2023/2024 - Owensboro Relocation Guide

Welcome to Greater Owensboro, the best small city you will find.

We have an indomitable spirit here in our community. We take pride in our safe streets where you will be greeted by smiles and hellos. But the people in Greater Owensboro are not the only great thing we have to offer. There are many reasons you should choose to live in our designated All-American City named one of the Top 100 Towns in the United States and one of the Top Towns in Southern Markets that foster technology.

Here are a few:

• Exemplary primary and secondary schools nationally recognized for Fine Arts, Innovative Technology Programs and Academic Excellence.

• World-class colleges and universities with diverse programs to advance our higher education as well as workforce development and training opportunities.

• Our downtown is thriving, growing, and expanding.

• Tremendous growth in the innovation and research and development sector.

• Owensboro Health Regional Hospital’s phenomenal campus focused on patient care ranked in the top 2% in the nation in quality.

• Owensboro Convention Center with new hotels standing on each side flanked by a breathtaking riverfront park.

• Job growth, businesses expansion, and income growth exceeding our peers.

• New transportation networks being constructed to get more people and goods in and out of our community.

• An arts, entertainment and dining scene unparalleled in communities our size.

• Sports and recreational events and activities for every age and interest.

• Top Cities for Millennial Home Ownership, Top Places Where Millennials are moving, Top US Cities for Manufacturing Jobs

It’s an amazing time to be a part of this community. We hope you find this publication inspiring and a way for you to experience a small piece of our community that we are so proud to call our home.

We are honored to share it with you and we look forward to making this YOUR home too!

The Staff of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce O

MEET THE CHAMBER STAFF Julia Kimbrell. Communications and Events Coordinator Lydie Boone, Executive Assistant Candance Castlen Brake, President and CEO Shelly Nichols, Vice President Ashtin Warren, Director, Talent Programs

PHOTO

THE CULTURE, PLACES AND TRADITIONS OF OUR CITY.

GETTING TO KNOW THE BIG O

DID YOU KNOW

The iconic Kentucky Mirror Mosaic has been a local landmark for more than 40 years. In 2022, the mosaic was restored by the original artist.The six geographical regions of Kentucky — Mountain, Knobs, Bluegrass, Pennyrile, Western Coalfield, and Purchase — are featured on the mosaic, each represented in their own way by specific shapes and orientations of each piece of glass. There’s also a big glass star depicting Owensboro.

Photo by Jamie Plain

OBKY 10 LOVE things to about

GREEN RIVER DISTILLERY

Owensboro has a rich bourbon tradition, stretching more than two hundred years thanks to its location, bountiful corn crop, and limestone-filtered water. Today, local bourbon distillery and Kentucky Bourbon Trail™ destination, Green River Distillery, combines traditional crafting and barrel-aging to create a bourbon that’s quality spans centuries of Kentucky distilling history.

SMOTHERS PARK

Named one of the top 10 playgrounds by USA Today, the Lazy Dayz park is a three-level playground. 1

BLUEGRASS MUSIC

Bluegrass is a celebrated part of Owensboro’s culture. With the only dedicated Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum, the annual ROMP Festival attracting 25,000 annually to enjoy bluegrass and roots music, as well an award-winning bluegrass-themed TV show and magazine being created in Owensboro, it has become ingrained in the city’s culture. It was for these reasons that Owensboro was named the“Bluegrass Capital of the World.”

THE EMPRESS THEATRE MARQUEE

Theatre Workshop of Owensboro’s Empress Theatre on Frederica Street originally opened as a movie house in 1912. The Empress closed in 1989, reopening in 1992 as “Goldie’s Best Little Opryhouse in Kentucky” until 2008. It has been operated by TWO since 2010.

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WORLD’S LARGEST SASSAFRAS TREE

Legend has it the tree’s owner defended it at gunpoint when the development of Frederica threatened the tree. The tree is approximately 300 years old. The average sassafras is 30-50 ft tall, but our record holder measures over 100 ft tall with a 21 ft circumference.

HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS

Take a stroll on the City’s Greenbelt system, a continuous 15-mile, multi-use paved trail around Owensboro. Bike the Rudy Mine trail system, or hike the nature trails at Yellow Creek or Panther Creek Parks.

OWENSBORO HALL OF FAME

Did you know Owensboro is the home of Moto Grand Prix 2006 World Champion Nicky Hayden and NASCAR notables Michael & Darrell Waltrip? Florence Henderson, of Brady Bunch and broadway fame, attended high school in Owensboro and actor Johnny Depp was born here. Check out all 50 Hall of Fame members at the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at 215 East 2nd St.

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY

PHOTO BY WONDER BOY MEDIA

THE BLUE BRIDGE

An Owensboro icon, the Glover H. Cary “blue bridge” spans the Ohio River between Kentucky and Indiana. Originally painted silver, it was repainted blue in the ‘70s. Today, the blue bridge shines even brighter with color-changing LED lights that are programmable to match the season or for special events.

THINGS OWENSBOROANS SAY

Welcome to Owensboro. We’re glad you’re here. Greater Owensboro is known for friendly folks and southern hospitality. Hopefully you’ve picked up on that already!

That being said, we definitely don’t want you to feel like an outsider for very long. So here are some Owensboroisms you should know about. We’re not claiming any of these make any sense – it’s just the way things are here in Owensboro. Pick up on these and you’ll be talking and thinking like a native Owensboroan in no time.

IT’S NOT “POP”

First of all, we call soda “coke,” whether it’s a Coke, Dr. Pepper, Pepsi or whatever. When we say coke we mean any carbonated soft drink.

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOLS

Out-of-towners struggle with the pronunciation of Frederica Street. Owensboroans slur it like Louisvillians slur the word “Louisville.” You don’t say it phonetically. It’s pronounced “Fred-rickuh.” Three syllables. Not “Fred-er-reek-ah.”

And as for The Big Dipper, one of Owensboro’s favorite local restaurants, it’s just “The Dipper.”

LOCAL DIALECT

To an Owensboroan, the names “Brian” and “Ryan” are one syllable. “Kyle” and “Cal” almost rhyme, even though they should sound nothing alike.

For some unknown reason, we call garbage cans “toters” and knit hats “sock caps.”

Some Owensboro folks put an “r” in the word “wash.” It’s not every day, but occasionally you will hear of someone “warshing” their laundry or car.

NASCAR

In addition to being the hometown of Darrell & Michael Waltrip, many other NASCAR drivers, pit crew members, officials, and mechanics got their start at Kentucky Motor Speedway (Whitesville) and Windy Hollow Speedway.

9 10 BARBEQUE

If there’s one type of food that Owensboro is known for, it’s barbecue. We boast three award-winning BBQ joints—Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn, Old Hickory Bar-B-Que and Ole South Bar-B-Q, which bring in hungry diners from around the world.

Owensboroans call Daviess County High School “County” for short. But not so much “County High.” However, for some reason it’s perfectly acceptable to call Owensboro Catholic High School “Catholic High” or even just “Catholic” for short. But Owensboro High School is not “City” or “City High.” It’s “Senior High” because it started out as Owensboro Senior High School back in the day and we just never stopped calling it that. There’s no confusion with Apollo High School though. It’s just “Apollo.” There’s no other way to say it.

LOCAL LANDMARKS

There are two bridges: the “new bridge,” which is out Highway 60 east of town, and the “blue bridge,” which is downtown. We don’t ever call them by their proper names (like Glover H. Cary, for example). We keep it totally informal when it comes to our bridges.

There is also no “East Parrish” and “West Parrish” Avenue to an Owensboroan. It’s just “54” on the east end and “Parrish” on the west end.

Then some of us drop the “l” for no reason at all. As in “a five year ode” or a “bow” of soup. (Listen… it’s true isn’t it! Oops, idn’t it? Sorry.)

We took a non-official tally and noticed that Owensboroans are about 50/50 on the pronunciation of Thruston. Incidentally, it could be said, “Thruston Dermont Road” as it’s spelled or “Thurston (as in “thirstin”) Dermont Road.” Either way.

Some folks will put a “the” in where there’s not even a “the” needed. As in, going to “The Walmart.”

Start using these “Owensboroisms” and you’ll fit right in! O

AVERAGE CLIMATE

WINTER: teens-mid 40s

SUMMER: mid 60s-mid 90s

SPRING: 50s-70s

FALL: 50s-mid 80s

DAYS OF PRECIPITATION: 102

YEARLY SNOWFALL: 7” total

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

PHOTO BY JASON TANNER

long the rolling banks of the Ohio River, you’ll find a vibrant city that’s big enough to keep you entertained year-round, but small enough that you still know your neighbors. Owensboro—a city that’s recently seen a revitalization in both its landscape and its spirit—is a playground for all ages.

Whether you find yourself spending the day at one of Owensboro’s scenic parks, taking in a performance by the Owensboro

For All Ages

Symphony or marveling at the annual airshow, you can be sure there’s much more to Owensboro than bluegrass, bourbon and barbecue. The hidden gems of the city are boutique shopping experiences, beautiful golf courses, music and art festivals and even Broadway shows that keep Owensboro residents entertained.

A focus on downtown revitalization has created an economic boom near the riverfront, creating a trendy spot to do business and to live, as condos and shops

continue to go up. Owensboro’s summer concert series, Friday After 5, makes eight blocks of downtown come alive for 16 weeks of the year with live music, family fun, food trucks, and more.

PLANTING ROOTS

One of Owensboro’s fastest growing demographics is the young professional. Whether returning home from college or settling in Owensboro for the first time because of growing career opportunities,

WRITTEN BY JAQUELINE RUSSELL // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

The Greater Owensboro region is within 600 miles of two-thirds of America’s population and 67 miles from the median center of the U.S. population. (from the EDC website)

young professionals have become the fresh face of the city. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Young Professionals organization encourages a sense of community between the age group. CYP, as it’s called, introduces individuals from different backgrounds to one another for things like social gatherings, softball teams, philanthropy work and business networking. There’s an energy to Owensboro that can be attributed to the young movers and shakers in the community.

RAISING A FAMILY

In 2016, Owensboro earned a Playful City USA designation from the non-profit KaBOOM!, which honors cities and towns for making their location more playable and bringing balance into the daily lives of children. Owensboro exemplifies a playable town. Often called “Sportstown, USA,” it’s home to a range of youth leagues from baseball and basketball to hockey. As the sun sets on any given afternoon, you’ll find families enjoying the playgrounds in the park systems or biking along the Greenbelt—a 15mile paved path in the community connecting parks, schools and neighborhoods. Excellent school systems provide balance to the play, and prepare young minds for tomorrow. Beyond K-12 education, Owensboro is home to Brescia University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, WKU in Owensboro and Owensboro Community and Technical College –providing higher education options close to home.

ENJOYING THE EMPTY NEST

Enjoying your retirement in Owensboro could mean taking in local theater at the RiverPark Center, camping at Diamond Lake or golfing on the sprawling 18-hole course at Ben Hawes Park. Local restaurants will keep your taste buds occupied, and Owensboro is the perfect driving distance for some great one-tank road trips when you feel adventurous.

No matter what your age, Owensboro has something for everyone! O

FUN FACT: Nashville, TN

Population 689,504

Married population 42.6%

Unemployment rate 2.5

Average Commute Time 25.0

Median Age 34.2

Household size 2.34

Median home price $291,400

Moneta Sleet, the first African American to win a pulitzer prize, was from Owensboro. The community recently came together to put on a festival in his honor.

PICKLEBALL // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

BBQ & BARRELS // PHOTO BY MARCUS VELEZ

DOWNTOWN MURAL // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT

REVITALIZING DOWNTOWN

It wasn’t too long ago that Owensboro’s downtown riverfront wasn’t much more than a grassy bank dotted with park benches and one boat dock. But these days, residents and visitors alike are getting an entirely new experience when they explore Owensboro, and our downtown riverfront is one of the top attractions they seek out.

And that’s for good reason. After years in development, downtown Owensboro received a makeover several years ago in the form of a six-acre project that included waterfront views and updated sidewalks, multiple fountains, speakers playing music along light-adorned pathways, and one of the most famous playgrounds in the world at

Smothers Park.

Between 2008 and 2013, those investments generated a $1 billion economic impact for the City of Owensboro.

But that’s not all that’s happened over the last few years. Downtown Owensboro also built the Owensboro Convention Center, which has garnered nationwide fame for both its incredible architecture and world-class facilities. Leaders have also approved a $19 million, 88,000 square feet indoor sports complex to be built in the heart of downtown.

On top of that, downtown Owensboro added two—soon to be three—riverfront hotels that not only made it possible to have large-scale conventions in our city, but gave tourists beautiful waterfront views from their hotel rooms. The Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Downtown Owensboro/Waterfront

and Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront are two of the nicest, most modern hotels you’ll find in the state of Kentucky.

Top all of that off with Owensboro’s first local brewery in over 100 years, The Brew Bridge, countless new restaurants, bars and shops, and amazing venues such as the RiverPark Center, a long-standing performing arts center, and the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and you’ve got a downtown that anyone would be proud of—all right here in Owensboro.

Owensboro is no longer a sleepy river town. Downtown is awake and alive, the 54 corridor is expanding by leaps and bounds, and South Frederica is as busy as ever. We still have a small town feel, but our attitude is looking up, just like our growing skyline.

WRITTEN BY DANNY MAY // PHOTO BY JASON TANNER

DID YOU KNOW?

USA Today recognized Smothers Park in a list of “10 Best: Playgrounds with way more than slides and swings” in 2015. The article describes “a new breed of playground” designed to welcome kids of all ages while taking special consideration for those with disabilities and sensory issues.

SMOTHERS PARK

Smothers Park has become the centerpiece of Owensboro’s revitalized downtown district. It stretches five city blocks and covers five acres of land with a three-level playground that’s completely handicapped accessible, which also entices parents and grandparents to play right along with their little ones.

The people of Owensboro and visitors from across the region have found it’s easy to spend hours on a visit to Smothers Park. According to Public Events Director Tim Ross, that was the idea from the beginning. “The park was designed to offer something for everyone. There are amenities for all ages. Parents, grandparents, and kids love the playground. Everyone can enjoy the viewing fountains, the swings, and the overlook. And many of our older generation love the Shelton Memorial, which gets a tremendous amount of visitors because it’s such a beautiful monument and it gives such great respect to our POWs, MIAs, and veterans.” The newest monument,

the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument was installed in 2020.

The “Mayor’s Mile” riverwalk spans the riverfront from the RiverPark Center through Smothers Park all the way down to the Convention Center and hotels, giving foot traffic easy access to all the amenities downtown.

Even when there’s not a live band playing, there is music playing from outdoor speakers hidden in the landscape. O

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SWINGS OVERLOOKING THE OHIO RIVER

SLIDES AT LAZY DAYZ PLAYGROUND

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VIEWING FOUNTAIN FEATURES INCLUDING 1 CASCADE

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WATER PAD SPRAY FOUNTAINS IN THE KID’S SPLASH PARK

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

Smothers Park is named after frontiersman William Smeathers, who settled in Owensboro in 1797.

WORLD CLASS VENUESLocal Charm

With three world-class venues attracting crowds from all over the globe, Owensboro’s entertainment district is more alive than ever!

OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

Concerts, expos, conferences, community events, galas, receptions, business meetings, five-course meals and everything in between. There’s always something going on at the Owensboro Convention Center. Since the opening gala January 31, 2014, nearly 600,000 visitors have come through its doors, and the venue has hosted 1,380 events.

In addition to expos and conventions, some of country, rock and contemporary Christian music’s top entertainers have performed at the Owensboro Convention Center, including Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam, for King & Country, Casting Crowns, Black Stone Cherry and Travis Tritt.

And anytime there’s a community event, the Convention Center is a part of it. You can find preferred seating for the Owensboro Air Show and All-American Fourth of July fireworks show or enjoy live performances on the Kentucky Legend Pier during Friday After 5.

BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM

Originally founded in 1991 and re-opened in its new location in 2018, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum has baecome the world center for the preservation of the history, culture and future of bluegrass music. Museum visitors drift down the river of sound through exhibits to interact with the history of bluegrass music and the people and instruments who made it.

But it’s much more than a museum. The 447-seat Woodward Theatre and outdoor stage regularly showcase live performances by the genre’s iconic legends and brightest rising stars. Impromptu jam sessions often happen in the “pickin parlor” just inside the museum where visitors can pick up an instrument to pluck or strum along. It’s all part of the experience.

When not used for live performances, Woodward Theatre is also used for movie screenings and other community events. The Hall of Fame is a “must see” for fans in town for ROMP festival, but Owensboro residents will find many reasons to come back again and again.

PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

RIVERPARK CENTER

For more than 25 years, RiverPark Center has been the cultural hub of Owensboro and the heartbeat of the downtown entertainment district. Today, RiverPark Center entertains, inspires and educates 200,000 people annually—including 25,000 children—through nearly 400 events. Cannon Hall, the premier 1,470-seat theater, is the home to Owensboro Symphony and Owensboro Dance Theatre. The outdoor patio overlooking the Ohio River hosts a number of local events, while the 300-seat multi-purpose Jody Berry Cabaret Theatre is used for many civic, corporate, and private events.

A season at the River Park Center will feature Broadway shows, rock concerts, country music performers, eclectic dance companies, variety acts, comedians, and everything else in the arts umbrella.

Whether it’s dinner and a Broadway style show, a night of dancing or a reception under the stars, RiverPark Center is where memories are made. O

FREE RIVERFRONT FUN on the

FRIDAY AFTER 5

Fridays, May-August

FridayAfter5.com

LIVE ON THE BANKS

Saturdays, May-September

VisitOwensboro.com

SUNSET CRUISERS CLASSIC CAR CRUISE IN

First Saturday every month, April-October

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OWENSBORO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Welcome to

THE HOME OF BLUEGRASS

The music scene is very much alive in the “Big O.” Every summer, downtown Owensboro hosts Friday After 5, a free concert series offering a “mile of music” featuring regional and national rock, blues, country, and gospel bands. Tens of thousands of bluegrass and roots music fans come to ROMP festival every June. And our newest music festival, PorchFest is filling more front porches with acoustic, folk, and light rock acts every year.

Not to mention the Owensboro Symphony,

which offers a free community “Concert on the Lawn” at Kentucky Wesleyan College each August, outdoor concerts at Smothers Park, and musicals at the RiverPark Center.

Yes, music flows through Owensboro as much as the river we founded our city on. Especially bluegrass!

Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass music, was born 40 miles down the road in Rosine, Kentucky, which is why the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum is located in downtown Owensboro.

“We’re trying to be for Owensboro what the Country Music Hall of Fame is for Nashville or the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is for Cleveland,” says Chris Joslin, Director of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “Certainly bluegrass lives and thrives in many places around the world. But there is not another cultural institution dedicated solely to bluegrass music like we have here at the Hall of Fame and Museum. But it’s not enough to make a claim. You’ve got to live out that claim in really tangible

WRITTEN BY DANNY MAY // PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

OWENSBORO HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN FOR ITS BLUEGRASS, BOURBON, AND BARBECUE TRADITIONS, BUT HAS NOW STAKED ITS CLAIMS AS THE “BLUEGRASS MUSIC CAPITAL OF THE WORLD.”

ways.”

Obviously the $15 million, one-of-a-kind building that houses the Hall of Fame, Bluegrass Museum, Woodward Theatre performance hall, an outdoor stage, and meeting space is the centerpoint to Owensboro’s claim as the worldwide home of bluegrass music, but Joslin says things like ROMP festival, Bluegrass Unlimited magazine that is now published here, and the newly released TV show “My Bluegrass Story,” which was filmed here, are all evidence of living out that claim as well.

According to Mark Calitri, President and CEO of Visit Owensboro, being named the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World has had an enormous economic impact on Greater Owensboro and help improve the quality of life for all residents.

Even if you’re not a fan of bluegrass music per se, that’s something to be proud of and something we can all be a part of.

Whether you’re a “picker” who plays an instrument or a “grinner” who watches and listens, we hope you’ll enjoy all the sounds and rhythms in the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World. O

Travel and Transportation from Greater Owensboro

ANNUAL AVERAGE SALARY COST OF LIVING INDEX (BASE US)

METALS: Aleris

Century

Columbia

McElroy

Southwire

Kaiser

AUTOMOTIVE:

OMICO

The cost of living is 8.1% lower in Owensboro, KY than the US average.

Ritatsu

Toyotetsu

Daicel

GLOBAL

Kentucky

Glenmore

Perdue

PF

OWB by the NUMBERS

Whether you’re taking to the friendly skies or cruising the open road, getting to and from Owensboro is easier than ever thanks to recent transportation upgrades.

Located conveniently between Nashville, TN, to the south; Louisville and Lexington, KY, to the east; St. Louis, MO, to the west; and Chicago, IL, and Indianapolis, IN, to the north, Owensboro is a tank of gas away from fantastic travel destinations. And with an airport, a parkway, and now an interstate in Owensboro, friends and family can visit you in the ‘Boro in a snap.

OWB

At Owensboro-Daviess County Airport (OWB), travelers can have the best of both worlds: small-town feel with bigcity connections.

Owensboro’s airport offers a daily, roundtrip jet service directly to Chicago. The service through Contour Airlines is a comfortable ride on a 30-passenger Embraer 135 Regional Jet to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).

The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way. Contour is an American Airlines interline partner. That means passengers don’t have to re-check bags if they connect from a Contour to an American flight. Travelers also have the ability to ticket seamlessly from OWB through a connecting hub to global destinations.

Owensboro is the only airport in the region that offers a Chicago service, cementing Owensboro’s place as an airport of choice in the region.

I-165

The former William H. Natcher parkway was officially designated Interstate 165 in August of 2019, directly connecting Owensboro to I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. That designation was the result of a lot of hard work by community leaders in Owensboro, the state capitol, and all the way to Washington, DC.

Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Candance Castlen Brake says I-165 was an incredible win for our community. “This kind of success is what happens when everyone works together. Our local, state and federal transportation leaders and elected officials and their staffs have worked tirelessly on this. And our business community has been right there alongside them. They deserve recognition for their hard work and their dedication to making our community move forward.” O

Made In Owensboro

MIZKAN (RAGU):

Every single jar of Ragu sauce in the nation is made in Owensboro.

UNIFIRST:

Uses enough thread each year to circle the earth seven times.

OMICO PLASTICS:

Employees only work four days a week, however OMICO sells a part every 1.87 seconds, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

METALSA:

100% of all Jeep Gladiator truck frames are made at the Owensboro Metalsa Plant. They are shipped from the riverport by rail to Toledo, Ohio.

TOYOTETSU MID-AMERICA (TTMA):

Processes over 660,000 lbs. of steel products daily.

MILLIKEN:

The Milliken Hickory Plant in Owensboro produces Daran® barrier emulsion, which is used in sauce portion control cups to keep sauces fresh and free from spoilage.

GREEN RIVER DISTILLERY:

Has 288,365 barrels of bourbon located on their property, which is almost three times the number of people in Daviess County. That’s enough bourbon for 86,509,500 bottles, which is enough bottles for 26% of the entire U.S. population to have one bottle.

SUN WINDOWS:

Each year, Sun Windows converts over 4 million pounds of wood, aluminum, and glass into finished windows and doors that are installed in buildings all over the United States.

FIND YOUR PLACE AND CREATE A SENSE OF BELONGING.

LIVING IN OWENSBORO

DID YOU KNOW

The Playground for All at Horse Fork Creek Park was added in 2021. It allows children of all abilities to play alongside their peers. The playground features a poured-in-place rubber surface, accessible ramps, a glider swing, and musical instruments among other features. Other features at Horse Fork include a spray park and the largest soccer complex in western Kentucky. // Photo by Jamie Plain

DOWNTOWN LIVING

The redevelopment of downtown has brought along with it many new opportunities for upper-level living spaces. Several mixed-use buildings now being constructed include condos on the second and third floors above street-level restaurants and retail space.

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WEST END

Highway 60 is the main thoroughfare west of town to the Stanley area of the county. Parallel to the Audubon Parkway, Highway 56 winds through the Sorgho area to the gently rolling hills of West Louisville and Maple Mount.

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DOGWOOD/AZALEA & HISTORIC DISTRICT

Before Owensboro expanded to what is now Midtown and South Frederica, neighborhoods in the Parrish Avenue and Griffith Avenue area were considered the outskirts of town. In recent decades, neighborhoods have been developed along all corridors, both inside and outside the “bypass,” which is now known as US 60 Wendell Ford Expressway.

MIDTOWN SOUTH

As the city expanded, neighborhoods were developed around the Owensboro Country Club, along Old Hartford Road, eventually connecting with the 54 corridor. The heart of Midtown, known as the “Triplett Twist,” is in the midst of a massive overhaul.

EAST END & 54

The Highway 54 corridor has grown tremendously the past 10 years. Gateway Commons offers retail options, a movie theater and hotel and is still under development. Beyond 54, the busyness subsides to sprawling fields between Philpot and Whitesville, a town with a population of 550 just 13 miles from city limits. Along Highway 144, the community of Thruston boasts the Pearl Club and Yellow Creek Park.

APARTMENT COMPLEXES

CARTER/TAMARACK CORRIDOR

The Apollo area is populated with many intersecting neighborhoods that have easy access to US 60 Expressway, Parrish Avenue via Carter Road, and Frederica via Tamarack Road or Southtown Boulevard. Residents also enjoy access to the Greenbelt for strolling and biking.

BRUSHWOOD APARTMENTS

Spacious 2-bedroom apartments and 3-bedroom townhomes.

COLLYNS ESTATES

Energy efficient 2-bedroom units with fully equipped kitchens.

WESLEYAN SHAWNEE

On either side of the beautiful Kentucky Wesleyan College campus, the WesleyanShawnee area spans from Tamarack Road along Lewis Lane and beyond Scherm Road to Booth Avenue.

81 TO MCLEAN COUNTY

If sprawling front yards and wide open spaces are your ideal living condition, you’ll find plenty of both along Highway 81, which splits with Highway 56 at the roundabout west of city limits out Parrish Avenue. US 81 passes through the communities of Rome, Friendly Village and Livia on its way to Calhoun across the McLean County line.

SOUTH FREDERICA

As the lights of busy South Frederica Street fade into starlight directly south of Owensboro, communities like Pettit, Browns Valley and Utica dot Highway 431.

7 9 10

231 TO UTICA

DREAM OWENSBORO

The ultimate in comfort, amenities, the latest technology.

Owensboro Values Education

WRITTEN BY JOSH KELLY

Schools in Owensboro, Kentucky take hands-on education to a deeper level as they focus on personal connection, innovative approach and real-world experience. As early as elementary school, Owensboro students are able to take their education and apply it in real-time through different programs tailored to how the student learns best.

Through community-based partnerships, students are encouraged to be bankers, mechanics, entrepreneurs, artists, medical professionals and all-around engaged citizens in every portion of their curriculum.

Different companies throughout the city look to Owensboro schools of all levels to develop the talent of tomorrow.

INNOVATION ACADEMY/SCHOOLS

Starting as early as 6th grade, students can opt to enroll in the Owensboro Innovation Middle School and take lessons that center around advanced problemsolving techniques and peer collaboration. Located at 2631 South Griffith Ave, iMiddle is just under 5 years old, but has been making strides in its educational content.

After finishing their time at iMiddle, students can attend a local high school or move across the hall to Owensboro Innovation Academy. OIA, much like iMiddle, is focused on experiential learning in specific job fields such as nursing, engineering and computer science. In the classrooms at iMiddle, students could find typical whiteboards or a 3-D printer all depending on what the day may call for.

Faculty at both schools take heir connections with community organizations and craft a lesson like they did with Puzzle Pieces where students designed and printed

3D Christmas ornaments with their CAD modeling programs. If design is not how your student learns best, they could join one of the top 15 Cybersecurity teams and compete on the national scale, or head to the Robotics team where they can join nationally ranked machine builders.

Through all these opportunities, OIA

boasted the 2nd highest average ACT scores for the region’s public schools in 2022 and over 75% of the previous graduating class obtained college credit in the field of their choice.

FINE ARTS PROGRAMS

Several students at OIA take advantage of the other local schools in the area to enjoy Fine Arts programs like theater, dance, choir, orchestra, band and visual art.

All of our high schools have engaging arts programs that have been recognized statewide for their successes in student performance. Each year, Kentucky All-State Ensembles are comprised of numerous local instrumentalists and vocalists—even down to the elementary-level choirs. In 2022, Owensboro Public Schools Band teacher Aaron Klausing was declared a leader in instrumental music education for his work with the different levels and ensembles across the district.

When it comes to local theater, you will find there’s always a curtain opening in Owensboro. Students take theater classes preparing for annual shows and the Owensboro RiverPark Center is the

home of the Kentucky Thespian Festival, which welcomes students from all across the Commonwealth to our state-of-the-art facility to compete, learn and connect with other high school students.

Visual art in Owensboro leaps off the canvas and breaks the molds as students are pushed to create their best works in class. The works can lead them to partnerships with local galleries and other renowned Owensboro artists like Aaron Kizer.

If you’re a lover of the arts and want to see it all, each spring students present their talents on the grand stage of the RiverPark Center and their art throughout downtown all free to the community to enjoy. Karen Alward, Daviess County Public Schools Fine Arts Coordinator said that the showcase is the best way the students can exhibit their growth and their wealth of creativity throughout the year.

DUAL CREDIT ENROLLMENT PROGRAMS AT HIGH SCHOOLS

While our students have the chance to obtain an artful education, they also have the opportunity to take advantage of dual credit enrollment programs in our

PHOTO PROVIDED BY OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

high schools. With four local post-secondary institutions, high school students have a wide array of classes they are able to take while still obtaining a high school diploma.

These classes can allow them to get an early start on their general education requirements when they graduate from high school or even go as far as obtaining a completed Associate’s degree in tandem with their high school diploma.

Because of partnerships with these local colleges, students receive these college courses at a discounted tuition rate. Daviess County Public Schools says by expanding their academic offerings, they can also create pathways for students to reach their goals after high school.

This program also transcends to our Commonwealth West Healthcare Workforce Innovation Center which is set to open its doors in fall 2023. Here, Owensboro Health will be training students from more than 40 of Western Kentucky’s high schools in skills

needed as they enter the medical industry including nursing, respiratory, radiology, behavioral health and community health.

A WIDE RANGE OF POST-SECONDARY OPPORTUNITIES

Owensboro is the place to earn a degree. With two faith-based and private institutions, a highly respected community college and a satellite campus for a major university, the options for your post-secondary degree are vast.

Pivotal community partners Brescia University and Kentucky Wesleyan College are home to under 1,000 students each which creates a closely knit community and provides students to engage professionally with their professors on an individualized level. Each institution in the community allows their students to apply the lessons they’ve learned in textbooks to a real-life application. One of these partnerships can be seen in Owensboro Community and Technical College’s

Developmental Psychology classes, who have incorporated work with the local senior center into the curriculum.

Owensboro is also the home to the GO FAME program, which connects students to internships and career opportunities while obtaining their degree or certificate. The nationally recognized program is primarily focused on connecting Toyota Advanced Manufacturing Technician students and Computerized Manufacturing Machining students, presenting these students the chance to earn their Associates in Applied Science in as little as 18 months.

To top it off, students are able to earn the education while incurring little to no debt with a sponsoring company paying a minimum of 50% of the students tuition costs and hourly wage while working. In addition, to GO FAME, GO Females and GO Careers programs also exist for alternate fields of employment. O

PHOTO PROVIDED BY OWENSBORO COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE

HIGHER EDUCATION Local Schools

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

“Kids First”

PreK-High School

DCPS.org // 270-852-7000

OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

“Tradition. Education. Excellence.”

PreK-High School

owensboro.kyschools.us // 270-686-1000

OWENSBORO CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

“Faith in Education.”

Kindergarten - High School

OwensboroCatholic.org // 270-686-8896

HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

“Academic Excellence with a Biblical Foundation.”

PreK-8

HeritageChristianOnline.com // 270-685-4002

GRACE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

“Equipping Minds. Discipling Hearts.”

PreK-4

High School

GCAOwensboro.org // 270-574-9974

ST. MARY OF THE WOODS SCHOOL (WHITESVILLE)

“You belong here.”

PreK-8

StMaryWoods.com // 270-233-5253

TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL (WHITESVILLE)

High School

trinityhs.com // 270-233-5533

FOR A LIST OF DAYCARES AND PRESCHOOLS SCAN HERE:

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE

Discover “The Wesleyan Way”

3000 Frederica St. // KWC.edu // 270-926-3111

BRESCIA UNIVERSITY

Experience “The Brescia Difference”

717 Frederica St. // Brescia.edu 1-877-BRESCIA

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

OWENSBORO CAMPUS

“Come climb with us.”

4821 New Hartford Rd. // WKU.edu/Owensboro 270-684-9797

OWENSBORO COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE

“Never underestimate you!” 4800 New Hartford Rd. // Owensboro.kctcs.edu 270-686-4400

Lifelong Learning

BOOKS, MOVIES, MUSIC AND MORE

If your idea of going to the library is checking out a book from a dusty shelf, you’re due for a visit to the modern facilities of the Daviess County Public Library.

Serving 92,000 people in Owensboro and Daviess County, the library boasts nearly 200,000 books as well as 14,000 DVDs, 46,000 eBooks and much, much more.

The children’s area was recently renovated to be an enclosed, colorful space with a family bathroom. Erin Waller, Library Director, said the area has a strong play literacy element and includes a ball wall, Lite Brite wall, puppet theater, play kitchen, tool bench and LEGO table. The library offers several programs for children such as storytime, science experiments, character visits, summer reading programs, crafts and more.

But it’s not all kids’ play. If you’re in need of entertainment, the library offers

WRITTEN BY JACQUELINE JORDAN

Hoopla - a streaming service for music, audiobooks, eBooks, movies, TV shows and comics. The service is free with an active library card.

Aspiring gardeners might want to visit the Seed Library, where they can “check out” up to five seed packets per month. Of course they don’t have to return anything, just sign the seeds out in the catalog and take them home to grow.

If you’re into genealogy, DCPL is a Family Search affiliate library and hosts one of the largest local history/genealogy collections in Western Kentucky.

For families up for a learning adventure, the library offers museum passes too. The passes allow up to four family members to visit not only the Owensboro Museum of Science and History, but also any museum affiliated with the Association of Science-

Technology centers. That includes but is not limited to the Kentucky Science Center in Louisville, American Museum of Natural History in New York and National Museum of Natural History in the District of Columbia. They also offer YMCA passes, which provide individuals or families access to the facility for two weeks.

If you’re still not convinced that you need a trip to the library, here are a few more items from their non-traditional collection:

• Laptops that can be checked out and used throughout the library

• Roku streaming sticks

• Wi-fi hotspots

• Telescopes

• Maker kits for children and teens to be used in the building

Find out about programs and services on all social media outlets and dcplibrary.org. O

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Botanical Bliss

In 1993 a Master Gardener’s class in Daviess County dreamed of creating a botanical garden. In pursuit of this dream, Dr. and Mrs. William Tyler donated approximately 8.5 acres to the City of Owensboro and the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden was born.

The Garden has always boasted a beautiful display of hundreds of outstanding plant selections as well as a beautiful location for social gatherings, weddings, receptions and meetings. But in recent years, the Garden has undergone a major renovation, adding the neighboring historic WeatherBerry home and plans to construct a multi-purpose pavilion, and an overall expansion of the gardens themselves.

Pavilion brings to mind more of a picnic facility, really,” says WKBG Executive Director Laurna Strehl, “but this pavilion will be an enclosed, fulluse facility that will expand the garden in so many ways.”

FUN FACT: Famous actors Johnny Depp and Florence Henderson are originally from Owensboro. Depp recently visited his hometown and some lucky Owensboroans were able to snap a quick selfie with the actor.

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY WEDDING

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

PHOTO BY CHELSEA HOWARD BICKETT WITH THRIVE MEDIA

The pavilion, she explains, will not only be a special event and meeting center but it will offer a contingency for renters in the event of inclement weather. The Garden averages 50-60 private events such as weddings, meetings, birthday parties, memorial services, and baby showers per year.

Strehl says that her number one goal for the public space is for it to be a place Owensboroans think of when they wake up and wonder, “What am I going to do today?”

“I want everything we do, and every day at the Garden to be a special event,” she said, encouraging people to come to the Garden with no agenda.

“Pack a lunch, bring bubbles, coloring books, a blanket to sit on… it’s not a formal garden, you can get off the path and explore.” O

PHOTOS BY CHELSEA HOWARD BICKETT WITH THRIVE MEDIA

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

A Heart for Service

WRITTEN BY JOSH KELLY PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OWENSBORO TIMES

Owensboro has hundreds of churches, representing a variety of faiths. Regardless of denomination, community members rally together for the common good. This has been most notably seen city-wide through refugee resettlement.

Owensboro has long been a refugee city with residents finding their way here from the Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Myanmar and many other places. Through the Owensboro office of the International Center of Kentucky, the new Owensboroans are given aid in transitioning into their new home.

Operating since 2009, the Owensboro office does not just integrate and assimilate refugees to the city, they engage these new citizens in the community, enriching our culture.

Most recently, when nearly 200

humanitarian refugees from Afghanistan arrived in Owensboro in 2021, the Center housed them in one of our hotels. Churches and other religious groups from across Owensboro jumped into action.

Churches called on members with diverse backgrounds to help the refugees settle into their new home. From transportation to the mosque for weekly prayers to connecting the refugees with employment opportunities, education and other social services, Owensboro churches answered the call. Many churches even opened their doors to allow the new residents to cook food for the 150+ refugees who were temporarily staying in a hotel.

One of those refugees, Edris Akbari, who has been liaison between Owensboro and the Afghan community, said the community immediately welcomed him and so many

others to the area with open arms.

“[When we were in the hotel,] volunteers would come to the hotel to bring in foods, diapers for the kids, wipes and everything,” he said. “Some people are taking people to their medical appointments, teaching people how to drive. We didn’t really feel like we are in another country; it’s our country.”

Akbari said the community has been so welcoming that it even enabled a launching pad for his own business Pamir where he and friends serve authentic Afghan cuisine at the Windy Hollow Biscuit House. O

FOR A LIST OF LOCAL CHURCHES SCAN HERE:

SENIOR Living

Come enjoy the rich Senior Living life that is Owensboro! Whether you’re looking for senior living communities with a variety of activities, specific hobby groups, wellness activities, daily walks indoors or out, senior sporting events, fine arts, or life-long learning opportunities – Owensboro has it all! Have a passion for gardening and the beauty of nature? Visit Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens or the Joe Ford Nature Center, or one of our amazing senior-friendly public parks, where you can walk the grounds, take classes, or even volunteer! Love to golf? Try out one of eight surrounding golf courses! Enjoy sporting events? Join a senior athletic group through our local YMCA, Owensboro Parks and Recreation, River City Pickleball Club,

or the Daviess County Gun Club. Many of our churches have senior athletic programs, too!

Is socialization, fitness or wellness important to you? Our local Senior Center, YMCA, and Owensboro Health’s Connections program provide activities from card games, billiards, travel groups, and crafting, to fitness and fun wellness programs designed specifically to meet your needs. Is reading a favorite hobby? Visit the Daviess County Public Library to check out their extensive collections and explore your genealogy; while you’re there, sign up for one of their fantastic public events or grab seeds from the Seed Library to start a garden.

No need to worry about transportation, because we have

fantastic public transportation through Owensboro Transit, Audubon Area Community Services, the local Senior Center, Owensboro Health’s Connections program, as well as our Lyft and various cab and rise sharing services.

Not quite ready to retire? There are several senior employment programs available to you. You can reach out to Audubon Area Community Services or the Green River Area Development district to learn more!

Whether you’re looking for social activities, wellness opportunities, to take in nature or the arts, or make memories with your children and grandchildren, Owensboro will not disappoint! O

WRITTEN BY DANA PEVELER // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

Nonprofits in Owensboro

WRITTEN BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON PHOTOS COURTESY OF WENDELL FOSTER

The depth of nonprofits in Owensboro truly shows how much our community cares and takes care of its people. Our community works together for the common good, transforming shared beliefs and hopes into action. This work gives shape to our boldest dreams, highest ideals, and noblest causes.

One of the longest standing examples of this is Wendell Foster.

With more than 350 “Difference Makers” on staff, Wendell Foster takes its impact as an economic driver in the region seriously.

Doug Hoyt, CEO of Wendell Foster said the organization has been a cornerstone for disability support services in the Owensboro

community for three-quarters of a century.

“75 years ago, Wendell and Edith Foster opened their home and dedicated their lives to serving families of children with disabilities in the Owensboro area,” he said. “Today, we are still dedicated to the Fosters’ mission of empowering people with disabilities by promoting awareness, acceptance and inclusivity for those with disabilities.”

In 2021, Wendell Foster was voted the “Best Place to Work” Gold Winner in the Best of Owensboro Living Awards. Wendell Foster’s core values reflect the selfless lifestyle of its founders, Edith and Wendell Foster.

The need for disability services in Owensboro isn’t going away; instead, it’s growing. Now more than ever, Wendell Foster plays an essential role in providing personalized care for people with disabilities. We value our contribution to the community as the region’s resource for disability

services.

Wendell Foster strives to be the premier provider of rehabilitative, communitybased, and residential services for children and adults with disabilities in the Owensboro area and beyond.

In 2022, they provided more than 75,000 services, including onsite and communitybased residential housing, physical, speech, and occupational therapies, assistive technology, a community transportation program, day training, and community programming.

“We hope to continue this impact for the next 75 years as we constantly improve and advance the critical services we provide to those with disabilities,” Hoyt said.

Wendell Foster, a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is a multi-service agency located in the heart of Owensboro, Kentucky. Each year, Wendell Foster serves over 2,000 people across 34 counties in Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana. O

Aid the Homeless

American Red Cross

Beverly’s Hearty Slice

Boulware Mission

Borrowed Hearts

CareNet Owensboro

CASA of Ohio Valley

Cliff Hagan Girls & Boys Club

Daniel Pitino Shelter

Dismas Charities

Dream Riders of Kentucky

Flamingos for Amber, Inc.

Fresh Start for Women

Friends of Sinners

Girls Incorporated

Goodfellows Club

Green River Area Down Syndrome

Association - GRADSA

Habitat for Humanity of Owensboro - Daviess County

H.L. Neblett Community Center

Help Office of Owensboro

Homeless Council of the Ohio Valley

Hospice of Western KY

International Center of Western KY

Mary Kendall Home

Matthew 25 Aids Service

MentorKids Kentucky

New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support

Services

Oasis Shelter

Opportunity Center

Owensboro Chapter of the NAACP

Owensboro Lions Club

Owensboro Regional Suicide Prevention

Coalition

Puzzle Pieces

Right to Life of Owensboro

Senior Community Center

St. Benedicts Homeless Shelter

St. Joseph’s Peace Mission for Children

Sunrise Children’s Services

The Children’s Advocacy Center

The Salvation Army

United Way of Ohio Valley

Wendell Foster

Here are just some of the local nonprofits that you can become involved in:

CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY WEDDING

Chamber Young Professionals (CYP), is part of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce that provides professionals under the age of 40 an opportunity to network and become more involved in their community. It offers a fresh energy and a new perspective, according to past CYP chair Dave Kirk.

Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) provides a great opportunity for professionals 40 years and younger to network and educate themselves on important issues facing the Greater Owensboro area. Through community

service projects, social events, corporate tours and professional development, CYP members develop strong ties in the Owensboro community. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce encourages members to become more involved throughout the community and to serve as future leaders.

CYP Membership is $50 per year if you or your employer is a Chamber member and $100 per year if you or your employer is a non-Chamber member. (Many employers will cover this fee.)

Contact cyp@owensboro.com to join now! O

“Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.”

– Marian Wright Edelman

I believe in this statement. Being the philanthropy chair allows me to give back to the community and meet individuals I wouldn’t have met otherwise. I have a passion for seeing others succeed and philanthropy is a way of doing that.

CYP is great way to meet other young professionals who want to see the City of Owensboro reach its full potential. It allows us to build relationships and collaborate on many projects.

KEITH COTTONER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

H.L. NEBLETT COMMUNITY CENTER

OWENSBORO TRANSIT SYSTEM

Except for getting used to some one-way streets here and there, newcomers find Owensboro pretty easy to navigate. Frederica Street is the main north-south thoroughfare through town. Parrish Avenue, which turns into Highway 54, intersects the city east to west. No matter where you’re headed, getting around Owensboro is easy with Owensboro Public Transit bus routes. (See transit.owensboro.org for a detailed map and listing of stops.) When you’re enjoying the riverfront, the Trolley is a free and fun way to discover downtown. Here’s a closer look at some of Owensboro’s public transportation options.

Downtown Trolley

The Trolley is a FUN and carefree way to explore downtown Owensboro! The Trolley’s Route around downtown Owensboro takes approximately 20 minutes.

Look for Trolley Stop Signs at the following locations:

• Owensboro Convention Center

• Holiday Inn Riverfront

• Walnut and 3rd

• 3rd and Locust

• 3rd and Frederica

• 3rd and St. Ann

• 3rd and Daviess

• 2nd and Crittenden

• 2nd and Daviess

• 2nd and Allen

• 2nd and St. Ann

• 2nd and St. Elizabeth

• Hampton Inn & Suites

Service Hours from April - October

Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. (break from 7:20 p.m. – 8 p.m.)

Service Hours from November - March

Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

WHY RIDE THE TROLLEY?

» No cost to ride

» No need to worry about parking

» Unique experience

» Children love the trolley!

» Get information and facts about Owensboro and downtown from your driver.

» Not sure where to go or what to do?

Just ask your Trolley driver for ideas!

» The Trolley SAVES YOU GAS!

» A quick ride to the beautiful Riverfront and Smothers Park

» Accessible transportation

Owensboro offers several great options for exploring our city.

city buses

Service Hours:

Monday - Friday 6 a.m. – 7:35 p.m.

Saturday 7:45 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Sunday Closed

OTS does not operate on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day. OTS operates from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on: Martin Luther King’s Birthday, Good Friday, Day after Thanksgiving

Visit www.transit.owensboro.org to see a detailed map of all bus stops and routes.

Ridesharing

*Day Pass: Unlimited rides for one day.

*Monthly Pass: Unlimited rides for one month.

*Transfers are given out only downtown. Transfers are valid only when boarding at the Downtown Transfer Point (OTS Office).

Please have exact change or pass ready when boarding the bus. OTS drivers carry no change or tokens. Passengers may bring on board only the number of packages or items they can carry in one trip. OTS Prohibits the following: Profanity, Solicitation, Weapons, Use of Alcohol or Tobacco Products. Driver has the right to refuse service.

For fans of ridesharing apps, Lyft & Uber offer service in the ’boro as well. Download the apps on your mobile phone, create an account and enjoy the ride. O

ROAD TRIPS One Tank

EVANSVILLE - 1 HOUR

Folks from Owensboro usually go to Evansville, Indiana to shop, eat out, go to a concert or take the kids to the zoo. However, Evansville also has lots of other adventures and attractions you can’t find in Owensboro, such as “Vertical eXcape” indoor rock climbing gym.

CMOE (Children’s Museum of Evansville) hosts four main galleries, plus a multimedia theater.

Evansville Otters baseball at historic Bosse Field is a lot of fun as well.

BOWLING GREEN - 1 HOUR

Speaking of baseball, the Bowling Green Hotrods are the next closest ball club, and they are actually a farm team for the Tampa Bay Rays. Beech Bend Park is definitely worth checking out. It has been given a complete overhaul the last 10 years, and now has a waterpark, a steel roller coaster, and an overall fresh look and feel. The speedway and campground next door are still very popular too.

Ride Kentucky’s only underground boat tour at Lost River Cave! Stretch your legs on nearly two miles of easy walking trails, one of which leads to the natural spring. Kids can enjoy a butterfly habitat, geocaching, bird bingo, and the Nature Trading Post where they can trade outdoor finds for prizes.

If you’ve got any train buffs in the family, the Historic RailPark and Train Museum is not far from Beech Bend Park. And of course, the National Corvette Museum is really the premier attraction in Bowling Green, especially seeing the Corvettes that were recovered from the sinkhole a few years ago. Pretty amazing!

On the way back from Bowling Green, stop off at Chaney’s Dairy Barn for some ice cream. It’s a pretty, country drive off I-165 and back, but it’s worth the time.

LOUISVILLE - 2 HOURS

Just two hours upriver from Owensboro, Louisville makes a perfect weekend getaway. The Louisville Zoo, Kentucky Kingdom & Thunder Bay amusement park and the Louisville Slugger Museum are popular attractions. The beautiful riverfront plays host to annual festivals like Forecastle music & art festival and Thunder Over Louisville fireworks display, as well as Louisville Slugger field, where the Louisville Bats (Triple A affiliate of the Cincinnatti Reds). Nearby, Louisville FC (professional USL soccer) plays at Lynn Family Stadium.

NASHVILLE - 2 HOURS

A quick, two-hour drive, Nashville, Tennessee, is an excellent getaway for the country music lover. Experience the creative energy of Nashville by starting your visit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. And a trip to Nashville isn’t complete without stopping by the Grand Ole Opry House or taking a tour of the legendary Ryman Auditorium. Not a big fan of country? Nashville has no lack of attractions, including The Parthenon at Centennial Park, Adventure Science Center, and SoundWaves, America’s first upscale, indoor/ outdoor resort water attraction at Gaylord Opryland Resort.

LEXINGTON3 HOURS

Located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Lexington takes its rightful place as the Horse Capital of the World with pride. But beyond the beautiful horse farms, Lexington is also

known for bourbon, street art, nightlife, food, shopping, architecture, history, craft beer, local coffee shops, music and friendly people. As University of Kentucky fans know, Lexington is also the home of the Wildcats and Rupp Arena.

CINCINNATI - 3.5 HOURS

Resting along the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati offers both urban energy and southern charm. Cincinnati boasts fantastic shopping, from upscale malls to funky little boutiques. Be inspired at the National Underground Freedom Center, stroll through the Cincinnati Zoo, or take a ride on a wooden roller coaster at Kings Island. Right across the river, back in the Bluegrass State, you can experience the Newport Aquarium, which features thousands of creatures from around the world. You can play with penguins, walk inches above sharks and see animals and fish being fed.

ST. LOUIS - 3 HOURS

A quick family getaway, St. Louis offers a lot of fun for a long weekend. Try the St. Louis Zoo, which has free admission all year long, catch a Cardinals baseball game, visit the City Museum or the Magic House and of course, you have to visit the St. Louis Arch. You can even fly from the OwensboroDaviess County Regional Airport for as low as $29 each way.

INDIANAPOLIS - 3 HOURS

As the home of the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy is definitely a sports town. But did you know it’s also the home of the largest children’s museum in the world? The Indianapolis Children’s Museum spans 500,000 square feet with exhibits and activities that are fun and interesting for the entire family as they explore the physical and natural sciences, history, world cultures and the arts through exciting interactive exhibits on five floors. Families will discover some of the most rare dinosaur fossils in the world and see what it’s like to live and work in space. There’s also a theater with children’s plays and live entertainment. O

&LEISURE RECREATION

DID YOU KNOW

The International Bar-B-Q Festival began in 1978 and has traditionally been held on the second full weekend in May each year. The cooking teams at the festival prepared as much as ten tons of mutton, 3,500 chickens, and many gallons of burgoo and serve to the general public. Today, the festival has been re-imagined as BBQ & Barrels, which offers Owensboro the same feel as the traditional festival with church cook teams and a family-friendly carnival, but also adds bourbon, which is quickly becoming a pillar of Owensboro’s identity. In 2023, 36 distilleries from across the Commonwealth came for the fresh take on the decades old festival.

// Photo by Marcus Velez

FESTIVALS

THROUGH SLEET’S EYES FESTIVAL

February

Through art and education, the Through Sleet’s Eyes Festival honors the life and legacy of Moneta Sleet, Jr. An Owensboro native, Sleet was the first black American to win the Pulitzer Prize in journalism.

BBQ & BARRELS

Second

Weekend in May

A culmination of 45 years of a cultural tradition in Owensboro and Daviess County, this festival is the celebration of our past, our present, and our future, bringing together two of Owensboro’s greatest traditions – authentic, unparalleled Owensboro barbecue and historic Kentucky bourbon. You can expect a backyard BBQ cookoff, church cooking teams, live music, carnival rides, and more barbecue vendors than you have ever seen in downtown Owensboroall open to the general public! The Owensboro Convention Center is home to the “Barrels,” offering ticketed bourbon tastings, food pairings, and educational classes.

FRIDAY AFTER 5

Fridays from late May through early September

Owensboro’s FREE live music festival plays on

the riverfront from Memorial Day to Labor Day every summer. Main stage bands perform on the BB&T Plaza at RiverPark Center; acoustic entertainment takes place in the RiverPark Courtyard; Gospel on the River performs in Cannon Hall; local bands perform on the Smothers Park Overlook Stage and Party on the Pier; weekly Street Fairs line the riverfront. It’s “Where The Weekend Begins” in Owensboro!

PORCHFEST

Early June

PorchFest celebrates community togetherness and music. This event is free and open to the public and suitable for all ages. Music lovers stroll down Griffith Avenue to enjoy multiple acts on front porch “stages”. Bring your own seats, find your spot, sit and enjoy. Then simply pick up your chairs and take a short walk to the next welcoming stage!

ROMP

Late June

The annual ROMP Festival, the 4-day bluegrass and Americana music fest held at Yellow Creek Park, is best known for its stellar line-ups, friendly camping atmosphere and easy access

to artists. Original arts and crafts, farm-to-table healthy food vendors and professionally-led children’s activities (including a spray park and playgrounds) endear audiences to ROMP.

DAZZLING DAYLILY FESTIVAL

Late June

The Dazzling Daylily Festival brings beautiful blooms, plus multiple activities for everyone to enjoy! Balloons Over the Garden will return as well. Check the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden’s website for a complete schedule.

ALL-AMERICAN FOURTH OF JULY

July 4th

Join us in Downtown Owensboro for an incredible display of fireworks in recognition of our nation’s independence, including a special performance by the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra!

DUST BOWL

July

A long-standing annual outdoor basketball tournament for the whole community to enjoy. Owensboro’s best and bravest ballers in different age groups take the court at Kendall-Perkins Park each July.

PORCHFEST

PHOTO BY DREAMCOPY PHOTOGRAPHY

DAVIESS COUNTY LION’S CLUB FAIR

Late July

From truck and tractor pulls to your favorite carnival attractions and treats, the Daviess County Lion’s Club Fair is a time-honored tradition. Families can explore the latest farm machinery, view vintage tractors, and see the county’s biggest and best crops. This community event showcases the best of Daviess County agriculture and an appreciation for local farming.

MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL

Third Saturday in August

A unique blending of cultures come together to educate the public through dancing, music, ethnic fashions, food, arts and more. A celebration of diversity on the First Presbyterian Church front lawn.

SYMPHONY STROLL

Seasonal

Symphony Stroll began in the fall of 2020 and features various ensembles throughout downtown Owensboro’s Riverfront. Attendees are encouraged to stroll downtown, enjoy the

shops and restaurants and hear delightful performances along the way. For more information visit OwensboroSymphony.org.

CONCERT ON THE LAWN

Late August

Concert on the Lawn is a more than 30-year tradition for the Owensboro Symphony and occurs in late August. Hosted on the lawn at Kentucky Wesleyan College, this is opportunity for anyone to enjoy a free concert! For more information visit OwensboroSymphony.org

DAVIESS COUNTY PIONEER DAYS

September

Formerly “Patriot Days,” Daviess County Pioneer Days is held at the Pioneer Village in Yellow Creek Park. This event features living history exhibits and demonstrations like woodworking, basket weaving, school house activities, storytelling, colonial games, scavenger hunt, prizes and refreshments.

OWENSBORO AIR SHOW

September/October

The skies above Owensboro buzz every fall with the sounds of

vintage aircraft, military war birds, and jets as the annual Owensboro Air Show takes to the skies. Enjoy a static display of aircraft and a glimpse of some amazing aerial demonstrations on Friday night at the Owensboro Regional Airport. Then head downtown on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the amazing talents of some of the best pilots in the world, as they push the limits and showcase the best in aviation technology and history.

MONSTERS ON THE OHIO October

This is the fastest-growing catfishing tournament in the United States. Come down to the weigh-in at beautiful English Park in Owensboro to see some of the best anglers in the country weigh their monster catches in hopes of beating the Kentucky State Record for Bluecats!

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK

Late November – early January

Giant elves, trees, toys and figures, not to mention Santa in his sleigh, line the half-mile walking path at Legion Park in the heart of Owensboro.

CHRISTMAS AT PANTHER CREEK

Late November – early January

An outdoor driving lighted tour with 400,000-plus lights winding through Panther Creek Park. $5 charge per

carload. Wagon rides through the park are also available.

OWENSBORO CHRISTMAS PARADE

November – early December

The annual Owensboro Christmas Parade is “where Kentucky starts Christmas.” It’s the largest Christmas parade in Kentucky and the tri-state area. Each year has a central theme and features marching bands, lighted floats, an historic calliope, and an appearance by St. Nick himself.

HOLIDAY STROLL

First Saturday of December

Stroll the downtown streets to get in the holiday spirit. Strolling carolers, storefront decorations, and indoor performers will make this evening a reminder of the good old days of being downtown at Christmas.

HOLIDAY FOREST FESTIVAL OF TREES

Mid November - December

More than a dozen monumental Christmas trees, designed and decorated by area artists, floral designers and cultural organizations, interpret the current exhibition at the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art. O

information.

*All festival information obtained from visitowensboro.com. Please check their website for up-to-date

BBQ & BARRELS // PHOTO BY MARCUS VELEZ

ENJOY DOWNTOWN OWENSBORO’S GROWING SCENE

Downtown Owensboro has seen a revitalization over recent years. While Smothers Park may be the jewel for family fun, local businesses near the riverfront provide a destination for a night out. Whether you’re ready for date night, drinks with the girls or live music, downtown has something for you.

The Miller House (301 E 5th St.), opened in a 1905 historic home in 2009 by Larry and Jeanne Kirk, offers a unique dining atmosphere and a seasonal menu. For a real taste of Kentucky, venture to the establishment’s basement, known as Spirits Lounge and try one (or more!) of the 700 bourbons they have to offer.

SPIRITS LOUNGE // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

SIP // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

FUN FACT: Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin was inspired by the life of Josiah Henson, an abolitionist and minister from Daviess County.

WRITTEN BY JACQUELINE RUSSELL

The Bourbon Review, a popular quarterly magazine that covers the ins and outs of bourbon, has repeatedly named the Miller House among the top bourbon bars in America. It was also named a Top 10 Destination Whisky Bar with over 100 Whiskeys by the Whisky Advocate and one of the Top 40 Whisky Bars in America.

Feeling more into wine than bourbon? Head over to SIP Wine Room on Veteran’s Boulevard. SIP offers a variety of wine station machines that chill and aerate the wine and then pour it for you. You can even grab a cocktail or beer from the ever-changing menu and pair it with an assortment of charcuterie options. And while the interior of this charming bar feels up-scale and welcoming, you can’t beat the views of the river from the outdoor patio.

Round out a night downtown with some live music in Owesboro’s premiere venue, Brasher’s Little Nashville, on Second Street. Opened by local musician Andy Brasher, the traditional bar offers a music set-up to rival Nashville with professional sound. The stage plays host to local and touring musicians, open mic and karaoke, and even the occasional dueling piano show.

Whatever you’re looking for, downtown Owensboro’s growing scene has something for you! O

FOR A LIST OF MORE BARS AND PUBS SCAN HERE:

BRASHER’S LIL’ NASHVILLE // PHOTO BY DANNY BEELER (HEART OF THE CITY DESIGN)

ENTERTAINMENT AROUND

TOWN

Owensboro’s entertainment options extend beyond downtown. Here are a few local favorites:

GREEN RIVER DISTILLERY TOURS

10 Distillery Rd. | 270-691-9001

When O.Z. Tyler bought the former Medley Distillery in 2014, they refurbished the dilapidated distillery into what has become the fourth largest independent bourbon distillery and the 11th stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. Recently renamed Green River Distilling Company, the distillery offers tours Monday through Saturday which includes a tasting and ends with a

stroll through the gift shop. With an annual capacity now exceeding 90,000 barrels, a tour of Green River Distilling covers every aspect of whiskey production, from grain to mash to beer to distillate to barrels of whiskey.

Visit GreenRiverDistilling.com for more information.

ESCAPE TODAY

824 West 2nd Street | 270-240-4216

With escape rooms, axe throwing, an arcade and more, Escape Today is “Owensboro’s #1 destination for fun.”

The founders strive to constantly add new entertainment opportunities that thrive on smiles, laughter and cheers. Escape Today is perfect for walk-ins, leagues, private parties and team building events.

Visit escapeowensboro.com for more information.

ENJOYING PUBLIC ARTS

THEATRE WORK SHOP OF OWENSBORO

Trinity Centre - 407 W. Fifth St. TWO Empress Theatre - 418 Frederica St 270-683-5333

TWO operates two historic theatres in downtown Owensboro, producing an eclectic season of community theatre, featuring contemporary and classic plays and musicals while maintaining a busy schedule of concerts, art exhibits, classes and workshops. The TWO education program has grown to include frequent youth shows, drama clubs and camps, TWO in the schools, and more.

Find schedules and more information at theatreworkshop.org.

PHOTO BY WONDER BOY MEDIA

OWENSBO RO MUSEUM OF FINE ART

901 Frederica St. | 270-685-3181

The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art presents traveling exhibitions from major museums, galleries and private collections and rotating exhibitions from the permanent collection. OMFA also houses a Regional Art Market that offers works for sale by artists and craftsmen from Kentucky and surrounding states. Annual festivals include the Holiday Forest Festival of Trees, Bronze Buffalo Festival and Art by the Stars Gala! ARTLAND, an interactive art studio, KALEIDOSCOPE KAVE, a computerized digital gallery and the Young at Art Gallery offer hands-on educational activities for children. Read more at omfa.us.

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY

211 East Second St. | 270-684-0661

Each season, The Owensboro Symphony offers an inspiring Subscription Series in Owensboro’s RiverPark Center. In addition, the Symphony presents free summer outdoor concerts and Chamber Orchestra performances in area churches. Read more at theoso.com

RIVERARTES

RIVERARTES is a project organized by the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, designed to acquire a collection of public art for the City of Owensboro to meet placemaking efforts. Monumental works of outdoor art in bronze, stone, aluminum, steel and glass, comprise the collection of works by internationally recognized sculptors have been installed throughout the downtown area.

DOWNTOWN MURALS

The blue Owensboro mural on the side of the Convention and Visitors Bureau building is perfect for selfies. Just across from it is the Kentucky Mirror Mosaic, which received a facelift in 2021. An anti-violence mural can be found at Third and Allen Street, which was commissioned by a local nonprofit. And a mural to celebrate Black history can be found at Kendall Perkins Park.

LOCAL FAVORITE EVENTS

OWENSBORO LIP SYNC BATTLE

January

A night of epic lip sync performances by local businesses and organizations, Owensboro Lip Sync Battle is a community favorite! This event serves as the primary fundraiser for Puzzle Pieces, a local nonprofit that serves individuals with intellectual disabilities.

WENDELL FOSTER HALF MARATHON

March

This marathon offers a flat and fast route of Owensboro, benefitting Wendell Foster, a nonprofit that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The 13.1 and 3.1-mile race starts and finishes on the riverfront by beautiful Smothers Park.

ATHENA AWARD LUNCHEON

April

Presented by Girls Inc. to an individual in our community who has achieved excellence in business or a profession, who has served

the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in developing their leadership potential.

BARK IN STYLE

April

A unique fashion show where community members model the latest styles and trends from local shops and boutiques accompanied on the runway by an adoptable dog from Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky ( SparKy), a grassroots non-profit organization.

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

first Thursday of May

Local community members gather on the lawn of the Daviess County Courthouse for prayer and worship.

DRAG BINGO

June

This is not your ordinary bingo night! This night of fun with The Divas benefits New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services.

BOILIN’ IN THE BORO

July

Enjoy a delicious low country boil and help make wishes come true for local children with critical illnesses through this annual fundraiser for Make-a-Wish.

DANCING WITH OUR STARS

August

Local celebrities will partner with local dancers to perform one routine in competition for the mirror-ball trophy — all to benefit Boulware Mission! The evening includes a sit-down dinner, competition, and open dancing.

EMERGENCY SERVICES GALA

August

The Annual Emergency Services Gala is a celebration for the Owensboro-Daviess County Region to honor the emergency services that help keep the community safe, healthy, and secure.

MENTORKIDS KENTUCKY RUGGED RACE

August

This Tough er style event challenges racers as they tackle the 5K run with 26 obstacles. From beginners to elites, everyone is welcome to join in support of MentorKids, which supports kids ages 6-14 from single-parent and non-traditional households.

EMPTY BOWLS

October

Empty Bowls mission is to help organizations fight hunger. At their annual event, attendees select a handcrafted ceramic bowl made by local artisans and fill it with soups made by local chefs.

SHOP OWENSBORO

November

A full week of supporting local businesses, powered by Independence Bank in partnership with the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

NUTCRACKER

December

The Nutcracker is an Owensboro holiday tradition with sell-out performances since 1993. Owensboro Dance Theatre’s original version is unlike any other, with dance forms including: ballet, jazz, tap, and hip hop.

REINDEER RUN

December

A family-fun event open to runners and walkers of all types hosted by Care Net, a nonprofit that offers help to anyone who finds themselves in an unplanned pregnancy. O

AGRI-TAINMENT

REID’S ORCHARD

4818 HWY 144 | 270-685-2444

This family-owned orchard offers so much more than just fruit! Reidland Play area features a sunflower, soybean, and corn maze, the “Apple Express” train ride, inflatables, jump pad, duck races, Bella’s Barnyard, racers and sliders, and much more.

TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET

9255 US HWY 431 & 4399 Springhill Dr. Ste. A 270-733-2222

Trunnell’s Farm Market and Family Fun Acre features 30+ attractions to keep active toddlers happy, school-aged youngsters intrigued and adults amazed. Activities including a giant corn maze, pumpkin patch, wagon rides, jumping pillow and more.

FUN FACT: Owensboro is home to the oldest synagogue this side of the Allegheny Mountains.

REIDLAND PLAY AREA // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

LEISURE & RECREATION

Owensboro Regional Farmers Market

WRITTEN BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON //

Owensboro, Kentucky is known for many things, including its rich history, beautiful riverfront, and delicious barbecue. But one of its hidden gems is the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market, a local treasure that brings fresh produce, handmade crafts, and community spirit to the heart of the city.

PHOTOS BY JAMIE PLAIN

Azlin Flener, owner of The Bee’s Knees Bakery + Goods, is just one of many vendors who sets up shop weekly at the market.

She views the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market as more than just a place to shop.

“It’s a community gathering spot where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to enjoy the best that Owensboro has to offer,” she said. “The market provides a venue for local farmers and small businesses to sell their products directly to consumers, fostering a strong sense of community and supporting the local economy.”

The market features a wide variety of vendors, including farmers, bakers, artisans, and more. Visitors can find fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade

jams and jellies, artisan breads and cheeses, handmade crafts, and much more.

Flener said the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market is also a place to learn and grow.

“The market offers educational opportunities for both children and adults, including cooking demonstrations, gardening workshops, and more,” she said. “Visitors can learn about the benefits of eating locally grown produce, the importance of supporting small businesses, and the value of sustainable agriculture.”

But perhaps the most valuable aspect of the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market is the connections that it creates.

“The market is a place to connect with neighbors, meet new friends, and

build relationships. It’s a place where people from all walks of life can come together and celebrate the joys of food, community, and local culture,” Flener said. “I grew up loving farmer’s markets and would visit them in cities when I traveled. Once I started my own business, I knew I wanted to be a part of the market and share my baked goods with more people in the community. As a home baker, I’m not as well known as others with a store front. Setting up at the market gives me the opportunity to meet more people in our community and form relationships.”

The Owensboro Regional Farmers Market, located at 1205 Triplett Street, is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May through October. O

LOCAL

Dining

BEN SKIADIS

Growing up in the Restaurant Business

WRITTEN BY LAURA MURPHY // PHOTOS BY JAMIE PLAIN

Ben Skiadas is no stranger to the restaurant industry. His parents opened the Famous Bistro when he was just 9 years old and since then, Skiadas says there is no place he would rather be than in an industry of creativity and community.

After moving away for college, Skiadas returned home to Owensboro.

“I moved away and traveled quite a bit. I decided I wanted to come back home, not just because it was home, but because I saw a great opportunity here,” he said. “I wanted to continue and grow a legacy.”

Ten years ago, when Skiadas opened Lure Seafood and Grille, he never could have imagined the opportunities to connect, serve and give back that would transpire.

“It’s fun to be in a growing community – to make a difference and feel like I’m part of giving back,” he said. “In this community, I’ve been able to open a food truck, a food truck park and a restaurant.”

He can remember when he was leaving for college and his only goal was to be in the restaurant business one day.

“I grew up working around this from a very young age. I was obsessed with the food and beverage culture – I read about it, watched it, and would think of creative ideas with it,” Skiadas said.

When his parents told him he had to go to college, Skiadas chose to study theater, but continued to work in the food service business while he was in school.

All these years later, he can see how strong his passion for the industry has grown.

“I love the creatives in my community. Being in the downtown corridor, I see a lot of new faces and travelers. I get to see a lot of familiar faces, too. It’s a beautiful balance of both things.”

Apart from his passion for food and beverage, Skiadas acknowledges that our tight knit community, that loves to support small businesses and give back, is something special.

“It feels like I’m working with people who give back because it’s the right thing to do,” he said. “They operate with the mentality that when you’re blessed, you give blessings. They do not just talk about it, they act on it.”

Skiadas has learned, after all his travels, that there is truly “no place like home.”

“In this community we are big enough that people like me can push the envelope a bit and help people grow culturally. We are small enough that the community is tight – we help take care of our community here,” Skiadas said. O

Local Dining with a Family Touch

WRITTEN BY JOHN KIRKPATRICK PHOTOS BY JAMIE PLAIN

Brothers and locally renowned chefs Matt and Dennis Weafer have cooked in kitchens all over Owensboro. After years of hard work, the two decided to venture out and open their own restaurants.

Dennis owns Fetta Pizza, while Matt owns Niko’s Bakery and Cafe. However, their latest venture is Sassafras, a Kentucky-themed restaurant dishing out grandma’s cooking with an elevated twist.

Niko’s Bakery

The Skiadis family – who owns Niko’s Italian Cuisine on KY-54 – first hired Matt to open Niko’s Bakery, selling it to him shortly after. Matt and his wife, Jessica, now own the bakery, which boasts a Europeanstyle with everything crafted from scratch.

The bakery features a large assortment of desserts, breads, and meats roasted inhouse for specialty sandwiches. As with the other establishments, they source as many local ingredients as possible and decorate the walls with local art.

“I’ve always worked in restaurants,” Matt said. “I obtained an English degree,

but decided to stay in restaurants. It’s where I’ve fit in and done well.”

Niko’s Bakery also offers catering services, several varieties of wholesale bread, and locally-roasted coffee.

“I haven’t always been a baker. I’ve spent most of my time as head chef in casual or fine dining,” he said. “Baking is the most challenging, but I love how I can constantly offer something new and different.”

Sassafras

The brothers had worked together in various kitchens for several years but always wanted to partner on their own location. With Sassafras, their focus was

tapping into the food they ate growing up in the area and adding a fine dining element.

“It’s been a challenge since we both own our own restaurants, but we have a great team, staff, and general manager who keep everything going,” Matt said. “We have an awesome team in the kitchen. We’ve taken what we consider Owensboro food and put our own twist on it.”

After arriving at their definition of Owensboro food, they knew they didn’t have to look very far for locally-sourced meat, produce, and ingredients.

“We source all of our meats from Hillview Farms and use local produce when possible,” Matt said. “We built our ingredients list with items indigenous to the region. For instance, we use sunflower

DISCOVER THE TWO BROTHERS BEHIND THREE OF OWENSBORO’S BEST LOCAL RESTAURANTS

instead of olive oil and lean on sorghum because of its cultural relevance.”

Dennis said he and his brother take pride in serving others, with the ultimate goal of making lives a little better with good food, drinks, and hospitality.

“It’s been fun – Matt and I working together,” Dennis said. “We’ve talked about it for a long time. We’ve assembled a great team, and it’s going well.”

Dennis added that they also draw inspiration from the food they ate as kids at BBQs and church picnics.

“Think upscale church picnic,” he said. “Barbecue redefined and elevated – classic dishes we grew up on. We also change the menu four times a year with the seasons.”

The restaurant also features a craft cocktail menu, a unique wine selection, and an assortment of Kentucky-brewed beers. Matt said they took extra steps to ensure the bar creates a unique experience.

“It means a lot to us to represent what we grew up with, and we’re enjoying every minute of it,” Matt said. “It hasn’t been easy,

but we’re very proud of what we are able to put out. We love the response we’re getting from the community and how they’re embracing the story and getting behind what we’re doing.”

Fetta Pizza

Situated at the heart of downtown on Frederica Street, Dennis’s Fetta Pizza specializes in handtossed pizza. Like Sassafras, they locally source as many ingredients as possible, chopping fresh vegetables and proteins in-house.

Dennis loves Fetta’s location, which is close to English Park, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, and more.

“Being downtown is great – there is always something going on, and we couldn’t be happier to be a part of that,” he said. “We have locals that come downtown to enjoy the park and all the amenities. It’s also great seeing people from all over the world and entertaining guests on our patio.”

In addition to specialty pizza, Fetta serves sandwiches and appetizers and stocks a full bar.

“I was born and raised in Owensboro and love it here,” Dennis said. “I always used to say when I retired, I was going to open a pizza shop – it just came sooner, and it’s been a dream come true.” O

Owensboro’s premier private dining facility offers an oasis for food, beverage, and entertainment

During the spring of 2022, Bill Hughes purchased the Campbell Club to return the nearly centuryand-a-half-old building to a private dining facility. He’s leaned on several area artists to help him breathe life into the Victorian home to create the Cupola Club –Owensboro’s premiere private dining facility.

Craftily named after the building’s iconic bell tower that once provided a picturesque view of the Ohio River, the restaurant “offers an oasis for people who love

THE CUPOLA CLUB

WRITTEN BY JOHN KIRKPATRICK // PHOTOS BY JAMIE PLAIN

food, beverage, and entertainment,” Hughes says.

“It’s 1959 meets 2023,” Hughes said. “In evolving with society, our decor and dress code is more relaxed than in years past. The remodel has exceeded expectations, and we are uncovering nooks and crannies that invite even more ideas for the facility.”

This is Hughes’s second tour of duty at the location, spending 19891997 there as the chef of the Campbell Club. He spent ten years before opening the Cupola Club owning and operating Bill’s Restaurant just down the road.

Owensboro is no stranger to Hughes’s take on fine dining, offering difficult-to-find food at a reasonable price. Maybe it’s the fresh Triggerfish from Brazil or the Iberico plank from Spain, or perhaps it’s Hughes’s warm and welcoming personality that has membership at an all-time high and constantly growing.

“It’s good to be here,” he said.

“We have a good thing going with an amazing staff. This is a place for people to come and have fun and eat good food with like-minded people.”

Hughes added Samm Jackson as his sous chef, who brings many new menu ideas. He also leans on Sherry Garrety as the dining room manager, who actually worked with him during his first stint at the venue.

Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m., members can peruse a menu chock-full of steaks, chicken, seafood, burgers, calzones, hot browns, meat pies, and more. The menu will also boast soup and salad specials for lunch and a substantial wine selection.

“The world is so ‘small’ now that we can be creative in what we offer— we can source products from all over the world,” Hughes said. “We have great farm resources, and our wine distributors are as good as there are in the country.” O

Coffee & Community

Owensboro is rich in community gathering places, from beautiful parks to unique local restaurants. But some of the best places to find community and fellowship are around a good cup of coffee in Owensboro’s quaint, locally owned coffee shops.

WRITTEN BY JOHN KIRKPATRICK // PHOTOS BY JAMIE PLAIN

Kahawa Java

Ticy and Ayanna Cox opened Kahawa Java in 2022 to bring freshly roasted specialty coffee to Owensboro’s west side. The mother-and-daughter duo has always been coffee enthusiasts, especially enjoying the atmospheres the coffee shops create.

This passion inspired them to open Kahawa Java under the motto: “The pattern of coffee and conversation.”

“Business has been going well,” Ticy Cox said. “We have many customers come in and say they are so glad coffee is available on the west side of town. We are also having great success with our specialty drinks and baked goods from Southern Secrets Pastries.”

Kahawa Java comes from their Swahili background, translating the name to “Coffee Coffee.” However, their menu isn’t just coffee. It includes teas, matcha, and other specialty drinks.

Their space at 2601 West Parrish Avenue has room for spoken word, live music performances, and plenty of tables for faceto-face conversation.

Red Swing Coffee

Red Swing Coffee opened in downtown Owensboro near English Park in 2022. In addition to featuring gourmet coffee and specialty drinks, the spot also offers innovative takes on breakfast, lunch, and desserts.

The husband and wife duo of Brandon at Brittney Dukes opened the shop at 112 Allen St, across from the downtown parking garage and featuring a view of the blue bridge.

“We’ve never built anything from scratch, from the ground up,” Brandon Dukes said. “This journey has been exciting, completely ours, and close to our hearts. It speaks to what we believe in: serving others.”

Dukes said some of his fondest memories transpired on a swing, and it’s those vibes that he wishes to bring to Red Swing. In fact, he and his wife spent many of their early dates on a swing and thought the name was the perfect fit.

“We wanted to do something transcending that creates a positive memory for everyone that joins us,” he said. “I’ve never seen anyone upset while swinging—that’s what we’re trying to create here—an uplifting atmosphere with quality products.”

Gramps Coffee & Donuts

Gramps Coffee and Donuts opened in 2021, and owner and operator Amy Gilmore said the response from the community has far exceeded expectations. Customers lined the intersection of Frederica and 4th streets the first week they opened to try Gramps’ take on donuts and coffee. Fast forward two years and the line hasn’t dwindled much.

Rotating seasonal flavors pair with a flaky texture and more mass for a fresh new take on the classic donut concept.

Staple flavors include the “Back In My Day,” a take on the traditional glazed donut, and the “Happy Camper,” a donut with a marshmallow glaze. They also offer a “Strawberry Fields” donut with a fresh strawberry glaze topped with whipped cream and cookie crumbles, along with the “Sap Tapper,” a maple-glazed donut.

“We didn’t know what to expect,” Gilmore said of their new shop and unique approach to donuts. “But people seem to love donuts and coffee, and we’re delighted with how things have gone.”

Gilmore said their downtown location is pivotal in their success and that other downtown businesses have supported their efforts. She said their proximity to the downtown hotels, convention center, and Bluegrass Hall of Fame gives them customers from across the globe.

“It’s great getting to meet people from all over the world,” Amy said. O

FOR A LIST OF MORE COFFEE SHOPS SCAN HERE:

PHOTOS BY JAMIE PLAIN

Shopping Small MAKES A Big Difference

Owensboro’s boutique scene has blossomed the last few years. We like to keep our money where our hearts are: right here at home.

Shopping small is a big deal in many ways. Money spent at a local or family-owned business recirculates in the local economy and strengthens our entire community. The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce unites with Independence bank to host a summer and holiday shop local event.

BELLA RAGAZZA

Moving Home to Start My Dream

Natasha Stanley is a busy mom, wife and local business owner of one of Owensboro’s most popular women’s boutiques. Opening her own brick and mortar retail store had always been her dream, which came true in May 2013 when she opened Bella Ragazza.

“I have said so many times that I’m so glad I decided to move home to Owensboro to start my dream. I had lived in other places and didn’t see that for my future,” Stanley said. “My plans weren’t God’s plan and it’s amazing to see what Owensboro has done for my life, my confidence and my dream.”

Natasha has always been in the retail industry, but it wasn’t until she opened her own store that she realized the real beauty of what she does.

“Customers have become friends and family,” she said. “They bring me joy and a feeling I wish everyone could have at their job.”

Stanley has been in business for a decade, expanding her store into a larger space in 2019. Now, centrally located in the heart of Owensboro in Wesleyan Park Plaza, she says now, more than ever, she understands what her customers need.

“Building relationships and offering convenience and attention is why people want to shop small,” she said.

Natasha is mom to two young daughters, and it is seeing fashion through their eyes that has solidified her mindset when it comes to her retail business.

“Building confidence in women has always been my mission,” she said, “but looking at that mission as a mom of two girls means even more to me.”

Natasha says that her youngest daughter, Hart, feels on top of the world when she’s in a princess dress or has on a sparkly necklace. Her oldest daughter, Sloan, loves being comfortable, but gets giddy when she’s wearing a simple t-shirt from grandmother because it makes her feel loved.

“Clothing can seem superficial to some people, but I think it can make you feel powerful,” Stanley said. “It doesn’t have to be glamorous or trendy. Seeing my kids feels confident, having fun and feeling loved in clothes is pretty cool. I don’t think that feeling has to end at childhood. Women need that just as much, if not more.”

Beautiful & Practical

Willow and Pine Market owner Anne Higgins knows the sentimentality behind dinnerware and serving pieces—they can bring people together and they are often passed down from our parents and their parents.

“A serving platter, a beautiful bowl… they connect us with each other and through the generations,” she said. “They are the witnesses to all our special gatherings and celebrations.”

And it is this love of dishes, passed down from her mother and grandmother, that brought Higgins to open a “dish boutique.” She began with an online store offering Polish

pottery, and the demand for the colorful and unique patterns grew quickly.

In May 2020, she opened a storefront so people could see these curated pieces. Higgins said that as she talked to customers, requests for kitchen and baking items made her realize she needed a bigger space.

Her new space, located at 126 W. 2nd St, opened six months later, and allowed her to expand to offering over 50 brands of kitchen, tabletop, home and gift items.

Higgins said that items in her store fall into two categories: beautiful and practical. “I look for things that I know will bring joy to my customers and will become treasured

family pieces, such as hand-painted Italian ceramics, Polish pottery and European table linens,” she said. “I also know how much families enjoy cooking and baking together, so I look for practical kitchen tools and baking accessories.”

Family is at the heart of everything Anne does.

“Memories of holidays and celebrations spent as a child, as well as countless meals shared around our very large kitchen table were my inspiration for Willow and Pine Market,” she said. O

Outdoor Recreation

BIKE TRAILS

RUDY MINE TRAILS SYSTEM

Enjoy nature at its finest when you visit the Rudy Mine Trail hiking and bike trail system located out Highway 60 West. The double track trail includes three trails that interconnect equaling four miles for easy to moderate rating. The single track trails were designed by mountain bikers, with 8.25 miles of trails and amazing terrain. These trails offer something for every level rider or outdoor enthusiast!

THE GREENBELT

The Adkisson Greenbelt Park is designed to encircle the city, linking neighborhoods, business districts, parks and schools. Over 15 miles of trails make up the Greenbelt Park and offer a 10-foot wide asphalt surface that will easily accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists and meets the Americans with Disabilities Act Standards.

CITY PARKS WALKING TRAILS

Seven of Owensboro’s city parks offer walking trails. Listed below are those parks and lengths of each walking trail:

Chautauqua Park………………. .7 miles

Dugan Best Park………….……. .8 miles

Jack C. Fisher Park………….…. .7 miles

Joe Ford Nature Park………….. .4 miles

Legion Park……………………. .5 miles

Moreland Park…………………. .6 miles

Waymond Morris Park………… 1.5 miles

HIKING TRAILS

YELLOW CREEK PARK

Located at 5710 KY-144 in east Daviess County, Yellow Creek Park offers six hiking trails ranging from .5 to 1.5 miles.

PANTHER CREEK PARK

Located at in west Daviess County, Panther Creek Park offers seven hiking trails ranging from .2 to 4 miles.

JOE FORD NATURE PARK

Located near the intersection of the Wendell Ford Expressway and Hwy 60 West, the Joe Ford Nature Park is named in honor of Joe Ford who developed the 15 acre woodland into an outdoor classroom. The Nature Center operates Tuesday – Thursday 9am-3pm, Friday 9am-Noon. Walking trails are open for your enjoyment 365 days a year during daylight hours.

YELLOW CREEK PARK DISC GOLF COURSE // PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK –HENDERSON, KY

Just a short 30 minute drive away, Audubon State Park is best known for its namesake, John James Audubon, who wrote an exhaustive book about birds that was a landmark work in the 1800s. The one-mile “lake trail” offers a beautiful view of Wilderness Lake with another two-mile “backcountry trail” as an add-on.

FISHING OHIO RIVER

Our little stretch of the Ohio River is home to the state record catfish for both Kentucky and Indiana - a 104 lb blue cat caught just upriver by Owensboro’s Bruce Midkiff in 1999. It’s also home to Monsters on the Ohio, a catfishing tournament held each October at English Park which has grown to become known as the “Super Bowl of Catfishing.”

Hundreds of teams from across the country compete for cash prizes as their five largest fish are weighed in front of the crowd.

CITY AND COUNTY PARKS

Owensboro/Daviess County has several great options for family fishing right here in our own backyard. Yellow Creek and Panther Creek Park are regularly stocked through the FINS (fish in the neighborhood) program. Through a grant from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, the state stocks both county parks with catfish in the summer and trout in the winter.

In the city parks system, Jack C. Fischer is stocked with trout in the spring and fall, but Waymond Morris Park on Todd Bridge Road is the only city park that is stocked through the FINS program.

The state requires that you follow their regulations; a fishing license is required and game wardens do occasionally patrol the parks, but fishing in a park is a great option for families.

CARPENTERS LAKE

Sitting about ten miles northeast of Owensboro, it has a boat ramp and an ADA accessible fishing pier. The lake has good populations of largemouth bass, as well as other popular species like bluegill and channel catfish. At 68 acres, it is possible for boat fisherman to work the lake very thoroughly in a day’s fishing time, but bank access is somewhat limited.

KINGFISHER LAKES

Adjacent to Carpenter Lake, Highway 405 splits Old Kingfisher Lake from New Kingfisher Lake. Each lake has a boat ramp and gravel parking areas for anglers. Kingfisher Lakes is owned and managed by the

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and provides locals and visitors a place to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing.

DAVIESS COUNTY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION

The 25-acre lake at Daviess County Fish and Game is stocked with crappie, red ear, bass and catfish on a regular basis for its members. The purpose of the Daviess County Fish and Game is purely charitable and educational in nature, promoting hunting, fishing, wildlife and land conservation, as well as safety and respect for others. In addition to fishing, Fish and Game has a rifle range, archery range, two playgrounds, camping, bath house, and hiking trails.

DISC GOLF

Yellow Creek Park and Panther Creek Park both offer disc golf courses, although both offer different challenges. The course at Yellow Creek is mostly open holes with strategic pin locations, some requiring throws over the lake, while Panther Creek has several tightly wooded holes and several longer holes with shots out of and into wood lines. Whitesville Community Park, located just outside of Owensboro, also offers a course with 21 technical, slightly wooded holes with a lot of elevation change.

CAMPING DIAMOND LAKE RESORT

Diamond Lake Resort is just fifteen minutes west of Owensboro and was recently named one of the best spots in Kentucky to camp. Diamond Lake also offers fishing, several go-kart tracks, putt-putt, disc golf and bumper boats. Diamond Lake is located off Hwy 56 at 7301 Hobbs Road.

WINDY

HOLLOW CAMPGROUND

Relax and enjoy a swim on the beach, stop in for a snack at the concession stand, and enjoy the scenic view. With modern campsites, and a beautiful setting, Windy Hollow offers family camping at its best.

VASTWOOD PARK – HANCOCK COUNTY

Vastwood Park is a great camping destination just 30 minutes east of Owensboro. Many campsites are right on the beautiful 19-acre lake, with an RV campground on an elevated clearing overlooking the lake. Campers can enjoy a paved walking trail circling the lake, disc golf, a large fenced-in playground, and wide variety of athletic fields. O

COUNTY PARKS

Horse Fork Creek is home to western Kentucky’s largest soccer complex, a 6-acre lake, a large playground, a splash park and newly opened inclusive playground.

Yellow Creek Park is a 152-acre park with several sports fields, walking and hiking trails, a pioneer village, a popular frisbee disc golf course, and a 7-acre lake.

Panther Creek Park boasts seven walking and hiking trails, some of which are elevated above the wetlands along the creek. The 6-acre lake is regularly stocked by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. Panther Creek South also has a frisbee disc golf course.

SPRAY PARKS

Spray park splash pads are located at three City Parks: Kendall Perkins Park, Legion Park, and Smothers Park; as well as Panther Creek, Yellow Creek, and Horse Fork Creek parks in the county system. Open late May - late September.

CITY POOLS

Combest Pool 1530 McJohnson Ave | 270-687-8723

*The City Parks & Rec offers swim lessons, fitness/aquatics classes, and various special events throughout the summer. Call 270-687-8333 for available dates and times.

POOL MEMBERSHIPS

Atlantis Swim Club 3905 Cater Road | 270-683-1200

Owensboro Country Club 400 E Byers Ave. | 270-683-6265

Windridge Country Club 5044 Millers Mill Rd. | 270-685-3639

The Pearl Club 6501 Summit Dr. | 270-281-4653

GOLFING IN Owensboro FOOTGOLF

Whether you’re an experienced pro or a first-time golfer, our guide to the area courses will have you off the tee box and on the green in no time.

PANTHER CREEK GOLF COURSE

Panther Creek Golf Course is located approximately 10 miles from Owensboro in rural, southwest Daviess County around what was the old Panther coal mine. Panther Creek offers an 18-hole golf course complimented by a clubhouse with food and beverage service, and seating inside or outside.

HILLCREST GOLF COURSE

Hillcrest Golf Course is a nine-hole regulation course with four sets of tee markers. It features rolling terrain and small, bent-grass greens that require pin-point accuracy and a pro shop. Hillcrest golf course continues to be a city staple, with its ideal location and beautiful rolling terrain, which has proven popular with golfers of all ages. Its low fee structure and open design make it ideal for juniors, seniors, ladies and beginners, or golfers just looking for a quick nine holes of golf!

BEN HAWES GOLF COURSE

Ben Hawes Golf Course is a municipal golf course that is open to the public 12 months a year. Ben Hawes offers an 18-hole, par 71 championship layout and practice areas that include a driving range, large putting green and separate chipping and pitching area. It also has a nine-hole Par 3 golf course, that is lighted on the summer weekends and is great for a quick round, beginners, young golfers or just a chance to work on your short game.

OWENSBORO COUNTRY CLUB

Owensboro Country Club was established in 1919 and is considered one of the finest private clubs in Western Kentucky. The 18-hole course features tree-lined Bermuda fairways, bent grass greens, and four sets of zoysia grass tees, making it very golfer friendly. There are 5 lakes that add beauty and risk to your round of golf.

WINDRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB

Windridge Country Club is a semi-private course, open to public play on most days. The 18-hole course is one of the area’s most attractive with rolling hills, challenging greens, numerous water features and strategically-placed sand traps.The club offers three types of memberships: stockholder memberships, social memberships, and pool only memberships for families and for singles.

THE PEARL CLUB

The Pearl Club golf course is noted as “Western Kentucky’s Premier Golf Course.” The views looking out from the course are superb as the course sits at the highest point in Daviess County. The Club boasts the area’s only indoor, full swing simulator that is available by appointment to members and the public. O

Footgolf is a precision sport, combining soccer and golf, in which players kick a soccerstyle ball into a cup in as few shots as possible. Here in Owensboro, residents have two options to play footgolf: a 9-hole course in conjunction with the Par 3 golf course at Ben Hawes and an 18-hole course in conjunction with the 9 hole golf course at Hillcrest.

Both courses will be open seven days a week weather permitting. The 9 hole course located at Ben Hawes costs $10 per person and Hillcrest costs $12 per person for 18 holes. Play is limited until after 12 p.m. at Hillcrest, with no play restrictions at the Par 3 Course at Ben Hawes.

For more information on our FootGolf courses or FootGolf rules and etiquette, visit our website at www.owensboroparks.org or call 270-687-7134.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY OWENSBORO PARKS AND RECREATION

YOUTH SPORTS & ACTIVITIES

Owensboro is a sports town! There are plenty of opportunities for kids to get out and get active in Owensboro. Here is a listing of the most popular youth leagues and programs in Greater Owensboro. This publication comes out every two years, so details are subject to change. Please contact the organization for current information.

BASEBALL

DAVIESS COUNTY PLAYGROUND ASSOCIATION daviessky.org

LIL’ SLUGGERS T-BALL

LilSluggersTball

OWENSBORO PARKS T-BALL LEAGUE owensboroparks.org

WESTERN CAL RIPKEN owensboroparks.org/sports/youth-baseball

EASTERN CAL RIPKEN owensboroparks.org/sports/youth-baseball

SOUTHERN LITTLE LEAGUE owensboroparks.org/sports/youth-baseball

OWENSBORO DAVIESS COUNTY BABE RUTH BASEBALL odcbaberuthleague.com

OWENSBORO CATHOLIC YOUTH BASEBALL LEAGUE owensborocatholicleague.com

BASKETBALL

APOLLO ABA YOUTH BASKETBALL LEAGUE stevebarker5.wixsite.com

CLIFF HAGAN BOYS & GIRLS CLUB cliffhaganboysandgirlsclub.org

DCHS D-LEAGUE daviesskyschools.org

UPWARD BASKETBALL BellevueOwensboroUpwardSports OwensboroUpward

BOWLING

DIAMOND LANES SOUTHTOWN STRIKERS diamondlanes.net

BOXING

LITTLE LEGENDS littlelegendsybm

CHEERLEADING

UPWARD CHEERLEADING

BellevueOwensboroUpwardSports OwensboroUpward

DAVIESS COUNTY YOUTH FOOTBALL CHEERLEADING odcyouthsports.com

CHEER ZONE cheer-zone.com

KFL CHEERLEADING kidsfootballleague.com

DANCE

JOHNSON’S DANCE STUDIO johnsonsdancestudio.com

MUSICK STUDIOS musickstudios.com

TIPPI TOES

TippiToesDance.com/SoKY

FIGURE SKATING

OWENSBORO FIGURE SKATING CLUB AND FREESTYLE ICE owensboroparks.org

FOOTBALL

OWENSBORO DAVIESS COUNTY YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE odcyouthsports.com

KIDS FOOTBALL LEAGUE (KFL) kidsfootballleague.com

GOLF

GO JUNIOR GOLF SERIES gojuniorgolfseries.com

GYMNASTICS

OWENSBORO GYMNAST

OwensboroGymFit

ITUMBLE AND BOUNCE itumbleandbounce.org

HOCKEY

OWENSBORO YOUTH HOCKEY ASSOCIATION owensborohockey.com

MULTI-SPORT TRAINING

DYNASTY SPORTS PERFORMANCE TRAINING dynastysportsperformancetraining

SOCCER

EAST COUNTY SOCCER LEAGUE EastCountySoccer

DAVIESS COUNTY YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION

dcysaky.demosphere-secure.com

PHOTO BY JESS OLIVER

PHOTO PROVIDED BY OWENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION

SPORTSTUTOR & FUTSAL sportstutor.net

OWENSBORO UNITED SOCCER CLUB owensborounited.com

SOFTBALL

DAVIESS COUNTY PLAYGROUND ASSOCIATION daviessky.org

OWENSBORO CATHOLIC YOUTH SOFTBALL LEAGUE owensborocatholicleague.com

SWIMMING

OWENSBORO PARKS & REC owensboroparks.org

OWENSBORO MARLINS owensboromarlins.com

OWENSBORO FAMILY YMCA owensboroymca.org

TAE KWON DO/ MARTIAL ARTS

JONES ATA MARTIAL ARTS owensboroblackbelt.com

GRACIE JUJITSU gracieowensboro.com

OWENSBORO TRADITIONAL TAE KWON DO owensborotkd

TENNIS

CENTRE COURT owensborotennis.net

VOLLEYBALL

LITTLE SPIKERS YOUTH VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE owensboroparks.org

WRESTLING

OWENSBORO FAMILY YMCA YOUTH WRESTLING owensboroymca.org

DAVIESS COUNTY YOUTH WRESTLING LEAGUE daviesskyschools.org

Creating a Healthy Lifestyle

WRITTEN BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY OWENSBORO HEALTH

When it comes to promoting a healthy lifestyle, Owensboro offers an array of fitness centers. But one facility offers much more than just a gym experience.

The Owensboro Health Healthpark is a place where families can come together to spend quality time while also prioritizing their health and wellness. The Healthpark offers a variety of activities and services that cater to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal destination for the entire community.

In addition to its family-friendly offerings, the Owensboro Health Healthpark also prioritizes community education and wellness. The facility regularly hosts health and wellness events, seminars, and workshops that are open to the public. These events cover a range of topics, including

OWENSBORO HEALTH HEALTHPARK

FUN FACT: Federica Street, Owensboro’s main thoroughfare that goes right through the center of the city, was once a path for buffalo to come to the river and drink.

nutrition, stress management, and disease prevention. The Healthpark also offers individualized health coaching and personal training services to help individuals achieve their health and wellness goals.

It’s also the only Medical Fitness Association-certified fitness facility in the state, which means the Healthpark has strict safety standards, medical oversight of programs, personal guidance from certified staff and additional opportunities to reduce your health risks and live a healthier lifestyle.

During designated family times, members may bring their children, ages 12 and under, to any of our first-floor amenities. With two pools, a gym and table tennis, families can share the fun of fitness. While you use the Healthpark, place your children ages six weeks to 12 years in the Playpark—a safe, nurturing environment with fun activities and staff certified in CPR and first aid.

The Healthpark also partners with the Junior League of Owensboro to host the annual Run For Your Life 5k Road Race and Kids Fun Run. O

FOR A LIST OF MORE FITNESS CENTERS SCAN HERE:

CLOSE TO HOME Healthcare

WRITTEN BY JACQUELINE RUSSELL // PHOTOS PROVIDED BY OWENSBORO HEALTH

Owensboro Health, a nonprofit health system with a mission to heal the sick and improve the health of the communities it serves, provides exceptional care to western Kentucky and southern Indiana. The system includes Owensboro Health Regional Hospital—nationally recognized for design, architecture and engineering and the only hospital in the world to be designated a Signature Sanctuary by Audubon International; Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital in Greenville and Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center in Leitchfield; the Owensboro Health Medical Group comprised of over 180 providers in 30 locations; three outpatient Healthplex facilities, a certified medical fitness facility and the Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center.

Beyond being a destination for award-

winning care, Owensboro Health is a proud community partner. The organization continually sponsors large community events like the Owensboro Air Show and ROMP Bluegrass Music Festival, along with youth sports, art programming and much more. The organization’s Community Health Investments Grant program provides in-kind and financial support for health and human services projects and programming throughout the region. Funded projects and agencies being supported span a wide array of regional needs, from children in local school districts to aging adults and senior services. Owensboro Health has invested more than $10 million in area agencies through these grants since 2011.

Owensboro Health is also the largest employer in the region, with a team of more than 5,000 dedicated individuals. For the last

five years, Owensboro Health has been voted Best Place To Work in Owensboro Living’s annual Best Of Owensboro contest. And those team members consistently show up for the community in ways that go beyond their roles at Owensboro Health. Annually, they donate thousands of dollars and (literally) tons of food for those in need through the Owensboro Health Gives program.

Caring team members and physicians, quality healthcare and convenient locations. Owensboro Health wants to keep you healthy and wants to make you proud. For more information, visit OwensboroHealth.org. O

FOR A LIST OF MORE PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL AFFILIATES SCAN HERE:

OWENSBORO HEALTH

JANET ROWLAND FAMILY DENTISTRY

SHOWING COMPASSION Through Dentistry

WRITTEN BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

Janet Rowland Family Dentistry is a full-service dental office in Owensboro that offers tooth whitening, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, root canal therapy and treatment for gum disease.

But for Dr. Rowland, she said the most incredible part of dentistry is the opportunity she has to change lives.

“Just having a cleaning or a cavity filled is an integral part of feeling your best,” she said. “Just imagine the difference a smile makeover can make! I want all my patients to leave our office feeling their best, and confident they can make a difference in their own lives. My team is empowered to help you make decisions about your oral health and is able to provide you with all the information you need to make educated decisions about the latest products and technologies in dentistry.”

Rowland also has a passion for community. She is a member of the Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and her office was awarded the 2020 Emerging Business of the Year Award.

Rowland and her husband moved to Owensboro 17 years ago for his job with State Farm Insurance.

The entire team at Rowland Family Dentistry strives to treat people in a way that shows love and compassion.

“Our mission as an office team is to love, serve and care,” Rowland said. “This can be seen in dozens of Google reviews where our patients attest to the care they feel when they walk through our doors.”

Outside of the office, Rowland spends her time discipling women in recovery from substance abuse and she is the Clinical Director for the non-profit GodSmile. O

Local GOVERNMENT

Owensboro and Daviess County have separate, but cooperating, government bodies.

The City of Owensboro operates under a City Manager form of government. Citizens elect a mayor (four-year term) and four city commissioners (two-year terms) who form the Board of Commissioners. The Board of Commissioners is the legislative body of the city government and represents the interests of the citizens. The Board of Commissioners hires a city manager (indefinite term) who administers the day-to-day operations of the city. The City of Owensboro also maintain police and fire departments.

The Fiscal Court is the governing body of Daviess County, composed of four elected officials: the Judge-Executive and three commissioners, who are elected every four years. Daviess County Fiscal Court also has jurisdiction over property valuation, county clerk's office, the jail, the sheriff's and county fire departments, emergency management and animal control. O

Permits & Licenses Utilities

PROPERTY TAX & BUSINESS LICENSE

OWENSBORO CITY HALL

101 E 4th St.

Questions?

Call “City Action” Line 270-687-444

DRIVERS LICENSE & REAL I.D.

DAVIESS COUNTY OPERATIONS CENTER

2620 Old Hwy 81

Questions?

Call 270-691-9659

VEHICLE/BOAT

REGISTRATION, REGISTER TO VOTE, MARRIAGE LICENSE, & PASSPORT

DAVIESS COUNTY COURTHOUSE

212 St. Ann St.

Questions? Call Fiscal Court Administration

270-685-8424

ZONING, BUILDING

PERMITS, & BUILDING/ ELECTRICAL FIRE INSPECTIONS

GREATER OWENSBORO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

123 W 4th St

Questions?:

Call GO-EDC 270-687-8650

HELPFUL WEBSITES

ELECTRICITY

OWENSBORO MUNICIPAL UTILITIES (FOR CITY RESIDENTS)

2070 Tamarack Rd.

Questions?

270-926-3200 omu.org

KENERGY (FOR COUNTY RESIDENTS) 3111 Fairview Dr.

Questions?

800-844-4832 kenergycorp.com WATER

OWENSBORO MUNICIPAL UTILITIES (FOR CITY RESIDENTS) 2070 Tamarack Rd.

Questions?

270-926-3200 omu.org

S.E. DAVIESS COUNTY WATER (FOR COUNTY RESIDENTS) 3400 Bittell Rd.

Questions?

270-685-5594 daviessky.org

GAS ATMOS ENERGY

Questions?

888-286-6700 atmosenergy.com

CHAMBER.OWENSBORO.COM

The online home of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. Includes a list of events and membership directory of nearly 1,000 members. 200 E. 3rd St. 270-926-1860

VISITOWENSBORO.COM

Brought to you by the OwensboroDaviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Features news and notes, an events calendar and a visitor’s guide. 215 E. 2nd St. 270-926-1100 or 800-489-1131

OWENSBOROTICKETS.COM

A regional ticketing provider for live entertainment ticketing and event registration needs. Including Owensboro Convention Center, RiverPark Center and Kentucky Wesleyan basketball.

POLICE.OWENSBORO.ORG

Contact information including anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline, overview of services, listing of current cases, and more information for the community.

DAVIESSKY.ORG

Daviess County Fiscal Court 212 St. Ann St. 270-685-8424

OWENSBORO.ORG

City of Owensboro 101 E. 4th St. 270-687-4444

OUR PETFRIENDLY COMMUNITY

WRITTEN BY JACQUELINE RUSSELL

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

Pet owners in Owensboro can find lots of help to care for their furry friends, with a great lineup of groomers, veterinarians and training services in town.

One of the most popular pet-focused businesses is Paws Town, which offers boarding, daycare and grooming, as well as training in a second location called Kentucky Canine Campus. Madison Durham and Terri Spencer launched the idea in 2018 and the business continues to grow.

“We wanted a safe place where animals could stay, and socialized dogs could play while their humans were away,” Durham said. “Our goal was to offer something different where play was included in the experience of their stay to make it less stressful and more enjoyable.”

Doggie daycare was a fairly new concept in 2018, but the business owners had a vision. “We wanted to provide the ability for puppies to gain some socialization with the guidance of staff trained for behavior; and for older, already socialized dogs to have some time to play with guidance during the day and burn off some energy while their owners were at work.”

But even businesses not in the pet space see the value that four-legged friends bring to their environment. From a clothing boutique to a funeral home to local schools — dogs have been a “pawsisitive” addition to atmosphere and morale.

Owensboro is home to SparKy, a nonprofit, nokill, animal rescue that takes a unique approach to animal rescue through utilization of foster homes to house the animals. Their annual “Bark in Style” silent auction/fashion show is a community favorite event.

Owensboro also offers Castlen Dog Park, located inside Legion Park, for off-leash play. Dog owners can also take advantage of the Greenbelt walking trail around the city and numerous parks around the county for more fun. O

LOCAL MEDIA

RADIO

HOT96

96.1FM

Today’s Hit Music

WABX

107.5FM

Evansville’s Classic Rock Station

WIKY 104.1

104.1FM

Evansville’s Adult Contempory Station

THE LLOYD 105.3FM

Real Country

CFR

90.3FM Christian Family Radio

CROMWELL RADIO

3301 Frederica St, Owensboro KY 42301 270-683-1558

97X 97.1 FM WXCM Modern & Classic Rock

WBIO

94.7FM WBIO

Classic Country “We Believe in Owensboro”

102.7 “THE GAME”

102.7FM WLME

ESPN Sports Radio

CJ 105.7

105.7FM WCJZ

Classic Rock

WVJS

92.9FM & AM1420 WVJS

Oldies from 70s, 80s and 90s. “Owensboro’s Greatest Hits”

WKCM

101.3FM, 98.7FM, 97.9FM & AM1160

“NASH Icon. Western Kentucky Country Music”

WTCJ

93.3FM & AM1230

90s & 2000s

100.5 “THE VIBE”

100.5FM Classic Hip-Hop

TOWN SQUARE MEDIA

3301 Frederica St. 270-683-1558

90.3 WKWC

WKWC 90.3 is a 5,000 watt FM radio station locally owned and operated by Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro.

THE COUNTRY STATION

92.5 WBKR

WBKR.com

Today’s Country with special programming that includes NASCAR and UK Basketball, Live Weather Updates and Wall to Wall Severe Weather Coverage.

NEWS TALK

1490 AM and 99.1 FM womiowensboro.com

Your Station for News, Talk and Sports. Hourly local news updates 6:30am-5:30pm, Dave Ramsey, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck, plus several locally broadcasted shows, UK Football and Basketball.

MAGAZINES

OWENSBORO PARENT

owensboroparent.com

Covering local events, regional attractions, health-related articles, education, local businesses, entertainment reviews and travel information, Owensboro Parent strives to be an essential companion for parents.

OWENSBORO LIVING

owensboroliving.com

As “The Free Guide to Life in Western Kentucky,” Owensboro Living serves as an informational and entertaining resource for the community, offering readers a unique view of the people, places, and events that make our city stand apart.

ONLINE NEWS

OWENSBORO TIMES

owensborotimes.com

An online, daily news source covering Owensboro and Daviess County stories as well as national and regional stories with a local connection. Download the Owensboro Times app on iTunes or Google Play for breaking news, local sports updates, community features, and more.

NEWSPAPER

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

1401 Frederica St.

Publishes seven days a week and

Muhlenberg and Ohio counties in western Kentucky.

TV

OCTV Channel 71

A division of Owensboro Community & Technical College, OCTV offers local origination programs and video production services for the college and the greater Owensboro/Daviess County area.

WFIE

14 News

Tristate news, weather, and sports. NBC affiliate.

WEHT

News 25 Eyewitness news. ABC affiliate. CW affiliate.

WEVV

OWENSBORO TIMES STAFF //

PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN

FIRST RESPONDERS AND PUBLIC SAFETY

Owensboro-Daviess County Central Dispatch - 911

Owensboro-Daviess County Central Dispatch handles all initial calls requesting Owensboro Police Department, Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, Owensboro Fire Department, Daviess County Fire Department and the Daviess County Volunteer Fire Departments. Medical emergencies are referred to the local contracted ambulance service.

Owensboro Fire Department

The Owensboro Fire Department serves the City of Owensboro operating five (5) fire stations and a regional training center handling a variety of emergency and non-emergency functions for the City. Under the emergency services umbrella, OFD offers Basic Life Support nontransport emergency first response to a variety of call types.

Stations

No. 1 - 512 W. Ninth St.

No. 2 - 1900 E. Parrish Ave.

No. 3 - 2633 Cravens Ave.

No. 4 - 25th and Breckenridge St.

No. 5 - 3845 South Griffith Ave.

Daviess County Fire Department

The Daviess County Fire Department provides safe, professional service through education, prevention, emergency services and community relations. In addition to fire suppression, the Fire Department offers EMS/ ALS, search and rescue, extrication, water rescue, high angle rescue and cause and determination services to protect the life and property of Daviess County citizens.

East Daviess County Fire Station 5005 Highway 54 East

Daviess County Airport Fire Station 2140 Airport Rd.

Owensboro Police Department

The mission of the Owensboro Police Department is to work in a true partnership with our community, to enhance the quality of life in our city, while maintaining order and protecting the people we serve by reducing incidences of crime, doing so with professionalism, honor, and integrity.

222 E 9th St., Owensboro, KY 42301 Emergency: 911 Business: 270-687-8888

Daviess County Sheriff’s Office

We the deputies and employees of the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office are committed, by adhering without compromise to our core values in our resolve to providing all citizens of Daviess County the highest standard of quality law enforcement.

212 St. Ann St., Owensboro, KY 42303

Emergency: 911 Business: 270-685-8444

We’ll see you soon!

sk ten different people what they love about Owensboro and you might get ten different answers. But those answers will probably revolve around a sense of community. You are now part of a community that, despite some major recent upgrades, maintains a small town feel with big city dreams.

This is a city that is determined to grow and will not stand still. New residents may not realize how much Owensboro has changed over the last 15 years, but as you can

tell by the steel beams that speckle the skyline, we’re still a work in progress.

Progress that’s now directly tied to major interstates, bordered by award winning parks and bringing in national entertainment in our world class venues. Progress that put us on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™, brings in bluegrass music fans from all over the world and attracts developers with innovative ideas for our future.

But we still know how to take time to relax and enjoy life too. Residents find Greater Owensboro a

great place to raise a family, a great place to retire, and a great place for millennials to thrive. There’s always something to do, things to see, and friendly folks to meet.

Welcome to Owensboro. We’re glad you’re here. We hope this Greater Owensboro Relocation Guide has helped you feel more at home in your new town. Stop by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce office if there’s ever anything you need.

We’d love to see you. O

WRITTEN BY DANNY MAY // PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY