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Contents
JAN/ FEB 2021 TRENDING 8 BEHIND
THE SCENES
The inside scoop on the making of the magazine.
10 N E W S W O R T H Y
The real people, places and events that shape our community, brought to you by the Owensboro Times.
CULTURE 14 A R T
Lucas Wiman: Speaking Through a Lens
LIFESTYLE 32 H O M E
Growing Forward at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden’s WeatherBerry home.
36 S E N I O R
LIVING
Something to Look Forward to
38 H E A L T H
New Year, Healthier You!
FLAVOR 56 R E C I P E
FEATURES
20 MILEWIDE BEER CO.
Louisville’s burgeoning craft brewery is making its way down the Ohio River and setting up a second shop in downtown Owensboro. B Y J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K
Stay warm this winter with these
23 LIGHTING UP DOWNTOWN A bright idea, years in the making, finally comes to fruition, and one of Owensboro’s most recognizable landmarks gets a glowing upgrade. B Y M A R LY S M A S O N
hearty soups.
59 D I S H
What we’re eating now: Local dishes we can’t live without!
60 R E S TA U R A N T
SPOTLIGHT
Ernesto’s Mexican Bar and Grill: Through the Fire
26 MILTON T. HALL: UNSUNG HERO
You may have heard of the Tuskegee Airmen, but you may be surprised to learn that one of the famed African-American aviators has deep Owensboro roots. BY STEVEN WILSON
28 MURAL CREATES A LASTING LEGACY
The Northwest Neighborhood Alliance partners with Aaron Kizer to create a mural celebrating unity and the Black community.
SPECIAL SECTION
41 THE 2021 WEDDING GUIDE
B Y M A R LY S M A S O N
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Trending B E H I N D
THE SCENES
EDITORIAL
EDITOR ’S NOT E
Learning to Slow Down
T
his year I’m resolving to slow down. Though no one that knows me would accuse me of being fast, I’m talking about
slowing down and enjoying my family – taking time to soak in the moments that really matter. Forced quarantine has certainly helped my efforts, and to be honest, while 2020 was a train wreck by most standards, there were plenty of enjoyable moments along the way, too. While being stuck at home has its downsides in some respects, it also allowed me much more quality time with Summer and our four kids (including Henry, who was born in May). Without a calendar full of sports practices, school functions, birthday parties, etc., we’ve had more opportunities for activities like board games, and we even dusted off the Nintendo Wii. We’re not constantly rushing out the door to be somewhere on time, and it’s honestly been a welcome break. But the key is to make the most of those times, to slow down and make sure I enjoy our time together, knowing that I won’t have days like these forever. And while COVID-19 will hopefully come to an end in 2021, that doesn’t mean we have to let go of the good habits we’ve developed because of it.
But whatever 2021 brings, Owensboro Living will be here, like
always, to bring you the best of it.
EDITOR
Steven Wilson PUBLISHER
Jason Tanner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jamie Alexander Christy Chaney John Kirkpatrick Danny May Marlys Mason Laura Murphy Dana Peveler Jacqueline Jordan Russell Ashley Wedding Lora Wimsatt COPY EDITOR
Ashley Gleason Do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to steven@owensboroliving.com
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTORS
Brock Quinton Robert Williams
Owensboro Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise. For more information about advertising call 888-304-5416 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.
DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY S TA F F P H O T O G R A P H E R
Jamie Alexander
L AY O U T D E S I G N E R
Andrea Roberson AD DESIGNER
Monica Smith
DISTRIBUTION STEVEN WILSON, EDITOR steven@owensboroliving.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Dave Mackey
To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 888-304-5416.
SUBSCRIBE
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W H AT I ’ M RE A D I N G My oldest son, Jude, loves to read even more than I do. Before bed, Summer and I read a chapter of Book Scavenger with him, and we enjoyed the book as much as he did. Set in San Francisco, the story follows middle-schooler Emily, as she and her friend James track
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down clues and decode ciphers in an effort to complete the Book Scavenger game created by her eccentric idol, Garrison Griswold. Along the way, the pair makes new friends and runs into some unscrupulous characters. It’s sure to keep kids and their parents guessing until the very end.
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TANNER PUBLISHING CO. 2624-A New Hartford Rd. Owensboro, KY 42303 888-304-5416
ON T HE COV E R
Most liked story from November WHY SURVIVE WHEN YOU CAN THRIVE? WRIT TEN BY DANNY MAY PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
S U B S C R IBE TO OWE N SB O R O LI VI NG! We’re proud to offer our publication free to our readers at multiple sites throughout Owensboro. But since times are changing, and COVID-19 has made it difficult to visit some of our favorite local spots, we’re excited to now offer subscriptions to Owensboro Living. Readers can get all 6 issues delivered to their doors for $20/year. Or for $30/year, subscribers can receive every issue of Owensboro Living and Owensboro Parent. To subscribe now, visit owensboroliving.com/subscribe.
When we learned that our very own Monica Smith (a graphic designer and social media guru at Tanner Publishing Co.) would be getting married the same day our Wedding Guide hit the stands, we knew we had to get her on the cover! She braved chilly and windy weather (30 degrees, but who’s counting) to stand out on the RiverPark Center’s outdoor plaza and get a shot with the newly-lit Owensboro Bridge behind her. Monica is holding her wedding bouquet that she made herself—she is a big fan of DIY projects and made almost all of her wedding decorations (bouquets, flower girl baskets, table decor, signs, and even a large wooden cross that will be used at the
ceremony). That DIY spirit helped bring all her ideas together while navigating through a time that’s difficult to make concrete plans. Monica says while getting married during the pandemic is not ideal, they still feel blessed that they’re able to celebrate their big day with their loved ones. Join us in congratulating Monica and Cole on their New Year’s day wedding! Cover photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
DANNY MAY, Writer Danny has been a regular contributor to Owensboro Living since our very first issue. He also writes a recurring column for Owensboro Parent magazine called “Insight from an Ordinary Dad” and is the former editor of OwensboroLiving.com, where he once misspelled the word “taco” in a headline. But only briefly. (Thankfully, online articles can be corrected very quickly). He loves the art of storytelling, but is a self-proclaimed “nonfiction guy” and says biographies and human-interest stories are his jam. Consequently, he is also an author and ghostwriter, ghostwriting Earl Hayden’s 2014 book The First Family of Racing and self-publishing a short run spiritual memoir in 2008. Danny is a 1996 graduate of Apollo High School and a Brescia University class of 2000 grad, as is his wife, Kelly. Together they have two sons, 12 and 10. His full-time job is director of the Office of Marriage & Family Life for the Catholic Diocese of Owensboro. He’s known in our office as a “bulldozer” and a workhorse for often taking multiple assignments, and most often, still meeting deadlines.
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Trending N E W S W O R T H Y
5 things we’re talking about now
2 Owensboro Distilling Company Owensboro Distilling Co. has launched three new bourbons with Heidelberg Distributing Company. The whiskeys, Yellow
RICHARDSON
Banks, Humble Bee and Ladder #9, pay homage to
Photo by RYAN
Kentucky and the region’s vibrant bourbon culture. The newly-named Owensboro
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OHS’s Wimsatt and Fallin Receive Statewide Honor
River Spirits Co. and
After their victory in the Class 5A state semifinal over Lexington’s Frederick
historic Green River
Douglass, quarterback Gavin Wimsatt and Head Coach Jay Fallin were named Player of the Year and Coach of the Year, respectively, by the Kentucky Football Coaches Association. Wimsatt, a junior, led the Red Devils to a perfect record from behind center, while also amassing impressive stats and a long list of scholarship offers. Fallin earned the award after notching his fifty-ninth win as head coach of the Red Devils, which places him fourth all-time in victories at the school.
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Distilling Co. is
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part of the Green produces a variety of whiskeys at the Distillery. The new offerings will be available at retailers exclusively in the greater Owensboro area.
Brought to you by O W E N S B O R O T I M E S
5 ROMP Virtual Band Contest With ROMP Festival 2020 cancelled due to Covid-19, organizers at the
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Bluegrass Music
Civilian Service Award
Hall of Fame and
Antoine Smith-Rouse was recognized by the Daviess County Sheriff’s
looking ahead. As
Museum started
Office with a Civilian Service Award. Smith-Rouse earned the recognition for his efforts in calming opposing factions during a demonstration this summer at the Confederate monument on the Courthouse lawn. Though he only intended to stay for a brief time to voice his support for removal of the statute, Smith-Rouse unexpectedly took on a larger, unplanned role when he spoke to the crowd as a whole and encouraged them to quell their anger and aggression.
part of the 2021 festival, bands that play bluegrass or acoustic roots music can compete to perform on the ROMP main stage. The deadline for entering is January 31, but the number of participating
4
bands will be
KBP Testing Plant-Based Vaccine Owensboro’s BioProcessing plans
in
capped. Once all the band contest submittals are
Kentucky
complete, fans can
announced
view videos on the
mid-December
ROMP website,
to begin a Phase I clinical
and vote for their
trial in adult volunteers for
favorite bands,
their COVID-19 candidate vaccine innovative
created
casting up to one
using
vote per day until
plant-based
the contest ends.
technology. The study is designed to enroll a total of 180 healthy volunteers who will be divided into two age cohorts — age 18-49 and age 50-70. Results from the study are expected mid-2021 and, if positive, would allow for continued progress into a Phase
Photo by
NATHAN SEATON
GET MORE NEWS LIKE THIS ON THE OWENSBORO TIMES APP. DOWNLOAD THE APP TODAY ON THE APP STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY.
2 study, subject to regulatory approval.
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ART: LUCAS WIMAN: SPEAKING THROUGH A LENS p. 14
→
Photo by
LUCAS WIMAN
CULTURE
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Culture A R T
LUCAS WIMAN:
Speaking Through a Lens Written by D A N N Y M AY
Photos Submitted by L U C A S W I M A N
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Y
ou never know when inspiration will strike you. For Owensboro-raised photographer Lucas Wiman, the moment of inspiration for his most recent project came during a trip to visit family in Bluefield, Virginia, back in June. “I became enamored with the scenery of the area and the coal mines and history,” Wiman recalled, hinting at his love for Appalachian scenery. “I just sort of dove in and started reading books and watching films, and it just captured me.” Lucas has since titled the photo collection “Coming out for Air,” and says the goal of the project is to explore the process of Appalachian communities evolving into tourism economies and leaving coal dependence behind. Wiman hopes his photos will shine a light on small towns in Appalachia who are rebuilding their economies on outdoor recreation, music, hunting, rafting, and other interests. “So often you see negative publicity or stereotypes coming out of eastern Kentucky. That seems like a problem to me. But there are these cools stories popping up in these little towns.
For example, Whitesburg (KY) has the coolest downtown, and right now it has one of the highest rates of growth among young people living in the area,” Wiman explained. “So there is a resurgence, or at least potential.” The next step in the project is talking with the city of Pikeville to discuss how his photos could help them in their tourism efforts. “This began as a personal interest, but I would love for this to set me up to do this kind of work moving forward,” Wiman said. He expects the project to last through the next several years as he pursues his Masters of Fine Arts at the University of Kentucky. Now living in Lexington, Wiman seems to have found his creative second home in the mountains. After graduating
spent the summer shooting from Daviess County High photos of places he saw School, Lucas got his Bachelor growing up, but this time with of Arts degree at Georgetown a more artistic eye. He also College in 2017, then moved used that time to put more to Knoxville, Tennessee in late things on his online sales page, 2017 and paid his bills with and seized the opportunity to wedding photography and compile his first photo book, shooting real estate photos titled “Summer in a Small for a cabin rental company in Town.” Gatlinburg. He also landed “I’ve been wanting to do a a part time job at a studio in book for the past couple years. Knoxville from 2018 until Especially since I’m changing March of this year, when, the direction of like many artists my work from and part-time IF YOU’RE LOOKING commercial type employees, his FOR A COOL GIFT stuff and wedding primary source of IDEA, BLUE BRIDGE COASTERS ARE AN photography to income disappeared INTERESTING GIFT more documentary once the COVID-19 FOR ANYONE IN or editorial work. pandemic hit. OWENSBORO. THEY This book was a With all photo FEATURE A CIRCLEgood segue into shoots for summer CROPPED PHOTO OF projects like this and fall of 2020 THE ICONIC BLUE that I’d like to do,” canceled, he came BRIDGE TAKEN BEFORE THE NEW LIGHTS WERE Wiman said. The back to Owensboro INSTALLED. book also features to regroup, and
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Culture A R T Jordan Swift, another elk Wiman captured on INTERESTING FACT: Owensboro native, a misty morning in the THAT BULL ELK IS PART OF A HERD THAT who wrote some poetry Cataloochee Valley in the WAS RE-INTRODUCED pieces to accompany Great Smoky Mountains IN THE SMOKIES several of the photos. National Park. RECENTLY, WHICH After taking pre-sale “The Cataloochee IS A BRANCH OF A orders for a month, Lucas Valley is a pretty spot on HERD ORIGINALLY ordered 450 softback the North Carolina side RE-INTRODUCED IN EASTERN KENTUCKY and 50 hardback copies of the park that not many TWENTY YEARS for his first edition run. people go to,” Lucas AGO. SO THAT By the time this issue explained. “That area is ELK ITSELF IS A goes to print, the preknown for elk sightings. KENTUCKY-TENNESSEE sale orders should be Usually they’re hanging CONNECTION. shipped to customers. along the treeline, and If you’re interested they stay hidden. So I in a copy, the book is got really lucky with that available at lucasalanwiman.com, one coming out into the field like which is Lucas’ website that also that. Any time you can photograph basically serves as a portfolio for an elk, it’s pretty cool. But that his MFA. morning, we got this great light and One of the more popular photos a nice layer of fog right behind it. on the site is a shot of a lone bull That doesn’t happen very often. But
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that’s what made that photo.” Looking at that elk photo, if finding good light is a photography skill gained through experience, it occurs to me that maybe the same principal applies to keeping a positive perspective through the pandemic. As Wiman put it, “If COVID hadn’t hit, I wouldn’t have made a book this year. I’m glad I finally did it and got it done. I would love to keep making books in the future. I just love seeing my work in print in its final form, rather than just on a screen.” That statement is indicative of the refocusing Wiman has done this year. For the past six months, he has shared very few photos on social media. “Sometimes sharing everything online makes me a
little anxious about everybody seeing everything I do. Once you post something, it’s out there, everywhere, forever. But when it comes to printed work, whether it’s in book form, or framed on a wall, it’s more like a sacred space, because someone’s only going to buy it because they really want it. So you know they really appreciate it and love the work. And also, as an artist, you have more control of the final product they’re enjoying if you’re producing work to be printed. You can control the size, the type of paper, the framing. You can take that shot to the next level. This elk photo on my wall, for example, is presented well. It’s framed and matted, you can see the detail because it’s larger. And it will last longer than the same shot on my phone.” He makes an interesting point. Consider all the time invested in that one framed photo of the bull elk, for example. That particular photo was actually taken on the second trip. So half a day was invested in the first unsuccessful shoot. The second trip entailed another hour and a half drive to the location, which means Lucas
the night before so you’re already left Knoxville at 4:30am to get to the valley before the sun came up. there in the morning. There have He then shot until the light was been several spots in the Smokies not good, around 9am, then made or Pisgah forest that I’ve camped the return trip home. He clocked at least three times to get the right another three or four hours conditions to get a certain shot of a combing through all the shots flower, or tree, or sunset or sunrise to find the “keepers,” and then in the light I hoped for.” several more hours editing the But other times, Lucas says the best shots. Only then was the final adventure of photography is as selection sent off to be printed. simple as jumping in the car to see Once it was printed, it was then what you see, pulling off the road taken to a frame shop. and letting the lens capture natural That’s a good amount of time beauty. Or letting the culture of a involved in that one photo on the town speak to you. Which is the wall. And that’s not accounting for constant theme running through the equipment expenses for the “Summer in a Small Town,” camera, lens, other gear, editing software, and gas in the car. “Coming Out for Air,” and other But therein lies the reward. projects like the Blue Bridge “Most people understand that a Coasters. (See sidebar for that painting takes hours, maybe days story). With the ultimate goal of or weeks. But what teaching on the college most people don’t level, Wiman hopes understand is there is WIMAN’S WORK IS to continue helping way more involved in a ALSO FEATURED ON nonprofits with his THE BLUERIDGERS good photograph than photography, shooting WEBSITE, WHICH IS just clicking a button. freelance editorial A COLLECTIVE OF There’s the research to MOUNTAIN REGION work, and relying on find the site, then the PHOTOGRAPHERS the mountains for work of getting to the WHO SCHEDULE more moments of site, which sometimes MEETUPS WITH OTHER involves camping out inspiration. OL PHOTOGRAPHERS. J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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MILEWIDE BEER COMPANY
Spanning the Ohio from Louisville to Owensboro and Beyond Written by J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K Photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
After
opening
their
first
brewery
in Louisville in December of 2016, the Milewide Beer Company decided to take a short trip down the Ohio River to open an expansion in downtown Owensboro. After over a century-long drought, the microbrewery and taproom are the second of its kind to grace Second Street this year.
Craftily named, Milewide will join The
Brew Bridge in brewing beer in the city of Owensboro for the first time since 1903. The company looks to use their Owensboro location as a playground of sorts, to create and experiment with beers that would only be served at the taproom. This level of innovation is a direct reflection of co-founders Scott Shreffler, Kyle Tavares, and Matt Landon, who joined their many talents under the motto, “always flowing.� Tavares is from Henderson and serves as the head brewer -
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his familiarity with the area played a
barrier of entry was really low and it
while
pivotal role in the expansion.
wasn’t going to take long for us to get
Reluctant to set many guidelines
in and get working.”
for the type of beers they wanted to
in the country without a brewery,
The new location participated
brew, the company continues to rely
so it seemed like a good market to
in a grand opening on November 13
on input from their consumers.
start exploring,” said hype man and
before being forced to close its doors
marketing director Scott Shreffler.
just over a week later because of
“Kyle having ties to the area was a
COVID-19 restrictions. As restrictions
of their brews along with other
nice little bonus.”
are lifted, the company hopes to raise
The idea for the expansion began
visibility and bridge the gap for the
when the previous tenants of the
everyday beer drinker in Owensboro.
location, CYO Brewing, posted that
“The weather was great and
they were closing and that all of their
people were walking around Second
equipment was for sale. CYO operated
Street, so it gave us an idea of what
as a successful bar, but never actually
a post-COVID world would look
began the brewing process.
like,” he said. “We need to let people
“They posted on their Facebook
know that we are around - there are
page if anyone was interested in
individuals that don’t care about the
acquiring all of the equipment,” he
newest IPA - they need to know that
us up to The Brew Bridge.
said. “We thought it was the perfect
we’re a good option for them, too.
opportunity for us. The equipment
“Milewide
was already there, and it had been a
beers
functional bar for some time - the
experimenting
“Owensboro was the largest city
during
with
existing
ones.
The taproom features a plethora
craft beers that would excite most consumers from connoisseurs to casual drinkers. They also feature wine and limited liquor options with plans for a kitchen and food items in the future.
“We are really excited to be a part
of downtown Owensboro,” he said. “It’s an exciting time and I think downtown is about to take off, from “We’re both trying to bring good
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locally-made beer to Owensboro,
constantly
it’s definitely a ‘rising tide floats all
produced 2020,
tweaking
over
new
recipes
boats’ mentality.” OL
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LIGHTING UP
Downtown Written by M A R LY S M A S O N
T
Photos by TA N N E R + W E S T
he Owensboro Bridge has
firsthand.
right up until his passing.
been creating a buzz of
“It really was a true passion,”
excitement
locals
this
holiday
Since the lights came on, many have
said Assistant City Manager Lelan
season with its vibrant color schemes
visited downtown to take pictures
Hancock. “His boys got to be the ones
and designs. With over 500 LED-like
with the color patterns and designs
to light the bridge [with the Mayor]
lights, the $1.9 million dollar project
that are programmed to change
and pay tribute to him.”
was celebrated through a dazzling
weekly for now.
light display in November that was
The late David Edds originally
off for seven years after a fatality
moved to a virtual event, thanks to
approached the city with an idea
occurred when the bridge was being
COVID-19 restrictions. Still, some
for pendant lights at the top of the
repainted, but City officials made the
attended in person so they could
blue bridge, and he spearheaded the
relighting a priority in recent years,
experience
relighting project for several years,
and had hoped to have it lit by the
the
newly-lit
bridge
and
out-of-towners
The lights on the bridge have been
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end of 2019. But permits, litigation
Tim Ross. “It seems to be really
and other setbacks, including delays
appreciated by our community.”
road,” Ross said.
because of the pandemic, pushed it
The lighting schemes have the
back almost a year.
capability to be solid or a pattern,
Hancock said that Mother Nature
then have fluid motion to light up
did not help, but once the rains
the downtown landscape. They can
bridge, and once the community
stopped, production level picked
also coordinate with the lighting
saw the end result, there have been
up
at the downtown parking garage
many positive comments and photos
inspectors and those with “boots on
and
the ground” were able to execute a
Center. Ross said they are able to
of people visiting the renovated
plan.
create programming for effects set
“Many people have been waiting
to music, much like the fireworks
for it for so many years,” said City of
display that Owensboro experienced
“They
Owensboro Public Events Director
in July 2020.
seeing it,” he said. OL
and
the
engineering
team,
the
Owensboro
Convention
“We have several ideas down the
Hancock said that he has always
been excited about relighting the
downtown and then posting their photos to social media. are
just
overwhelmed
The bridge, often referred to as the “Blue Bridge,” is also known as the “Glover H. Cary Bridge,” in honor of the Owensboro congressman who helped arrange the financing for the project. But the official name is the “Owensboro Bridge.” While the entrance has a plaque that says the bridge is “Dedicated to the Memory of Glover H. Cary,” the name was never officially changed. Most people also may not know that the Owensboro Bridge originally opened as a toll bridge in 1940. Dr. Dan M. Griffith, an Owensboro physician, had the honor of paying the first toll on the bridge when it opened in 1940 and the last toll right before it became toll-free at 12:01 a.m. on August 18, 1954.
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M I LT O N T . H A L L
Unsung Hero Written by S T E V E N W I L S O N Photo by M O N I C A S M I T H
In a city with such a robust history, perhaps one of our greatest heroes remains largely unknown to many. Memorialized with a highway bearing his name and a permanent display at the Owensboro Regional Airport, the story of Milton T. Hall is one we should all know and remember.
T
he beginning of the story takes us back to 1939, when Hall moved from Bloomington,
Indiana to Owensboro. The Second World War had begun abroad, but it would be another two years before the United States entered the fray in December 1941. Also in 1941, the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, already a training ground for black civilian pilots, was chosen by the United States Army Air Forces as the site for training black pilots for military duty. Segregation was still the law of the land, and in addition to facing discrimination in employment and housing,
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black Americans could not even vote.
other Tuskegee Airmen.
But the U.S. military faced a potential
Courageous men like Hall went
shortage of pilots. And though enlisting
from being completely shut out of the
black soldiers while denying them
military to becoming decorated war
the right to vote was undeniably both
heroes that not only played a crucial role
hypocritical and exploitative, it also
in their country’s victory, but blazed a
opened a door to a group of promising
trail for black servicemembers, and left
young aviators, eager to seize the
a proud legacy for all who followed in
opportunity and take to the skies.
their footsteps.
Among those men was Owensboro’s
Tragically,
Milton T. Hall.
Milton T. Hall died in an accident at
Naively, many of those in power
age 27 on September 18, 1947, when
believed that black individuals did
his AT-6 plane collided with another
not possess the intelligence or skill to
plane during a practice exercise. During
serve as military pilots. But that did
his brief life, both his achievements
not deter Hall or others like him who
and the barriers he overcame to reach
sought not only to enlist, but to excel.
them were truly remarkable.
And in spite of misguided preconceived
community, Hall also left an imprint
notions of their abilities from those in
through his involvement in the H.L.
the military, as well as an overtly racist
Neblett Community Center.
climate in the nation as a whole, Hall
and his fellow black pilots proved all
Holloway, carried on his legacy by
their doubters wrong.
retelling her brother’s story to students
and historians.
Though no one knew it at the time,
Second
Lieutenant
In our
After his death, Hall’s sister, Emily
In her own right,
these brave men would go on to become
Holloway also made a lasting impact on
one of the most revered squadrons in
Owensboro. Beginning in 1992, she led
U.S. military history – the Tuskegee
the Greenwood Cemetery Restoration
Airmen.
escorting
Committee, which worked to restore
bombers to protect them from enemy
the 16-acre cemetery that was founded
planes, the Tuskegee Airmen piloted
by a group of African American men
P-51 Mustangs during raids deep into
in 1906.
enemy-occupied territory.
Tasked
with
Holloway was honored for
With the
her efforts in 1999 with a Mayor’s
tails of their planes painted red, they
Award for Excellence. Because of their
famously became known as the “Red
contributions to our city, individuals
Tails.”
like Milton Hall and Emily Holloway are
In addition to being a “Red
Tail” pilot, Hall also trained numerous
truly Owensboro’s unsung heroes. OL
Hall’s roots in Owensboro date back to well before the 1940s. Hall and Holloway are the great-grandchildren of Edward Claybrook, who, in 1882, formed a committee to fight for fair funding for the city’s black schools. At the time, a Kentucky law provided that black schools would be funded by taxes paid by black citizens. Because finding jobs and housing were difficult after the Civil War, this created a grossly disproportionate schooling system. Claybrook filed a lawsuit in Federal District Court (Claybrook v. Owensboro), challenging that law on the grounds that it denied black children equal protection of the laws as guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. Claybrook and his committee won the suit, and a law was passed the following year that funded black and white schools from a common fund. This civil rights victory is memorialized with a plaque in KendallPerkins Park.
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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M U R A L C R E AT E S
A LASTING LEGACY Written by M A R LY S M A S O N
Photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
A project that was first conceptualized in
2015 is finally off the ground. The Northwest Neighborhood Alliance, led by chairperson Rafe Buckner, has begun a collaboration with Aaron Kizer to create a timeline of African art meant to celebrate unity and the Black community.
“We wanted it [to be] local as much as we
could, and Aaron is probably the biggest artist here,” Buckner said.
An over 600-foot long and 60-foot high wall
separates Kendall Perkins Park and an adjacent neighborhood, and the mural will be created in phases along the wall with Kizer working on the initial section and then collaborating with other artists who will paint the concluding panels.
Kizer said they began the first phase in
November 2020 so that people could have faith that it was actually happening.
“Five years of work gives a visual,” Kizer
said, but added that to garner interest from other artists, they needed to begin the mural so others could see it really is going.
Bucker said the goal is to have the finished
wall mural by 2025, although the Alliance hopes it will be earlier.
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
29
The first section celebrates ancient
to items that others may not have
powerful and thinking about what
Africa, and is represented by Egyptian
access to through his experience in the
people can do to better society for the
portraits. Kizer said the concept and
art world and construction world.
future is why Kizer said he wanted to be
idea were developed before beginning
part of this.
the massive undertaking, which allows
the beginning of the mural that he has
“I may not see the fruits of the
for a cohesion to the whole wall.
done, but rather the work he hopes will
labor, but my kids will,” he said. This
be done in the future.
“The concepts were already decided
Kizer said that his takeaway is not
future thinking is what draws him
by those it was representing,”
to do one project over another as
he said. “Everything on there,
he gets older. He ponders, “What
I was given. I could change the
will I leave behind for my family
layout but [had to] stay true to
and their kids?”
the images.”
The
What drew him to this
wall
is
unique,
and
needs to be promoted as a tourist
project was the history of the
attraction, Buckner believes, and
wall, which was originally built
hopes that when people begin
for segregation. Kizer’s two
traveling again, it is one of the
children are half Cambodian
attractions that people visit in
and he realized that there are
Owensboro, since it is “basically
no representations of them
on the doorstep of downtown.”
or their culture locally. He is
The
hoping that this mural can be
applicants
more than a painting to those
alliance to
is
seeking
contribute
their
represented.
“It’s the tail end that extends
painting talents to the mural, and can
“That wall will represent history,
metaphorically for Owensboro,” he
email kendallperkinsmural@gmail.com,
and the history on it is important,”
said. “How does the future take the
if interested. Funding for the wall is
Kizer said. And while he will not be the
idea and progress further? How do we
also important, and those interested in
sole artist working on the mural, he
do it to teach each other?”
donating can contact Adrienne Carrico
will stay involved because of his access
Being
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
part
of
something
this
at 270-687-8561. OL
HOME: GROWING FORWARD p. 32
SENIOR LIVING: SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO p. 36
HEALTH:NEW YEAR HEALTHIER YOU p. 38
→
Photo by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
LIFESTYLE
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Lifestyle H O M E
Growing Forward Written by A S H L E Y W E D D I N G Photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
W
hen the historic downtown WeatherBerry home was put up for sale, officials at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden considered purchasing
it with the intent of establishing a welcome center. But with the $575,000 price tag, Garden board members opted to push forward with plans to build a new welcome center and outdoor pavilion.
But when the WeatherBerry owners, Shana and Ed Champion,
lowered the price of their home by $100,000, all of the Garden
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
board unanimously agreed to scrap the building
and breakfast for 10 years in the early ‘90s.
plans and make an offer. Since September, the
The Tylers actually gave the WeatherBerry
3,848-square-foot WeatherBerry farmhouse
its name, derived from its previous owners,
has officially been owned by the Garden.
the Berry family, who owned the property for
“This integrates the new with the old,” said
75 years. The Berry patriarch was involved in
WKBG Executive Director Laurna Strehl. “This
local weather reporting. Combining those two
will bring a bigger presence to the Garden,
ideas, the Tylers came up with WeatherBerry.
because we will be visible from Second Street.
“The WeatherBerry has a history with
It really launches us to get us on the map in
the Garden,” Strehl said. “It is coming full
a bigger way. But it also shows we’re not just
circle, which makes this whole story more
talking about growing and changing. This is
heartwarming.”
evidence we are moving in that direction.”
The return of the 1840 home to the Garden
Register of Historic Places, has been well
is a full circle milestone. Bill and Susie Tyler
maintained throughout its history, with a
who donated the original 8 acres for the
fully-renovated
Garden in 1993, were the former owners of
space, which Strehl will use for meetings,
the WeatherBerry, and operated it as a bed
events and a gift shop. But in changing the
The WeatherBerry, which is on the National
kitchen
and
ample
open
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33
Lifestyle H O M E
The WeatherBerry is not the only change Western Kentucky Botanical Garden has made. Mile markers will soon line the outermost walking path on the property to entice community members to utilize the Garden for exercise. A special fragrant garden has been planted to enjoy in 2021, as well as a labyrinth project, which Executive Director Laurna Strehl says will be fun for children and an excellent spot for photography.
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
home to be zoned as a business,
brought in $70,000. Strehl said
specific modifications must first
this will allow her to proceed with
occur,
the
making the bathroom accessible
widening
and adding a ramp to the home.
including
building
making
accessible,
the driveway and expanding the
Strehl
parking area.
needs for the property will come
in around $200,000.
“I wish I could make it move
estimates
the
asphalt
faster,” Strehl said. “Step one
was getting it rezoned. I may have
that much money on asphalt,”
to fundraise before I can make all
Strehl said. “I would rather spend
of the changes.”
that money on a gorgeous statue
or some significant new garden.
The Garden held a Backwoods
Brawl
bourbon
raffle,
which
“We are not excited to spend
But we understand that that
money needs to be spent on the infrastructure.” Buying the WeatherBerry was a more expensive option than building a new welcome center, but the history and charm the home will bring to the Garden outweighed the extra cost. “I am always looking at things from a visitor’s perspective,” Strehl said. “I want people to leave there with a strong memory about how wonderful their experience at the Botanical Garden was and having this house as the new entrance — first impressions are everything. And that’s a pretty wonderful first impression.” OL
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
35
Lifestyle S E N I O R
LIVING
Something to Look Forward to Written by D A N A P E V E L E R
I
went to a department store this
matter – to look forward to something.
the bottom of the barrel and just looked
week. To me, it’s a whole different
The realization changed me, it reminded
forward to the lunch menu, other days it
feeling to shop for clothes or gifts
me what life before COVID was like and
was wearing something new, or getting
than it is shopping for groceries, and I
that I had stopped being hopeful; stopped
my hair done.
felt like a bird out of a cage! I hummed
creating things to look forward to.
though, and it worked!
along with the piped in music, smiled at
wondered if our seniors felt the same way,
people behind my mask, then realized I
and what they did to maintain resilience
day – how about making it the day you’re
needed to speak the words, “Hi, how’re
and hope. A lot, as it turns out! Here’s
going to treat yourself to your favorite
you?” I even caught myself rambling on
what they suggest for a New Year and new
dessert or meal at a drive through? Maybe
and on with the poor girl at the checkout.
you!
before your online weekly Bible Study,
In reflection, I think I had been so looking
forward to going someplace fun, just to
to. I should’ve remembered this!
As a
that you would’ve had if you’d gone in
have fun, that the experience was even
kid, sometimes going to school seemed
person. Was shopping something you
more pleasant than it may have been
endless and plain awful. To get through
did on Fridays? If you’re anxious about
otherwise.
some of the longest dry spells, each night
getting out to shop, ask your favorite local
I
Plan things you can look forward
I did this religiously,
Rather than making Monday laundry
make yourself a plate of refreshments
It dawned on me that it had been a
at bedtime, I would make myself find
shops if they have websites, hop online
very long time since I had given myself
at least one thing I could look forward
and use one of my new favorite buttons,
a reason – or even permission for that
to the next day.
“Add to Cart”! You can even buy yourself
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
Sometimes, I scraped
or your favorite shopping
cancellations, some for up
buddy gift cards to use later
to 18 months from January,
to give each other something
2021?
to look forward to! Have a favorite restaurant that you frequented?
Set
yourself
up a day to order carry out. It’ll help the restaurant, and
Hotels, condo and
house rentals are all offering no-fee changes so that you focus on the fun of the trip. Look online or give them a call
satisfy cravings, too!
to see what their policies are.
Finding something to look
While we’re planning for
forward to doesn’t have to be
2021, let’s also sprinkle in
costly, just creative.
I can’t
large amounts of gratitude.
get out to go see my favorite
It is natural for us to get
new releases at the movies, but I’ve watched with great anticipation, the return of some of my favorite series and book releases! It can even
into
the
cycle
of
talking
about the disappointments of 2020. to
I was encouraged
acknowledge
those
be as simple as taking a day
disappointments,
and committing to not doing
to
a single thing. Not cooking,
something I am grateful for.
not cleaning … zip! I realize
It could just be a review of
we’re a nation of workaholics,
your day and realizing all you
but this new stress we’re under is a job in and of itself. Take a break from the stress and pamper yourself, you’ve earned it!
match
each
accomplished.
but one
with
It was hard
at first, but after trying it, I have to say, it changed my focus and left me feeling more
Plan reunions and parties!
positive and hopeful. Again,
Plan them with your friends.
some days I have to fall head
Plan them with your families.
first into that deep barrel,
Plan every detail – make it a
legs sticking straight up in the
fantastic event because when
air, to dig out something I’m
we can all get back together – and we will – it will truly be cause to celebrate. Involve everyone – make calls, write letters, emails … every single
grateful for, but I promise you, if you commit to coming up with just one thing, you’ll find two, then three, and then your
detail. If you’re worried about
focus will shift from heartache
having to change it, plan for
to hope. Personally, each and
that!
every day, I’m thankful for
Has
your
squelched?
travel
been
everyone who has made an
Mine,
too.
effort to sacrifice their own
Rather than focus on what we’re lacking, let’s plan that vacation! Plan your wardrobe, make arrangements for your pets, make lists, and make
comfort for the safety of our seniors and our community. We have all changed for the better – I truly believe this!
notes on your calendar. Did
That should give us all hope
you know most airlines are
for a much, MUCH better New
offering no-fee changes and
Year! OL
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
37
Lifestyle H E A L T H
SPONSORED CONTENT
NEW YEAR, HEALTHIER YOU!
A
new year is a great time to make
recognize when you are
lifestyle changes. Many people
feeling full. Choose more
make New Year’s resolutions
vegetables, fruits, whole
that will help them feel better, be more
grains and fat-free or
productive or spend more time with
1% milk dairy products.
family. The key is to focus on things that
Cut back on foods high in
will enhance your own wellness. We can’t
solid fats, added sugars
be our best or care for others if we don’t
and salt. Also make sweet
invest in our own self-care. Since this
treats
past year has been full of challenges, 2021
enjoy on occasion and
offers a blank slate and a chance to make
not every day. Be sure to
your own health a priority.
stay hydrated when being
something
you
family or friends remotely. Continue to
active.
connect with your church or other groups
Here are some tips to maintain a healthy
SLEEP AND REST. Getting enough sleep and
lifestyle in 2021:
rest is not only essential to your physical
BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE.
It is important to
health, it affects your mental health as
exercise and keep your body moving. There
well. EHE Health, a company focused on
are numerous studies that document the
preventive healthcare, suggests setting a
benefit of exercise. Dr. Richard Simpson,
sleep schedule so that you go to bed and
PH.D, is quoted in his article Exercise,
wake up at the same time every day. Relax
Immunity and the COVID-19 Pandemic
before bedtime by practicing meditation
as saying that exercise not only keeps the
and deep breathing, playing soothing
body fit, but boosts the immune system.
music, reading a book or taking a warm
“Not only can exercise have a positive
bath. Try avoiding the use of electronic
direct effect on the cells and molecules of
devices such as computers or phones
the immune system, but it is also known
before bed.
confinement stress on various aspects of
MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
immunity.” Try to be active daily. Take
something you are thankful for every
a walk, participate in an exercise class
day. Take the time daily to write down a
in person or virtually, or put on music
blessing that you have. It is important to
and dance in your family room. The
understand that things happen but take
main point is to keep your body moving.
the time to learn from mistakes and be
The recommendation is to maintain 150
willing to get back on course. Be sure to
minutes of exercise each week.
allow yourself some time for fun activities
Think of
you enjoy. U.S.
HEALTHY.
According
Department
ChooseMyPlate.gov
of
to
HAVE A SUPPORT SYSTEM.
It is important
website, habits for
to maintain connectivity to family and
maintaining a healthy diet include eating
friends. While COVID-19 has made it hard
smaller portion sizes, eating slowly to
to be together due to social distancing,
enjoy the taste and textures, and paying
there are creative ways to still stay in
attention to how you feel. Use hunger and
touch. Take time to contact friends via
fullness cues to recognize when to eat and
telephone for a conversation. Schedule a
when you’ve had enough. Eat slowly and
video call for a group and catch up with
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
appreciation to those you haven’t seen for a while. Invite a friend to take a walk outside – just maintain distance and wear a mask.
LEARN SOMETHING NEW.
Take the time to
learn something you’ve always wanted to do. Schedule the dance lessons or drawing class you’ve always wanted to take. Take advantage of virtual options that offer free instruction or resources to get you online class or program to enhance your skills.
The beginning of 2021 offers a chance
to start with a renewed outlook. Investing in your own health and wellbeing will provide many positive outcomes and ensure you are the best you can be!
Ready to make your health a priority?
Let the Owensboro Health Healthpark be
the
Agriculture’s
porch visit or delivery of a small token of
started. Maybe consider signing up for an
to counter the negative effects of the
EAT
you participate with virtually. Plan a front
your
wellness
resource!
Visit
OwensboroHealth.org/Healthpark. OL
Written by
COLLETTE CARTER
Director of the Owensboro Health Healthpark
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
THE 2021
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Photo by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
WEDDING GUIDE J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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The Wedding Guide
H OW T O
Postpone Your Wedding Written by J A C Q U E L I N E J O R DA N R U S S E L L Photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
If you’ve decided to postpone your wedding, or you’re thinking you might have to – I can relate. We planned an April destination wedding in New Orleans with our closest friends, and the pandemic exploded about two weeks before our big day. Once we realized things weren’t going to get better quickly, we decided to scrap our plans and have an intimate wedding closer to home. Now, looking back, we wouldn’t change a thing. While wedding planning in a pandemic isn’t ideal - there’s still space to create a memorable wedding ceremony, even if it’s not your original plan.
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
A
s a wedding photographer
packages and elopement days for
schedule farther out. If you’re
and former event planner,
couples who have to change up
moving forward with a micro
I know all those details that
their wedding day.
wedding, you probably don’t
make up your big day and how
have to schedule as far in the
important they are. If you’re
REACH OUT TO YOUR VENDORS
future as someone hoping to
considering
your
Next, reach out to all your
have 200 guests. After you make
ceremony, here are some tips to
vendors – your photographer,
considerations for the pandemic,
help you through this tricky time.
caterer, florist, etc. – with your
ask these questions:
potential new dates and see when
When are we available?
postponing
CONTACT YOUR VENUE
they’re available. Some of them
will likely be booked for your new
Your venue is probably your
When are our families available?
and
date, but hopefully your most
When is our venue available?
the hardest to reschedule, so
priority ones will have similar
When is our photographer
start there. Let them know the
availability.
available?
most
important
vendor,
situation and find out what
When are other important vendors
other dates they have open. They
CHOOSING YOUR NEW DATE
may have the majority of their
After seeing what dates are
Saturdays booked, but there’s
open, pick a new one that feels
nothing that says a Friday or
comfortable to you. If you’re
one or two dates!
Sunday wedding can’t be just
dreaming of a large wedding,
FORMALLY TELL YOUR GUESTS
as
are
keep the health guidelines and
If you’ve already sent out
even putting together special
capacity limits in mind and
your invites and your new date is
great.
Some
venues
available?
Ideally, that will land you on
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
43
The Wedding Guide VENU E : W E AT H E R B E R RY HOUSE (N OW OW N E D BY T H E W ESTERN K Y B OTAN I CAL GARD EN) P HOTO GRAPH ER : JAM I E ALEXAND ER F LOW E RS: KD D ECOR C A K E : DALISHAS CAT E RIN G: M I LL ER HOUSE
within the next three months, you may consider sending out an updated invitation digitally. If you’ve only sent your save the date cards, a great option is to send out “change the date” cards and an updated invitation later.
Remember that some things don’t hinge on your
date, so you can go ahead and get your invitation envelopes addressed (especially if you’re having them professionally calligraphed) and have them for when you’re ready!
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
One big concern couples have about moving their
wedding to a different season is making it work with the color palette you’ve chosen. For instance, how will your spring colors look in fall? Talk to your florist about how to be mindful of the season, but still keep your dream colors. Don’t limit yourself! Those beautiful spring colors can transition into fall with the right shade, and you can add lighter accents to fall colors to make them work any time of the year. The key is to communicate with your florist. If you’re changing seasons, you might also be rethinking how your food and cake will fit into the new
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
45
time period. If you’re changing to a fall wedding from spring or summer, you might consider changing your fruity cake flavor to one that’s more like pumpkin spice. If you’re downsizing your guest count, you can still have a beautiful wedding cake - just change the number of tiers to be more appropriate.
With a little imagination, a lot of patience and the
help of your wedding vendors, you can still have a perfect wedding day, even if it looks nothing like your original plan. OL
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The Wedding Guide
Choosing the Right Ring
P
reparing to pop the question this
Valentine’s
Day,
but
unsure how to choose the
right engagement ring? Read on for all the tools you need to make the perfect pick!
While choosing an engagement
ring can be exciting, the variety of settings, precious metals, and diamonds can be overwhelming. However, the following tips will help
you
in
finding
the
ideal
diamond engagement ring.
SET YOUR PRICE LIMIT.
Before you start shopping, know
how much you want to spend. There is no right or wrong amount to put toward a ring, and many beautiful stones and styles are available to suit any budget. It’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds can be up to 40 percent less expensive than mined stones.
CONSIDER SHAPE.
surrounded by smaller diamonds;
The common diamond shapes
classic, which features a row of
used
in
round,
engagement cushion,
princess,
radiant,
are
accent diamonds along the ring
oval,
band; and vintage, which replicates
emerald.
design styles from different time
rings
pear, and
Each of these shapes has its fans and
distinctive
features.
For
periods.
example, a round diamond is the
CONTEMPLATE YOUR CENTER STONE.
classic engagement ring style, but
When it comes to your center
the larger facets of a cushion style
stone, there are a few different
can enhance brilliance, and the
options to choose from. Although
elongated emerald cut presents a
diamonds are the most popular,
bold look that can make a diamond
birthstones, moissanite, and cubic
appear larger than its carat weight.
zirconia are also great budgetfriendly options. In regards to
CHOOSE A SETTING.
diamonds, there are two types to
Deciding the right setting or
choose
diamond shape for your stone is
and lab-created diamonds. While
a personal decision. Some people
mined diamonds are extracted from
have specific ideas for a setting,
the earth, lab-grown stones are
The cut of a diamond is the most
and take more time on the stone,
guaranteed to be ethically sourced
important factor in determining
or vice versa. However, not all
and, as mentioned above, up to 40
its fire, brilliance, and sparkle.
settings accommodate all shapes
percent less expensive. Both types
Color: Not all diamonds are clear;
so it’s important to prioritize one
are identical in terms of chemistry
some have varying tints of yellow.
or the other if you are set on a
and physical appearance. However,
Clarity: A measure of the number
particular shape or setting. Typical
interest in lab-created diamonds
of flaws or inclusions in the stone.
engagement ring styles include
has surged in recent years as
Carat: A measure of the weight
the solitaire, a simple band that
more couples are concerned with
of the diamond. However, more
showcases any diamond shape;
sustainability, as well as beauty and
weight also indicates a bigger size.
halo, in which a central stone is
romance. OL
LEARN THE “4 C’S” OF DIAMONDS.
These are: cut, color, clarity, and
carat. Here’s the translation: Cut:
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Owensboro Living J A N U A R Y / / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1
from:
mined
diamonds
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The Wedding Guide
5 TIPS FOR
Planning Your Perfect Registry Written by C H R I S T Y C H A N E Y
T
he moment that sparkly piece of
where you can set an appointment and
wedding is one of the few times it’s fun
wonder slides past the knuckle
get the 5-star treatment! And if you
for everyone. Bring the whole gang
on your left ring finger, it sets
do it all from behind a computer, it is
along. It’s an opportunity to create
into motion a string of events that will
a missed opportunity for a wedding
your home together. Some brides are
literally change the course of your life.
planning memory.
all about the dishes, but the grooms are
And so the planning begins.
excited to man a grill or stock a bar. And
There
are so many things to think about and
OPT FOR HEIRLOOMS. This is one of the
decisions to be made, and one of the
few times in your life to receive gifts
most important items up for discussion
that may very well be passed on to your
is, when it is all said and done, in what
grandchildren - items you would never
type of household will you be starting
purchase for yourself but will last more
your new life together.
Whether
than a lifetime. Be sure to put a few
eclectic, farmhouse chic, traditional or
pieces on your list that will stand the
modern, your look will be determined
test of time, like a crystal vase, julep
by the items you register for.
cups or china. A traditional piece or two
What follows are the top 5 things to
will carry you through each reinvention
remember when planning your registry.
of yourself, and be a reminder of where it all began.
REGISTER EARLY.
Once you utter that
LOVE IT! If you don’t love it, then leave
things to celebrate the momentous
it off! You should be excited to set the
occasion. As not to leave it all up to
table with your new dishes, hang dish
chance, this is when you can set the
towels from someone special in the
guidelines and esthetic for what type
kitchen, and display art that will trigger
of bride, groom and family you are and
a memory. Each item on your registry
will become. It is perfectly acceptable
is going to tell your love story, so make
to register in more than one place and
sure to love it all! If you receive an item
for a broad range of price points. You
that does not ignite that passion, it is
can always list each registry location
okay to exchange it for something that
on your online wedding profile, and
does. This is your home you are creating.
update it as needed. But try not to do it
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BRING PEOPLE.
that is what makes it fun. It’s a great time to plan your household together with your family and what is soon to be your new family.
FORGET THE RULES. If fine china is not your thing, then don’t get it! This is your registry, and there are no ceilings here. If you don’t want dishes at all, that’s fine, too.
Register for home
decor, serving ware, heck, a basketball goal is not completely off-limits at this
crucial “YES,” people want to buy you
all online. There are wonderful stores
sometimes it’s the exact opposite, and
point. Some guests prefer to stay the course of tradition and buy you staple household gifts, but others would love to give you something memorable that may be completely off the wall. The options are endless!
Find your local gift boutique, head
into the big box store, find an online site that offers a registry, and start building a home for your love to land in when the wedding whirlwind is over. Create a space and aesthetic to call your own, built piece by piece by the people who
Registering for your
love you most. OL
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The Wedding Guide
6 QUESTIONS TO ASK
Before Hiring Your Wedding Photographer
Some moments are simply too important to trust to a
camera phone.
Your wedding will be one of the most memorable times of
your life, and no one can capture it better than a professional photographer. So how do you find the right one? As you interview photographers, ask them these questions to help you determine if he or she is the right photographer for you.
1. Do you have a portfolio I can review?
Reviewing sample work allows you to see the
photographer’s style. Is it more formal or candid? Look for images you can see yourself in. Think of three words that describe you and share those with your photographer
2. Will you create a detailed shot list?
This list will ensure no important photo is missed during
your wedding. You should be able to create that list together. Take an honest look at what images really matter and fill your photographer in on situations he or she might need to be aware of in order to prevent awkward moments.
3. Do you have backup equipment?
You’ve prepared contingency plans for every other aspect
of your wedding; your photographer should as well. A true professional will always bring one or two backup cameras, lenses, flashes, lighting equipment, extra memory cards and batteries.
4. Do you have liability insurance?
Accidents happen, and if one of your guests trips over
your photographer’s light stand, it’s good to know you both are protected. Your reception venue may even ask the photographer to submit a certificate of liability ahead of time.
5. What happens to my images after the wedding?
Will your images be backed up to a hard drive or the cloud
once processed? How long will your photographer keep the images afterward? If you have any concerns about losing your photos, knowing what the photographer plans to do with your images after your wedding is important.
6. When will I get my photos?
Printed photos usually take several weeks, but your
photographer may be able to get you some images for social media quickly. Just ask.
You won’t be able to see everything that happens at your
wedding. The right photographer will capture moments you never knew existed. OL
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RECIPE: STAY WARM WITH HEARTY SOUPS p. 56
WHAT WE’RE EATING NOW: VEGGIE BURGERS p. 59
RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: ERNESTO’S p. 60
→
Photo by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
F L AVO R
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Flavor R E C I P E STAY WARM THIS WINTER
Hearty Soups Article and photos by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
T
here is nothing better than entering your house after a long day out in the cold
and smelling your warm dinner that’s almost done cooking in the crockpot. Soup and winter are a classic combination, and these comfort soups will hit the spot perfectly. Grab a bowl and curl up with some soup in front of the crackling fire (or virtual fire if you’re like me and don’t have an actual fireplace)! These soups taste best if you’re feeling as cozy as possible.
Lasagna Soup INGREDIENTS: 1 lb Italian sausage 1/2 lb ground beef 2 tbsp olive oil 1 yellow onion 4 garlic cloves, minced 6 cups chicken broth 1/8 cup tomato paste 2 14.5oz cans diced tomatoes (fire roasted) 2 tsp dried oregano 2 tsp dried basil 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
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salt & pepper to taste 2 bay leaves 8oz mafalda pasta (rigatoni, bowtie, or chopped up lasagne are good substitutions) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Heat olive oil in
a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and ground beef, and break it up in the pan as it cooks. Once it begins to brown, add the onion, garlic, oregano, dried basil, salt & pepper. Once the onion is translucent and the meat is browned, stir in tomato paste and let cook about a minute.
2. Transfer the meat
mixture into the crockpot before adding diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and bay leaves. Cover and cook on low for eight hours or high for four hours.
3. When there is about 30
Roasted Red Pepper, Tomato, and Smoked Gouda Bisque INGREDIENTS: 16oz. roasted red peppers
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. In a medium pan on medium heat, saute the onion and garlic in butter until
minutes left of cooking, stir in pasta and allow to cook to al dente.
3 cups chicken stock
the onion is translucent.
2 14.5oz. cans fire roasted tomatoes
2. Add sauteed vegetables and all other
4. Serve warm with fresh
1/8 cup tomato paste
basil, ricotta/parmesan mixture, red pepper flakes, and shredded mozzarella.
Optional garnish: mix an even amount of ricotta cheese with parmesan cheese and add a dollop to the soup. It’s great mixed in right before serving! I also recommend fresh basil and shredded mozzarella as additional garnishes.
1 yellow onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/8 cup butter
ingredients besides heavy cream into a crockpot. Cook on low for 4 hours
3. After 4 hours, use an immersion blender (or high-powered counter blender) to blend soup until smooth. Then pour back into the crockpot.
8 oz. smoked gouda, shredded 1/2 cup heavy cream
4. Stir in heavy cream and gouda and let cook for one additional hour. Serve warm!
2 tablespoons dried basil 1 teaspoon dried oregano salt & pepper to taste additional garnishes in notes
Notes: To make puff pastry hearts, cut your flattened puff pastry into your shape, then
→
bake as directed! I used this as a garnish, along with fresh basil and parmesan.
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Flavor R E C I P E
Chicken Lime Soup INGREDIENTS: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
celery, jalapeno, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until
2 tbsp olive oil
onions are translucent.
1 yellow onion, diced
2. Add raw chicken breast to
1 jalapeno, diced
the bottom of the crockpot,
4 cloves garlic, minced 2 10oz. cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
before topping with cooked vegetables and all other ingredients besides lime and cilantro.
3. Cook ingredients in the
1 tsp oregano
crockpot on high for four
1/2 tbsp cumin
hours, or low for eight hours.
1/2 tbsp paprika
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pan before adding onion,
6 cups chicken stock
2 ribs celery, diced
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INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Heat olive oil in a medium
After cooking, shred the chicken and stir in lime juice
Juice of 1 lime
and cilantro. Serve warm!
1/2 cup cilantro leaves -
Optional garnish: avocado,
chopped
tortillas, sour cream
Flavor D I S H
What we’re eating now With the New Year comes a resolve to make new, healthier choices. And if you’re looking to eat healthy, it helps to find dishes that taste great, too. Luckily, Owensboro has options when it comes to offerings that are both nutritious and appetizing.
Gene’s Health Food Known for their long history of providing flavorful healthy options, Gene’s doesn’t disappoint with their vegetarian burger patty on a sprouted grain bun. Add cheese, sprouts, tomato, or even avocado for a truly tasty experience.
Drake’s If you’re looking for a burger packed with flavor, but without the beef, then look no further than Drake’s black bean avocado burger. This spicy veggie burger is made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, chili peppers, chipotle-jack cheese, avocadolime slaw and honey-jalapeno mayo.
Gary’s Drive-In Maybe you’re not ready to leave all of your fried favorites behind just yet. Or maybe you’re just in the mood for that diner experience. If so, Gary’s has you covered. In addition to favorites like bison burgers and fries, this local spot also offers a veggie burger for those that want to lean in to that New Year’s resolution.
Owensboro has long been known for its love of eating out. Lucky for us, our options are always expanding. Check out these new restaurants, and let us know what you think by using #obkyflavor!
NEW
COMING SOON
LIZZIE’S DINER
J’S GOOD GRUB SECOND FOOD TRUCK
Long home to JD’s Restaurant, the building a
After earning a loyal following with his first food
1420 Breckinridge Street will see a new tenant in
truck in 2018, Jay Johnson plans to expand in the new
2021. Elizabeth Thompson plans to open Lizzie’s
year. Even with setbacks due to his health, Johnson’s
Diner at the location on January 4. With a crisp,
business continued to prosper, largely due to help
clean new look on the inside, Thompson and her
from his wife, Antoinette. Their success prompted
family are excited about their new venture. The
the couple to create a new food truck that will
restaurant will offer a full breakfast menu all day,
include vegan and gluten-free dishes, with options
as well as burgers and plate lunches.
like salads, veggie burgers, wraps and sandwiches.
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Flavor R E S T A U R A N T
SPOTLIGHT
ERNESTO’S MEXICAN BAR AND GRILL
Through the Fire
Written by L A U R A M U R P H Y
E
rnesto Martinez knows what it takes to get ahead. He spent years working toward his goals, yet he
refuses to take any credit for his recent successes.
After facing numerous setbacks to
his business in 2020, the new restaurant owner is still very positive about pursuing his dream. His
journey
in
the
restaurant
industry started with experience at Owensboro establishments like
La
Fiesta, Casa Martinez, Cinco De Mayo, and Mezcal.
After moving away from Owensboro
for 10 years, acquiring more experience in restaurants in other parts of the country, Martinez was excited to return to Owensboro to pursue his dream of opening his own restaurant.
Martinez officially opened Ernesto’s
Mexican Bar and Grill in early 2020, alongside his brother Oscar Martinez. He credits many people who helped him along the way, and says it would
shutdowns and a fire that closed his
few minor changes.
be impossible to repay them for the
business for nearly four months.
bathrooms, and fresh paint freshened it
kindness they have shown him.
“The kitchen caught fire in July, and
up a bit. The new, more efficient HVAC,
“Mezcal was a good experience
we had to wait months to open back
all LED lighting, and added insulation
for me. David Lanham, who owns the
up,” Martinez said.
should also help keep his utility bills
business on West 2nd Street, helped me
down substantially,” Hagan said.
a lot. He made a great difference in my
Construction, the actual fire damage
Hagan
life, and is just one of the people who
was pretty well contained to the kitchen
passionate, hard-working man, with
helped me through the years,” Martinez
area and roof above it. However, the
a never surrender attitude. He believes
said.
smoke damage more or less made it a
closing due to COVID-19 and a fire
According to Daniel Hagan, of Hagan
describes
But new floors,
Ernesto
as
a
own
complete gut job. The final product after
would be enough to make most want to
restaurant may have started years ago,
the restoration work may prove to be a
quit after opening a new restaurant.
but as his dream came to fruition in
blessing in disguise.
2020, he would face several obstacles,
“We put the building back pretty
day after we started putting the building
including
much just like it was with only a
back together, cleaning equipment,
His
60
plans
of
owning
mandatory
his
restaurant
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“He was there pretty much every
Photos by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
ERNESTO’S IS LOCATED AT 611 EMORY DR . IN OWENSBORO
painting tables, etc. And then maybe two
me well, blessed me, and texted me to
never stopped waiting for the restaurant
weeks after reopening, he gets hit with
check on us,” Martinez said.
to re-open. His patio with heated outdoor
a second round of shutdown. Somebody
Nearby businesses and patrons were
seating allows him to continue to serve
give this guy a break!” Hagan said.
pleased to see Ernesto’s able to re-open
his loyal customers even under less than
at the start of November, just before the
ideal circumstances.
to re-open, Martinez says the people he
second round of closures would hit.
met and the support of the community are
“We love that we can walk to Ernesto’s
love to open two more locations. As far
what carried him through a difficult time.
from our home and from our business.
as his favorite part of the business, he
He had over 1,000 Facebook followers
We are beyond blessed to have such great
enjoys seeing the restaurant teeming with
who he says were waiting for him to re-
neighbors in Wesleyan Park Plaza,” said
customers.
open so they could support his business.
Annie McCrary, owner of Pure Barre
Owensboro.
love this place. We picked up in November
people. Hocker Associates that own all of
On the other side of the struggles,
when we re-opened after the fire and even
our buildings over here are some of those
Martinez says he is left feeling the support
with this shutdown, we have support,”
great people. Everyone helped me, wished
of Owensboro, backed by customers who
Martinez said. OL
During the long months of waiting
“In those four months, I found great
In the future, Martinez says he would
“I like just seeing this place busy. I
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FROM THE ARCHIVES
Time-Honored
TRADITIONS Written by
L O R A W I M S AT T
W
eddings
are
filled
with
time-
honored traditions. Even in this environment
of
individuality,
creativity and a couple’s desire to make their wedding unique and different, many brides are still careful to wear something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue, and the groom must not see the bridal gown before the ceremony.
Brides wear white and carry flowers.
Rings are exchanged. Family and friends applaud the first kiss.
And of course, there is a wedding cake.
Many of these traditions are passed
down from generation to generation, usually without a thought regarding where the tradition originated. It’s just something we “do.”
But according to an article published
in the Owensboro Messenger on May 21, 1920, there is something couples used to “do” that is no longer done.
Let’s take a look back.
Writer Doris Blake published an article
titled “Wedding Cake Lore” that starts with the assumption that tiny items will be added to the batter of a wedding cake before it is baked. These items are designed to bestow a gift or blessing upon the guests
This photo was taken in June 1922 in Hobart, Indiana. This is the wedding of Myrtle Scharbach and Louis Kramer. Attendants include (standing left to right) Florence Ewigleben, George Kramer (brother of the groom), Elmer Scharbach (cousin of the bride) and Erna Piornack. The flower girl is Mary Grace Barnard. Erna is my second cousin once removed. I never met her but I have a quilt that she made and gave to my Mom’s cousin as a wedding gift. Erna’s grandfather is Wimsatt’s great-greatgrandfather. Her mother was a sister to Wimsatt’s great-grandfather. opportunity to make a wish, which is sure
to come true, and whoever finds a penny
other traditions and symbols associated
or dime is promised riches. This custom,
with the wedding cake. According to
which sounds a little like the Mardi Gras
this article, the dough for a wedding
custom of baking a tiny baby doll, coin,
cake should ideally be prepared by seven
A thimble is just the opposite: The
bean or another trinket into the King Cake,
maidens, which will ensure that the bride
person who finds this item is doomed to
has apparently gone by the wayside, but
has seven children. That might have
“an old maid’s fate.” Similarly, a button
perhaps 2021 will be the year for this old
sounded like a good idea back in 1920, but
foretells bachelorhood for the one who
tradition to be revived.
it’s less likely that very many couples will
finds this item in his cake.
want to commit themselves to such a large
lest their fortune break a tooth or be
family these days!
swallowed!
who find these items in their slice. The person who finds a tiny ring in his or her cake will be the next to marry. There is no notation of what this means if the person who finds it is already married!
A miniature wishbone – often made of
silver or gold – bestows upon its finder the
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Just tell your guests to chew carefully
The article goes on to describe many
Whether baked by seven maidens or
not, however, it is unlucky for a
bride to bake her own wedding
that if the crust of the
cake, and it is also unlucky for
wedding cake gets moldy
the cake to be tasted before
from standing, the marriage
the wedding. In the meantime,
will not turn out happily.
it was a good idea to keep the
This might be problematic
groom away while the cake was
in that household filled with
baking, for if he were to enter
unmarried sisters!
the house in the meantime, the
cake would fall. And if that, or
lot sharper in those days, for
any other accident should befall
the article reminds the bride
the cake, it was a guarantee of
and groom that if they cut
sorrow in married life.
their finger while slicing the
cake, that’s a bad omen.
When there is a wedding
The article also cautions
Knives must have been a
in the family for the first time,
Either way, the first slice
this article warns, a piece of
should be cut by the bride.
the wedding cake must be
Another
left in the house until all the
that the bride who serves
unmarried daughters are wed,
her cake to the poor would
or they will be doomed to lives
be promised good luck and
of spinsterhood. But on the
happiness. It’s good to know
other hand, if the bride leaves
that all acts of kindness and
a piece of wedding cake on her
compassion are rewarded,
plate and an unmarried woman
even in – dare we say it? – old
eats it, she will be married soon.
wives’ tales. OL
custom
suggests
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