Owensboro Living - February / March 2015

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2015

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Improving the health of your community.

Good health is essential to the vitality of any community. Owensboro Health exists to improve the health of the communities we serve so people may lead more fulfilling lives. That’s just one of the reasons why we’ve become western Kentucky’s leading healthcare provider. Allow us to join you on your journey.

Learn more at OwensboroHealth.org

30 specialties allow you to stay close to home • Cancer Care • Heart Care • Orthopedics • Neurosciences • Women’s Health

* Healthgrades America’s 100 Best™ Hospital 2013-2014

19 locations

serving the

following counties www.OwensboroLiving.com

Kentucky

Breckinridge Butler Daviess Grayson Hancock Henderson

Hopkins Muhlenberg McLean Ohio Union Webster

Indiana Perry Spencer

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FROM THE EDITOR

Publisher/Creative Director Jason Tanner Editor Steven Wilson

OW E NS B O RO ’S GOT TAL ENT

Ad Sales Bo Alexander Robert Williams

In this issue, our first of 2015, Owensboro Living is proud to feature several home-grown artists:

Kevin Olusola and Layout Design Andrea Roberson

Pentatonix have exploded onto the national music scene with their unique blend of vocals; author Kody Keplinger is awaiting

Ad Design Andrea Roberson Taylor West

the release of the full-length feature film based on her bestselling book; Joe Christian’s Laudo Drums are poised to be the next big

Contributors Dr. Roger Humphrey Gail Kirkland Danny May Adam Paris Ashley Sorce Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt

thing in the percussion world; and five local barn quilt painters are making a big impression on all those who see their largerthan-life works of art. By the end of this issue, if you’re not already, you’ll surely be convinced that Owensboro is oozing with talent.

Printing Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky

We’re also excited to bring you our inaugural Wedding Guide, a valuable resource for any of our readers who are planning their one-of-a-kind celebration. Inside the guide, you’ll find charming stories from local couples who gladly shared the details of their nuptials with us. We’ve also accumulated a selection of the best wedding vendors in Owensboro. In addition to useful tips, the guide familiarizes our readers with the vendors and the unique services that each of them provide, including: venues, catering, photography, gift registries, jewelry, transportation, and more.

When it comes to planning one of the most important days of your life, we’ve got you covered. And it’s our hope that the Owensboro Living Wedding Guide only continues to grow.

Who knows, maybe next year Owensboro will be reading the unique story of your special day.

Steven Wilson, Editor

BY THE END OF THIS ISSUE, IF YOU’RE NOT ALREADY, YOU’LL SURELY BE CONVINCED THAT OWENSBORO IS OOZING WITH TALENT.

Online www.owensboroliving.com facebook.com/owensboroliving twitter.com/owensboroliving issuu.com/owensboroliving

-JASON TANNER

Offline Owensboro Living Magazine PO Box 23237 Owensboro, KY 42304 (270) 314-5240 Subscribe Delivery of Owensboro Living is available by visiting owensboroliving.com/subscribe Advertise Owensboro Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise.

A Jason Tanner Design Group Company

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www.OwensboroLiving.com

Effective brand interactions.

TM

2015

FEB MARCH

[08]

[35]

THE BUZZ

THE REAL PEOPLE, PLACES AND EVENTS THAT SHAPE OUR COMMUNITY

THE PULSE

[10]

BETTER OUTCOMES WITH VEIN TREATMENT

FEATURES [14] UNCOMMONLY GOOD [17] LAUDO DRUMS [22] OWENSBORO RAMPAGE [28] SMALL TOWN TO BIG SCREEN [35] KEVIN OLUSOLA

[22]

[17]

[46]

[51]

[42] REMEMBERING WENDELL FORD [46] FROM SQUARE ONE

[51]

THE WEDDING GUIDE

[80]

THE SCENE

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND OWENSBORO

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BUZZ

PHOTO BY DAVID GRINNELL

THE

DAVIESS CO. CELEBRATING 2OO YEARS Turning 200 is a pretty big deal, so in honor of its Bicentennial, Daviess County is throwing itself a yearlong birthday bash to celebrate Daviess County’s 200th birthday on June 1st. For a full calendar of events and activities, visit daviess200.org. The committee is also publishing the first history of the rural areas of the county since 1883. They are now collecting pictures to scan

and save for future generations and conducting oral interviews with citizens to record their firsthand accounts of Daviess County from decades ago. If you have any historical information you would like to include, a person you would like to be interviewed for the oral history project, or a historic picture to send, please contact the Daviess County Fiscal Court at http://daviess200.org/contact/

OHS FOOTBALL COACH JOE PRINCE RESIGNS Longtime OHS Head Football Coach Joe Prince announced that he is resigning as the head football coach at Owensboro High School. Coach Prince is taking a head football coaching job at Fauquier High School in Warrenton,

MELLOW MUSHROOM OPENING RESTAURANT Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers will be

restaurant franchise with over 150 locations

opening an Owensboro location in 2015.

throughout the United States. Its headquarters

Mellow Mushroom will be moving into the

are in unincorporated Fulton County, Georgia.

Bates Building on 2nd Street. Mayor Payne made the announcement during his State of the City address at the Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Rooster Booster breakfast .

Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers is a pizzeria that was established in Atlanta, Georgia in 1974 and operates as a

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Va. “It’s been a great run as leader of the Red Devils Football Team. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it but my daughter recently moved to Virginia and she and her husband are expecting a baby. Being close to my family is so important to me. Although I’m sad to have to leave Owensboro High School, I’m excited for this new opportunity,” said Joe Prince, OHS Head Football Coach. www.OwensboroLiving.com

LOCAL STORIES DELIVERED DAILY

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it

music, sports, education, and everything

again: This is an exciting time to live

in between, there is simply no other

in Owensboro! Now, were excited to

place that offers so much local content

invite you to owensboroliving.com -

right at your fingertips.

your free online source for local news in Owensboro and Western Kentucky.

“The Buzz” section in our print version simply wasn’t big enough to contain all of the amazing things going on in our city. Updated daily, owensboroliving. com is quickly becoming the go-to site for the latest news in our vibrant community. Covering local news,

2015 ROMP FESTIVAL LINEUP ANNOUNCED

The 12th annual ROMP Festival takes place June 24-27, 2015. Appearing at

PHOTO BY DAVID GRINNELL

this year’s ROMP are John

THIRD OUTDOOR SCULPTURE UNVEILED

Prine, the Punch Brothers, David Grisman and Del McCoury, known as “Del & Dawg,” the Sam Bush Band, Leftover Salmon, and Hot Rize, along with the 2014 IBMA Entertainer of the Year and Instrumental Band

“Harvest Dreams” is a life-size family group featuring a father, mother and child

of the Year, Balsam Range

of agrarian heritage celebrating a fruitful season. The bronze sculpture, by George

and Frank Solivan & Dirty

Lundeen of Loveland, Colorado, is part of the RIVERARTES program and is

Kitchen. These and dozens

placed at the top of a walkway facing Veterans Boulevard. “RIVERARTES: The Art of Placemaking” is a program designed to celebrate the vitality of Owensboro and enhance its reputation as a cultural tourism destination.

www.OwensboroLiving.com

of national acts have been announced on the festival’s web site, www.rompfest.com.

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THE

PULSE

BETTER OUTCOMES WITH VEIN TREATMENT

BY DR. ROGER HUMPHREY OWENSBORO HEALTH SURGICAL SPECIALISTS

Ropey, bulging or spidery-looking varicose veins in the leg aren’t just a cosmetic problem. They can be a significant medical problem, and treating them earlier can make a big difference when it comes to preventing painful and serious complications later.

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www.OwensboroLiving.com

A VEIN PROBLEM, NOT A VAIN PROBLEM

made in treating vein problems of the legs. That

Varicose veins in the legs, which are large,

phlebologist in the state of Kentucky. Today,

raised and swollen blood vessels under the

there are only seven of us statewide.

led to me becoming the fourth board-certified

skin, are a progressive problem. In the veins of your legs are valves that prevent blood from

Treatment of varicose and spider veins focuses on three

flowing back down your legs because of gravity.

primary methods:

As we age, and depending on how much we’re

• Laser ablation: Using ultrasound to guide

on our feet, those valves can start to fail and

us, we can insert a catheter into the vein and

allow blood to flow back downward. This

treat it from the inside using laser energy to

causes higher blood pressure in those veins and

obliterate the problem veins.

• Sclerotherapy: This technique uses doses of

can lead to bulging varicose veins.

A similar and associated problem is known as

medication injected into the problem veins,

“spider veins,” which are small dilated blood

destroying them.

vessels near the skin’s surface. They’re similar

• Ambulatory phlebectomy: Using a series

to varicose veins but smaller, and they are often

of tiny micro-incisions, we can surgically

due to venous hypertension or other vascular

remove large veins in question and do so in a

problems.

way that is virtually scarless.

At the very least, varicose and spider veins are unsightly, which leads a lot of people to get them

SIGHT BEYOND SKIN

treated straightaway. However, some people put

One of the most important components to

off having them treated, and as the problem

using these treatments is being able to assess

progresses,

develop.

them effectively. Owensboro Health Surgical

Varicose veins can lead to swelling of the legs

Specialists has an ultrasound laboratory that

and be painful. In rare cases, there can be more

is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation

serious circulatory problems like ulcers (sores).

Commission for Vascular Testing (formerly the

As with most medical conditions, treating these

Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation

veins earlier rather than later is a good idea.

of Vascular Laboratories). Not only do they

other

symptoms

can

require rigorous preparation and testing to earn

MODERN MEDICINE FOR THE MODERN AGE

that certification, but they monitor and follow-

Years ago, treating these veins took surgeries

their standards. Owensboro Health Surgical

that were painful and left scars, neither of which

Specialists was the first lab certified by the

are very appealing to most people. But about

ICAVL in the region. To further help with

eight or nine years ago, my colleague Dr. Robert

diagnosis and support the lab, I am also certified

Schell came back from a conference and he was

as a registered physician vascular interpreter

raving about the amazing new progress being

(RPVI).

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up to ensure any lab is in compliance with

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SOONER RATHER THAN L ATER I feel strongly about treating vein problems because I see so often that this is a neglected disease, and if left untreated it can lead to a lot of pain and difficulty. The earlier it is addressed, the better the outcome and the easier it is to manage, and that’s why I encourage people to talk about it and get it treated.

As a physician, I get a lot of satisfaction out of seeing my patients get well and get back to enjoying their lives. Through much study, reading, conferences and instruction, I have come to use these new techniques and

“AS A PHYSICIAN, I GET A LOT OF SATISFACTION OUT OF SEEING MY PATIENTS GET WELL AND BACK TO ENJOYING THEIR LIVES.”

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technologies, and I have never been better able to make that a reality for people from throughout this region.

Dr. Roger Humphrey is a board certified general surgeon and phlebologist with Owensboro Health Surgical Specialists, located at 2801 New Hartford Road. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 270-926-1336.

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BY GAIL E. KIRKLAND

UNCOMMONLY GOOD C

risp white and brilliant coral walls create an

from a give-away Sparrow’s Wardrobe clothing store

inviting backdrop for carefully crafted displays

(which began 7 years ago) to the Common Good

of small household appliances, kitchen wares, home

Community Store, with the objective of transforming

goods, furniture, toys, home décor, clothing for all

“good intentions into genuine lasting change,” as

ages—and much more. A sandwich board sign at

one reviewer of Toxic Charity so aptly said. Beyond

the entrance offers a first welcome to any would-

reading the books, a group of church members visited

be shoppers at Common Good Community Store, a

Atlanta’s Focused Community Strategies store. That

new thrift store within Owensboro Christian Church

experience compelled them to recommend that

(2818 New Hartford Road), designed to reach and to

the church make the switch to a thrift store. The

encourage those struggling within the Owensboro

metamorphosis did not come easily or quickly. It took

community.

months of planning and an abundance of sweat equity

It all began with Cheri Searcy’s son, Preston,

before the doors of Common Good Community Store

suggesting that she read When Helping Hurts by

opened January 6, 2015. Bonnie and Jack Hedges,

Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. Then he suggested

along with numerous other volunteers, worked

Robert Lupton’s book Toxic Charity. The books

tirelessly to paint, remove old flooring, and literally

tout new strategies (not give-aways) that focus on

transform the Sparrow’s Wardrobe into the Common

offering dignity and providing hope for those that are

Good Community Store.

materially poor. Basically, the church did a U-turn

Shawn Green, a former assistant minister at OCC,

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PHOTO BY DAVID GRINNELL

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“laid the foundation for change,” according to

large, expensive item. Cleaning, organizing and

Cheri, local outreach coordinator at Owensboro

straightening are ongoing tasks for volunteers, as

Christian. Shawn realized that chronic economic

well as arranging creative displays within the store.

problems cannot be fixed with Band-aid-type give-

To check out, patrons simply take their items to the

aways. Instead, he encouraged others to catch the

cash register for purchase. Aside from the obvious

vision of allowing people to learn the benefits of

tasks required, some unseen or unspoken needs

being responsible, making better choices, and better

are addressed: to simply encourage the patrons, to

decisions.

spontaneously pray with them, to listen and gently

With the assistance of 6-8 volunteers to man the

counsel as needed.

store, which is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9

The organizers of The Tot, The Teen & The

a.m. to noon, Common Good is a direct take-off on

Wardrobe helped kick-start the inventory of CGCS

the highly successful outreach in Atlanta, begun by

with a large donation, as have individual donations

Lupton. The ultimate goal of Common Good is to

from church members and the community.

allow those served to become more independent and

How can others in the church or community

to learn to make good choices, not simply “get it for

come alongside and help with this venture? “Pray.

nothing whether they need it or not,” according to

Donate. Volunteer,” Lisa Clouse said. She said they

Yvonne Bailey, who volunteers at CGCS weekly. No

aspire to have enough volunteers to staff the store

limits are set on who can shop at the store or how

on Wednesdays 4:30-6:30 p.m., Saturday mornings,

much can be purchased.

and to have a crew of workers that could pick up or

Volunteers who are willing to serve are the biggest

deliver large items. “God’s work is always evolving,”

assets of the Common Good store. Their work

Lisa said, pointing to the new direction of the

begins with soliciting quality donations. CGCS

Common Good Community Store. The group being

plans to seek donations via Facebook posts, church

interviewed—Cheri, Lisa and Yvonne—believes

announcements and word of mouth. Donations are

that this new approach to serve the community

then processed. Items that are gently used and in

dovetails perfectly with the mission of the church:

good condition are placed in the store; items which

Love God. Love Others & Reach the World.

might not sell are passed on to other ministries. Next,

A quick walk through the store reaffirms the

items are priced. Those modest price tags range

store’s namesake—uncommonly good items and

from 50 cents to $50, perhaps $100 for an extremely

prices available for the Common Good.

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BY DANNY MAY

EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON It’s

not very common for somebody to win

it doesn’t resonate, and therefore dampens the sound.

awards the first time they try something. But

Christian came up with a now-patented way to attach

that’s exactly what Owensboro native Joe Christian

the pieces of wood without using glue.

did when he tried his hand at making a stave (a type

The result earned Laudo Drums a second-place

of snare) drum. You see, Joe is not a drummer. He’s a

overall finish at the 2014 Snare Drum Olympics in

singer, songwriter, guitar player, a hobby woodworker,

Nashville, and won first place in the blind competition

and an engineer at heart, but definitely not a drummer.

But by the grace of God, he stumbled upon something in making that drum that no one had ever mastered before.

“You can have an idea,” says Laudo Drums founder

out of a group of more than 20 of the top drum manufacturers in the industry. The unbelievable part is that the drum that won was only the third one Joe ever built.

THE BACK STORY

Joe Christian, “but if you never do anything with it, no

It all started when an old friend from church,

one will ever see the value in it.” Joe’s discovery was

Scott Doughty, asked Joe to make him a stave drum,

an idea that he believed would make a better- sounding

because Scott couldn’t quite get the angles to line up

drum. Traditionally, drum makers use glue to hold the

right since he didn’t have the right equipment. Joe

pieces of stave drums together. But glue isn’t wood, so

did some woodworking as a hobby and made a Cajon

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(hand drum) that Scott was pretty impressed by. So at Scott’s request, Joe decided to give it a shot.

After thinking it over, Joe came up with a revolutionary way to interlock the pieces of wood that didn’t require glue to hold them together.

He truly believes it was inspiration from the Lord. Joe then spent hours meditating, drawing and brainstorming as the design fell into place.

“It took a long time,” Christian admitted.

“There was a lot of math and mechanical drawings involved to come up with the tooling to do what I was wanting to do.” After months of

researching,

planning,

preparing,

and

designing, Joe’s glue-less shell drum was born.

“Once I got it, I worked with a patent lawyer to get the patent for it.”

JOE CHRISTIAN PULLS A PIECE OF WOOD FOR USE IN A SNARE DRUM WHILE WORKING IN HIS SHOP IN DAVIESS COUNTY. PHOTO BY JASON TANNER

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Next, Joe and Scott assembled the first prototype and they were both immediately

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impressed with its tonal quality, sensitivity, and

Snare Drum Olympics in Nashville this past

volume. Joe began lending out the prototype

September. Out of a group of more than 25 drums,

to selected drummers and sound engineers and

including 20 of the top drum manufacturers in

received great feedback. A year later, the patent

the industry, a team of five judges (professional

was granted and a meager production was

drummers and professors) ranked the Laudo

underway.

drum first overall in the blind competition. For

Considering a name for the drum was

the blind competition, the judges sat with their

another journey in itself. After much thought,

backs to the drums and judged them solely on

Joe felt impressed to go with the name “Laudo,”

their sound. The drummers for Brad Paisley

which is Latin for “I praise,” partly because

and Rascall Flatts were two of the five judges.

he wanted to give praise back to God for the

idea, and partly because he hopes it will be an

shell category and won second place in the

instrument of praise as well. Not to mention

public vote.

the phonics had great potential for marketing.

Since the competition, there has been a

A witty name for a witty idea.

lot of interest in Laudo Drums. So far there’s

The drum also placed first in the segmented

been nothing but good feedback. “Everybody

DRUM OLYMPICS

who has played the prototype has really liked

Confident in his product, Joe entered a

it,” Christian said. As for the future of Laudo

Laudo spalted hard maple stave into the 2014

Drums, Christian says he may be interested in

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A CLOSE UP LOOK AT THE GLUE-LESS SHELL OF A LAUDO DRUM

licensing the technique one day. But for now, it’s back to the woodshop to make more hand-crafted, glue-less, award-winning drums.

For more information, pictures, and reviews, visit the website at www.laudodrums.com, or check

2014 SNARE DRUM OLYMPICS FIRST PLACE OVERALL: BLIND JUDGING COMPETITION FIRST PLACE: SEGMENTED SHELL CATEGORY – BLIND FIRST PLACE: SEGMENTED SHELL CATEGORY – OVERALL SECOND PLACE OVERALL: 2014 SNARE DRUM OLYMPICS

out Laudo Drums on Facebook at www.facebook.

SECOND PLACE: SEGMENTED SHELL CATEGORY – SUBJECTIVE

com/laudodrums.

SECOND PLACE: NASHVILLE DRUM SHOW – PUBLIC VOTE

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BY STEVEN N WILSO

taking to the ice with

OWENSBORO RAMPAGE L iving in the South, most of us, including

athleticism and the ability to skate. Namely, high

myself, don’t know a lot about the game of

school hockey takes immense dedication. For the

hockey. I watch the highlights on SportsCenter of

Rampage, their season begins with tryouts in late

shootout goals and the occasional fistfight, but I

July and early August, and doesn’t come to a close

still couldn’t explain exactly what “icing” or “the

until May. During that stretch this season, Cross

crease” means. To be honest, the majority of my

expects that his team will play a total of 50 games

hockey knowledge doesn’t extend much beyond

[up from 35 last year]. Spread out over a 40-week

The Mighty Ducks. Fortunately, I found that my

season, that means the Rampage will play at least

ignorance of the game of hockey isn’t shared by

one game a week for nine or ten consecutive

the younger generation. Thanks to the Rampage,

months. In fact, depending on their schedule,

a local high school hockey club that’s grown in

they may play as many as five games in a single

size and popularity over the last decade, the sport

weekend. Add to that three hours of practice

of hockey is alive and well in Owensboro.

spread out between two nights during the week,

As I learned by interviewing Rampage head

and you start to understand the intense level of

coach Mark Cross and a few of his players, playing

commitment that these players (and their parents)

hockey at this level requires a lot more than

possess.

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Did I mention that practice doesn’t typically

start until 8:00 p.m. or later?

could sense right away that each of the players

Remember,

was excited to be at practice. My conversations

all of the members of the Rampage are high

with a few of the seniors on the team confirmed

school students, juggling academics and other

their love of the game. According to Dalton

extracurricular activities on top of their busy

Boarman, a senior forward from Daviess County

hockey schedules. With that in mind, I fully

High School, Rampage hockey provides an

expected to see the team dragging into The

opportunity to let loose, as well as a chance to

Edge Ice Center at eight o’clock on a Tuesday

play the sport with his best friends. Defensemen

night, exhausted from a full day of school and

Drew Owen and Easton Phelps, both seniors at

homework. What I saw was the exact opposite.

DCHS, echoed Boarman’s sentiments, saying

Just seeing them walk into the building, you

that hanging out with friends at hotels and on

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road trips are some of the best parts of being on the team.

And it’s a good thing the players don’t mind road trips.

Since none of the local high schools sponsors a hockey team, the Rampage have to look beyond the borders of Daviess County for their competition. According to Cross, the Rampage faceoff against high school teams from Oldham County, Louisville, Lexington, and Evansville. In addition, they play club teams in cities from Nashville to Dayton to Indianapolis. Obviously, this requires extensive travel, which, in turn, requires extensive support from parents and coaches. Cross’s son Davis is a member of the team, as are the sons of assistant coaches Brent Cattoor (Beau), Jason Baker (Garrett), Scott McFarland (Mayes) and Aaron McFadden (Keegan). And those parents who don’t serve as coaches spend their time driving, caravanstyle, from city to city each weekend for tournaments.

With the expense of facilities, equipment, tournament registration, hotels and travel, the cost of playing high school hockey adds up quickly.

That’s why, in addition to the

financial support of their players’ parents, the team also relies on the support of the community. This season, Sterett Crane & Rigging stepped up by donating their corporate box to two Nashville Predators games. The team plans to sell the tickets to raise extra funds to cover some of their expenses. Over the years, other individuals in Owensboro have stepped up to help support the team financially, and one anonymous donor even established an endowment to sponsor a local girls’ team.

Judging by the dedication of the players, parents, coaches,

and supporters, one look at the Rampage makes it clear that the

OWENSBORO RAMPAGE ROSTER 86 JAMES ‘GARRETT’ BAKER 4 DALTON BOARMAN 66 BRET BOCIANOSKI 19 CAINE BURKE 8 BEAU CATTOOR 25 NATHANIEL COX 5 GAGE CRABTREE 9 DAVIS CROSS 32 WARREN HAYDEN 80 KEEGAN HUGHES 22 MAYES MCFARLAND 44 DREW OWEN 52 CAMERON PAYNE 14 EASTON PHELPS 99 KIP PRICE 15 MAX PROCTOR 77 CONNOR ROWELL 13 ERIC SCHWENDER 42 DARIAN SMITH 56 AUSTIN TERRY 60 GEORGE TRIPLETT 7 NATHANAEL WILSON MARK CROSS HEAD COACH

sport of hockey has a bright future in the City of Owensboro.

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

C HRI STI AN C ARE AT HOM E

CHRISTIAN CARE AT HOME ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS An Interview with Physical Therapy Assistant Kathy Safreed “I wanted to work in the Physical Therapy field ever since I was a freshman in high school. I firmly believe that God placed it on my heart and has led me to where I am today. I have worked in several other areas of Physical Therapy, but Home Health is what I love. Helping a person manage their home safely and providing them with the means to stay in their home is what I am called to do. I love the relationships that are formed with patients and their families. I am honored by the trust they place in me.” Kathy Safreed, Physical Therapy Assistant, Christian Care At Home Q, How long have you worked as a Physical Therapy Assistant in Home Health?

I’ve worked over 18 years in Home Health.

Q. Why did you choose to work in Home Health and for Christian Care At Home?

My heart’s desire is to help people recover from their illnesses in the comfort of their own home and to help the elderly stay in their homes as long as possible, with improved function and safety. Christian Care At Home shares this mission. We want to build strong relationships so that families trust us as their partner in health care.

Occupational Therapy Our occupational therapists work to improve fine motor skills, upper body strength and coordination to maximize self-care and functional independence with activities of daily living and leisure activities.

Speech Therapy Our speech therapists evaluate and treat hearing, language and swallowing disorders. Our therapists enhance quality of life by providing cognitive rehabilitation to increase safety, memory, improve speech/language expression and comprehension, while addressing specific needs.

Q. What types of conditions & illnesses can Christian Care at Home help with?

We can help patients recover from most illnesses, including: congestive heart failure (CHF), open heart surgery recovery, general weakness, surgery recovery, COPD, falls, diabetes, broken bones, and joint replacements, to name a few.

Q. What makes Christian Care At Home different from other companies and organizations?

We are a faith based company that provides quality care and compassion for others in all stages of life.

We want to help a person physically, emotionally and spiritually by providing professional medical and spiritual care from our chaplains, if desired.

Q. What types of services does Christian Care At Home provide?

Physical Therapy Step by step, our physical therapists work to increase mobility, strength, balance, and coordination. Physical therapy services include: • Fall Prevention assessments • Walking and balance training • Education in the use of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and lifts • Exercise programs to improve independence level

Q. What about help around the house after surgery?

Our home health aides provide and assist with personal care, including bathing, dressing, grooming, hair care and hygiene. They can also help with meal preparation, laundry, and cleaning.

Q. How can someone receive Home Health services from Christian Care At Home?

It’s simple. Just give us a call (270) 686-0033. We will be happy to explain our services and contact your physician. Christian Care accepts Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance.

“I recommend Christian Care At Home highly to my friends and family. They are professional and compassionate.”

---Connie S., wife of former patient 26 OWENSBORO LIVING

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FROM SMALL TOWN TO BIG SCREEN

BY MELODY ANN WALLACE

When Kody Keplinger first heard the term “DUFF” during her senior year at McLean County High School, she never would have imagined that, within five years, it would not only be the title of her first published young adult novel, but also become a major motion picture.

The DUFF, starring Mae Whitman, Robbie Amell, Bella Thorne, and comedian Ken Jeong, is due to hit theaters nationwide on February 20.

In anticipation of the film’s release, Owensboro Living was excited to get to know a little more about the young, now 23-year-old, author.

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In high school were you more of the outgoing or shy type?

I was outgoing in high school, but only to a degree. I was talkative and friendly, but I also felt nervous to go up and sit with people that weren’t my close friends.

I was terrified of embarrassing myself, as most teenagers are, I suspect.

In what ways does Bianca’s character resemble you or your characteristics?

Bianca is not at all autobiographical. She’s just a character that sort of popped into my head. I like to describe her as “me on my worst days.” I’m actually very positive and social. I’d say the only thing Bianca and I have in common is that we both have awesome friends.

Bianca’s character seemed to have a plan in mind to go to college in New York after high school.

Was this your plan as well, and was it a difficult transition going from small town to big city? www.OwensboroLiving.com

I actually had no intentions to move to New York City when college, but I wasn’t super picky about where. It actually wasn’t

It appears as if writing was always part of you. Was publishing a book a goal or dream that was always on your radar?

as dramatic as you’d think going from Kentucky to Manhattan,

I’ve always loved to write, and I dreamed of getting published.

because I had sort of a middle step. I left McLean County and

I never thought it was a possibility until I was a teenager and

went to Ithaca College in upstate New York. It’s sort of a small

decided I wanted to go to school for writing. Even then, I didn’t

town, not much bigger than Owensboro. I lived there for two

think anything I wrote would get published for years to come.

years, then I moved to NYC (which made it) an easier transition.

The DUFF selling was a huge (and wonderful) shock to me.

I was in high school. I knew I wanted to go out of state for

So, I felt at home in Manhattan almost as soon as I arrived.

What is your favorite part of living in NYC? I love how easy it is to get everywhere. Everyone walks or takes public transit, which is wonderfully liberating. It’s so easy to go out and find someplace you’ve never been before. It’s always an adventure.

What has the reader response been to “The DUFF”?

The response to The DUFF has been really positive over all.

I can’t tell you how much it means to me to get emails from teenagers (and sometimes adults) telling me that the book meant something to them. It just blows my mind and makes me so happy to know something I wrote moved someone. It’s interesting to me how different the responses are. Some people

What do you miss most about home?

write to me because the book made them cry or helped them get

Sweet tea. No one knows how to make good sweet tea in

over some of their insecurities. Others write to me because the

New York.

book made them laugh. I kind of love that, though…that the book impacts people in such different ways.

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Did you ever dream that they would make it into a movie?

I think every author has fantasies about film adaptations, but I

Whitman was cast. After that, everything just happened super fast! It’s been a whirlwind for the past year!

never really thought it would happen. Even after the book was

Your fifth book is due out in April?

optioned, I didn’t think it would get this far. I almost still don’t

Yes! My fifth novel, another book for teens, is called Lying Out

believe it, and I’ve seen the movie twice now, and I loved it!

Loud. It will hit shelves near the end of April. It is a companion novel to my first three books, so there are crossovers with my other

It appears from the trailers that the movie might be a bit different than the book. Is it?

characters. It’s about a girl named Sonny, who is an excellent liar,

Yes, the movie and the book are different in some ways, namely

she accidentally falls for him while writing to him via her best

because the book is rather racy, and a totally faithful adaptation

friend’s email account. Her attempts to right the situation only

would (change the rating and) exclude a lot of the audience. I

lead to more lies, tension with her best friend, and a potential

know a lot of readers are concerned about that, but after seeing the

heartbreak.

and how a prank on a boy in her class goes horribly wrong when

film, I felt really happy with it. The film has the same message as the book and the same tone in some ways; it just takes a different

Do you have any advice for young writers?

path to get there. I’ve always said that I was okay with the film

Write often. Write everything. The more you write, the better

being different as long as the message was the same and the movie

you’ll get at writing. Consistency is key.

was good, and I think both of those things are true.

Kody loves to hear from her readers and is active on social media.

What was that process like?

To learn more about Kody, her books, and The DUFF movie, you

The book was optioned in 2009, before it even came out. In 2011,

can visit her at kodykeplinger.com.

CBS Films signed on. Then, in early 2014, I found out Mae

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

EDWARD JONES

WHAT DOES 2015 HOLD IN STORE FOR

INVESTORS?

If you’re an investor, you probably had a pretty good year in 2014.

But what’s in store for 2015?

It’s essentially impossible to make precise predictions about the performance of the financial markets –– but it is possible to identify those economic conditions and market forces that may help shape

outcomes in the investment world for 2015. By paying close attention to these conditions and forces, you can gain some valuable insights as to what investment moves might make sense for you.

Here are a few of these moves:

value of existing bonds typically falls because investors won’t pay

• Consider adding stocks. With stock prices having climbed

full price for your bonds when they can get newly issued ones

higher and higher for more than five years, you might be wondering

that pay higher rates. One way to combat the effects of rising rates

if it’s time to scale back on your ownership of equities. After all, no

is to build a “ladder” consisting of short-, intermediate-, and

“bull” market lasts forever. Still, some factors point to continued

long-term bonds. With such a ladder, you’ll be able to redeem

strength for stocks over the long term. First, we are seeing signs of

your maturing short-term bonds and reinvest them in the new,

improving economic growth; employment gains and low oil prices are giving consumers more confidence, leading to a boost in spending.

Second, corporate earnings –– a key driver of stock prices –– were quite strong in the second half of 2014, and companies appear poised to show more good results in 2015. Third, stocks –– at least largecompany stocks –– are still reasonably valued, as measured by their price-to-earnings ratios (P/E). Given these factors, you might want to think about adding quality stocks to your holdings ––assuming, of course, these stocks can help meet your needs for a balanced portfolio.

And be aware that even the most favorable conditions can’t assure a continued run-up in stock prices, which can and will fluctuate.

higher-paying bonds.

• Look for investment opportunities abroad. Although economic growth has been slow in parts of the world, especially China, many countries have now initiated policies to spur economic growth. These actions can create opportunities for international equity investments. Keep in mind, though, that international investing involves particular risks, such as currency fluctuations and political and economic instability. So if you are considering foreign investments, you may want to consult with a financial professional.

• Prepare for rising interest rates. For several years, interest

There are no guarantees, but by following the above

rates have been at, or near, historical lows. Given the strengthening

suggestions, you may be able to take advantage of what looks to

economy, and the decreased need for stimulus, the Federal Reserve

be a fairly favorable investment environment for 2015. While

may well raise short-term interest rates in 2015, perhaps as early as

you should make the most of your investment decisions based

this summer. But long-term rates may start rising even before then,

on long-term considerations, it’s always a good idea to be attuned

so you may want to take a close look at your bonds and other fixed-

to what’s happening in the world around you –– and to respond

rate investments. As you probably know, when interest rates rise, the

appropriately.

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ARTICLE BY

ASHLEY SORCE

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Kevin Olusola, of Pentatonix fame, talks about his incredible journey to the top and his deeply-rooted foundation in Owensboro.

Owensboro boasts its fair share of homegrown

She said, ‘Well, I guess you are just going to have

talent - sports figures, actors, and artists who have

to take me to the Grammy’s.’ Obviously we were

all moved on from Owensboro to find fame and

kind of joking about it. But when we got the

fortune. But none of them seems more humble

Grammy nomination, I called her and said, ‘Mom,

and deeply appreciative to this community than

you remember when you said I was going to take

Kevin Olusola, who has experienced world-wide

you to the Grammy’s? Well, I’m taking you to the

fame as a member of the band, Pentatonix.

Grammy’s.’ We just burst out. It was euphoria… it

Winning the 2011 TV show competition

was craziness. I mean I am 26 years old. This is not

The Sing Off, Pentatonix has soared to the top

something that normally happens I feel like.”

of Billboard’s Top 200, bested even Beyoncé in

Stories like this are what make Kevin so

YouTube subscribers, and garnered millions of

humble about his fame. Kevin’s father is a

followers through social media, creating a very

psychiatrist, originally from Nigeria, and his

loyal fan base.

mother is a nurse, originally from Grenada.

According to Kevin, the band saw a lot of

Both of his parents made sacrifices to give their

“wow” moments in 2014.

three children every opportunity they wanted,

“When our Christmas album went platinum…

and that sacrifice has always been a driving force

that was a big ‘wow’ moment, because we were

behind Kevin’s push for success. Kevin accredits

only one of four albums to go platinum last year.

their influence as one reason he has been able to

So we had one of the highest selling albums last

accomplish so much in 26 years. He also credits

year, which is insane because we are an a cappella

growing up in a community like Owensboro as

group.”

the other significant factor in both his grounded

Pentatonix

Grammy

nature and his achievements. In fact, this was a

nomination for “Best Arrangement, Instrumental

major reason the Olusola family chose to move

or A Cappella” for their song “Daft Punk.” “When

from Philadelphia to Owensboro when Kevin was

we got the Grammy nomination, that was a very

in the third grade.

big ‘wow’ moment, especially for me,” Kevin

After finishing residency at Albert Einstein

said. “I have a story where I was in high school

Medical Center, Kevin’s father decided to relocate

or before high school where I told my mom that

his family to a safer, more stable environment.

I was going to take her to the prom and I didn’t.

According to Kevin, “He was kind of over being

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received

the

2014

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2015

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in big cities because of all the crime that was happening

the standards of the arts,” Kevin said. “That’s just the

at that time. He said, ‘I kind of want to move to the safest

great thing about Kentucky in general. They put so much

place in America,’ somewhere that’s really nice, really

money into state funding for the arts. I think Owensboro

chill, very safe, especially safe. And he found Owensboro,

was a big recipient of that and was really influenced by

Kentucky.”

that. There is just so much great music there, just because

While most kids Kevin’s age may have hated moving

the community supports it. And when the community

from all the excitement a big city offers, this was not the

supports something, everyone goes all in and I love that.”

case for Kevin. “I think that Owensboro was a great place

for me to grow up to meet amazing people, to understand

music, he never intended for it to be his career. He left

kindness, and being nice, and being a good person,”

OHS in his sophomore year to attend boarding school at

Kevin said. “I think some of these big cities, there’s a

Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts. While in

lot of distractions. The cool thing about Owensboro is

boarding school, he continued to play cello and joined an

that there are not that many distractions… so you can

a cappella group, where he began honing his beatboxing

focus on raising a family; you can focus on teaching your

skills. After graduation, Kevin moved on to Yale

children good skills to be a good person. I definitely

University, where he began studying pre-medicine and

learned that stuff.”

East Asian studies. But musical opportunities continued

When the Olusola family arrived in Owensboro,

to surface. He entered an online competition, “Celebrate

Kevin attended Sutton Elementary School. Kevin

and Collaborate with Yoyo Ma,” where he won second

then moved on to the Owensboro 5-6 Center and later

place. World-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma told Kevin his

Owensboro High School. The music programs he

music was “innovative and unexpected.” Kevin then

participated in through Owensboro Public Schools

opened for KRS-One, a hip-hop star, who told Kevin he

and other community organizations hold the fondest

had real potential in the world of rap. Despite being from

memories for Kevin.

two ends of the musical spectrum, Kevin took the words

Kevin especially remembers his cello teacher, Dr.

of these two artists as a sign. He then turned to his faith

Joan Mack, who he recognizes as a great influence on

for answers.

him. “She is the first teacher I ever had, and she helped

me be the cellist I am today – getting those fundamentals

said, “God, I think you’re crazy. But I really, for some

and learning how to express myself through the cello,”

random reason, believe that you want me to do music

Kevin said. “Dr. Mack – she was the first person to teach

as a career. I am not the best. I am not somebody who

me how to learn about music, how to go and seek new

practiced all the time or continuously focused on this.

ideas, and understand the fundamentals of playing the

But I believe you want me to do this. But God, if you

cello. I really liked that. I feel like I have applied that in

want me to do this, you are going to have to make it

so many things. Beatboxing is something that I kind of

happen, because I obviously don’t know what I am doing.

taught myself, but I think the mindset that she gave me

After that, I knew I couldn’t go back on my word.”

and how to study music really helped me figure out how

While studying Chinese for a year and a half on a

to use my skills.”

Yale Fellowship in China, he was inspired to combine

Kevin also credits Owensboro’s emphasis on the arts

his two talents of cello and beatboxing. “I posted a video

as a major factor contributing to his love of music and

of me “celloboxing” --playing cello and beatboxing

playing cello. “There are just so many opportunities,

simultaneously-- a piece by Mark Summers called

especially in the arts, where people can support and raise

“Julie-O,” which went viral. From that, I was called by

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Although Kevin loved the cello and felt connected to

Getting down on his knees in his dorm library, Kevin

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Kevin has not been back to Owensboro since Christmas 2011, so Owensboro Living thought it would be fun to test just how “Owensboro” he really is… We think he passed! What do you think?

What would be your favorite thing Owensboro is

Did the stairs at the public library scare you?

known for?

Yes! Absolutely. AB-solutely!

Bluegrass Music for sure. And the International BBQ Festival. Because you know, every summer, if I was in

How do you pronounce the street that Owens-

Owensboro, I would for sure attend, because that was

boro High School is on?

some of the greatest times!

Fred-rick-uh. Do people say Fred-ree-cuh? No, it’s Fred-rick-uh. Don’t play!

Oh, and also the New Year’s Eve Party at the River Park Center. I remember it was a family night. Everyone would

Is it a soda, a pop or a coke?

come. There was popcorn. I used to do that every New

If it’s a Coke-Cola, I call it a Coke. But I call it soda.

Year’s Eve growing up in Owensboro and I loved it!

I feel like you’re Canadian if you say pop.

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38 OWENSBORO LIVING

Gungor to go on tour with them and the David

But I think that’s kind of one of the best things that

Crowder Band, in addition to audition with three

could have happened to us, because from there we

singers from Texas and a bass singer from central

were able to kind of create the brand that we wanted

California for NBC’s The Sing-Off.”

to create, and figure out what ticks for us and what

With opportunities like these, Kevin recognizes

ticks for the audience. I think we figured that out,

that his journey to success has been incredible.

so we have a better understanding of self, so that if

Still, it hasn’t lacked in setbacks. “There haven’t

we do go to another label, which we are now… we

really been any worst moments, but there have

are signed to RCA, they said ‘We can’t change you

definitely been setbacks,” Kevin said. “For

guys because you have built something that people

example, when we won the TV show The Sing-Off,

want. So continue with that. We will just figure out

three weeks later we got dropped as an artist by our

how we take that and market it to a wider audience.’

label, Epic Records, because they just didn’t believe

So those setbacks have really been a blessing in

that a cappella music could have a significant place

disguise.”

in the industry. I can’t blame them for that. At that

time, there hadn’t been any a cappella groups that

Pentatonix’s goal for the genre, Kevin says, “I think

had mainstream success, which these labels want.

a cappella has done some amazing things these past

. FEBRUARY / MARCH 2015

When asked about the future of a cappella and

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few years with Pitch Perfect and Glee, but I think for our band, what we just want to do is make great music. Whether people see it as a cappella or not, honestly. We literally just see ourselves as a normal band, we just happen to use our voices.

The sound that you hear is not us trying to mimic different instruments, this is voices. We want to see if our music as Pentatonix has a place in this industry. Can we have chart-topping hits? Can we win Grammies? Can we headline big tours or be a supporting act for a big headlining tour? We just want to be a normal band that everyone enjoys, we just happen to not use instruments.”

Although he has no plans of leaving the band, Kevin is set to release a solo album sometime this year. It will feature Kevin playing cello and other stringed instruments, beatboxing, and singing.

“I think the best part of this journey is learning about myself in the context of music and working. I think the success, yeah, you see on paper. But the thing about that success is that I had to learn how to get to that place. You have to continuously seek who you are. That search for self has been so important to this journey. I feel like I have a better understanding of who I am and where I want to go in my life, musically, professionally, and also as a person, just where I want to be.”

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

DAYMAR COLLEG E

YOUR NURSING FUTURE T

he American Association of Colleges of Nursing expects the future to hold a noticeable shortage of Registered Nurses in the United States. Health Care Reform has caused more Americans to access health care. As the forefront faces of most health care facilities, Registered Nurses will be in high demand according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The workforce is predicted to increase 19%, including approximately 525,000 replacement nurses, bringing the total job outlook for RNs to 1.05 million by 2022. According to AACN, many nursing program applicants are being wait-listed by schools because they don’t have the funding or facilities to teach the number of students necessary to meet demand.

The job security is exciting for those contemplating a nursing career. Moreover, for those living in the Owensboro area it’s very exciting, because at Daymar College you don’t have to be wait-listed and classes begin every quarter. Daymar’s Nursing Program helps prepare students for their NCLEX-RN® “boards.” Upon passing, students qualify for licensure eligibility as Registered Nurses.

Daymar College sets itself apart from other nursing programs with its impressive faculty, thorough curriculum, and modern simulation lab. Leading this innovative program is Dr. Michael Wayne Rager, DNP, PhD(c), MSN, FNP-BC, APRN, CNE. Dr. Rager is the Owensboro Campus Dean and Dean of Nursing. His credentials include Nurse Practitioner of the Year by Kentucky Coalition of Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Midwives, Vice President of the Kentucky Nurses Association, the publication of several professional manuscripts, and professional content reviewer for various textbooks along with the Journal for Nurse Practitioners. The curriculum offered at Daymar was redesigned by Dr. Rager and will soon graduate students who’ve been prepared solely by this sequence of curriculum. “I believe this curriculum and integrated competency testing/review throughout will place us on a new path that not only includes improved NCLEX-RN® success, but also distinguished graduates to serve our communities, as I expect nothing less,” said Dr. Rager. “The faculty and I desire for our graduates to be known for their keen critical thinking and nursing skills, ability to provide care supported by the latest scientific evidence, and deliver that care cost effectively. We also expect our graduates to embody leadership and seek opportunities to give back to their community.”

Each course includes Integrated Community Engagement Activities that provide opportunities for students to expand their clinical knowledge, while providing community education and health screenings. The faculty on staff continue to practice clinically in their field so they’re able to bring current nursing experience to the classroom. “It is important that faculty continue to practice clinically, so they may share up-to-date information with the students in the

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classroom and during clinical rotations.” “I want our graduates to be the best, and it begins with a faculty who is well connected with current practices and trends,” commented Dr. Rager. Daymar College provides additional learning opportunities through the simulation lab. The lab introduces students to scenarios not typically encountered in clinical rotations, and helps prepare them for the daily tasks of the workplace through the use of simulation mannequins programmed with a specific ailment, gender, nationality or religion and to react as a real person would.

Daymar also sets itself apart by considering the clinical skills, technical skills, and the “soft skills” RNs may need to be ranked higher on an employer’s wish list. Soft skills include communication, professionalism, teamwork, attitude and problem solving. Daymar recently partnered with Purposely, a company that provides educational tools to colleges and universities across the nation, to launch a program called Career Platform to all Daymar College students. “We partnered with Purposely to provide our students with additional resources to develop professionalism while they are learning the program-specific skills to help them be successful in their career field,” said Tina Lynch, Corporate Career Services Trainer for Daymar College.

Nursing students are also introduced to each element of the American Nurses Association’s Code of Ethics throughout the program to help prepare them for safe and competent nursing practice.

Nurses adhering to this code of ethics demonstrate proficiency, continuing self-improvement and personal self-care.

Registered Nurses interested in advancing their career should also contact Daymar College to learn more about the newly redesigned 100% Online RN to BSN Program that can be completed in approximately one year by most students with qualifying transferable credits. “In our recently redesigned curriculum, essential elements for nurse leaders are emphasized. According to AACN, many organizations are expected to require this credential by 2020.

It’s expected that 80% of Registered Nurses will hold this credential by 2020; therefore we offer RNs a convenient pathway to accomplish this requirement with coursework that includes essential elements to enhance the Registered Nurses’ knowledge base and leadership abilities. Additionally, the faculty of the RN to BSN program is local and students may already have a connection; creating a more comfortable online learning experience,” remarked Dr. Rager.

For more information or to schedule an appointment to discuss your nursing future contact us: -Email Dr. Rager: mrager@daymarcollege.edu -www.daymarcollege.edu/programs/nursing -(270) 926-4040

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President George H.W. Bush, along with President-elect Bill Clinton, followed by House Speaker Thomas Foley of Washington, left, and Sen. Wendell Ford, chairman of the Inaugural Committee, leave the White House, Jan 20, 1993 in Washington for Capitol Hill and the swearing in of Clinton as the nation’s 42nd president. (AP Photo/Doug Mills)

WENDELL FORD REMEMBERING

On

Thursday,

January

22,

2015,

Owensboro lost one of our most beloved and respected citizens. The

death of Senator Wendell H. Ford made national news, even being reported by The New York Times.

President Obama released a statement that night

BY DANNY MAY

saying, “Few in politics were as admired as he, and few have had as great an impact on his beloved Kentucky.” Vice President Biden said, “Wendell was an extremely effective senator and a great personal friend whose advice I sought long after he had left the Senate. I will miss him.”

Ford’s political career was legendary.

He was

the first person to be successively elected lieutenant

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governor, governor, and U.S. Senator in Kentucky history. He served for twenty-four years in the U.S. Senate, serving as both Majority and Minority Whip.

He was born in Thruston, graduated from Daviess County High School, and attended the University of Kentucky until his service in WWII. After the war, he came back to Owensboro to work for his family’s insurance firm: E.M. Ford and Co. Ford got his political start as president of the Jaycees, the Junior Chamber of Commerce, which helped him gain attention across the state and led to his first job in Frankfort as chief assistant to Gov. Bert T. Combs from 1959 to 1961. He was then elected State Senator in 1965, Lieutenant Governor in 1967, and Governor of Kentucky in 1971, serving three years until he was elected to the US Senate in 1974. Ford’s 24-year term was the longest running senate seat in Kentucky history until Mitch McConnell surpassed him in 2009.

After he retired from the senate in 1999, Ford

was a consultant for a Washington lobbyist group,

Former U.S. Sen. Wendell Ford sits near his wife Jean on Monday, Sept. 8, 2014, during a combined celebration of Wendell Ford’s 90th birthday and the opening of a new exhibit in the Wendell H. Ford Government Center at the Owensboro Museum of Science and History, in Owensboro, Ky. (AP Photo/The Messenger-Inquirer, Jenny Sevcik)

and was involved in campaigns right up to the end.

Owensboro Democratic Party Chair Russ Wilkey remembers, “We were helping the Allison Grimes campaign and Senator Ford would show up at every event and rally, even when he wasn’t in the best of health. He’d be right there campaigning for her from his wheelchair. At one stop, I leaned over to him and said, ‘You know, you don’t really need to come to all of these.’ He looked up at me and said, ‘This is my life.’ And it was.”

Senator Ford had a knack for remembering

facts and figures about national and statewide

“WENDELL LEAVES BEHIND AN EXTRAORDINARY LEGACY OF SERVICE, AND A COMMONWEALTH AND COUNTRY THAT ARE STRONGER AND FAIRER THANKS TO HIM.” -PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

races. “He knew who was running in every county in Kentucky,” Wilkey recalls. He also had a great memory for remembering names. “Not only would he call people by name, he would ask about their

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family members by name too,” Wilkey said. “He just had a great love of people.”

His legacy lives on in the Wendell H. Ford Government

Education Center exhibit at the Owensboro Museum of Science and History. Each year, thousands of high school students from around the region tour the center. President Bill Clinton made an appearance at a fundraiser for the center last March.

In honor of Senator Ford, the City of Owensboro

lowered all city flags to half-staff until after his funeral.

Mayor Ron Payne commented, “My earliest memory of the Senator was the day I graduated from Brescia College in May of 1972. This was the same day that Senator Ford, then Governor Ford, received an honorary doctorate from

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Brescia College. I admired him then and I admire him now. physical welfare of his fellow man.’ He spent the rest of his life He contributed much to our community, especially in the area

doing just that. I thank God for His gift of Wendell Ford. On

of transportation, our airport, education, veterans’ benefits

behalf of everyone at the City of Owensboro, we send our most

and much more. I, for one, will miss his wit and wisdom,

sincere condolences to his family and thank them for sharing

as I sought his advice on many occasions. He had a way of

him with us and the nation.”

making his point using wit and humor in a manner similar to

Will Rodgers and Abraham Lincoln. I will never forget his

Owensboro after being diagnosed with lung cancer in July.

comment to me in the early years of our downtown renovation

He was 90 years old.

project, ‘Mayor, when they take your hide off for the first time,

President Obama closed his statement with these

it grows back much thicker.’ I suppose this was his way of

sentiments, “Wendell leaves behind an extraordinary legacy

encouraging me to stay the course. Sister Joan Marie Lechner,

of service, and a Commonwealth and country that are stronger

president of Brescia College, said it best in a speech honoring

and fairer thanks to him. Michelle and I send our condolences

the Senator, ‘Today, it is a privilege to honor Wendell Ford –

to his wife Jean and all the members of the Ford family.”

Senator Ford died peacefully at his home here in

a man who has dedicated himself to the social, cultural and

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BY GAIL E. KIRKLAND

from square

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The five faithful continue to produce beautiful heirloom quilt designs to grace barns, pool houses, out-buildings and even garages throughout the countryside of Daviess County.

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J

oyce Brown, Leslie Carlisle, Lelia Gaines,

Lynn Heady and Jackie Snow meet twice

exception of those hung at Panther Creek and

weekly, Mondays and Fridays, in donated studio

Yellow Creek Park. That pattern depicts the

space at Owensboro Grain’s Office building, to

American flag, which originally had 15 instead

design and paint brilliant quilt patterns onto

of 13 stripes. The painters donated these quilt

square boards of varying sizes.

paintings, which have plaques placed alongside

The largest quilt this group has produced is

them explaining the history of the flag to park

visible to passersby traveling Second Street and

visitors. Kentucky was the 15th state, and that

motorists crossing the Glover Cary Bridge; the

flag’s 15 stripes represented each of the 15 states

colorful 16-by-16 foot painting of a mariner’s

in the Union. Another quilt pattern depicting

compass with the RiverPark logo in the

the Soap Box Derby was donated to Ben Hawes

center hangs on the east side of the RiverPark

Park. In Eastern Kentucky, the barn quilts are

Center. According to this jovial group, “It took

being incorporated into school art departments,

FOREVER—a long time to complete.” They

teaching the students about the historical

started in November and the quilt was finished

significance of quilting.

in June and hung in July. Since they coordinate

their painting schedule with the Daviess County

on barns began in Ohio in 1989 with Donna

Schools’ calendar, the extensive number of snow

Sue Groves’ desire to honor her mother’s

days last year delayed their progress throughout

Appalachian heritage. Her dream was to get 19

the winter.

more squares painted for a sampler quilt trail,

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No repeat color patterns are used, with the

The concept of painting quilt patterns

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as 20 squares typically complete a full quilt. That dream

out the design in pencil onto the metal boards. Each color is

has been extended through the efforts of these ladies and an

painted separately and “taped off ” from the next color before

estimated 15-20 others which have created more than 150

painting. Joyce is the “master taper,” according to the other

quilt paintings since organizing in 2010. Forty-two of the 50

painters. Taping is an extremely tedious step which requires

states have quilt trails. The Ohio County painters taught this

great precision. Sign paint is used to provide vivid colors

group the process of barn quilt painting and the group has

that will withstand the assault of extreme weather conditions

paid it forward by teaching other groups.

over time. Prior to delivery, the quilt is given an extra coat

From its inception, barn quilt painting has promoted a

of protection via automotive car wax. Upon completion, the

three-fold purpose: to preserve quilting; to encourage the

quilt is delivered to the customer. (Husbands generally lend

preservation of old barns; and to promote agri-tourism.

their assistance in this step.) Next, the Daviess County Road

Kentucky is home to about 800 painted quilts.

Department is contacted to request their assistance in hanging

the larger barn quilts, which require heavy-duty equipment

The whole process begins with a call to the Daviess

County Extension Service (270-685-8480) to request a barn

like a bucket truck.

quilt. Either the requestor submits an original design or

selects an established quilt pattern for the project. Then they

project of this magnitude? Joyce had seen quilts in Scott and

meet with the barn quilt painters to sign a contract, choose

Elliott counties on their barn quilt trail, so when she found

colors from a paint chart and pay according to the size of the

out this group was organizing, she jumped to join them. “I

quilt: 1 x 1 = $50, 2 x 2 = $75, 3 x 3 = $100, 4 x 4 = $125,

was at a retired teachers meeting where they had a craft fair.

with the largest size, an 8 x 8 = $300. Prices include four

Lelia was there selling the notecards (depicting various barn

colors of choice, plus white. Next, the pattern is transferred to

quilts in the county) and was commenting on the cards. Lelia

a paper grid and colored. This paper pattern is used to draw

explained what the group was doing and said, ‘Oh, you need to

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What prompted these ladies to become involved with a

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49

come sometime,’” Leslie said. She did just that, and has been

grandmother has ordered a replacement barn quilt, which the

helping ever since.

group will also be painting. Since McLean County does not

Jackie knew that Lynn was into toile painting and asked

have an organized group of barn quilt painters, the Daviess

her to join the group. “I went to the first meeting thinking

County group will provide the painting. Generally, the

it was just about barn quilts, not realizing they were painting,

painters do not cross county lines.

and I’ve been going ever since. It’s just a passion,” Jackie said.

“Each quilt has a story and some of those stories are very

which is held during the summer in conjunction with other

special,” she explained.

“I am not a craft person. I don’t quilt, don’t sew . . . don’t

do anything. I went with Jackie to the first meeting and I thought this might be something I could do,” Lelia said. Her co-workers quickly acknowledged that Leila is very good at what she does.

Sources of inspiration come from grandmothers’ quilts,

parents’ wedding quilts, quilting magazines, farm activities,

This same group is responsible for the Barn Quilt Tour,

key events such as the annual Quilt Show ($20 per person for a half-day tour). Over 30 quilts are involved in the 3-hour narrated tour—in either the east or west county. The painters receive no financial assistance from outside sources, and although there’s no expense to the painters, they generously give of their time. As a non-profit, any extra monies acquired during the fiscal year are donated back to other community

or the Internet. Many of the barn quilts reflect what that farm

groups like Puzzle Pieces, Mary Kendall Home, colleges,

is known for, such as the farm’s name or what it produces. Just

universities, 4-H and The Humane Society.

recently, a bride commissioned the group to paint a double

wedding ring barn quilt in her bridesmaids’ colors. The quilt

on the table: a quilt depicting messages for slaves fleeing

was originally hung in McLean County, where she married

the South to be hung at Owensboro’s Museum of Science &

on her grandparents’ farm, but it is being moved to a Daviess

History, and a set of miniature quilt squares for the Fine Art

County farm where the couple will live (in Knottsville). The

Museum’s Holiday Forest Festival of Trees.

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Presently, the barn quilt painters have several squares

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&

Katie

Matt

PHOTOS BY DREAM COPY PHOTOGRAPHY

JUNE 7TH, 2014 I am one lucky girl who found an amazing guy to call my husband. We had two different weddings just 9 days apart.

He went along with it all without complaining! We are both Catholics but I have always had the dream of getting married on my family’s orchard. So we had a church wedding and our dream wedding!

Growing up on the orchard, I always wanted the orchard avenue to be the aisle that my dad walked me down. All the trees are over 100 years old, which made the pictures that Dream Copy took look beautiful!

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My dad and I grew over 50 all white and green flowering hanging baskets to decorate the avenue and reception area.

With the help of family, friends, and Sally from Welborns, the wedding building was decorated with an elegant charm! The best part about having a country wedding is that it was laid back, no stress, and EVERYONE got to relax and have fun! With the help of Maggie’s Cakes, Disc Daddy, and Odelia’s who were wonderful and very easy to work with.

In our eyes, our country wedding was perfect and exactly what we always wanted! -Katie Reid Clark

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&

Amanda Mark

SEPTEMBER 27TH, 2014 Mark and I met at work in 2011. Our coworkers kept telling us repeatedly that we were “in love” and just didn’t realize it. We were the last ones to come to terms with it, and in September 2012, we knew we were done for. All those times people had told us individually, “When you know, you know.”

We moved in together in November, and started the process of buying a house in February. In August 2012, we finally moved in to our first home, which we absolutely love. Mark proposed at our housewarming party the following month, on the rooftop in front of all our friends and family.

We wanted our wedding to reflect our religious traditions and our values. I had never been attached to the idea of getting married in a church, so we decided on an outdoor space that was very dear to Mark’s heart: Harmonie State Park in New Harmony.

We had also said “I love you” for the first time on a picnic there. We are definitely huge nerds, so we wanted to incorporate as many subtle homages to our favorite movies, stories, and hobbies as possible.

Our ceremony was held on September 27, 2014, and included programs were replicas

PHOTOS BY JAA STUDIOS

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of the Marauder’s Map from Harry Potter.

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We painted handmade signs that

He managed to get each member

had quotes from Lord of the Rings,

of the wedding party their very

the Bible, Dave Matthews, and the

own wand, handmade by one of

Hunger Games to prop up near the

his coworkers, so they could help

ceremony site. The groom’s cake

“seal” our vows just like they do in

was science & math-themed on the

the Harry Potter stories (which I

bottom, and Labyrinth-themed on

have cherished from the time I was

the top. And Mark even coordinated

small). The entire day was magical,

a massive surprise for me with

and went off without a hitch. It was

the bridesmaids and groomsmen

everything we both ever dreamed

during our “Unbreakable Vows.”

of. -Amanda Coburn

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ONE-STOP BRIDAL SHOP

A

bbington’s understands that saying yes to the dress is one of the most highly anticipated events in planning a wedding. With 35 years of experience and a vast selection of gowns, Abington's offers a customized experience in selecting the perfect fit and style for every bride. In addition to finding the perfect dress, they are a full-service bridal shop, complete with other wedding apparel, shoes, jewelry, alterations, tuxedo measurements, and a wedding planner.

One of the first things a bride pictures when she imagines her wedding is the dress. Every bride is looking for a gown that is unique, complimentary of her style, and within her budget. With over 3,500 dresses in stock, you are sure to find a dress at Abbington’s that makes you feel beautiful. Although most brides have an idea of the silhouette, fabric, detail, and style of the gown they would like to try on, it is not imperative. Choosing a gown in a collection this size can be effortless for a bride when she is working with Abbington’s experienced staff, trained to pull gowns that meet the bride’s specifications and compliment the overall theme of the wedding whether it be traditional or contemporary. It is important to Abington’s to make the search for your dress as stress free as possible, which is why they make it their personal policy to not show you a dress that is out of your budget. Abbington’s is also selective in the designers they showcase to ensure that every bride experiences the special moment of finding “THE ONE.” Whether you want to look classic or modern, glamorous or elegant, Abbington’s has the dress for you.

In addition, Abbington’s wedding stylist can outfit every member of the bridal party. Dresses for the flower girl, mother of the bride/groom, and bridesmaids, can be selected, ordered, sized and altered in the store.

Tuxedo rental for the groom, father of the bride/ groom, groomsmen, and ushers is also available.

Amidst the joy of the engagement and the exchanging of the wedding vows approaching there is much planning and preparation that goes into bringing

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abbington’s

bridal house a bride’s vision to life. As a full service bridal shop, Abbington’s can assist you beyond wedding attire, giving you a completely customized experience by offering a wedding planning service. Using their experience and expertise ensures that no detail big or small will be overlooked and that the wedding will be personalized to the bride and groom. Part of the service they provide as a wedding planner is to act as a liaison between the bride and local wedding vendors.

By partnering with Abbington's you can plan and reserve venues, decorations, transportation, musicians, caterers, and more. Regardless of the level of service you choose, Abbington’s is committed to making the wedding a one-of-a-kind event, reflecting the personal style of the bride and groom. Their goal in providing wedding planning services is to eliminate stress and give peace of mind to the bride and groom leading up to their nuptials.

EXPERT ADVICE FROM THE OWNER: WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE • Purchase your dress 6 months in advance allowing time for special ordering and alterations • Reserve and pay for wedding and reception venue • Find mother of the bride dress (moms tend to take care of everyone else first) • Order bridesmaid dresses and select tuxedos • Contact vendors to reserve dates

TIP FOR THE BRIDE: “Do not order ring bearer or flower girl’s attire too early because kids grow like weeds.”

As a full service bridal store, Abington's is a onestop shop. They believe that a successful wedding is a product of a bride surrounding herself with the highest quality merchant and service providers, because when you work with experience, you can achieve the wedding of your dreams.

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limos by

knight W

lifestage

videos

TRAVELING IN STYLE

hen it comes to traveling in style, Limos by Knight is your first choice. They have been serving Owensboro and the

surrounding area since 1998 with one of the largest fleets of limousines in Western Kentucky and the Tri-state. With a fleet of 10 and 14-passenger Limousines, a luxury Lincoln Town Car L-Series and the Black Beauty Lincoln Navigator, Limos by Knight can accommodate parties of all sizes. Each of their vehicles features a TV, DVD, CD player or mp3 and dual air, to guarantee a ride in style and comfort. Limos by Knight wedding services can include vehicles for the rehearsal dinner, pictures, wedding, reception (shuttle), and after-reception transportation. For all your special occasions from weddings to birthdays to graduations, or just a night on the town, Limos by Knight is committed to make the celebration even more memorable! For more information and to get a customized package catered to your needs call 270-684-4688 (toll free 877836-5842), email them at info@limosbyknight.com, or use their convenient online contact form.

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RELIVE YOUR SPECIAL DAY

Y

our wedding is a one-time event and should be documented. You can never go back and do it again.

98% of all newlyweds recommend to others that their wedding be professionally filmed. Don’t deny your children the opportunity to see Mom and Dad getting married and don’t deny yourself the opportunity to relive that day on every anniversary and far into the future. I understand that professional wedding videography is an investment and budgets these days are tight, but there are methods and means to help make it affordable. I always welcome the opportunity to discuss our packages and how you can benefit from some of our packages. Give me a call at (270)485-3858,email David@lifestagevideos. com or visit my website at Lifestagevideos.com to see the packages and services we offer.

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dream copy

photography

K

COUNT ON AWARD-WINNING PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY

enny has always been drawn towards creative endeavors. His

September of 2014. And their business, Dream Copy Photography,

meticulous side makes it a point to research and immerse

is a full-service, award-winning professional photography

himself in every interest that he has. This first began with playing

studio. Dream Copy Photography is also a fixture of downtown

guitar, then quickly gravitated towards an interest in web design

Owensboro, where Kenny and Debra have lived and worked for

and Photoshop. Naturally, Photoshop led him into exploring

over ten years. Their love of Owensboro is also evident in their

photography as a hobby. It didn’t take long for that new passion

involvement with local charities, including Owensboro Dance

to turn into a career. After seeing Kenny’s photographs, friends

Theatre and Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky.

began requesting portrait sessions and wedding photography in his unique style. As his experience and education grew, it seemed

The Kings attend seminars and workshops yearly for continued

only natural to work towards starting a business. His wife Debra

education and inspiration. They are also active members of the

began learning the business side of photography and started

Professional Photographers of America, The PhotoPro Network

assisting in Kenny’s photo shoots. Upon seeing how quickly their

and the Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Foundation. Last year, Kenny

new endeavor was growing, Kenny and Debra decided to leave

was asked to teach a class on high school senior photography

their day jobs to pursue photography full time.

at the PhotoPro Networks Summer School event. Kenny and Debra also created and host an online forum of dozens of local

Kenny is now the only Certified Professional Photographer in

photographers that they mentor to help ensure the same respect

Daviess County, receiving his accreditation from the PPA in

for the industry and its continued success locally.

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Wedding Checklist

10–12 Months To Go...

Work out your budget and establish your top priorities— determine where you want to save and where you want to splurge

Find ideas. Start talking to friends and browsing Pinterest, bridal blogs and magazines to help choose your wedding style and color palette. If you’re like most brides, you’ve probably already thought about these things a time or two.

Begin compiling your guest list so you’ll have a count when determining venue, food, etc.

Choose your wedding party—who do you want by your side at the altar?

Locate a great venue for your rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception. Once you’ve chosen a spot, make sure to promptly reserve your date. Also, know what questions to ask when evaluating a wedding venue, i.e. whether they allow outside catering, what other events are scheduled nearby on your chosen date.

Once you have a date chosen, make sure to remind your guests to save it! It’s a great idea to send out Save-theDate cards or emails, especially for out-of-town guests. It’s also smart to create your own wedding blog, and let your invitees know about it.

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Pick the perfect dress and begin assembling the ideal ensemble. Need inspiration? Visit a wedding dress trunk show or bridal fair.

Choose your vendors, including: • Caterer • Photographer/Videographer • Florist/Decorator • Driver • DJ/Musicians When you hire a vendor, make sure to get all the details in writing!

Already feeling overwhelmed? Consider hiring a Wedding Planner.

Another way to minimize stress and take your mind off some of the tough decisions: Start dreaming up your honeymoon. Nothing says relaxing like picturing yourself on the beach.

6–9 Months To Go...

Continue researching, interviewing and booking vendors. And don’t forget: When you hire one make sure to put everything in writing!

Decide on arrangements with your floral designer.

Schedule a tasting and choose your wedding cake with your baker/cake designer.

Hire the DJ/Entertainment for your ceremony and reception.

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Discuss the style and wording of your wedding invitations with a stationer.

Create your gift registry (and don’t forget to update your wedding website!).

Arrange hotel room blocks for out-of-town guests and book your own suite for the wedding night.

Shop for bridesmaid/flower girl dresses and give your attendants clear instructions on how to place their orders.

Arrange and book any necessary transportation for before and after the ceremony and reception.

Go over bridal shower/bachelorette details and the guest list with the person(s) hosting your party.

3-5 Months To Go...

Book the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner locations. If you’re including entertainment or specialty details like a groom’s cake, now’s the time to lock in these elements.

Put together your rehearsal dinner guest list.

Make childcare arrangements for your guests’ kids.

Reserve all necessary party rentals and linens.

Order wedding favors for your guests.

Shop for and reserve men’s formalwear (And make sure to remind the groomsmen to pick up their tuxes on time.)

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Concentrate on finalizing the: • Guest list. Get everyone’s mailing address.

• Invitation wording. Also consider additional stationery (programs, menu cards, lace cards, thank-you cards, etc.). Schedule a pickup or delivery date for your invites.

• Ceremony readings and vows.

• Menu, beverage and catering details.

• Timeline of the reception formalities, including toasts, first dance, etc.

Do a makeup & hair trial and book your stylists. While you’re at it, come up with your own beauty and fitness regimen to be camera-ready for the big day.

Shop for and purchase your wedding rings.

Finalize honeymoon plans and obtain all necessary documents (are you sure your passports are up to date?).

4-6 weeks To Go...

You’re getting close... Mail out those invitations! Have a game plan for recording the RSVPs and meal choices.

Touch base with your vendors to confirm date, deposits and details.

Start researching marriage license requirements and name-change paperwork.

Begin your dress fittings. Be sure to buy the appropriate undergarments beforehand.

So you think you can’t dance? Consider taking a dance lesson with your fiancé—a good way to break in your bridal shoes!

Give the wedding party a nudge—make sure they’ve ordered all necessary attire.

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Write thank-you cards for shower gifts and any early wedding gifts received.

Purchase gifts for the members of the wedding party.

Have your final dress fitting. Bring your shoes and accessories for the full impact.

the day before

Make sure all wedding-day items are packed/laid out and ready to go! (Don’t forget the rings and marriage license!)

Figure out tips and final payments for vendors. Put them in clearly marked envelopes and give them to the Best Man or another person you trust to hand out at the reception.

Assign someone to pack up your gifts/belongings after the reception (don’t forget the top tier of your cake!).

Enjoy a mani-pedi.

Attend the rehearsal and dinner. Now’s the time to give out wedding party gifts.

here comes the bride

Allow plenty of time to get ready.

Do the rounds at your wedding—greet everyone and thank them for coming.

Take a deep breath. Stop to appreciate your new spouse and the day that you spent so much time planning!

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JAA

STudios

J

AA Studios is a two-person photography team with a deep love for photography and expression of creativity. We are continuously on the search for fun and unique couples that are fed up with boring wedding photos.

It is so important that couples find photographers that match the exact style they envision for their wedding day. With a passion for creating distinctive images that show real emotion, our style can be described as photojournalistic with an edgy artistic flair. We spend a lot of the day hiding in the shadows with invisibility cloaks, creatively capturing the authentic story as it unfolds. At times we will also become actively directive to mix in some one-of-a-kind artistic shots. While our style is considered contemporary, we stay clear of trends so that your photos

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EMBRACING YOUR STYLE will never be dated or "overdone" in years to come. From the very first time we hear from you, we do everything that we can to get to know you as a couple and make sure the entire wedding photography process is stress-free and exciting.

Even though you can expect to spend a lot of time laughing with (or probably even at) us, our professionalism will keep you feeling completely safe. Nothing is more important than this on a day that you only have one chance to "get it right." With our personal goal to make every photo we take better than the last, we view every wedding booked as an honor and privilege. JAA Studios would love to meet with couples whose vision matches our style! Visit our website at www.jaastudios.com for more information or to fill out an inquiry for 2015/2016 weddings!

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AN UN-“CONVENTIONAL” WEDDING CELEBRATION

owensboro

convention center “Our main goal in the wedding planning process was to make it as convenient as possible for not only our travelling guests, but for our local guests as well,” said Jackie Sue Smith, who planned her wedding ceremony and reception at the Owensboro Convention Center last July. “Having both the ceremony and reception under one roof, with a beautiful neighboring hotel, could not have been more convenient for our guests.”

LET US HANDLE THE STRESS:

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF: We say “I Do” from the very beginning! Your wedding is a unique event that you have been planning for your whole life.

Instead of treating every wedding the same, the staff at the Owensboro Convention Center opens the door for creativity, and can help make planning your big day an easy experience.

Other than providing the obvious space for your wedding reception, the Owensboro Convention Center also offers an indoor or outdoor location for your ceremony, rehearsal dinner and in-house services all under one roof. From food and beverage to table décor and uplighting, our expert wedding specialists are just one phone call away.

A new addition for 2015 is the Pier – the former Executive Inn Showroom Lounge that is being converted to an outside venue overlooking the scenic Ohio River. Several wedding parties have already booked the Pier for 2015 for their ceremony location, as brides are finding it a nice addition to having everything located nearby. Within a one block radius, you have a place to hold your outdoor wedding ceremony (the Pier) that includes spandex covered chairs, a ballroom to hold your reception afterwards (which can also be doubled up as your rain site location if you use the same setup as the reception), and two hotels for out of town guests so they never have to get in their car once they arrive.

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The Convention Center staff knows that planning your wedding is supposed to be a wonderful, fun experience – but let’s face it, it can also be a very stressful, time-consuming process. Our expert staff is always looking for ways to make it easier for you, such as creating packages that include several in-house amenities all wrapped into an all-inclusive, per person price. All you have to do is pick the package that you want and tell us the number of people, and it’s done! About 80% of our brides for 2015 have opted to go the package route for the convenience, affordability, and the ability to check multiple things off of your list at one time. “The wedding package made the small details a lot more manageable. Not having to worry about table settings, linens, bartenders, servers, etc. was an added bonus to the planning process,” said Smith.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR WEDDING EXPERIENCE: If the packages don’t fit with what you are wanting on your big day, the Owensboro Convention Center can also customize a menu that fits your needs – whether it is a specific item that you want to serve your guests or if your main goal is to stay within a set budget, our culinary team will work with you to come up with an ideal menu. If you want to try something a little different from the traditional wedding cake and offer a candy station, we can help with that too! We are always open to new ideas and suggestions that make your event memorable.

“The staff was very receptive to our questions, concerns, needs, and wants. This made the process a lot less stressful,” said Smith. “When the staff seems personally invested in making your vision a reality, it makes you feel confident about the end result.”

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A CATERING TRADITION

E

veryone knows about Moonlite’s mouth-watering barbecue and their famous buffet. What many may not realize is that Moonlite also features an extensive catering department, where they’ve provided the fare for countless Owensboro weddings since the 70’s. And if you’re thinking that all they do is barbecue, you probably haven’t experienced a Moonlite-catered event.

MORE THAN BBQ Catering Manager Jeanie Bosley Heath returned from college to manage the catering division of the family business in 1985. Under the management of Heath, along with Mike Clark, Moonlite’s customized catering has expanded well beyond the barbecued mutton that made them famous. Moonlite is unique in the fact that they can custom design any menu imaginable! For Heath and her staff, the distinct qualities of each wedding are what make the celebration stand out. “Every wedding is special. And we are always thrilled to be a part of the celebration.”

A MENU FOR ANY TASTE AND BUDGET From a fun barbecue dinner to an elegant plated dinner, Moonlite has you covered, no matter your budget or preferences. The bride often has an idea of what she wants and what her budget will allow.

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Heath enjoys meeting with the bride in person for inspiration before she suggests a particular menu. Whether it is casual, elegant, simple or “over the top”, plated or buffet, china or disposable, Moonlite aims to please by personalizing the experience for each and every wedding party. Their offerings range from a wide variety of tasty hors d’oeuvres to prime rib and grilled salmon. Says Heath, “As we talk I get excited and want to make sure they have wonderful memories of the reception.” As a tip, Heath adds that choice of venue is an important consideration when planning a menu to determine what will and won’t work.

FULL-SERVICE CATERING In addition to their fabulous food, Moonlite’s catering division also offers full-service catering, including servers, linens, and dishes.

And if they do not offer a particular service, Moonlite is happy to recommend a trusted local vendor. In all they do, Moonlite prides themselves on their ability to please their customers, no matter what the request. Planning a wedding outside of town, but still want a taste of Owensboro? Moonlite can cater anywhere!

“OUR FAMILY WANTS TO COOK FOR YOURS!” Moonlite understands that your wedding celebration is one of the most important meals you will ever plan. For that special day, Moonlite’s unparalleled personal service from beginning to end ensures that everything is perfect. They truly mean it when they say, “Our family wants to cook for yours!”

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A HOUSE FIT FOR A WEDDING

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ince its opening in 2009, The Miller House has quickly become one of Owensboro’s favorite dining spots.

You’ve probably enjoyed lunch, dinner or even brunch in this treasure of downtown Owensboro. But what you may not know is that in addition to offering their unique and flavorful Southern fare, The Miller House also serves as a one-stop wedding shop.

THE HOUSE As any married couple, or anyone planning a wedding, can tell you, your special day often consists of much more than just the ceremony. For starters, there’s the wedding shower. While some may opt to use their home as a venue when planning a shower, that still leaves the host to set up, cook, and clean for their guests. Why not let The Miller House take care of everything for you, and let their friendly staff serve you and your guests?

Once the wedding shower is complete, it’s time to start planning the rehearsal dinner. The Miller House has you covered there, too. With the option of using the quiet elegance of the second story, dining under the stars on the patio, or utilizing the entire building, The Miller House can accommodate rehearsal dinners of any size.

But The Miller House doesn’t just host the pre-wedding events. In fact, The Miller House offers a great venue for both the wedding ceremony and the reception. Whether you want to exchange vows in the presence of a few guests next to the fireplace, or outside on the stately wraparound porch, The Miller House will ensure that your wedding is a truly unique experience.

After the wedding, The Miller House would love to host your reception, too. They can accommodate parties from 3 to 300 guests. And with their newly-opened patio, along with the cozy atmosphere of the downstairs at Spirits, The Miller House offers plenty of options for a memorable night of dining and dancing with family and friends. All this, and we haven’t even mentioned…

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THE FOOD:

Once you’ve decided to book The Miller House for your bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, reception, or all of the above, you’ll sit down with their chef to plan the perfect menu. If you’re looking for cookiecutter, you won’t find it here. The Miller House prides itself on offering customized menus for your special wedding event.

With dining options to fit any budget, The Miller House truly has something for everyone. You’ll be wowed by the delectable dishes prepared by their professionally-trained chef. From formal cuisine to hors d’oeuvres to something special for the kids, The Miller House isn’t your average wedding caterer. And should you decide to host your wedding event off-site, the chef and staff at The Miller House would be happy to bring the fare to you. Whether they are catering at your home or theirs, their professional and courteous staff will make your wedding event a success.

THE CHARM: In addition to coming for their famous food, wedding clients and customers alike are drawn to The Miller House for its one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The restaurant’s website tells the story of the grand house and its beginnings, but you have to experience the house itself to truly appreciate its charm. Originally built in 1905, the fully-restored house offers the elegance of a turn-of-the-century estate, combined with a touch of modern flare. The result is the perfect backdrop for a rehearsal dinner, wedding, or reception. With so many grand features, there’s scarcely a need to decorate, saving you time and money when planning your special day. According to its owners, Jeanne and Larry Kirk, “It’s like getting married at home, without the hassle.”

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the bakers Rack

WHY SHOULD YOU REGISTER?

what you may want and need to get started in your new life.

Registries should be flexible if you change your mind about what you want. Each store should allow you a timely return of any gifts that you cannot use.

So what should be on your registry? Anything you like!

If there is something in a store you admire, then register for it. Nothing is too small or large, as sometimes small

C

ongratulations on your engagement! When is the date?

That’s coming up more quickly than you know. When should you register? As soon as possible!

That is my side of several conversations lately with newlyengaged women and men looking forward to becoming married and starting a home together. With a wedding coming up (quickly!) and lots of preparations to make, finding the time to register for gifts sometimes gets difficult.

Why should you spend the time when there are so many other things to do? There are lots of reasons!

One major reason to register for gifts is to make it easier and more enjoyable for those who wish to celebrate your wedding with a gift to purchase it, and know that you will like what you receive. Many of those who offer gifts really do not know your personal style, and are hesitant to buy without more knowledge. A good registry gives them insight about you and confidence that the gift will be used and appreciated into the future. Even if they offer an unregistered gift, they can use the registry to know what you like and what you may need to accessorize your life and home.

What should you expect from a registry? The stores where you register should offer a listing of favored products, and also be able to educate you and the shoppers about the uses and quality of each product. They should make registering easy for you and make purchasing easy for the shopper. Each store should be able to offer guidance about

gifts are grouped together into a larger gift arrangement, and sometimes large gifts are purchased for the couple by groups of wedding guests. Many couples choose products that will accessorize their new home because they have never purchased anything in that realm. China, dinnerware, serving pieces, picture frames, bookends and even furniture all go together to develop a home.

A common registry entry is china or stoneware. This is an area where advice from well-meaning mothers and others can be a little misleading. “You will never use it,” or “You will stand at a sink forever washing it” are common excuses for not registering for better dinnerware. Well, china dinnerware has changed a lot since your mom’s wedding. The vast majority of modern china patterns are dishwasher safe, and are much stronger and more durable than common stoneware dinnerware. What that means is that you can use modern china often without worry or extra time spent.

Good looking dishes you can use everyday!

Where should you register? The short answer is: Anywhere you think your wedding guests may shop for you. Remember, wedding registries are for the convenience of your guests as well as for you. You may register for identical items at multiple places, local, national or online.

That increases the chances of receiving what you really want. Reward stores that provide excellent service with your future business. We at The Bakers Rack would love the opportunity to help you develop a registry that fits your lifestyle, and allow us the chance to serve your guests as they shop for you. Come see us!

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“If our donors could come spend a day in our office, they would clearly see what their money is doing,” says Care Net Pregnancy Center RN Mandy Cecil.

The day before this interview, 11 women came into the office. Part of the reason Care Net has seen more clients lately is because of the newly-designed website and app, available at

BY DANNY MAY

PHOTOS BY TAYLOR WEST

www.careneto.com. The app is easily accessible by clicking the button on the bottom left-hand side of the website homepage. “Since we released it, we’ve been slammed,” Cecil admitted.

“That’s why this banquet is so important for

us,” says Director Donna Flaspoehler. “In ten years we’ve grown so much. These ladies (staff)

CAL THOMAS TO SPEAK AT CARE NET BANQUET

do great work here, and we have a great board and a great team of volunteers. Now we want to keep this ministry going strong.”

To celebrate their tenth year, the board decided to go all out and bring in a big name speaker for the banquet. Fox News contributor and USA Today columnist Cal Thomas was at the top of their short list. Thankfully, when the board contacted his agent, he was available. “I heard Cal Thomas speak in San Antonio and he did a fantastic job. He’s very engaging, and an excellent speaker. He’s going to do a great job for us and we’re very excited to have him,” Flaspoehler said.

With Cal Thomas presenting the keynote, attendance at this year’s banquet is expected to

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exceed 600. The fundraising banquet will be held

a Family Practitioner, and Dr. Charles Bea, head

Thursday, March 12th at the Owensboro Convention

of Radiology at Owensboro Health, both volunteer

Center. Dinner begins at 6:30 pm. Because of Mr.

their services at Care Net.

Thomas’s broad appeal, banquet organizers are

reserving several tables for the general public who

and truth by promoting the sanctity of human life

may want to come and hear him speak. For ticket

and sexual purity. If a woman thinks she’s pregnant,

information, please call the Care Net office at 270-

the first step Care Net takes is offering a free

685-5077.

pregnancy test. If it’s positive, they also offer a free

Care Net Owensboro is one of 1,100 Care

ultrasound to check the viability of the pregnancy.

Net facilities nationwide.

“We are a nonprofit

From there, Care Net will help the expectant

pregnancy resource center, but we are also a

mother get insurance through Kentucky Kynect

medical health clinic that is licensed by the state

and refer them to a doctor. “We help them all along

of Kentucky,” explained RN Mandy Cecil, who

the way with whatever they need,” Cecil continued,

worked in labor and delivery before joining the

“whether it’s counsel regarding pregnancy options,

staff at Care Net. Nurse Manager Vicky Cummins,

prenatal vitamins, prenatal education, or referring

RN, IBCLC, brings many years of women’s health

them to the HANDS and WIC programs available

nursing experience to the team at Care Net, as well.

through the Health Department.”

In addition to the staff nurses, Dr. Lauren Bickel,

The

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Care Net exists to extend Christian compassion

banquet

is

the

largest

single-event

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fundraiser of the year. The rest of the operating budget

diapers, baby clothes, and other supplies.

is raised through grants and donations by churches and

individuals. Collectively, the money is used to accomplish

about having more space to expand their programming.

several goals.

Thanks to a generous grant from the Horn Family Foundation,

$45,000 is used to fund the ultrasound program.

Aside from the banquet, the Care Net staff is also excited

Last

major renovation is underway at their office building at 922

year, Care Net performed 116 ultrasounds for expectant

Triplett Street, Suite 7. When complete, the administrative

mothers. 90% of the abortion-minded clients who chose to

offices will be moved upstairs, which will free up much-

have an ultrasound made the decision to carry the baby to full

needed space for counseling rooms and the education center.

term after seeing the ultrasound.

With a growing clientele, building renovations underway,

$16,000 is used to fund the Sexual Integrity and Identity

and the fundraising banquet approaching, Care Net’s future

presentations in schools. The Sexual Integrity program is

is full of opportunity. Still, Flaspoehler says she prays for

presented by Care Net staff to 9th grade health classes in

something greater. “Our landlord is great, but my prayer is

all three county high schools.

The Integrity program is

one day someone will donate a building to this ministry, or

presented to 7th grade health classes at Burns, College View,

lease a building to us for $1 a month.” Anything can happen

and Owensboro Middle.

when the community gets behind a good cause. If the next

Then, of course, there are also overhead expenses for

ten years are as successful as the first ten have been for Care

facilities, staff and volunteer training, and programming,

Net Owensboro, I wouldn’t be surprised.

which includes parenting classes, childbirth education, and

Care Net Owensboro would like to thank corporate

the “Bonkers for Babies” boutique. Each visit, the client earns

sponsors William G. Barron Enterprises and Henry’s

“Bonker Bucks,” which can be redeemed in the boutique for

Plumbing for their generous support of this year’s banquet.

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THE

SCENE

FAMILY

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF OWENSBORO CELEBRATES 50TH CHARITY BALL

March 7 | Hines Center This is a very big year for the Junior League of Owensboro, who will be celebrating their 50th annual Charity Ball on March 7th at the Hines Center. The Charity Ball brings members together with their friends and family to celebrate a year of volunteering, giving, and dedicated service to the Owensboro community. This year’s event will highlight a 50-year tradition of young men and women waltzing their way into community advocacy by participating as Junior Hosts or Hostesses.

“The atmosphere is very formal, but it’s a lot of fun,” says Charity Ball Co-chair Katie Keller. “We’ll have about sixteen junior hosts and hostesses. The boys wear tuxes and dance with their moms. The girls dress up like a cotillion or debutante.”

This 50th Golden Anniversary event will be celebrated by honoring the rich history and many years of service of the Junior League of Owensboro. Throughout those years, League members, their families, and numerous organizations have partnered to give back, raise money, and give aid to thousands in need.

Today, the Junior League of Owensboro is approximately 300 members strong and continues to meet many needs in our community through hands-on volunteer activities, financial contributions, and public awareness campaigns about issues that affect children and families in the Owensboro-Daviess County area.

“The Charity Ball is a really neat tradition,” Keller added. “We have women in the League who were hostesses and now their daughters are hostesses.”

To request an invitation please contact Invitation Chair Whitney Kirkwood at whitneykirkwood@hotmail.com. If your place of business would like to sponsor the Charity Ball, please contact Corporate Sponsorship Chairs Jennifer Keller or Pattie Martin at jenniferkeller13@gmail.com or pattiemartin10@gmail.com.

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PHOTO BY CAPTURED MOMENTS

MARKET DAYS

February 7 - 8 | Preservation Station Preservation Station Market and Event Center Market Days are held the first full weekend of every month, Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon. – 5 p.m. with over 80 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and customized items, live music, and food. Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Highway 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m.5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www. visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook.

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KIDS

JIM HENSON’S DINOSAUR TRAIN LIVE “BUDDY’S BIG ADVENTURE” March 1, 2 – 4 p.m. | RiverPark Center DINOSAUR TRAIN embraces and celebrates the fascination that preschoolers have with both dinosaurs and trains. The series encourages basic scientific thinking skills as the audience learns about life science, natural history and paleontology.

Come join Buddy, Tiny, Shiny, Don and all of their friends and family in this upbeat interactive, multi-media live trip back to the Mesozoic! DINOSAUR TRAIN LIVE! takes the whole family back in time to an age when dinosaurs roamed the earth…. and rode in trains!

OPEN BOUNCE NIGHTS Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays | U-Bounce The perfect party place for kids. Amazing inflatables in an unbelievably cool bounce stadium. Private, clean and climate controlled. All children must wear socks. $7 per child, children under 2 are free, unless they are the only child, adults always free; On Toddler Tuesday, children 5 and under get in for $5 all night.

Tuesday and Wednesday 5 – 8 p.m. and Friday 5 - 9 p.m.

(270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

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FREE

STORYTIMES

Mondays & Thursdays | Daviess County Public Library Wee Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m. (270) 684-0211 or dcplibrary.org.

FREE

SATURDAY MORNING LIVE!

Mondays & Thursdays | Daviess County Public Library Visit the library every Saturday morning for self-guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness. 10 a.m. – Noon (270) 684-0211 or dcplibrary.org.

ACTIVE

FREEZE THE DATE February 14 | Mitch McConnell Plaza This event will include the Polar Plunge and the Polar Donut Dash, which both focus on bringing the participants outside to try and endure the brisk weather while either taking a plunge into the cold water or running the road race. This event is to help raise awareness for Special Olympics Kentucky. For more information, contact Kendra Lowther at (502) 326-5002.

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THE

SCENE DOWNTOWN

AARON KIZER PRESENTS STAND-UP COMEDY WITH KIRK FOX February 20, 7:30 p.m. | Owensboro Convention Center Kirk Fox of Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Parks and Recreation fame will make Owensboro laugh in his live stand-up comedy performance.

On August 11, 2006, Kirk made his television standup debut on Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham and in 2007 received the Jury Prize for best standup at the HBO Comedy Festival in Aspen, Colorado.

In March 2008 he was featured in his own half-hour special on Comedy Central: Comedy Central Presents: Kirk Fox. He appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in December 2008 and May 2009.

Tickets are $25. To purchase tickets and find more information, visit at kizerarts.com.

SOUTHERN STAR WINTERIM February 13, 7 p.m. | Berry Theatre, RiverPark Center Southern Star Winterim is a winter concert series that will be hosted free of charge at the Berry Theatre. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the music starts at 8 p.m. Be sure to get there early and get your seat! Ron Ramsey Jr. will be the guest as he shows you how to Rock n’ Roll.

OWENSBORO BOAT AND RECREATION SHOW 2015 February 26 – March 1 | Owensboro Convention Center The 2015 Owensboro Boat & Recreation Show will be held at the new Owensboro Convention Center and feature surrounding area recreational marine dealers exhibiting their products and services to the boating enthusiast. The show is scheduled as a four-day event beginning on Thursday, February 26 and running through Sunday, March 1, 2015. Many local and outlying dealers will be on hand displaying the most current models with competitive pricing. Come out and see what the new year has to offer the recreational boating community!

Whether your lifestyle already allows you to enjoy recreational boating or you are just interested in checking out the boating lifestyle, then you will not be disappointed with the 2015 Owensboro Boat & Recreation Show. Mark your calendar to come out and enjoy this annual event, view the displays, speak to dealers, get current pricing, general boating information or search for the best deal on a new boat package. The best part is that it’s all inside, under one roof!

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ARTS

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA “ADVENTURE ABROAD” February 28 | 7:30 – 10 p.m. | RiverPark Center The Owensboro Symphony Orchestra will take you on a musical journey through Europe where you will hear Mozart’s “Overture to Don Giovanni,” Schumann’s “Symphony #4” and feature guest artist, Robert Belinic. This guitar phenom will wow you with his virtuoso style of performance as never seen before in Owensboro!

ME & MI AMOR February 14, 9:15 – 10:15 p.m. | RiverPark Center Ballroom Dancing lessons taught by professional dancers of Giordano.

25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE February 26 – March 1 | RiverPark Center Coming to the BAM stage, February 26-March 1, 2015, is The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, a one-act musical comedy with an eclectic group of six quirky mid-pubescent adolescents who vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime at a Bee run by three equally quirky grown-ups. It is based on the book by Rachel Sheinkin and licensed by Music Theatre International (MTI). Several audience participants join the contestants on stage. Weeknight shows are at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m. in the Jody Berry Theatre, RiverPark Center.

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DANZA MULTICULTURAL February 14, 7 – 9 p.m. | RiverPark Center The second part of the 2014-2015 Owensboro Dance Theatre concert series is a special Valentine’s Day performance featuring Giordano Dance Chicago performing an evening entitled Danza Multicultural on February 14, 2015 at 7 p.m. For over half a century, Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC), America’s original professional jazz dance company, has captivated audiences worldwide with highly energetic performances and innovative jazz dance choreography to audiences from all ethnic backgrounds.

GDC is popular for programming a wide diversity of dance styles and genres including jazz, Latin and ballroom. GDC continues to promote ethnic diversity with its wide range of choreographers and works highlighting different cultures.

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THE LAST WORD

PHOTO BY ADAM PARIS

MUSIC IS EVERYWHERE

Y

BY LORA WIMSATT

ou are strolling along the beautiful riverfront, keeping

Birds are singing and you think you even catch a flash of

your grandchildren just in sight as they bob and dart

yellow as one flits by – a canary? No, it must be a finch of

ahead of you like escaped balloons on a spring breeze. All

some kind; do we have those around here? But your dog is

around you, children are shouting with delight as they

leaning hard against her harness even as you lean hard to keep

climb, chase, swing, slide and run across the playground;

her from pulling you off into the tall weeds after whatever she

but in the background, providing a happy soundtrack to it

smells or sees or senses in there. Then her ears perk up and

all, you hear the piped-in music that fills the air, flowing

she gets back on track, literally, as something more interesting

from speakers disguised as rocks and hidden within the

and immediate catches her attention. You look up, still

swaying reeds, and you hum along with a familiar tune,

somewhat breathless from trying to keep up with her four-

feeling in harmony with the universe.

legged pace, and see a herd of teenagers coming your way. One is on a skateboard, one on a bike and two are walking, but they

It’s Friday night, long after sunset but somehow not

are all weaving around one another like dancers making their

feeling dark at all, and you are walking back to your car

way across the ballroom floor. Their music reaches you before

after a delightful dinner with friends – an evening of good

they do. You start to think you didn’t know boomboxes were

food and comfortable companionship. As you approach

around anymore, but before that thought materializes, you see

the open door of another restaurant, the golden light spills

it’s not a boombox, it’s a very small item but making a big

out on the sidewalk and you glance inside to see people

noise, with a lot of thudding boom-boom-ba-boom that might

leaning across the tables toward one another, everyone

be drums, might be voices, might be both. The boys see you

smiling and laughing and talking all at once. Layered

smiling and smile back, surprised, and as you walk away, you

underneath that sound, you hear something else, and you

realize you are walking in time to the boom-boom-ba-boom.

look more closely now and see a man playing the guitar, crooning into a microphone as if confiding his most

There is music everywhere in our community – some

intimate secrets. You stop walking now and drift into the

of it on stages and on purpose … some of it accidental

shadows, not wanting to be seen eavesdropping on this

and unexpected … but none of it more beautiful than the

private conversation, yet knowing at the same time that

melody of voices that surround us, embrace us, and invite

he wants you to know what he is saying.

us to say, “I hear it too.”

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