly a milestone year for Skaggs. In the same calendar year, Skaggs was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, and the National Fiddler Hall of fame. 2018 also happened to be his most recent appearance at ROMP. He and his band, Kentucky Thunder, are now considered one of the most sought-after live performers in bluegrass, roots, and mountain music.

Ricky graciously took time to talk with Owensboro Living about his life in music, what he’s most looking forward to in 2023, and what fans can expect at his return to ROMP this June.

OL: You’ve been to Owensboro several times. Do you have any favorite memories of Owensboro?

RS: Sure. Back in my country days we played in Owensboro quite a bit. I

remember playing the Executive Inn several times. Then, when I transitioned back to bluegrass, we’d come and play the bluegrass version of those country radio songs and people would still enjoy them. Like you said, we played ROMP in 2018 with Kentucky Thunder. So yeah, I’ve got several great memories of Owensboro.

OL: Before we talk about ROMP, what are you most looking forward to in 2023?

RS: The thing that’s on my mind right now is renovating our studio. For years it’s been the place where I record, but other artists can also book it and record there. It’s a full-fedged working studio, and this renovation should be fnished by summer. I’m really excited about that.

I’m also very much looking forward to the shows we’ve got coming up this year. I always say, and it’s true, that this is the best band we’ve ever had. It’s a joy to play with them. I feel like I’m the weakest link in the chain because these guys are just amazing. Some of them are 30 years younger than me. It’s such a thrill to have a great

band to depend on and travel with. They’re amazing musicians and people love hearing what they do.

OL: Is there anything new that fans can expect at this year’s ROMP performance?

RS: We’ve got some new members in the band that weren’t with us in 2018. Mike Rogers is our new harmony singer. Gavin Kelso is our new bass player. We have a new fddle player too, Billy Contreras. He’s so amazing. Billy is the most unique fddle player I’ve ever heard. He never plays a song the same way twice. When he starts a solo it’s just amazing. I love the energy and the fre he brings to this band. The other guys (Russ Carson - banjo, Jake Workman - lead guitar, Dennis Parker - baritone vocals, guitar) are playing great like they always have. We have twin fddles in the band again, which is nice.

OL: What do you love about playing festivals like ROMP?

RS: We love playing for any crowd, but the bigger the crowd the better, so these

festivals are a lot of fun. We’re actually playing quite a few festivals this year that are not bluegrass festivals. Railbird at Keeneland in Lexington, for example. We’ve got theaters and big rooms on our schedule, too. We love the diference between the indoor and outdoor shows. Some nights we’ll be outside in the rain or cold and be wishing we were inside. But other times we’ll be in a smaller venue inside and wish we could be outside. I’m still excited about music and I’m always excited to play. I feel like people need music now more than ever, having gone through the pandemic. People are beginning to think it’s okay to get out. I believe music is something God gives us to enjoy. Music is a language that God gave us, but it’s also a gift that can make people feel joy. Music comes out of your heart, your mind, your soul. So, we’re purposeful to play uplifting music. My purpose is to make people have a good time and leave feeling uplifted. You wanna give them their money’s worth. That’s another reason we’re doing this, and why we love it. Music has a good, lasting efect. It brings joy and peace and happiness to

your heart. And another thing, we hope families can bring their kids with them to our shows because they’ll never have to worry that we might say something nasty on stage.

OL: So if someone has followed your whole career, or even saw you at ROMP 2018, there’s still something new to enjoy? Same energy, diferent set list?

RS: I think the band is to a place where we switch it up show to show, but we have our staples we do every show, too. I’ve come to realize that we can take some of the “country” songs and do them our bluegrass way with long solos trading from acoustic guitar, to fddle, to mandolin. Sometimes after Billy gets done, I’ll step up before I sing the next verse and start the circle back again and we’ll do another round of solos. We love doing things like that to mix it up and keep it interesting. It’s so much fun.

I’ve written a lot of instrumental pieces the last couple years so we’ll defnitely be throwing in some new instrumentals when we come back up to Owensboro. I’m always glad to get a new instrumental idea. It’s always a gift. Sometimes they pop into my head frst thing in the morning when I’m in between sleep and awake and I’ll hear a melody. So I’ll try to grab a mandolin and put it in my iPhone real quick until I can get in the studio later. Ideas come that way sometimes.

Some of the arrangements we do now with those early “country” hits I actually like better than the radio versions. We love playing Highway 40 Blues with this band. We gotta do some of the hits that people want to hear that were popular back in the 80s and early 90s. But then we’ll do some classics and standards. We try to cover the Mount Rushmore of bluegrass: Mr. Monroe, Stanley Brothers, Flatt & Scruggs.

OL: Which is cool coming from you because you played with those guys in your early days. Many of the younger artists on the ROMP lineup discover the frst-generation pioneers of bluegrass and go back and study them, but you played with them.

RS: Yeah, I’d say I’m the frst-and-a-half generation. [Laughs] It still amazes me to look back where I’ve come from - being able to play with Mr. Monroe and learn from him, play with him, and end up being friends with him is amazing. Then to be able to play with Carter Stanley before he passed and Ralph for several years. I met Earl Scruggs when I was 7 when we went to see the Grand Ole Opry. He heard me play and invited me to audition for their television show. That was an amazing thing to play with all those people and still go on and play with Country Gentlemen, JD Crowe, Emmylou Harris, Jerry Douglas, Tony Rice.

Then, after that, I started feeling like I wanted the chance to play and sing. Emmylou gave me that chance; I played fddle for her and sang, too. Then I wanted the experience of leading my own band, so that’s when I went out on my own and was fortunate how that ended up.

We’re very excited about coming back to ROMP. It’s going to be a great time and we can’t wait to come play again! OL

AWARDS:

National Medal of Arts Recipient – 2020

AMA Lifetime Achievement Award (Americana Music Association)

15 Grammy Awards

13 IBMA Awards (International Bluegrass Music Association)

8 CMA Awards (Country Music Association)

9 ACM Awards (Academy of Country Music)

2 GMA Dove Awards (Gospel Music Association)

HALLS OF FAME:

Country Music Hall of Fame (2018)

Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (2018)

National Fiddler Hall of Fame (2018)

Musicians Hall of Fame (2016)

Kentucky Music Hall of Fame (2004)

Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame (2012)

NUMBER ONES:

11 - #1 Country Singles

4 - #1 Country Albums

7 - #1 Bluegrass Albums

Miles Sees Bright Future for the Bluegrass

Written by KRISTI MCCABE

Raised on a farm in western Kentucky, Representative Suzanne Miles (R- Majority Caucus Chair), learned the value of hard work and a love for Kentucky at an early age.  A passion for the people and traditions of the bluegrass state led her to Frankfort, and since her election in 2014, she has worked hard to promote the interests of her fellow Owensboroans.

“I’ve always been in customer service in one way or another,” Miles remarked.  “Public service is just an extension of that.  As a public servant, my primary role is to help others navigate government agencies and processes.”

Since taking ofce, Miles has brought a renewed focus to the “small things” that are the very fabric of our community.

“I’ve always been of the mindset that even the concern of just a few

citizens afects everyone,” Rep. Miles remarked.  “An example is a fooding and infrastructure issue that was occurring on parts of Highway 60

to get through, homes were being damaged, and people would become stranded.  There had been plans for a long-standing road project that had been overlooked for years.  We ended up raising portions of the road to prevent the fooding.”

Another key issue Miles has led the way in addressing is Kentucky’s shortage of healthcare workers, especially post-COVID.

Miles sponsored HB 751, which would create a regional pilot program that includes a hands-on training facility that services 18 western Kentucky counties.  The bill would establish the Commonwealth West Healthcare Workforce Innovation Center (CWHWIC) in Owensboro.

and afecting Henderson, Union and Daviess counties.  When fooding would occur, it would become impossible for emergency vehicles

“I have been thankful for the opportunity to collaborate on this,” said Miles.  “Owensboro Health has been an amazing partner and resource.  Dr. Scott Williams with OCTCS has testifed in front of a

committee this session with updates, and will continue to update the general assembly with full implementation.”

Miles continued, “This collaboration is not limited to, but includes multiple high schools, public and private higher education institutions, and healthcare industry providers. When fully implemented, I’m confdent this will be a model that can be used all across diferent regions for Kentucky and the nation.”

Making our community safer for the vulnerable has also been a top priority for lawmakers recently, and Representative Miles has taken the lead on this front.

In 2020, Miles fled House Bill 2, which would close a loophole in how human trafcking ofenders are treated in relation to the sex ofender registry.

“Like most legislation, you stumble upon something that needs attention,” said Miles.  “I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with the staf of the attorney general’s ofce and the judiciary chair of the House.  There were some gaps between state and federal laws that enable predators to harm vulnerable citizens of Kentucky.  The more I have learned about human trafcking, the more I realize that most people may not even realize it is happening.”

Miles stressed the importance of education and awareness.

“With this and other legislation, the attorney general’s staf is conducting phenomenal training across Kentucky and in conjunction with other states.  The week after that law went into efect, a KSP trooper called and told me they had made their frst arrest under the new law.  This law is making our community safer.”

Looking forward, Representative Miles believes Kentucky is on track to be more competitive economically with zero state income tax.

“We have made record investments in education,” noted Miles.  “Solid infrastructure, safe communities, business-friendly atmosphere, quality access to education and top-notch healthcare all contribute to a great vision for Owensboro/Daviess County.”

Miles continued, “Personally, it is a tremendous honor, privilege and responsibility to represent the community. My focus is and always has been to fnd a common ground for the greater good.”

Like others in our community, Rep. Suzanne Miles knows what lies at the heart of Owensboro’s appeal.

“Lots of barbecue and bluegrass music in our future!” said Miles.  “And planning for our next big thing, whatever that may be.   Owensboro is a community that knows how to honor its heritage while looking to the future, and I’m honored to be a part of that.” OL

Continuing a Commitment to Community: CARGILL ACQUIRES OWENSBORO GRAIN

Written by LAURA MURPHY // Photo by JOSH MURPHY

Cargill, Incorporated, a privatelyheld corporation based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, acquired Owensboro Grain Company (OGC) in late 2022. After the addition to its North American agricultural supply chain business, they have confdence that Owensboro is a perfect ft.

Founded in 1865, Cargill is the largest privately-held corporation in the United States in terms of revenue.

The global food corporation is proud to hold a solid position in the industry.

As the parent company acquired Owensboro Grain, one thing did not change— the commitment to being a family-owned business that gives back to the community.

Leading the integration work is Don Camden of Cargill. With 40 years of experience, Camden says with confdence that Owensboro Grain is a

perfect ft.

“Our values match up very closely, taking care of people and being involved in the community,” Camden said.

Appreciating the rich tradition of excellence at Owensboro Grain, Cargill upholds the same values that customers have come to expect from OGC.

“We have a lot of customers that

both of us did business within the past. Culturally, we are a familyowned company, much larger scale, but still driven by family,” Camden said.

The addition of Owensboro Grain Company also lines up with the objective of modernizing and increasing their capacity across the North American oil seeds network.

“Owensboro Grain and Cargill have had a business relationship for a long time—we have known the organization very well, and John Wright, specifcally, for a number of years,” Camden said.

A lot has changed in terms of production since Owensboro Grain opened in 1906. The ffth-generation company started as a small grain merchant, and evolved through the years to a fully-integrated soy processing facility.

As far as what makes Owensboro a perfect ft for the expanding industry of Cargill, the company has upheld years of excellence.

“We will keep the entity, Owensboro Grain,” Camden said. The employees are Cargill employees, but the farmers are still doing business with Owensboro Grain.”

While Camden did business locally in the early 2000’s, he has been in Owensboro every other weekend during the integration, and can sense the value of community here.

“I traveled quite a bit over the last few years. I have enjoyed meeting people— that’s the best aspect of the business,” Camden said.

As the demand for renewable resources continues to increase, the industry will keep growing.

“Business has changed

immensely—it’s become a global business. We are seeing an increase in the amount of soybean crushing for renewable fuel.”

Under Cargill, OGC will maintain dependable relationships with customers both locally and nationwide.

“They’ve always had a great reputation in terms of as a customer we have bought from and with farmers. They had a good reputation we have always respected and appreciated,” Camden said.

Not only did Cargill fnd value in the community itself, Camden says they have been impressed by the employees who help run the business.

“They have a great group of people operating the plant. They have been very accommodating—they are willing to learn from us and us from them. It’s a good match.” OL

BEST RESTAURANT PLATINUM WINNER

Lure Seafood and Grille

Last year’s winner for Best Brunch and Best Patio Dining, Lure takes home the crown this year for Best Restaurant. Lure Seafood & Grille ofers a made-from-scratch lunch and dinner menu complemented by the freshest ingredients, and a comfortable ambiance suitable for any event.

GOLD WINNER

Colby's Fine Foods & Spirits

A downtown Owensboro staple for more than 30 years, Colby’s is a great spot for lunch with friends or dinner with a date. With a dining atmosphere that is both pleasantly casual and intimate, Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits has provided the highest quality seasonal dishes using aged meats and fresh produce with a frst-class wine selection.

BEST SANDWICH PLATINUM WINNER

J's Good Grub

In 2022, our readers named J’s Good Grub the Best Food Truck in town. This year, their chicken and wafe sandwich, along with their spicy chicken sandwich, are handsdown Owensboro’s favorites.

GOLD WINNER

Great Harvest

A perennial favorite in this category, Great Harvest Bread Co. ofers sandwiches on their made-from-scratch bread in two Owensboro locations: 3211 Frederica, and 4431 Spring Hill Drive in Lake Forest Town Center on 54.

BEST BRUNCH PLATINUM WINNER

Lure Seafood and Grille

If you’re in the mood for a weekend brunch, you can’t go wrong at Lure. You’ll fnd favorites like chicken & grits and steak & eggs, or even go outside the box with fresh oysters. And don’t forget a Bloody Mary or Mimosa!

GOLD WINNER

Famous Bistro

Take a stroll downtown on Saturday morning, and pop into the Bistro for brunch from 10am-1pm. House specialties include Bistro Eggs Benedict, served with asparagus and rosemary potatoes, and The Sunrise, a biscuit with shaved ribeye, onion, fried eggs, and American cheese.

BEST PIZZA PLATINUM WINNER

Peezo's Pizza

For the second year in a row, our readers voted Peezo’s as Owensboro’s best pizza. Last year, they were the new pizza place in town. Now they’ve cemented their spot at the top with their phenomenal pies.

Fetta Specialty Pizza & Spirits

Located on the Riverfront, Fetta has become a downtown mainstay. You can’t go wrong with the Smothers Park Meat Special, or try the Mashed Potato, Bacon & Scallion pizza if you’re feeling adventurous.

GOLD WINNER

BEST BURGER PLATINUM WINNER

J's Good Grub

Not to be outdone by their chicken sandwiches, J’s also serves up Owensboro Living’s Best Burger. Try one with their Cajun fries for a meal that will have you searching out the famous food truck.

GOLD WINNER

Big Dipper

You can never go wrong with a burger from The Big Dipper. Their menu and friendly service keep local customers coming back, and it’s always a favorite stop for out-of-town visitors.

BEST VEGGIE BURGER PLATINUM WINNER

Gene's Health Food

Gene’s takes the award for Best Veggie Burger once again, and once you taste it, you’ll know why. Gene’s has been family owned and operated in Owensboro for 41 years. Proudly and thoughtfully bringing you the best in supplements, organic food and healthy lifestyle information.

GOLD WINNER

J's Good Grub

You may not expect it from a place with awards for best sandwich, burger, and wings, but J’s Good Grub is also the Gold Winner for their delicious veggie burger. They truly have something for everyone.

BEST DONUTS PLATINUM WINNER Rolling Pin Pastry Shop

Since the inception of Owensboro Living’s “Best Of,” Rolling Pin has held on to the top spot for the city’s best donuts. Try their delicious long johns, or more than 30 other kinds of donuts and pastries, made fresh for you daily.

GOLD WINNER

Gramp's Coffee & Donuts

Their name says it all. In addition to their platinum-winning cofee, Gramps wins gold for their donuts. Each one has a unique topping paired with a light, crisp texture on the outside and a faky, layered bite on the inside.

MEXICAN FOOD PLATINUM WINNER

Real Hacienda

The Ortiz family serves up favorite family recipes carried on through generations in two Owensboro locations: Frederica & Southtown, and Highland Pointe on 54. Chimichangas, Armando’s pizza, and arroz con pollo are just a few of their tasty dishes.

GOLD WINNER

Papa Grande

With two locations in Owensboro, Papa Grande delights customers with their abundant menu of favorful Mexican oferings. And their house-made guacamole, prepared at your table, is defnitely a favorite.

BEST WINGS PLATINUM WINNER

Beef O'Brady's

Serving Owensboro great burgers, wings, sandwiches & more, along with the best TVs & friendly service for 17 years! Locally owned & operated by Barry & Stacy Bratcher since 2006.

GOLD WINNER J's Good Grub

With their Gold award for Best Wings, this marks the food truck’s third award in this year’s contest. Their famous wing favors include bufalo, honey BBQ, mango habanero and Jamaican jerk.

BEST FOOD TRUCK

PLATINUM WINNER

J's Good Grub

Rounding out their fve selections this year is J’s Good Grub’s Platinum award as Owensboro’s best food truck. Our readers clearly know good food when they taste it, and J’s may need a new truck just to haul around all of their trophies. Follow their Facebook page for the daily location of their craveable dishes.

GOLD WINNER

Lure Smoke Shack

Most people know Lure for their fresh seafood on the Riverfront. But Lure’s Smoke Shack delivers the same commitment to quality and service on the go. From mouthwatering pork butts to burnt ends, just follow your nose (or their Facebook page) to track down the truck.

BEST SEAFOOD

PLATINUM WINNER

Lure

From high-quality ocean fsh to shellfsh classics, you’ll fnd it at Lure. Try the Lobster Béarnaise, which tops grilled cold-water lobster tails with béarnaise sauce, a traditional French sauce similar to hollandaise, but with layers of sweet tarragon favor.

GOLD WINNER Red Lobster

Located at 3410 Frederica, Owensboro’s Red Lobster has been serving seafood favorites to the city for years. Their American seafood standards, paired with their famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits, keep loyal customers coming back.

BEST BARBECUE

PLATINUM WINNER

Old Hickory Bar-B-Que

Six generations of quality bar-b-que. Local people are what’s most important to Old Hickory. Quality and service are what drive them every day, and they strive to be the best. For those returning home and tourists alike, no stop to Owensboro is complete without a trip to Old Hickory.

GOLD WINNER

Moonlite Bar-B-Q

Since 1963, they cook in the old- fashioned Kentucky tradition. They place meats personally selected for quality in their custom-built hickory fred pits and cook them slow and long, giving them that distinctive hickory favor.

BEST CAKE/COOKIES

PLATINUM WINNER

Becca Bakes

Becca Bakes is a local custom bakery with a wide variety of baked goods, including cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies and more! Visit BeccaBakes4u.com to see their latest creations and fnd out how they can make your next celebration extra sweet.

GOLD WINNER

Molly's Mixins

Molly’s Mixins ofers half-pound gourmet cookies in many diferent varieties/favors, and is here to ofer you a safe space to indulge your sweet tooth! She believes the world is her mixing bowl, and is on a mission to leave it a little bit sweeter than she found it.

BEST PATIO DINING

PLATINUM WINNER

Lure Seafood and Grille

In the local restaurant world, there may be no better view of the Ohio River and downtown Owensboro than the view from Lure’s patio. Paired with live music, cold drinks and delicious seafood, the Lure patio is a terrifc spot for lunch or dinner outdoors.

GOLD WINNER

The Famous Bistro

The Skiadis family has clearly perfected the art of outdoor dining. Like Lure, Famous Bistro is known as a fantastic spot to grab a delicious lunch or dinner on the sidewalk, with plenty of seating on Allen Street and Second Street.

BEST COFFEE

PLATINUM WINNER

Gramp's Coffee & Donuts

Gramps is once again the Platinum winner for Best Cofee. They’ve only been on the corner of 4th and Frederica for two years, but they’ve quickly become a downtown staple. By creating uniquely crafted cofee drinks, this local shop looks to bring joy to each person who enters the doors for years to come.

GOLD WINNER

The Creme

Coffee House

At the Creme Cofee House, you’ll fnd a great cup of java, a friendly smile and a quaint spot to hang out downtown. Try their baked goods, too.

BEST BREAKFAST PLATINUM WINNER Dee's Diner

If you’re looking for a hearty, southern breakfast, look no further than Dee’s Diner. But be sure to bring your appetite – their pancakes and omelets are the biggest in town.

GOLD WINNER Ole South Bar-B-Q

Their breakfast bufet will never leave you wanting, but you’ll defnitely want to come back for more. With a huge selection of eggs, bacon, potatoes, fruit, and even barbeque, customers always leave full and happy.

BE WELL

BEST URGENT CARE

PLATINUM WINNER

Gateway Urgent Care

Gateway Urgent Care has served the Owensboro community for over 10 years. They thank their patients for continuing to choose Gateway Urgent Care as a top choice for care in Owensboro. They hope to diligently serve you and your families for many more years to come. Visit them anytime Monday-Saturday, 7am-7pm or visit mercyurgentcare.com.

GOLD WINNER

Springs Urgent Care

Springs Urgent Care is your hometown medical team. They take the time to get to know their patients while also being expeditious. They ofer an on-site lab and x-ray capabilities, as well as complete wound care.

BEST

PHARMACY

PLATINUM WINNER

Bluegrass Apothecary

Formerly Nation’s Medicines on KY 54, Bluegrass Apothecary, and owners Carl and Kim Lewis, have been committed to the health and wellbeing of this great community for 20 years. Their services include free delivery, vaccinations, drug compounding, CBD products, and med sync to help patients fll all their medications at the same time each month. They are proud to be your number one hometown pharmacy.

GOLD WINNER

Poole's Pharmacy Care

Poole’s Pharmacy Care has built their reputation on genuine customer service for 32 years. They would like to be everyone’s pharmacy of choice by continuing to ofer the superior prescription and clinical services their current patients enjoy.

BEST AESTHETICS PRACTICE

PLATINUM WINNER

Advanced Aesthetics

Advanced Aesthetics, Owensboro Dermatology’s medical spa, provides advanced procedures and products for beautifully smooth, healthy skin. Board Certifed Dermatologists, Drs. Crowe and Truett, along with their team of skincare professionals, believe that beauty is more than skin-deep.

GOLD WINNER

Premier Aesthetics

Premier Aesthetics is a medical spa where the beauty of your skin is taken care of by licensed medical professionals. Some of their services include administering Botox and Juvederm; microneedling; chemical peels; Dermaplaning; and facials.

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

PLATINUM WINNER

Dr. Cassey Vessels

Dr. Cassey Vessels founded Dermatology Center of Owensboro in 2015 with the purpose of providing superior medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatologic care to Owensboro and the surrounding communities. Dr. Vessels’ practice strives to provide a patient-centered experience in a family-friendly manner.

Dr. Artis P. Truett

Dr. Artis P. Truett, III, board-certifed by the American Board of Dermatology, proudly serves patients at Owensboro Dermatology. Dr. Truett has served Owensboro since 1996 and is committed to learning from hands-on training sessions with new tools and treatment techniques, completion of continuing education courses, and participation in clinical trials.

BEST DERMATOLOGY OFFICE

PLATINUM WINNER

Owensboro Dermatology

Owensboro Dermatology is a world-class dermatology practice that continues to grow its expertise, team, and locations to ofer comprehensive dermatology services in a neighborhood near you, which now includes Henderson, Kentucky and Newburgh, Indiana.

Dermatology Center of Owensboro

Dermatology Center of Owensboro ofers medical dermatology, cosmetics and laser services, and clinical research. They are proud to guarantee that every visit will be with a board-certifed Dermatologist.

GOLD WINNER

GOLD WINNER

BEST DENTAL OFFICE

PLATINUM WINNER

Bluegrass Dental

Dr. Joshua K. Stamper is your friendly neighborhood dentist in Owensboro. At Bluegrass Dental, they are excited to provide advanced dental care that will brighten your smile, improve your health, and boost your self-confdence.

GOLD WINNER

Dental Designs

Dental Designs believes that family dentistry is about more than fxing teeth. They are committed to treating each individual client as a member of their own family, while maintaining the highest standards for comprehensive dental care.

BEST OPTOMETRIST

PLATINUM WINNER

Dr. Elizabeth Martin

Dr. Martin says joining RiverPark EyeCare over 10 years ago was one of the best decisions she’s ever made, as it has connected her with a great work family, who together strive each day to meet the eye care needs of our community.

GOLD WINNER

Dr. Steven Shake

Dr. Shake has practiced in Owensboro for over 30 years, treating generations of patients with high-quality care. His specialty interests include contact lenses and sports vision, and comanaging LASIK and other refractive surgeries along with cataract surgery.

BEST OPTOMETRY OFFICE

PLATINUM WINNER

RiverPark EyeCare

Established in 1949, RiverPark EyeCare has a rich tradition as one of the premier vision care leaders in our community. Visit their state-of-the-art ofce at 2905 New Hartford Road, where they will provide thorough, quality service using optometry’s latest technology.

GOLD WINNER

Owensboro Family Eye Care

If you are in need of an eye exam, glasses, or contact lenses, you can trust your vision to the team of doctors and staf at Owensboro Family Eye Care. Schedule an appointment today at (270) 683-2101 or online at ofecc.com.

BEST ALLERGY PRACTICE

PLATINUM WINNER

Allergy & Asthma Specialists

For over 20 years, Allergy & Asthma Specialists have been treating residents of Owensboro and the surrounding region for all manner of allergic diseases, asthma, and immunologic disorders. From their family to yours, they thank you for allowing them to care for you and your loved ones. They look forward to continuing their current patient relationships and to starting many new ones in the years ahead.

GOLD WINNER

Bluegrass Family Allergy

Dr. Kelly Brauer has been treating allergy and asthma patients in the Owensboro area since 2008 and started Bluegrass Family Allergy in 2015. They provide personalized world-class care to their patients, and feel blessed to be recognized for doing a job they love.

BEST PHYSICIAN

PLATINUM WINNER

Kishor Vora, MD

Interventional cardiologist Kishor Vora, MD, FACC, FSCAI, CCDS, has been practicing in Owensboro since 1992. Passionate about technological advancements in healthcare, Dr. Vora is a pioneer in bringing and ofering several cardiovascular interventional procedures to Owensboro, at the hospital as well as his local practice. What once started as a cardiovascular practice today encapsulates over 14 clinics in Daviess County, McLean County, Muhlenberg County, Henderson and Madisonville.

Dr. David Johnson

Dr. Johnson has served Owensboro at Bluegrass Internal Medicine since 2002. During that time, Dr. Johnson has diligently treated patients with a high level of care and expertise. Board-certifed by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Johnson employs the latest techniques and technology to achieve optimal results for his patients.

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

PLATINUM WINNER

Tinius Chiropractic Center

Tinius Chiropractic Center, through two generations, has been taking care of patients in Owensboro for more than 40 years. Dr. Brian Tinius and Dr. Larry Tinius provide comprehensive care to families and individuals of all ages.

GOLD WINNER Stallings

Chiropractic Center

The chiropractors and all the staf at Stallings Chiropractic strive to help people eliminate pain and improve their overall health in a welcoming atmosphere.

BEST MEDICAL PRACTICE

PLATINUM WINNER

Bluegrass Internal Medicine

Bluegrass Internal Medicine is a physicianowned practice, dedicated to delivering quality, comprehensive medical care to adult patients in the Greater Owensboro area. Their primary care clinic is well-equipped with a state-of-the-art laboratory, x-ray and ultrasound suites.

Owensboro Medical Practice

Owensboro Medical Practice is dedicated to improving and maintaining the health of the communities it serves. They achieve this through individualized, multi-specialty medical services, paired with innovative research to provide optimal, evidencebased treatment modalities.

GOLD WINNER

GOLD WINNER

BEST NURSE PRACTITIONER/ PHYSICIANS ASSISTANT PLATINUM WINNER

Sylvia Sweatt, APRN

Since 2012, Sylvia Sweatt has provided excellent healthcare to our community. She looks forward to continue to partner with her patients to make this year the best ever. If you are looking for a change in your life and looking for a primary care provider, please call today for your consultation.

GOLD WINNER

Linda Boarman FNP PLLC

Local and accessible, Linda Boarman, FNP PLLC provides comprehensive and high-quality primary care. They help you manage your health following evidence-based practice to personalize patient care.

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY/ ASSISTED LIVING PLATINUM WINNER

Carmel Home

As a leading nursing home care provider for families throughout the greater Owensboro region, Carmel Home is proud to be able to make a diference. They provide exceptional and reliable care services to their residents.

GOLD WINNER

Cedarhurst

At Cedarhurst of Owensboro, they believe in providing more than just all-inclusive, maintenance-free living. At Cedarhurst, life is all about experiences, friendship, and independence.

BEST VETERINARIAN

PLATINUM WINNER

Wills Animal Hospital

Wills Animal Hospital provides quality, small animal veterinary care through education and innovation. Their doctors and staf are animal lovers just like you, and will treat your pet with the kindness and respect they deserve.

GOLD WINNER

Kentuckiana Animal Clinic

Established in 1958, Kentuckiana Animal Clinic is a full-service, small animal veterinary hospital serving pet owners and pets in the greater Daviess County area. It is their daily privilege to provide quality veterinary care to their patients and excellent customer service to their clientele.

BEST PET GROOMER

PLATINUM WINNER

The Pet Manny

The Pet Manny LLC is dedicated to bringing the highest quality service and care to your pups. Find them at 4028A Frederica St. for your pups grooming, and to spoil them with toys and treats.

GOLD WINNER

Taxi Groomer

At Taxi Groomer, they pick up your dog, take them back to their in-home grooming salon, groom them, and return them to you feeling fresh and clean.

BEST PET DAYCARE/ BOARDING

PLATINUM WINNER

Paws Town

Owensboro’s premier safe and fun place for your pet to stay and play. They ofer turfed outdoor play, and temperature-controlled indoor play, all monitored by their wonderful trained staf.

GOLD WINNER

Pet Manny

In addition to grooming, you can leave your pup with the Pet Manny while you’re out of town, or even just running errands for the day. Either way, you can trust that the Pet Manny will take great care of your furry friend.

FURRY FRIENDS

BEST BANK

PLATINUM WINNER

Independence Bank

Independence Bank considers it an honor and huge compliment to be chosen as Owensboro’s Best Bank. They appreciate this award, and the people who voted to make it possible. They are allowed to support the community where they live, because it supports them. They realize they could not continue to grow, give back, and be here for good if it was not for those who have relentlessly supported the Revolution.

GOLD WINNER

German American Bank

German American Bank, which was founded in 1910 in the heart of the Ohio Valley Region, is dedicated to helping individuals, families and businesses achieve greater prosperity and quality of life. Their commitment is customer service excellence from a team of local fnancial professionals who believe in helping Owensboro thrive so its people can prosper.

BEST IT COMPANY

PLATINUM WINNER

Fastek Services

Fastek provides enterprise-level IT support and consulting services to businesses of all sizes. Their team of experts will keep your technology protected and running smoothly so you can focus on your business.

GOLD WINNER

BlueGrass Technology

BlueGrass Technology is a Veteran-owned and operated IT consulting and technology services company. As experts in cyber-security, customer service, telephone systems, cloud technology and backup solutions for any budget, they keep your information secure and your business thriving. They welcome the opportunity to become a part of your team.

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM PLATINUM WINNER ATA

Their experts, Partner Kris Kemp, CPA, CVA and Principal Vernon Wathen, CPA, provide advice to Owensboro’s businesses and have the answers to solve clients’ needs. ATA will guide you through their full-stack business solutions so you can thrive. Recognized as an IPA Top 150 regional accounting frm, it provides a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax and advisory services for clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies and international corporations.

GOLD WINNER

Riney Hancock CPAs

Since 1973, Riney Hancock CPAs PSC has successfully served the accounting and business consulting needs of individuals and businesses in western Kentucky and southern Indiana with one goal: to be their clients’ most trusted and valued fnancial advisors.

BEST CREDIT UNION PLATINUM WINNER

Liberty Federal Credit Union

Liberty FCU ofers personalized banking with services, such as checking and savings accounts, auto loans and online banking. They have two locations in Owensboro to meet all their customers’ banking needs.

GOLD WINNER

Daviess County Teachers Federal Credit Union

DCTFCU ofers competitive rates, free checking, and a convenient, remote, hassle-free banking experience. Take ownership in your local fnancial institution and join them today. Let them show you the diference.

Best of Owensboro Living WINNERS

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY PLATINUM WINNER

Kentucky Farm Bureau

Kentucky Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company has been serving its members of Kentucky Farm Bureau since 1943. Having four ofces spread out in Owensboro and Daviess County makes it easy for the members of this community to access all the membership benefts, Insurance being the most prominent. Kentucky Farm Bureau is “Big on Commitment.”

BEST LAW FIRM PLATINUM WINNER

Rhoads & Rhoads Injury Lawyers

For over 45 years, Rhoads and Rhoads attorneys have been fghting for injury and disability victims in Owensboro and western Kentucky. They handle serious injury, wrongful death, and Social Security Disability claims throughout the state. Their attorneys and team have a strong commitment to their clients and a unique passion for the work they do.

WINNER State Farm

GOLD

State Farm is the largest provider of auto and home insurance in the United States. For 100 years, the mission of State Farm has been, and continues to be, to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Its more than 19,400 agents and approximately 53,400 employees serve over 87 million policies and accounts – which includes auto, fre, life, health, commercial policies and fnancial services accounts.

BEST INSURANCE AGENT PLATINUM WINNER

Gavin Roberts

Gavin Roberts has been an agent with Kentucky Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company for 22 years, and is a Master Agent, the highest honor bestowed on the agency force. Gavin and his team strive to meet the needs of their members by bringing security, value and peace of mind with quality insurance products and claims service backed by the number one insurance carrier in Kentucky.

GOLD WINNER

Drew Cunningham

Whether it’s auto, home or life insurance, Drew Cunningham can take care of your insurance needs. Everyone at Drew Cunningham State Farm is incredibly thankful for their customers and the people of this community entrusting their agency. They are excited and grateful to serve this community for many more years to come.

GOLD WINNER

Foreman-WatsonHoltrey, LLP

Foreman Watson Holtrey is known as an excellent personal injury law frm. They have established a representation of taking an aggressive and thought-out approach in every single case. With roots here in Owensboro, they prioritize giving back to the community. They are not only awardwinning attorneys, they are dedicated to their clients and committed to justice.

BEST ATTORNEY PLATINUM WINNER

Chris Rhoads

Chris has been practicing law for over 25 years, providing representation in serious injury and wrongful death cases in Owensboro and throughout Kentucky. He and his team pride themselves on exceeding expectations and getting the very best results for their clients. Chris feels the hallmark of success is not only getting the best settlements or verdicts possible, but to do so while exercising the highest degree of integrity and commitment.

GOLD WINNER

Travis Holtrey

Since 1995, Travis Holtrey has assisted people across the state of Kentucky and throughout the United States who have been injured and need guidance because of a variety of unfortunate circumstances, including auto accidents, chemical exposures, and medical malpractice.

BEST FUNERAL HOME

Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory

Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve all area families with thoughtful and fexible prearrangement, along with a wide range of highly personalized traditional and contemporary funeral and cremation services. Their team is fully committed to providing exceptional care for you and your family.

James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory

An Owensboro tradition since 1913, James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory is family and locally owned with a fulltime staf of trained licensed funeral directors. With a wide variety of service options and a professionally-trained staf, you can rest assured that the arrangements you make will be correct in every detail.

GOLD WINNER

BEST REALTOR

PLATINUM WINNER

Tyler Shookman

Tyler Shookman has been honored as the Top Producing Agent at L. Steve Castlen, REALTORS® year after year, all while serving his community through his charity work. Tyler prides himself on his creative, innovative marketing techniques and the care and enthusiasm he puts into every transaction. Talk to Tyler!

GOLD WINNER

Ryan Rutman

Ryan Rutman has been serving Owensboro for nearly 15 years. Ryan has been voted as one of Owensboro’s Best Realtors for seven years. For him, it’s not about the houses. It’s about the relationships he builds.

BEST REALTY GROUP

PLATINUM WINNER

RE/MAX Professional Realty Group

RE/MAX Professional Realty Group has been serving Owensboro, Henderson, and the surrounding areas since 2007. They have 23 agents that pride themselves on service to their clients and our community.

GOLD WINNER

L. Steve Castlen Realtors

Providing high quality, innovative, and exceptional real estate service to Owensboro and surrounding areas for over 50 years! Call Castlen for residential, commercial, and relocations.

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

PLATINUM WINNER

Drew Watson

Drew Watson, CFP®, Private Wealth Advisor, and CEO of Align Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC., has been serving the fnancial needs of Owensboro for more than 25 years. Watson and his team at Align Wealth Management focus intently on fostering lasting relationships with clients and ofering unmatched client experience.

GOLD WINNER

Mitch Settle

Mitch Settle is a Managing Director at Baird. Mitch and his team focus on building strong, long-term relationships to carry over to future generations, while providing integrity, commitment and trust to every client experience.

BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY

PLATINUM WINNER

Liberty FCU Mortgage

Whether you’re in the market to purchase, build, or refnance, Liberty FCU Mortgage has the mortgage program that is right for you. Find the right loan at a great rate by contacting them for a free consultation about home fnancing.

GOLD WINNER

Ruoff Mortgage

Ruof Mortgage is located in Downtown Owensboro with 10 loan ofcers committed to giving everyone the possibility and potential in the homeownership experience. At Ruof, they know the way home. They’ll walk there with you.

BEST GARDEN CENTER PLATINUM WINNER Integrity

Nursery and Outdoor Living

Family owned & operated, Integrity has been growing along with Owensboro since 2002. They have become Owensboro’s premier outdoor living store, specializing in patio furniture, fountains, containers and urns, and home and garden décor, as well as trees and, shrubs, greenhouse plants and fowers, and bulk materials.

GOLD WINNER Watkins Nursery

Visit Watkins Nursery at 1224 Goetz Drive for all of your landscaping needs. From potted plants and trees to perennials and annuals, they have everything you need to keep your yard looking great.

BEST REMODELER

PLATINUM WINNER

JMJ Custom Homes

JMJ Custom Homes is a family owned and operated business with more than 30 years of experience. This Western Kentucky Home Builder performs all levels of home building and renovation.

GOLD WINNER

Phillip's Home Repair

Founded by Phillip McCarthy, Phillip’s Home Repair is proud to be family owned and operated. He has provided quality remodeling services to our community since 1994, and also ofers full-service building.

BEST HOME APPLIANCE STORE

PLATINUM WINNER

Murphy Appliance

Located in Owensboro, and proudly serving the state of Kentucky, Murphy’s showcases a large variety of appliances. They carry major brands such as Hotpoint, GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Speed Queen, Maytag, Danby, Haier and more.

GOLD WINNER

Green River Appliance

Serving Owensboro for decades, Green River Appliance ofers quality appliances and much more, paired with friendly and knowledgeable local salespeople. Visit them at 1130 J.R. Miller Blvd. or online at go-greenriver.com.

BEST HOME BUILDER

PLATINUM WINNER

JMJ Custom Homes

This full-service residential construction company is committed to designing a home that exceeds clients’ expectations, while ensuring each home is built with top contractors and quality materials. Founded by Rick Bivins, JMJ Custom Homes is a welcome change for many home buyers looking for a more personal experience in the custom home building process.

GOLD WINNER

Jagoe Homes

Since beginning in 1939, award-winning Jagoe Homes has built over 7,000 homes throughout Newburgh, Evansville and Huntingburg, Indiana and in Bowling Green, Henderson, Louisville, and Owensboro, Kentucky. The third-generation, Owensboro-based builder is co-owned by brothers Scott and Bill Jagoe. In 2010, Jagoe Homes surpassed more than 119,000 homebuilders nationwide when named National Builder of the Year by Professional Builder magazine.

BEST HOME DECOR STORE PLATINUM WINNER

Willow & Pine Market

Located on the corner of Second and St. Ann, Willow & Pine Market is passionate about making your gatherings with friends and family special. Every beautiful plate, bowl, and serving piece they ofer has been hand-picked especially for you and for your table.

GOLD WINNER

Julep Home & Gift

Founded at the kitchen table in late 2020 by motherdaughter duo Sharon and Elizabeth Wilson, Julep Home and Gift, LLC, provides an extensive wedding registry program, as well as a curated selection of home décor, entertaining, and men’s and women’s gifts.

BEST HEATING & AIR COMPANY

PLATINUM WINNER

Henry's Plumbing Heating & Air

Look no further than Henry’s Plumbing Incorporated Heating and Air when you need commercial or residential plumbing & HVAC services. Established in 1979, their technicians and installers have been serving Daviess County and the surrounding areas for more than 40 years.

GOLD WINNER

Schwartz Heating & Cooling

Schwartz Heating & Cooling is a customer service-driven and owner-supervised company that delivers unparalleled quality in installing, servicing, and maintaining all types of heating and air conditioning comfort systems.

BEST PLUMBER

PLATINUM WINNER

Scott Baird

Have trouble with clogged drains? Call the plumbing professionals at Scott Baird Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. They cater to all plumbing projects, including new construction, preventative maintenance, plumbing repairs, and new installations.

GOLD WINNER

Henry's Plumbing

For residential and commercial plumbing needs, call Henry’s Plumbing. When you need plumbing installation or repair services, rely on Henry’s Plumbing Incorporated Heating and Air.

BEST FURNITURE STORE

PLATINUM WINNER

Mudd's Furniture

A family-owned business for over seventy years, Mudd’s Furniture Inc. has been privileged to serve Owensboro and the surrounding area with living room, bedroom and bedding along with kitchen and other products.

GOLD WINNER

Ashley Furniture

Visit their showroom at 3250 Highland Pointe Drive to browse a large selection of furniture, mattresses, and home décor. They are committed to serving the tristate and passionate about bringing you the best value in furniture and mattresses for your home.

BEST ELECTRICIAN PLATINUM WINNER

Westerfield

Westerfeld Electric ofers commercial, residential and industrial electrical services to Owensboro and the surrounding areas. They also provide build-outs and construction of medical ofces and hospitals, installation and maintenance of generators, security and monitoring, and voice and data services.

GOLD WINNER Lark

Since 1963, Lark Electric has been setting the standard for electrical contracting. Due to Lark’s vast infrastructure, they can serve clients from small projects to large complex projects. Their experienced team is here to help when you need them.

BEST LAWN CARE PLATINUM WINNER

Weed Man

For more than 50 years, Weed Man Lawn Care has created outdoor yards and landscapes that their customers are proud to call home. From lawn fertilization to weed control, integrated pest management and everything in between, Weed Man has a lawn care program for every lawn.

GOLD WINNER

Cornerstone Lawn Care

At Cornerstone Lawn Care, their quality is their guarantee. Call or visit them online for a quote to get your yard in tip top shape.

BEST BARBER SHOP

PLATINUM WINNER

Klutch

Klutch would like to thank Owensboro for voting them Best Barbershop for the 7th straight year. They’re thriving more than ever in their new location at 3800 Frederica St, in front of the old Texas Gas building. Book your appointment using the Booksy app and come see why Klutch is the best.

GOLD WINNER

Headquarters

Visit their expanded location in Wesleyan Park Plaza for a laidback, sports themed atmosphere. From fades to cuts and coloring, Headquarters has you covered.

BEST HAIR SALON

PLATINUM WINNER

Swank Style & Boutique

Swank is a one-stop destination, with a boutique, in addition to taking care of all your hair care needs. They ofer jewelry, purses and clothing for a night out on the town or staying around the house.

GOLD

WINNER Blitz

Blitz is dedicated to serving women of every shape, size, age and color. They ofer boutique clothing, as well as hair and spa services.

BEST FLORIST

PLATINUM WINNER

Welborn Floral

Welborn Floral is a full-service forist and gift shop providing foral arrangements, delivery, and rentals for weddings and corporate events. They have been a family owned business providing service to Owensboro since 1958 and are honored to serve the Owensboro community for generations to come.

GOLD WINNER

Meadow House

Meadow House is a local Owensboro forist specializing in unique and creative fower arrangements. Visit their fresh fower bar in Old Town Shopping Center. They also ofer fower delivery in Owensboro from Tuesday thru Saturday.

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

PLATINUM WINNER

JJ Foster

Shop a variety of men’s styles in store or online. From casual to formal wear and accessories, they carry brands such as Vineyard Vines, Dixie Reserve, Southern Marsh, Southern Tide and Ray-Ban.

GOLD WINNER

Byron & Barclay

Byron & Barclay is celebrating their 7th year in business. Along with their amazing brands of men’s clothing, they also ofer suit rentals and women’s clothing. Stop in to see them in downtown Owensboro or shop byronandbarclay.com for free shipping or front porch delivery.

BEST SHOE STORE

PLATINUM WINNER

Shoe Stop

Proudly serving Owensboro since 1999. They are very thankful for all of their customers putting their trust in their service over the last 24 years.

GOLD WINNER

Red Wing

Your Red Wing Ultimate Fit Specialist will help you build a ft system tailored to your specifc needs to keep you supported, comfortable and safe—all day, every day.

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP

PLATINUM WINNER

Robin's ReSale & Boutique

Robin’s ReSale & Boutique ofers consignment for the entire family, plus a trendy new boutique with clothes for women sizes small through 3X. You’ll fnd gently used clothing as well as formal wear, and they are now ofering embroidery and graphic tees.

GOLD WINNER

EnVogue

EnVogue is a resale boutique which specializes in men’s, women’s and children’s apparel, along with a large selection of home furnishings. Locally owned since 2007.

BEST BOUTIQUE PLATINUM WINNER Bella Ragazza

Bella Ragazza Boutique ofers a fun, friendly shopping experience where you can fnd everyday style at afordable prices. You can fnd new arrivals daily in store and on their website BellaBabe.com, where can choose to pick up in store, curbside or shipped directly to you for free. Watch them Live on Instagram and Facebook for virtual shopping at home.

GOLD WINNER Peacocks and Pearls

Peacocks and Pearls is your source for beautiful, timeless and afordable clothing and accessories for women of all ages.

BEST JEWELER PLATINUM WINNER Lance & Co.

Family owned and operated. Lance has been a Master Bench Jeweler for over 40 years, and loves every relationship he has with his customers. Lance & Co. ofers many great InStore Services such as: repairs, sizings, appraisals, and even custom design. Shop in-store at the Wesleyan Park Plaza or online any time at www.LanceCoJewelers.com.

GOLD WINNER Nick T. Arnold

Nick T. Arnold Jewelers strives to provide personal service, along with a wide variety of fne jewelry from top brands like Pandora, LeVian, Fossil, Seiko, Bulova, and repairs for jewelry, watches and clocks. Visit them at 3630 Frederica Street or 2594 Calumet Trace in Gateway Commons and we are always open by text 270-686-8463 or online 24/7 www. shopnta.com.

BEST CAR WASH/ DETAILING

PLATINUM WINNER

Ollie Wash

Ollie Wash provides a bright, cheerful environment by virtue of glass walls and a clear roof that fll the tunnel with natural light. It’s also spacious, with an extra-wide passageway beneath a soaring ceiling.

GOLD WINNER

Sparkle Brite Car Wash

Sparkle Brite Car Wash is an experienced car wash service that has been serving the Owensboro area since the 1960s. Their attention to detail is what keeps customers coming back for repeat business.

BEST CAR LOT

PLATINUM WINNER

The Moore Automotive Team

The Moore Automotive Team opened their doors in 1919 and have grown to over 300 employees, ofering 13 brands of vehicles from 3 locations in Owensboro and Hartford, KY.

GOLD WINNER

Champion Ford

Lincoln Mazda

Serving Owensboro and the Tri-State for over 32 years, Champion is proud to be your trusted local Ford, Lincoln, and Mazda dealer, and to meet your service, and new or preowned vehicle sales needs.

I WORK OUT

BEST GOLF COURSE PLATINUM WINNER

The Pearl Club

The Pearl Club ofers the area’s premier golfng experience at a reasonable price, and is open to the public. Come join them for a round of golf, dinner in the grill or a cocktail on the patio. Golf, Dine Relax at The Pearl Club.

GOLD WINNER Owensboro Country Club

Owensboro Country Club ofers something for everyone. Each member is important to them, and their dedicated and friendly staf strives to give each member the individual attention they deserve. The Club provides an excellent place to host your business function or any special occasion.

Photo by AP IMAGERY

BEST GYM/FITNESS CENTER

PLATINUM WINNER

Owensboro Athletic Club

Owensboro Athletic Club is Owensboro’s newest and largest 24-hour health club. With a massive 38,000 sq. ft. and fully-serviced facility, they ofer amenities like childcare, hydro massage, tanning, infrared saunas, a cardio theater, HIIT area, rock climbing training wall, and top-of-line cardio and strength equipment.

Owensboro Health Healthpark

Live healthier and stronger by taking advantage of Owensboro Health’s Healthpark — Kentucky’s only facility certifed by the Medical Fitness Association. At their 115,000-square-foot center, you’ll fnd everything you need to achieve complete wellness for your mind and body.

BEST RUNNING RACE

PLATINUM WINNER

Wendell Foster Half Marathon

The Wendell Foster Half Marathon takes place annually each fall. The race starts and fnishes on the Ohio riverfront by the beautiful Smothers Park. The race benefts Wendell Foster, a local non-proft that provides 65,000 services to people with developmental disabilities each year.

Mentorkids

Rugged Race

Challenge yourself or form a group to tackle this 5K run with 26 obstacles. Everyone from beginners to elites can come out for a great cause. One thing they can promiseyou will get dirty. Check out Mentorkids KY on Facebook for details.

GOLD WINNER

GOLD WINNER

BEST NEWS MEDIA

Owensboro Times

Owensboro Times is the fastest-growing news platform in Owensboro. They are committed to providing accessible, daily news to OBKY. You are invited to get with the times, too.

GOLD WINNER

14 News

14 News is the Tri-State’s news and weather leader. WFIE covers Evansville, Owensboro, and 21 surrounding counties in Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois. Their studio in downtown Owensboro allows them to provide even more of the local news that our community has trusted for years.

BEST RADIO STATION

WBKR

The Country Station, 92.5 WBKR serves their listeners and community through the radio, the WBKR mobile app, active social media sites and their website—WBKR.com. WBKR’s on-air personalities are committed to bringing you a daily dose of New Country, community, heart and fun.

GOLD WINNER

102.7 The Game

Your local ESPN Radio afliate, 102.7 The Game brings you favorites like Kentucky Sports Radio and local sports updates on interviews with shows like Live at 5.

BEST LOCAL COLLEGE

PLATINUM WINNER

OCTC

The mission of the college is to educate, lead, and serve all citizens who choose to enhance their lives and community as lifelong learners by pursuing a comprehensive curriculum fulflling the frst two years of a baccalaureate program; a certifcate, diploma, and/or associate degree, and many other programs.

Kentucky Wesleyan College

Kentucky Wesleyan College is proud to be a college for Owensboro. As a community member, they are proud to partner, support and have the support of numerous local individuals and organizations who believe in their faith-based mission and the importance of a well-rounded liberal arts education delivered right here in Owensboro. Kentucky Wesleyan has proudly called Owensboro home for 70 years.

BEST FARMER/FOOD PRODUCER

PLATINUM WINNER

Hill View Farms

The Market at Hill View Farms, located on the west side of Owensboro, produces and sells locally raised meats, dairy products, baked goods, seasonings and many more options. Stop in and see how they can help you “Taste the Diference” in locally produced goods.

Cecil Farms

Since 1981, the Cecil Family has specialized in growing a huge variety of fruits and vegetables on their farm, with their largest crop currently being sweet watermelon that lands on grocery shelves across the United States during the months of JulySeptember. Gary, Imelda, Ryan, Suzanne and Katie pour their heart and soul into providing both the local regional community and national grocers with the safest and freshest healthy food year after year.

GOLD WINNER

GOLD WINNER

BEST ANNUAL EVENT

PLATINUM WINNER

ROMP

Produced by the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, ROMP Festival brings people from all over the world (and all 50 states in the US) to Owensboro to experience four straight days of Bluegrass & roots music, good food, and great vibes. Join them June 21-24 at the beautiful Yellow Creek Park for onsite camping, arts & crafts, food trucks, and more. For tickets and more info, go to rompfest.com.

GOLD WINNER Porch Fest

Live music from over three dozen singers and bands takes place on multiple porches along Grifth Avenue. Enjoy a summer day flled with great tunes, fellowship and plenty of food trucks.

BEST ROADSIDE MARKET

PLATINUM WINNER

Reid's Orchard

Reid’s is celebrating 150 years, and it’s a place where many Owensboroans have made fond memories. Enjoy their market days, with fresh produce, fowers, kids activities and vendors. Find out for yourself why they’re more than just apples.

GOLD

WINNER Trunnell's Farm Market

At Trunnell’s, they are dedicated to providing your family with the absolute freshest grown Kentucky products and the best farm family fun. They invite you and your family to visit their market, and share the refreshing view of the country. It’s an experience you just can’t get in the city, and a taste you can’t fnd in a grocery store.

BEST PLACE TO WORK

PLATINUM WINNER

Owensboro Health

Owensboro Health team members are more than healthcare workers – they’re your neighbors, friends and family. Every individual, regardless of their role, pulls together to keep our community healthy. They applaud these healthcare heroes for all they do, and for making Owensboro Health a great place to work.

GOLD WINNER

Daviess County Public Schools

The Daviess County Public Schools district puts “Kids First” in everything they do. If you are looking for a rewarding career that makes a diference in the lives of kids, join their team. Visit www.dcps.org and click on “Employment” to apply.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO

PLATINUM WINNER

Reflections by Talea

Refections By Talea Photography specializes in maternity, newborns, babies, children & families. With 15 years in business, she has curated a luxury experience for her clients from start to fnish, including a full studio wardrobe to style the entire family for a truly unique portrait session.

GOLD WINNER

Dream Copy

From weddings to senior pictures, and everything in between, DreamCopy Photography is Owensboro’s trusted source for quality photography. Serving the community since 2004, they are located at 2103 Frederica Street.

BEST EVENT VENUE

PLATINUM WINNER

Owensboro Convention Center

The Owensboro Convention Center is Western Kentucky’s premier event space. They ofer a full-service facility overlooking the scenic Ohio River. The multi-purpose center boasts just under 102,000 sq. ft. of available space, including a 44,000+ sq. ft. exhibition hall, the 8,900+ sq. ft. Kentucky Legend® Pier outside and additional ballroom, meeting, and pre-function space.

GOLD WINNER

Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum

Located in downtown Owensboro with sweeping views of the Ohio River, The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum ofers a unique venue for events large or small. With multiple spaces designed with your event in mind, and professional staf ready to transform your ideas into reality, they ofer an incredible venue for a truly memorable event.

BEST CHARITY EVENT

PLATINUM WINNER

Owensboro Lip Sync Battle

The Lip Sync Battle benefts Puzzle Pieces, a nonproft that serves those with intellectual disabilities. The 2023 event raised $208,000, shattering their record of $140,000 from the previous year. Eleven teams performed, and RWRA was voted as the Grand Champion.

GOLD WINNER

Dancing with Our Stars

Dancing with Our Stars Owensboro Style, presented by Old National Bank, benefts Boulware Mission, a faithbased organization that fosters positive change in the lives of displaced men by providing shelter, education, rehabilitation, and licensed substance abuse treatment. Boulware provides the tools men need to become selfsufcient and thriving members of the community.

ACTIVE: PICKLEBALL—THE SPORT THAT KEEPS GROWING p. 80

SENIOR LIVING: CLEARING THE HURDLES OF HEARING LOSS p. 84

HEALTH: OWENSBORO HEALTH OFFERS HEART FAILURE CLINIC p. 88

LIFESTYLE →

The Sport that Keeps Growing in Owensboro & Beyond

Written by MARLYS MASON

Owensboro is on the leading edge of pickleball, a sport that is the fastest growing in America for the third year.

The Tri-State’s largest pickleball tournament was held in Owensboro in March and over 400 players participated.

Local resident Altaf Merchant, who is currently the world’s highestranked senior player, according to the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating and has already won four gold medals in 2023, resides in Owensboro.

And recently six new pickleball courts were added to Yellow Creek Park in the county, and in 2020, York Park’s four courts opened with the help of the River Park Pickleball Club and the City of Owensboro, along with other public and private courts throughout Daviess County.

Brandon Mackie, co-founder of Pickleheads, a platform that helps players fnd courts, organize sessions, and connect with local players, said that www.pickleheads.com has over 11 thousand courts indexed for the United States and tracks the growth of pickleball.

Currently, there are over 10 thousand places to play pickleball in the United States and 36.5 million pickleball players in the United States, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals in 2022.

Mackie, who has been building the website as a resource for pickleball players to access information about clinics, open play and tournaments, said that people just keep joining to play the sport.

“A new data point is that 48.3 million played once in the last three years,” Mackie said.

Mackie said one of the reasons for the growth is that it is easy to learn.

“Just a few rules and skills and you can even win in one day,” he said.

Added to the ease is the socialness of the game, since it is generally played with four people in a doubles format.

“The social aspect is the reason for many,” he said. “You meet a lot of people and that’s what keeps people coming back.”

Pickleball also spans all generations, and Mackie said it is not uncommon to fnd an 18-year-old talking to a 65-year-old while at the

courts.

“You can’t count anyone out,” he said.

The Southeast is the fastestgrowing segment of pickleball in the country, according to Mackie, and this is what has led the whole sport forward. His website allows players to fnd courts wherever they are and see what events are being held and also details about clinics, lessons and open play.

“The site allows segregation for player levels, events and for fun,” he said.

Checking out the local chapters is the best way to fnd out what is being ofered, which will allow participants to attend clinics for basic pickleball skills and then move into playing in open play or events.

Pickleheads also has free, basic web lessons to break down the information for someone wanting to learn at home.

“Go out to open play,” he said. “Show up by yourself and mix and match with people throughout. It’s the best way to get involved.” OL

A Whole New Choice

NEW SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES TRULY CATER TO RESIDENTS

Over the last two decades, senior living communities have been evolving to better meet the needs and preferences of today’s active older adults. In Owensboro, Kentucky, the area’s newest community, Calumet Trace by Charter Senior Living, is set to open in spring 2023.

Designed to provide an all-inclusive lifestyle, Calumet Trace mirrors a resort-style experience where accommodations, services and amenities are covered by a monthly fee. Residents can choose from a variety of apartment styles and sizes, from studios up to two-bedroom foor plans with a gourmet kitchen.

While residents are enjoying their personal pastimes, joining friends on a day trip, or connecting with family, an attentive staf takes care of the housekeeping and maintenance. Unlike other communities, Calumet Trace ofers dining as part of the price with three meals per day ordered from a chef’s choice menu or an always available menu – a big win for value.

With seniors focusing more on health and wellness, the community ofers an array of options for enhancing residents’ well-being, from a ftness center and wellness services to outdoor areas for walking and gardening. In case you’re wondering, yes, Calumet Trace is petfriendly – another sign that new communities are catering to residents’ values and lifestyle preferences.

For anyone needing additional support, Calumet Trace is Owensboro’s only senior living option that ofers Personal Care and Memory Care in addition to Independent Living in one community. That means if your needs change over time, you can stay in the community you love, close to friends and neighbors, without having to move elsewhere.

Of course, since Calumet Trace is brand-new, it feels fresh and contemporary with state-ofthe-art features and fnishes. Considering all that’s included, it’s defnitely worth taking a look.

To learn more, visit www.calumettrace.com or call 270.505.4472.   OL

Clearing the Hurdles of Hearing Loss

Written by DANA PEVELER

Inoticed the house smelled smoky when I walked through the front door, but didn’t think much about it. After all, it was Easter Sunday, and it isn’t uncommon for someone to spill something on a burner, or in the oven while they’re cooking. What was unusual, though, was fnding my mom, a piece of broccoli in one hand, waving a spoon with the other. Words were coming quickly, and sentences short. It took a minute for me to piece together that they’d had a skillet fre earlier that morning, the alarms were sounded, ADT called to verify the emergency; when neither answered, the fre department was dispatched. Mom couldn’t hear her phone because

of the alarms. Dad couldn’t hear the calls because he couldn’t hear – even with his hearing aids.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), 2 percent of the population of adults aged 45 – 54 have hearing loss. Jump up to the next category of 55 – 64 and it increases to 8.5 percent. Beyond that, to 65-74, it multiplies to 25%, and by age 75, it is a whopping 50% of the population having totally disabling hearing loss. Even worse to me, is that 28.8 million American adults could beneft from hearing aids, yet only 1 in 3 of adults 70 and older actually use them. Even fewer, 16 percent of adults, ages 20

– 69, who need them, have ever used them.

Seniors tell me they avoid social gatherings, decline dinner invitations, stop watching their favorite television shows, stop attending church, and even isolate themselves altogether because it is physically and emotionally straining to hear what is being said. They worry that they will respond inappropriately during discussions, creating confusion, or worse … confict, so they simply no longer participate. As you may have guessed, this can have a serious impact on one’s mental wellbeing. Studies have shown that the isolation associated with hearing loss results in loneliness and depression.

Additionally, according to an article published by Johns Hopkins Medicine, there’s a link between hearing loss and dementia. In fact, the likelihood for dementia doubled with mild hearing loss, tripled for moderate, and increased by 5 times for those with severe hearing loss.

Not only does hearing loss have a serious psychological impact, it can have critical safety implications, as well. A couple of years ago, I met my grandparents for lunch. It was storm season, and just as we fnished eating, the tornado sirens blared. I thought Granddad stood up to move further away from windows, but he was preparing to leave to fnish their errands. I told him, from the sound of things, I didn’t think it wise to leave until all the weather passed. He had no idea what I was talking about! When I asked him why he’d venture out with the tornado sirens going, he told me he hadn’t heard any! I was terrifed

for them. A wave of realization washed through me – he couldn’t hear sirens; that meant he couldn’t hear car horns, emergency vehicles when he drove, or doctors or pharmacists explaining critical instructions. I immediately launched a persuasive attack on the necessity of seeing his doctor and investigating hearing aids!

Not all hearing loss is due to age. It may be due to medications, illness, injury, noise exposure, even genetics. Some early signs to look for could be realizing you can no longer hear what’s being said, but you’re struggling to understand it – some words are unclear, or maybe just certain pitches. Other symptoms could be struggling to hear conversations in crowds, ringing in the ears, fnding yourself straining to hear, or noticing you’ve turned the volume up more and more on your television. You may even notice you don’t hear everyday sounds, like the wind blowing, or the creeks of your

foor. As soon as you have even the slightest suspicion you may have something wrong with your hearing, see a physician. Studies show that the average person waits 10 years before addressing their hearing loss. The earlier you identify a problem, the less negative impact it can have, not just on your quality of life, but also on your brain’s ability to comprehend speech.

So you’ve identifed you have trouble hearing, and your medical professional has identifed your particular typewhat now? An article by the Cleveland Clinic shared some suggestions!

Hearing aids – if you don’t know where to start, ask someone who has already navigated that world and is pleased with their outcome;

Assistive listening devices – by the way, some health care providers may be able to provide one during your visit if you request it;

Medications, depending on the cause of your hearing loss;

Surgery, for example, Cochlear implants (surgically implanted devices);

Audiological rehabilitation that can retrain your brain to interpret communication, and also teach you to use your assistive devices;

You may need a combination of these, for example, an illness can cause your hearing aids to be temporarily less efective, but with medication, your hearing may be restored to the level it was prior to the onset.

You’ve been proactive and sought help, now it’s time to advocate for yourself with those with whom you engage, whether that’s your loved ones, your healthcare providers, or the person at the checkout counter at the grocery! Start by letting them know you’re hard of hearing, then coach them through the ways they can best help you understand what they

are saying.

If you care for someone who is hard of hearing, there are several ways you can help ensure they have the best possible experience. Start by having an honest conversation about what it’s like to have hearing loss. Have them explain their condition and ask what they would like you to do for them. Ofer to attend medical appointments, if needed. Ask if it’s okay for you to translate for them in conversations where they display communication challenges. If dining out is part of your things-to-do list, choose places with less background noise and sit closer together. Face the person when speaking to them so that they can read your lips and use your expressions to provide clues. Use simple sentences with key phrases. Instead of speaking louder when told they didn’t hear you, rephrase. Often, it isn’t the loudness

of your voice, but the actual words they aren’t understanding. Speak slowly and clearly in your natural tone and volume. I’ve found that dropping my voice pitch helps some hear me better since my voice is naturally high. Lastly, be patient – don’t give up and say, “Never mind.” This frustrates and builds barriers to communication.

So here we are, surrounded by those marvelous sounds of the season - chirping birds, children laughing, porch music, the crack of a bat connecting with a perfect pitch, and soft river waves licking the bank. Add to those the contrasting, lifesaving sounds of a screaming smoke detector, emergency vehicle sirens, and threatening weather alarms. Keep in mind that others may not be as fortunate to hear them, and do what you can to ease the burden for you and for them. OL

OWENSBORO HEALTH OFFERS HEART FAILURE CLINIC

If you’ve been diagnosed with heart failure, it’s common to feel uncertain about what to do next. But you aren’t alone. The Owensboro Health cardiology team is ready to help you navigate this challenging time with expertise and compassion.

Recently, Owensboro Health has created a Heart Failure Clinic directed by Navin Rajagopalan, MD, an advanced heart failure specialist who is also the Director of the Gill Heart & Vascular Institute Afliate Network at the University of Kentucky.

“Being diagnosed with heart failure can be scary, but the good news is that we have several treatments that can improve symptoms and allow patients to live longer with improved quality of life,” Dr. Rajagopalan said.

While medications are at the forefront of therapy for heart failure, and physicians will often start patients on several medications over time until treatment goals are achieved, proper diet and regular exercise are important components of treating heart failure. “In cardiology, I love the interaction between medications, procedures and devices,” said Dr. Rajagopalan. “They can all work together to allow patients to live longer and, most importantly, feel better.”

UNDERSTANDING HEART FAILURE

Heart failure is a general term we use to describe the heart’s inability to pump enough blood to supply the body’s needs, and it’s a chronic disease that will require patients to follow up on a regular basis with their primary care physician and cardiologist, Dr.

Rajagopalan said.

Although it is possible for a person to have heart failure and not know it, most patients develop symptoms that cause them to seek medical attention.

“The most common symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath with simple activities, worsening fatigue, swelling of the legs and feet, and unexplained abdominal swelling,” Dr. Rajagopalan said. “Patients may have difculty laying fat at night and require more than two pillows to avoid feeling short of breath. Some of these symptoms could also be due to other medical problems, so it is important for people to make an appointment with their doctor if they notice any of these symptoms.”

A TEAM APPROACH

Heart failure is a complex illness requiring a team of healthcare workers to treat patients successfully. The heart failure clinic at Owensboro Health has a team of cardiologists, nurse practitioners, nurse navigators and pharmacists who all work together to help patients with heart failure feel better and stay out of the hospital.

Dr. Rajagopalan works closely with the team in Owensboro, traveling from the University of Kentucky each month to see patients locally. A nurse practitioner is available to see patients in a timely manner, monitoring changes in symptoms and the patient’s overall condition. The pharmacist reviews patient medications prior to preparation to ensure they are appropriate based on their condition and lab work. They

can also help answer any questions.

A nurse navigator provides individualized assistance to patients, their families or caregivers and provides education and support regarding the patient’s heart failure treatment, follow-up care and rehabilitation plan. They’ll also coordinate with the physician and other members of the treatment team to ensure everyone receives excellent care.

“Heart failure can be unpredictable, and the Owensboro Health clinic will ensure patients can be seen on time and have their concerns addressed should urgent problems arise,” Dr. Rajagopalan said. OL

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. RAJAGOPALAN AND THE HEART FAILURE CLINIC AT OWENSBOROHEALTH.ORG/RAJ, AND ASK YOUR PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER FOR A REFERRAL IF YOU’D LIKE TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT.

ROOSTER BOOSTER: MARCH MADNESS p. 96

LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE: INAUGURAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT p. 98

MEET THE BOARD CHAIR: SARAH MURPHY FORD p. 94

Fromthe CHAMBER

Welcome to the second volume of Chamber Current!

Spring is here! It’s a time each year when we thank our members who make our community and our economy move forward. Happy Member Appreciation!

Our Members have done their part to move Greater Owensboro forward through this last year. Whether they have kept their operations a oat amongst adversity or worked around the clock to meet growing demands for products and services — they have done their part. We are humbled by how they have adapted and innovated; and we have been truly inspired — but not at all surprised — by their incredible work.

Every day we hear from members with new ideas, new ventures or better ways of doing business. We love their passion for always wanting more for their business, organization and our community.

During the month of April, we sent out Member Appreciation packets. In our Appreciation packets Members will nd the 2023 Owensboro Magazine, Membership Bene ts and the 2023 Member Decal.

We are so proud of the businesses in our community. ank you to our members for their continued investment. We thank them for making Greater Owensboro greater every day.

We are so proud to serve our Members.

CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE President & CEO, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

GO Chamber FREE Marketing Opportunities

›› Business Directory Listing: Online and in print. e full directory is also available by request for direct mail e orts.

›› Member of the Week: Featured article in Owensboro Times with a social media blast, a customized post on the Chamber Facebook, Twitter and Instagram page and a featured graphic in the Chamber Weekly email and monthly Chamber Matters in the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer.

›› Engage Owensboro: A community tool to focus e orts on nurturing existing talent programs, developing new ways to connect current and future leaders and creating solutions to regional workforce issues.

›› Member Corner: Ability to post job opportunities, Member discounts and upcoming events on the Chamber website and in the monthly Member Memo.

›› New Membership Listing: Featured in Chamber Matters and throughout Chamber communications.

›› Rooster Booster Announcement: Introduced to 300+ people in attendance, also broadcast live on WOMI 1490, replayed on Channel 71 public access television, and posted on the Chamber YouTube channel and all Chamber social media.

GO Chamber Member Cost-Savings Programs

›› Chamber Advantage Health Plans: A comprehensive and a ordable healthcare solution.

›› ClearPath Mutual: Workers’ compensation insurance program.

›› In ntech: Credit card processing company that gives Chamber Members a discount (30-40% o traditional fees).

›› O ce Depot: 200+ items discounted for Chamber Members (can access online, in-store and with customized o erings).

›› Constant Contact: 60 days free for this email management and marketing company.

›› Owensboro Health Healthpark: O ers a discount on all annual memberships to Chamber Members.

›› Laborchex: Discounted background checks .

GO Chamber Networking Opportunities

›› Rooster Booster Breakfast

›› Committees

›› Chamber A er Hours

›› Ribbon Cuttings

›› Chamber Young Professionals

›› Chamber Golf Classic

›› Red, White and Blue

›› Chamber Celebration

›› e Network

GO Chamber Professional Development Opportunities

›› Chamber Ambassadors

›› Chamber Young Professionals

›› Leadership Owensboro

›› Teachers in the Workplace

›› Professional Development Seminars

›› Small Business Development Center

For more information about your Chamber Member benefits, contact Shelly Nichols, Chamber Vice President, at shelly@owensboro.com or 270-926-1860.

MEET THE BOARD CHAIR

SARAH MURPHY FORD

of my dad. He cheers me on, and at the same time he helps me realize that I must continue to grow and challenge myself. He reminds me not to get too comfortable, and he challenges me to think bigger. Our team never stops and says, “Okay, we did it, we are done!” Money and hitting goals mean nothing if you don’t care about the people around you.

How do other Chamber board members inspire you?

I could write a book on how the members of the Chamber Board of Directors inspire me. Recently, I was so proud to see how many ATHENA Award nominees were on our board and how many past recipients had been Board members. e depth of conversation in our board meetings is unreal. Everyone genuinely cares about people in our community. Our board members speak with authority in a strong and upli ing way.

Please tell us about your role in your professional career.

As the Vice President at Hartz Contracting, I serve on our Board of Directors and oversee the operations of our three locations, which includes our strategies, processes, so ware, etc. I don’t get to physically be out on the job “building,” but I get to use my strategic mind and assist our team.

How do you hope to make an impact as board chair?

I feel that connecting with others is the most important thing our board can do, and it is what I have committed to as board chair. I think showing up creates ENERGY that makes people want to be better! It’s inspiring to feed o each other’s energy, which is why I think people come to Rooster Booster so early on a ursday morning – YOU FEEL IT!

How long have you called Owensboro home?

I was raised in Bowling Green and went to Lexington for college. I moved to Owensboro in 2011 when I married my better half!

How can we make Owensboro more attractive to employers, small businesses and young people who want to find more opportunity and success here?

It is our responsibility to make people feel like Owensboro is home. People did that for me when I moved here. Community and connection are what makes a place feel like home. We take so many actions to build an appealing community for those that move here, PorchFest and ROMP to name a few. But we must be more intentional about showing people we want them to be here and be a part of our community.

What inspires you most about our community?

e people. We have so many passionate people in our community that have unique and innovative ideas and the follow-through to make things happen. It is so inspiring to see people come together to build up our community.

What is your definition of a mentor?

A mentor is someone who helps you get somewhere that you could not have gotten on your own. When I think of an example of a mentor in my life, I think

ey still have their own vision. ey accept others’ ideas. ey understand when minds come together, the ideas are limitless. None of our board members settle. As soon as one thing is done, they are ready to take on the next or asking “Okay, now how can we make this even better?” eir love and passion for our community and their vision for a better future creates such possibility.

What is your favorite “Chamber moment?”

ere are too many to count, but the rst Rooster Booster this past March sponsored by Wendell Foster was unforgettable. It was so inspiring to hear from guest speakers Elizabeth and Stephen Wampler and to see so many people stand up and cheer for an amazing organization in our community. Watching Chad kick o the Steps Division of the Wendell Foster Half Marathon was both hilarious and moving. Events like this make me look at out community and smile.

What are you most proud of to date in your professional career?

Leading our company’s transition from paper to digital technology. Although we started this project to become more e cient and produce cost savings, the most rewarding part was training the men and women that swore they would never be able to

transition. It was challenging and required a lot of energy to motivate, encourage and solve problems, but once it clicked, we were able to celebrate these new skills. It completely changed the dynamics of our company, and now they have their own creative ideas on how to continuously improve our processes. With that kind of collaboration and engagement, the sky’s the limit for us.

How do you remain fully present in all areas of life while running a family-owned business and being a wife and mother to three children?

I remain aware. You must be aware of what is going on around you and cautious of what areas of your life are requiring more of you than others. For example, there are times when work takes more time, but I follow up with intentional time spent with my family. Find your people that will hold you accountable and help you when you need it most, whether that be friends, family or a mentor. My advice is to remember you are in control of you. You must make the call and not let areas of your life become unbalanced.

Meet THE Sta

CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE President and CEO

SHELLY NICHOLS Vice President ASHTIN WARREN Director, Talent Programs

JULIA KIMBRELL Communications and Events Coordinator

LYDIE BOONE Executive Assistant

Our mission is to provide leadership, advocacy and member services that foster growth and economic prosperity for our region.

MARCH MADNESS

Speaker: Stephen and Elizabeth Wampler

Sponsor: Wendell Foster Center

One of the rst things you’ll notice about Stephen Wampler visually is that he utilizes a wheelchair, because Steve has Cerebral Palsy (CP). Over the years he has learned not to only live with his disability, but to thrive in life with his condition. He wants to ensure that others with physical disabilities have the same opportunity as he has had so they can live a ful lling life.

In 2002, Steve and Elizabeth founded e Stephen J. Wampler Foundation, and “Camp Wamp” was opened in 2004. With the wilderness as the backdrop, kids enjoy the fun and camaraderie of camp life. With Steve as their inspiration, their experiences push each one to discover how capable they really are.

In 2010, Steve became the rst person with Cerebral Palsy to climb El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a vertical slab of rock twice the height of the Empire State Building. Wampler’s climb, which took 6 days and 20,000 pull-ups to complete, was featured in the award-winning documentary Wampler’s Ascent. Steve and Elizabeth have been featured in the New York Times, the Hollywood Reporter, the LA Times, the Village Voice, Good Morning America, e Ellen Show, Saturday Night Live, and ABC News. eir viral TikTok account (@the.wampler.way) has over 700,000 followers, 24.4 million likes, and

Wendell Foster is a non-pro t organization located in the heart of Owensboro whose mission is to empower people with disabilities to realize their dreams and potential. For decades, Wendell Foster has supported children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing services such as: on-site and community-based residential housing and supportive programs; physical, occupational, and speech therapy; assistive technology; a transportation program; day training; community programs; and more.

Over the years, Wendell Foster has grown from a single residential home at 815 Triplett Street to an extensive campus occupying six city blocks. In 2022, the organization provided more than 75,000 services to over 2,000 individuals across Kentucky and Indiana.

Upcoming fundraisers include the Annual Golf Scramble at Ben Hawes on June 16th, the Forever a Di erence Maker Gala on September 30th, and the Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K, returning to its inaugural month of March on March 23rd, 2024. Wendell Foster looks forward to hosting the race in a month that means so much to its mission: Disability Awareness Month.

76.9 million views. Steve and Elizabeth reside in Coronado, CA.

ROOSTER BOOSTER # 1

THE MONTH OF MARCH BROUGHT TWO SEPARATE ROOSTER BOOSTER EVENTS. HERE’S A RECAP.

ROOSTER BOOSTER # 2

An acclaimed speaker, Dee Robinson is an orecognized award-winning entrepreneur who works with individuals and organizations to overcome the fear that holds them back and instead amplify their communications, have the con dence to discuss di cult topics, and pursue their dreams, discovering their true purpose along the way. Her goal is to help clients live a bold life of service and signi cance. She leads and speaks with passion, guiding her audience to e ectively strengthen and elevate their vision to new heights. What shines through in both her work and her public speaking is her uncanny ability to instill courage and build courage circles to maximize ROP3—return on people, pro t, and purpose—and leave audiences intrigued and wanting to hear more.

Dee ideated, founded, and successfully scaled Robinson Hill, Inc., building a powerful reputation as an outstanding operator in driving sales, e ciency, innovation, and employee performance along the way. Leveraging comprehensive and integrated marketing strategies customized for key audiences to drive expansion, she spearheaded multiple capital development e orts and forged successful joint ventures and partnerships that further spurred growth. Robinson Hill subsequently grew to encompass over 60 airport and tourist-site restaurants and retail stores. Brands and partnerships in the company portfolio include notable names like Hudson Group, Frontera Grill, Ben & Jerry’s, Farmer’s Fridge, Potbelly, and Lettuce Entertain You.

Her subject matter expertise in successfully scaling companies led her to counsel other businesses to do the same.

Green River has brought a rich Kentucky Bourbon tradition back to Owensboro.

Originally founded in 1885, Green River (DSPKY-10) is the 10th oldest distillery in Kentucky. Prior to prohibition, Owensboro was one of the richest contributors to the bourbon industry with more than 20 distilleries. Green River, known as “the Whiskey Without Regrets,” was the o cial medicinal whiskey of the U.S. Marine Hospital and has been referenced as the most expensive whiskey ever sold - 20 barrels were once traded for an interest in a Colorado gold mine. Fire and prohibition relegated the brand to history before being reestablished in 2022.

Today, the “Whiskey Without Regrets” is bringing Owensboro’s rich bourbon heritage to life as the westernmost outpost of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. A gateway to east-bound visitors, it’s a short drive from St. Louis, Nashville and Evansville, Ind. e distillery welcomed nearly 10,000 visitors last year.

But beyond the distillery experience, Green River is about sharing high-quality, delicious Kentucky Bourbon. Following a highly successful four-state launch in 2022, Green River Distilling Co is expanding in 2023 with the release of Green River Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon, in complement to their agship high rye bourbon, in 25 markets across the United States.

Speaker: Dee Robinson

Sponsor: Green River Distillery

LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

WHEN:

Speakers:

WHERE: WH0:

Thursday, June 8, 2023 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum Downtown Owensboro

The Summit is a unique learning opportunity for leaders at all levels. The Summit will bring together community leaders.

COST: $150 each

$95 nonprofit employee rate

DEANGELO SIMMONS

DEE ROBINSON

BRACKEN DARRELL

Logitech President & CEO

BDS Sports CEO & Player Representative

Entrepreneur & Author Robinson Hill, Inc.

About the Greater Owensboro Leadership Summit

The Summit is a day packed with speakers and expert panelists focusing on leadership, innovation, partnerships, government, philanthropy, and service. The Summit provides a day of best practices, thought leadership, and encouragement for leaders. Dr. Stacy Edds-Ellis, Executive Director of the Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute, shared that the Summit was designed “to serve as a catalyst for leadership, fuel collaboration, and foster civic engagement in our community. This is an excellent opportunity for employers to develop their leadership talent pipeline and connect with other change makers.”

About the Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute

The vision of the Greater Owensboro Leadership Institute is to foster leadership for a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous community. By equipping people, organizations, communities, and networks with the tools to bridge divides, build capacity, and tackle shared challenges the Leadership Institute is a collective force for change.

Develop Civic Leaders

e Institute develops leadership capacity in our citizens by encouraging and training all walks of life to share their talents, skills, and ideas in a collaborative manner.

Create and Build Civic Trust

e Institute leverages citizens, develops leaders, and facilitates healthy processes for solving complex community challenges.

Facilitate Community Engagement

e Institute provides training, programming, and initiatives that fosters discourse, partnerships, and innovation toward a more equitable, fair, just, inclusive, and hopeful path forward.

Serve as a Convener

e Institute serves as a non-partisan conduit for the common good of our community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SUMMIT AND THE GREATER OWENSBORO LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE, PLEASE EMAIL DR. STACY EDDS-ELLIS AT SEDDS-ELLIS@OWENSBORO.COM

DR. STACY EDDS-ELLIS

RIBBON CUTTINGS

A TIME-HONORED TRADITION

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

ENTERPRISE TRUCK RENTAL

FLOURISH COUNSELING

KICKIN’ IT

LOVE YOURSELF BOUTIQUE

AUBREY’S SONG FOUNDATION FOR EATING DISORDERS

VETERANS EMPOWERED TOGETHER

Fun Facts!

At Ribbon Cuttings, there is a special presentation by Chamber Vice President Shelly Nichols followed by a presentation by a Chamber Ambassador. Ambassadors are Chamber volunteers and representatives of the local business community.

60

e Chamber hosts nearly 60 Ribbon Cuttings every year!

e Ribbon is exactly 16 Chamber logos long.

Businesses receive a customized plaque recognizing their Ribbon Cutting, a jar lled with business cards from those attending the event, as well as the ribbon following the o cial cut.

e cost is $200 for Chamber Member businesses and $50 for non-pro t organizations.

e Chamber invites elected o cials, Chamber Board Members, Ambassadors, and all our nearly 1000 Members to ribbon cuttings. We also promote the event via our weekly email newsletter and to the public via social media.

e scissors are real! Our Ribbon Cutting scissors are 33 inches long and weigh 7 pounds. ey require maintenance to keep them sharp!

CHAMBER CURRENT

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Amvets # 119

Bell Bank Mortgage

Bicycle Owensboro

Candi Cosmetics, Lash Artistry

Cleveland Cliffs

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

FLEX Wealth Management

Flourish Counseling

Crumbl Cookies

Hayden Precision Welding, LLC

IMD Home Inspection

Integrity Testing and Inspection

Isaac Sterett Adventure Foundation

Joys Cooking Classes| Joy-Full Meal Prep

Huck’s Market

McMahon Exterminating, Inc

RENEWALS

Grace Christian Academy of Owensboro

Great Harvest Bread Co.

Greater Owensboro Realtor Association

Green River Distilling Company

Gulfstream Commercial Services, LLC

Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown/Waterfront

HawesWay, Inc.

Hobgood Landscaping, LLC

Holiday Inn - Owensboro Riverfront

Houchens Insurance Group

Independence Bank

International Center of Kentucky

Jagoe Homes, Inc.

Jiffy Lube (Stonebriar Auto Services, LLC)

Junior League of Owensboro Kentucky Wesleyan College

Key Oil Company

L. Steve Castlen Realtors, Tyler Shookman

Labrador Consulting

Lamar Outdoor Advertising

Lark Electric, LLC

Leisure Hut of Owensboro, LLC

Liberty Federal Credit Union

Living Hope Community Church

Lure Seafood and Grille Marks CO., Inc.

Massie-Clarke Development Co.

McCarty’s Auto & Truck Repair

Mellow Mushroom Owensboro

Metalsa Structural Products

Milliken & Company Owensboro Specialty Polymers

Mercy Ambulance of Evansville, Inc.

NextEra Energy Resources

Orangetheory Fitness

Precision Garage Door of Owensboro Evansville

Riley and Co. Jewelers

Shiloh’s Lounge

Strive Health Kidney Care Center of Owensboro

Triple Crown Realty Group

Owensboro Dance Theatre, Inc.

Owensboro Family YMCA

Owensboro Goodwill Industries & Goodwill Job Placement Services

Owensboro Grain Company, LLC

Owensboro Regional Farmers Market

Owensboro Warehouse Leasing, LLC

PNC Bank

Puzzle Pieces, Inc.

RC Bratcher Radiator, Welding & Automotive

RE/MAX Professional Realty Group, Rick Cummins

RE/MAX Professional Realty Group, Scott

Lyons

Red Wing Shoes

Research Integrity, LLC

Rhoads & Rhoads, PSC Owensboro

Right to Life of Owensboro

RiverPark Center

Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Diocesan

Council of Western Kentucky, Inc.

St. Mary of the Woods Parish

The Blake Hayden Group

TrueNorth Treatment Center, LLC

Underground Vaults and Storage

Unique Granite & Marble

United Way of the Ohio Valley

Velotta Design

Ward Family Dentistry, PSC.

Wax Works, LLC

Wendell Foster

Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center

WEVV-TV

WFIE TV 14

Fraternal

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn, Inc.

Murphy Sewing Machine Company

New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services

Whittaker Guns

Wright Implement YellowBanks Lawn and Landscape, LLC

FLAVOR

Photo by JAMIE PLAIN

KAHAWA JAVA

Brewing Success

Written by LIBBY JOHNSON

Photos by JAMIE PLAIN

Kahawa Java opened this past August, and so far, business has been the opposite of a slow drip. Owned and operated by the mother-daughter duo Ticy (“tee-ce”) and Ayanna Cox, the cofee shop is the only one on the West side of the city. While the location is certainly part of the appeal, the quality cofee and the friendly staf are decided perks.

The idea of being in the cofee biz had been on the Cox’s radar long before the shop opened. In 2019, Ayanna—an Apollo grad—was a student at WKU and Ticy—a native of Indianapolis who was Director of Dismas Charities in Owensboro—discussed the idea of starting a cofee truck. Of course, as they were in the midst of dreaming and planning, the pandemic hit, and plans were put on hold. Ayanna graduated WKU with a bachelors in Healthcare Administration in 2021, and in October of that year, Ticy left Dismas. Talk of a cofee truck resumed and turned serious. At one point, Ticy was headed to Nashville to put down a deposit on having a custom cofee truck built, but had a revelation on the eve of the drive and decided to look at local properties. When she saw the current space in West Parrish Shopping Center, just down from Donatos, she said, “This is it!”

She called Ayanna, who was living in Houston at the time, and asked what she thought about a brickand-mortar store instead. “I wanted a brick-andmortar store from the beginning,” Ayanna recalls, “but Mom did not.” Thrilled about her mom’s reversal of thought, Ayanna was all in, and came back to town to transform the space according to her aesthetic vision. The two did much of the work themselves, just as they do on a daily basis in the shop each day.

Ayanna worked at Dunkin Donuts for a long stint as a teen, so she knew how to brew cofee on a commercial scale and perform barista tricks of the trade. Ticy had experience in the restaurant industry that made setting up points of sale and fnding suppliers less daunting. “Our roaster—Frothy

Monkey, out of Nashville—came in and did a training, as well,” says Ayanna.

Both women are proud of the excellence of their beans. They discovered Frothy Monkey on a trip to Nashville for Ayanna’s birthday a few years ago. The two humbly attribute the quality of their brews to the success of the endeavor. Ticy says business “just took of” from day one,” and has been so good that there have been days “we wonder ‘what did we get into?’” They often have regulars waiting on them when they get to the store at about 6:40 a.m. for the 7 a.m. opening.

Ticy says they have between 25 to 30 regulars they see every day and that group is a mix of age ranges. “We have a lot of OCHS and OHS kids,” she says, but the demographic of their patrons is quite a variety. They, and the two additional baristas they employ, see a consistent morning rush that lasts a couple hours, followed by a midday rush, and then some afternoon stragglers each day. “Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, we are busy all day,” they say.

The store does catering, as well, bringing their cafeinated wares to local churches and businesses upon request. OL

What’s your go-to drink in the shop?

T: 12 oz hot latte with bourbon syrup and to ee nut

A: 12 oz hot latte with 1 pump vanilla, 2 pumps to ee nut, ½ a pump caramel, and oat milk

Favorite book of all time:

T: Becoming by Michelle Obama

A: Atomic Habits by James Clear

If you’re in charge of the tunes in the shop, what’s playing?

T: Boney James

A: Giveon

What is the one place you haven’t been to, but are dying to get to:

In unison: Italy!

Describe the vibe of Kahawa Java in 4 words or less:

T: upscale, but not stu y

A: comfortable, modern

COFFEE TALK WITH TICY AND AYANNA

Oh, Honey!

There’s a lot to love about honey! This all-natural sweetener boasts some health benefts and can be added to a lot of your favorite recipes to add just the right amount of sweetness. The recipes below are some of our favorite ways to incorporate honey into diferent types of dishes. Make sure to grab a jar of honey local to Owensboro for an amazing fresh taste!

Hot Honey Fried Chicken

INGREDIENTS:

Frying oil

4-6 Boneless Chicken Thighs

Buttermilk

Hot Sauce

2 cups four

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

Brioche Buns

HOT HONEY:

1 cup honey

4 tablespoons butter

1 tsp cayenne

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (more to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, toss your (trimmed) chicken thighs in seasoning, then top everything with buttermilk (until they are completely covered in a pool of it). Add hot sauce to taste (I usually do around 1/2 cup or more). Cover and marinate 24 hours before frying.

2. In a bowl, mix four with the same amount of spices used in the marinade. One at a time, remove each chicken

from buttermilk marinade and dredge in four/spices until completely coated. Let them rest on the baking sheet as you prepare to fry.

3. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Working in small batches (do not overcrowd) fry chicken until golden brown and has an internal temp of 165. If not deep frying, fip the chicken at around 7min.

4. Prepare your hot honey. In a small saucepan, melt 4 Tbsp butter, then add the honey and spices. Stir until thinned out and drop each piece of chicken in to give them all a quick coating.

5. Toast your brioche buns in butter and build your sandwiches with any topping you’d like.

Recipes and photos by JAMIE PLAIN

Baked Sigara Borek with Chili Honey

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose four

1 stick of butter, softened

1 cup honey

3 large eggs

1/4 tsp almond extract

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

HONEY CHILI SAUCE:

5 Tbsp Honey

1 Tbsp Olive oil

1 tsp Chili pepper fakes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 425. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix feta, honey, garlic, thyme leaves, paprika, salt and pepper.

3. Gently brush half a sheet of phyllo sheet with olive oil, then fold the nonbrushed side over top so that the entire thing is doubledup and half its original size. Add around 1 tablespoon of the feta mixture on the bottom edge of the Phyllo. Brush the sides with oil and fold the edges in to envelope the sides of the feta mixture, then brush a bit more oil and roll it up like a burrito.

4. Brush all the rolls with a bit more oil and top with salt. Bake for 20min or until golden brown.

5. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan on low heat until it is hot and thinned out.

Honey Cake Infused with Black Tea

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose four

1 stick of butter, softened

1 cup honey

3 large eggs

1/4 tsp almond extract

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

BLACK TEA INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP:

2 cups water

2 cups sugar

3 black tea bags

1. Preheat the oven to 350 and heavily grease a 9” cake pan.

2. Prepare the simple syrup by boiling two cups of water on the stove before removing from heat and adding in your tea bags. Steep the tea for the instructed time (on the tea box) and then remove the bags from the water. Add the two cups of sugar and stir until it has completely dissolved (store the syrup in the fridge for up to a month after using it on the cake - it can be used in drinks and other sweet recipes!)

3. In a large bowl, whisk together four, salt, and baking soda. In another bowl, beat butter and honey together with a hand mixer until butter is smooth and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time while beating the mixture well after each addition. Add almond extract, then the dry ingredients and beat until barely combined. Then add the sour cream and beat until barely combined.

4. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, and bake for around 35 minutes (until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean). Let cool before brushing with the black tea simple syrup. OL

The “Best Of”

Owensboro in a Pre-Digital Age

Written by LORA WIMSATT

Voting has been tallied for the annual “Best Of” awards, and winners are rightly proud to know their customers and clients have taken the time to cast their ballots in their favor.

These awards are a relatively new phenomenon, made easier in these days of online voting, where a simple “click” determines the best of … well, just about every category that can be named.

One hundred years ago, it wasn’t so easy. Businesses and products competed for customers through advertising and word of mouth. While we have few documented records of what people were actually saying to their families and neighbors, we can browse through the archives of vintage newspapers to find out who and what were the “best of” Owensboro in 1923.

Local businesses touted amenities that may seem strange to us today, given that we take so much for granted. For example, Frank B. Lucas – a grocer located at 515 W. Ninth St. – promised their “nice, fresh meats” were “kept in a sanitary manner,” as well as “handled by an experienced meat cutter.”

Likewise, Piggly Wiggly, at 116 W. Main, assured shoppers of limited financial means that they were welcome in that store. “We do not size you up by the size of your purchase. Though your purchase is small, you are as welcome as any,” an advertisement dated May 12, 1923, began, going on to assure potential customers that theirs was a store

“where the moderate purchaser can buy her small needs without embarrassment.”

Meanwhile, Karn & Carpenter Druggists promised “you can be absolutely certain that the compounding will be done EXACTLY per the directions of the physician –that the purest of fresh drugs ONLY will be used.”

And there’s nothing like a little peer pressure to bring the customers in. J.O. Sourbeer & Co. (204-206 E. Main St.) advertised all-metal refrigerators that would “pay for themselves in a year’s time in the saving of ice” with prices starting at $20. “Your Neighbor Trades With Us, Why Not You,” they wanted to know. It wasn’t only local goods and services that were marketed. National brands also promoted the excellence of their products through newspaper advertisements.

Wrigley’s Gum warned readers that “most of us eat too hastily and do not chew our food enough,” but they

had the solution: “If people realized how much more good their food would do them if properly masticated and followed up with a bit of Wrigley’s to assist the digestive process, we’d have far better health.”

Maxwell House Coffee reminded Owensboro residents that their brew is “good to the last drop,” while another ad urged potential buyers to “accept ‘Bayer Tablets of Aspirin’ only.” That ad bragged that physicians had been prescribing their product for more than 22 years for ailments ranging from colds and toothaches to lumbago and rheumatism. (The ad did not mention that Bayer was also the first company to sell heroin as a cough suppressant.)

Other local service providers jockeying for the attention and patronage of their customers were the Owensboro Home Telephone & Telegraph Co., which encouraged readers to try “Home Long Distance … On Your Next Call To Louisville.”

Ratican Coal & Lumber Co., located

at Ninth and Lewis streets, offered what they said was “the best grades of Railroad and Ratican Coal at attractive prices.” Likewise, Union Station Drug Store boasted, “We have the best fountain in town” as they lured buyers in for their “drugs, sick room and school supplies.”

Elite Cigar Co. urged smokers to “get a good cigar from the Charles Thomson tin. Thousands of men in these parts are doing it.”

Short Bros. Motor Co. Inc. touted a Chevrolet Utility Coupe for only $680 – but the “superior model” automobile could also be purchased “on easy terms of $190 cash payment and the balance in fifteen monthly installments.”

Once one owned such a prize, he would, of course, want to keep it clean. Standing by ready to help out was the Auto Laundry at Owensboro Undertaking and Livery association (316 W. Third St.)! “Have Your Car Washed,” their ad trumpeted. “With all that dust and mud off, it will look a hundred per cent better,” they said, adding that theirs was “the best car washer in town, giving prompt service and low prices.”

Who could ask for more?

These businesses – and many others – were among the “Best Of” Owensboro 100 years ago. Congratulations to this year’s winners, and we hope your services will still be celebrated in 2123! OL