Our Region, 2018 edition by Messenger-Inquirer

OUR

REGION

Messenger-Inquirer

2018 edition

DAVIESS • HANCOCK • MCLEAN • MUHLENBERG • OHIO

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT OUR AREA'S

AGRICULTURE • ARTS • BUSINESS • EDUCATION • HEALTH • AND MORE

“When I learned I had cancer, I researched nationwide but was referred back to great care, right here.”

“My work as an engineer helped me understand the beneﬁts of technology, attention to detail and the value of innovation. So when I learned I had cancer, I researched nationwide but was referred back to great care, right here. Owensboro Health met all of my criteria and I found that innovations I had been a part of years ago worked to help make a difference in healing me today.”

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O W E N S B O R O H E A LT H . O R G / Y O U C A N • 1 - 8 7 7 - 8 8 8 - 6 6 4 7

OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

DAVIESS

COUNTY

INSIDE

DAVIESS COUNTY ARTS & FESTIVALS/2 BUSINESS/6 GOVERNMENT/7 EDUCATION/10 DOWNTOWN/12 DEVELOPMENT/14 HEALTH/16 AGRICULTURE/21 LAW ENFORCEMENT/22 TRANSPORTATION/24 PARKS & RECREATION/26 UTILITIES/28 ON THE HORIZON/29 Cover photo by AP Imagery

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

ProjectRise runners and walkers start their morning run May 17, 2017, along the riverfront in Smothers Park.

2 OUR REGION | Daviess County

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ARTS & FESTIVALS

Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum expected to be game-changer BY STEVE VIED

Hall of Fame members and bluegrass pioneers, including Ohio County native Bill Monroe, the “father of bluegrass he local arts and music.” entertainment scene — already Bowling Green native Sam Bush, a vibrant part of life in Owensthe “father of newgrass music,” will boro-Daviess County — is about to perform the first public concert in the experience something that should new theater Oct. 19. But that event has be a genuine game-changer for the already sold out the 447-seat theater. community and the region, rivaling The celebration will cap a 33-year the openings of the Executive Inn effort by Owensboro to create a major Rivermont in 1977, the RiverPark Center in 1992 and the Owensboro Convention attraction from bluegrass music. “Dreams do come true — if you Center in 2014. dream long enough,” Terry Woodward, The long-awaited and highly chairman of the museum board, said in anticipated $15.3 million Bluegrass mid-July. Music Hall of Fame & Museum — a Woodward was chairman of the old freestanding, three-story building Owensboro-Daviess County Tourist occupying an entire city block at Second Commission when that board began the and Frederica streets — is scheduled effort to make Owensboro a home for to open in October with three days of activities planned, capped off Oct. 20 by bluegrass music in 1985. When it opens, the Bluegrass Music a free “Downtown ROMP” festival with four acts on the outdoor stage of the new Hall of Fame & Museum will be the latest addition in the nearly 10-year effort facility. to revitalize downtown Owensboro. With Yonder Mountain String Band, an emphasis on “placemaking,” that mulcelebrating its 20th anniversary this timillion-dollar program has been about year, will headline the Oct. 20 festival. turning the downtown corridor into a Other acts include High Fidelity, a true destination for visitors from near traditional bluegrass band formed in and far with such amenities as Smothers 2014; Front Country, a folk, pop and progressive bluegrass band that formed Park, the blocks-long riverwalk and the convention center. in San Francisco in 2011; and Town The new museum will replace the Mountain, a 13-year-old North Carolina band, whose sound has been described already-closed and much smaller International Bluegrass Music Museum as “a bridge between traditional bluegrass, outlaw country and old-time.” at 117 Daviess St., which was open for The celebration kicks off Oct. 18 with 26 years. “The core exhibits will be on the first Legends Night in the state-of-the-art floor,” Chris Joslin, executive director Woodward Theatre. The International Bluegrass Music Association will induct of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, said in April. “We have quite five new members of its Hall of Fame a few new items, including some that posthumously — Vassar Clements, we haven’t had room to display here. ... Mike Seeger, Jake Tullock, Allen We’ll have about 14,000-square-feet of Shelton and Joe Val. display space. That’s about twice what Several current members of the we have now.” Hall of Fame are expected to perform, along with other artists paying tribute to The Hall of Fame will be on the

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second floor, along with two galleries for temporary exhibits and a room where visitors can watch video oral histories — interviews with the pioneers of bluegrass, many of whom have died since the recordings. Local officials have said for years that the bluegrass museum will help drive tourism. “We want to pull our own weight,” Joslin said. “This will be something unique to Owensboro to help drive tourism. It will appeal to a broad area.” The community’s arts and entertainment options stretch far beyond bluegrass music. The long list

includes the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra and two very active museums — the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art at Ninth and Frederica streets and the Owensboro Museum of Science and History, 122 E. Second St.

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The OSO entered a new era with the hiring of Troy Quinn as music director and conductor prior to the 2017-18 season. In June, after a season of record-breaking attendance, Quinn was given a given a three-year extension on his contract that will run through 2023.

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The $15.3 million building at Second and Frederica streets will be the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum when it opens in October.

Artist rendering submitted

“I look forward to building on the great musical experiences we have had over the past year, and I am excited about continuing to make music with this stellar orchestra and community,” Quinn said after the unanimous decision by the OSO board to extend his contract. Quinn recently announced the 2019-20 season, which will kick off at 7 p.m. Oct. 27 with “Bohemian Beethoven,” which includes a synthesis of rock group Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” and Ludwig van Beethoven’s iconic “Fifth Symphony.” The 7 p.m. Dec. 15 “A Very Holiday Pops” concert will follow, including timeless classics and holiday favorites and will feature the Owensboro Symphony Chorus. “Songs From The Stage and Screen” will be 7 p.m. Feb. 9 and include Broadway performer Linda Eder as well as favorite hits from the screen and stage. Following this concert will be the

7 p.m. March 2 “Disney In Concert” show featuring hits from “Frozen,” “Mary Poppins” and other classics for the whole family. International violinist Fabiola Kim will be featured in the 7 p.m. April 20 show “Fantasy Takes A Fiery Flight,” which will include music from the films “Rocky” and “Chariots of Fire.”

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF FINE ART

After 41 years, OMFA continues to be a landmark in the local arts community, with a constantly changing lineup of exhibits and activities that seeks to engage all ages, all in addition to its permanent collection. In those four-plus decades, the museum has established itself as a regional center for the visual arts. It is the second-largest art museum in Kentucky based on the size of its art collection and stands as an educational resource for western Kentucky.

In 2017, the museum celebrated its first four decades of educational services to the community, state and region with four special exhibitions showcasing treasures of the Permanent Collection, beginning with “Forty Years of Great Art” showcasing the collection of early Kentucky art dating from the mid to late 19th century. The museum began in 1977 as a result of the U.S. Bicentennial Project to celebrate cultural attributes in the area. A plan was put in place at that time to build a new facility for the Owensboro Museum of Science and History, and to adapt municipally-owned buildings for facilities of the arts. Trinity Episcopal Church on West Fifth Street and the fire station at 18th and Daviess streets were renovated for Theatre Workshop of Owensboro and the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, respectively. The science museum was moved from its location in the Carnegie Building, at which point the facility was

renovated and the OMFA moved in and has remained ever since. Mary Bryan Hood has been OMFA’s executive director for its entirety. An annual highlight of the museum is its popular Holiday Forest of Trees presented every November and December. The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art is open from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, and from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged — $3 adults; $2 children.

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

The Owensboro Museum of Science & History has been a part of Owensboro since 1966 and is now located downtown in a historic building. It is described as a gathering spot, learning center and family-friendly SEE MUSEUM/PAGE 9

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ARTS & FESTIVALS

Festivals abound in Daviess County BY KEITH LAWRENCE

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ntil a few years ago, Owensboro called itself “Kentucky’s Festival City.” It dropped the slogan, but there are still a lot of festivals here. ROMP Fest at Yellow Creek Park draws nearly 30,000 bluegrass fans to Daviess County each June. The International Bar-B-Q Festival brings 35,000 to 40,000 foodies from several states to downtown each Mother’s Day weekend. But there’s a lot more going on, too. Friday After 5, the popular 16-week summer festival with free music on four to five stages each Friday night, draws thousands of people each weekend during the summer. Dazzling Daylilies and Balloons Over the Garden brings crowds to the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden in Owensboro each June. PorchFest made its debut in June with musicians playing on porches along Frederica Street and Griffith Avenue on a Saturday night and fans strolling the streets, stopping to listen at each house. A Celebration of the American Spirit brings fireworks and patriotic music to the downtown riverfront each Independence Day. The East Bridge Arts Festival at the Mount features a number of regional artists each September and this year will set up shop at Maple Mount in western Daviess County for the first time. The Family Freedom Fireworks Festival, formerly on July 3 at Panther Creek Park, has moved to

Alison Krauss performs as the headliner at Yellow Creek Park during the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum’s 15th ROMP Fest. Photo by Evan Mattingly, Messenger-Inquirer

Sept. 2 to give Labor Day weekend a spark. The Multi-Cultural Festival at First Presbyterian Church each August features dancing, music, ethnic fashions and food. The Grillin ‘n Chillin BBQ Cookoff at Diamond Lake Resort brings in barbecue cooks from several states each September. The Owensboro Air Show in September brings vintage aircraft, militar y war birds and fighter jets to the skies above the Owensboro riverfront. The Reid’s Orchard Apple Festival each October brings 25,000 or more people to the orchard on Kentucky 144 for food,

Left: Laura Jackson of Owensboro looks through wooden ornaments made by “You’re Awesome Design Machine” out of Lexington, one of the many vendors on site for the 2016 East Bridge Arts Festival in downtown Owensboro. Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

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music and more each year. Boo Fest at Diamond Lake Resort offers three weekends of Halloween activities at the resort near West Louisville. The Owensboro Christmas Parade on the Saturday before Thanksgiving is billed as the first Christmas parade in Kentucky. Christmas at Panther Creek, an outdoor driving tour of the park at 5160 Wayne Bridge Road in western Daviess County, features more than 400,000 Christmas lights from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. Keith Lawrence, 270-691-7301, klawrence@messenger-inquirer.com

Keith Morris, left, and Kenny Nash of St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church, check on mutton cooking in their smoker at the 2018 International Bar-B-Q Festival. Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

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BUSINESS

Area businesses, industries see growth BY KEITH LAWRENCE

end of the year. A 63-room Best Western on Goetz Drive is about to open, and a TownePlace Suites usinesses and industries in the is under construction in Gateway region have seen a lot of good Commons. Jack Wells and Matt news in recent months. Hayden are planning a still-unnamed O.Z. Tyler Distillery joined the hotel downtown, across Second Kentucky Bourbon Trail in June and Street from the Owensboro expects to see at least 30,000 visitors Convention Center. a year. It’s also expanding production The Owensboro Board of to 100,000 barrels of bourbon a year. Education sold the old Texas Gas In February, the Kentucky Building at 3800 Frederica St. to Economic Development Finance Hayden and Wells for $3.4 million Authority gave preliminary approval last fall. They said they plan to turn to Sazerac Distillers LLC for $1 the property into The Shoppes million in incentives if the company at 3800 Frederica, a mixed-use agrees to a $21.2 million expansion development. Lots will be sold for of its Glenmore Distillery in retail and restaurants. An apartment Owensboro. complex is planned for the west side Documents filed with KEDFA of the property. say the expansion — if it happens Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com | geans@messenger-inquirer.com Swedish Match announced — would create 61 jobs with an Earl Hewlette, CEO of Terressentia Corporation and TerrePURE Kentucky Distillaverage hourly wage of $42, including ers, Inc., right, speaks as Jacob Call, master distiller at the distillery, left, and Rita plans in August 2017 for a $40.9 benefits. Kamuf Jacobs, landscape architect for the distillery, plant a bur oak tree during million expansion at its Owensboro Last year, Aleris opened a $400 smokeless tobacco plant that will a ceremony celebrating the distillery’s joining the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. million expansion at its Lewisport create 36 full-time jobs. aluminum mill, creating 100 jobs That’s on top of the $3.5 million, and ensuring the plant’s future. The 10,000-square-foot Owensboro automotive industry is switching Research & Development Center that from steel to aluminum in an effort opened in late 2016 at the 450,000BY THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER • Titan Contracting, 600 to make vehicles — especially large square-foot facility at 1121 Industrial • Specialty Food Group, 600 According to the Greater trucks and SUVS — lighter and more Drive. • Glenmore Distilleries, 415 Owensboro Economic Development fuel efficient. And the Lewisport mill The company said it is building a • Toyotetsu Mid-America, 403 Corp., these are Daviess County’s 10 will produce more than 200,000 tons 16,000-square-foot production area • R&B Foods Inc., 400 largest private employers: of aluminum a year for five to seven for ZYN, a “smokeless and spitless • Kimberly-Clark, 370 • Owensboro Health, 4,125 automobile companies. The 100 tobacco-derived nicotine pouch.” • UniFirst, 363 jobs created by the expansion will employees WhiteRock Pigments, a bring total employment at the mill to • Canteen Service Co., 315 • U.S. Bank Home Mortgage, 2,120 Cleveland-based company, between 900 and 1,000. announced plans to build a $179.6 California-based Alorica Inc. million plant on the former Alcoa an hour during the 90-day training and begin producing frames for the announced in late 2016 that it would property in Hancock County, creating period to $12 and after that, to $12.50. new Jeep trucks at its Owensboro open a customer service center in 124 jobs. Production is scheduled to Gateway Commons, the 200-acre, plant. The plant already builds frames Owensboro 2017. And, true to its start sometime in 2019. $335 million lifestyle center off for the Toyota Sequoia and engine word, it began operations in its new And UniFirst Corp. is putting the Kentucky 54, has seen several stores cradles for the Toyota Highlander downtown building at 234 Frederica final touches on an expansion at its open already this year, including and the Toyota Sienna. The Jeep line St. in July that year. The company distribution center that’s expected to Kirklands and Hobby Lobby. will add 200 robots to the frame area is still hiring people to fill the 840 create 50 jobs. Metalsa Structural Products, when production begins. jobs it expects to have here by the the Mexican frame manufacturer, Two hotels are under construction end of 2019. And last month, Alorica Keith Lawrence, 270-691-7301, started a $36.5 million expansion last this year, and a third is expected announced its plans to raise its starting pay 20 percent, from $10 fall, preparing the site to add 113 jobs to break ground around the klawrence@messenger-inquirer.com

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GOVERNMENT

City finances improve; pension costs still loom for both local governments BY AUSTIN RAMSEY

up-to-date monthly financial reports, net-profit license fees came in 15 percent, or a little more than $416,000 wo years after an unpopular set over budget in April, and income of tax hikes aimed at curbing the withholding taxes were $396,000 higher city’s deficit spending, the city of than projected. Owensboro has improved its financial Those are two of the city’s most footing and has ended this fiscal year important, yet hardest to predict, with a surplus for the first time in nearly sources of revenue. They reflect the a decade. state of the workforce and the health of A slight increase to the occupational businesses in Owensboro, because they and net profit license fees in 2016 have directly amount to a little less than 2 increased the city’s annual operating percent of yearly net wages and profits. revenue, but success at the private “It’s a sign of our local economy -- that enterprise level is having a rippling effect our local businesses or larger companies on local government, too. that own them are faring well,” said According to the city’s most Angela Hamric, the city’s director of MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Finance and Support Services. “I think that’s a good news story for the city of Owensboro at this point.” It’s good news for the government, too. The city was supposed to end this fiscal year down another $258,000 until revised surplus figures city officials announced during budget talks in June revealed a projected $613,000 surplus. Hamric said more than $800,000 in unexpected occupational tax revenue means an even rosier end-of-fiscal-year outcome. But local governments like Owensboro can’t ignore troubled waters ahead, either. If the city’s 2018-19 fiscal year budget projections are any

indication, Owensboro could be headed for another deficit spending year by fiscal year 2020-21. It’s primarily because of nearly $3 million in compounding pension contribution hikes passed by Gov. Matt Bevin’s controversial pension reform bill earlier this year. Both the city and county are facing 12 percent annual increases to the state pension system to help repair unprecedented low funding levels. As Judge-Executive Al Mattingly likes to say, it’s not local government’s fault that the pensions aren’t funded, either; SEE PENSION/PAGE 8

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Local population is trending upward BY STEVE VIED

520 residents — topping the 100,000 mark for the first time. But only 283 of those were in wensboro appears to be Owensboro. on the verge of hitting Whitesville grew by 10 60,000 in population. people to 552. Meanwhile, Daviess County Census of ficials said that has edged past 100,000. Daviess County’s population According to U.S. Census has reached 100,374. In 2016, it Bureau’s latest estimates was 99,844. Six years earlier it released in May, the city’s was 96,715. population on July 1, 2017 — a The Owensboro metropolitan little more than a year ago — area — Daviess, Hancock and was 59,404 residents, up 283 from a year earlier and up 2,139 McLean counties — had a population last year of 118,376, from 2010. the census bureau estimated. Between 1930 and 1970, The census repor t showed Owensboro’s population grew that 88 percent of city residents by 27,265 people to a total of were white, and 7 percent 50,329. were black. The next highest Since 2010, the city’s percentage was Hispanic or population has grown by only Latino, at 3.6 percent. 1,492 people, signalling slow The city had 3,807 growth. veterans between 2012 and In contrast, Bowling Green 2016. The medium value of added 1,528 people last year owner-occupied homes was and has grown by 9,000 since $106,400. 2010 to a total population of The median household 67,067, the repor t said. annual income for 2012-16 was Much of Daviess County’s growth in recent years has been $37,719 and the number of people living in pover ty was outside the city limits. Last year, the county added 20.4 percent.

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PENSION FROM PAGE 7

both the city of Owensboro and Daviess Fiscal Court have allocated 100 percent funding for as long as the history books go back. Regardless of where the blame falls, however, the city of Owensboro, for example, will face more than three-quarters of a million dollars in

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

required allocations for at least the next three years. There’s some debate as to whether that kind mandate can last, particularly when it accounts for well over 80 percent of some smaller governments’ paychecks, but until the General Assembly steps in, the increases keep coming and the budgets get tighter. Austin Ramsey, 270-691-7302, aramsey@messenger-inquirer.com, Twitter: @austinrramsey

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MUSEUM FROM PAGE 3

entertainment experience, much of it designed to appeal to children. Its offerings include a wide range of educational programming to school groups and other organizations, with programming aligned with Kentucky and Indiana’s core curriculum. Programs are designed to entertain and educate, with diversity programs, leadership institutes, student forums, and history- and science-based activities. The museum’s permanent exhibits include: • Owensboro Rotary PlayZeum: An indoor playground for ages 10 and under, featuring a colorful, themed environment based on local landscape and history, with crawl tubes and bridges, a riverboat, train, train station and tree houses. • SpeedZeum: Dedicated to

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motorsports, the gallery offers local racing history and successes from racers from Owensboro and the surrounding area. • ENCOUNTER: A science-based gallery. • The Wendell H. Ford Government Education Center: Founded by the late U.S. Sen. Wendell H. Ford, the center is dedicated to engaging citizens of all ages in the governmental process. Ford’s long career in local, state and national government is on display. • Museum store: The store has a wide variety of items available for purchase, including Kentucky handmade items, science-oriented games, books and toys and historical books and souvenirs. The museum is closed Mondays. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission to the museum is $5 per person, and children 2 years and under are admitted free. Steve Vied, 270-691-7297, svied@messenger-inquirer.com

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10 OUR REGION | Daviess County

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EDUCATION

Education opportunities abound in Daviess County BY JODI KEEN

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OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

In a time of changing needs, Owensboro Public Schools wants to stay ahead of the curve. That includes facility upgrades and adding new programs. OPS renovated Newton Parrish Elementar y School in 2017, along with Foust Elementary School and the Owensboro Middle School football field and track. The district’s current top facilities projects include the renovation of Cravens Elementary School and Owensboro Middle School South, as well as moving the Gateway Academy alternative learning school to the district’s old central office. In 2018, OPS was awarded a $631,250 two-year Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy Grant that, according to OPS chief academic officer Matthew Constant, is intended to create a literacy coach position that will work “lockstep with schools providing teachers professional learning in and around researchbased literacy models.” Amy Bellamy was named the literacy coach in July. Two major additions to Owensboro’s educational portfolio came with the 2015 opening of the Owensboro Innovation Academy and OHS’ Bluegrass Scholars Program, which wrapped up its third year. The first Kentucky high school in the New Tech Network, OIA offers project-based, hands-on learning. The program has earned numerous accolades and grants, the latest being a $42,000 grant from Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana to development a new computer-integrated manufacturing class. The Bluegrass Scholars Program personalizes the senior year of qualifying students and focuses on their college and career readiness.

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Daviess County Public Schools has been heavily involved in renovations. On June 26, the Daviess County Board of Education unanimously approved that the district formally begin

stadium projects at Apollo and Daviess County high schools for slightly more than $15 million. Apollo plans a new $9.3 million stadium, which will feature a field house and new entry building that includes restrooms and concessions. Daviess County’s Reid Stadium will undergo a $5.8 million upgrade that will remodel the existing bleachers and add more ADA-compliant seating. Both schools will received a new track and synthetic turf field. To support these plans, $5.8 million will be taken from local bonds, $5 million from DCPS’s general fund and $4.4 from the building fund. With the 2018-19 school year, DCPS is also reintegrating fifth-grade students into its elementary schools. DCPS’s plan to build a new Daviess County Middle School has been delayed for a number of factors, including the decision of where to locate the new facility. DCPS Superintendent Matt Robbins said in May that choices have been narrowed down to two sites, with an announcement expected in August. The middle school property was sold to Owensboro Grain for $1.5 million in April. In February, it was announced that DCPS will partner with Interapt for an IT pre-apprenticeship program. The school system is one of 13 Kentucky districts chosen by the state Department of Education to work with the Louisville-based technology service company, whose CEO, Ankur Gopal, is a Daviess County native. Gopal said the initiative will help students better understand the pathway to an education and career in the fields of software and informational technology.

OWENSBORO CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

The Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Owensboro continue to grow and improve. OCS has undergone several recent leadership changes. Sara Guth, assistant principal and academic dean at Owensboro Catholic Middle School, is OCMS’

new principal. James “Jim” Tinius has been become the new principal for the system’s K-3 campus. Ann Flaherty was chosen to be superintendent for Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Owensboro in 2017, and Tom Lilly was named OCS president in June. The district purchased 250 Chromebooks for use starting with the 2017-18 school year. The district also purchased new laptops for teachers. In 2017, Cathedral Preschool was recognized as a Five STAR school by the state, and enrollment at St. Mary of the Woods School surpassed 200. In an August 2017 interview, Flaherty said she wants to maintain the quality of the Diocese’s schools and their subsequent successes. With high ACT and MAP scores, “we want to continue that, and continue to set even higher expectations in those areas,” she said.

BRESCIA UNIVERSITY

Brescia University is undergoing a significant expansion. The four-year private university has outlined its Gateway to Our Second Century campaign. Phase 1 saw the newly christened Moore Center (named for Brescia alumnus Joe Moore) reopen after a $6.5 million overhaul that included a remodeled cafeteria; open-concept living area on the first floor; snack bar; spirit shop; athletics hall of fame; gymnasium expansion; learning studio; health and wellness center; expanded walking track; updated office space; auditorium; enrollment center; and updated classrooms and computer laboratories. Phase 2 involves the completion of the school’s new C.E. Field Center for Professional Studies, named in honor of the legacy of Field Packing Company founder Charles Eldred Field. This facil-

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OUR REGION | Daviess County ity will house the Charles Albert Reid School of Business; the School of Education; the William H. Thompson Center for Business Graduate Studies; a 150seat auditorium named for Roy and Victoria Duffy Roberts; an art gallery; seminar rooms; computer labs; digital studio; a small chapel area; and the Marilyn Younger-Conley School of Social Work. Brescia’s online social work program has received national accolades. Since it was accredited in 2009, the program’s enrollment “grew over 800 percent because that was such a unique need,” Tracy Naylor, vice president for institutional advancement at Brescia, said. “Students just flocked to the program because it was the only one.”

study pre-pharmacy for three years at KWC and then transfer to UK to finish their doctor of pharmacy degree. Graduates will earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from KWC. Other KWC partnerships include with the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta; WKU’s Gordon Ford College of Business; and UK’s College of Medicine. Praise for KWC has continued to roll in. The school tied for eighth on U.S. News & World Report’s list of top regional colleges of the south, a five-spot jump from 2016’s ranking. The school also placed on the Great Schools, Great Prices Regional Colleges in the South list, ranking third. And Washington Monthly’s annual 2017 KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE College Guide ranked KWC No. 28 in Kentucky Wesleyan College is its “Top 150 Baccalaureate Colleges” opening its arms and expanding list. opportunities for its students to learn outside of the campus’ borders. OWENSBORO COMMUNITY In March, KWC announced a part& TECHNICAL COLLEGE nership with the University of KenOwensboro Community & tucky College of Pharmacy. The accel- Technical College has seen a erated program will allow students to boom of growth and recognition in

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018 the past few years. In March, the school unveiled its $12 million, 46,000-square-foot Industry Innovation Center, heralded as a facility to expand opportunities for students seeking education in welding, HVAC, robotics and industrial and electrical maintenance programs. Its existence required cooperation at local and state levels — the state aided with $9 million, while OCTC raised $3 million locally. The school received a $96,120 grant from the Dart Foundation in Mason, Michigan, which helped purchase two educational robots for the center. OCTC also prides itself on the success of its programs. For 10 of the last 11 years, radiography students have earned a 100 percent first-time pass rate on their national professional license exams, while also retaining a 100 percent job placement rate for the past 15 years. OCTC’s surgical technology program has also scored a perfect pass rate on its exams for the last five years, as well as having had a 97 per-

cent hire rate the last seven years. OCTC has established several partnerships with the community and local school districts. Its Discover College and Early College programs, allowing area students to attend OCTC classes and earn college credit while still in high school, have nearly doubled their enrollment each year since 2014. As an example, Early College began in 2014 with four students. Two years later, 51 had joined, and in 2018, 96 students from Apollo High School, Daviess County High School, Hancock County High School, McLean County High School, Ohio County High School and Owensboro High School, as well as some homeschooled students, were participating. OCTC has also par tnered with Daviess County Public Schools, Owensboro Public Schools, Owensboro Catholic Schools and Hancock County Schools for Community Campus, a program that enrolls incoming freshmen in the Engineering Academy and Life Science Academy, as well as allows them to earn college credit.

12 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

DOWNTOWN

Downtown dining, shopping, events continue to evolve

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owntown Owensboro today is hardly recognizable to anyone who hasn’t been here in a decade or more. A couple of years ago, Scott Polikov, president of Gateway Planning in Dallas, was back in town, taking a look at some of the things he had envisioned in 2008. He stood outside the ballroom on the third floor of the Owensboro Convention Center, looking east along Veterans Boulevard with a big grin on his face. Work was progressing on the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum and The Enclave condo/restaurant complex. People were strolling in the $68 million Smothers Park. “It’s amazing,” Polikov said. His company designed the master plan for Owensboro’s downtown redevelopment 10 years ago. What began as an $80 million project turned out to include more than $300 million in private and public investments. The plans Polikov drew up called for the new convention center. The new hotels on either side of it -- and a third one planned for the other side of Second Street — were part of the private investment he expected. Polikov said the downtown

makeover worked because of $40 million in federal assistance, more than $100 million in city and county money and especially because of the local private investment. The growing number of residential projects downtown and the “hang-out factor” — people who come downtown to hang out — are proof that the master plan is working, he said. Today’s work force demands a fun environment, Polikov said. And Owensboro’s downtown is creating that. “Often, the public sector supports things, but the private sector doesn’t buy in,” Polikov said. “But in Owensboro, they did.” The former BB&T Building was stripped to the girders and reborn as the Alorica Building. Boardwalk Pipeline Partners has a new building where a car lot used to be. Jagoe Homes is planning a condo complex on Veterans Boulevard where the American Legion used to be. A small shopping center is planned in front of the Holiday Inn. And another condo project is planned where a tennis center once stood. Owensboro’s downtown is continuing to evolve with new buildings and major renovations of others.

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Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Community leaders await the opening news conference Thursday, July 20, 2017, outside Alorica at 234 Frederica St.

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14 OUR REGION | Daviess County DEVELOPMENT

Kentucky 54 becoming major commercial district BY KEITH LAWRENCE

54 from the bypass to ThrustonDermont Road, roughly two miles east. It was completed in 1988. oday, Kentucky 54 is rapidly Then, subdivisions began becoming Owensboro’s sprouting like wildflowers. And primar y shopping and at first, residents didn’t want dining district. commercial development. Roughly 6,000 more vehicles a In 1997, residents of Thorobred day travel the section of East went to court Kentucky 54 just east of Roughly 6,000 to prevent Burger U.S. 60 than travel the King from building more vehicles section of U.S. 431 near a restaurant near a day travel Towne Square Mall. the entrance to that But until recent years, the section of subdivision, citing what was then called Kentucky 54 just concerns about traffic. Leitchfield Road was A year later, east of U.S. 60 mostly a two-lane rural Independence Bank than travel the had to fight to win highway. section of U.S. Commercial approval for a 12-acre 431 near Towne development on the development of Kentucky 54 really southwest corner Square Mall. began in 1981 with Villa of Kentucky 54 and Point Shopping Center. Fair view Drive, which included a A Shell station, which was torn branch of that bank. down a few years ago, was built But the 21st centur y has seen a in 1981, followed by Sir Beef and big change. Wyndall’s Foodland in 1982. There were 14 subdivisions, A year later, local officials most of them mid- to announced plans to build a new upper-income, along Kentucky five-lane highway, extending 54 by 2003, when Matt Hayden Parrish Avenue from Chautauqua announced plans to build Park to what was then the bypass Woodlands Plaza, a 32.6-acre and then five-laning Kentucky shopping center. MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Cheri Taylor of Tell City, Indiana, shops for some of her Christmas presents Dec. 8, 2017, at Tuesday Morning in Towne Square North. Tuesday Morning was one of the first stores to relocate to Gateway Commons, the 200-acre, $335 million lifestyle center on U.S. 60 between Kentucky 54 and Pleasant Valley Road. Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

OUR REGION | Daviess County

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Hobby Lobby employee Shelby Marshall, left, assembles a vintage clock as coworker Rebecca Payne stocks shelves Feb. 13 in the seasonal section of the new 55,000-square-foot store in Gateway Commons. The new store opened Feb. 19. Two years later, Walmar t said Hayden expects the various it would build its largest businesses to employ from supercenter in 2,000 to 2,500 people. Demographics for ZIP Kentucky across In a few years, he from Villa Point. believes the traf fic codes show median And income of $34,733 in count on Kentucky Hayden introduced 54 will top 40,000 42301 (Owensboro’s plans to build vehicles a day — west side), $36,098 in and 20,000 of them Highland Pointe, a 76-acre development 42303 (Owensboro’s will visit Gateway along the southern east side) and $53,054 Commons. border of U.S. 60 at Demographics in 42366 (Philpot, Kentucky 54. for ZIP codes show which includes several median income of Now, Hayden of the Kentucky 54 is busy building $34,733 in 42301 Gateway Commons, (Owensboro’s west subdivisions). which will stretch side), $36,098 in from behind Walmar t to the 42303 (Owensboro’s east side) Pleasant Valley Road exit on U.S. and $53,054 in 42366 (Philpot, 60. which includes several of the That project will take another Kentucky 54 subdivisions). 20 years to fully develop, Hayden predicted a few years ago. Keith Lawrence, 270-691-7301, When it’s fully developed, klawrence@messenger-inquirer.com

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

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16 OUR REGION | Daviess County HEALTH

Hollison ‘pioneering an industry’ BY RENEE BEASLEY JONES

nants than the food industry’s method of testing small, random samples. From its original concept, Holliollison LLC started life as a high-tech food safety company son has grown into a three-pronged business. Today, the company in 2005. Its technology can detect salmo- includes Next Level Probiotics and nella and E. coli from the air that Hollison Engineering. surrounds food — a far more reliSEE HOLLISON/PAGE 20 able way to find evidence of contami-

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Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

CEO Kevin Humphrey watches a robotic arm pick up a metal nut in the Precision Engineering division Feb. 21 at Hollison LLC. Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

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Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

HEALTH

Owensboro Health celebrates five years of growth BY RENEE BEASLEY JONES MESSENGER-INQUIRER

arlier this year, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital celebrated its fifth year of operation. Besides opening a $500 million facility on Pleasant Valley Road, the health system also built and opened three healthplexes — in Powderly, Henderson and Madisonville — that cost $22 million each. In addition, OH agreed to operate Muhlenberg Community Hospital, which now has Owensboro Health as part of its name. OH’s number of employees grew by nearly 850 in the past five years. With a staff of more than 4,200, the health system now ranks as the largest employer west of Louisville. SEE GROWTH/PAGE 20 Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Above: Debbie Payne and Casey Quisenberry, both medi-

cal lab technicians at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, work at the command center in the laboratory at the hospital Sept. 12, 2017. Left: Owensboro Health Regional Hospital employees

present a check for $13,526 to the HELP Office. The money was raised by selling T-shirts that employees were able to wear on Fridays during the 2017 holidays. These funds would allow the HELP Office to provide perishable items such as milk, butter and meat throughout the year. It also would be used to prevent evictions and to pay utility bills for those in need in Daviess County. This was a part of the Owensboro Health Gives Holiday Food Drive, where employees donated food that was to provide approximately 45 percent of all of the food the HELP Office planned to distribute throughout 2018. Photo submitted

18 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

HEALTH

Food insecurity remains issue for region BY RENEE BEASLEY JONES

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

cross all age groups, food insecurity remains an issue in Kentucky. One in six residents struggles to keep adequate supplies of food. And a national study ranked Kentucky sixth highest in the U.S. for hunger among the elderly. Tamara Sandberg, executive director of the Kentucky Association of Food Banks, said the high rate of hunger among the state’s elderly residents should not be tolerated. “Together, we must do more to address senior hunger and help ensure that the golden years are truly golden for Kentucky’s seniors,” she said in an earlier inter view. Daviess County and the surrounding area are not immune to problems with food insecurity. Most people never consider hunger on college campuses, but it exists. Owensboro Community & Technical College started a campus food pantr y in 2016. “We have several homeless students and those who couch surf,” said Becky Hodskins, OCTC’s director of TRiO Student Support Ser vices. The food pantr y provides snacks during the day and canned items for meals at night. To make sure young children receive proper nutrition when school is out of session, most local school districts feed thousands of free meals to children 18 and younger each summer. Many programs now offer meals at mobile sites such as parks and swimming pools.

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Volunteer Rachel Whittaker, right, and Teri Fleischmann of AmeriCorps, left, prepare individual meals to be frozen for the Meals on Wheels program Jan. 8 at the Munday Activity Center. The food from Morrison Healthcare Food Services at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is picked up three times a week and split up into individual meals that are frozen and delivered on Fridays to area seniors in most need for weekend meals. “Clients are loving them,” said Heather McGarvey, aging coordinator at the Munday Activity Center. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital has teamed up with the Munday Activity Center to provide weekend meals to hungr y seniors who qualify for the Meals on Wheels program. Dana Peveler, director of the Munday Activity Center, said a waiting list exists for Meals on Wheels. Volunteers who deliver the food know seniors who divide their weekday meals so they have something to eat on weekends

when the ser vice isn’t available. The hospital’s food ser vice department offered cooked leftovers from its kitchen for the senior program. The Munday Activity Center packages and freezes the meals, which are delivered to seniors during the week for use during weekends. Dianne Morris, director of Working Hands in Owensboro, has managed an Owensboro food

pantr y for five years. She has seen an increase in the number of elderly residents seeking assistance. The cost of medicine, utilities and food have climbed at a faster pace than retirement incomes, Morris said. And many elderly residents are raising their grandchildren and great-grandchildren — an expense they never planned for in retirement. Tri-State Food Bank in

OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Becky Hodskins, director of TRiO Student Support Services, talks about the food pantry that is set up in the Learning Resource Center at Owensboro Community & Technical College that helps meet the needs of OCTC students who suffer from food insecurity.

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Dianne Morris, founder and director of Working Hands, stands among the clothing and food items at the local food charity and assistance organization Nov. 21, 2017, in Owensboro. Evansville provides supplies to area food pantries. This year, the regional food bank started mobile pantries in declared food deserts in Daviess and McLean counties, thanks to an Owensboro Health grant. “Our intention was to provide access to food and fresh produce to those residing in areas with limited access,” said Debbie Zuerner Johnson, director of community engagement at OH. “... I am so pleased with the

investment that was made with Tri-State Food Bank.” At the first mobile pantr y in Calhoun in Januar y, the food bank provided 86 households with food. In Sacramento, 25 households used the mobile site. “It is simply so important for all of us to work together to address social determinants of health, such as food security,” she said. Renee Beasley Jones, 270-228-2835, rbeasleyjones@messenger-inquirer.com

20 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

GROWTH FROM PAGE 17

In today’s health care environment, it’s grow or be gobbled by some larger system, said Greg Strahan, OH president and CEO. “We’re seeing a huge consolidation of health care systems across the nation.” By next summer, it is estimated the number of independent hospitals in Kentucky may fall to five or seven. OH will own two of them. “In health care, you have to grow,” Strahan said. From a regional economic development standpoint, OH plays an impor tant role, said Sharla Wells, Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp.’s interim president and CEO. “Quality health care is obviously a key draw for prospective residents and companies,” Wells said. “Just as the quality of education, workforce and location matter, health care also ranks as a top consideration when someone chooses to relocate their business or family.” OH offers good pay and benefits, Daviess County Judge-Executive Al Mattingly said. Mattingly said he appreciates the health system’s involvement in the community. Besides

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro Health president and CEO Greg Strahan speaks July 19, 2017, during a press conference announcing that Owensboro Health is now one of six research sites in the UK Markey Cancer Center Research Network and is the first site in western Kentucky.

Owensboro Health Regional Hospital

providing grants to regional programs that promote health and well-being, OH donated $120 million in charity care last fiscal year, including the system’s Medicaid shor tfall.

Owensboro Health Regional Hospital 1201 Pleasant Valley Road Owensboro, KY 42303 270-417-2000 www.owensborohealth.org

HOLLISON FROM PAGE 16

Earlier in 2018, the probiotics division expected to market its new product called PROTECT for pets this year on Amazon.com. A similar Hollison product for humans is in the offing. Hollison ships probiotics to customers in five or six other countries.

“It’s nice to have a regional hospital that can af ford to do that for our community,” Mattingly said. Renee Beasley Jones, 270-228-2835, rbeasleyjones@messenger-inquirer.com

The company’s engineering division works with five or six local companies in robotics, plastics and production equipment. Hollison now employs 25 people and recently won the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s first Innovator of the Year award. “We’re pioneering an industry,” Hollison CEO Kevin Humphrey said. He and his brother, David, opened Agri-Tech in Livermore in 1996, specializing in grain-handling equipment, poultry house construction, electrical work and steel building construction.

When that business closed in 2005, Humphrey started working on Hollison. “We see rapid growth in probiotics and steady growth in our food safety business,” Humphrey said. Hollison plans to build a 30,000-square-foot headquarters and warehouse at Southtown Boulevard and Carter Road. It will be about a year before ground is broken at the new site. Renee Beasley Jones, 270-228-2835, rbeasleyjones@messenger-inquirer.com

OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

AGRICULTURE

Agriculture big economic driver in county BY STEVE VIED

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

griculture is big business in Daviess County. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics, Daviess County farmers planted just shy of 60,000 acres of corn and harvested 11.3 million bushels in 2017. That works out to about $44 million. Also last year, Daviess County farmers planted a little more than 89,000 acres of soybeans and harvested 5.4 million bushels. At just under $10 a bushel, that amounts to about $54 million in revenue. Daviess County, according to the USDA, had 837 farms in 2012, with 237,234 acres devoted to farming operations. The size of the average farm was 283 acres, which was up 11 percent from five years earlier. At that time, the market value of agriculture products sold was $176,406,000 a year, which was a 50 percent increase in five years. Average sales per farm was $210,760 a year, a jump of 81 percent compared to five years earlier. Forty-four farms had annual sales of $100,000 to $249,000; 38 had sales of $250,000 to $499,000 and 73 farms had sales of $500,000 or more. By size, there were more than 300 farms in the 10-to-49-acre category and nearly 300 in the 50-to-179-acre range. But there were also about 100 farms of 179-499 acres and about 50 farms of 500-999 acres. Interestingly, there were about 75 farms of 1,000 acres or more. More than 80 percent of all farmland in the county was devoted to crops, with the rest used for pasture, woodland and more. Livestock is another big contributor to the local agriculture economy. Seven months ago, the cattle count in Daviess County was 13,000 head, and 8,000 were beef cattle. With the giant Perdue Farms chicken processing nearby in Ohio County, not surprisingly, raising chickens plays a large role in Daviess County agriculture.

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Nick Stephen of Stephen Farms harvests corn with a John Deere S680 combine on Kuegel Farms land off Wayne Bridge Road in western Daviess County in October 2017. In 2012, the latest information available, the USDA estimated that more than 2 million broilers and other meat-type chickens were raised in the county, making it No. 8 in the state for chicken production. Hogs and pigs contribute substantially to the agriculture economy. A single operation — Jerry O’Bryan’s hog farm near St. Joseph in western Daviess County — produces more than 200,000 market hogs every year, helping make Daviess the No. 1 hog producing county in Kentucky. In 2016, more than 850 people in the county worked in direct agriculture jobs, or in agriculture-related occupations, earning an average of $34,000 a year. Large production agriculture has long dominated the farming scene in Daviess County, with farms of several hundred up to several thousand acres. But smaller scale farming is also present. In fact, about 35 farmers regularly sell produce, meat and a host of other items at the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market, which features a modern, covered facility at Triplett Street and East Parrish Avenue on Tuesday,

Thursday and Saturday mornings during the spring, summer and fall. Owensboro Grain, with facilities downtown and on the city’s west side, is the largest family-owned soybean-crushing facility in the country. The key to Daviess County’s success in agriculture is the farmers themselves, said Jeff Coke, president of Daviess County Farm Bureau. “When I travel, I tell people we have some of the top farmers in the United States,” Coke said. “We’ve got the No. 1 industry in our county. The state of agriculture overall is good. Tariffs are scaring farmers, but it will be good in the long run if we can have free trade.” Coke said Daviess County’s agriculture diversity is strong — from small and larger-scale vegetable producers all the way to giant row crop farms of 5,000 to 10,000 acres. “Prices are at or below the cost of production right now, but our farmers are really positive,” Coke said. “They find a way to figure things out.” Steve Vied, 270-691-7297, svied@messenger-inquirer.com

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com

Charlie Lohman, left, weeds a row of burley tobacco with friend John Sampley, right, on Sampley’s farm on West Fifth Street Road on July 13 in Daviess County. The duo was working with friends Fred Sikes and Charlie Stacks, not pictured, to weed about 7 acres of tobacco on the farm, a job they had been at for about three weeks.

22 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

LAW ENFORCEMENT

OPD, sheriff ’s department have seen many changes BY JAMES MAYSE

after every call to fill out stacks of paperwork. With computers in patrol cars, officers can complete wensboro Police Department forms and even print out warrants. Chief Art Ealum joined the “That keeps them out in the department in 1991 as a field,” Ealum said. “That helps them patrol officer and worked his way maintain sector integrity.” up through the ranks. Ealum said a Over the last 25 years, officer lot has changed in law enforcement training has become more rigorous, over his 27 years of service. “Technology is a big one,” Ealum statewide professional standards said. “Officers have mobile offices at have been implemented and the duties that officers are expected to their fingertips” in their patrol cars. handle have increased. OPD and the Daviess County Training at the state police Sheriff’s Departments are academy in Richmond is twice full-service law enforcement as long now as it was in 1991, agencies, providing 24-hour patrol and the state has adopted Police coverage, and large detective Officer Professional Standards that divisions, to the city and county. place an emphasis on skills and The Kentucky State Police post in professionalism. Henderson also assigns troopers to “While we did attend the Daviess County, answering calls for service and assisting other agencies. academy, it was only for 10 weeks, and it wasn’t mandatory for sheriff’s “Over the course of 24 years, departments,” Smith said. technology has changed a lot,” Ealum said his class was one said Major Barry Smith, chief of the first to attend the academy deputy of the sheriff’s department. for even 10 weeks. Before then, “We no longer do paper citations, accident reports or incident reports. academy training was just eight weeks. Everything is done electronically. Today, the academy is 20 weeks “When I started in 1995, you long. Ealum said OPD officers are didn’t have computers in your car also required to either have 60 at all,” Smith. “Now, you don’t think credit hours of college, prior law of going on patrol without an MDT enforcement experience or at least (mobile data terminal).” three years of military experience. Before MDTs, officers would “There are people who will argue have to return to their station

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tooth and nail that officers don’t than other departments across the need an education,” Ealum said. country. But educated officers are better at Changes to the state’s pension working with people of system, coupled with diverse backgrounds, the well-publicized which is important in dangers and stresses of law enforcement, he the job, have affected said. the ability of Kentucky In the culture of law enforcement OPD, “people desire agencies to hire and to have an education,” retain officers. Ealum said. Hiring generally Advanced education isn’t a problem for the is expected of officers sheriff’s department, who are promoted, and which usually has a many OPD officers number of applications have received master’s on file, often from degrees and have officers from other attended training agencies. Owensboro CHIEF ART EALUM programs such as the city commissioners OWENSBORO POLICE FBI’s law enforcement recently approved DEPARTMENT academy. structured bonuses to Technology and retain officers during training are beneficial in the first 15 years of preparing and equipping their careers. officers, which is good, Although there are because both the fewer applicants for sheriff’s department and careers with OPD than OPD have seen their there were in the past, calls increase steadily Ealum said the agency over the years. hasn’t compromised its “Calls for service standards. have increased, as has “We will never the population of the put people out in county,” Smith said. this profession who “That continues to vex shouldn’t be wearing the department.” a uniform or a badge,” MAJOR BARRY SMITH Despite the high call Ealum said. “... When DAVIESS COUNTY volume, both OPD and (applicants) make it SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT the sheriff’s department through our gauntlet have crime “clearance” rates higher (of new officer requirements), than the national average, meaning they can feel they’ve accomplished the departments close more cases something.”

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222 E. Ninth St., Owensboro, KY 42303 270-687-8888 https://police.owensboro.org/

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Daviess County Sheriff Department’s Detective Brad Youngman, front left, Detective Jared Ramsey, middle, and Deputy Matt Ralph, right, lead Daviess County Fire Department’s Andrew Wilson, back left, and Assistant Fire Chief Eric Coleman, back right, down a hallway March 6 during a training exercise at the Dean Allen Youngman National Guard Armory. DCSD is training a new approach to active shooter situations with a goal of getting paramedics into shooting scenes faster. Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

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Owensboro’s Best in French Fries and Ice Cream! Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro Police Officer Aaron Contratto, right, and Scott Norris, left, load hams into a trailer Dec. 20, 2017, during the OPD’s annual Operation Santa food basket packing and delivering project.

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24 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

TRANSPORTATION

Natcher upgrades, I-67 idea encourage local leaders BY AUSTIN RAMSEY

separated into phases, the first of which is ongoing between the U.S. pgrades have already begun 60 overpass and the Hartford exit at to turn the William H. Kentucky 69 at a price tag of about Natcher Parkway, which $28 million. connects Owensboro to Bowling Other future upgrades Green, into Kentucky’s next include rebuilding four interchanges interstate spur. between Owensboro and Bowling The former toll road is the Green, including changing the region’s best chance at connecting Hartford exit to a cloverleaf. Those to the nation’s broader interstate projects will proceed when they highway system and may better its are funded. Once the project is far chances at earning a spot on the map enough along, the state will petition of a larger interstate construction federal highway officials to designate process in its infancy. the parkway an official I-65 spur. Kentucky Transportation “You keep doing the work until Cabinet crews began the process you get to the point where you of converting the Natcher into can to go the Federal Highway an I-65 spur dubbed I-165 in July. Administration,” KYTC spokesman The massive, nearly $70 million Keith Todd said. construction project has been Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson

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Please help us celebrate our 60 years by joining us on Saturday, September 22nd from 1-3pm for our 60th Anniversary Open House!

and Daviess County Judge-Executive Al Mattingly have lauded the Natcher project as a key to the area’s future economic prosperity. As it is, the city and county are visibly detached from interstates in all cardinal directions. And, after all, Watson said, interstates are important in promoting industrial development. But a spur, or branch, of the larger interstate highway system may “not be enough,” Watson has said. It’s why he, Mattingly and many others around Owensboro have campaigned at the local, state and national levels to ensure Owensboro remains in the running for an entirely new interstate designation called I-67, from Washington,

Indiana, (through Jasper and Huntingburg along U.S. 231) to the William H. Natcher Bridge in Maceo. There, the route would continue along the U.S. 60 bypass extension until it reaches the Natcher Parkway. According to officials with the I-67 Development Corp. in Indiana, a new law there has given leaders at the county and municipal levels the power they need to jumpstart the process. Some say it may be enough to bring back to life the I-67 dream. Indiana Senate Bill 128, which was signed into law a little more than a year ago, allows local Indiana governments to use regional development authorities to qualify for federal infrastructure project funding outside the state’s normal

OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

purview. Dubois and Spencer counties in Indiana, along with the cities of Huntingburg and Jasper, began forming their own RDA in late April for the purpose of financing a highway construction feasibility study. “The counties and cities are partnering to pay half of that study, or $3.5 million, while the other half will come from the private sector -- businesses and corporations who have a vested interest in seeing an interstate in southern Indiana,” said attorney Bill Kaiser, who represents the I-67 Development Corp. “This area cannot be an island, and ensuring that can’t be done alone. We view our relationship with Owensboro as extremely important with ongoing negotiations.” There’s no guarantee yet, but local leaders along the route hope that the ongoing Natcher upgrades, along with the chance of an entirely new interstate altogether, will help solidify the county’s rank in future Kentucky growth.

Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin, center, speaks with Kentucky Rep. Brett Guthrie, left, and Thomas L. Nelson, Division Administrator, U. S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, Kentucky Division, right, during an unveiling of signage designating the Natcher Parkway as a future Interstate 65 spur connector. The announcement was made Aug. 26, 2016, from the Owensboro Riverport Authority.

Austin Ramsey, 270-691-7302, aramsey@ messenger-inquirer.com, Twitter: @austinrramsey

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

920 E 4th St., Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 684-3283 www.welbornfloralco.com

26 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

PARKS & RECREATION

Smothers, parks continue to shine BY STEVE VIED

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ater this month, Smothers Park — the heart of Owensboro’s revitalized downtown riverfront corridor and the premier park in the region — turns 6 years old. And based on its continuing drawing power and the enormous development springing up around it, the park is as popular as ever. When it opened in late August 2012, Smothers Park was an instant hit. Built at a cost of $68 million over a period of more than three years beginning in 2009, Smothers Park attracts thousands of people to its picturesque fountains, inlet waterfall, riverwalk swings and overlooks, and Col. Charles E. Shelton Freedom Memorial. But the single feature that has brought the most accolades, not to mention swarms of children, is the award-winning Lazy Dayz Children’s Playground, voted the No. 1 playground in the world a few years ago by an international website that specializes in landscape architecture. As it was designed to do, Smothers Park, which overlooks the majestic Ohio River, is an economic engine for the downtown “placemaking” initiative, a bold-stroke program that city and county leaders launched in 2009. Since then, the $20 million Hampton Inn & Suites Owensboro Downtown/ Waterfront; the $38 million Owensboro Convention Center (construction costs alone); the $15 million Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront; the $9.5 million The Enclave at Riverfront Living, a four-story restaurant/condo complex at 101 Frederica St. now under construction; and the nearly complete $15.3 million Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, all are in close proximity to Smothers Park. More new development and redevelopment has occurred on Second Street and on nearby connector streets as restaurants, shops

Crowds gather along Veterans Boulevard at Smothers Park in downtown Owensboro during Riverfront Grand Opening events on Aug. 25, 2012.

and other establishments have all opened since the park was finished, and more is planned. Former Owensboro City Manager Bill Parrish oversaw the development of Smothers Park for the entirety of the construction process. Upon its fifth anniversary, Parrish praised the park for fulfilling its intended purpose. “Clearly the park has generated local excitement and pride for our citizens,” Parrish said. “More than that, however, has been the synergy of park-convention center-McConnell Plaza (immediately west of Smothers Park) and downtown itself as an economic draw for the region and as a way to keep entertainment dollars here in Owensboro.” Smothers Park has established itself as a destination for people of all

OWENSBORO PARKS

David C. Adkisson Greenbelt Park Cap Gardner Park, 238 E. 20th St Chautauqua Park, 1201 Bluff Ave. Dugan Best Park, 1003 Omega St. English Park, 2 Woodford Ave. Heartland Park, 1997 E. Byers Ave. Jack C. Fisher Park, 3900 W. Fifth St. Road Kendall-Perkins Park, 1201 W. Fifth St. Legion Park, 3047 Legion Park Drive Max Rhoads Park, Seventh and Walnut streets Moreland Park, 1215 Hickmon Ave.

Old Germantown Park, 824 Crittenden St. Smothers Park, downtown riverfront on Veterans Boulevard Thompson Berry Park, 1 Carter Road Waymond Morris Park, 5200 Todd Bridge Road Yewell Heritage Park, 3690 Haywood Court, Brookhill subdivision York Park, 2201 York Drive Edge Ice Center, 1400 Hickmon Ave. Travis Aubrey Skate Park, 1301 Bluff Ave.

DAVIESS COUNTY PARKS Horse Fork Creek Park, 3005 Fairview Drive Yellow Creek Park, 5170 Kentucky 144

Panther Creek Park, 5160 Wayne Bridge Road

OUR REGION | Daviess County ages. Children flock to the Lazy Dayz playground’s elevated walkways, tree forts and seemingly endless collection of climbing apparatus, while teenagers and adults take in the fountains, waterfall feature and a riverwalk that stretches from the RiverPark Center to McConnell Plaza, a distance of five blocks. Friday After 5, the summer series of free weekly concerts, is two decades old, but since Smothers Park opened, the event has grown from a single venue to a blocks-long party with multiple venues that often fill downtown. Smothers Park is four blocks long and 3.2 acres in size (more than three times the size of the former Smothers Park it replaced). The Shelton Memorial is on its east end, a short distance from the RiverPark Center, and the park features a “promenade” riverwalk along the outer edge of the river wall, with bench swings positioned every few yards. The playground takes up an entire block between St. Ann and Allen streets. Smothers Park is but one of many parks in Owensboro and Daviess County. Yellow Creek Park and Panther Creek Park are big county parks run by Daviess Fiscal Court, and the newest addition to the county

parks system is Horse Fork Creek Park on the east side near the rapidly expanding Kentucky 54 corridor. Horse Fork Creek Park will soon add a spray park that county leaders believe will be a strong attraction. Recently, Daviess Fiscal Court began looking at options to complete the spray park project. When it is finished, it will join Panther Creek and Yellow Creek as county parks with spray parks. The city of Owensboro operates spray parks at Smothers, Legion and Kendall-Perkins parks. A contractor has been selected to construct the concrete pad for the attraction and officials are hopeful to finish it later this summer, perhaps by Labor Day. Plans call for a 3,750-square-foot spray park at Fairview Drive park, which will make it the county’s largest. Meanwhile, another important enhancement for the community’s park system is in the works. Last spring, state officials gave the city permission to move forward with an extension of the David C. Adkisson Greenbelt trail on the city’s east side. City engineers had been awaiting the state’s approval to use portions of the old U.S. 60 bypass between the Unilever manufacturing

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

facility and the Regional Water Resource Agency’s David W. Hawes Wastewater Treatment Plant and property along the existing bypass to the south. As it is, the mile-long east leg of the city’s multi-use path abruptly stops north of Heartland Park near the Kentucky 54 corridor. The project was made possible by the U.S. 60 extension, which left several vacant lanes between the new expressway and Owensboro’s Second Street. The former westbound lanes of the highway will then become a new local street. With the opening of the U.S. 60 extension, the half-mile section of the old bypass from the traffic signal at Kentucky 603 to the new U.S. 60 was transferred to the city. The two lanes on the west side will be converted to a two-way city street, and the two lanes on the east side will eventually become the newest section of the Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer Greenbelt, with a parking area. Katie Aldridge, 5, of Georgetown, Ky., runs through the Legion Park Spray Steve Vied, 270-691-7297, Park on July 23 while visiting her svied@messenger-inquirer.com grandmother in Owensboro.

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28 OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

UTILITIES

OMU plan to buy Big Rivers power in the works BY AUSTIN RAMSEY

gas wells in the U.S. has given way to a flood of low-cost fuel on the market, municipal-owned coal-fired fter yearsÂ of waiting, the distributorsÂ such as OMU have been future of Owensboroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unable to recover all of their wholesale energy consumption is a little fixed costs. As a result, energy cost more clear. Once the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coal-fired adjustments largely on the backs of Elmer Smith Station electric plant is customer-owners have become the decommissioned in 2020, Owensboro norm and provoked uncertainty among Municipal Utilities will purchase most of officials. its power from Big Rivers Electric Corp. By late 2016, another revised IRP The City Utility Commission in July recommended a total shutdown of the signedÂ a purchase-power agreement aging Elmer Smith Station by 2023 due with the Henderson-based coal-fired to market economics and environmental electricity cooperative and unveiled a costs OMU would bare. That report broader energy portfolio that will extend suggested the utility either plug in or Owensboroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy fuel consumption produceÂ â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that is, purchase power from Photo by Evan Mattingly, Messenger-Inquirer into the solar market by the year 2022 an available regional source or produce Josh Bates, an OMU technician, removes wires during a replacement of transand give OMU more control over its its own natural gas-fired energy in mission poles from wood to steelÂ July 10 at Tamarack Road. rates, which have increased steadily Owensboro. over the last decade. Ultimately, the commission approved there, which gives them gainful 50 megawatts for KyMEA and 30 OMU Interim General Manager a shutdown plan by 2023 and scrapped megawatts for OMU. employment until the Elmer Smith Kevin FrizzellÂ said the Big Rivers a proposed natural gas plant contract in The identity of that Kentucky solar Station shuts down, then we have proposal mostly falls in line with OMUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Henderson. In March of last year, OMU provider will be made public when or if trained staff and former OMU mission. issued a cooperative request for natural the utility commission approves such an â&#x20AC;&#x153;The action taken by our commission employees can continue to work. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a gas-based generation withÂ KyMEAÂ and agreement.Â win-win.â&#x20AC;? fulfills OMUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission of providing reviewed preliminary results by August. OMU beganÂ thisÂ years-long OMU meanwhile has commissioned reliable and quality service at the most Two months later, the utility issued its processÂ in 2013 when an independentlya transmission studyÂ andÂ will be economical cost,â&#x20AC;? he said. own coal-based capacity and energy reviewed integrated resource plan responsible for anyÂ applicable Under the terms of the plan, OMU RFP and received bids from Big Rivers, recommended that one of the two infrastructure upgrades it recommends. will pay Big Rivers a fixed cost for a Dynegy Marketing & Trade LLC and coal-fired units at Owensboroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power But according to Tim Lyons, OMUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certain threshold of energy, as needed, Kentucky Utilities. station be shut down by 2022. A 2015 director of delivery, those are one-time from the point at which the Smith study revised that recommendation to a station is expected to shut down on June costs and the agreement protects OMU Austin Ramsey, 270-691-7302, from future transmission cost liabilities. Unit 1 shutdown by 2019, due primarily 1, 2020, until Dec. 31, 2026. Officials aramsey@messenger-inquirer.com, to economics. Big Rivers willÂ take over OMUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s say they have signed a non-disclosure Twitter: @austinrramsey As hydraulic fracturing at natural agreement with the cooperative to keep costly third-party load forecasting and scheduling. OMUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future portfolio those rates private, though Frizzell said will include at least 25 megawatts of they fall well below what customers power from the Southeastern Power would pay if no action were taken. ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ Additionally, Big Rivers has agreed to Administration and up to 30 megawatts of power from a solar farm in Kentucky give preferential treatment whenÂ filling â&#x20AC;&#x2122; CHOICE A that has yet to be built. RS jobs to the estimated 60 OMU The solar option is part of another employees who will lose theirs when the Smith station closes, which was an offer cooperative bid with the Kentucky 2018 Municipal Energy AgencyÂ that unavailable in any other bid, Frizzell 724 Time Dr. â&#x20AC;˘ Owensboro, KY has so far produced wind, solar added. and hydroelectric options. Under a Big Riversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; President and CEO Bob Lic. #MO1723 Berry called that a mutual gain for both price-fixed, 20-year term, Frizzell said, www.joneswoolfolkins.com a power-purchase agreement with the utilities. 1911 Old Henderson Road AUTO-HOME-FARM-BUSINESS best bidder could ultimately split a total â&#x20AC;&#x153;Their skills match our skills,â&#x20AC;? he One Block South of 9th & Crabtree LIFE-HEALTH said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If we can find good employees of about 80 megawatts of electricityÂ â&#x20AC;&#x201D; MESSENGER-INQUIRER

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OUR REGION | Daviess County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

ON THE HORIZON

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Shawn Shuman, of Top Notch Turf Sod Farm of Livermore, puts down grass sod July Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer 26 on the lawn outside the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum. The Bluegrass A worker moves gravel outside the exterior walls at the site of the new state-ofMusic Hall of Fame & Museum will have a grand opening weekend on Oct. 18-20. the-art Malco Cinema under construction July 18 at Gateway Commons.

Many plans in place for Daviess’ future BY KEITH LAWRENCE

been neglected so long.” • Three new hotels are coming. A Best Western hotel is scheduled here are a lot of big things on to open soon on Goetz Drive near the horizon in Owensboro. Towne Square North. Here are a few: The TownePlace Suites in Gateway • Gulfstream Commercial Services Commons is slated to open around the is turning the 30-acre former Texas first of the year. Gas property at Frederica Street and And Jack Wells and Matt Tamarack Road into The Shoppes at Hayden have said they plan to start 3800 Frederica, a mixed-use project construction on a still-unnamed with retail, restaurants, offices and hotel across Second Street from the apartments. The site plan for the complex shows Owensboro Convention Center this fall or early next year. six new buildings along Frederica • The Owensboro-Daviess County Street and two along Tamarack Road. It Convention & Visitors Bureau is trying also shows five four-story apartment to decide if the community needs more buildings on the west side of the indoor sports facilities and, if so, how to property. Whether the iconic black four-story pay for them. • The $15.3-million Bluegrass former Texas Gas headquarters building can be saved is still in doubt at Music Hall of Fame & Museum at Second and Frederica streets is this point. scheduled to open Oct. 18-20 with three “We hope to repurpose the days of music, including a free outdoor building like we did the Alorica “Downtown ROMP.” Building downtown,” Ed Ray, Concerts in the 447-seat Gulfstream’s chief operating officer, Woodward’s Theatre should start soon said recently. “But we’re not sure yet after that. if that can be done. We may find that a new structure needs to be built. It’s • Gateway Commons along U.S.

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

60 between Kentucky 54 and Pleasant Valley Road is continuing to add stores. • The second downtown parking garage is nearing completion and should open soon. • Jagoe Homes said earlier this year that it plans to break ground this fall on a $25-$30 million condominium complex that will stretch along Veterans Boulevard from Allen to St. Ann streets. Eighteen condos are planned along with 12,000 square feet of retail, the company said.

• Two new restaurants are under construction in the Parrish Avenue/ Kentucky 54 corridor. Church’s Chicken is building in Gateway Commons. Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers has a restaurant under construction on Patriot Run in Heartland Crossing. And a franchisee says he is looking for a location for a Captain D’s. Keith Lawrence, 270-691-7301, klawrence@messenger-inquirer.com

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30 OUR REGION | Hancock County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

HANCOCK COUNTY

INSIDE

HANCOCK COUNTY ARTS & FESTIVALS/31 HEALTH/32 GOVERNMENT/34 AGRICULTURE/35 LAW ENFORCEMENT/36 BUSINESS/37 Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Workers and guests attend the official opening of Aleris’ $400 million expansion at its Lewisport Rolling Mill.

EDUCATION/38

OUR REGION | Hancock County ARTS & FESTIVALS

Independence Bank plans 2018 Sorghum Festival BY RENEE BEASLEY JONES

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

n the past, Hancock County billed itself as the Sorghum Capital of the World. Sorghum was grown there and refined into dark brown syrup that locals love to smear on buttered biscuits. Farmers from Hancock County have shipped sorghum to clients all over the world. To celebrate its agricultural roots and sorghum traditions, the county has hosted a Sorghum Festival ever y autumn at the county fairgrounds. Over time, though, interest waned. The event didn’t happen for a number of years. Then, in 2013, Independence Bank stepped up and offered to bring back the festival. Now, it’s named the Independence Bank Sorghum Festival. “We have a good time providing this event to our community,” said Rick Embr y, Independence Bank Hancock County president. “It’s a commitment we will maintain for years to come.”

This year’s festival is set for Oct. 20-21 at the Hancock County Fairgrounds in Hawesville. The event is free to the public, thanks to the bank’s sole sponsorship. Instead of an entrance fee, guests are invited to bring nonperishable food items to donate to the Backpack for Buddies program. Festival entertainment includes free music, petting zoo, quilt show, antique tractor display, pony pull contest, children’s games and inflatables. About 40 vendors sell items at the event, and a dozen food booths are available. Independence Bank gives away biscuits with sorghum and butter. “A lot of people use (the festival) as a homecoming opportunity,” Embr y said. Guests from several states attend. “Attendance grows ever y year,” he said. Renee Beasley Jones, 270-228-2835, rbeasleyjones@messenger-inquirer.com

INDEPENDENCE BANK SORGHUM FESTIVAL

Oct. 20-21 at the Hancock County Fairgrounds Free admission, but donations of nonperishable food are welcome.

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

32 OUR REGION | Hancock County HEALTH

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

New Hancock County clinic opens in Lewisport BY RENEE BEASLEY JONES

McCaslin praised Rice for opening the clinic. “We’re in really good shape with health, dental, eye care, chiropractic and physical therapy,” ith Hancock County’s smaller population McCaslin said of his county’s current health care and close proximity to Owensboro and options. Tell City, recruiting doctors and other A career in medicine was a natural for Rice. Her medical professionals proved tough at times in the father, Joel White, is a retired pharmacist who once past. owned Lewisport Pharmacy. But Hancock Health opened in November 2017 Rice has worked as a nurse and nurse — without any recruitment efforts on the county’s practitioner for seven years. At one time, she was part. In fact, the clinic’s owner looked for a place in a heart nurse at Owensboro Health Regional Lewisport and took over a building formerly owned Hospital and a house supervisor at RiverValley by Owensboro heart specialist Dr. Kishor Vora. Behavioral Health. Nurse practitioner Julie Rice wanted to Later this year, she will complete her studies practice medicine in her hometown of Lewisport. in mental health. Her sister, Katie Englert, owns Her clinic across the road from Hancock Compass Counseling in Owensboro. County High School sits between Lewisport and Practicing in Lewisport was a no-brainer for Hawesville. Rice. In 2019, Rice plans to open a mental health “I love this town,” she said. “It’s my hometown.” practice in her clinic as well, giving the county two mental health options. Renee Beasley Jones, 270-228-2835, Hancock County Judge-Executive Jack rbeasleyjones@messenger-inquirer.com MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Photo by Evan Mattingly, Messenger-Inquirer

From left to right, Cala Basham, office assistant; Julie Rice, owner of Hancock Health Clinic and nurse practitioner; and Amanda Poole, office manager, keep things humming at this clinic that sits between Lewisport and Hawesville. Not pictured is Phyllis Young, who is also a nurse at the clinic.

107 Harrison St, Hawesville, KY 42348 1-800-737-0696

OUR REGION | Hancock County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

34 OUR REGION | Hancock County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

GOVERNMENT

Hancock Fiscal Court copes with budget constraints, eyes new projects BY COLLIN MORRIS

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

nconsistent revenue from Kentucky’s gasoline tax has left its 120 counties under budget constraints, forcing them to improvise and slash — a reality Hancock County Judge-Executive Jack McCaslin knows well. Kentucky’s gas tax is levied on the average wholesale price per barrel rather than the fixed per-gallon rate used by most other states. As the price per barrel fluctuates, the revenue drawn from the tax and the programs it is appropriated to fluctuate as well. Gas tax revenue received by Hancock County from the state typically goes toward infrastructure, such as paving and repaving roads, or constructing and repairing bridges. The county has even had road projects indefinitely paused by the state because of low oil costs, one of which being a major alteration in Hawesville that would divert trucks away from the city’s steep downtown hill. Another delayed road project in the industry-heavy area would’ve widened roads that are frequented by trucks heading toward Aleris and the county’s other factories. Hancock County also lost revenue from a downtick in occupational tax dollars after Century Aluminum, another major industry in Hawesville, cut hundreds of jobs. Despite these persistent budget constraints, however, the Hancock Fiscal Court has pursued a

Photo by Shaun Conklin, Messenger-Inquirer

Steve Canepari, president of the Hancock County Heritage Commission, stands at the base of Morgan’s Cave, which is part of Jeffrey’s Cliff. number of projects over the last 12 months through other means.

HELP OFFICE

The Hancock County Help Office is currently split between two separate buildings, but a grant is allowing its consolidation into one location. “We had a building that was a low-cost clothing store where

the money went toward helping people that can’t afford their bills,” McCaslin said. “And we have a food pantry that feeds probably about 180 families. This will allows us to move both of those into one building.” McCaslin said the new building will save the county money on bills related to the help office. “That’s a good thing for our community because we have people

that need our help and we were paying the utilities on two places,” McCaslin said.

JEFFREY’S CLIFF

The daughters of local landowner Jerry Harris reached out to the county about donating nearly 140 acres of land from their father’s SEE PROJECTS/PAGE 35

OUR REGION | Hancock County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

AGRICULTURE

Big Roots Farm rolls out lavender business BY COLLIN MORRIS

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

rin Ramsey and three generations of her family packed up their city lives in Evansville and moved to a new, rural scener y with the goal of starting a family business. Only two months later, the family’s eventual project, Big Roots Farm, filled its first guestbook with the names of more than 300 patrons from the surrounding area, a response Ramsey said they were not expecting so quickly. Big Roots is a lavender farm at 3204 Truman Young Road in Hawesville that opened June 2 and offers lavender oil-based products, self-cut fresh lavender bushels and a therapeutic experience, all under the moniker “Grow Peace.” “We wanted to start a family company, and so we started brainstorming and had been inspired on a trip to Oregon, so we had been growing a little bit

PROJECTS FROM PAGE 34

said. “The path in is a time to let go, and then when you get to the middle, it’s a time to meditate, pray, 1605 U.S. 60, Hawesville, KY 42348 • 270-927-6618 • https://hancock.ca.uky.edu/ get clarity, listen to the bees work, just whatever you want.” The middle of the labyrinth has of lavender in our backyard,” Roots have become notable sights a place to leave a memento, which Ramsey said. “Then we had a on social media. is meant to be symbolic of the family meeting and decided to start The first is a large, lavender-colrelease felt while walking the path. a farm. Ever ything just kind of fell ored barn that the Ramsey family in line.” Big Roots is open 8 a.m. to 4 painted themselves. It ser ves as Big Roots is not just a farm, but p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and the trendy backdrop for many of also an event space appropriate the photographs taken on the farm. from noon to 3 p.m. Sundays for weddings, retreats and from June through September. The second is a labyrinth professional photography sessions, that the Ramseys also crafted For more information, such as all garnished with the unique, themselves. While many think of prices and booking dates, visit calming effect that is a signature a labyrinth as being synonymous www.bigrootsfarm.com or @ element of its overall experience. with a maze, Big Roots’ is bigrootsfarm on Facebook. In the farm’s shop, patrons something different. can purchase lavender soaps, Collin Morris, 270-691-7360, “A labyrinth is an ancient form bubble bath, massage oil, body of walking meditation,” Ramsey cmorris@messenger-inquirer.com mist and T-shirts, among other products. There is also a kitchen area in development that will host luncheons and sell culinar y lavender products, such as lavender lemonade. Two additional features of Big

HANCOCK COUNTY EXTENSION AGENTS

in two to three years, McCaslin said.

ALCOA

The county is attempting to shore up the lost money from Century’s layoffs by recruiting businesses to occupy what was previously an Alcoa plant. After sitting vacant for nine years, WhiteRock Pigments, a chemical manufacturer, could employ about 125 and invest approximately $180 million in the location once the deal is confirmed. “We’re courting a company that we think is going to happen in the near future,” McCaslin said.

estate, seeking to fulfill his dying wish of having the land be made into a public park. That land contains a large, protruding set of cliffs and small caves that the family and county officials believe could become a tourist destination for the area. Funding for the project comes from grants and governmental historical preservation programs. “That’s going to be a big draw for our county that could bring a lot of Collin Morris, 270-691-7360, people in,” McCaslin said. Jeffrey’s Cliff is projected to open cmorris@messenger-inquirer.com

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36 OUR REGION | Hancock County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Lewisport police encourage security cameras BY COLLIN MORRIS MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he rise of accessible, high-quality video recording hardware is an asset to law enforcement, and the city of Lewisport has seen multiple examples of that in recent months. Three break-ins occurred in Lewisport in May and June, and due to the use of private security camera systems, one directly resulted in the identification of two suspects. Residents Matt and Kristin Rapp took to Facebook in late April, seeking the community’s help in identifying two suspects who had broken into their vehicle that was parked in their driveway in Hancock Park. The Rapps had private video cameras installed facing their driveway, which captured the mischief. The footage posted by Kristin showed two people, who appeared to be juveniles, using a flashlight to peer into her vehicle before opening the door and briefly sitting inside. Her video amassed hundreds of views, was shared by the Lewisport Police Department’s Facebook page and ultimately led to the identification of the two young boys. “We put the video on the Facebook page, and within five minutes, we started getting messages of people telling us they know who that is, and they were right,” Lewisport Police Chief John Garner said. In another instance May 25, the Dollar General convenience store on 8175 U.S. 60 in Lewisport was robbed in the early morning hours. Two suspects triggered an automatic call to law enforcement and were also captured on the store’s security cameras. Police arrived shortly after the pair had escaped, according to the Hancock Clarion, and they have yet to be identified. The cameras did catch pictures of them, though, and have assisted in the ongoing search. And in the most extreme example, the Lewisport branch of Hancock Bank was robbed by two suspects, one reportedly armed, on June 7. That crime was captured by the bank’s own private security footage and is being used in the investigation. Screen shots of the bank’s video surveillance footage showed two suspects, and those images subsequently appeared on the front page of the

HANCOCK COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT Hancock County Sheriff’s Department 225 Cross St. N, Hawesville, KY 42348 270-927-6247 Kentucky State Police Post 16 8298 Keach Drive, Henderson, KY 42420 270-826-3312 http://kentuckystatepolice.org/post-locations/post-16/

Hancock Clarion and on social media. The Lewisport Police Station itself is also equipped with its own high-definition video cameras that face the outside roads and sidewalks around the building, as well as the lobby and some

back rooms. “We’ve got them all the way around the building, got them inside, got them in our evidence room, and it’s really good video,” Garner said. Garner not only practices public use of such security measures, but encourages private residents to equip themselves as well -- even going so far as to recommend specific technology for his own daughter’s residential use. “We encourage people all the time to get them a system, and to get them a good system,” Garner said. “It’s kind of like having extra officers that you don’t have.” Garner said crime is cyclical and that he hasn’t seen a dramatic increase or decrease in crime in his city of Lewisport, but that cameras do seem to be good deterrents. Collin Morris, 270-691-7360, cmorris@messenger-inquirer.com

New library branch on its way

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Demolition of the former Lewisport Elementary School continued Jan. 16 and was nearing completion, clearing the way for a new Hancock County Public Library branch.

OUR REGION | Hancock County BUSINESS

Padgett uses tech savvy to fix gadgets BY COLLIN MORRIS MESSENGER-INQUIRER

cott Padgett sat at a desk in his office in downtown Lewisport. “I would like a breakfast sandwich and a cup of coffee,” he said into the phone. “Cream and sugar.” But he wasn’t calling in an order to the local diner — he was talking to an elderly woman in town who needed him to look at her computer. Padgett is the namesake of Padgetts Gadgetts, a small business he opened in 2013, and one of very few that still makes house calls. “I don’t usually take food as payment,” he said. “But sometimes.” Padgetts Gadgetts specializes in laptop computers and data recovery but also does other, miscellaneous technological repair work. Other services include, but are not limited to, virus removal, anti-virus installation, desktop computer and tablet repair, and even building new computers and servers. Padgett’s willingness to make in-home visits parallels the antique charm of his overall business model, which is to treat his customers with fairness and respect. “I’m very square with people about treating them right and being fair to them,” he said. Padgett said he has visited homes to teach people how to email photos, how to transfer files onto a flash drive, how to save a Microsoft Word document and even how to turn on a computer, but has never charged for such simple services beyond travel costs. For his more intensive work, only a handful of times has Padgett had to charge customers for his services

without being able to solve their problem, but he warns them if he thinks there’s a chance that may happen, he said. “I’ll say, ‘Listen, if you want me to do this, I’ll do the best I can, but I’ve got to charge you to do it if I’m going to sit here for eight hours today and try an impossible task,’” he said. The skill, knowledge and attention to detail required for technological repair work Padgett has gained from his time in the military, he said. “That’s what I did in the Navy, was troubleshooting,” Padgett said. “I was a master troubleshooter. They would take me and another guy on a helicopter and fly us to other ships where people couldn’t fix things. If a piece of equipment had been down for a couple days, me and him would go and assist those technicians.” Padgett was born in Bedford, Indiana, moved to Tennessee following his 10-year service in the U.S. Navy, and finally settled in 2005 in Hancock County, briefly working at Century Aluminum before opening his thriving business. Though Padgetts Gadgetts in many ways serves the needs and culture of a rural community, Padgett also does professional work for many companies in the area. Another tradition at the small business is its status as “Sysco approved,” a label prominently displayed on the storefront window. Sysco is Padgett’s dog, the business’ mascot and a friendly face that in-store customers have the privilege of seeing. Collin Morris, 270-691-7360, cmorris@messenger-inquirer.com

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Barton’s bourbon

Photo by Shaun Conklin, Messenger-Inquirer

Indian Lake cabin owner Ed Sheriff holds a bottle of bourbon from the 1920s. The liquor is believed to come from master distiller Henry Barton’s stash — some of which may still be buried around Ed and Cindy Sheriff’s Hancock County cottage.

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38 OUR REGION | Hancock County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

EDUCATION

Hancock County Public Schools district at the forefront of state pension protests BY COLLIN MORRIS

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

HANCOCK COUNTY SCHOOLS

hard as we did, that would be the new truth,” Herrmann said. “And if they do that, people like me who only have a few years left are stuck.” Herrmann said teachers never wanted to be away from their classrooms, but many of them felt it was what was necessary to stand up for education. “We want to be with our kids, in the school, teaching,” Herrmann said. “We’re not legislators or lobbyists. We’re teachers.”

wave of unrest hit Kentucky’s North Hancock Elementary School • 270-927-7900 public schools in late March South Hancock Elementary School • 270-927-6762 and early April in response Hancock County Middle School • 270-927-6712 to the General Assembly’s pension Hancock County High School • 270-927-6953 overhaul bill. Hancock County Public Schools veto was then overridden by the was at the helm of mounting teacher number of sick days that teachers can put toward their retirement demonstrations as one of the first legislature. It was challenged in benefits and moving teachers hired school systems forced to cancel court by Attorney General Andy after Jan. 1, 2019 into a 401(k)-style class because of participation in the Beshear and ruled unconstitutional defined contribution retirement plan. #SickOut movement. by a circuit judge. Those changes resulted in a HCPS Superintendent Kyle Estes “I worry that people are going 291-page bill with no actuarial tweeted at 5:37 a.m. on March to feel like nothing happened so it’s Collin Morris, 270-691-7360, analysis and no time for 30, “Hancock County cmorris@messenger-inquirer.com legislators to read, review OK, but if we had not fought that as Schools will be closed “I worry that and consider before Friday, March 30, 2018 people are voting. The bill went due to a high rates of from being unveiled in staff absenteeism and our going to feel like inability to safely cover nothing happened committee to passage in a mere six hours. the required absences so it’s OK, but if Katie Herrmann, with substitutes.” we had not fought president of the Hancock That same day, County Education Hancock County teachers that as hard North Hancock Hancock County Association, led the went out educating the as we did, that Elementary School High School charge against SB151 in county about why they would be the new the county — organizing 80 State Route 271 S. 330 Frank Luttrell Road called in, handing out Lewisport, KY 42351 Lewisport, KY 42351 and educating teachers candy to kids, delivering truth. And if they Phone (270) 927-6953 Phone (270) 927-7900 on what was happening backpacks filled with do that, people Fax (270) 927-8677 Fax (270) 295-6332 food to less fortunate like me who only in Frankfort. Paul Poole, Principal Ashley Gorman, Principal “We’re trying to get families and providing have a few years some changes made in day care services at the Hancock County South Hancock Frankfort so that we’re left are stuck.” local churches, all while Middle School Elementary School not back there again this symbolically protesting 8631 State Route 69 100 State Route 271 S. — Katie Herrmann next session,” Herrmann Senate Bill 151. Lewisport, KY 42351 Hawesville, KY 42348 president, Hancock said. SB151 passed in the Phone (270) 927-6762 Phone (270) 927-6712 County Education The HCEA and legislature the night Fax (270) 927-9895 Fax (270) 927-9400 before by a 49-46 margin Association the district’s teachers Traci Sanders, Principal Michael Swihart, Principal then left the following with all 35 Democrats Monday for Frankfort, where they and 11 Republicans opposing the Hancock County Board of Education joined thousands of other teachers in measure. 83 State Route 3543 protesting the “sewer bill.” The bill had originally been a Hawesville, KY 42348 Ultimately, the bill was wastewater services bill that had its Phone (270) 927-6914 • Fax (270) 927-6916 provisions stripped and replaced with vetoed by Gov. Matt Bevin , who Kyle Estes-Superintendent supported a plan that allocated less alterations to Kentucky’s pension system, including limiting the education dollars per pupil. The

OUR REGION | McLean County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

MCLEAN

COUNTY

INSIDE

MCLEAN COUNTY GOVERNMENT/40 AGRICULTURE/42 ARTS & FESTIVALS/43 BUSINESS/44 EDUCATION/45 HEALTH/46 Photo by Don Wilkins/McLean County News

Calhoun Elementary School teacher Tracey Dame plays with 10-year-old Reese Hodskins as he hangs out inside the wheel of a John Deere combine during April 13â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ag Safety Day at Myer Creek Park.

LAW ENFORCEMENT/47

40 OUR REGION | McLean County GOVERNMENT

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Cooperation provides countywide treatment plant BY AUSTIN RAMSEY

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ooperation can build a lot more than just trust. For a group of cities and agencies in McLean County, it canÂ form the foundationÂ for aÂ new, state-of-the-art water treatment plant. Earlier this year, the McLean County Regional Water Commission completed one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s single largest multilateral construction projects when itÂ switched online a 2 million-gallon-a-day water treatment plant in Calhoun.Â The $10 million project, completed in late January, went on much longer than many officials in the county would have hoped. It was stayed a year prior when the commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first

contractor,Â Peyronnin Construction, filed for bankruptcy, leaving the future of many substantial construction projects in the region inÂ doubt. Indianapolis-based Thieneman Construction was hired last spring to complete the water plant, but delays continued as the new firm confronted scheduling issues and resumed challenging line work across much of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interconnecting fresh water infrastructure.Â Now, as the plant meets the demands for Livermore, Island, Calhoun, the North McLean Water District and aÂ portion of Sacramento, Judge-Executive Kelly Thurman said the wait was worth it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Completion of the new McLean County Regional Water Commission

STEPHANIE SALMONS / McLean County News

Lance Wilson, superintendent of the McLean County Regional Water Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Calhoun plant, tours the high service pumps at the new facility, which carries treated and finished water product to the distribution systems.

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OUR REGION | McLean County treatment plant is a highlighted event,” he said. “(It’s) providing dependable water production service for county and city water districts.” That wasn’t always so. For decades, McLean County’s water districts worked independently of each other, drawing water from the Green River or purchasing it from water suppliers in neighboring counties. Federal regulations left the county’s few processing facilities nearly obsolete, and price fluctuations, over which the district had no control, quickly befell water customers. In 2009, a coalition of leaders called Driving Area Water Needs went about changing that. By 2011, the coalition had attracted county support and earned state approval to form a regional water commission. Existing plants in Calhoun, which went online in the 1990s, and in Livermore, which was originally built in the 1930s, weren’t designed

to meet capacity or regulations. Willingness to put aside factional differences and build support for a common cause earned the commission a Spirit of Kentucky award in 2015. Thurman has said it’s what makes the county’s governments unique -- that no matter how big the struggle, leaders made up of caring, interested citizens, step up. Instead of tackling the needs of each individual water system, the commission generated a comprehensive plan to consolidate the county’s water functions into one centralized system. This concerted plan allowed the county to effectively control the area’s water production, capacity and cost by combining resources and avoiding repetitive expenses.

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42 OUR REGION | McLean County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

AGRICULTURE

Extension office offers valuable ag info BY SETH DUKES

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he McLean County Extension Office offers a large amount of information on agriculture, which is one of the leading industries in the area. Additionally, they organize and conduct activities and events to help educate about the importance of agriculture in the community as well as providing information on family and consumer sciences. As a part of the outreach program of the University of Kentucky’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Ag Agent David Fourqurean says that their office has the ability to help individuals find answers to many different types of questions. “Extension agents don’t necessarily have to know the answer,” Fourqurean said. “They just have to know where to find the answer, and the good thing about UK is that they have a lot of people that are hired to get the answers and to know the answers.” Fourqurean says their primary purpose is to educate, but they also act as problem solvers for local farmers. If a farmer needs to identify

an insect that is plaguing a crop, the Extension Office has the resources to help with that. Additionally, the Extension Office can help provide farmers with valuable information on the most effective times and methods to plant various crops, even providing detailed information on what crops work best in the local environment. The Extension Office is also involved in the organization and planning of many agriculturecentered events in the community, such as Farm to Fork Dinner, which the organization hopes to make an annual occasion. This year’s event, held July 10 at Calhoun Photo by Seth Dukes, Messenger-Inquirer Baptist Church, drew more than Ag Agent David Fourqurean speaks to those in attendance at the Farm to Fork 200 guests. The dinner featured all dinner held July 10 at Calhoun Baptist Church. Kentucky Proud products grown locally in the county or in close proximity to the county. Fourqurean estimated that about $3,000 was raised to benefit God’s House of “Every child deserves support from both parents” Hope, a food bank in Island that helps feed approximately 350 Call 273-5610 families per month. The event served as a kick-off to the county McLean County Child Support Division Ag Fair, another event with which the Extension Office is heavily Courthouse – 2nd Floor involved. For more information on the P.O. Box 262 Extension Office, call 270-273-3690.

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OUR REGION | McLean County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

ARTS & FESTIVALS

Festivals draw large crowds to McLean BY SETH DUKES

Myer Creek Park in Calhoun, originated in 2017 as a combination of the McLean County Fair and estivals are a large part of each the McLean County Ag Festival. A year in McLean County, with major goal of the Ag Festival was the Battle of Sacramento, Ag to accommodate local youth and Fair and Livermore Independence allow the 4-H, FFA, homemakers Day Celebration drawing large and home gardeners a chance to crowds to the area. The Battle of Sacramento, which showcase their projects. The Ag Fair had events scheduled July 8-July 14, was organized for the 24th year in 2018, seeks to both educate those in and Ag Fair Board Chairman Allan attendance on the area during the Murray said they tried to combine 1800s as well as entertain them with the best elements from the previous re-enactments and various period events from which the Ag Fair was shops and booths. derived. The event aims to recreate the “We tried to take the things that time period during the Civil War. both of those groups did right to Re-enactors often camp through make it into one event,” Murray said. the weekend and remain dressed Livermore’s Independence Day in period clothing throughout the Celebration, held July 4, generally event. draws crowds as large as 3,000 Wendell Miller, the chairman people. From parades to food booths of the Battle of Sacramento to, of course, fireworks, the event Committee, said that the event is a offers something for everyone. combination of entertainment and “It really is a family-friendly education. event,” Special Events Coordinator “It lets people know something about the history of the area and the Sonny Renfrow said. “That’s really what we are focused on. You can’t war,” Miller said. The Ag Fair, an event held at beat food, fun and fireworks.”

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MCLEAN COUNTY CLERK, e, Vicki, Mariann arol, Collin, C lle. e h ic & M

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Photo by Seth Dukes, Messenger-Inquirer

Michael Crutcher portrays Frederick Douglass at the 2018 Battle of Sacramento.

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44 OUR REGION | McLean County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

BUSINESS

Jay’s keeps it all in the family BY SETH DUKES

cheeseburger. She said that, regardless of what someone orders, the staff does its best to ay’s Drive-In in Calhoun has been a fixture of the community make it a memorable experience. “I won’t send anything out of since 1960. Owner Regina Mauzy said it’s always been a family here that I wouldn’t eat,” Mauzy said. “That’s been my main thing all affair. Mauzy has worked at the along.” restaurant for 42 years. She worked The eatery is traditional in many for the original owner, C.H. Paulsen, senses. Debit or credit cards aren’t and for his son after he became the accepted, and Mauzy said she owner. Four years ago, she decided believes that helps simplify and to become the owner. speed up their service. “I have been here this long, I “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” may as well just go ahead and take Mauzy said. “Change is good, but in it,” she said. some instances, you don’t want to Mauzy said that she and her change a lot of stuff.” staff are very close and that family Mauzy said that they have always comes first for them. Her visitors come from out of state, daughter and grandchildren also whether they’ve heard about the work at the restaurant. classic restaurant through a relative “We are all one big, happy or they’re returning to relive family,” Mauzy said. “We fight like brothers and sisters sometimes, but memories from their childhood in the area. we get over it.” For more information, call The drive-in serves traditional 270-273-5297 or visit the Facebook drive-in food and Mauzy said its page for Jay’s Drive-In. most popular item is the classic

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Regina Mauzy, owner of Jay’s Drive-In in Calhoun, prepares bacon in the morning for the busy day ahead. Mauzy has owned the restaurant for four years, and she has worked there for 42.

OUR REGION | McLean County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

EDUCATION

School system ready for a successful year BY SETH DUKES

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ith the hiring of a new superintendent and a new McLean County High School principal, changes are bound to occur in the McLean County school system this year. Members of the board said they are working hard to make a positive impact on students in the future. Tommy Burrough, the new superintendent of McLean County Public Schools, has helped introduce a strategic plan for the school system that spans the next several years. This plan not only sets educational goals, but also

struggling in a particular area. “They can go back and work on something multiple times and Calhoun Elementary School • 270-273-3264 they’re not singled out,” Brackett Livermore Elementary School • 270-278-2522 said. “No one else knows how Marie Gatton Phillips Elementary • 270-736-2343 many times they are having to McLean County Middle School • 270-273-5191 work on that.” Members of the board and the McLean County High School • 270-273-5278 staff at the central office hope that this platform will go beyond goals for the district as a whole, year, the freshman class was the freshman and sophomores and will including ever y department. first in McLean County to learn eventually be a tool that all four “It gives ever ybody the same under the new online learning grade levels at the high school can shared vision from the top down platform. This year, the program take advantage of. Students and to the kids,” Burrough said. will be provided to the freshman staff alike have reacted positively “Ever ything in this plan has one and sophomore classes. Jodie to its implementation, and district focus: student success.” Brackett, the assistant staff believe that its advancement Additionally, McLean County superintendent of instruction, will better the educational High School will expand its said that this can be extremely Summit Learning platform. Last beneficial for students who may be opportunities offered to students.

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46 OUR REGION | McLean County HEALTH

Foundation seeks to end childhood obesity in McLean County

Plow Day

BY AUSTIN RAMSEY

Breathitt, Clinton, Grant, Jefferson, McCracken and Perry. All but Jefferson County will focus on preventing and ackling childhood obesity has long been a priority for leaders in reducing childhood obesity. Under this initiative, the foundation McLean County. also provides technical assistance, The Partnership for a Healthy coaching and training. McLean County identified obesity According to Brooke Fogle, public among young people as a concern several years ago and its board, made up health services coordinator with the of representatives with health, education, Green River District Health Department, business and government backgrounds, the partnership in McLean County recognizes the compounding effects has sought to identify key partnerships obesity has on other areas of health, and initiatives that promote healthier especially later in life. The best way to eating and exercise. One such partnership has shaped the address those needs, before they even community and began to turn the needle happen, is to develop an environment that encourages healthy eating, exercise in an encouraging direction. In 2015, the partnership was awarded and good mental health at a young age. the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky’s There’s no better way to do that, she said, than incorporating it into an existing Initiative in Kentucky’s Future Grant, educational framework. a financial backing aimed to support “No other community in this area health coalitions in communities across specifically focuses on children in that the commonwealth seeking innovative way,” Fogle said. “That gave them ways to reduce chronic disease risk the grant opportunity, which is pretty factors for school-aged children. amazing for a small, rural county.” The most recent and largest single But it’s critical, she said, because grant to date in the region is an ongoing McLean County has a high poverty pledge of almost a quarter of a million dollars to help combat childhood obesity rate and it faces daunting health sector challenges. in McLean County. “McLean County doesn’t have The three-year health coalition grant a hospital like Daviess County and has helped construct new playground Henderson County,” Fogle said. “They equipment at Myer Creek Park in even recently lost a grocery store, which Calhoun, develop a walking program can discourage healthy eating. It’s an at McLean County Middle School uphill climb, but the partnership is and supplement a backpack feeding program at Calhoun Elementary School. taking on the challenge.” Judge-Executive Kelly Thurman said It has paid for new physical education McLean Fiscal Court has also played a equipment in all five schools in the role in helping match funds to further county schools district and funded comprehensive training and curricula for the foundation grant’s capacity to do good. teachers. The funds expire in 2018. Austin Ramsey, 270-691-7302, McLean County was one of seven aramsey@messenger-inquirer.com, counties statewide to receive the grant. Twitter: @austinrramsey Other counties to receive funds were

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Devinn Winkelman / McLean County News

Mike Simpkins of Greenville uses a 1955 McCormick Farmall to plow a section of land at the Miles Stratton Farm during the seventh annual Plow Day on Nov. 21, 2017, as participants in the back do the same.

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OUR REGION | McLean County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Local troopers awarded for exemplary service BY SETH DUKES

years at the beginning of his career with the KSP, said that he owes the award to the people he serves. wo Kentucky state troopers with close ties “That award is a reflection of the community,” to McLean County were recognized July King said. 16 in Lexington. King has been instrumental in organizing a Trooper David Ammon was awarded Post 16’s program geared toward education of the dangers Trooper of the Year award, and Master Trooper of social media. The program, called “Surviving Corey King was named 2017 Public Affairs Social Media as a Family,” helps warn parents Officer of the Year. and teachers about what their children could Both troopers are assigned to the KSP Post in encounter on social media websites. Henderson, which covers McLean County. “There are a lot of parents that simply just do Ammon, who has been a member of the not know what goes on in that area,” King said. KSP since 2014 and patrols Ohio and McLean “It’s not that parents aren’t doing the right thing, counties, said the people in McLean County make his job easier and more enjoyable. Photo courtesy of Kentucky State Police it’s just that a lot of them don’t know what to look “It’s not a popular time to be in law Trooper David Ammon, Detective Aaron Pryor and for.” King says that he will always remain close enforcement,” Ammon said, “but I enjoy the Trooper Corey King are pictured. with the people in McLean County regardless of people in McLean County because we have similar values. They make my job easy.” criminal arrests and 33 DUI arrests from January where his career takes him. “I have a hard time giving that county up; I A press release from the KSP described through mid-July, according to the release. won’t do it,” said King. “There is a special place Ammon as having a tremendous work ethic. King, an 18-year veteran of the agency who in my heart for McLean countians.” Ammon has investigated 72 cases with nearly 200 patrolled the McLean County area for many

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48 OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

MUHLENBERG COUNTY

INSIDE

MUHLENBERG COUNTY AGRICULTURE/49 ARTS & FESTIVALS/50 BUSINESS/51 EDUCATION/52 GOVERNMENT/53 HEALTH/54

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LAW ENFORCEMENT/55

OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County AGRICULTURE

Muhlenberg County row crops sustain growth “We are the most northeastern county with dark-fired production,” Simpson said. “Our uhlenberg County numbers are small compared agriculture producers maintained traditions and to those in the western edge of Kentucky. We will probably made new strides in 2018. rank number 10 in the state for The county had 44,000 acres dark-fired tobacco.” of row crops, with 25,000 acres in Dark-fired tobacco takes its soybeans, 18,300 in corn and 700 name from the process in which acres in tobacco. it is cured and smoked by wood Darrell Simpson, the fires. Muhlenberg County extension The county also produces agent for agriculture and natural resources, said the amount of row burley tobacco. Simpson said county farmers crops in 2018 looks much different have about 9,000 cows and calves than a few years ago. currently, and they produce a fair “The commodity prices were amount of feeder calves in the moving up from about 2010 to 750-pound range. He said prices 2012,” Simpson said. “Farmers have remained relatively good for were offered higher prices for their land, so some farmers might cattle. Muhlenberg County benefits have been at an age to get rid of from having grain markets north their cows and lease that land and east of it in Owensboro and over.” Simpson said commodity prices Ohio County and markets south have started to fall since then, but of it in Christian County and Russellville. most farmers probably continued “Our county is in a kind of to lease their pasture lands for row unique position where our farmers crops, bumping up the acres of can split between the north and production for the county. Though the county isn’t a large south markets,” Simpson said. “If the farmers have storage and see producer of tobacco, Simpson prices move advantageous for the said the product the county northern market, they will move it does produce is unique for the region. About 80 percent of the there.” tobacco grown in Muhlenberg Jacob Dick, 270-228-2837, County is dark-fired, which is jdick@messenger-inquirer.com, used in pipes or chewing tobacco products. Twitter: @jdickjournalism

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Regional champs

BY JACOB DICK

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Photos by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Muhlenberg County players storm the field to celebrate around pitcher Brennan Myers after winning the 3rd Region Tournament championship game June 1 over Ohio County at Ohio County High School.

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50 OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

ARTS & FESTIVALS

Greenville festivals make Main Street the place to be BY JACOB DICK

of which stay open for the concert,” said Colbi Ferguson, Greenville’s tourism director. “This just brings wo annual Greenville events people downtown, brings people keep people flocking to the together and draws people from western Muhlenberg County outside the community.” town throughout the year. These concerts are set up on During the summer, Saturdays on Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com/geans@messenger-inquirer.com the Veterans Plaza adjacent to the Square keeps Greenville’s Main Sydney Hitchel of Cromwell straightens her original Bluegrass Design Company Main Street each week. The street Street packed with concert-goers. dangle earrings in the booth she set up at Squash and Gobble on Sept. 16, 2017, closes at 5 p.m. ahead of the 8 p.m. Saturdays on the Square is a in Greenville. concerts, and patrons bring their tradition that brings Greenville and own chairs. Parking is surrounding county also available throughout residents to enjoy free “This just brings concerts, food trucks, people downtown, downtown. In the fall, Greenville local stores, restaurants brings people hosts the Squash and and more. together and Gobble Arts Bazaar and The summer 2018 draws people from Fall Festival. This year’s lineup kicked off event is scheduled for with Zack Williams, outside the Sept. 15 in downtown an award-winning community.” Greenville. contemporary Christian “We have over a artist. 12 South, billed as — Colbi Ferguson hundred vendors to Nashville’s No. 1 party Greenville tourism director showcase our handmade band, performed July 14. Award-winning country musician items,” Ferguson said. “Year after year, this event gets bigger and Phil Vassar performed July 21, and bigger.” the Louisville Chashers appeared The event features local vendors July 28. and regional experts like the LouEnding the Saturdays on isville-based The Glass Talisman, the Square season was Lee which blows glass into custom Greenwood on Aug. 4. Greenwood designs. has more than 30 albums in his One of the latest additions is a more than 30-year career. He has 50 foot-by-70 foot Giant Jumping seven No. 1 hits and 25 charted Jack o’Lantern at Main Street and singles, including “God Bless the West Main Cross. USA,” “Somebody’s Gonna Love More information can about You” and “Dixie Road.” Greenville Tourism can be found at “There is a lot going on, there are all the shops downtown, most tourgreenville.com.

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County BUSINESS

Small businesses offer unique items, slice of community

BY JACOB DICK

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

uhlenberg County has a growing number of small businesses throughout its communities that serve locals and attract shoppers from out of town. Logan Porter, president of the Greater Muhlenberg Chamber of Commerce, said the county’s small businesses and small business owners personify the elements that keep Muhlenberg County growing. “Our local small business retail shops make Muhlenberg County unique and offer an outstanding shopping experience,” Porter said. “Everyone in Muhlenberg County is focused on making our community even better than it is today and our businesses are no exception.” The following are just a few of the small businesses Muhlenberg County has to offer:

GREENVILLE

House of Onyx is a one-stop-shop for fine jewelry art and giftware at 120 S. Main St. This unique location offers a wide-variety of cultured pearls, gold jewelry, gemstones, sterling silver, fossils, meteorites, mineral specimens and other interesting items. Fred and Shirley Rowe have owned and operated this Greenville “gem” since 1967. On Main is a boutique located at 133 S. Main St., where else? This shop has gifts and trinkets for weddings, housewarmings and just for yourself. On Main offers personal accessories, gourmet food, home

decor and baby items. Luke’s Town and Country Flea Market is a shop with a little bit of everything found at 2006 U.S. 62. Open since 1979, the market gives shoppers 13 acres of booths to browse every Monday and Tuesday. The market is also open Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day weekends.

CENTRAL CITY

Tri-City Auto Parts and Building Supply at 215 N. First St. is equal parts general store and a piece of history. A product of the combination of Central City Lumber Company founded in 1909 and Tri-City Auto Parts created in 1956, the supply store offers hard to find parts and general hardware for any project. It also supports local producers by selling honey, sorghum, eggs and other seasonal products. Depot Gift and Corner Fashion offers an array of apparel, jewelry and home decor items at 127 East Broad St. It also stocks Kentucky Proud gourmet food items like ice cream from Crank & Boom from Lexington. This shop offers private shopping events, personal shopper services and wedding or baby shower registrations. The Homestretch has two locations in both Greenville and Central City. This shop specializes in locally made products, as well as well-known lines like Dixie Reserve and Umgee. It carries apparel for men and women, home decor and accessories.

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Dribble drive Muhlenberg County’s Destin Armour drives past Edmonson County’s Peyton Martin on March 9 during the girls’ 3rd Region Tournament at the Sportscenter in Owensboro. Photo by Greg Eans, MessengerInquirer

PRE PLANNING | AFTER CARE SERVICES 405 HOPKINSVILLE STREET GREEN VILLE, KY 42345 270-338-2440

52 OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

EDUCATION

Schools provide numerous opportunities BY JAMES MAYSE

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

efore the start of the 2018-19 school year, Muhlenberg County Public Schools were expecting slightly more than 4,500 students to enter the district’s schools in August. Those students will be met by educators who begin working when students are still very young to prepare them for college or future careers. The district is home to five elementary schools, two middle schools and a high school with two campuses. The district also has the Renaissance Center, an alternative school where students can largely work at their own pace. The district’s success rate can be measured in part by the amount of scholarship dollars the class of 2018 earned when they received their diplomas. “We had well over $2 million in scholarships awarded last year for college,” said Carla Embry, the school district’s community relations specialist. The scholarships were both athletic and academic, and one student received a prestigious Presidential Scholarship, which

will pay for all of her tuition at the University of Kentucky, Embry said. Preparation for college, or to enter the workforce, begins early at Muhlenberg Public Schools. A program that includes all K-12 students exposes young learners to career fields through speakers and field trips. The program is funded through a Work Ready Community Grant from the Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation. “Everyone at each grade level can see something about what the future can hold for them,” Embry said. Middle and high school students all take college and career readiness classes, where they look at college and job possibilities, and learn how they can prepare. The high school also includes a science, technology, engineering and math academy and a program where students can earn professional certificates. For example, a student can leave the district with a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate, allowing them to enter the field immediately, or giving them a head start on a nursing degree, Embry said. “We have dual (college) credit classes,” Embry said. “This year, they’re changing it. They’re going

to transport students who qualify to the Central City campus (of Madisonville Community College), where they’ll be instructed by college professors.” Some dual credit classes are also available online, Embry said. The Renaissance Center offers students the MOVE program, an online program that lets students work toward their high school diplomas at their own pace. The district also has a pre-K program through Head Start at all of its elementary schools and is launching a day care program

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OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

GOVERNMENT

Big changes coming to Muhlenberg County government with fall elections BY JAMES MAYSE

and Newman said he is proud of “being an instrument in tr ying to bring the county together as one, uhlenberg County rather than six entities.” Judge-Executive Rick Economic development and Newman, who has been jobs are county government’s top the county’s chief executive for 12 priority going for ward, Newman years, is leaving office at the end said. Officials hope the county’s of 2018. industrial park, Paradise Business Newman is not alone. Park, is a future location for “A lot of our senior elected industr y. officials are retiring — the clerk, “We are proud of that, and we the county attorney, the PVA continue to work on tr ying to bring (property valuation administrator), industr y in,” Newman said. “... It the sheriff,” Newman said. In will happen in time.” addition, four of the county’s five Paradise Industrial Park is magistrates are not running for within 600 miles “of half the re-election this year. Only Second population of the United States,” District Magistrate Darrin Benton he said. Also, a large potential has filed to run for a new term. workforce for those industries lives Although there will be many within a 60-minute drive from the new faces in Muhlenberg County park, Newman said. government next year, Newman Muhlenberg Fiscal Court said the future will be bright. members — Cozy Chappell, Darrin According to the U.S. Census Benton, Tommy Watkins, Brent Bureau, Muhlenberg County Sherrod and Joe Glenn Mitchell — was home to 30,816 people in have had a good working July 2017, the last year for which relationship, Newman said. statistics were available. “I know for sure we are going Muhlenberg Fiscal Court to have four new magistrates, oversees the county’s budget, and we are going to have a new provides ser vices and works county judge,” Newman said, on long-term projects, such as and the current Fiscal Court has attracting industr y. And Newman been cutting costs to have the said county officials have worked county on sounder financial footing hard to improve county buildings. for the new court. For example, “We have 28 buildings under he said the county has left open the county’s jurisdiction, and we positions unfilled and has not managed to upgrade all of them,” replaced retiring workers. Newman said. “... We built a new “We are not in the greatest of state-of-the-art 911 center, and we financial positions, but we’re OK,” built a new farmers market, too.” Newman said. “About a year and County and city officials have a half ago, we started squeezing worked together on initiatives, and making some cuts ... We were

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

able to come out of the year with a surplus, and project a surplus for next year.” Newman said there is always more to do. One ongoing issue is there is never enough money to maintain all of the county’s blacktopped roads. But Newman said he is retiring pleased with the work he has done for the county. “I really enjoyed it,” Newman said. “It has been a pleasure to ser ve the people of Muhlenberg County.”

James Mayse, 270-691-7303, jmayse@messenger-inquirer.com, Twitter: @JamesMayse

MUHLENBERG COUNTY COURTHOUSE 100 Main St., Greenville, KY 42345 270-377-3970 https://muhlenbergcountyclerk.com/

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54 OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

HEALTH

Muhlenberg has array of health care resources BY JAMES MAYSE

In January, Owensboro Health increased its footprint in the community by opening the uhlenberg County Muhlenberg County Healthplex in has seen some broad Powderly. The facility is one of three changes in health care healthplexes Owensboro Health has services over the last few years as opened this year; the others are in Owensboro Health has expanded its Henderson and Madisonville. footprint in the region. The 41,148-square-foot building The county has had its own offers primary care and specialized hospital since 1938. In 2014, care in orthopedics, along Muhlenberg Community Hospitals with diagnostic X-ray services, announced the facility had entered mammography, ultrasound, into a contract for Owensboro occupational medicine, radiology Health to provide management and laboratory services. The services. The next year, the two Powderly Healthplex also has an hospitals entered into a 20-year urgent care facility partnership. staffed by three nurse In January, The facility’s name was changed to Owensboro Health practitioners. The Healthplex is Owensboro Healthincreased its at 2025 West Everly Muhlenberg Community footprint in the Brothers Blvd. in Hospital. Powderly. The facility The partnership community by means that Owensboro is open from 7 a.m. to opening the Health resources 8 p.m. Monday-Friday, Muhlenberg are now available to and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. County Healthplex Saturday-Sunday. Muhlenberg County patients, including in Powderly. Outpatient access to specialists and surgical services support departments. are performed in the county by Because Muhlenberg County Muhlenberg Surgery Center. The has a long history of coal mining, facility provides a wide variety Owensboro Health-Muhlenberg of same-day surgery services. Community Hospital offers a coal The facility at 1008 Medical miners’ respiratory clinic and has Center Drive in Powderly offers been doing so for more than 40 same-day surgeries for ear, nose years. The clinic provides testing for and throat issues, gynecological lung and other diseases for miners, issues, orthopedics, endoscopy, and rehabilitation and treatment to ophthalmology, general surgery help manage symptoms. and pain management. The facility OH-Muhlenberg Community is accredited by the Accreditation Hospital is a full-service hospital providing surgery, occupational and Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. physical therapy, lab services, an The surgery center is open from emergency room and a sleep lab, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. among other services. Between June of last year and May, the James Mayse, 270-691-7303, hospital treated 16,625 patients in jmayse@messenger-inquirer.com, its emergency room and admitted 1,120 acute patients. Twitter: @JamesMayse MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Gary Lee, Owensboro Health Regional Clinics director, stands outside the Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Healthplex on Dec. 7, 2017, in Powderly. The center opened in January 2018.

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

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OUR REGION | Muhlenberg County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Training, professionalism hallmarks of Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Department BY JAMES MAYSE

required by the state.” The sheriff’s department’s narcotics squad, for example, has received uhlenberg County Sheriff Curtis McGehee was a special specialized training in drug interdiction, McGehee said. deputy and a chaplain with Increasing the amount of training the department before he was elected helps keep officers safe in their sheriff, so he had a familiarity with the daily patrols and investigations and department and its operations. teaches them how to handle complex But there were changes McGehee situations, he said. wanted to make. In particular, he In addition to increasing law wanted to make sure his sworn officers enforcement training, McGehee said were as knowledgeable about law one of his priorities has been making enforcement as possible. sure deputies know department McGehee started the push for policies. training with himself. “I think it’s important for law “In the state of Kentucky, it’s not enforcement to operate as professionally required for sheriffs to complete as possible and for (deputies) to know Department of Criminal Justice what the procedures are,” he said. Training” programs, he said. But There’s a need for all of that McGehee made sure he went through training. Like much of western the state police academy’s training for Kentucky, Muhlenberg County law enforcement officers, completing struggles to stop the amount of crystal the program in 2012. methamphetamine flowing into the Training is encouraged and region. emphasized at the department, “We continue to have a serious McGehee said. “I think it’s really important for us to problem with drug activity,” he said. Drug trafficking has changed. Not so maintain a high level of professionalism many years ago, methamphetamine was and have the best training, to keep produced locally in meth labs. When up with the times,” McGehee said. state lawmakers cracked down on “I’ve always encouraged our officers access to pseudoephedrine, the prime to get training above and beyond that

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ingredient in locally produced meth, the local supply largely dried up, opening the region to crystal meth brought in by large drug cartels. “When I became sheriff ... meth labs were common,” McGehee said. The Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Department does more than just solve crimes and enforce the law. The department, like all sheriff’s departments across the state, collects taxes. McGehee said his office also made changes in the way it allows people to pay their tax bills. “We’ve tried to make it more convenient” by letting people pay with

credit cards, McGehee said. A big change McGehee has seen in his time as sheriff is in how the department communicates with the public. It created a website when McGehee became sheriff and is active on social media platforms such as Facebook. Being on the web created a surprising benefit: People often use the internet to send information about crimes to the department. “We’ve had tips, literally hundreds of tips, come though our website,” McGehee said. “Sometimes, we’ll get two or three a day.”

Dating back to horse drawn carriages

MUHLENBERG COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT CONTACT NUMBERS Emergency calls ...........................................................................................................911 Central City Police Department..........................................................270-754-2464 Greenville Police Department..............................................................270-338-3133 Powderly Police Department...............................................................270-338-4990 Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Department.....................................270-338-3345 Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force.............................................................270-754-2323 Kentucky State Police Post 2................................................................270-676-3313

Central City

Beechmont

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56 OUR REGION | Ohio County

OHIO

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

COUNTY

INSIDE

OHIO COUNTY GOVERNMENT/57 EDUCATION/58 LAW ENFORCEMENT/59 HEALTH/60 BUSINESS/61 AGRICULTURE/62 Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

At The Hillside Shop at 7678 U.S. 62 West in Ohio County, Judy Harbaugh shows off an old doctor’s buggy that was used by Dr. Kittinger of Cromwell.

ARTS & FESTIVALS/63

OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

GOVERNMENT

Judge-executive: County has much to offer

BY BOBBIE HAYSE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

hio County Judge-Executive David Johnston says the county’s government is in good shape. It has gotten to this point, he said, because it’s not depressed in any way regarding finances, and it has a lot of diversity. With agriculture and manufacturing to coal mining and tourism, he said, the county has a lot to of fer. “Ohio County is a pretty good place,” Johnston said. County government is made

1269 Duvall Rd, Beaver Dam, KY 42320 1-800-737-0696

up of Johnston and the Ohio government,” Johnston said. Fiscal Cour t, which consists “My of fice is dif ferent, in a way, of five magistrates because I’m executive, that cover specific A unique aspect but also I vote on the districts: Sam Small Cour t as well.” of the county is Fiscal is the 1st District That aspect makes that Fiscal Court him a hybrid between magistrate; Jason funds law Bullock is the 2nd the executive and District magistrate; legislative branches, he enforcement, Joe Barnes is the 3rd per capita, more said. District magistrate; A unique aspect Larr y Keown is the 4th than any other of the county is that county in District magistrate; Fiscal Cour t funds and Larr y Morphew is law enforcement, per Kentucky. the 5th District capita, more than any magistrate. other county in Kentucky. “County government is “We spend more for that,” not that dif ferent than state Johnston said, “because we value

our peace and our safety.” The county seat is Har tford, and its city hall is at 116 E. Washington St., Har tford, KY 42347. George Chinn is mayor of Har tford, and he can be contacted at 270-298-3612. Beaver Dam is the largest city in Ohio County, with its city hall at 309 W. Second St., Beaver Dam, KY 42320. Beaver Dam’s mayor is Paul Sandefur, and he can be reached at 270-274-7106. The judge-executive’s of fice is at 130 E. Washington St., Suite 209 Har tford, KY 42347, and Johnston can be contacted by calling 270-298-4400.

58 OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

EDUCATION

Barb’s cupcakes

Ohio County Schools on continuous incline BY BOBBIE HAYSE

elementar y level the past few years, with the goal of ever y student reading at or above grade hio County Schools have level by the time they leave third been steadily improving grade. with each year. Studies have shown, Southard At least that’s what OCS said, that if a student becomes Assistant Superintendent Seth behind in the third grade, “it’s Southard reports. Academically, an uphill battle throughout their juniors continue to improve whole educational career.” their ACT scores, year after year, “We are putting reading and other classes are continuing to recover y in most of our elementar y perform well on assessments each schools,” he said. “That’s year as well. Enrollment is also something we haven’t had in many, climbing, with the district’s student many years.” numbers “at an all-time high.” He said educators in the district Facilities are continuing to are making greater efforts “to receive upgrades and regular make sure kids have the tools and maintenance. the equipment they need in order Administrators and teachers to be successful.” are also improving themselves The county school population each year, Southard said, with is about 4,300 students, who teachers choosing “more specific attend the county’s six elementar y and targeted professional schools, one middle school, one development.” high school, the area technology “We still have work to do when center, or the alternative learning we are compared to some of program. our surrounding neighbors, but we keep narrowing the gaps,” Bobbie Hayse, bhayse@ Southard said. Specifically, the district has messenger-inquirer.com, 270-691-7315, been focused on reading at the Twitter: @BobbieHayseMI MESSENGER-INQUIRER

OHIO COUNTY SCHOOLS

Photo by Seth Dukes/Messenger-Inquirer

Barbara Phelps, a prominent baker in Ohio County, shows off one of her most popular cupcakes flavors, banana split. She has more than 15 flavors of giant cupcakes to choose from.

Beaver Dam Elementary School • 270-274-4478 Wayland Elementary School • 270-298-3462 Southern Elementary School • 270-274-3462 Western Elementary School • 270-274-7643 Fordsville Elementary School • 270-276-3601 Horse Branch Elementary School • 270-274-4662 Ohio County Middle School • 270-274- 7893 Ohio County High School • 270-274-3366 Ohio County Area Technology Center • 270-274-9612 Ohio County Alternative Learning Program • 270-298-9092

OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

LAW ENFORCEMENT

EMA pushes for disaster preparation BY JACOB DICK

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ature has a way of changing all things. When an EF-1 tornado touched down June 25 in McHenry, a community in southwest Ohio County, winds estimated at 100 mph uprooted dozens of trees and reportedly carried the roof of a home a mile away, according to media reports. After the abrupt event, Ohio County EMA Director Charlie Shields thought it was time to make some changes on his own. “We’ve increased awareness a lot since the tornado,” Shields

said. “We’ve put a lot of effort in residents can be prepared for an helping people get prepared.” event as soon as tell-tale signs are Witnesses of the noticed. “We’ve increased tornado said the storm “We are going to keep that generated the our Facebook pages awareness a funnel appeared and updated regularly with lot since the disappeared in a manner weather information, tornado. We’ve and we’re also giving out of minutes. A video put a lot of effort weather radios,” Shields of the event posted on Facebook by Greg in helping people said. “We’re trying to give Harvey shows the them to more homes and get prepared.” tornado descending from businesses so people can the clouds, pulling trees — Charlie Shields be informed wherever they from the ground and Ohio County are. dissipating in slightly Shields said the EMA EMA Director more than a minute. was already working on Shields said he and volunteers providing weather radios to every day with the EMA were working to care in Ohio County. provide more information so With help from trained weather

spotters like Tommy Cash, the Ohio County Weather Spotters Facebook page provides updates straight from the National Weather Service Paducah about severe weather in the area. Ohio County Emergency Management Agency can be reached at 270-298-4412 or by email at ocema@ohiocountyky.gov. The weather spotters page can be found at facebook.com/OhioCountyWeatherSpotters, or area weather reports can be found straight from the source at weather.gov/pah. Jacob Dick, 270-228-2837, j dick@messenger-inquirer.com, Twitter: @jdickjournalism

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David Funk leads some beagle puppies out to train tracking rabbits for future field trial competitions Jan. 10 on his farm in Ohio County.

1350 Clay St.-P.O. Box 3-Hartford, KY-visit us at www.ohiocounty.com-270-298-3551

60 OUR REGION | Ohio County HEALTH

County’s hospital group now Ohio County Healthcare

Unique cycle

BY JACOB DICK

but didn’t have an official hospital until a 30-bed facility was built in 1956. From the addition of its first hio County’s hospital emergency room in 1996 to its organization has establishment as a critical-access rebranded to reflect its new goal of extending its ser vices facility in 2007, the hospital portion of the organization has and reach. expanded over its more than 60 Blaine Pieper, CEO of years of business. the health group, said the The group has also reached organization’s new name, Ohio out into the fields of primar y care County Healthcare, was selected and urgent care with facilities in to better represent the various Hartford, Beaver Dam and Butler practices and locations it now County. operates. Ohio County Healthcare “Over more than 60 years, has more than 30 we’ve built a strong physicians and nurse reputation for quality “We feel very and it health care,” CEO passionate about practitioners, employs more than 450 Blaine Pieper said in taking care of Ohio people. a press release. “OCH The group is still committed to County’s health.” remains a nonprofit preser ving the integrity — CeCe Robinson comprehensive health of our ser vices, which director of care network with a are now unified under community relations local board of trustees. one name to better “We feel ver y represent our facilities passionate about taking care of as a whole. The new vision and Ohio County’s health,” CeCe identity converges a rich histor y in quality care with united ser vices Robinson, director of community relations, said. “We work hard for today’s patient.” on our board to make sure The Ohio County Healthcare rebrand will apply to Ohio County the different interests of our community are represented.” Hospital; Ohio County Family More information about Care in Hartford and Beaver Ohio County Healthcare and its Dam; QuickCare Clinic; Ohio County Specialty Care in Hartford; ser vices can be found at ohiocountyhospital.com. Butler County Family Care; and Fordsville Area Medical Clinic. Jacob Dick, 270-228-2837, Ohio County saw its first jdick@messenger-inquirer.com, medical clinic in 1936 under the Twitter: @jdickjournalism guidance of Dr. Marion Crowder

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Photo by Seth Dukes, Messenger-Inquirer

For the past decade, Jimmy Wilkerson has been riding his unique bicycle creations around Ohio County and the Owensboro area. He says he doesn’t mind being photographed, but he would love if individuals tagged him on his Facebook or Instagram page when they snap a shot.

OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

BUSINESS

Business on the rise in Ohio County BY BOBBIE HAYSE

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he state of economy and business is a broad picture in Ohio County. Some recent accomplishments that have really put the county on the commerce and tech map are a $99,000 grant from the USDA Rural Development for additional coding training and staffing to assist in business and entrepreneurial efforts, according to OCEDA Executive Director Chase Vincent. Also, the Ohio County Chamber of Commerce recently launched a Shop Local Ohio County eGift card program to “incentivize local spending which circulates more money back into the community,” Vincent said. “Educational attainment and unemployment still lag behind state average but are improving steadily,” Vincent said. This can be evidenced in the business incubator The Hub in Hartford, which offers coding and virtual assistance training, and office space for rent with fiber internet, and the Ohio County Economic Development Alliance, which works with SkillTrain and the Owensboro Community & Technical College to assist GED seekers and transition more adults into post-secondary education and apprenticeship programs. The WPT Nonwovens Corporation opened its new facility this year, adding 40 jobs, and Perdue Farms is undergoing a $30 million expansion that will add 150 jobs, Vincent said. The tourism industry has also been enticing more people to the county. Beaver Dam Tourism has

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Hartford Mayor Hayward Minton pauses at the corner of Main Street and East Washington Street on April 19, 2017, in downtown Hartford while talking about current plans and building renovations going on in the city. been helping to bring in more visitors for concerts at the new Beaver Dam Amphitheater, and the new Bill Monroe Museum and revamped Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Celebration also have had a hand in increasing visits. The county is also in the final stages of a $65,000 Trail Town grant to create paddling access points along Rough River to increase outdoor recreation and tourism, Vincent said.

For more information about business and industry in Ohio County, contact the Chamber of Commerce, at 1350 Clay St., or by calling 270-298-3551 or visiting ohiocounty.com/chamber/. To learn more information about OCEDA visit ohiocounty.com/ oceda-about/. Bobbie Hayse, bhayse@ messenger-inquirer.com, 270-691-7315, Twitter: @BobbieHayseMI

Dwain Alford D.M.D. Medical Arts Building 1269 Duvall Rd # 2, Beaver Dam, KY 42320

270-274-4875

62 OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

AGRICULTURE

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Photo by Evan Mattingly, Messenger-Inquirer

Darren Luttrell is pictured with a bumper crop of corn in his grain storage build- Mary Worley, who lives in Morgantown, stands June 21 outside the Perdue ing on his farm in Ohio County. Foods’ Cromwell Plant, where she works in the debone breast department.

Ohio County a unique agriculture center

BY BOBBIE HAYSE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

f there is one word that describes agriculture in Ohio County, it would be diverse. According to Ohio County Extension Agent for Agriculture Greg Comer, the county is more diversified than many of the counties in this region. It is also the fifth largest county in the state, with about 380,000 acres. “We are kind of what I call different,” Comer said. The county is unique in at least three ways. First, while farmers

do grow some grain, they aren’t as grain-oriented as others in this Ohio River region. Second, 80 percent of farmers are part-time. Lastly, Ohio County ranks between 12 and 14 each year when it comes to state farm receipts. Corn, soybeans, a little wheat and a little tobacco are grown throughout the vast expanses of rolling and flat farmland that can be found throughout the county. While 49 percent of the large county is covered in trees, the other 51 percent provides rolling hills suitable for farming. The county is also home to the largest primary timber

industry in the state, with Dunaway Timber situated in Fordsville. There are some smaller commercial vegetable farmers that mainly service the local farmers markets, but the biggest producer in the county is livestock, according to Comer. Chicken, turkey and beef cattle are the most numerous, but there are also some goats and sheep. “We don’t have as much sheep as we did but still have about 300 to 500 heads,” he said. “That’s not large by any means, but when you look at Kentucky as a state, no county has

a huge number of sheep out here anymore.” Comer said the uniqueness of the county reminds him of where he grew up in Maysville. “It’s a good county,” he said. “I like it.” The county extension office, at 1337 Clay St., is a great resource for farmers. More information can be found at its website ohio.ca.uky.edu, or by calling 270-298-7441. Bobbie Hayse, bhayse@ messenger-inquirer.com, 270-691-7315, Twitter: @BobbieHayseMI

OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

ARTS & FESTIVALS

Photo by Bobbie Hayse, bhayse@messenger-inquirer.com

Ohio County Artists Guild member Jan Hill experiments Aug. 14, 2016, with a Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com | geans@messenger-inquirer.com loom that was recently donated to the group at the Guild House, 101 N. Main A display case at the Bill Monroe Museum houses several of Monroe’s instruSt., Beaver Dam. ments, including the last mandolin he played.

Arts, festivals and more found in Ohio County

BY BOBBIE HAYSE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

hile bluegrass is a driving force for tourism in Ohio County, it is not the only source of entertainment. Festivals and the arts are plentiful, said Jody Flener, the county’s tourism commission executive director. Rosine is the birthplace Bill Monroe, known as the father of bluegrass music, and beginning in 2018, the Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Celebration will return to the Monroe homeplace. It typically takes place in September, with this year’s celebration scheduled for Sept. 13-16. Also taking place in Rosine is the

Barn Jamboree, which in 2016 was voted by the New York Times as one of its 52 places to visit that year. The jamboree, at 8205 Blue Moon of Kentucky Highway, takes place every Friday night from March until mid-December. There are also festivals in all of the smaller communities throughout the county. The Beaver Dam Strawberry Festival takes place in late May; the Dundee Gathering Day is in late September; Fordsville Days happens in mid-September; the Rosine Fall Festival is usually during the second week in September; and the Hartford Harvest Festival takes place in early October. Arts also have a following in the

county, Flener said. “Something I don’t think people are aware of is Ohio County has an artist guild,” Flener said. “Located in downtown Beaver Dam on Main Street is the guild, which is a gathering of local artists, and guest artists.” The Ohio County Artists Guild also has classes that take place on Saturdays, but it is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, except on Sundays. Beaver Dam also is home to a state-of-the-art amphitheater that hosts big-name concerts, including John Prine and Kelly Pickler, and other events. Information about upcoming shows can be found at beaverdamtourism.com.

But there’s more than arts and festivals for folks living in or visiting Ohio County, according to Flener. All of the parks in the county have robust playgrounds and walking trails, from the Ohio County Park & Campground, at 2300 Kentucky 69, to Beaver Dam City Park, at 217 S. Main St., to High View Hill, located in the southeastern part of the county. For more information about these festivals or events, visit the Ohio County Tourism Commission website at visitohiocountyky.com, or call 270-298-0036. Bobbie Hayse, bhayse@ messenger-inquirer.com, 270-691-7315, Twitter: @BobbieHayseMI

64 OUR REGION | Ohio County

Friday, Aug. 17, 2018

Helping hand

Silver medalist

Photo by Evan Mattingly, Messenger-Inquirer

Brett Thompson throws a bocce ball down his drivewayÂ June 26 in Ohio County while practicing for the Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle. Brett and his father, Jeffery, placed second in the unified doubles M01 bocce competition.

Photo by Seth Dukes/Messenger-Inquirer

Ohio County High School Resource Officer Jerry Critchelow catches up with students Russell Simpson and Beth Daugherty on May 16 in the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lobby. In addition to protecting the students, Critchelow also interacts and builds relationships with them.

5025 Highway 231 South Beaver Dam, KY 270-274-6063 www.perduefarms.com