Owensboro Living - January/February 2023

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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Trending B E H I N D

THE SCENES

EDITORIAL EDITOR

EDITOR’S NOT E

Steven Wilson

Finding the Help You Need in 2023 The New Year is a time for resolutions. No matter what stage of life we’re in, most of us have at least one part of ourselves that we’d like to improve. A new calendar represents a chance for a fresh start, and an opportunity to make change for the better. While most consider it a great time to lose weight or get in shape, we all know that’s easier said than done. Unfortunately, in addition to time constraints and the convenience of unhealthy eating, most folks have other life obstacles they must overcome before they can focus on bettering themselves. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone!

Our community offers a wealth of resources, including physicians and nutritionists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals, personal trainers, and support groups made up of fellow Owensboroans whose goals are similar to your own.

PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Libby Johnson John Kirkpatrick Marlys Mason Danny May Kristi McCabe Laura Murphy Dana Peveler Jamie Plain Allyson Sanders Lora Wimsatt

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

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Brock Quinton

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

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

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY C O V E R I L L U S T R AT I O N

Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health or your mental well-being , finding someone to take that journey with you is a great place to start. And it is our hope that you’ll find that help in the pages of this issue, begin your path to a better you, and make the most of your 2023!

Mark Caneso

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

Jamie Plain

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

Andrea Roberson AD DESIGNER

Monica Tapp

DISTRIBUTION

STEVEN WILSON, EDITOR

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

steven@owensboroliving.com

Dave Mackey

To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 270-297-1600.

WH AT I ’ M R E A D I NG L I ST E N IN G TO

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We all get busy during the holiday season, and with a packed schedule, I’ve found a little less time to read.

But there’s always time for a podcast going to and from work. Recently, I finished the series “Uncivil,” which was released in 2017, and won a Peabody Award for excellence in broadcasting. Through 12 episodes, the hosts examine what most of us learn about the Civil War in school, and then flip that narrativeç on its head. By adding little-known facts and real-life stories to the popular accounts of the war, Jack Hitt and Chenjerai Kumanyika create thought-provoking content that will make you question the history you thought you knew.

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

Contents

JAN/ FEB 2023 TRENDING 6 BEHIND

THE SCENES

A note from our editor.

10 N E W S W O R T H Y

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

CULTURE 14 M U S I C

Rhonda Vincent: Living Her Best Life

14 I N

THE KNOW

Your guide to what’s happening in and around Owensboro

18 A R T

Katie Cecil: The Florist and the Farmer

HEALTH & WELLNESS SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

42 A C T I V E

Getting (and Staying) Active in Owensboro

46 M E N TA L

H E A LT H

F ocusing on Mental Health

53 Get the Most from your 1st Therapy Session 53 S E N I O R

20 WOMEN IN POLITICS Pam Smith-Wright and Janie Marksberry bring unique perspectives to local politics.

B Y M A R LY S M A S O N

24 FINDING SOMEONE TO FILL HIS SHOES

Terry Moss nears retirement with hopes of training an apprentice to run his shop.

BY LIBBY JOHNSON

LIVING

Making Your Food Work for You

FEATURES

22 PUZZLE PIECES LIP SYNC BATTLE

62 S AV I N G

Eating Healthy on a Budget

The much-anticipated annual fundraiser is back. Hear from the participants about preparing for the event.

B Y J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K

28 THE 2023 WEDDING GUIDE

Find everything you need to plan your perfect day.

FLAVOR

66 R E S TA U R A N T

SPOTLIGHT

City Walk: A Flare for City Fare

68 R E C I P E S

Easy-To-Make Healthy Snacks

71 D I S H

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Trending N E W S W O R T H Y

5 things we’re talking about now

2 Aid the Homeless Aid the Homeless

donated a total of $8,000 to local shelters, Crossroads and My Sister’s Keeper, on Friday.

It marks the second round of funds given out by the local charity this year, as Aid the Homeless donated $20,000 to JOSH KELLY

Aid the Homeless is

Photo by

other shelters in May.

Owensboro Realtor

a charity founded by the Greater Association to help support important

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Family Court Judges Sworn In Jennifer Hendricks and Angela Thompson were sworn in on December 15 for their upcoming roles as Daviess County’s Family Court Judges, with a big crowd in attendance to celebrate the milestone. Hendricks will officially serve as the Circuit Division 3 judge, a position created in 2016. Thompson was elected as

organizations that serve to shelter those in need.

Since its inception, Aid the Homeless has donated over

the Circuit Division 4 judge, a position created earlier this year. That means

$408,000 to local

this will be the first time there have been two dedicated Family Court judges in

area homeless

Daviess County.

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community

Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

shelters.

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

Photo by

JOSH KELLY

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Shop With a Cop Sergeant Loren Yonts organizes the local Shop With

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a Cop through the

DCHS Dance Preparing for Nationals

Owensboro Police Department. This

Daviess County High School dance finished as runners up in the hip-hop

year, 112 children

division of the KHSAA statewide competition. Now the Lady Panthers are

participated in the

looking ahead to nationals, making the trip to Orlando to compete from March 3-5.

program, with each child able to buy $150 of clothes and toys for Christmas.

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Yonts said it’s

Gun Club Named in Honor of Mattingly

important to the officers to help the community beyond their daily duties, and they hope to show that

The Daviess County Gun

police officers are

Club has been renamed in

approachable.

honor of retiring JudgeExecutive

Al

Mattingly.

The facility will now be called the Mattingly Target Shooting Range at Pup Creek Park. Daviess County Fiscal Court voted 3-1 in favor of the name change — with Mattingly casting the dissenting vote — during their meeting in December. A new sign was unveiled and presented to Mattingly, who thanked the commissioners

Photo by

JOSH KELLY

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

and head of the gun club for the honor.

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MUSIC: RHONDA VINCENT LIVING HER BEST LIFE p. 14

IN THE KNOW: 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR p. 14

ART: KATIE CECIL - THE FLORIST AND THE FARMER p. 18

→

Photo by

REBECCA ADLER

CULTURE

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Culture M U S I C

Living Her Best Life Written by D A N N Y M AY Photo by R E B E C C A A D L E R

BLUEGRASS ARTIST RHONDA VINCENT LOOKS FORWARD TO HER MARCH 24 PERFORMANCE AT THE BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

IN THE KNOW 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR

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THE GREATEST SHOWMAN INTERACTIVE FILM EXPERIENCE JA N UA RY 6 @ R I V E R PA RK C E N T E R

The RPC Shadow Cast Crew will perform alongside the film in Cannon Hall!

The audience will receive a goodie bag to use throughout the film to enhance your interactive experience. Sing along with the film! Dance with the shadow cast! Dress up as your favorite character!

The event takes place from 7-9 p.m., and tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

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WAR JA NUA RY 7 @ R I V E R PA R K CE NT E R

Multi-platinum-selling WAR, the original street band, has been sharing its timeless music and message of brotherhood and harmony for over 4 decades before millions across the globe. The long list of hits includes “Low Rider,” “The World Is A Ghetto,” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends”. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.

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LIP SYNC BATTLE JA NUA RY 14 @ OWE NSB ORO CONV E NT I ON CE NT E R

The Owensboro Lip Sync Battle will return on January 14, 2023, at the Owensboro Convention Center.

Tickets are on sale now! This will be the sixth annual event, which serves as the primary fundraiser for Puzzle Pieces, a local nonprofit that supports more than 400 individuals with disabilities.

Emcees Chad Benefield and Angel Welsh of WBKR will return this year to host the festivities.

Just for fun, we asked Rhonda to comment on some of her most streamed songs.

Rhonda credits her father, Johnny Rhonda Vincent is no stranger to Owensboro. She performed at ROMP Vincent, and Grandpa, Bill Vincent, in 2019 and had the honor of being as direct influences. She mentioned featured on the first episode of the them on her episode of “My Bluegrass first season of “My Bluegrass Story,” Story” when she reminisced on how a TV show that was filmed on location they waited for her to come home at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & from school every afternoon so Museum. On March 24, Rhonda and they could play music together until her band, “The Rage,” will take the supper. Then others would come over stage at the Bluegrass Music Hall of and they’d keep playing and singing Fame for what is sure to be a fun and another couple hours. That was just entertaining show. normal life for her growing up. As “After 2020, we have a deeper for other influences, she remembers appreciation of getting to play the listening to the Osborne Brothers, music we love. With our touring back Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, Loretta to normal, thankful and grateful is Lynn, Connie Smith, and The Grand what we are right now,” Vincent said Ole Opry radio broadcast every Friday in an email to Owensboro Living when and Saturday night. asked what she was most looking Singing seems to have come forward to in the new year. naturally to Rhonda. According to her The band is working on a new bio, she started singing harmony with project, so fans can expect to hear her parents to the “Happy Birthday” some new tunes at the show on March song on the way to a birthday party 24, but Rhonda says we can also expect when she was 3 years old. Her first the same level of energy she is known recording came at the early age of 5 for. “We love performing years old when she sang RHONDA’S MANTLE the music but we also love two songs on a Sally FULL OF AWARDS having fun, and do our best Mountain Singers album.

INCLUDES: to be sure everyone has as (The Vincent family had 2 0 1 7 G RA M M Y F O R B EST B LU EGRASS A L B U M much fun as we do.” a radio show called “The

GETTING TO KNOW RHONDA Originally from the tiny town of Greentop, Missouri, Rhonda’s musical heritage traces back 5 generations of the Vincent family.

Her daughter Sally is now continuing the musical tradition into the sixth generation.

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E N T E RTA IN E R O F T H E YEAR 2001 SONG OF THE YEAR 2004 A N U N P REC E D E N T E D 7 C O N S EC U T IV E F E M A L E VO CA L I ST O F T H E Y E A R AWA RD S F RO M T H E I N T E RN AT IO N A L B LU EGRASS M U S IC ASS O C I AT I O N 2 0 0 0 – 2 0 0 6 A N 8 T H W IN O F IB M A F E M A L E VO CA L IST O F T H E Y E A R IN 2 0 1 5

STOMP JA N UA RY 1 7 @ R I V E RPA RK C E NT E R

STOMP is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique—an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national television shows. Come see what all the noise is about.

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JOLENE ( 1. 9 M I LLI ON LI ST E NS ON SP OT I F Y )

“I was finding the perimeters of my music back then. I almost removed Jolene from the album, feeling it was too progressive, but a friend listened and loved it and thankfully so. It’s one of our most requested.”

IF WE DON’T ( 1. 5 M I LLI ON LI ST E NS ON SP OT I F Y ) W I T H A LLI SON K R AU S A ND D OLLY PA R TO N , F O R T H E M OV I E D U M P LI N

“I was in the studio with Dolly and the producer.

I recorded on camera. I’d never done that before. They filmed the actual recording.

Being with Dolly is always amazing. I was most surprised when I watched the movie Dumplin, and that song was in the car scene. It’s the first movie I’ve ever played mandolin in. So exciting.”

MAMA TRIED (8 12, 000 LI ST E NS ON SP OT I FY )

“I was part of the Merle Haggard tribute on the TV show ‘Country’s Family Reunion’. It’s been a great song for us, and I sang it right after my Grand Ole Opry induction with Dierks Bentley.

So it will forever be a special song to me. The first song I sang as an official Opry member on 2/6/2021.”

Sally Mountain Show” where Rhonda became a featured singer.)

She’s also a gifted instrumentalist. Her dad, Johnny, bought her a snare drum for her 6th birthday, a mandolin when she was 8, and after that she learned every stringed instrument she

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY: CINEMATIC ROMANCE JA N UA RY 2 8 @ R I V E R PA R K CE NT E R

Lights, camera, action! Enjoy an evening of Hollywood’s most romantic movie scores with music from Gone with the Wind, Romeo and Juliet, and Casablanca. The audience will be captivated by violin soloist Sandy Cameron with her performance of Danny Elfman’s Edward Scissorhands Suite, “Love Theme” from Cinema Paradiso, and more. Declared “brilliant” by the Washington Post, Cameron is one of the most strikingly unique artists of her generation.

KENTUCKY BORDERLINE (69 9 , 000 LI ST E NS ON SP OT I FY )

“I wrote that Song of the Year with bluegrass broadcaster Terry Herd. I called his house and sang a musical idea I had on his phone. It ended up being the last 2 words. Kentucky Borderline.

Terry came up with the content and even researched where that actual train routed to make it historically correct. That continues to be a great song for us, and I sang it recently for a filming with The American Pops Orchestra.”

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YOUR PERFECT DAY WEDDING SHOW JA NUA RY 29 @ OWE NSB OR O CO N V E N T I O N CE NT E R

Need help planning your wedding? The Your Perfect Day Wedding Show will be held on Sunday, January 29 from Noon to 4:00pm at the Owensboro Convention Center. Meet with trusted area wedding professionals displaying popular trends and unique offerings, register for a chance to win door prizes, and more.

Admission is $3 for Adults. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets will be available at the door.

→

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Culture M U S I C could get her hands on. That mandolin, by the way, is now in the “My Bluegrass Story” exhibit in the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum.

Her turning point came when she was a teenager, when the general manager at the Grand Ole Opry happened to be in the audience and heard Rhonda performing with her family at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. A week later, the Vincent family got a call inviting them to appear on the Opry.

Rhonda spent what she calls her “musical college years” recording for Giant Records and learning about the music business from Nashville’s best.

Her pivotal bluegrass album, “Back Home Again,” transformed Rhonda Vincent into the AllAmerican Bluegrass Girl, and she was crowned the “New Queen of Bluegrass” by The Wall Street Journal in 2000. Her lifelong dream came true when she was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry on February 6, 2021.

TODAY These days, Rhonda and her husband of 39 years live in Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri.

“My husband and I love the laid-back atmosphere,” Vincent said. “We lived in Kirksville near my hometown for most of our married life, so our kids would grow up in a small school. The

entire school from K to 12 was in the same building.

We’re definitely not city people. We prefer a country feel, with deer and turkey roaming our property.”

She says it’s her favorite place to reset before going back out on the road.

Though they still have a place in Nashville, Vincent still considers Missouri “home” and has never forgotten her small town roots. I asked Rhonda if her hometown, Greentop (northwest Missouri), was similar to Owensboro. “My mom still lives there in the same town we grew up in. It’s truly a sleepy little town and I love it. When I visit there now, there’s an instant relief from any stress or worry. It’s just a quiet town of my mother and dearest friends. I think my friend ‘Toadie’ is 94. I love going to visit with her. She doesn’t have internet or cable TV. She listens to the radio for her news, and reads the newspaper. It’s a simple life, and I love it.”

COMING BACK TO OWENSBORO That small town sentiment and lifetime of musical influence will be on full display when Rhonda takes the stage at the Hall of Fame on March 24. It’s just who she is, living her best life.

What does Rhonda think about performing at the Hall of Fame & Museum? “The new facility is stunning. I love that bluegrass music has a home.”

“I grew up performing with my family at bluegrass festivals, like many of my bandmates.

We all share a passion for bluegrass music and a tremendous love for playing festivals. It’s like a homecoming for us at every festival, and it’s the people who attend that share that same love of the music that makes each festival special.”

- R HONDA V I NCE NT, COM M E NT I NG ON HE R P E R FORMA N C E AT R OM P 2019

IN THE KNOW 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR

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REGIONAL DIVERSITY CONFERENCE FE BR UA RY 2-3 @ O C TC

This event provides the region with ways to incorporate diversity, equity. and inclusion into everyday organizational culture.

Scheduled presenters for the conference include: Dr. SG Carthell, Executive Director, Multicultural Initiatives, Student Leadership & Inclusive Excellence – Murray State University; Abigail Cox, Director, Women’s Center and Pride Center – Murray State University; Joseph Frazier, Executive Director, Center for DE&I – Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. Admission is free.

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NIGHT TO SHINE HOSTED BY LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH FE B R UA RY 10 @ OWE NSB OR O CONV E NT I ON CE NT E R

Life Community Church in Owensboro is excited to partner once again with the Tim Tebow Foundation and host Night to Shine – an unforgettable prom night experience for people with special needs ages 14 and older. Registration for attendees and volunteers is now open, and admission is free.

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LORRIE MORGAN FE B R UA RY 10 @ R I V E RPA RK CE NT E R

Lorrie Morgan, the first woman in her genre to begin her career with three consecutive Platinum albums, is back in the studio with award-winning producer Richard Landis, working on a new album. Come see her live at the RiverPark Center. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and tickets are available now.

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Culture A R T

The Florist and the Farmer Written by M A R LY S M A S O N

Photo by K AT I E R H O D E S P H O T O G R A P H Y

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K

atie Cecil is a second-generation farmer at Cecil Farms. But running her own florist business at Cecil Farms was not her original plan when she returned to Daviess County in 2017.

Cecil previously worked at Chick-Fil-A as a marketing director in Nashville, but returned to manage wholesale produce distribution for the family farm where she oversees the produce team. Her long list of duties includes oversight of seeding in the greenhouse, transplanting in the spring, and scheduling daily harvesting in the summer.

In addition to her day-to-day duties on the farm, her dad also had the idea for her to grow some flowers. So he gave her seed packets of zinnias to plant in various locations that were too small to farm or were not the right soil mixture for crops. She didn’t know much about growing flowers at first, but soon she had enough to take to the Owensboro Regional Farmer’s Market, where she was already taking produce to sell at the Cecil Farms booth.

“People started buying the fresh-cut flowers and we were onto something,” she said. “Zinnias are not hard to grow – they kind of take care of themselves.”

Out of this came Katie Ann’s Flowers, a small business at the time.

In 2019, White Chateau opened at Cecil Farms and Suzanne Cecil and Katie decided to add event florals to the event experiences that were being booked at the venue.

“My first event was a cousin’s wedding,” she said. “Suzanne is who said that I could order flowers at cost, so that was my first go at ordering and arranging.”

Katie began taking online courses from well-known professionals in the floral industry. She learned how to make bouquets, boutonnieres and centerpieces for the upcoming wedding and began studying what flowers went together and what seasons to grow certain flowers and varieties.

“I did overorder,” she said of the wedding, but she also did some advanced pieces. “I just jumped in.”

October of 2019 was Katie’s first paid florist job for a wedding and the photographs of the flowers were featured in Kentucky Bride, an award-winning bridal magazine. Since then, Katie’s flowers have been featured four more times in the magazine and online.

Photo by K AT I E R H O D E S P H O T O G R A P H Y

Photo by J A C Q U E L I N E R U S S E L L

Photo by J A C Q U E L I N E R U S S E L L

Cecil now grows flowers for clients throughout Western Kentucky and designs more than 30 weddings each year that use her flowers and greenery. She uses those same plots of land to grow the “random fillers” she uses for weddings and also what she dries to make wreaths. She also hosts classes at the farm where people make their own wreaths from her greenery.

Using heirloom seeds, something she adds to every year, Katie is able to incorporate her own flowers and greenery into the weddings and events for which she creates arrangements. She has partnered with White Chateau for several shows but said that many times, she is not able to because of timing.

“I am involved in agricultural programs and the dates collide,” she said. “The programs require a lot of travel – and that is the season of life.”

At the beginning of 2022, Katie was one of 22 individuals selected for the Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program, an intensive leadership development experience that she said was an honor to have been selected to participate in. Many of Katie’s family members and friends have gone through the two-year program, so she knew what to expect.

In November of 2022, Katie was named Kentucky Farm Bureau’s Generation Bridge Advocate of the Year because of her involvement with KFB at the state and national level in conversations about farming and farm labor. She also created The Academy at Cecil Farms, a year-long program to provide interactive farming for school-age children.

Katie sees more males in her farming community and programming, but she said that within the flower industry, she has “leaned into” other women in the area who work with flowers, especially Lindsay Hart, the owner of Petal and Pine Design.

“She brought me on board, and she doesn’t see me as competition,” Katie said.

She also credits local florists who purchase flowers from her when in season, including Meagan Cooley, who previously owned a flower truck and now has a storefront in Owensboro in Old Town Shopping Center.

“We can all sit at the table,” she said. OL

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Features

Women in Politics Written by M A R LY S M A S O N

Owensboro and Daviess County each elected a woman to their commission in the past election. Both come with a wealth of knowledge – Pam Smith-Wright from her years on the city commission, and newcomer Janie Marksberry, who ran for the first time this year and brings her real estate and farming knowledge to the county commission.

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Pam Smith-Wright has been involved in the Owensboro political scene for over a decade. She left the city commission after five terms as a city commissioner for a 2020 mayoral run and has returned to a city commission seat in the 2022 election.

Smith-Wright said her major motivating factor in originally running for city commission was that the commission did not look like our community.

“It was five white men,” she said. “We’ve come a long way from that.”

She is quick to say that there is – and was – nothing wrong with the men serving, but that city government needs to reflect the community it represents Prior to the commission and even still, Smith-Wright served on several community boards, which helped with name and face recognition when she ran originally.

“People understood if I said I was going do something, I would,” she said.

When, in 2011, Smith-Wright served as the first woman Mayor Pro Tem, she said people were in a state of shock as she was elected with the highest vote count in that election.

“I was trusted by then-mayor Ron Payne,” she said. “He allowed me to represent the city and trusted me with that position.”

Smith-Wright has served through several controversial city endeavors, including the downtown revitalization and the building of Smothers Park. She realizes that she is not going to make everyone happy, so she goes with the majority.

“I realize that if I gave every citizen a one-thousand-dollar bill, someone would be upset theirs was wrinkled,” she said laughing.

Smith-Wright is visible in the community and attends many events. While at events and in public, Smith-Wright really listens to community members about issues the commission hears. This term, it will be the boat dock versus the senior center, she said.

She has an interest in both and said that while most people are uninterested unless it is something that affects them, she wants to do what is necessary to help.

“Everybody wants what they want, and most don’t care who gets hurt,” she said of the conversations around both topics.

Smith-Wright uses her born-and-raised-here perspective, along with being a woman and Black, in her leadership role.

“I enjoy it and I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t enjoy it,” she said.

“I bring a different perspective because my life is different from the others who serve. I see things differently.”

Smith-Wright believes there is room for more women to serve and said that Janie Marksberry’s position as the first woman to serve as a Daviess County Commissioner proves it.

She added that most women are so busy it is difficult for them to serve, but reaffirmed that we need them.

“They need to take the time, be a part of it, find the time,” she said.

Smith-Wright isn’t sure what this term will hold because she said this run was different than her last campaigns. Her husband Eugene had a stroke and died in August, and she was reeling from that for most of the election cycle. But her husband is what kept her going.

“When we realized he wasn’t getting better, I told him I maybe needed to pull out [of the race] and he said ‘Don’t you

dare’,” she said.

Friends stepped in and put out signs.

She said she didn’t make it to the Red, White, and Blue event at the courthouse and didn’t mail fliers. She wondered how that would affect her candidacy.

“I am thankful for the city of Owensboro, who trusts me enough to give me another term,” she said. “People voted for me on my record…I am grateful for that trust in me as the longest-serving female on the commission.”

Janie Marksberry was motivated to run for east county commissioner because of property rights. She has lived on a working farm most of her life, worked for 15 years as an appraiser and now owns Marksberry Real Estate.

“From my time as an appraiser, I feel like I have a good knowledge of the roads and which roads flood,” she said.

The Outer Loop proposal, she felt, was sprung on the public during the pandemic.

“The total lack of transparency was a huge factor in my consideration [to run for office],” she said. “I felt because everyone was scared and hunkered down in their homes, this study could slip past us without our true knowledge or understanding. I feel like we, as a large group, exposed that plan and stifled it for now.”

Focusing on her new position as the east county commissioner, Marksberry said that she is excited to work with all of the commissioners, all of whom are new to the commission.

“I am very excited,” she said.

“We have met and all have different personalities, but mesh well together.”

Marksberry hopes to transform the old way into the modern way of doing

business.

“We need to run our county like an efficient and successful business and one that works for all of the people,” Marksberry said. “Whether large corporations or small business owners, everyone needs to believe they can do business here in Daviess County.”

She believes that being more business-friendly and implementing “commonsense” property decisions will allow entrepreneurs to succeed.

“The idea of infringing on an individual’s personal and property rights in the same ‘good ole boy’ system is no longer productive for the people,” she said.

Marksberry wants to be remembered and known for the good she brought to the community.

“Yet, because I am a woman, I hope to inspire other women to step up and out of their comfort zone. We need the wisdom and understanding that comes with being a woman, along with the grit and determination to see things through.”

Marksberry wants women to become passionate about helping society and to prioritize what is important to them and their community.

“Then follow your instincts of what is needed along with talking to as many people as possible to assess and understand their issues,” she said. “I think women have unique qualities of keen observation that sometimes eludes our male counterparts.” OL

“I hope to inspire other women to step up and out of their comfort zone. We need the wisdom and understanding that comes with being a woman, along with the grit and determination to see things through.”- JA NI E M A R KSB E R RY “I bring a different perspective because my life is different from the others who serve. I see things differently.”- PA M SM I T H-WR IG H T

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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Features PUZZLE PIECES

Lip Sync Battle Written by J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K Photos by A P I M A G E R Y

Puzzle

Pieces

hosts

many

fundraisers and events throughout the year, but none are more famous than its annual Lip Sync Battle, which will take place on January 14. The battle pits local teams against each other through lip-sync performances, complete with choreography, elaborate costuming,

inspiration stems from the loss of her

me to keep my daughter’s name and

daughter, Roxanne, who passed away

memory alive.”

from a brain tumor in November 2019.

Leonard traces her relationship

The event raised over $140,000 in

The Hose Handlers typically challenge

with Owen back to their childhood days,

2022, and organizers expect to exceed

the Handcuff Hunnies – wives of local

which includes memories with Owen’s

that number in 2023. Eight teams will

police officers – but are excited to

brother Nick, who was her primary

square off this year in one-on-one

be part of the first-ever three-team

inspiration for creating Puzzle Pieces.

matches, while three former champions

challenge.

Owen left her career in special education

and pyrotechnics.

“The

the

and created Puzzle Pieces more than

Two of those former championship

police department used to battle, and

a decade ago to offer her brother and

teams are Mom Squad, a group of

I think the guys got tired of doing it,”

other students a community center to

Whitesville

Thomas-Pickrell

socialize with peers and learn skills for

will face off in the grand finale.

moms,

and

the

Hose

fire

department

said.

and

“However,

Handlers, a team of firefighters’ wives.

to my understanding, it was one of

Leslie Leonard of the Mom Squad said

the crowd’s favorite battles. Amanda

Remaining close friends into their

her group first entered the contest

thought it may be fun to recruit fire and

adult lives, Leonard remains steadfast

when it was held virtually amid the

police wives to take their place, so we

in her efforts to support Owen and her

pandemic, while the Hose Handlers,

did.”

mission at Puzzle Pieces. their

“I had always donated to Puzzle

inaugural battle in 2021 and, despite

Pieces, volunteered when I could for

Both women said Amanda Owen,

falling short to the Handcuff Hunnies

different events, and tried to show

Executive Director at Puzzle Pieces,

in 2022, raised more money than any

support when needed,” Leonard said.

played a pivotal role in getting them

group ever. Because of their fundraising

“Performing in the Lip Sync Battle and

involved.

efforts,

extended

raising money throughout the year has

“Amanda had asked on Facebook

them the Community Award, which

been on another level for me. The thrill

if a group of people might want to

Thomas-Pickrell said speaks volumes

and fun of performing paired with a

participate virtually,” Leonard said.

of Roxanne’s lasting legacy.

bigger purpose have been so fulfilling.

led by Cathy Thomas-Pickrell, first performed in 2021.

The

Hose

Handlers

Puzzle

Pieces

won

lifelong success.

“She wanted to bring in something

“Much of the fundraising we do is

“It’s also fulfilling to see your

different during the pandemic. I have

done in my daughter’s name to keep

childhood friend’s dreams and passion

a lot of cousins, and we all love Puzzle

her memory alive,” she said. “Once we

unfold into a big purpose.”

Pieces and work well together, so I

finish the Lip Sync Battle and have ‘worn

Both groups admitted the battle

asked my sister, Emily, and my cousin,

out our welcome,’ we will continue with

required long hours and a lot of

Allie, to form a team with me. Several

most of our fundraisers, donating the

work,

others support us off the stage, and

proceeds to a local nonprofit. While this

and choreographing dances, but also

that’s where they like it.”

is a great way to support Amanda and

fundraising. It’s the bond they form

Puzzle Pieces, it’s also an avenue for

with their teammates, however, that

Thomas-Pickrell’s

22

primary

Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

not

just

memorizing

lyrics

keeps them coming back.

Thomas-Pickrell, Jean Owen, and Lori Zoglmann have been on the team since its inception, and have formed quite a bond. Owen crafted the name, and they all take great pride in being a part of something bigger than themselves. They also have a lot of fun.

“I think what I have gained most from the experience is a connection with the other women,” Thomas-Pickrell said. “I have always been friends with other firemen’s wives, but participating in this event has allowed me to get to know some of the wives on a deeper level. We spend a lot of time together between October and January fundraising and practicing.”

Leonard and her teammates Allie McDaniel and Emily Payne, along with the backstage crew, have also formed quite a connection over the past three years. They also enjoy connecting with other performers, and as the Hose Handlers said: it’s fun.

“I think my favorite is the bond our group has formed – it makes me teary-eyed to think about it,” she said.

“Not only do I get to perform with my sister and my cousin, that is like a sister, but with a group of likeminded women that lift each other up, empower each other, cheer for each other in all aspects of life, including our lives outside of our Lip Sync Battle squad.”

Leonard added that the preparations for the event bring an entirely new meaning to the phrase “mom time,” and offers the perfect opportunity to raise money for such a worthy cause. She said the memories they’ve formed because of the battle are irreplaceable.

During the virtual competition, the Mom Squad leaned on their experiences with their high school dance team, and rallied off a Beyonce-themed performance.

Last year, they continued their nod to Beyonce and operated under a “boss babes” theme, showing the crowd that “these moms still got it.”

The Hose Handlers pulled off a Christina Aguilera Moulin Rouge theme in 2021 before shifting to a Janet Jackson Rhythm Nation theme in 2022. Thomas-Pickrell said their costumes for last year were a hit, and they “nailed” some tough choreography.

Neither group would reveal much about their plans for this year. Thomas-Pickrell said fans would see glimpses of old and new movies, while Leonard simply said, “moms need to have fun too.”

Sponsored by Vineyard Primary Care, this year’s Lip Sync Battle begins at 7:30 p.m. and concludes at 12:30 a.m. at the Owensboro Convention Center. Standing room-only tickets for the event are still available. OL J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

23

Features

Finding Someone to Fill His Shoes

TERRY MOSS, OWNER AND OPERATOR OF MOSS SHOE REPAIR ON TRIPLETT STREET, HAS BEEN THE ONLY SHOE REPAIR SHOP IN TOWN SINCE 2016. SINCE THEN, HIS BUSINESS HAS GROWN EXPONENTIALLY. “MY SHOP IS BIGGER THAN ME,” HE SAYS. NOW, AT AGE 63, HE IS LOOKING TO SELL HIS BUSINESS. Written by L I B B Y J O H N S O N

24

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

Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

M

oss,

who

the

business

took

over

to change. After the passing of

shoes and boots to avoid folks

his

Don Raines, who owned the Shoe

deciding not to pick up their

grandfather, Jessie Frakes, loves

Hospital on 4th and Frederica for

newly redone shoes. He admits

the idea of passing his business

decades, and was more of a friend

his work can feel costly, but most

down to a family member, but

than competitor to Moss, Moss

people are surprisingly attached

says that is not feasible at this

says he was so busy he literally

to their favorite footwear. The

point. Instead, he plans to spread

couldn’t keep up. In the last 6

statements he most often hears

the

from

variety

months, he has only opened his

in justification of repairing shoes

of channels - including trade

shop Mondays, Tuesdays, and

that may not have been expensive

magazines and local realtors, to

Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

in the first place are, “they are

find a person who wants to live

Though

Thursday,

just so comfortable,” and “I

in Owensboro and own and run a

Friday, and Saturday, as well.

can’t find any others like them,”

shoe repair shop. While Moss is

Closing the door to drop offs three

he says. Often, repairing shoes

willing to train and work with the

days a week was the only way he

with a non-leather sole involves

next owner, he does not want to

could keep up with his work.

Moss’s least favorite process -

word

through

a

employ the person or own any of the business.

he

works

“I have great customers,

glue jobs. ”I’d rather do anything

and I love to talk,” Moss said.

than that,” he says. As far as the

Moss wants the next owner

“Some people come by just to

most well-made shoes he sees

to purchase the shop before he

talk,” he added. The ebb and flow

come in and out, Moss says dress

trains them, so the new owner

of customers varies, he says,

shoes by Allen Edmonds are the

is personally invested in the

but not a day goes by when the

finest as far as he’s concerned.

endeavor. “Anybody can learn this

shop is open that he doesn’t get

trade,” he says, noting that the

new customers. Moss requires

customer of Moss’s knows that

need is high and that is unlikely

payment before he does work on

when you get an item back from

Anyone

who

has

been

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

a

25

Terry Moss, it almost always comes to you with a Bible verse or inspirational poem tucked inside. After getting saved about ten years into owning the shop, he found himself wondering how he could glorify God through his business. He was inspired by a preacher he knew who handed out gospel tracks and decided to follow in his footsteps. Moss says he receives semi-regular feedback from people regarding his ministry. “Recently, a man texted that he received a Psalm in his shoe from me and he said, ‘I really needed that.’”

Moss says he has never had to advertise, which should be an appealing aspect for a prospective buyer. His location, across from the Farmers Market, has proved fruitful, and he says he has enjoyed seeing the area improve over the years. There’s no timetable on Moss’s departure, and he seems optimistic that the right buyer will come along. “I’m not going anywhere just yet,” he says, reiterating his promise to train the next owner. “Owensboro needs a fullservice shoe and leather shop.” OL

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE 2023

WEDDING GUIDE

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

27

The Wedding Guide

PLANNING A

Destination Wedding Written by J A M I E P L A I N

In September of 2022, I got married in Iceland to my (now) husband Ian, with our amazing parents there supporting us.

There were a lot of reasons Ian and I chose to get married overseas. We had visited Iceland on a holiday before and fell in love with the tiny church overlooking the ocean.

Although we knew it wouldn’t be possible to bring all of our family and friends on such a trip, we loved the idea of sharing such a special moment with just our parents. I also won’t hide that the thought of having so much focus on me for a day made me deeply panic - walking down the aisle with all eyes on me was just not my idea of a blissful moment.

There were more practical reasons for us as well: We worked as a wedding photography team for ten years and saw the many issues that arose on wedding days, so we knew that we wanted our day to have as little stress and hassle as possible. We wanted to avoid the thousands of decisions that accompany wedding planning. We knew that a microwedding overseas would actually be close to half the budget we would have needed for a large reception locally. Most importantly, we wanted our focus to be solely on each other that day.

Destination weddings and elopements aren’t for everybody. It is difficult to sacrifice a full wedding if that is what you had envisioned your entire life. Not to mention there is a level of research involved for the destination if it’s a place you aren’t completely familiar with. You must be an adventurous type of person that can “go with the flow,” due to the unpredictable elements involved. For someone who is a detailed

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

planner and scheduler (raises hand), that will take

hunting down paperwork that isn’t typically needed

a bit of mental preparation beforehand. The main

for weddings here in the States.

reason it might not be for you is because it means your full family won’t be there to celebrate (we fixed

HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER TO MAKE THINGS EASIER.

this issue by having an intimate “after party” locally

It’s hard putting all your trust in someone you

once we returned). It will likely be a disappointment

may not be meeting in person, but it’s even more

to some family members. You might feel conflicted,

difficult having to hunt down all your vendors in a

but ultimately the decision should only be between

location you aren’t familiar with (particularly if they

you and your partner – it’s your day!

speak a different language)! Using a planner meant

After going through the process of planning a

that all I had to do was tell her my wishes and she

destination wedding (and making a few mistakes),

would make them happen. Whenever I told her I

there are definitely things I can say that I wish I had

wanted a certain detail, she would send me a portfolio

known. My hope is that by reading these tips, you

of several local businesses to choose from. While

can decide if a destination wedding seems like the

this is not something that you must do, it changed

right fit for you!

the entire planning experience for me. I went from feeling completely overwhelmed to feeling taken

MAKE SURE YOU ARE AWARE OF ALL THE LEGALITIES. This is particularly true if you decide on a different country than your own. Even if you won’t

care of instantly. If you decide a wedding planner is not for you, make sure you research all of your vendors thoroughly!

be getting married in your state, you’ll need to look into all the paperwork needed for your wedding. As

CONSIDER HAVING YOUR WEDDING “OFF SEASON”.

romantic as it sounds to spontaneously elope, there

In recent years, Iceland has become an extremely

is still the boring aspect of paperwork. When we

popular tourist destination. On top of that, we also

had our wedding in Iceland, we had a bit of stress

got married in one of the busiest years for traveling

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

29

The Wedding Guide working in our favor, but these things can happen anywhere! Things will go wrong with any wedding - having back-up plans prevented me from feeling too stressed.

KEEP THE TRAVELING ASPECT TO DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN MIND. While traveling can be a beautiful adventure, it can also be incredibly stressful. Like I mentioned above, there can be weather that causes delays, or maybe even issues with airport and air-travel in general.

Make sure to cushion enough time to get to your location several days before the wedding in case you get delayed a couple of days. I also prepared by bringing medication for any possible ailment that might have and

(considering

suggestions! It was (of course) more

postponed

work for me, but it was important to

weddings and travel plans during the

me that they had a great experience

pandemic). Although September is

since they traveled so far to witness

known to be a bit more risky when it

our wedding. If you plan on inviting a

comes to the weather, we still chose it

lot of guests, you need to keep in mind

due to it being considered off-season,

that it’s a massive undertaking. You

meaning less tourists and cheaper

can’t be offended if some guests are

lodging options. It’s a good idea to

unwilling or unable to make the travel

research what seasons look like at

arrangements. Make sure that you

your destination - it could be a way to

give people plenty of time to begin

save money!

planning.

so

weddings many

ever

people

had

happened (which produced a lot of laughs from my family until I caught a horrible cold my second day in the country). Also, if you are bringing a wedding dress consider how it will travel! I had my dress wrapped in plastic and asked the flight crew if I could hang it in the first-class closet (very rarely will someone say no).

We brought a travel steamer to get everyone’s outfits photo-ready.

My husband and I made sure

GIVE ALL YOUR GUESTS KEY INFORMATION.

EXPECT THE BEST, PLAN FOR THE WORST.

to keep things as simple as possible while also incorporating small details

This one is only for the people

Not only did a volcano close to

that will be bringing guests along

the only airport erupt weeks before

that reflected our love for travel,

with them, as well (and if you aren’t,

our wedding, but we had already had

loved-ones that couldn’t be with us,

keep in mind that many places require

to change our date entirely due to a

and his Scottish heritage. With the

witnesses for your wedding no matter

miscommunication with our wedding

beauty of the scenery surrounding

what, so plan accordingly). Your

planner. It was nobody’s fault - it is

us, it wasn’t important to have a lot

guests might not be familiar with

just difficult to get on the same page

of details. However, that can be an

the area. I didn’t want my family to

when the time zones (and languages)

exciting part of planning a wedding

stress about researching the trip, so

are completely different! It was a big

for many couples! As you can tell from

while the time before the wedding

stress to us at the time, but it turns out

all the tips listed above, it all comes

was

together,

the date that we had chosen originally

down to considering what aspects of

after the wedding I made individual

ended up being right in the middle of

a wedding are most important to you

itineraries for everybody detailing

a large wind storm that shut down the

and your partner. There is no right or

everything from lodging to restaurant

entire country for days. It ended up

wrong answer! OL

30

spent

sight-seeing

Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

31

The Wedding Guide

WEDDING PLANNING BIG 4:

Budget and breathe!

Written by A L LY S O N S A N D E R S

You said yes and they said let’s go! Where do we go from here, you ask? Well let’s get right to it! I am happy to share 4 key areas to consider for a happy wedding plan. As a wedding planner who has seen a lot, I hope this breakdown will make your process easier. No matter what, at the end of the day, you are marrying your best friend. The wedding day is just that - a day you want to remember, not cringe over! These are my big 4.

1. Know your budget, speak your budget,

and stay within your means.

2. Work with your partner to determine a realistic guest list.

it be as great as a professional? Maybe

Not your mom’s means or whatever

Guests are great for a party but let’s be

free, so make all your pennies count! You

Pinterest tells you. Every bride wants

real, they are expensive! Food is not

only have a few hours to be the bride.

their wedding day to be special and

cheap. Your meal is determined by how

Stop a second and look around you,

unique. But when you dreamed of your

many guests there are. Are you going to

remind yourself why you are here and

fairytale wedding as a child, you did not

cater or potluck it? Either way, do you!

consider yourself lucky to be surrounded

imagine the itemized bill. Yikes! I’ve

Caterers are great to talk to when it

seen budgets spin out of control due to

comes to the planning phase, and talking

by awesome people sharing this special

lack of realistic expectations. Decide who

is free. Make the calls and remember

pays and where money can be saved early

your budget. I cannot express that

in the planning process. Start with your

enough. There is no shame in making

venue cost and work your way back.

simple appetizers or finger foods, either.

Common wedding expenses include:

Venue rental Flowers Officiant fees Marriage license Catering (per person) Wedding cake Photographer DJ or live band Wedding invitations Wedding gown Groom’s attire Hair and makeup Travel Expenses Wedding favors

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

Your friends and family are coming to celebrate you, not for leftovers. And if they are… well maybe they should not make the guest list!

3. Ask your friends and family to help!

I know it seems cheesy, but your wedding day isn’t entirely about you. Your loved ones will be right there with you on the big day, so why not enlist their help?

Brides can be so tense on their wedding day that they can lose sight of “the moment.” Remember, you have some

or maybe not! But it’s impossible to beat

milestone with you.

4. Don’t miss your day!

If you can hire a planner, hire one! If one of your friends or family members is super organized and bossy, let them take the helm! Having someone there from the beginning or just the day of is worth its weight in gold. The goal is to remain sane and to be able to afford to live happily ever after when it’s all said and done. That means not overtaxing yourself or overspending. Flowers can wilt, cakes can topple over, and Aunt Karen may make a scene, but once you walk down the aisle, you will forget all of that and move toward your forever.

highly creative friends and family in

And that, my friends, is priceless! Happy

your arsenal or social media circle. Will

planning! OL

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

The Wedding Guide

A Wedding Registry AS UNIQUE AS YOU Sponsored Content from J U L E P H O M E A N D G I F T

Are you planning a wedding in 2023? If so, Julep Home and Gift in Owensboro’s Wesleyan Park Plaza would like to help you create a wedding registry unique to your style and needs.

A wedding registry should contain items for the home that the couple can enjoy for many years. It is a great opportunity for the engaged couple to select tabletop, entertaining pieces and home accessories that match their color preferences, everyday needs and entertaining style.

“Do you entertain friends outdoors? Do you like to mix and match colors, or would you prefer a simpler look? Will you be hosting a dinner with beautiful china?

These are just a few questions we ask couples to consider as they develop their registry,” said Sharon Wilson, coowner of Julep.

“We are here to help couples plan for their current and future needs as their family grows and moves,” noted Sharon.

“The gift registry is also important to friends and family that want to express their well-wishes with a gift for a shower or the wedding,” added Elizabeth Wilson, co-owner of Julep.

“It gives guests a gift guide with many options, including different prices.”

Elizabeth also added, “Julep Home and Gift will host a couple’s wedding registry on our website, and also provide a link to the couple’s wedding website for the guests’ convenience.”

One of the biggest advantages to a local gift registry is convenience. When making their selections, couples can “feel and touch” items as they inspect them for color, style and quality. Couples can also exchange items without costly return postage. Guests will also benefit from free gift wrapping and free local delivery.

Julep Home and Gift offers a variety of brands known for their high quality and durability so couples can choose registry items for their tabletop, entertaining, cookware, home accessories and linens for table, bed and bath, and more.

Call 270-215-7750 to schedule your appointment with the wedding pros at Julep Home and Gift. OL J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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The Wedding Guide

SOMETHING OLD,

Something New...

Written By L A U R A M U R P H Y

T

he

old

English

rhyme,

“something old, something new,

something

borrowed,

something

blue,” describes the items a bride should have with her on her wedding day.

Locally,

the

community

is

fortunate to have unique options for weddings and events, including a few new options that have recently emerged. Putting our own spin on the popular saying, let’s take a quick peek at a few of the options around Owensboro for those planning their big day.

SOMETHING OLD: Just a few decades ago, the traditional

option

for

engaged

couples was to get married and hold the reception at the church they attended. Many churches offer a beautiful backdrop for the recitation of vows and are a great option for couples looking for a more traditional feel to their ceremony. With over one hundred churches in Owensboro, it is not difficult to find a church to host their wedding if this option is best for you.

SOMETHING NEW: When Idyllwood on Veach opened in Owensboro recently, it offered guests a picturesque outdoor space where guests can take in the views of the lake, walk the stunning grounds or gather underneath the twinkling

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

January, the Party Space Place LLC is

lights of the large tent.

“The convenient location paired

expanding to offer a larger venue next

with the country views is unique. How

door to their original location, which

amazing to have the remote country

will be called TPSP LLC Bayside.

views and secluded feeling, but be

Named for the large doors that open

right in the middle of town. We have

to face the water behind their new

affordable pricing for anyone who

business, the space will offer outdoor

has pictured their event on a farm or

seating, a bridal suite, a prep kitchen,

under the stars. We want everyone

and an area that can be flipped from

to be able to access this gorgeous

cocktail hour to a dancefloor. The

space,” PR director Jackie Sue Smith

venue can host up to 120 people.

“This

said.

Coming

to

Owensboro

this

is

something

different,

and will offer a unique vibe. We

want people to feel like they aren’t in Owensboro even though they are.

From coordinating to decorating, to offering people a space, we can pretty much do it all,” owner Allyson Sanders said.

SOMETHING BORROWED A unique rental business for events, Something Borrowed serves Kentucky, Indiana and Tennessee.

The partnership between two local couples—Marshall Sanders

and

and

Summer

Allyson and

Kirk

offer backdrops, a digital photo

Bridge as a backdrop for ceremonies,

Aldridge, is a collaboration effort

booth, beautiful vintage chairs and

receptions and photo opportunities.

to bring a needed service to this

other unique items,” Sanders said.

Reception venues like The Riverpark

community.

“We always wanted to collaborate

Center,

SOMETHING BLUE:

The

Convention

Center,

and Green River Distilling Co., all

on something and knew we wanted to

With the beautiful backdrop of

located along the Ohio River, utilize

figure out a way to offer something

the Glover Cary Bridge, Owensboro

the ambiance of downtown and the

that customers needed. There is

offers couples and those planning big

bridge for the perfect example of

nothing like it in Owensboro. We

events the opportunity to use the Blue

“something blue.” OL

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

37

The Wedding Guide

Take the Stress Out of

CREATING YOUR REGISTRY Sponsored Content from W I L LO W A N D P I N E M A R K E T

Planning a wedding can be a

what it might look like 5…10…15

are treasured, shared at special

stressful time. At Willow and Pine

years from now. Do you enjoy baking

occasions, and passed down to the

Market, we strive to make the

and cooking? Do you entertain? Will

next generation!

registry process as easy as possible.

you host meals for your extended

Finally, ask your mother, or a

Often couples are a bit overwhelmed

families during the holidays? Do you

married friend, about their own

by the process and need a little

plan on having children?

registries.

guidance in creating their perfect wedding registry.

First, take a quick inventory of what you both have.

Which items

Consider

your

lifestyle

and

What did they register

for that they absolutely love?

Are

register for practical items such as

there items that they did not register

baking and cooking utensils and

for, but wish they had? Which items

tools,

from their registries are in a box

easy-to-care

for

serving

do you want to take with you into

and baking dishes, and everyday

your new life together? Which items

dinnerware. You’ll also need things

will no longer meet your needs as a

for entertaining, both casual and

registries and encourage engaged

married couple (or are left over from

formal,

boards,

couples to call the store at 270-

your college apartment days) and

serving bowls and platters, barware,

478-1022 to set an appointment and

need to be thrown away/donated and

and

linens.

begin the process. Our registries are

replaced?

And, of course…every family needs

available online and we offer free

those beautiful, special pieces that

gift-wrapping and delivery. OL

Think about your life now and

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

like

nicer

charcuterie kitchen/table

under the bed and never ever used?

We

love

creating

wedding

6 QU EST I O NS TO A SK

Before Hiring Your Wedding Photographer Some moments are simply too important to trust to a camera phone.

Your wedding will be one of the most memorable times of your life, and no one can capture it better than a professional photographer. So how do you find the right one? As you interview photographers, ask them these questions to help you determine if he or she is the right photographer for you.

1. Do you have a portfolio I can review?

Reviewing sample work allows you to see the photographer’s style. Is it more formal or candid? Look for images you can see yourself in. Think of three words that describe you and share those with your photographer

2. Will you create a detailed shot list?

This list will ensure no important photo is missed during your wedding. You should be able to create that list together.

Take an honest look at what images really matter and fill your photographer in on situations he or she might need to be aware of in order to prevent awkward moments.

3. Do you have backup equipment?

You’ve prepared contingency plans for every other aspect of your wedding; your photographer should as well. A true professional will always bring one or two backup cameras, lenses, flashes, lighting equipment, extra memory cards and batteries.

4. Do you have liability insurance?

Accidents happen, and if one of your guests trips over your photographer’s light stand, it’s good to know you both are protected. Your reception venue may even ask the photographer to submit a certificate of liability ahead of time.

5. What happens to my images after the wedding?

Will your images be backed up to a hard drive or the cloud once processed? How long will your photographer keep the images afterward? If you have any concerns about losing your photos, knowing what the photographer plans to do with your images after your wedding is important.

6. When will I get my photos?

Printed photos usually take several weeks, but your photographer may be able to get you some images for social media quickly. Just ask.

You won’t be able to see everything that happens at your wedding. The right photographer will capture moments you never knew existed. OL

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The Wedding Guide

Choosing the Right Ring

P

reparing to pop the question this

Valentine’s

Day,

but

unsure how to choose the

right engagement ring? Read on for all the tools you need to make the perfect pick!

While choosing an engagement ring can be exciting, the variety of settings, precious metals, and diamonds can be overwhelming.

However, the following tips will help

you

in

finding

the

ideal

diamond engagement ring.

SET YOUR PRICE LIMIT. Before you start shopping, know how much you want to spend. There is no right or wrong amount to put toward a ring, and many beautiful stones and styles are available to suit any budget. It’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds can be up to 40 percent less expensive

CONSIDER SHAPE.

surrounded by smaller diamonds;

The common diamond shapes used

in

round,

engagement cushion,

princess,

radiant,

are

accent diamonds along the ring

oval,

band; and vintage, which replicates

emerald.

design styles from different time

rings

pear, and

Each of these shapes has its fans and

distinctive

classic, which features a row of

features.

For

example, a round diamond is the

periods.

CONTEMPLATE YOUR CENTER STONE.

classic engagement ring style, but

When it comes to your center

the larger facets of a cushion style

stone, there are a few different

can enhance brilliance, and the

options to choose from. Although

elongated emerald cut presents a

diamonds are the most popular,

bold look that can make a diamond

birthstones, moissanite, and cubic

appear larger than its carat weight.

zirconia are also great budgetfriendly options. In regards to

than mined stones.

CHOOSE A SETTING.

LEARN THE “4 C’S” OF DIAMONDS.

diamond shape for your stone is

and lab-created diamonds. While

a personal decision. Some people

mined diamonds are extracted from

have specific ideas for a setting,

the earth, lab-grown stones are

The cut of a diamond is the most

and take more time on the stone,

guaranteed to be ethically sourced

important factor in determining

or vice versa. However, not all

and, as mentioned above, up to 40

its fire, brilliance, and sparkle.

settings accommodate all shapes

percent less expensive. Both types

Color: Not all diamonds are clear;

so it’s important to prioritize one

are identical in terms of chemistry

some have varying tints of yellow.

or the other if you are set on a

and physical appearance. However,

Clarity: A measure of the number

particular shape or setting. Typical

interest in lab-created diamonds

of flaws or inclusions in the stone.

engagement ring styles include

has surged in recent years as

Carat: A measure of the weight

the solitaire, a simple band that

more couples are concerned with

of the diamond. However, more

showcases any diamond shape;

sustainability, as well as beauty and

weight also indicates a bigger size.

halo, in which a central stone is

romance. OL

These are: cut, color, clarity, and carat. Here’s the translation: Cut:

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

Deciding the right setting or

diamonds, there are two types to choose

from:

mined

diamonds

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TIPS AND ADVICE FROM LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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&wellness

HEALTH

Getting (and Staying) Active in Owensboro Written By K R I S T I M C C A B E

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

Owensboro’s multiple walking and biking trails, city parks, and fitness centers combine to create a community that is conducive for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and promoting wellness. From the 16.5-mile Adkisson Greenbelt Park to the Rudy Mine trails to the state-of-the-art fitness facilities at the Health Park, the city of Owensboro has invested in the health of its citizens by providing countless ways to stay active.

Mark Myles, a native Owensboran and cyclocross racer, takes full advantage of the many opportunities his hometown has to offer for training.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to race all over the world,” remarked Myles.

“I’ve competed in Belgium and the Netherlands; cyclocross is big in Europe. We race in all weather conditions, rain, snow, everything. In Europe, their season goes until the end of February. I train here in Owensboro and compete in the U.S., as well, so it’s nice to have places to train locally.”

Myles began racing at the age of 8 and in 2021 competed in his 7th Cyclocross Nationals race.

Myles credits the cycling community in Owensboro for being a supportive piece of his success.

“There is a core group of about 15 to 20 who ride together a few times a week,” said Myles. “It’s nice to come home after a stressful week and just get out and ride on those country roads, enjoy the scenery and see the leaves changing color.”

The cycling business is a way of life for Mark Myles and his family, and he enjoys helping others get started on the road to racing, too.

“Our business began as a coaching company and a bicycle racing team in 2012,” Myles said. “My father is a performance and endurance coach, a runner, cyclist, and multi-discipline mentor. We had been running our business out of area shops, and when the Big O Bike Shop closed, we put our heads together and decided to open our own shop.”

Be Real Sports, Cycling & Fitness opened its doors in April 2018.

Operated by Mark and his parents,

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HEALTH

as well as two part-time employees, the business is going strong, offering services, repairs, fittings, bicycles and accessories, as well as performance coaching and fitness classes.

“We consider ourselves the only bike shop in town because we are the only venue that sells just bikes,” Mark noted. “This business is our passion, and we look forward to many more years of helping others live active lifestyles.”

Another Owensboro native has channeled his passion for marathon running into a successful venture, making it all the way to the Boston marathon.

“I’ve been a lifelong runner,” said Dean Roberts. “I first began running in elementary school and continued through high school, then picked it back up as an adult. In my 40s, I decided that if I was ever going to get into marathon running, it was time to go ahead and do it.”

Roberts ran his first marathon in 2008 in Memphis– the St. Jude Marathon; after that, he was hooked. Next came the Boston Marathon and the Chicago Marathon. Roberts finished in the 600s out of 26,000 runners in the prestigious Boston Marathon.

“I train year-round,” Roberts said. “When I first started, I set a time goal of two hours fifty minutes. I met that goal in 2011 at the Indy Monumental Marathon. After that, I shifted my focus from marathon running to triathlons.”

Roberts then set a goal of completing an Ironman Triathlon, which consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle race, and a 26.22- mile run. He completed the Louisville Ironman in 2013 and called the experience a “huge shift” from just running.

“Adding cycling and swimming was eye-opening,” said Roberts.

“I was used to being at the top of my field in running and was in the middle of the pack in the Ironman event. It was a good, humbling experience and a new challenge. I had a baseline and then set some improvement goals.”

Roberts made it all the way to the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii in 2016. After that, he turned his focus back to running.

An injury that he sustained while cycling one day, however, left him with a broken pelvis and he underwent a six-month recovery.

That injury and recovery period opened Roberts’ eyes to another important facet of staying physically active. “Another benefit for athletes living in Owensboro is the many choices we have of fantastic

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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HEALTH

doctors and physical therapists,” said

“My focus has been more on getting

Roberts. “They really helped to get me

back into running over the past few

back in shape and healed completely.”

years,” noted Roberts. “My wife is an

Dean Roberts and his wife Paula run a coaching and endurance business

together.

called RyR Endurance. They enjoy

Marathon in October and the New York

helping others live an active lifestyle

City Marathon in November. Next, we

and meet their performance goals.

are doing three marathons in three

Living in Owensboro helps them meet

states in three days: the Bear Lake

these goals, as the couple intentionally

Trifecta.”

chose a home close to the Greenbelt, for easy access to running trails.

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avid marathoner as well, and we run

Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

We finished the Chicago

Owensboro has much to offer for the fitness-minded, and also for those

who are active in competitive athletic events all over the world.

“Much of my success has been enabled by living here in Owensboro,” said Dean Roberts. “We have wonderful doctors and physical therapists, topnotch

training

riding

and

facilities,

running

trails,

beautiful and

a

supportive, active community. This is a great place to live and train if you want to live a healthy lifestyle.” OL

&wellness

HEALTH

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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&wellness FOCUSING ON MENTAL HEALTH

HEALTH

Written By DA N A P E V E L E R

Have you considered making positive mental health a priority for your New Year? Three community mental health providers are working to ensure you have the opportunity to do exactly that.

4:00 p.m., “this concept was unchartered

Noah recently became a volunteer

waters,” Caleb said. The Eluna Network

with Mentor Kids. He wanted to find a

had a model ready to go. Caleb shared that

they

were,

“unbelievably

and

miraculously selected,” hosting their first Camp Erin this past summer. They had 32 campers their first year! They were told

Caleb

Potter,

the ministry. He also holds a certification in

Thanatology,

the

scientific

“Counseling is not about giving advice.

3 days and 2 nights!

It’s about listening without interrupting

to make a lot of headway in 2023, hosting

Kentucky, trained professionally to be in study

of death, as well as the needs of the terminally ill and their families. When he learned of the position of Chaplain at Hospice, he believed it would be a good fit.

“Grief has such a catastrophic effect on people’s world view, that putting myself in a position to try and understand that as best I could, was a passion immediately stepping into the role as Chaplain,” Caleb said. He wanted to be as

wants to help youth to ”see their worth,

homesickness, but all of his stayed the full

children’s bereavement center. They hope

Coordinator with Hospice of Western

with challenges, such as addiction. He their value, what they’re good at.” He said

endeavor will be the development of a

Bereavement

comes from being a child raised in a home

to expect a few campers to go home due to

He shared that Hospice’s and his next

Bereavement Counseling

way to get out in front of the trauma that

peer-to-peer support groups with kids

– really listening without interrupting their story.”

Deep

Waters

has

established

a

partnership with Care-Net Owensboro

who have experienced the loss of a loved

to

one.

for women who have lost a child, or

If you are in need of bereavement counseling services, regardless of whether your loved one utilized their program, you can reach out at (270) 926-7565 or at hospiceofwky.org.

Biblical Counseling

Noah Elkins is a Biblical Counselor with

Deep Waters Biblical Counseling, as well as an English Teacher with Grace Christian Academy. As a former banker, Noah found his way to counseling after realizing he’d

provide

experienced

the

counseling

postpartum

services

and

other

related concerns. “It has been a beautiful circle of connections,” Noah said. When they first arrived in Owensboro, they did not yet have insurance and his wife was expecting. After concerns that his wife may be losing the baby, they went to Care-Net. Providers there were able to get a heartbeat, and they welcomed their new baby girl in late November.

Deep

Waters

strives

to

schedule

attentive and present as he possibly could

spent years as a loan officer counseling

services within a week of the referral,

because, “you were never going to be the

clients through various aspects of the

expert in that because everyone’s grief is

and anyone is eligible to receive services.

lending process. He found he enjoyed the

so different.”

counseling aspect of the role, saying, “I

You can reach them at DeepWatersBC@

Originally

coming

to

Hospice

as

always knew the two things I wanted to

a Chaplain, Caleb transitioned to the

do was counsel and teach. Stepping out

position of Bereavement Coordinator

in faith, it ended up letting me do the two

where he has worked for the last 8 years.

things I’m passionate about, counsel and

During that time, he has received two

teach. It was really powerful.”

grants to publish two children’s books

As a counselor with Deep Waters

on grief, as well as the most recent grant

Biblical Counseling, LLC, the largest part

from an organization called the Eluna

of his role is to work with clients from

Network, who selected 5 organizations

Friends of Sinners, a Christ-centered

across the U.S. to host a program called

residential substance recovery program.

Camp Erin.

Noah shared, “Just the reconciliation

The project is an overnight grief camp

and healing that’s come from counseling

for campers age 6 – 17. Having previously

after decades of trauma and pain has been

offered a day model from 9:00 a.m. to

spectacular to see.”

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

gmail.com or through their website, at deepwatersbc.com.

&wellness

HEALTH Previously working in a church, Lauren

is “the honor and privilege that I have to

found she was getting requests to meet

get to be the person invited into someone

with people when she realized there was

else’s struggle and growth.”

a whole population that had needs going

Lauren receives referrals through

unmet. “My heart really went out as a

current clients. She finds that she really

believer, the faith side of things, and also the mental health.”

Early enjoys many elements of her

Marriage and Family Counseling Lauren

Early

is

a

Licensed

Professional Clinical Counselor who is in private practice specializing in Marriage and Family Issues and Trauma.

She

works

a

great

deal

with

children who struggle with Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder systems, as well as trauma. Having first started her career with Sunrise Children Services, she works with children whether they’re adopted or in the foster system. She has spent the last 7 years in private practice.

Lauren has always had an interest in studying how people’s minds work.

work, saying one is, “showing a parent how to hear their child, how to work with their child. My hope is to restore and cultivate that connection between parent and child.” She loves “getting to see people realize what they’re capable of; when people realize they’re not alone and have everything they need in order to live a healthy life…. seeing reconciliation in relationships and hope restored.”

Lauren explained that we are, “holistic beings who like to compartmentalize, like a lunch tray, but realistically, our brain impacts our being in how we function physiologically – and if that’s not well, we are bound to struggle in other areas.” Her goal is that individuals “would be able to recognize that asking for help and inviting someone into their world, isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather great courage.”

Her favorite part of being a therapist

loves the clientele that comes from those sources.

Each of our providers shared some joint observations: • Men are more likely to seek assistance now than in the past.

• COVID seems to have helped us be less inhibited when it comes to having mental health conversations.

• We are social beings who, by sharing our experiences, our grief, and traumas, can

build

meaningful

and

heal,

whether

connections,

that’s

through

counselors, psychologists, or peers.

• They each see their work as a ministry.

Their stories are those of just 3 of the amazing providers we have in our community. If each of them could pass along one tidbit of wisdom, it would be that if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. OL

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HEALTH

Vineyard Primary Care WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER (PCP)?

The short answer is because it

and a patient cannot be overstated

is linked to lower costs, better health

more front and center than in the

matters. Widely available primary care

status, and fewer health disparities as described in an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association

in January of 2019. In fact, in countries where primary care is widely available

and utilized, healthcare spending is less, and healthcare outcomes are better than in the US. Recent reforms in healthcare in the US have taken note of this and striven to promote the importance of primary care.

However, beyond the statistics it

is important for everyone to have a PCP because it results in better care for the individual.

The importance

of a relationship between a physician

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

and nowhere is this relationship

relationship between a PCP and his/ her patient. term,

PCPs develop long-

longitudinal

with patients.

relationships

This benefits the

patient because the PCP can better

diagnose and treat health issues

with the background knowledge and

experience with the patient in the past. PCPs can avoid pitfalls of urgent

care and other options for episodic

Additionally, just like preventative maintenance on a car is important to extend the longevity of the car, preventative care is equally important to having a long and health life. Early detection with screening as well as regular annual checkups helps to prevent problems before they occur and/or detect them early when they are easier to address. If you do not have a PCP, I strongly urge you to find one who fits your personality. If that

care because just like a mechanic who

is one of us at Vineyard Primary Care

knows how best to address problems

is someone else then I urge you to

avoid and what often works to correct

that long-term relationship with that

repeatedly works on the same care

then we are happy to serve, but if it

with that car, a PCP knows what to

find someone whom you can develop

issues when they arise.

results in a happier, healthier life.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

HOTWORX Are you intimidated by large gyms? Do you wish for a yoga or core class on Saturday night? Or in the middle of the day? How about a private workout with your spouse?

Want to DETOX? These are some of the reasons Carey Turner and her husband, Matt, loved the concept of HOTWORX. The couple opened their first HOTWORX in April of 2019, with their second this summer in Lexington.

HOTWORX is a virtually-instructed exercise program created for users to experience the benefits of infrared heat absorption, while completing a 30-minute Isometric workout (low impact) or a 15-minute High Intensity Interval The

Training

patented

(HIIT) sauna

session. combines

heat, infrared, and exercise, which is referred to as HOTWORX’s 3D Training.

“My WHY is very simple,” Carey said, “I was on 3-4 prescription drugs at the age of 39 and still felt miserable.

I had 2 high risk pregnancies, which landed me in the ER, a small blood clot,

anxiety,

chest

pain,

optic

migraines, joint stiffness, etc., and was later diagnosed with MTHFR.” MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a genetic mutation that almost half the population has without knowing. “In a nutshell, I have trouble with absorption of B-vitamins and detoxing my body properly. After a lot of research, I decided to buy a sauna, but I found trouble adding that to my already

the area. “For me, I was able to get

saunas plus exercise include pain

off almost all medications, and now,

relief, stress reduction, improved

at the age of 47, I crave the infrared

sleep, muscle recovery, and detoxing.

energy for better circulation, toning,

There are several options to utilize

and my overall health.” As for others,

the studio from day passes to

HOTWORX success stories range

memberships. Carey said, “We have

from putting on shoes without pain

people from 12-75 in age enjoying

to riding a bicycle from Memphis to

the studio. So, whether you are an

New Orleans.

avid athlete, injured, or just getting

The studio houses 9 infrared saunas

alternating

virtually

instructed

semi-private, workouts,

started on your fitness journey, there is something for you.” She does

24

recommend going at your own pace,

hours a day. The sessions range

keeping the temperature suitable for

from yoga, bands, buns, Pilates,

you, and asking your doctor if you

barre, cycling, rowing, and more. This

have concerns. “This is meant to cut

means you are able to get a quick

down the warmup, decrease injuries,

15–30-minute workout anytime of

and feel good.”

the day or night. There is also the FX

HOTWORX is located at 2928

Zone, a functional training area, full

Heartland Crossing, in front of Meijer

of free weights, kettlebells, medicine

on Highway 54. Call 270.993.WORX

New Orleans, the couple got to work

balls, and a Nautilus cable machine.

(9679) to set up your free session or

bringing this unique fitness model to

Some of the benefits of infrared

visit hotworx.net/studio/owensboro.

packed

routine.…then

mentioned

HOTWORX.”

someone After

a

quick trip to the corporate office in

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

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HEALTH

Get the Most from Your 1st Mental Health Therapy Session With These Tips

long have you been married, divorced, living with your parents,” or whatever your current situation. They’ll likely inquire if you’ve had counseling before or ever seen a psychiatrist.

Openly respond to any questions asked.

Some

people

find

it

unnerving

to reveal personal business to a therapist. However, the more open you are, the more smoothly your sessions will move forward and ensure a satisfactory conclusion.

Use “feeling” words to help the therapist

understand

experiencing.

Words

what

you’re

like,

“sad,”

“hurt,” “angry,” and “disappointed” will

shed

light

on

your

current

emotional situation for the therapist.

Embrace this opportunity to heal by sharing feelings honestly.

If you’re like most people, it probably takes some time to admit

Accept that you might shed tears.

directions or landmarks nearby.

you’re dealing with something too

Arrive 15 minutes prior to appointment.

difficult to handle on your own.

The office staff will have forms for

However, once you come to the

you to complete. It’s important to

conclusion that it’s time to seek

be present when the therapist is

professional help, you’ll most likely

ready for you. They often schedule

be relieved that you’re finally taking

clients consecutively and won’t have

some action.

excess

Your first mental health therapy session will lead you down the path toward successful resolution of your challenging emotional issues.

Make

the

most

of

your

first

appointment with these tips:

Complete pre-planning.

When you call the office for the first

time

between

sessions

to

accommodate late-comers.

Be cooperative.

During your first session, you might cry because you’re relieved to be finally “unloading” your feelings.

Also, opening up about situations that have been troubling you taps into feelings that could trigger crying. Go ahead and let go.

Be willing to return for a second session if the therapist recommends it.

Although you’re unsure of the process,

Even if you’re unsure about how the

the more helpful you are with the

session went, attend a second session.

therapist, the better able they are to

You’ll probably feel better a few days

assist you. Strengthen your resolve to

after the first session and even better

do what’s necessary to feel better.

still after the second.

paper ready as they’ll likely tell

Recognize the therapist does considerable information-gathering during the first session.

you what to bring, such as your

Because the therapist needs your

identification and insurance cards.

personal history to understand your

During the call, inquire about costs for

situation, they’ll inquire about various

services and how long the sessions will

parts of your life. The therapist will

you’re ready to embark upon what

last. Confirm the street address for

ask, “Who lives with you,” “What

could be one of the most enriching and

the office location and ask for specific

kind of work do you do,” and “How

enlightening adventures of your life! OL

appointment, focus on the office staff’s instructions. Have pen and

Attending your first mental health therapy session can be very motivating.

Rest assured, it’s completely normal to seek out professional help when you feel the need. With these tips,

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HEALTH SENIOR LIVING

Making Your Food Work for You Written by D A N A P E V E L E R

It’s after the holidays, and if

I chuckled yesterday when I was

don’t eat properly, I lose all zip in

you’re like me, you’re probably

reminded of the call when I heard

my proverbial zipper! Even worse,

riddled with regret after a month of

myself saying, “Why’s everybody

I may get shaky, dizzy, or even

eating with reckless abandon!

still seated?

pass out!

Our 2-year-old granddaughter was in the background last week,

I’m starving and I

No kidding, I’m a walking those

candy

bar

healthy diet helps us live longer… and healthier!

during a Facetime call with my

example

daughter, insisting, “I’m hungry! I

commercials where someone is

want to eat!” What started as a calm

a beast until they eat.

They’re

though, particularly as we age. Our

announcement of fact, increased

funny, but the truth is, not eating

appetites and/or nutritional needs

in urgency with a foot stomp and

is dangerous and can cause a

may change due to medications,

broken cries of starvation if she

multitude of avoidable problems!

slower

didn’t get immediate nourishment!

of

I’m not alone. Science

has proven that maintaining a

thought we were going to eat!”

For me, if I skip a meal, or just

It isn’t easy for everyone,

recovering

digestion, from

illnesses, a

surgical

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HEALTH

procedure, and even grief. If we’re

Next, let yourself eat more

yourself that’s your brain keeping

not paying attention, our dietary

often. One big meal, for a variety

you alive … and also tell yourself

changes

affect

of reasons, can cause you to lose

a cookie is probably not going to

our quality of life whether that’s

energy, believe it or not, especially

do that as well as something with

a decreased energy level, or an

if you compensate by skipping the

protein and healthy carbohydrates!

adverse effect on our health.

next meal. As I’m quick to remind

I’m

can

drastically

absolutely

no

expert,

nor

How and what we eat can

my grandfather, getting dizzy from

am I professing to have perfect

directly impact our energy levels,

skipping a meal is just flat unsafe!

nutritional fitness, but I have found

as well as our overall physical

I realized not eating was no longer

that I feel better when I reach for

and mental health.

an option for me after waking up

nuts, fresh fruit, crackers, and

face down in my hallway!

natural cheeses. They are filling,

with hydration.

Let’s start

I used to get so

irritated with my husband when I’d

I’ve learned that if I eat smaller amounts

sympathy, I’d get a, “Well, have

blood sugar levels are more stable.

you drank anything but coffee

I’m able to make more sensible

One way to make your food

today? Any water?” Ugh. He was

choices, and avoid overeating, and

work better for you is to keep an

spot on, though.

that draggy, “shoes are filled with

eye on the nutrients your choices

concrete,” feeling.

are giving you. For example, foods

6 to 8 glasses of water every day.

frequently,

my

sluggish feeling that puts me back

complain of a headache. Expecting

We need about

more

and don’t cause me to slip into a into that unhealthy spiral.

Unfortunately, sugary water, or

Our brains are designed to

rich in Vitamin C, like oranges, bell

water filled with caffeine or alcohol

cause us to crave types of food that

peppers, and even broccoli, are high

can dehydrate us, which drains our

help keep us alive.

When you’re

energy foods. Foods enriched with

energy.

suddenly wanting a snack, tell

Vitamin D, like tuna and other types

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&wellness

HEALTH of fish, help with energy levels,

though.

Protein can be found in

gives you both a better idea of

too, can enhance the immune

easier-to-digest foods like white

how your body is utilizing the fuel

system, and can also provide you

meats, fish, and even vegetables.

you’re feeding it.

with much needed protein, and

Try pinto beans – who doesn’t love

omega 3’s. B12 is another nutrient

a big pot of pinto beans this time

that boosts our energy as well as

of year?

brain and nerve health. Consider

beans, for example, lima, kidney,

switching to almond or soy milk

and edamame (soybeans) have a

in your oatmeal, adding yogurts,

good deal of protein.

cheeses, most fish, eggs (the yolks)

and lentils are often in soups, but

to increase your B12.

I have also found them in crackers,

Protein is our friend, too!

In fact, many types of

Chickpeas

and some types of pasta.

Peas,

For most, high quality protein

brussels sprouts, potatoes, sweet

increases muscle mass, boosts the

corn, spinach, asparagus, avocado

immune system, and may even

… it really is in a lot more than you

help with memory recall. In case

think!

I realize that there may be barriers

to

eating

healthily.

Medications can cause foods to taste differently. Loss of appetite, problems chewing, and frankly, grocery prices can be barriers, too.

I urge you to discuss your

situation with someone you trust, whether that’s a close friend, family member, or your physician.

Hopefully, together, you can come up with solutions.

So, as we turn the page on a

you weren’t already aware, we can

Some health conditions, such

increase our protein in other ways

as kidney, heart disease, or diabetes

new calendar to 2023, let’s hang

besides just through our red meat.

may require a more specialized plan

it on the wall with the resolution

Let’s face it, most of us love red

so check with your physician about

we’ll all enjoy - that we will focus

meat, but find it zaps our energy

your specific nutritional needs. He

on eating … eating enough, and

after we eat it.

or she can order bloodwork that

eating well! OL

There’s hope,

J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 Owensboro Living

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&wellness

HEALTH

T

SPONSORED CONTENT

Healthpark Focuses on Services to Address Whole Health he Owensboro Health Healthpark is

is always helpful and kind,” Riley said.

collaboratively to address health risks with

more than just an exercise facility

“It’s a complete workout facility that

individuals or designated populations.

—

health

offers top-notch programs and services

people

that I recommend to others.”

center

it’s

a

comprehensive

committed

to

keeping

healthy and restoring health to those who

For more than 24 years, the Healthpark

have experienced an illness or injury. As

remains

part of the Owensboro Health system’s

based fitness center in Kentucky. This

continuum of care, the Healthpark offers

designation is only possible by having

integrated wellness services that can fit

medical oversight, documented program

anyone’s needs.

outcomes, degreed staff and processes

“The on

Healthpark

friendliness,

works

cleanliness

to

focus

and

a

focused

the

on

Healthpark

only

safety. medical

certified

Dr.

medical-

Scott

Black,

director,

works

Healthcare

providers

can

refer

patients to the Exercise is Medicine program, B.A.S.E/Fall Prevention course, outpatient nutrition services and diabetes education.

Individuals

can

become

a

Healthpark member without a referral, or visit the facility for massage services, the Connections program for seniors and other wellness services.

commitment to be a facility you would

closely with the team and a diverse

With a focus on safety, all Healthpark

want to refer your family or friends to,”

medical advisory committee to oversee the

team members are certified in CPR and

said Collette Carter, Healthpark Director.

programs and services offered.

First Aid. There are protocols that ensure a prompt response when things happen

“We recognize that it is important to feel

“It’s essential to do the right exercise

welcome, safe and comfortable in the

for the issue someone is trying to address.

environment where you work on health

For example, walking might be very good

Long-time Healthpark member Judy

improvement. We approach wellbeing

for you, but it probably won’t build bone

from the whole health perspective with

density if you have osteoporosis,” Black

Stewart said she joined the Healthpark

easy access to services in a place where our

said. “If someone is going to make the

customers feel supported.”

effort and take the time out of their day

The facility includes a variety of options

to exercise, they should make sure the

to keep workouts interesting. Kenny Riley

exercise will help them get the results they

visits the Healthpark at least four times

want. An exercise professional can help

per week to utilize the fitness equipment,

determine the best exercises.”

unexpectedly.

after her open heart surgery because it is where she feels safe to exercise. “The staff check on me and are always attentive to how I am doing when I am here,” Stewart said. “I don’t feel like other fitness facilities would be trained and qualified to provide a place where I feel safe if

hot tub and other amenities. He also took

Along with exercise professionals at the

swim lessons to add to the ways he works

Healthpark, dietitians, diabetes educators

something was to happen. Everyone is so

to keep fit. “The Healthpark offers a great

and health coaches are also there to provide

nice, and I appreciate it. It is evident in the

atmosphere to work out in. From the front

additional education or guidance. Trained

actions of the staff that they care about

desk and throughout the facility, the staff

experts and licensed/certified staff work

their members.” OL

Visit OwensboroHealth.org/Healthpark to learn more.

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&wellness

HEALTH

SPONSORED CONTENT

Gene’s Health Foods HOW TO STICK TO YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS 1. Our number one piece of advice

you’ll hear everyone in the store say is…IT TAKES 30 CONSISTENT

DAYS TO CREATE A HABIT. If you

3. WRITE IT DOWN. Whether the

goal will be achieved at the end of 30 days or if it’s steps throughout the year, write out each step either

assess how to make your goal setting more successful.

5. REWARD YOURSELF WITH A

begin knowing that you must push

on your phone or on paper. Then, go

through for the minimum goal of 30

ahead and set alerts to remind you

days, it feels more reachable.

to check in on your progress.

to this idea and nurtured it into

2. Have a big goal? That’s ok, you

4. REMOVE OBSTACLES AND BE REALISTIC. What’s stopped you

into your plan.

can use this principle to break

your goals into more manageable chunks. BREAK YOUR MARATHON

TRAINING SCHEDULE INTO 30 DAY BENCHMARKS WITH A WEEK OF REST IN BETWEEN.

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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3

from eating healthier or learning

how to run correctly? Can you remove those obstacles now? Have

PUSH PRESENT. You gave birth fruition. Yay you! Build the reward

Be sure to shop at Gene’s Health Food either in store or online

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contactless

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for your changes? Step back and

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at

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&wellness

HEALTH

SAVE MONEY! GET HEALTHY!

Eating Healthy on a Budget

W

ith the economic situation in the world being what it is, it’s

Here are some tips to help you

see if you already have some of the

succeed in eating healthy on a

items. Make your grocery list and

budget.

determine to stick with it!

GROCERY SHOPPING

• Include what you’ll need for drinks, snacks and desserts.

• Remember your ingredients for preparation, such as butter, flour, sugar, and spices.

• Replenish cleaning supplies.

important to find ways of eating healthy on a budget. It’s possible to purchase foods that are good for

1. Set aside time to make your food

you and your budget; you merely

plan. Find the sales ads for each of

have to plan ahead to get the best food you can for the money you have available.

Having a plan and sticking to it can help you get more food at

the grocery stores in your area and decide on your meals for the coming week ahead of time.

2. Make a list. After you’ve planned your meals, write down everything

less cost and allow you to prepare

you need for each meal. Check your

3. Clip coupons for items you know

better, more healthy meals.

pantry, freezer, and refrigerator to

you’ll use. Leave the remainder of

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&wellness

HEALTH

the coupons at home so you’re not

7. Buy store or generic brands.

tempted to “save” money on items

There usually isn’t much difference

you don’t need.

in the way the foods taste but you can definitely see a difference in

4. Never go grocery shopping on

the price.

an empty stomach because you’re more likely to buy items that look good rather than those on your list.

If you can’t go to the store right after a meal, take along a light snack to help you resist temptation

OTHER WAYS TO EAT HEALTHY ON A BUDGET 1.

Make your own snacks for

your family’s time away from

while in the store.

home rather than allowing them

5. Buy items on the perimeter of

machines. Fresh fruit and vegetable

to purchase food from vending

the store first because these items

sticks with dip are much healthier

are the healthiest choices. This will

than the bags of chips or crackers

include fruits, vegetables, meats,

that come from the machines.

and dairy items. The center items are processed or convenience foods.

2. Eat at home. Whenever possible,

Not only are they more expensive,

make your food from scratch and

but they aren’t healthy.

eat it at home. Not only will this

6. Look for fruits and vegetables

your family eats, but it can also

• Drink low fat milk.

be

money.

non-seasonal

choices. While you’re looking at the

eating.

• Look for 100% pure juices.

save you a considerable amount of

than

and counter-productive to healthy

give you more control over what that are in season as these will often cheaper

drinks are the bane of your budget

Eating

out

also

encourages

fruits and vegetables, see if there

overeating because portion sizes

are any sales on these healthy,

are massive.

nutrient rich foods.

• Drink more water.

• Cut out soft drinks.

If you follow these tips, you’ll soon discover the joys of healthy eating and you’ll save money in

Choose large bags rather than

3. Drink healthy. Finally, when

individual pieces of fruit. The

eating healthy on a budget, don’t

the process. You may have to spend

larger bags are often cheaper by the

forget to think about what you’re

some extra time preparing food,

pound.

drinking. Expensive, sugar-laden

but the benefits are astounding! OL

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RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: CITY WALK p. 66

RECIPE: HEALTHY SNACKS p. 68

WHAT WE’RE EATING NOW: JUICE p. 71

→

Photo by

JAMIE PLAIN

F L AVO R

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Flavor R E S T A U R A N T

SPOTLIGHT

CITY WALK

A Flare for City Fare Written by K R I S T I M C C A B E Photos by J A M I E P L A I N

C

ity Walk opened its doors in 2017, only as a lunch destination in the beginning. When it became evident

that locals were a fan of the new eatery’s laid-back atmosphere and original yet familiar dishes, City Walk then expanded to offer a dinner menu, as well.

“We’ve been growing ever since,” said restaurant owner and manager Travis Tong.

“We made it through

COVID by offering family-style meals to-go and have been going strong ever since. We have never really done a lot of marketing; fortunately, we’ve been able to rely on growing our business by letting our customers get the word out.

We focus on great customer service and food quality, and let the word spread.”

Travis grew up in the restaurant business. His father, Anthony Tong, was the former chef of Gabe’s Tower and Chef’s Kitchen.

Travis tried his

own hand at being a restaurateur with the opening of Brickhouse Pizza in 2014 and the Local in 2016.

“Third time’s the charm,” Travis joked.

“With the experience from

those two places under my belt, the foundation for success was laid for City Walk.”

The name “City Walk” was chosen to tie in with the names of some other downtown businesses such as River Walk Barbershop, demonstrating the new restaurant’s desire to join the already existing downtown vibe and add its own unique flavor.

“We love being a part of the

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“Our

and the traditional Bloody Mary, as well as a long

vibe is comfortable but not too elevated. Some

list of bourbons for the barrel-aged whiskey

customers show up in business suits, some in

connoisseur. Their wine list boasts a 2014 Silver

work clothes.

Oaks cabernet, for those celebrating special

downtown scene,” remarked Travis.

Some order high-end steaks,

others get burgers. There’s a little something

occasions.

“We do have some rare bourbons,” noted

for everyone.”

City Walk’s dishes are traditional, yet unique,

Travis.

“And an occasional Pappy.

There’s a

or as Travis described, “Meals you don’t normally

nice selection, but not too many choices to be

see any more in Owensboro.”

overwhelming.” chicken

The restaurant’s atmosphere is part of its

cordon bleu. It’s comfort food, but not common

allure, as is evident from the attractive and

anymore. We also have staples like meatloaf and

comfortable furnishings. From the hand-crafted

catfish, and have become known for our high-

tables made from bourbon barrels outside, to

end steaks.”

the tables, bar and hostess stand to the rustic

“We

offer

a

made-from-scratch

raises

flooring, the same attention to detail that guests

pasture-fed Black Angus cattle that are finished

find in the menu can be seen in the building itself.

with high-quality, corn-based feed ration, and

Having a hard-working and loyal staff is

Creekstone

Farms

out

of

Kansas

are one of the suppliers for City Walk’s steaks.

another

These grilled filets paired with add-ons like

success. “The core kitchen crew and chefs that

sauteed mushrooms and onions or bourbon

we have today are the same ones as the day we

glaze with bacon crumbles are a rare find for the

started. Not having turnover has helped us to

steak lover. Another treat for those with refined

be consistent and cohesive with our menu and

palates is City Walk’s beef wellington.

quality of food. And I couldn’t be more thankful

From flatbreads to baked mac and cheese

key

ingredient

in

the

restaurant’s

for them.”

to bourbon glazed pork loin, the lunch menu

Added Travis, “We are grateful for the

ranges from casual fare to gourmet and comfort

community and the people who support us. We

food. City Walk’s convenient location offers a

want people to feel welcome here and to come

perfect venue for hosting business meetings or

to City Walk and just relax with family and friends

casual luncheons.

and make memories. Looking to the future, we

City Walk also has an exciting cocktail and spirits assortment, including staples like sangria

hope to become a permanent fixture in downtown Owensboro for years to come.” OL

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Flavor R E C I P E

Easy-to-Make Healthy Snacks Recipes and photos by J A M I E P L A I N

Eating healthy isn’t always the easiest thing to do. If you are a person that loves snacking, there are a lot of times that you just crave something crunchy or sweet. With very little prep work, these snack recipes are a great way to help you satisfy the cravings with healthier options. You don’t have to feel like you are neglecting yourself from anything to make small changes that will lead towards a healthier lifestyle!

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas INGREDIENTS 2 15oz. cans chickpeas 3 Tbsp olive oil 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 2 tsp paprika 1 tsp chili powder 1 tsp cumin INSTRUCTIONS

Note: this recipe uses a spicy mixture, but chickpeas can be seasoned in many different ways. Use your own combination when tossing in olive oil! Make sure to try ranch seasoning, BBQ seasoning, or cinnamon sugar versions!

1. Preheat an oven to 400 degrees. Drain

the cans of chickpeas, rinse them, and roll them between two kitchen towels to dry them out as much as possible. The more dry you get them, the crispier they will be.

2. Toss the chickpeas in a bowl with the

olive oil and all of the seasoning until they are all evenly coated. Then spread them out in a single-layer on a baking sheet.

3. Roast the chickpeas in the oven for 3040 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on them towards the end, as they’ll start to burn quickly! Once they are cooked, Enjoy!

Let them cool completely before storing.

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Cucumber “Bagel” Bites INGREDIENTS 2 cucumbers 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese 2 Tbsp plain greek yogurt Everything Bagel seasoning (to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Cut your cucumbers into thin and uniform slices.

2. In a small bowl, mix together your

cream cheese and greek yogurt until smooth. Put in a piping bag and add a dollop to each cucumber slice (or just spread on with a knife).

3. Top with Everything Seasoning and enjoy!

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Flavor R E C I P E

Banana Bars INGREDIENTS 3 ripe bananas 1/3 cup natural peanut butter 4 oz. melted chocolate Crushed peanuts to taste INSTRUCTIONS 1. Cut a banana into two (or three, depending on

size) pieces, then slice them lengthwise down the middle.

2. Spread peanut butter over the flat side of each

banana piece. Melt chocolate in the microwave and drizzle it over the peanut butter.

3. Chop or crush peanuts and sprinkle them on top of the chocolate. Place the banana slices on a pan to freeze.

4. In 2+ hours, take the bananas you plan on eating out and let them sit for a few minutes (to make them a bit easier to eat). Enjoy! OL

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Flavor D I S H

What we’re eating now Eating healthy isn’t always easy. But what about drinking your vitamins? Fresh juices are a great option as a snack or a meal replacement. And if you don’t have a juicer at home, or simply don’t want to deal with the prep work and messy cleanup, these local juices are a great choice!

Wheatgrass Juice Bar

GET GOING ORANGE, BLOCK PARTY LEMONADE, AND HITCHIKER Each juice combines different fresh, organic ingredients such as carrot, ginger, lemon and greens. Grab one on the go from their fridge, or create your own combination.

Gene’s Health Food PUMP UP THE BEET

This juice, made with organic ingredients, includes carrot, beet, orange and ginger. If you’re looking for something extra, add a Breath of Fire Shot, which consists of ginger, lemon, coconut sugar, reverses osmosis water and cayenne.

Hart & Soul

Their cold-pressed offerings often include tasty tropical flavors like pineapple and ginger. Usually found at the Farmers Market, their juices are also available at Niko’s Bakery, Sassafras, and Niko’s of 54.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

“When health is gone, the rest doesn’t count for much.”

Written by L O R A W I M S AT T

M

any of us welcome the new year of 2023 with resolutions to improve our overall well-being. We promise

to stop smoking, improve our diets and get more exercise.

Our ancestors of 100 years ago were also thinking about health and wellness, but while their goals may have been similar, their specific areas of concern, and their methods of initiative were

inoculations,

vaccinations,

things in perspective, including what

very different.

quarantine visits, detection of physical

seems to us today to be an alarming

First, there was a kerfuffle about

defects and other “splendid work,” and

statistic that was presented as relatively

who would oversee public health in

altogether would have cost $200,000 if

“good news” 100 years ago: The infant

our community. A newspaper article

the work had been done privately.

mortality rate in Daviess County was

Rabies treatments alone were valued

published on Feb. 24, 1923, announced that the establishment of the Daviess

at $33,750.

County Board of Health “didn’t meet

Records “suspects”

law.”

smallpox

“only” 75 per 1,000 births for the first 10 months of 1923. Statewide, the

also

documented

134

childhood mortality rate showed that 65

examined

for

percent of those died during their first

being

month of life.

had

tuberculosis at free clinics in Knottsville,

established the local board of health

Habit, Sorgho and Owensboro, with 30

But children weren’t the only ones

in 1919 – at which time it adopted a

of those examined showing “definite

with worries about health and wellness.

resolution to appropriate $5,000 a year

signs of infection.” An examination

Ladies of the day were cautioned that

toward its maintenance, with a matching

of data concluded there were probably

“beauty always wanes when health is

amount to be granted by the state board

about 500 active cases of TB in Daviess

neglected” – but another (slightly more

of health. However, the appellate court

County.

forward-thinking) article also directed

It

seems

that

fiscal

court

in Frankfort determined that the health

“As will be noted under statistics,”

toward the ladies scoffed at the notion

newspaper

that a healthy-looking female ran the

department had not been established at

a

article

reported,

“six

a regular meeting, as required by law.

hundred and eighteen visits have been

risk of “looking like a peasant.”

The issue was eventually resolved,

made by staff nurses for the purpose of

Gone

of course, and later that year, the

rendering bedside care and instructing

trumpeted,

Owensboro

Messenger-Inquirer

patients with the disease how to live

pardonable and expected for the young

reported that the Daviess County Board

that others would not be infected

girl to faint at dances or to be missing

of Health’s “worth is proven.”

by them. Many of the patients were

at dinner … because of a headache or a

From March to December, the board

charity patients and eggs, milk and

‘slight indisposition.’”

had documented 20,000 nursing visits

medicines were supplied free by the

Be careful, ladies, the writer warned:

by its staff. In addition to those visits,

Anti-Tuberculosis society, with money

Men were watching! “The young girl

which were valued at the rate of 75 cents

derived from the sale of Christmas

employ(ed) to be your stenographer

a call, were a wide spectrum of services

seals.”

somehow makes a bad impression the

such as food and dairy inspections,

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Time has a way of putting a lot of

are

the

days,

this

writer

when

“it

was

quite

first day if you see her taking digestive

tablets after luncheon.”

Not that men were immune from criticism!

As reported in another article, one-fifth of the Class 1 men examined for the American army during the World War (back when there was only one of those) were found “physically unfit to perform any kind of military service either at home or abroad.”

“Defects of the bones and the organs of locomotion” were the most common causes of rejection, followed by diseases of the heart and blood vessels, diseases of the eyes … and tuberculosis.

Rhode Island ranked worst, as far as military recruits were concerned, with 42 percent of RI residents “so physically defective that they were rejected.”

There was a theory for this: Rhode Island’s “bad showing, according to experts, was due to being a factory state.”

The article concluded that “money-mad America thinks too much about its natural resources and industrial products, not enough about our greatest product – the human being and his health.

“Health should always come foremost. … Personal health is nine-tenths up to the individual.

“Get plenty of wholesome food, sleep, fresh air and outdoor exercise, and, barring the bad luck of incurring germ disease, health will be fairly good on the average. In particular, the auto driver should lock up his car and go about on foot at least one day a week.

“When health is gone, the rest doesn’t count for much.”

Hmm. Those closing lines have stood the test of time, with their advice as strong and healthy now as they were 100 years ago. OL

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