Owensboro Living - March / April 2021

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Contents

MARCH/ APRIL 2021 TRENDING 8 BEHIND

THE SCENES

The inside scoop on the making of the magazine.

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.

LIFESTYLE 28 H O M E Owensboro Living and Laura Ruth Edge collaborated with local businesses for a one-of-a-kind interior.

40 H E A L T H Manage stress with these helpful hints.

FLAVOR 56 R E C I P E Cookies that smell as good as they

FEATURES

14 JACOB KIPER: A PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION STORY Not only has Jacob Kiper found a way to connect with an important piece of his past, but he has also been on a weight loss journey that helped him to reconnect with his children and himself, too.

taste.

18 SERVICE HAS NO AGE LIMIT

Owensboro native Mark Gaddis is a gameshow fan and veteran, and now has one big win under his belt.

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

What we’re eating now: Local dishes

How Renee Beasley Jones went from writing about non-profits to finding a second career working for one through Americorps.

we can’t live without!

B Y M E L O D Y WA L L A C E

Bill’s Restaurant: Untraditional Fare

BY LAURA MURPHY

22 MARK GADDIS: OWENSBORO’S WINNING LINK

59 D I S H

60 R E S TA U R A N T

SPOTLIGHT

in a Storied Setting.

24 HUNTERS FOR THE HUNGRY Local hunters on a mission to provide food for those in need.

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

SPECIAL SECTION

43 HOME & GARDEN

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

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Trending B E H I N D

THE SCENES

EDITOR ’S NOT E

A Glimmer of Hope and a Helping Hand

O

ur last issue hit stands in early January. At the time we went to print, prior to Christmas 2020, I felt like there was hope in the air—hope that 2021 would be different, and bring some much-needed relief.

Since that time, we’ve witnessed an attack on the US Capitol, and as I write this in mid-February, nearly 3,000 Americans per day are still dying from COVID-19. But we can’t ignore the good news, like the fact that millions of people are being vaccinated, including those in our own community. These are the things that continue to provide us with glimmers of hope that we had at the end of last year. And I am optimistic that, at least with respect to the pandemic, our country is trending in the right direction.

But even after COVID has claimed its last victim, I fear the fallout that will follow. Because in addition to the health risks associated with the virus, millions of people have been unemployed and on the brink of losing their homes. Government assistance has been somewhat effective in mitigating the damage in the short-term, but when that dries up, where does it leave those who are already struggling? I realize that this is a nationwide problem, but it also affects us right here in Owensboro. That means, if we truly care about our neighbors, we have to step up and offer them a hand. Give freely of your time, money and resources, and do so without passing judgment. It’s not our role to determine how or why someone found themselves struggling financially. No one wants to lose their job or their home, but it has happened and will happen to thousands of people in our own backyard, and all of those people need our help. Fortunately, we are blessed to have a great network of hardworking non-profits. Visiting volunteerowensboro.com is a great place to start if you’re not sure where to donate. And know that doing so may give someone that little bit of hope that all of us need right now.

STEVEN WILSON, EDITOR steven@owensboroliving.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR

Steven Wilson PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jamie Alexander Marlys Mason Laura Murphy Melody Wallace Lora Wimsatt COPY EDITOR

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

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

Brock Quinton Robert Williams

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 888-304-5416 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY S TA F F P H O T O G R A P H E R

Jamie Alexander

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

Andrea Roberson AD DESIGNER

Monica Smith

DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey

To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 888-304-5416.

SUBSCRIBE

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W H AT I ’ M RE A D I N G Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City Though published before the pandemic, Matthew Desmond’s book is a timely read given the dire circumstances that so many Americans

ONLINE

owensboroliving.com issuu.com/tannerpublishing owensboroliving owensboroliving

oboroliving

find themselves in. Set in Milwaukee during the financial crisis of 2007-2008, the work follows eight families through their stories of eviction, and provides insight into the psychological and financial toll inflicted upon them when they are left homeless. Desmond also examines how race and gender are factors in the eviction process, and how it exacerbates the cycle of poverty.

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

TANNER PUBLISHING CO. 2624-A New Hartford Rd. Owensboro, KY 42303 888-304-5416

ON T HE COV E R

We usually showcase an amazing Owensboro home—one with exceptional architecture, design, style, or all three combined. This time around, for our Home & Garden issue, we wanted to go in a slightly different direction. So our publisher, Jason Tanner, pitched the idea of an “Owensboro Room” staged and filled with products and items from local

Most liked story from January LIGHTING UP DOWNTOWN WRIT TEN BY MARLYS MASON PHOTO BY TANNER+WEST

vendors and businesses. With the help of Laura Ruth Edge, Stephanie Hardesty, and many many more, the project grew from a room to an “Owensboro House”! Lots of hard work and coordination on the part of the local businesses involved went into

S U B S C RI BE TO OWE N SB O RO LI VI NG! We’re proud to offer our publication free to our readers at multiple sites throughout Owensboro. But since times are changing, and COVID-19 has made it difficult to visit some of our favorite local spots, we’re excited to now offer subscriptions to Owensboro Living. Readers can get all 6 issues delivered to their doors for $20/year. Or for $30/year, subscribers can receive every issue of Owensboro Living and Owensboro Parent.

To subscribe now, visit owensboroliving.com/subscribe.

making the vision a reality. The result is a one-of-a-kind home that features the products and workmanship from some of the businesses that make Owensboro special.

Cover photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

MARLYS MASON, Writer Marlys was born in Indiana and has lived most of her life in Owensboro, but she considers herself a “lake girl,” because of her summers spent in Minnesota each year.

She fell into writing because of her editing skills as a high school English teacher before becoming a published writer at Owensboro Times and Owensboro Living.

She has returned to the classroom as a middle school language arts teacher with DCPS’ Virtual Academy and often shares the writing process in hopes of getting more kids writing.

When she is not writing and teaching, she enjoys playing tennis, cooking and spending time with her husband, two kids and golden retriever.

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

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Trending N E W S W O R T H Y

5 things we’re talking about now

2 Black History Month Parade Dozens of vehicles participated in a parade to celebrate Black History Month on February 6.

Event organizers said they were excited by the great turnout and positivity that helped kick off a month-

RICHARDSON

long celebration honoring Black communities, cultures and leaders. The

Photo by RYAN

event began at the H.L. Neblett Community Center at noon as a caravan of vehicles lined up to drive

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Fetta Grows Under New Ownership After several decades in the restaurant industry, Dennis Weafer purchased Fetta Specialty Pizza & Spirits in September. Undeterred by the pandemic, Weafer took his love for pizza and his restaurant experience, and revitalized the downtown eatery. In addition to new seasonal offerings and specialty pizzas, Weafer has also changed the atmosphere inside by featuring the work of local artists on the walls.

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

in a loop from west to east Owensboro and back. The H.L. Neblett Center teamed up with the Owensboro Black Expo and the Northwest Neighborhood Alliance (NWNA) to make Saturday’s parade happen.

Larry “Chick” Owen, director of recreation at the Neblett Center, said he was pleasantly surprised by the high turnout.

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

5 Community Rallies for Mural Restoration In our January issue, we brought you the story of the new mural at Kendall Perkins Park.

Painted by Aaron Kizer in collaboration with the

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Northwest Neighborhood

Gov. Beshear Appoints Smith-Wright to Advisory Board

Alliance, the project was a celebration of Black history. Unfortunately,

Pamela Smith-Wright was recently appointed by Gov. Andy Beshear to

shortly thereafter,

the Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) Advisory Board for a two-

someone senselessly

year term. Smith-Wright said she was recommended to the board by J.D.

defaced the painting with

Chaney, executive director for the Kentucky League of Cities. Smith-

racial slurs. But in a show

Wright had previously served on the KLC’s 18-member executive

of unity and to send a

board of directors, representing communities of all sizes across the

message that Owensboro

state. “Transportation is important in this Commonwealth,” she said.

will not tolerate such

“There are things I can bring to Owensboro as far as highways and

hate, individuals and

other important roadways that are needed here.”

businesses have donated money, security cameras and lighting to bring

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the project back to life.

Team Kentucky Donates to Pitino Shelter

Both the City and the County have pledged to contribute money, too.

The Daniel Pitino Shelter is

These resources will

one of 19 qualified nonprofit

be used both to restore

organizations receiving

the mural, and also to

statewide

$20,000

help prevent this type

each

from the Team Kentucky

of vandalism from

Fund, Gov. Andy Beshear

happening again.

announced Each

nonprofit

Kentuckians prevent

Monday. by

serves helping

homelessness

and/or assisting families impacted by the opioid epidemic. According to a release, Beshear focused on addressing homelessness and the opioid epidemic because those two crises have worsened

Photo by

AP IMAGERY

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

significantly since the start of the pandemic, compounding the challenges families impacted by COVID-19 face.

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

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A PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION STORY

Jacob Kiper Written by L A U R A M U R P H Y

Photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

Jacob Kiper understands what it means to undergo personal transformation.

Not only has he found a way to connect with an important piece of his past, but he has also been on a weight loss journey that helped him to reconnect with his children and himself, too.

W

hen his father passed away from cancer in 1992, he left his 10-year-

old son a special gift. Though he did not know it at the time, that gift was a bit of a legacy in the making — and decades later allowed Jacob to identify with his father in a way he could have never imagined.

“Four years ago, my mom told me she

had saved the last bottle of Maker’s Mark that was my dad’s. When she asked me if I wanted it, I took it,” Kiper said.

Although

Kiper

says

he

had

no

previous interest in bourbon, he decided to pick up the book “American Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye: A guide to America’s Favorite Spirit” by Clay Risen as a way to

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

feel connected with his father.

personal letter, letting him know

him a way to reconnect to his sons

that his story touched them.

and to life.

a lot about bourbon,” Kiper said.

“Being from Kentucky, that was a

and it was viewed by 1.63 million

since I joined Weight Watchers.

bit unacceptable.”

“I realized that I did not know

“I shared the letter they sent me,

“January 14th marked three years

people, which is absurd,” Kiper

Growing up, weight was a stumbling

tasting,

said. “The letter meant something

block for me. I was obese much of

and continued his discovery of the

to a lot of people. I shared it for a few

my life,” Kiper said.

distilled spirit’s history by picking

friends that I interact with. I did not

Kiper had two main goals in

up new books every time he got the

expect Maker’s Mark to see it; it was

mind—to be a better dad to his

chance.

a bit of an emotional moment.”

8-year-old twin boys, Reid and

Sam, and to live longer.

He

started

bourbon

“I finished my 260th book

While Maker’s Mark is the drink

said.

that started his interest in bourbon

“I am currently reading number

as a hobby, he has decided to dive

and I couldn’t fit into any of the

261. It’s a way for me to identify

headfirst into his study of American

rides. My kids had never known a

with something my dad enjoyed,

whiskey history. And he has another

dad who could physically chase after

decades later. Dad had been through

150 books still on his reading list.

them the way a young kid wants

numerous cases of cancer over the

from their dad,” Kiper said.

years. I did not know much about

a product that my dad enjoyed with

A breakthrough moment came

what my dad enjoyed.”

about

In

booze

history,”

November,

he

Kiper

“I love being able to understand

“We would go to Holiday World

his friends,” Kiper said. “My mom

when Kiper was 90 pounds into his

posted

also appreciates that 28 years later I

weight loss journey.

what

have a way to connect with my dad.”

that bottle meant to him on the

Aside from his special journey

outside, and I tried chasing my

anniversary of his dad’s death.

to

his

kids, and I realized I could actually

When Maker’s Mark officials saw

father enjoyed, Kiper encountered

run after them. It was quite the

the Twitter post, they sent Kiper a

a personal breakthrough, offering

revelation to realize that I could. I

on

Twitter

and

Facebook

understand

something

“About two years ago, we were

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still had quite a bit to go, but just

of six slices of pizza, I have two.

drink in moderation—one for

knowing I could chase them was a

I don’t overeat anymore, and I do

the respect for alcohol and one

revelation to me,” Kiper said.

portion control,” Kiper said.

because I have to count it into my

Kiper

points and my health journey,”

everything

16

remembers he

could

trying to

Today, his lab work is good.

lose

His cholesterol went from high to

Kiper said.

weight, and becoming frustrated

healthy, a significant change for

when the diet would end, and

someone with a family history of

poor eating habits would take him

heart disease and diabetes.

right back to where he started.

“I have had weight loss

I realized genetically, I was a

success in the past and it didn’t

ticking time bomb waiting to

last—I didn’t do it in a healthy

happen. I realized that I am not

manner. I wouldn’t eat much,

going to die an early death from

follow a super strict, super rigid

being obese—it took a lot of

diet. I would have one bad day

stress off me and my family.”

of eating, the towel would get

thrown in, and I would give up. I

benefits of his weight loss is that

was trying to do it on my own,”

he truly feels healthy now.

Kiper said.

“I no longer worry about

In January 2018, he made a

diabetes or dying from a heart

decision that changed his life.

attack,” Kiper said. “This has

“Something just clicked this

given me the physical ability to be

time. I thought I would give

a better dad than I was before.”

Weight Watchers one more try

As far as his bourbon goes,

and this time, I found that I could

Kiper says a respect for alcohol

do this,” Kiper said.

means portion control there, too,

an aspect that is still considered

At the start of his weight loss,

“My dad had a heart attack.

Kiper says one of the positive

It’s hard to picture the place he

was three years ago when he made the decision to make a lifestyle change. From becoming a more active dad, to having energy and feeling good about himself, Kiper has reaped the benefits of a new life.

“I am thankful for getting off

the couch, being energetic with my kids, things I didn’t do before.

Today, I do push-ups and planks every day. I have met my weight loss goals and I am trying to be a more active dad,” Kiper said.

Kiper’s advice for others who

want to see their own personal transformation

is

simple—try

not to give up.

“I started and failed at getting

healthy dozens of times and this time it stuck. It is something I can

he weighed 280 pounds. Now at

under what he consumes.

162 pounds; Kiper says he looks

“If I want to consume a glass,

maintain for a lifetime, unlike

the healthiest and he feels really

I count the points for it. It is

other things I tried which are

good where he is at right now.

one of my pleasures in life, and

not long term or sustainable. Try

“This process has re-educated

I work it into the program with

not to give up if you fail, because

me. Nothing is off-limits; I just

me. It doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy

eventually it will stick,” Kiper

look at food differently. Instead

the occasional beer or liquor. I

said. OL

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

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Service Has No Age Limit Written by M E L O D Y WA L L A C E Photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

F

or nearly three decades, Renee

really one of my goals when I retired.

the Corporation for National and

Beasley Jones has been writing,

AmeriCorps made it possible for me to

Community Service (CNCS). These

reporting and serving her community

do it in a meaningful way.”

volunteers receive a modest yearly

in some capacity. Whether it was

serving as the marketing director

perfect opportunity for Beasley Jones

stipend, along with other benefits

for

Symphony

to reduce the number of hours she

relations

was working and still be involved in

manager for Kenergy, or as the Arts

helping the community, at age 66, she

and Entertainment reporter for the

was initially afraid she wouldn’t meet

Messenger-Inquirer,

the requirements.

the

Orchestra,

Owensboro the

public

Beasley

Jones

While AmeriCorps seemed to be the

such as healthcare, childcare, and an educational award to help with college expenses. Each organization that hosts an AmeriCorps volunteer is required to contribute a matching

has found a way to make a positive

“I

them

cash donation of $5,250. According to

impact in her community. In December

(AmeriCorps workers),” she said. “I

Pedigo, Beasley Jones’ position was

2020, the Henderson, Kentucky native

would just always assume AmeriCorps

made possible through an Audubon

decided to hang up her reporter hat

and VISTA positions were for people

Area joint grant written to include five

and retire. However, she allowed very

just starting their careers, trying new

local non-profit organizations.

little time to go by before setting out

things,

on her next altruistic adventure.

because all the AmeriCorps people I

knew were young people in their 20s

“I’ve been fortunate that my first

would

getting

tour at the Messenger-Inquirer was as

and their 30s.”

the arts and entertainment reporter,

According

and

website,

I

reported

on

non-profits,”

interview

their

to

educations...

the

AmeriCorps

“AmeriCorps

is

an

“Typically, with most AmeriCorps

and VISTA volunteers, they work so well they work themselves into a position, because you can't afford to lose their value,” Pedigo said. “She's

Beasley Jones said. “I think that’s

opportunity for individuals of all ages

going to be one we don't want to lose—

where I got my first glimpse of, ‘Wow!

and backgrounds to give their time and

she's already that valuable.”

Look what they’re doing.’ Non-profits

talent to strengthen communities.”

are really what make the world go

When Beasley Jones discovered

Jones has been with the shelter, Pedigo

round, and I think we often lose sight

that there was no upper age limit, she

said she has created new and innovative

of that in our communities.”

knew her prior experience would be

campaigns that have helped to not only

the perfect fit for the shelter.

destigmatize homelessness, but have

On

August

30,

Jones

wrote

a

Owensboro regarding

two

2020, story

Beasley for

the

“The St. Benedict’s job was made

Messenger-Inquirer

for me,” she said. “It had all the

AmeriCorps

components I did for many years—

VISTA

grant

writing

geared

In the two short months Beasley

also generated close to 15 new monthly contributors to the shelter.

“To me that's huge,” Pedigo said.

(Volunteers in Service to America)

fundraising,

positions available at St. Benedict’s

more towards outreach—those are

Homeless Shelter and River Valley

things I've done my entire life.”

that are nearing retirement, but are

Behavioral Health, respectively. Then,

still looking to serve the community, to

in anticipation of her retirement in

set and amount of experience Beasley

consider a position with AmeriCorps.

November, she found herself applying

Jones

for the St. Benedict’s AmeriCorps

invaluable.

who are 21 years old and going to

position. Beasley Jones recalls joking

“I’ve been working with Renee for

college—it’s for people who are at the

with St. Benedict’s Executive Director

a long time; she’s very special that’s

Harry Pedigo for approximately two

for sure,” Pedigo said. “She brings

end of their working years and thinking

years that she was going to retire and

a lot of wisdom and experience with

come work for him.

her, but also life experience, too. She’s

“Every time I would interview

also done a lot of corporate work.

Harry, I was so impressed,” Beasley

That determination that she’s had to

Jones said. “This AmeriCorps position

succeed and be passionate about what

that you didn't have when you were

is like my dream come true. I’ve always

she does—it shows without a doubt.”

30, 40, or even 50. You don't get those

been so close to St. Benedict’s and

AmeriCorps

skills overnight, they come with years

Harry, to share in that experience was

funded by federal money through

Pedigo agrees that the diverse skill brings

to

the

position

volunteers

are

are

Beasley Jones encourages others

“AmeriCorps isn't just for people

about retirement—it's a way to give back,” Beasley Jones said. “Honestly, when you reach the end of your career, you have so much talent, and job skills

of experience.” OL

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

SPONSORED CONTENT

KISHOR VOR A M.D. STANDS AGAIN ST AM PUTATION the global map by becoming the first

was examined in the morning,

MD,

person in the world to use a device

revascularization was done in the

FACC, FSCAI has been practicing

that removes large blood clots

evening, and was able to go home the

Interventional

and

from arteries and veins. There is no

same day! Imagine that for someone

Endovascular Medicine for over 30

peripheral disease complexity that

who was told they were going to lose

years in Owensboro, KY. While he

he feels uncomfortable performing

their limb just the previous week!

continues to see patients for heart,

at his OBL. The time, money and

vein and artery disease at his office

effort

this

teamwork from all concerned units

and at the hospital, his profound

endeavor were enormous. But, his

for this success story - the local

passion is saving critical patients’

patients’ needs motivated him to

wound care team, the surgeon who

limbs from amputation.

bring his plans to fruition.

Dr. Vora was deeply interested

referred the case to Dr. Vora, the NP

in Peripheral Intervention because

that Peripheral Vascular Disease

he realized that a large percentage

patients often present with non-

of

health

healing wounds. Consequently, as he

issues due to Peripheral Arterial

realized he had to work closely with

Disease (PAD). But unfortunately,

a wound clinic, Dr. Vora decided to

the symptoms, like leg pain or

open VORA Wound Healing Centre

swollen ankles, are not seen as

with his team last October.

“life-threatening”. So, most people

don’t approach specialists until it is

ensures

too late. PAD starts as blockage in

treatment is offered to complex

arteries of legs. If left untreated, this

CLI patients. One such stark case

can lead to severe blockages, cutting

that Dr. Vora dealt with recently

off blood supply to our extremities.

was a 54-year old patient from a

This condition is called Critical Limb

neighboring county who had severe

Ischemia (CLI), and can lead to limb

diabetic foot ulcer, and calcified

Dr. Vora affirms that he would love

amputation.

plaque blocking his limb artery. The

to work with other specialists to

Dr. Vora believes amputation to

patient had already been referred

ensure holistic care for a patient.

be absolutely avoidable in most of

for amputation. However, because

Although

complex

CLI

the cases. So, to help his patients

of some complications, the team

intervention

procedures

mean

better, Dr. Vora decided to open his

decided to refer the case to Dr. Vora

longer hours at work, Dr. Vora

own Office-Based Lab (OBL) in 2019.

for his interventional expertise.

derives immense satisfaction from

Here, he is able to use cutting-edge

Dr. Vora removed the blockage

the improved quality of life that his

technology and devices, and achieve

using an Atherectomy device, and

patients lead post procedures. With

quick results for his patients. In

opened up the artery to improve his

a serene smile on his face, he says,

fact, he recently put Owensboro on

blood circulation. So, the patient

“For me, that is enough.” OL

Kishor Vora M.D. Stands Against

AmputationKishor

people

face

Vora,

Cardiology

chronic

needed

for

starting

From his experience, he knows

This multidisciplinary approach that

a

more

holistic

Dr. Vora credits the efficient

at Owensboro Heart and Vascular (OHV) w ho assessed the patient, the Diagnostic Tech at OHV, the OHV Cath lab staff who stayed back late to take care of the patient and all the support staff. All over the US, Primary Care Doctors, Diabetes Specialists/

Endocrinologists,

Orthopedics, Nephrologists,

Podiatrist, Interventionists,

and Surgeons are working together to

accelerate

wound

healing,

prevent amputation, and improve quality of life for these patients. So,

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

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MARK GADDIS

OWENSBORO’S

Winning Link Written by M A R LY S M A S O N

O

wensboro

a

having a Skype interview for

itself is just as fun.

“The

the show, which he said went

Weakest Link,” a trivia-

really well, Gaddis was cast to

the episode, is very cool, and it is

style show that runs on NBC.

tape in early September 2020 in

every bit as amazing in person,”

Mark

winning

Gaddis,

now link

has to

originally

from

“The stage, as you can see in

Hollywood, California.

he said. “The whole experience

Los

“I love game shows, always

was nerve-wracking, but in the

Angeles, won $59,000 on the

have,” said Gaddis, who also

best way.”

game show on Oct. 19, 2020.

made a 2018 appearance on the

Gaddis said that all safety

Owensboro

but

living

in

The show, based on a British

Game Show Network’s “America

protocols were in place, and that

version, has eight contestants

Says.” That show pits two teams

he felt very comfortable taping

each episode who are strangers,

of family and friends against

the show during the pandemic.

but must work together to bank

one another to guess America’s

the maximum amount of money

responses to survey questions

Gaddis knew he had won, he still

each round, building chains with

from around the country.

was unable to discuss it due to

their answers that raise the total

As for auditioning for “The

a contract that each contestant

prize money. This all happens

Weakest Link,” Gaddis quipped, “I

signs

while host Jane Lynch verbally

couldn’t pass up the opportunity

regardless of winning or losing.

punches the contestants as one,

to get insulted by Jane Lynch on

considered the “Weakest Link,” is

national television.”

it, but I wouldn’t talk about it at all

voted off each round.

Gaddis said that being on the

so as not to give it away,” he said.

show was fun, and that the set

“I wasn’t allowed to publicize it at

After

22

applying

online

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

and

When the taping was over, and

prior

to

the

taping,

“Some people knew I had taped

Photos by C H R I S H A S T O N / N B C | 2 0 2 0 N B C U N I V E R S A L M E D I A , L L C .

all until it was going to air, and even

“I barely mentioned that I had

has changed for him since winning,

then I could only help promote the

done it, so they never thought to

due to the ongoing pandemic and

episode, but couldn’t say how I did

ask me about it when we talked,”

inability to celebrate, which he

until it aired.”

he said.

plans to do with friends after the

As for friends in Los Angeles, he

Los Angeles lockdown ends, he has

Gaddis graduated from Apollo High

said that since he hasn’t seen them

realized that social media is a tool

School and his family still lives,

as much since the pandemic, he

that allows strangers to find him.

were unaware he had even been

was able to steer the conversation

“I

a contestant due to not traveling

away from the show until it aired.

people reached out to me after my

home to visit during the pandemic.

appearance. Who knew?” he said. OL

And people in Owensboro, where

And while he said that not much

was

shocked

how

many

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

23

Hunters FOR THE Hungry Written by M A R LY S M A S O N Photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

S

ee a need, fill a need. It’s a simple phrase, but one that, when acted upon, can have a profound impact. That’s exactly why Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry was formed. A grassroots

effort that began in 1988 and formally incorporated in 2000, the organization has funded the processing of deer for use by various

24

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

non-profit organizations for over

“KHFH’s

20 years.

alongside

come

Bank of McLean county has also

local

been working very hard to use a

“In general, each harvested

organizations provide protein to

local chapter of this program to

deer yields, on average, 40 pounds

families in need,” he said. “We

service needs in their community.

of ground venison,” said Jeremy

are not trying to take over and do

They were responsible for funding

Shiflet,

for

our own thing, we are just trying

the processing of 60 deer, or

Hungry

to make use of available, non-

another 2,400 pounds of venison

and Daviess County resident. “We

traditional resources to help the

for God’s House of Hope in 2019.

then estimate that four servings

local

In

are provided by each pound of

folks in need.”

processed venison.”

In

As the regional director of the

organization distributed around

Owensboro

organization, Shiflet is responsible

1,300 pounds of venison through

Baptist Church and CrossRoads

for identifying processors and

the Owensboro Help Office, New

Food

partnerships

Life Baptist Church and Walnut

650

beneficial to the nonprofit, as well

Memorial

through

Hope

as identifying organizations that

Daviess County, and another 1,400

Bank

Nortonville,

would benefit from assistance

pounds

House

County, and approximately 820

with KHFH. Shiflet also facilitates

of Hope Food Pantry in McLean

pounds through the Providence

the distribution of the processed

County, all of which came from

Community Food Bank in Webster

venison to local food banks and

deer donated during the 2019

County.

help offices.

hunting

Kentucky

regional Hunters

that

director for

would

be

role

is

and

help

organizations January

Baptist

through

season.

to

help

local

December

approximately 2020,

the

Church God’s

in

Independence

2020,

1,550

pounds

of venison were distributed in through

Pantry. pounds in

New

Life

An

additional

were

distributed

to

All

Food

Hopkins

“We estimate that KHFH will

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

25

end up with approximately 1,500

“Folks

struggling

although there are some who

deer donated and processed for

with various issues have enough

donate their time and materials,

the 2020-2021 hunting season,”

to contend with as it is without

Shiflet said. The venison is frozen

Shiflet said. “If we use that number,

needing to meet one of their most

in

we have 5,056 deer donated over

basic needs: food. And most of

packages, and then either food

the past three hunting seasons,

these same homes have children

banks or KHFH volunteers pick it

totaling 61,528 pounds of venison,

in them,” he said. “A lot of kids

up to distribute.

and

meals/servings

get the majority of their meals

Kentucky hunters participate

provided to Kentucky residents

during the week from school. With

by locally harvesting deer and

since 2018.”

schools running virtually most of

then taking them to a recognized

Shiflet said they try to help

the last 10 months, and a summer

KHFH processing facility. They

smaller,

as

break mixed in, meals have been

can also donate to cover the costs

those

tougher to come by for a lot of kids

of processing, which are often

organizations typically have fewer

and families.”

offered at a lower cost.

resources. And in this pandemic,

Using local meat processors

Donations are accepted from

Shiflet said food insecurity is a

to process deer legally harvested

September 1 through mid-January

“much bigger” problem than most

by

or the entirety of Kentucky’s deer

people realize.

the processors for their work,

much

26

235,288

as

local

food

possible

banks

since

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

local

who

are

hunters,

KHFH

pays

one-pound

hunting season. OL

or

two-pound

HOME: TYING THE ROOM (AND THE COMMUNITY) TOGETHER p. 28

WELLNESS: IMPROVE WELLNESS WITH BATHROOM UPGRADES p. 38

HEALTH: MANAGE STRESS WITH THESE HELPFUL HITS p. 40

→

Photo by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

LIFESTYLE

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

27

Lifestyle H O M E

Tying the Rooms

(and the community)

Together

Written by L A U R A M U R P H Y Photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

USING LOCAL PRODUCTS AND VENDORS, A LOCAL HOME, AND A LOCAL DESIGN TE AM, OWENSBORO LIVING COLL ABORATED WITH L AURA RUTH EDGE AND A HOST OF OWENSBORO BUSINESSES TO STAGE A ONE-OF-A-KIND PROJECT THAT SHOWCASES SOME OF THE FINEST QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP THAT OWENSBORO HAS TO OFFER. 28

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

Laura Ruth Edge, interior designer, and

Stephanie Hardesty, local realtor, have been

the project include interior design by Laura Ruth

friends since grade school.

Edge of L. Ruth Interior Design, home staging

When Hardesty entered the world of real

opportunity provided by Stephanie Hardesty,

estate a year ago, Edge got the opportunity to

Realtor with The Ryan Rutman Real Estate Group

enjoy their friendship in a new way. Sharing

of RE/MAX Professional Realty Group, Mantled

a passion for beautiful spaces and the unique

Home, WinSupply, Home Inspired, Studio 105,

needs of each client is something the pair know

Tom Blue Furniture, Integrity, Studio Slant,

well in their industry.

Disaster Team and painting by Mathey Services

Inc.

“Stephanie is a design enthusiast. It comes

Local businesses and vendors collaborating on

in handy as a real estate agent because instead

When looking for a space to stage using

of checking boxes off, she sees past that. She

local products and materials, Edge realized that

and I are able to collaborate and discuss trends

Hardesty’s house could be the perfect spot.

between the two industries; they have to exist

together,” Edge said.

a client of hers anyway and she’s my go-to for

To showcase local businesses and vendors,

ideas. I already had an interest in design, and I

Edge is leading a design team in a one-of-a-kind

knew she had a team in place. It was an awesome

project that proves there are numerous benefits

idea honestly,” Hardesty said.

to shopping local and supporting vendors within

the community.

housing market towards traditional floor plans.

“She started talking about doing this— I’m

Both agree there is somewhat of a shift in the

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

29

Lifestyle H O M E

Although the open concept will

showcasing

always have its place, the demands

plan

floor

“A different style of home or

the

repurposing rooms may be a need

of the past year have shown many

community can see an example of

for many clients. They may even

families that their space needs are

the best of both worlds.

need help to create a legitimate

changing.

“She has widened a few case

space in their home. These needs

“We look at what the client

openings in her home. All the rooms

design-wise and real estate wise

is experiencing right now from

tie together but at the end of the day,

are being created out of nowhere,”

a design standpoint, but also a

the room itself is multi-purpose.

Hardesty said.

functional standpoint. People had

You can have both worlds in one

to learn how to work from home,

space if necessary,” Edge said.

is starting to hit home that some

go to school from home, do all the

Both acknowledge that some of

changes society has encountered

things from home. They need spaces

the traditional floor plans may be

may be bigger than working from

big enough to gather, but also more

appreciated in a new way with the

home for six months.

personal space, too,” Edge said.

influx of so many working from

With

home.

may be longer-lasting for some

30

Hardesty’s

home

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

with

a

traditional

updated

spaces,

Hardesty believes the realization

“It’s odd to think these changes

people. We will help navigate this

something similar from clients—

only been a couple of weeks. People

for our clients one change at a time.

everyone has had to make do and

have it in stock here locally, and you

Design is so much more than putting

have created makeshift spaces for

don’t have to worry about waiting

pillows out; it’s about making your

these activities,” Hardesty said.

on a big box store to deliver it.”

home work for you, making it more

Hardesty said.

adequate for where your needs are,”

design and Hardesty’s expertise

One of the biggest perks of

Hardesty said.

in the housing market, staging a

shopping local is not having to

In most open concept houses,

space using only local products and

wait

the open space holds the kitchen

services fell into place. The pair have

collaboration piece has also been

and living room. The demand for a

enjoyed the transformation process

special for Edge, who says her job

multi-faceted room or a separate

and collaborating with community

would be nearly impossible without

space to do work has caused the

partners along the way.

partnership from businesses and

shift in housing needs.

vendors in this community.

“From a design perspective and

just spending time together. We’ve

“Everything we used for this

a real estate perspective, we see

put this together pretty quick; it’s

project was already available—it

With Edge’s passion for interior

“We’ve had a ball with it, even

for

pieces

to

arrive.

The

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

31

Lifestyle H O M E

all came from local stores who

each person is a master of their

in for this project, store owners

provided items to be staged. These

own craft. Whether it’s paint or

took pride in. They were proud

folks have been great partners to

flooring, or a different aspect of

of their business and wanted to

me—without them, we wouldn’t

design, she has found that each

showcase what they have to offer.

have been able to stage this space

business offers unique expertise.

They are experts in their area, and

and I couldn’t do my job without

I feel like I’m learning from them,”

“Everyone I have met takes

them,” Edge said.

As a design team, Edge is proud

pride in their work. It’s

to be able to provide so much for

important to them that they

people from their own resources

are doing things the right

and also from the resources of

way. That’s how I want to do

local vendors.

business. It’s inspiring to me,”

“We can plan a space and work

with clients, and then have the

HARDESTY SAID.

products delivered. We tailor things

Hardesty said.

The duo considers this space transformation

collaboration

project to be a huge success, and are thankful for those who partnered with them.

“We want the community to know how awesome it is to work together. This was an opportunity

specifically to our customers, a

As far as a goal for this project,

to see what it’s like to have things

very personalized process. No two

Hardesty hopes that readers will

in stock, to change a space or make

clients are alike, and no two spaces

see something they like and it

things

are alike,” Edge said.

will bring some exposure for the

can come right to your door from

One lesson Hardesty learned

business.

a local furniture store or home

working with local vendors is that

“Everything that was brought

boutique,” Edge said. OL

32

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

function

differently.

It

VENDOR LIST

Foyer

Funfetti pillows: Integrity

Floral art piece: Integrity

Custom framed pastel: Studio 105

Bar cart: Studio Slant

Custom framed bridge painting on wall: Studio 105

White and gold mirror: WinSupply

Living Room Painting of walls, trim and ceilings: Mathey Services (Cyrus Nale, Corey Mathey & Caleb Mathey) Ceiling paint: Benjamin-Moore Ultraspec Flat, 2144-70 Snowfall White Wall paint: Benjamin-Moore Aura Matte, CSP-605 Dusty Cornflower Trim paint: Benjamin-Moore Advance Satin, 2144-70 Snowfall White Three mirror panels: Home Inspired

Column capital coffee table: Home Inspired Brass tray: Client’s personal collection

White temple jar salt and pepper shakers: Studio Slant

Cream swivel rocker: Tom Blue Furniture

Rug: Client’s personal collection

Pillow with greenery: Integrity

Custom framed landscape: Studio 105

Yellow stripe/blue floral/velvet pillow: Mantled Home

Chest: Client’s personal collection

Dark brown leather recliner: Tom Blue Furniture

Gold mirror between windows: Client’s Personal Collection

Gold and glass lamps: WinSupply

Blue and white chinoiserie lamp: Client’s Personal Collection

Coral and white Plaid/Stripe Lumbar Pillows: Integrity Owensboro Bridge Print on side table: Studio Slant (artist Kelly McClelland)

Table and chairs: Client’s personal collection

Bubble blue ceramic planter and Plant: Integrity Nursery

Side tables: Client’s personal collection

Dark coral pillows with tassels: Integrity

Breakfast Room Blue and white chinoiserie pieces: Studio Slant

Sofa: Tom Blue Furniture

Gold laurel wreath stand: Mantled Home

Plant Spritzer: Integrity

Pale blue coasters: Studio Slant

Five custom framed authenticated paintings: Studio 105

Blue and white striped Picture frame: Studio Slant

Medallion draperies: Designer’s custom collection

Acrylic Louis XV style side chair: Designer’s Personal Collection

Large and small gold mesh aloe vases: Mantled Home Tall basket lantern: Mantled Home Console: Client’s Personal Collection Brushed gold lantern light: WinSupply Large gold scalloped mirror: WinSupply Two floral prints: Mantled Home

Custom framed American Pharaoh painting: Studio 105

Dark blue grey feathered porcelain vases: Mantled Home

Brown and cream zebra rug: Integrity Nursery

Gold vase filler: Mantled Home

Large fig plants in blue and white ceramic planters: Integrity Nursery Blue & white desk box/candle set: Studio Slant

Custom Framed Derby Painting by Leisel Long Chaintreuil: Studio 105

Multi colored leopard print tray: Studio Slant

Blue and white ginger jar: Studio Slant

Antique design: Designer’s personal collection

Blue and white lamp: Studio Slant Blue and white gingham tray: Studio Slant Cream quilted draperies and rod: Designer’s personal collection Brass lantern: Integrity Custom Gold Framed Pastel: Studio 105

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

33

Lifestyle H O M E COLORFUL KITCHEN INSPIRATION

5 impactful, on-trend cabinet stylings

of

popular design choice for several years,

making a luxurious, traditional statement

many homes, and careful planning is a

much like shades of white, no two grays

that can span ever-changing color trends.

necessity when it comes to redesigning

are exactly alike. Cabinet colors live on a

this essential living space. Picking out

color spectrum that ranges from warm to

A SEA OF BLUE

cabinetry—and a color for those cabinets,

neutral to dark; warm grays have yellow

in

or brown undertones while cool grays

kitchen cabinetry is the use of shades of

process. Everything from the style of your

have hushed hues of blue.

blue, which provide calming and restful

cabinets to the amount of natural light

Neutral gray, is a true black and

effects and the feeling of harmony and

your space receives are key factors to

white mixture of colors. However, many

serenity. Pops of blue can be used as an

consider when choosing an updated hue.

homeowners are opting for warmer or

accent color on islands or on either upper

While white cabinets are an everlasting

cooler shades instead. For example, light

or base cabinets. To balance out these

choice, and wood-stained cabinetry once

gray cabinets can create a chic, modern

dramatic darks, many homeowners are

held 70% of the market, painted cabinets

motif for homeowners looking to liven

opting to pair a bold color choice like a

now account for 70% of sales, signaling a

up their space while avoiding completely

navy hue with neutral to warm whites,

significant shift among homeowners and

white cabinetry. One of the latest gray

such as wool and bone white, to create a

their preferences.

trends is a warmer gray that can look

crisp, clean look. Gold hardware can be

almost beige, earning the nickname

used on navy cabinetry for an upscale and

A GRAY FOR EVERY MOOD

“greige.” Shades of dark gray—whether

regal look while silver-tone hardware

painted or stained—are also options for

provides a contemporary finishing touch.

34

The

kitchen

particular—can

is

be

the

a

heart

challenging

While gray cabinets have been a Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

One of today’s hottest trends in

While lighter shades of blue, like

had an all-white

aqua, are perfect for keeping spaces

look are getting a

light and airy, one of the latest colors to

facelift by adding

emerge is a mid-tone classic blue.

a burst of bright, bold

MIXED WOOD TONES

Even with the rise in painted

woods, stains are seeing a surge in popularity. The application of stain to

natural

wood

can

enhance

the

character of the cabinetry. Neutral color,

color

on

either the upper or base cabinets.

Adding retro

colorful appliances

or using the island

dimension, texture and soft luxury can

as a canvas for

be layered into nearly any space to create

an energetic and

a blended balance.

welcoming

of color can also

Wood grains typically pair well

with whites, grays, blues and brass

make

tones—all of which are popular colors

statement

in modern kitchens and other localized entertaining areas such as in-home refreshment areas or bars.

DARK DRAMA

Often overlooked as more of

an “accent” color, black has become

help

a

pop similar

create

and a

space unique to your

style

and

personality.

Many homeowners are even

pairing two or more complementary

livable, luxe and inviting with textured

colors to create two- and three-

woods adding rustic, homely charm.

toned looks. For example, lighter

Edgy but classic, black cabinets can pair

gray, Shale or blue can be used for the

perfectly with nearly any design element

upper cabinets with darker shades

still in its natural wooden state to create

used below for the base cabinetry, or a

a distinct style that is all your own.

neutral hue can be used on the uppers

MULTI-TONES AND UNEXPECTED POPS OF COLOR

While all-white palettes have

long reigned supreme in the kitchen for their timelessness and versatility, straying from neutral tones can add an

with a contrast color on the bottom. In three-toned kitchens, an additional color or material is introduced to create asymmetry in the palette to help define zones or functions and keep the eye moving. OL

energetic and welcoming feel to nearly any space. Smaller kitchens that once

Article provided by Wellborn.com

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

35

Lifestyle H O M E

How to Stay Safe During Your Remodel Amid COVID-19 Photo courtesy of G E T T Y I M A G E S

M

any

homeowners

still

However,

the

pandemic

has

their existing space, as well as

find themselves stuck at

changed the way homeowners and

provide

home due to the ongoing

remodelers

In

communicate

even

pictures

today’s

of

their

environment,

ideas. people

COVID-19 pandemic. With all the

before stepping foot on site. Doing

are enthusiastic to provide those

extra time spent indoors, some

as much pre-service consultation

photographs. If they want to take the

homeowners

re-evaluating

as possible over the phone, by

next steps then the contractor will

the space they occupy and turning

video meeting or through email is

meet them in person.

to remodelers to help them safely

recommended.

Like

and

Contractors

are

effectively

complete

home

improvement projects.

36

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

recommend

that customers take pictures of

any

remodeling

communication

between

project, the

homeowner and service provider

is key. Communicate any concerns

brought on site for the remodeling

maximizing

you may have to the contractor,

team. The team also masks up before

household while service providers

because they can’t address concerns

entering

if homeowners don’t open up.

take it a step further by designating

are on site, such as opening a window

entrance and exit paths for their

Despite concerns over health and

any

household.

Others

safety, members of the National

team to maintain social distancing.

Association

Homeowners can also do their

of

the

Remodeling

ventilation

in

the

or turning on the air conditioner.

The CDC also recommends using touchless

payment

options

or

paying over the phone, if possible.

Industry (NARI) are equipped to get

part

the job done safely and ethically.

environment for the remodeling

After any visit, remember to clean

Members pledge to adhere to a

team. If you’re working from home,

and

strict code of ethics that observes

try to set up your workstation in an

remodeling team may have come in

the highest standards of honesty,

area other than the one undergoing

contact with.

integrity and responsibility. One

renovations. It is also important

code is taking appropriate action

to

Despite

to preserve the health and safety of

remodeling

employees, trade contractors and

where communication is necessary,

clients.

homeowners should always wear a

Once on site, the remodelers

mask and remain at least two arm

adhere

lengths away from the contractor.

to

all

safety

protocols

to

maintain

limit

a

interactions team.

In

safe

with

work

the

instances

when entering a home. As with any

remodel, portable restrooms are

and Prevention (CDC) recommends

The Centers for Disease Control

disinfect

any

the

surfaces

precautions

the

both

homeowners and the remodeling team take, the timeline and budget of your remodeling project doesn’t have to be affected. OL Article provided by remodelingdoneright.com.

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

37

Lifestyle W E L L N E S S

W

ellness is at the forefront of

nearly

everyone’s

mind,

including

keeping germs at bay and creating surroundings that promote mental and physical health. Even small, but

important,

spaces

like

the

bathroom can benefit from changes with wellness in mind.

A bathroom can be one of the easiest rooms in your home to give a little extra TLC toward creating a healthier lifestyle. These costeffective measures can turn your bathroom into a more practical, functional

space

that

promotes

your well-being.

SWITCH UP SURFACES The

countertops

in

your

bathroom, much like the flooring, must be able to withstand a lot of water. Nonporous vanity tops, such as those made from quartz, hold up to being wet constantly and can help keep germs from breeding. In addition to being easy to clean, a solid-surface option like quartz never needs to be sealed or polished, making it an aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting option.

CL EAN GREEN Bathrooms are often hot and steamy places, and water vapors in the air can carry potentially harmful chemicals from cleaning products.

Green cleaning products are made

IMPROVE WELLNESS WITH

Affordable Bathroom Upgrades 38

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

to control the spread of bacteria and viruses using safe and effective means. Not only are they helpful in preventing asthma attacks and other

respiratory

ailments,

but

they are a low-cost way to improve overall indoor air quality.

What you use to clean yourself

is just as important. Using green or organic personal care items can help reduce toxin exposure and lessen the likelihood of an allergic reaction.

R E D U C E H UM I D I T Y All that steam can affect your health in other ways, too, since it creates a humid environment that encourages mold and mildew. A heated towel rack is an inexpensive way to add a touch of luxury to your space while generating heat that helps reduce humidity and the growth of mold and mildew, therefore benefitting indoor air quality.

Heated towel racks come in a variety of

finishes and styles to coordinate with your decor. Another advantage: Since the racks dry towels, they’ll stay mildew-free longer and don’t need to be washed as often, which helps save valuable natural resources.

E N H A NC E AI R Q UA L I T Y Creating a green, spa-like oasis with plants can bring wellness benefits that don’t break the bank. Indoor plants help rid the environment of pollutants, and the energy and ambiance they add may have mental health benefits, too. Plants like mother-in-law’s tongue or peace lily are popular options to incorporate as natural air purifiers.

E XP LOR E COLOR A bathroom’s color palette can also play a role in your wellness goals. Warmer shades like red and orange enhance energy while cooler colors like green and blue can be calming. OL Article provided by ambaproducts.com.

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

39

Lifestyle H E A L T H

SPONSORED CONTENT

MANAGE STRESS WITH THESE HELPFUL HINTS

H

as the COVID-19 pandemic left

right

you feeling out of sorts? Beyond

the

foot.

the physical toll it takes on those

breaks from your work

who experience symptoms, almost all of

and move around. You can

us feel an emotional heaviness these days.

even set a timer to remind

Thankfully, wellness experts can help us

you to get up every hour

cope with the day-to-day challenges by

and walk around a little.

day,

Throughout take

regular

following these tips:

STAY CONNECTED—EVEN FROM A DISTANCE. DO SOMETHING YOU ENJOY.

People are social animals and we enjoy

If you’re feeling stressed, find something

being connected to our friends and family.

you can get completely lost in doing. Look

There are lots of good ways to keep up

for an activity that you get so engrossed in

with your loved ones, even if you can’t see

that you lose track of time when you get

them in person. Catch up with friends and

started.

Psychologists call this “flow.”

family by phone, video calls or email, or

Other things that can help lower your

even send an old fashioned letter or card.

stress levels include taking a walk on

Social media can be a good way to stay in

a sunny day, learning something new,

touch, but try to ignore the negative posts.

reading a good book, spending time with

Too often, the negatives dominate our

friends (socially distanced) and enjoying

thoughts. One of the best things you can

time with your pets.

do for your mental health is to take time to appreciate the positives in your life.

MAKE WORKING FROM HOME WORK FOR YOUR DIET.

Before bed each night, try thinking of a

Take

by

for, and why you’re grateful for those

increasing the amount of fruits and

things. That simple mental exercise can

vegetables you eat daily. Try to “eat the

really give your spirits a lift.

advantage

of

being

home

few things in your life that you’re grateful

rainbow,” by eating as many different colored fruits and veggies you can. The

GET SOME SLEEP.

healthy nutrients in fruits and vegetables

Your body does a lot of physical and

are some of the things that give them their

mental repair each night as you sleep. If

colors, so the more colors you eat, the

you are not getting quality restorative

more variety of nutrients you get.

sleep on a regular basis, you are losing the opportunity for all of that repair

STAY ACTIVE.

work. It’s like not doing any preventive

Make regular exercise a part of your daily

maintenance on your car or house. There

routine by putting it on your schedule.

are several things you can do to help get

Strive for a workout early in the morning,

a better night’s sleep on a regular basis.

because as the day goes on more things can

Establish a routine—try to go to bed and

pop up and get in the way of your activity

get up about the same time every day

time. First thing in the morning can be a

(even on weekends). Do something that

great time to get the day started on the

lets your brain know that it’s time to

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

start winding down, like reading a book or drinking some warm, caffeine-free tea. Avoid caffeine and other things that wake you up (like hard exercise) within a few hours of bedtime. And lastly, make your bedroom as conducive to sleep as possible. Keep things cool and dark, and use white noise, like a fan, to mask noises like traffic.

Need help creating healthy practices like these? Dr. W. Scott Black, of Owensboro Health Lifestyle Medicine and Sports Medicine

works

with

individuals

to

replace unhealthy behaviors with positive habits so they can improve their health and quality of life. This approach works to prevent, treat and even reverse diseases affecting patients’ lives. To make an appointment, call 270-688-2110 or visit OwensboroHealth.org/Lifestyle to learn more about wellness resources available.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

READY FOR A CHANGE FROM YOUR ALL-WHITE KITCHEN? Natural woodstained cabinets are replacing or being used in combination with white cabinets. Warm finishes like burnished brass, brushed gold and rich matte black are trending in plumbing and lighting. We’ve got the latest fixtures in these new finishes on display. Stop by our showroom for a peek!

2110 Grimes Ave. Owensboro, KY 42301 270-691-6040 Lighting: winideacenterowensboro.com winsupplyofowensboro.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What is the difference between a Pre-Approval and Pre-Qualification?

A Pre-Qualification is simply the estimate of how much you can probably afford to spend on a home. A Pre-Approval is a verification of your personal and financial information, by the lender, giving you a concrete idea on what you can afford to spend on a home. Realtors prefer a buyer to have a Pre-Approval letter from their lender before they begin showing them homes.

234 Frederica St Owensboro, KY 42301 270-240-2828 Ruoff.com

Ruoff Mortgage Company, Inc., d/b/a Ruoff Home Mortgage, is an Indiana corporation. For complete licensing information visit: http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/ COMPANY/141868. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS#141868. 02/2020

At the end of the day, NiteLiters is there.

People choose to add outdoor lighting to their homes and businesses for many reasons, including: creating outdoor living spaces; accentuating specialty features; enhancing security; and increasing the value.

W H AT S H O U L D YO U LO O K F O R IN AN OUTDOOR LIGHTING DESIGN FIRM? 1. A company with verifiable experience, credentials, insurance, and a belief in continuously updating their techniques and technology.

2. A designer who listens to your desires, as well as your concerns; who utilizes a variety of high-quality fixtures and lamps, and creates a custom design for your home or business.

3. A production crew trained in low-voltage lighting systems and expert installation.

KY: 270-685-7070 IN: 812-431-7250 TN: 615-674-9950 // niteliters.com

4. A dependable service team who supports and maintains the integrity of your system.

M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

3130A COMMONWEALTH COURT OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY 42303 270.926.2060 www.martincustombuilding.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

270-683-7100 // jmjhomes.net jmj@jmjhomes.net

2601 W 4th Street Owensboro KY 42301 Gary Murphy: 270-929-6283 Jamie Murphy: 270-929-2987

TIPS:

Make sure to call 811 before you dig. Not getting underground lines marked can be a costly mistake.

When you decide you want to build, make sure you get an estimate for land clearing, site grading, and drainage.

These could all be potential pitfalls when building.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

5789 Millers Mill Rd Philpot KY 42366 270-683-3969 stevebakerbuilding.com

Have you ever wondered what’s going on in your neighborhood’s real estate market? The Riverfront Appraisals team is excited to introduce to you a new podcast we recently launched, called the Owensboro Real Estate Update! This will be a weekly podcast bringing the latest news and information about our local real estate market directly to you. Each week, appraiser Ryan Bays will be giving a brief update about the real estate activity in the Owensboro/ Daviess County market. In addition to this, from time to time, we will have a conversation with a guest from our real estate community. Together, we’ll look at a five-year history of one of many local neighborhoods in a segment called ‘Neighborhood Deep Dive’. If you’re a homeowner interested in knowing what’s going on in your neighborhood or interested in buying, selling, investing, or refinancing, or if you work in the real estate industry this podcast is for you! We want to help you make the best-informed decisions possible when it comes to your real estate

3149 Commonwealth Ct B, Owensboro, KY 42303 270-281-0260 riverfrontappraisals.com

investments.

Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

420 Triplett St.,Owensboro, KY 42303 270-684-7872 // murphysew.com

TIPS: Riccar and MD vacuums are both designed & assembled in the USA. Whether you prefer a whole-house vacuum or a lightweight portable, we have the one for you.

Murphy’s has supplied personalized, top-level, local service to the Owensboro area since 1951. Now owned and operated by the third and fourth generations, they continue to strive for the best quality in products and service.

D I D Y O U K N O W…?

Bob Vila and Tim Allen have MD central vacuum systems in their homes?

• Exceptional filtration and cleaning power.

• Lightweight and versatile • Perfect for multi-floor surfaces • Warranties up to 5 years • Local service SHOP LOCAL BUY AMERICAN

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RECIPE: COOKIES THAT SMELL AS GOOD AS THEY TASTE p. 56

WHAT WE’RE EATING NOW: CHICKEN WINGS p. 59

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: B I L L’ S R E S T A U R A N T p . 6 0

→

Photo by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

F L AVO R

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Flavor R E C I P E FRESHLY BAKED

Cookies that smell as good as they taste Article and photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

F

or years, real estate agents told us to bake a batch of cookies right before an open house to make homes seem more inviting (and smell amazing). While this sales tactic isn’t quite as popular today as it used to be (it turns out, cookies being baked makes people more distracted with sugar cravings instead of paying attention to the home itself), there is still nothing better than the smell of warm cookies filling your home. So if you aren’t planning on baking a batch of cookies to help sell your old home, try saving these recipes to christen your brand new kitchen! Your new home will smell amazing, and trust me—you won’t want to share these anyway.

Kentucky Bourbon Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

1 tsp salt

3 Tbsp KY bourbon

1/2 tsp cinnamon

2 large eggs (room temp)

1 tsp baking soda

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (plus pecan halves for decoration, if desired)

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup brown sugar (packed)

2 sticks unsalted butter

1/2 cup granulated sugar

chocolate

2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (unpacked)

2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional: pinch of finishing sea salt

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10 oz. semi-sweet chocolate or dark

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Optional step: In a large skillet, toss the chopped pecans in 2 tablespoons of butter on medium heat until lightly toasted—let cool before using in recipe.

It makes them so much more flavorful!

2. Brown 2 sticks of butter, then let it cool back to room temperature. You can put it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours—make sure the butter has resolidified and is no longer liquid. If you are not familiar with the process of browning butter, there are a lot of easy-to-follow online resources!

3. Once the butter is prepped, preheat oven to 375, and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper

4. Whisk together flour, cinnamon, and baking soda in a bowl, then set aside.

5. Beat browned butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in your stand mixer (or a large bowl with handheld mixer) using a paddle attachment for two minutes until the mixture stops crumbling and turns fluffy. Then add vanilla and bourbon and beat until combined.

6. Add one egg at a time—let the

until the flour disappears. Fold in

Espresso Meringue Cookies

chocolate and pecans.

INGREDIENTS:

7. Roll dough between your hands

2 egg whites (room temperature)

mixture fully combine before adding the next egg. Then turn off the mixer and gently fold in the flour mixture

to form a ball (fairly big—around 3 tablespoons), then place onto the prepared sheet, about two inches apart.

If desired, after the dough is rolled, add a pecan half to the top of the ball.

8. Bake cookies about 9 minutes (look

1/3 tsp salt 1/4 tsp cream of tartar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 tsp espresso powder 1 Tbsp finely grated dark chocolate

for golden edges—we are aiming for soft middles!). When they come out of the oven, you also have the option to sprinkle with some sea salt as they

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 200, and line two

cool!

large baking sheets with parchment paper

RECIPE ADAPTED FROM BAKER BY NATURE

2. Use a whisk attachment in a stand

mixer to whip egg whites with salt and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form (this could take around 10 minutes)

3. Once stiff peaks have formed, add sugar in one tablespoon at a time, letting the mixture whip back to stiff peaks in-between each. Once all the sugar has been added, wait until the peaks look glossy (making sure all the sugar is incorporated).

4. Add espresso powder and continue

whipping until combined, then gently fold in chocolate shavings.

5. Transfer mixture into pastry bags and pipe the meringue on each baking sheet. Bake for one hour, then turn off the heat, leaving the cookies in the oven as it cools down (2-3 hours or overnight).

→

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Flavor R E C I P E

Easy Lemon Cake Mix Cookies INGREDIENTS: 1 box Lemon Cake mix 2 eggs 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup powdered sugar INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat the oven to 375, and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper

2. Whisk together cake mix, oil, and eggs until

combined. Place powdered sugar in a separate bowl.

3. Roll dough between your hands to form a ball (around 2 tablespoons). If dough is too runny/sticky, place in the freezer for about 10 minutes (or longer if still sticky). You can also use shortening on your hands if this doesn't help. Roll each ball in the bowl of powdered sugar before placing on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake for 7-9 minutes (until golden around the edges).

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Flavor D I S H

What we’re eating now

Legend’s If you’re looking for tasty wings at a local spot, then look no further than Legend’s. You can’t go wrong with their traditional buffalo wings, but when it comes to variety, they have you covered. With 16 sauces and 4 dry rubs, there’s something for every wing lover. They’ll even let you order all drums, all flats or extracharred!

Mellow Mushroom Pizza and wings go together like peanut butter and jelly, so it’s no surprise that Mellow Mushroom delivers the goods when it comes to delicious buffalo wings. Their double-baked wings are so crisp you’ll swear they’re fried. Choose from hot, mild, BBQ, jerk, sweet Thai chili or naked.

Donato’s Another pizza joint with more amazing wings. Donato’s may be known for their pepperoni pies, but their buffalo wings are also a customer favorite. Try them traditional sauced or dry rubbed, boneless, or even cauliflower wings!

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Flavor R E S T A U R A N T

SPOTLIGHT

B I L L’ S R E S TA U R A N T

Untraditional Fare in a Storied Setting Written by M A R LY S M A S O N

B

ill’s Restaurant is celebrating its 10th year in business, but chef and owner Bill Hughes said

it is not only a celebration of his restaurant, but also the landmark building where the restaurant is housed. Mike Callas built Callas Sweet Shop in 1921, and the 100year celebration of the building makes it even better, according to Hughes.

The exterior of Bill’s Restaurant,

located at 420 Frederica Street, is created in Beaux Arts architecture, which helped it be placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

The interior of the building has exposed brick walls that are original, although Hughes said that because of a previous fire, the tintiled ceiling is not original.

Around the shotgun interior are

stunning black-and-white original photographs

that

Hughes

has

taken of local landmarks, nature and

scenery.

The

three-story-

building boasts art gallery space on the second floor that also is used

and then ignited.

with global offerings.

Looking

back,

Hughes

said

As the youngest in the family,

that he was always interested in

Hughes said cooking was always

cooking. Beginning at the age of 6,

part of life—and eating great meals.

he said that he figured out that by

cooking, he was able to eat what

garden,” Hughes said.

for the meals he serves and the

he wanted. And one of his culinary

After graduating from Centre

customers who dine there. With an

delights was Bananas Foster, a

College with a major in English and

ever-changing menu, Bill’s offers

dessert made with bananas, butter,

Economics, Hughes “immediately”

traditional starts but accents them

brown sugar, cinnamon and rum—

moved

to host events. More of Hughes’ photographs line the walls upstairs.

Chef Hughes said that the 56-

seat restaurant is the right size

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Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

“We killed cows and we had a

to

Charleston,

South

Carolina to attend culinary school at

Johnson & Wales University.

we decide how to fill and ice it,” he said,

He then co-owned the Primrose House

describing making a traditional Italian

restaurant before returning to Owensboro

cake but then filling it with layers of

to be the chef at the now-closed Campbell

banana-flavor and icing.

Club. After nine years as executive chef,

During the forced closing of dining

Hughes left the culinary world and

establishments during the pandemic,

became a broker for Edward Jones. This

Hughes used the time to think about

decision, he said, was made so he could

opportunities for his restaurant and

spend time with his then-two-year-old

didn’t reopen until October when there

daughter, Martha Sharp.

could be a higher capacity.

But the culinary world lured him

back in 2011, and Hughes opened Bill’s

the NBA’s 2020 season that was played in

Restaurant.

a bubble, Hughes began considering ways

His favorite item to make is seafood

to keep his patrons safe that dine there

stew—any style, including Vietnamese,

frequently. He is planning to convert the

Chinese, Korean, Indian.

restaurant into a private dining club with

membership-only privileges.

“And our bread...I love our bread,” he

“She might make the cakes and then

And during this time, while watching

said. The restaurant’s specialty—and a

customer favorite—is their Vietnamese

could be Bill’s again,” Hughes said of the

flash-fried Brussels Sprouts.

delayed opening.

The desserts are all scratch made by

Photos by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

BILL’S RESTAURANT IS CURRENTLY OPEN FOR DINNER FROM 5 TO 8 OR 9 P.M. TUESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY AND 5 TO 9 OR 10 P.M. FRIDAY AND SATURDAY. RESERVATIONS ARE ACCEPTED AND ENCOURAGED. TO MAKE A RESERVATION, CALL 270-852-8120.

“I said we wouldn’t open until Bill’s

Menus are posed on the restaurant’s

Hughes and assistant Sherry Garrity, and

Facebook page and often include featured

they often collaborate on the flavors.

wines. OL

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

Home

SWEET Home Written by

L O R A W I M S AT T

I

t would almost be worth risking a disruption to the space-time continuum to be able to travel back in time just to

invest in some prime real estate.

By the end of 2020, local Realtors had

assessed the median selling price of a home in the Owensboro region at $168,000.

A glance through a few newspapers

from the year 1921 implies that a person

A “splendid cottage” near the L&N

house, a fine barn and stable, plus plenty of

could have bought, well, pretty much all of

Depot featured six rooms, a bath, large

good stock water at all times. Not only that,

Daviess County for that amount. Or at least

stable and easy terms. Price: $6,500.

but the land promised to supply “enough

a LOT of houses and property.

Another ad promised that “$5,000

fruit for home use.” Terms were $2,000

will buy a good home within four blocks of

down and $400 next year and 34 years on

streets—near the site of the Messenger-

courthouse.”

the balance.

Inquirer—was offered for $4,500. That

included a “good garage.”

these days, a buyer today wouldn’t even

there was a farm in the Moseleyville

A six-room house at 14th and St. Ann

Another ad promised a seven-room

Given the prices of downtown property

A little further out in Daviess County,

need the house for that sale to be a bargain.

area advertised for sale. “THIS IS A BIG

bungalow, furnace heated and neatly

Areas that now are nestled pretty much

BARGAIN,” the ad said, in capital letters,

arranged on a large lot on Maple Avenue,

in the center of town offered a booming

and they weren’t kidding, especially by

noted as “the most beautiful avenue in

real estate market in January 1921. A six-

today’s standards. Of the 102 acres for

the city,” saying, “You can get it now for

room house with an acre of ground on

sale, 75 were level and mostly tilled, and

$4,750.”

Ford Avenue was offered for $3,500; a

the balance “slightly rolling,” and all were

A smaller house was offered for only

nine-room, two-story house in the Seven

promised to be “good, rich, productive

$1,500. This was a three-room house on

Hills area was advertised for $2,600; and a

land.” There were good improvements and

Henderson Road, with lights and water,

four-room house with good outbuildings

a fine orchard—all to be had for only $160

plus a stable, hen house and coal house, all

in the Hickman-Ebbert addition was on

per acre … on easy terms.

sitting on a double lot.

the market for $1,200.

Nevertheless—an

For those who wanted to escape the

Sept. 4, 1921, in the Owensboro Messenger

house with a concrete porch, lights, water

hustle-bustle of city life, one could take

announced that the real estate market here

and a large well-built stable, but it was

advantage of the misfortune of an owner

was “quiet,” saying, “There is a decided

available “for a quick sale” at $4,200. If

in ill health who was being forced to sell 36

slump in the activity of local real estate

that were to be advertised today, it would

acres of good land only 10 miles from the

market at the present time, realty men say.

be a quick sale indeed.

city. The estate featured a good four-room

Plenty of people are found who express

64

No address is given for the eight-room

Owensboro Living M A R C H / / A P R I L 2 0 2 1

article

published

a willingness to buy, but in almost every case they are looking for bargains and labor under the opinion that values are coming down in a few months and in the meantime they are holding off. They are entirely deceived, according to the well informed.”

Boy, that’s for sure.

The article went on to say: “From now on

there is going to be only a very slight decrease in the value of Owensboro property. … Only now and then, when a property owner is caught in need of ready cash and must sell, can the bargains which prospective buyers are looking for be found.”

Nobody has a crystal ball to see what real

estate prices will do in the future, and for better or for worse, there are no time machines either.

Otherwise, we’d all be going back in time to

snap up those real estate bargains of 100 years ago.

So the best we can do now is to make our

houses, however humble or grand, into our very own “home sweet home.”

For

“home,”

after

all,

is

a

priceless

investment where our precious memories last forever. OL

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