Owensboro Living - November / December 2020

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

1

2

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

3

4

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

5

6

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

Contents

NOV/ DEC 2020 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 T H E AT E R

Bellevue Baptist Church finds the key to Christmas.

19 A R T

Owensboro duo tackles vintage furniture and more.

LIFESTYLE 42 G AT H E R I N G

The Party Space Place brings Owensboro a new place to party.

46 T R AV E L

Quarantine Camping: Local families are finding a new way to safely get away.

50 S E N I O R

LIVING

Finding Creative ways to Gather this Holiday Season

FLAVOR

FEATURES

24 WHY SURVIVE WHEN YOU CAN THRIVE? When the COVID-19 quarantine left most people stuck at home enjoying some downtime, Jason Koger took the opportunity to finally write a book.

B Y D A N N Y M AY

32 REMAINING CONSTANT

As a self-proclaimed planner, and someone who is typically prepared in advance, he did not see this coming. Nonetheless, Owensboro Public School’s newlyappointed superintendent has chosen to take his lemons and make lemonade during this unforeseen COVID pandemic.

BY GAIL E. KIRKLAND

58 R E C I P E

28 STEEPED IN TRADITION

Gingerbread pancakes are a great way to warm up a chilly winter day.

O.Z. Tyler completes a rebrand to embrace the distillery’s history as Green River Distilling Company. And besides the name change, they’ve added custom on-site artwork from Aaron Kizer.

59 D I S H

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

Colby’s Fine Foods and Spirits is standing the test of time.

38 HUMBLE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

What we’re eating now: Local dishes we can’t live without!

60 R E S TA U R A N T

SPOTLIGHT

SPECIAL SECTION

Owensboro’s junior quarterback Gavin Wimsatt is gaining national attention as one of the country’s top high school prospects. But the Red Devil’s attitude and humility are equally as impressive as his football talents.

66 SHOP LOCAL

Christmas is just around the corner, and these local shops are full of one-of-a-kind gift ideas!

BY STEVEN WILSON

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

7

Trending B E H I N D

THE SCENES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Closing Out An Eventful Year

F

all is here and Thanksgiving and Christmas are right around the corner. That means two things: 2020 is almost (finally) over, and this marks our last issue of Owensboro Living for the year. To go out with a bang, we’ve packed this edition from cover to cover with some great new content.

Looking for an event venue to host a socially-distanced holiday gathering?

The Party Space Place provides a great spot to get together with friends and family in a private, chic setting. And if you’re searching for a bigger location to host a party, check out the newly-rebranded Green River Distilling Co. (formerly O.Z. Tyler), where a prominent local business has gone back to its roots and embraced its proud company history. Whether large or small, Green River has the space and the staff to make your event memorable.

And if you’re looking for something outdoors, there’s still time to get in some camping before the temperatures cool even more. As writer Laura Murphy tells us, campers and RVs have become hot ticket items during COVID-19. Those looking for a safe way to travel during the pandemic have rediscovered their love for the outdoors, whether it’s in a brand-new recreational vehicle or a DIY remodel. Whether you’re an enthusiast or on the fence about camping, reading about these families’ outdoor adventures will certainly peak your interest.

All of this, plus get in the spirit of the season with a behind-the-scenes look at Bellevue’s Wonder of Christmas production; get a preview of local author Jason Koger’s inspirational story of his recovery after amputation; and meet Gavin Wimsatt, a local high-school football star who is gaining muchdeserved national attention.

As always, thanks for reading, enjoy your holiday festivities, whatever they may look like this year, and we’ll see you again in 2021.

STEVEN WILSON, EDITOR steven@owensboroliving.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR

Steven Wilson PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jamie Alexander Gail E. Kirkland John Kirkpatrick Laura Murphy Dana Peveler Melody Wallace Lora Wimsatt COPY EDITOR

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

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

Brock Quinton Robert Williams

Owensboro Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise.

For more information about advertising call 888-304-5416 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

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

Jamie Alexander

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

Andrea Roberson AD DESIGNER

Monica Smith

DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey

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

SUBSCRIBE

owensboroliving.com/subscribe

W H AT I ’ M RE A D I N G Saying Wright Thompson writes about sports is like saying John Lennon wrote music. Such a simple statement doesn’t do enough to capture the author’s deep and thoughtful exploration of the personalities, histories and cultures of his subjects. Thompson doesn’t just pen stories about athletes; he creates a contextual landscape that allows his readers to submerse themselves in some of sports’ most time-honored traditions. With his book, Thompson compiled a collection of essays that range from tackling the end of Tiger Woods’ career to the impact of Hurricane Katrina on New Orleans and its athletes. Even if you wouldn’t call yourself a sports fan, Thompson’s writing is too good not to read.

8

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

ONLINE

owensboroliving.com issuu.com/tannerpublishing owensboroliving owensboroliving

oboroliving

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

ON T HE COV E R Zach, Jackie, and Channing Smith with their remodeled vintage camper.

Jackie was inspired by a camper turned boutique at a fall market in Greenville, Kentucky a couple years ago. She thought it would be a great fit for her handmade jewelry business, Jackie Blue Handmade. So Zach, along with Jackie’s step-dad, Mark Schmitt, as well as her brother-in-law, late

Most liked story from September G A B E ’ S T O W E R : A L O O K B A C K AT AN OWENSBORO ICON WRIT TEN BY LAURA MURPHY

father-in-law, and friends pitched in to gut and finish the camper exactly how she had envisioned. It’s been a really fun addition to the business!

SUB SCR IB E TO OWE NSB OR O LIVIN G !

We’re proud to offer our

PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY

Fun fact from the Smiths: They also

publication free to our readers

have a baby on board! Jackie is 12

at multiple sites throughout

weeks pregnant in the photo.

Owensboro. But since times are changing, and COVID-19

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

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

Picture This!

Owensboro Parent.

@ R E T R O H O L LY 1 9 6 6 Do you want to see your photo in an issue of Owensboro Living? Tag #obkyliving in your Instagram post for a chance to be featured.

Jackie Blue Handmade bracelets.

To subscribe now, visit owensboroliving.com/subscribe.

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

9

Trending N E W S W O R T H Y

5 things we’re talking about now

2

Care Net Owensboro Opens New Location After outgrowing their former Triplett Street building, Care Net Owensboro recently opened their new location on 18th and Sweeney Streets.

With the generous support of donors, the non-profit was able to move into a new building without incurring any new debt. Care Net offers free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, counseling, and educational courses for first-time parents.

1

Macey Brown Wins State Golf Championship

testing, treatment, and education at no charge. They provide incentives called

Apollo Junior Macey Brown won the KHSAA Girl’s Golf State Championship on

essential gifts for

October 10 at Bowling Green Country Club. Brown shot a 71-74, and was able to

expectant mothers

gain a shot on the final hole to force a playoff, where she converted a short par putt to win the championship.

10

They also offer STD

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

who complete the educational course.

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

5 New Senior Community

Photo by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

3

Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum has teamed up with Tanner+West to produce, publish and distribute “Bluegrass Unlimited” magazine.

Internationally-recognized as a prime

source for all things bluegrass music, the magazine has been in print for 54 years. Dan Miller, who ran “Flatpicking Guitar Magazine” for 20 years, will serve as the new editor of “Bluegrass Unlimited.”

4

Owensboro Makes National Travel List Travel website Insider.com recently listed Owensboro as one of the best places in the country to visit this fall. Owensboro was specifically praised for its barbeque, bourbon

and

farmers’

market.

Visit

Trilogy Management Services and DMK Development Group have announced plans to partner for the development of their next senior living community, with officials saying “families searching for a senior lifestyle community that perfectly blends compassionate care with clinical expertise will have a new option in Owensboro.” With the purchase of land in Gateway Commons, the companies hope to complete the project as early as Spring 2022. The community will feature 38 assisted living, 20 memory care, and 48 independent living apartments in a mixture of studio and one- and twobedroom suites.

Owensboro partnered with Bowling Green and Paducah last year to form Kentucky’s Americana Triangle of Quilts, Cars and Guitars, a campaign that is now drawing national attention. Other notable destinations listed include San Francisco, Tarrytown, New York, Vermont, Salt Lake City, the Smoky Mountains,

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

Salem, Orlando, Asheville and Boston.

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

11

12

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

THEATER: BELLEVUE FINDS THE KEY TO CHRISTMAS p. 14

ART: OWENSBORO DUO TACKLES VINTAGE FURNITURE AND MORE p. 19

→

Photo by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

CULTURE

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

13

Culture T H E A T E R

Bellevue Finds the Key to Christmas Written by M E L O D Y WA L L A C E

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

14

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

O

ver the past several years, Bellevue Baptist Church has reached thousands of visitors with their unique “Wonder of Christmas” productions. The one-of-a-kind live Christmas performance has

drawn visitors from near and far. Despite the impressive turnout in the past, the staff agreed that this year’s production would need to look a little different due to the impact of COVID-19.

“We’ve had about 3,330 to 3,500 come each year during the six

performances over the last four years,” said Worship Pastor JP Kwok.

“It’s increasingly gone up—the last two years have just been really exciting times in ministry.”

Kwok said the creative team at Bellevue works hard to update the

program each year, but now find themselves challenged with creating an engaging sensory experience like those in years past, while still adhering to the guidelines of social distancing.

“There’s nothing like seeing live animals and snow machines,” said

Kwok. “It’s the best thing in the

this new direction will help

volunteers,

including

world to watch people respond

us serve our community and

role

greeter

to something so beautiful in

beyond,” said Kwok.

member. This year will see

person.”

a much smaller number of

When

the

decision

was

Reminiscent of the father-

daughter

theme

he

had

from

every

to

cast

volunteers in very different

made not to do a large-scale

previously written, Kwok said

roles.

in-house production to a live

this year’s story has more of

preparations for a live walk-

audience, Kwok said he began

a grandfather-granddaughter

up or drive-up church event,

to pray about how the church

theme woven within a dream

the modest cast and crew,

could

sequence with a lot of magical

including lighting and graphic

to the community during the

elements running through it.

designer

Christmas season. He said the

director Wes Buehler, have

idea came to him at one o’clock

have done in the past—this is

been

in the morning while he was

way more in-depth writing and

locations throughout the area.

camping in the backyard with

character

his daughter. Within five days,

it does have the overarching

of

beautiful

he had written five chapters

shape

and

actors—like

of an impactful short story

Christmas,’” Kwok said. “This

storybook,”

that has now been cast for a

scares us to be honest. We’ve

“My

Bellevue original screenplay-

never done anything like this

the stained glass of the 21st

turned short feature film.

before, but we’re scaling up for

century. The whole goal is to

“We are sad that we cannot

it.”

literally illuminate the word of

serve

continue

the

to

minister

community

in

person, but we are hopeful that

“It’s not based on what we

of

development—but the

‘Wonder

of

Productions in past years

have

involved

nearly

200

Rather

than

Alicia

filming

“There

making

Berry in

will

and

multiple

be

a

lot

projections a

picture

Kwok

said.

philosophy

is

this

is

God—and that is the hope of this movie/feature film.”

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

15

Culture T H E A T E R Kwok said the feature itself

recommendations

should run about 50 minutes long,

month of December.

and a total of 70 minutes with the

addition of the pastor’s message

if they have reached their intended

and worship music. While he does anticipate that Bellevue will host an in-person Christmas Eve service this year, Kwok said plans are currently tentative, and are fully dependent on Governor Beshear’s

“We would love to reach 6,000 to 10,000 people that would have the opportunity to view it all the way through.”

Photos from past performances

16

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

during

the

As far as how the team will know

audience, Kwok said the team’s

to engage in some level of response.

“Our goal of having a livestream

is—at

the

end

of

broadcast—there

a

particular

would

be

a

goal is to share their story through

number to call and a team to

various forms of media, including

respond,” Kwok said. “The best

an eBook and audiobook version,

case scenario is if we got to talk to

along with a livestream component.

people.”

“There is no consistent number

to gauge how effective we are, but we would love to reach 6,000 to

Regardless of how different this

year’s creative production looks, it

10,000 people that would have the

will still maintain the familiar and

opportunity to view it all the way

ever-popular title “The Wonder of

through,” Kwok said. “Then, right

Christmas.”

before Christmas, we will release it

to the public in a shareable version.”

The church also hopes to utilize

Facebook and radio advertisements to

promote

the

livestream

production, and encourage viewers

“We will keep the title ‘The

Wonder

of

Christmas,’

because

people know it,” Kwok said. “But if I did retitle it, I would call it ‘The Christmas Key.’” OL

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

17

18

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

Culture A R T

ARK FURNITURE

Owensboro Duo Tackles Vintage Furniture and More Written by J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K Photos by M O N I C A S M I T H

O

all over the country.

their efforts, the two set out on

Isom and Kevin Gore have

Spending the early part of

their adventure, much like Noah

made

for

his career as a contractor, Isom

did in the Bible, hence the name

themselves in the vintage and

decided it was finally time that he

ARK Vintage Furniture. The two

rustic

The

used his talents to venture out on

most recently used their talents

business partners created ARK

his own. Rather than tackling the

to construct

Vintage Furniture in 2014, and in

new business venture by himself,

dwelling for Teddy Hatfield, the

just six short years have propelled

he

long-time

CEO of Flamingos for Amber,

their efforts to new heights.

friend Gore, who uses his time off

a local organization that helps

from the fire department to join in

those in need.

old barn wood looks popularized

on the efforts.

by Chip and Joanna Gaines on

“This craft has always been

he became a carpenter and built

the HGTV television show “Fixer

a passion of ours,” said Isom.

a ship,” he said. “That was a lot

Upper,” the two have been able

“We were eager to transfer our

of our inspiration. We also give

to stand out in a cluttered social

knowledge from building custom

back to the community by crafting

media landscape. Using Facebook

homes to the vintage furniture

custom pieces that can be used

as

industry.”

at auctions and other charity

wensboro

natives

quite

furniture

a

Aaron

name

industry.

Capitalizing on the shiplap and

their

primary

vehicle

for

reached

out

to

promotions and sales, they have

sold custom pieces to individuals

community at the forefront of

Placing

faith

and

the

a detached office

“Noah didn’t have a plan, and

events.”

A dream that began with modest

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

19

Culture A R T

goals to earn some extra cash by

all types of custom jobs – there

do, and we have a lot of fun doing

refinishing vintage furniture is

aren’t many services we don’t

it,” said Isom. “We’re always

now a full-scale construction and

offer.”

home-improvement

business.

As their business continues

tackling

new

challenges

and

searching for ways to improve.

While vintage furniture remains

to expand and grow, the two

prominent, the two are now into

decided it was finally time to

everything from laying sod to

build

building custom boat ramps that

work space. Their goal is to

For the latest into vintage

feature elaborate masonry and

complete

and

light work.

large-scale shop within the next

remain

dedicated

a

full-time

construction

on

a

up and do this every day.”

farmhouse

furniture,

or

to check out some of their

to

few months, which will allow

farmhouse furniture, and we

them to store their many pieces

rely heavily on our Facebook

while also giving them room to

page to promote those pieces,”

let their imaginations run wild.

their Facebook page at facebook.

said Gore. “We’ve expanded to

com/ARKVintageFurniture. OL

20

“We

themselves

We’re blessed to be able to wake

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

“We just really love what we

elaborate on-site construction and reconstruction efforts, visit

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

21

22

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

23

Why Survive WHEN YOU CAN

Thrive?

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

When the COVID-19 quarantine left most people stuck at home enjoying some downtime, Jason Koger took the opportunity to finally write a book.

24

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

“People have been telling me for years I need to write a

book to tell my story,” Jason Koger said from his home in the outskirts of Owensboro. He overviewed the main points of the book as we sat on the couch in his two-car garage that also serves as his workshop and man cave. Racing decals, framed photos, and magazine covers he’s been featured in cover the wall. “I finally decided it was time to do it.”

Like many public speakers, Koger faced months of

cancellations when the pandemic hit. He used his freed-up calendar to focus more time on his book, which he started in 2019.

Over the past 12 years, since a 4-wheeler accident that

resulted in the loss of both arms below the elbows, Jason has been sharing his story of overcoming obstacles through faith and a positive attitude. He started sharing that

“My story is not that I met God through my tragedy. I’ve always believed in God, even before my accident.

And I always knew He had a plan for my life. But now, I have a new purpose. I want to use my story as an example to everyone that God has a purpose for their lives, too.”

message at churches and schools

book to read like a movie. One

here in Owensboro. Soon after,

interesting feature of the book is

other churches started calling, and

how other people involved tell their

God opened more doors to speak

piece of the story, sort of how a

to congregations and conferences

documentary film carries the story

from Louisville to Las Vegas.

from one person’s perspective to

The title of the book came from

the next. So along the way you hear

Koger’s TedX talk, which was

from Jason’s parents, his wife, and

filmed last winter in Evansville, and

even the surgeon and nursing staff

posted in January of 2020. “I met

who cared for him at Vanderbilt

with the TedX speech coaches and

University hospital the night of his

we talked about my story and what

accident.

I wanted to say. The coaches helped

me come up with the theme for my

his accident, for example, unfolds

talk, which was titled ‘Why Just

in real time with what started like

Survive When You Can Thrive?,’”

any other lazy Saturday, until an

Koger explained.

unexpected turn of events left ER

The book actually opens with a

doctors calling for a life flight to

scene from the TedX talk, recalling

the Vanderbilt burn unit where a

how Jason began his presentation

dramatic surgery saved Jason’s life.

by holding up his favorite t-shirt

that says, “Look ma, no hands!”.

days after my amputation, so we

But that TedX talk just hits the high

had to have a way to continue the

constant support of his family for

points of his story of overcoming

story, because I basically don’t

helping him survive - and thrive!

adversity. “It’s actually easier to

remember anything from the time

talk for an hour than it is for 15

they wheeled me back to surgery

minutes,” Koger explains, “Because

until I woke up three days later,”

I can’t cover all the different parts

Koger explained.

of my story in an hour. So to boil it

down to 15 minutes is even harder.”

the recovery process of getting his

As a result, Jason doesn’t get

life back while adjusting to life as a

into the details of his accident in

bilateral upper arm amputee who

his motivational speeches. “Those

still wanted to be a good husband

details aren’t important anyway.

and an actively involved father.

What God has done with my life

Along the way, readers also get an

since then is what I want to focus

inside look into the importance

can imagine. I think Owensboro

on.”

of getting fitted successfully for

is the best place to live and raise

prosthesis,

another

a family because people here care

they want to know. This book is a

turning point for Koger. Today,

for each other and help out when

way to tell the whole story.

Jason is recognized in the industry

there’s a need. We saw that after

as one of the most proficient

the tornado, the ice storm, and any

Still, people are curious. And

Koger

says

he

wanted

the

The chapter about the day of

“Then, I was sedated for three

From there, the book describes

which

was

prosthesis users in the world.

Jason credits his faith in God and

“That’s one thing I always

stress is that I have an amazing wife and parents who have always supported me in everything, but I also can’t say enough about how amazing this community was to me and my family after my accident.

There were so many people - and some of them I didn’t even know who helped us out in every way you

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

25

time there’s a tragedy, people always step up and help a family who is struggling. You don’t see that in big cities. There’s no place I’ve ever heard of or seen that’s like Owensboro.”

And that perspective also explains the motivation

behind the Handing Back foundation, which Koger founded as a way to give back to others in Owensboro/ Daviess County who are in need of a helping hand.

“After the way this community rallied around me, I wanted to do something to help the next person,” Koger said.

Oh, and along the way he also shot a bear with a

crossbow, appeared on an episode of “Hawaii 5-O,” and had several other unbelievable adventures I don’t want to spoil.

Facing

unforeseen

circumstances

that

could

have easily left him depressed and defeated, Koger stayed positive, and now dedicates his life to making a difference for others, whether that’s through his motivational speaking engagements, Handing Back events, or showing new amputees how to use their prosthesis more efficiently by teaching them what he’s learned through his own experiences.

If you’re wondering how a guy with bionic hands

types a full-length book, well he hired a ghostwriter to type it. (That would be me!) But make no mistake, he can hold his own when it comes to communicating.

Truth be told, Jason can actually text as fast as anyone using an Android, which is touch sensitive, not finger sensitive like an iPhone. “The trick is I’ve got the T9 predictive text feature that lets me string letters to make words, so I can text pretty quick with my hooks,” he once told me.

Koger chose to publish his book through Butler

Books out of Louisville, Kentucky. At the time of this printing, a release date has not been set, but the book will be available in paperback and eBook versions this winter at Butlerbooks.com.

“More than anything, I want people who read this

book to know that bad things happen to all of us. We all go through tragedies. But we can keep a smile on our face. God will get us through.” OL

26

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

27

GREEN RIVER DISTILLING CO.

Steeped in Tradition Written by M E L O D Y WA L L A C E Photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

It has been said that tradition can be

both a link to the past and a bridge to the future. This adage holds true concerning the property at 10 Distillery Road and its rich history with distilled spirits. It has been 135 years since John W. McCulloch founded Green River Distilling Company near the riverfront of north Owensboro.

Despite a devastating fire, prohibition, and multiple owners, the distillery has survived, and has now returned to the name of its origin.

“It’s something that’s been part

of the plan from the beginning,” said Green River Spirits Manager of Visitor Experience, Nicole Ebelhar. “It took a few years and a little negotiating to get everything worked out.”

by

The distillery was purchased in 2014 Terressentia

Corporation.

Since

2016, it has run under the name O.Z. Tyler Distillery, named after Orville Zelotes Tyler III, the co-inventor of the TerrePURE process. This process allowed the distillery to rapidly mature its product and get it to market quicker; however, the rest of the process remained traditional.

“Everything we have done from

the beginning has always been the

28

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

traditional process—getting the grain, grinding the grain, distillation, and putting it in the barrel to age,” said Ebelhar. “Being a new distillery, we did not have old enough product for the market, so we used TerrePURE to get it out on the market faster.

The Green River Spirit will be aged a minimum of four years in the traditional way.”

Now that the distillery has been in operation for

four years, enough time for barrel aging, Ebelhar anticipates being able to launch bourbon whiskey product under the Green River Distilling Company label during the first quarter of 2021.

The name and the aging process are not the

only traditions at Green River Distilling Company.

During its official launch to the public on September 15, 2020, Green River unveiled a series of handpainted murals and signage revealing the distillery’s reclaimed name. Local artist and founder of Kizer Construction, Aaron Kizer, was commissioned to create the new signage, as well as signature murals on multiple rick houses.

“They reached out to me because they wanted

this to be very Owensboro and Kentucky-oriented,” Kizer said. “They are really proud of the fact that they are in Owensboro, and wanted something unique to here.”

Kizer said the overall intention was to make it appear as if the distillery had never actually shut down, but simply aged over time. In order to accomplish this task, Kizer said he pored over photos of old memorabilia in order to capture the essence of the brand.

“I literally sat down at a desk and tried to find

a way to modernize it just enough, but also keep it with the original Green River branding and Green River look,” Kizer said. “It wasn't like the whole thing needed to be changed; it just needed to be refreshed.”

The black and white front welcome sign, which

still sits on its original platform, was refaced to display more modern three-dimensional (3-D) lettering, along with a horseshoe shape reminiscent of that on the original Green River packaging. A similar black design is painted on the white brick inside of the event center.

The horseshoe can also be seen shadowed in the N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

29

30

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

back of a hand-painted mural on

“It’s a very low number and

has searched the country looking for

Rickhouse D. The mural, which reads,

signifies it as one of the earlier

these one-of-a-kind whiskey finds.

“Green River, the whiskey without

distilleries,” Kizer said. “It's cool

regrets,” pays homage to the original

because you don't initially know

Overall, Ebelhar said she and the

Green River slogan, “The whiskey

why it's there, but we wanted the

without a headache.” Kizer said this

building to look stamped. It’s also a

mural required detailed planning in

conversation piece; it allows people

order to work around the constraints

to ask questions about the history

and we as employees are very proud

of the windows, as well the assistance

from the start of the tour.”

of it,” Ebelhar said. “It's been great

of scaffolding in order to reach the

expanse of the 4-story rickhouse.

River plans to offer a variety of

The first rickhouse that visitors

experiences in 2021, in addition to

see upon arriving now bears the

the current distillery tour and sit and

letter and number combination DSP

sip experience. The distillery also

KY10. This number represents Green

plans to open a brand salon that will

same

River’s distillery license number as

showcase memorabilia dating back to

we just brought back history to

the 10th distillery in Kentucky.

its 1885 origin. Ebelhar said the team

Owensboro.” OL

According

to

Ebelhar,

Green

Green River team are excited about the future of the brand.

“So far we've had great feedback,

to work for O.Z. Tyler, and then help revitalize this brand.

It's something to be proud of

and Owensboro is proud of...It’s the people—different

name—

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

31

REMAINING

Constant Written by G A I L E . K I R K L A N D Photo by M O N I C A S M I T H

As a self-proclaimed planner, and someone who is typically prepared in advance, he did not see this coming. Nonetheless, Owensboro Public School’s newly-appointed superintendent has chosen to take his lemons and make lemonade during this unforeseen COVID pandemic.

Dr. Matthew Constant, an Owensboro

native, credits education as “being in his blood,” since his father was a 32-year veteran chemistry teacher at Apollo.

However, he

claims that his high school math teacher, Sister Barbara Jean Head, actually inspired him to want to be a teacher. “I want to do this; I want to be her someday,” he recalls thinking. “That’s when the bug hit me, and I never looked back from that. I frequently let her know how much impact she has had on me.”

32

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

Having

stepped

enormous

leadership

an

collaborative, trying to get input

as a genuine person who really does

position

from many different people and

care.”

during an unprecedented time, Dr.

sources, fully recognizing that all

Constant points to several God-

of them should be in this business

intendent January 1, 2020, Dr.

moments that led him to this time,

“to serve kids, to do whatever it

Constant took the reins full-time

this opportunity with OPS. Among

takes for them, and so regardless

in February. Then, the pandemic

those are the six years spent

of pandemic or whatever other

hit. How is he handling being a

working alongside Dr. Nick Brake,

extraneous things are going on,

new superintendent in the midst

a

of

I have to close my eyes and ask

of a pandemic? “Personally, it

partnership which allowed him to

myself why did I get into this—

has been a challenge every day.

watch his leadership and to observe

because I wanted to change kids’

I am challenged every day, but

“how he handled crises, related

lives. That mission drives me

I

to people, and worked all kinds of

daily.” Being a middle child who

day by the generosity of people,

networks and systems,” essentially

developed peace-making talents,

the collaborative spirit of this

working as his understudy.

he cites his ability to work with a

community, and the willingness

Seeing himself as a servant-

variety of people, to compromise,

for people to roll up their sleeves

leader, Dr. Constant strives to

and to build consensus as personal

and make decisions we’ve never

only ask of others what he would

strengths. “I think I’m good at the

had to make. I go home every night

be willing to undertake himself.

sensing and feeling parts of the

just mentally drained…just trying

His decision-making approach is

job,” he said. “I hope they see me

to get through like everybody else,”

Batman-and-Robin

into

type

Carol Adkins, Air Hydro Power Inc., Aleris, Atmos, Ray Austin, B.J. Killian Foundation, Mike & Tara Beckwith, Daniel Berckley, Ray & Nelda Best, Dwaine & Ruth Blakeman, Joseph & Marilyn Brookman, Samantha Brown, Allan Burton, Bruce & Charlotte Burton, Caitlin Burton, John David Burton, Alexea Carrico, Jonathan & Joy Carroll, Gary & Shirley Cecil, Amy Chifici, Martha Clark, John & Beth Clements, Mike Coakley, Greg & Terri Coke, Brad Condor, Larry & Rosemary Conder, Sharlene Coulter, Donald & Janice Crask, Daviess County Fiscal Court, Jerry Ray Davis - Jeep Crysler Dodge, Dave Docimo, Tom & Janet Ebelhar, David & Rebecca Eggers, EM Ford & Company, Bill & Barbara Embrey, Alan & Rebbeca Englehart, Envision Contractors LLC, Ashley Evans-Smith, Famous Bistro, Roger & Kathy Farmer, Jeff & Lisa Filbeck, Joe & Winifred Foster, Wayne & Cathy Foster, Time & Donna France, Rachael Frey, Lyzette Galloway, W. Greg Garrard, Max Garvin, Robin Gaynor, Brandon & Emily Gentry, German American Bank, Chris & Jenny Glaser, Mike & Mary Pat Gray, Carl & Molly Greenwell, Larry & Carolyn Hamlet, Pasty Helton, Joseph & Pam Higdon, Hilliard Lyons, Rick & Julie Hobgood, Allen & Forrest Roberts Holbrook, Michael Horn Family Foundation, Mike & Vicki Howard, Sarah Howard, Independence Bank, Jagoe Homes, Gerald Jones, Sylvia Jones, Chris & Stacey Joslin, Dr & Mrs Ben Keeley, Bob & Linda Knight, Mike & Donna Koger, Koger Properties LLC, Rod & Lois Kuegel, Susan Law, Bob & Brenda Lee, Limestone Bank, Chris & Michelle Love, Jewraj G &

Named

am

also

Interim

strengthened

Super-

every

Mohina Kumari, Mahendar & Nalini Maru, Jason Matthews, Jess & Nora Mattingly, Mayfield-Hodges Services, Greg & Leah McCarty, Sherri McGary, Charles & Carolyn McKelvey, Cathie & Jeb Medley, Barry & Christi Midkiff, Michael & Jo Millay, Larry & Jeanie Owen Miller, Diane Moody, Keith & Tricia Moore, Jerry & Sharon Morris, Jesse & Helen Mountjoy, John & Cynthia Mulligan, Jeff & Edna Murphey, Tracy Naylor, Old National Bank, Jeff & Elizabeth Oldham, Wanda Oldham, Jane Pantle, Janet Paris, David & Rhonda Peak, Cathy Pike, Dattatraya & Rita Prajapati, Mary Quader, Radiology Partners, Bill & Kathryn Raymer, Christine Reid, Reid’s Orchard, Kenny Riley, Riney Hancock CPAs, River City Insurance Agency, Robert W. Baird & Company, Harry Roberts, HG & PH Satterwhite, Wendy Schienbein, Terry & Mary Faye, Antoine & Jeremiah Smith-Rouse, Marni Strobel, Ron & Mary Sullivan, Swedish Match, Tim & Debbie Taylor, Tracy & Debra Thacker, Al & Molly Thompson, Ursuline Sisters Of Mount Saint Joseph, US Bank, Leslie Van Meter II Family, Drew & Jeanette Ward, Kelsey Washburn, Carl & Amy Watkins, Jack Wells, Westerfield Electric, Larkin Wetzel, Jerry & Mary Whitaker, Barbara Wilson, Melvin & Margaret Windle

Koger Properties

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

33

he said. Navigating these uncertain

elected in-person learning.

the school population is bused. Social

times, uncharted territory struck hard

“I think the whole community

distancing dictates fewer students on

March 13 when Gov. Andy Beshear

realizes there is risk involved with

a bus—and in classrooms. The health

announced that schools had 48 hours

whatever decision is made. So, in

and safety of staff presents other

to close. In lieu of informing the staff

order for us to mitigate that before the

challenges, as well as the shortage of

via email, Dr. Constant chose video. “I

Governor held us off…we said we have

substitute teachers. Food insecurities

had no idea how that would take off.

to make all sorts of options available.

for children also continue to be an

I got so much good feedback about

If families really feel strongly that it’s

enormous concern. Some of those

that medium of communication that

not healthy to come back in-person…

opting for virtual instruction were

I’ve been doing them now regularly

they can do virtual instruction for the

without Internet access. To address

for the staff—and also I started doing

whole semester. We’ve got that sector

this

them for the parents,” he said.

going, and we have almost 1,000 kids

ordered for almost all K-12 students,

5,000-student

in that.” The remaining students

and 200 wi-fi hotspots were created.

the

largest

have been divided into A-B groups,

However, Dr. Constant recognizes

independent system in Kentucky.

with the A group to attend Mondays

that the quality of education “has

However,

have

and Tuesdays; the B group will attend

the potential to suffer” with strictly

declined 3-4 percent this fall, with

Thursdays and Fridays. Wednesdays

virtual

families choosing to enroll their

are set aside for deep cleaning at the

the age level and grade level of the

students in private schools that are

schools.

student, it makes it more critical,” he

meeting in-person. Twenty percent

said.

of students chose full-time virtual

as

learning; the remaining 80 percent

Transportation for one; 65 percent of

OPS,

with

enrollment,

34

a is

those

numbers

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

What obstacles present themselves they

plan

this

school

year?

issue,

Chromebooks

learning.

“Depending

were

on

On top of all this, the school system

is asking hard questions about racial

injustice issues facing their students.

in-person learning, which began after

you don’t make it so—especially

They have held 10 listening sessions

Fall Break. CARES money has helped

in this pandemic.” He regularly

to allow staff to talk about equity and

the school system order needed

solicits feedback from three peer

have established an equity task force.

PPE in anticipation of reopening.

groups: regional, state and retired

These discussions prompted an OPS

Without

superintendents, which he sees as

board resolution, which addressed

would be upside down, according

equity for one of the most diverse

to Dr. Constant. One million masks

school systems in Kentucky, serving

have been ordered, as well as hand-

30-35 percent minority students.

sanitizer stations for each classroom.

that

help,

their

budget

“The

biggest

challenge

right

now is the decision about in-person learning,” Dr. Constant said. He said

I

have

to

do—

August, Dr. Constant was encouraged.

hashtag,

The good news is that “kids are

look

at

showing up” for their Google Meet.

this as an opportunity. We are being

They can see their teacher in real time

asked, whether we want to or not,

and vice versa. “Students know it’s

to redefine education, and we are

time for school, and they want some

doing that in the Owensboro Public

sort of connection,” Dr. Constant

Schools. I have never seen innovation

said.

that’s

and creativity as strong as it is right

He confers “to a great extent”

assimilate and synthesize all of that,

now,” he said.

with other superintendents. “People

knowing that whatever decision you

students—and

told me when I got the job that it

make, a sector of the population is

teachers—and parents are hungry for

can be a very lonely position, unless

not going to be happy,” he said. OL

“One

of

challenged we

are

the our

even

things staff

using

#OPSopportunity—is

Yet,

many

a to

On their first official school day in

indispensable.

that definite opinions exist on all sides of the issue, which matter. Yet, he said he must factor in what the health and safety data say. “Weighing all of that data and then talking with our board of education and advising them on what I would recommend, been

challenging.

Just

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

to

35

36

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

37

GAV I N W I M S AT T

HUMBLE IN THE SPOTLIGHT Written by S T E V E N W I L S O N

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

38

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

H

igh school sports in Kentucky have a long and storied history. And without a professional team to call our own, fans swear their

allegiances to blue or red, flock to football fields on Friday night (pre-COVID), and pack high school gyms during the winter. Athletes like Wes Unseld, Tim Couch and Owensboro’s own Rex Chapman are known and revered throughout Kentucky as proud representatives of our state. Yet even with the multitude of gifted athletes that suit up for their high school teams each year, it’s been some time since the Commonwealth produced a truly transcendent talent. And now the next one may be in our own back yard.

But you wouldn’t know it simply by speaking with

OHS Junior quarterback Gavin Wimsatt. There’s a popular sports adage that says, “Let your game do the talking” – and Wimsatt does just that.

Part of what makes Wimsatt special as a player are

both his game and his frame – which wreak havoc on opposing defenses, and have college coaches more than eager to recruit him. The quarterback position has evolved significantly over the years, from the introduction of the forward pass, to standing patiently in the pocket, to today’s signal callers, the best of which rely not only on their arms, but also their athleticism to push their teams down the field. Quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson have become the gold standard, and when it comes to style of play and athletic ability, Wimsatt fits the mold.

During his sophomore campaign, his first season as

starting quarterback, Wimsatt amassed eye-popping statistics of 2,792 pass yards, 31 passing touchdowns, 564 rushing yards, and 12 rushing touchdowns. And through his first 6 games of this season, he’s thrown for 1,143 yards and 12 touchdowns, and picked up another 4 touchdowns on the ground. But even more impressive than his on-field accomplishments may be his downto-earth attitude.

Amidst a maelstrom of recruiting

activity, Wimsatt remains calm.

I interviewed Wimsatt on a Thursday night, the day

prior to their clash with cross-town rival, Owensboro Catholic. Anyone who knows high school football in Owensboro knows that these contests are always intense, and that there’s no love lost when these squads meet.

But when asked about his preparation for a big game against a city-county opponent, Wimsatt didn’t go the N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

39

way of talking trash or boasting

only on your game. I just try to

about his own abilities. Instead,

keep my head up and motivate

he recounted his routine of a

everybody,” Wimsatt said.

good breakfast, watching film to

scout the opponent and correct

labor can be seen not only

his

in his team’s record and his

mistakes,

and

staying

focused on the game that night.

impressive

On the following night, as it

but also in a series of videos he

does most nights, that steady

put together to showcase his

routine and humble attitude

talents to college coaches. With

paid off to the tune of a 28-14

19 scholarship offers, including

victory that saw Wimsatt throw for a season-high 305 yards and three touchdowns.

When he’s not on the field,

Wimsatt says he spends time with his two older brothers, Rashai and Darrion, who inspired him to start playing football at age 5.

And, as is evident from his stat sheet, while Wimsatt is certainly not your average athlete, he comes across in conversation as a regular teenager, with his summer spent swimming, fishing and cooking with friends and teammates.

But he also spent time this

summer

honing

his

game.

The challenges of COVID-19 made both his training and his recruitment look different than they might in any other year, but they certainly haven’t slowed down

Wimsatt’s

momentum.

In addition to working with

40

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

The fruits of his summer

Kentucky,

individual

Louisville,

stats,

Notre

Dame and Michigan, among many other top-tier programs, Wimsatt

definitely

got

their

attention.

So in addition to watching

film, going to practice, playing on

Friday

nights,

going

to

class, and finding time to spend with his friends and family, Gavin also stays busy talking to college football coaches as they pitch the gifted recruit on their respective schools. Those coaches are limited, depending on the time of year, to how they can communicate with football prospects, either through calls, text or social media. But it only takes a quick look through Wimsatt’s Twitter feed to see how much attention the nation’s top programs are focusing on the Owensboro junior.

a quarterback trainer on his

Wimsatt has yet to decide

passing skills, as well as his

where he’ll be playing college

speed and agility, Wimsatt also

football in 2022. But one thing

emphasized the work he put

is clear: not only will his coaches

in to stay mentally focused.

at the next level have a star

For

aspect,

quarterback, they’ll also have a

along with leadership, is the

terrific teammate, and a humble

most important attribute of a

young man who, despite all his

quarterback. “The whole team

success thus far, still strives to

follows you, and it can’t be based

get better every day. OL

Wimsatt,

that

GATHERING: A NEW PLACE TO PARTY p. 42

TRAVEL : QUARANTINE CAMPING p. 46

SENIOR LIVING: FINDING CREATIVE WAYS TO GET TOGETHER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON p. 50

→

Photo by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

LIFESTYLE

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

41

Lifestyle G A T H E R I N G THE PARTY SPACE PL ACE

A New Place to Party Written by L A U R A M U R P H Y

42

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

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

W

sisters

Considering that many locals

plans that were being set into

Allyson Sanders and

search for a place to have a birthday

motion. If anything, the group

Tina

were

party or throw a baby shower, the

became more determined to see

just college students, they already

trio believed they finally found

their idea come to life.

had big dreams. While students at

the

Kentucky Wesleyan College, they

providing Owensboro the space to

motivated and determined and

often brainstormed business ideas

hold private events.

understand what it’s like to move

for the future. Years later, as they

“We’ve grown up here. We have

forward no matter what, like to

see their hard work coming to

kids, we have family—we know

see what we can do. We have the

fruition, they say they definitely

what it’s like to look for a place to

entrepreneur spirit,” Sanders said.

saw it coming.

have a party. We wanted to create a

husband

place a little more upscale. People

establishment built with the goal

Marshall, and I are a team. We were

are looking for a good space at

to make events more special than

always a team, even in college. We

a good price without the clutter

just a photo opportunity, finally

wanted to secure our own wealth,

of restaurant noise or traffic,”

opened its doors in September.

be a bigger part of the community,

Forrest said.

“My

hen

sister,

twin Forrest

my

perfect

business

venture,

“People

Party

like

us,

Space

who

Place,

are

an

“We had a soft opening for

and decide what

family

our future would

keeping

look like,” Sanders

friendly. We have been

said.

booking small events

After

the

twins

and

friends,

it

COVID-

ever since,” Sanders

earned

said.

the same college

Unique

scholarship,

of Party Space Place

they

aspects

continued to run

include

offering

ideas

past

each

local

pickups

other

as

they

or the ability to hire

decide

a “ghost host.” This

tried

to

which to

direction

take

party

optional

their

add-on

provides an errand-

lives, stating that

running service, such

entrepreneurship was always the

main desire.

may

“We started to ask: ‘What is

ideal, but the family saw it as

useful in Owensboro?’ We had so

confirmation that private spaces

in the background to help with

many big ideas, so many dreams-

were becoming more valuable than

pickups as long as it’s within city

it’s

ever.

limits. They can greet your guests,

dream that challenged us. Tina

“We were making calls, getting

help with taking down and setting

and Marshall keep me grounded.

ideas to paper, and gaining steam,

up, basically a behind-the-scenes

They’d say: “Let’s be realistic; you

and then we got hit with COVID,”

helper,” Sanders said. “Our place

aren’t going to start a boutique on

Sanders said.

is private. We want you to feel like

Mars,” Sanders said.

you’re at home.”

putting

arms

around

the

Amid the pandemic, the timing have

seemed

less

than

The setbacks did not stop the

as picking up balloons, the cake, or other party supplies.

“The ‘ghost host’ is someone

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

43

Lifestyle G A T H E R I N G

Co-owner Marshall Sanders

business, too. Getting paid to

to help celebrate a monumental

says his favorite part of the new

work with something she truly

moment. After this year, people

business is the family atmosphere

enjoys is just an added bonus.

are starting to realize that every

and the involvement of each of

minute matters,” Sanders said.

his family members.

and being with family while I’m

Future

working.

administrative

expanding to other unique spaces,

degree. When you come through

work like filing papers, and I help

offering additional services to

the doors, you feel like you are

with odds and ends around the

help with party preparation, and

home and not away. We knew

building,” Analea said.

continuing to grow, eventually

eventually we would open up a

As far as what fuels their

hiring staff from outside of the

business. We had talked about it

passion for this new business

family. They want to stay a micro

in the past. The sisters actually

venture, the family says they

venue, however, to preserve the

kickstarted everything to make

love being able to provide the

private and personal feel.

this happen,” Marshall said.

community with a unique and

Sanders’ two daughters are

affordable way to throw a party.

now. We want this to go beyond

invested in the business, as well.

They are committed to offering a

just being a party,” Sanders said.

Seventeen-year-old Amari takes

safe and healthy solution to party

For more information visit

care of social media, photos,

needs, even in the midst of the

www.thepartyspaceplace.com

and other creative aspects of

current guidelines.

or follow them on Instagram,

the

Facebook,

“Everyone is involved to a

business.

Fourteen-year-

old Analea likes to help with the

44

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

“I like that I’m involved, I

do

“In the past, parties were just

a photo opportunity, but we want

plans

include

“Private means so much more

@tpspofficial. OL

and

Twitter

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

45

Lifestyle T R A V E L

QUARANTINE CAMPING

Local families are finding a new way to safely get away Written by L A U R A M U R P H Y

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

46

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

A

s stay at home orders lifted and places

began to open back up, many RV

as family. We work very hard to offer the total

manufacturers saw such a spike in interest

experience for our customers: from the early stages

that they were unable to keep up. Rental spaces have

of shopping all the way to a full service department

also filled quickly, with some families choosing a

for when you need repairs. We want full disclosure

campground over a more traditional vacation, such

and don’t have hidden fees as so many dealers do,”

as renting a beach house or taking a cruise.

Overall said.

2020 has looked different for those who enjoy

“Here at Owensboro RV, we treat our customers

One Owensboro family, the Rittmeyers, bought

travelling and searching for the perfect destination.

their first camper last month. Valerie Rittmeyer says

According to Kampgrounds of America (KOA), 34%

the convenience of travelling in-state was alluring,

of campers believe road trips are the safest form of

as well as the ability to avoid highly-traveled hotel

travel following the COVID guidelines.

spaces.

Adam Overall, General Manager of Owensboro

“I grew up camping. My dad died when I was 17,

RV says they have also seen an increase in RV sales

and I had already traveled to over 30 states with him.

this year. Due to the COVID pandemic, more people

When he passed away, we sold the camper. I wanted

are social distancing and using RVs as a means to

my kids to experience that. We thought, ‘what if our

do that. They started to see the uptick in traffic

kids are too old to enjoy this’? Then we realized this

in March of this year, and it is still going strong.

is actually the perfect time to go,” Rittmeyer said.

Overall takes pride in being the only RV dealer in

Owensboro.

camper giveaway. When they didn’t win, they

The family was in the running for the WBKR

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

47

Lifestyle T R A V E L Before

After realized they were serious about

at the campsite, we are all there

completely flipped it to make it

going ahead and purchasing an RV.

at the same place spending time

a more personal space for their

The only problem - one that many

together,” Rittmeyer said.

family of five. What Kami and Paul

face this year - was finding one for

envisioned as a quick makeover

sale.

of staying in an RV, Rittmeyer said

demanded much more attention.

“Around the 4th of July is when

she loves returning to her roots,

we started looking. There’s very few

helping her kids experience some

year. Paul had been looking for one

used ones because of COVID; they

of the same things she did when her

literally daily on the marketplace

can’t keep them in. We were blessed

dad used to take off three weeks at

because they were going so fast

to find someone who decided

a time, travelling to rodeos or to the

as everyone was buying them. He

campers are not for them, and sold

beach.

finally found one that was a good

it to us.” Rittmeyer said.

Although

48

Apart from the getaway aspect

the

just

wanted

to

create

deal, and we thought it did not have

was

memories. The initial investment

a lot of repairs,” Shearn said.

originally searching for something

may be a little more costly but

smaller, they decided to invest in

you don’t have to go very far, and

wanted to remodel the camper, they

something a bit larger so that down

it’s not very expensive to stay at a

did not realize until they got further

the road their future grandkids can

campground. Another perk is being

into the project that it would need

travel with them, as well.

able to take our dogs, plus it’s really

significant repairs.

“I love that all my children will

peaceful. We didn’t go on a vacation

be in one place. We get to be outside

this year, so this is like a mini-

and we thought it needed a few soft

together

vacation,” Rittmeyer said.

spots on the floor fixed. He started

around

family

“I

“We bought it in June of this

the

campfire

Although the couple knew they

“We knew we wanted to flip it,

making s’mores, and then are

Another

the

to get in there working on it, and it

together in close quarters, which

Shearns, not only purchased a

needed a lot more than we imagined.

is actually really fun. Once you are

camper this summer, but they

It needed a lot of structural work;

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

local

family,

the floor was rotted away,” Shearn

entire middle area. He added a small

they are pleased with the results,

said.

bunk in one of the bedrooms,”

especially since they got a really

Shearn said.

good deal on their purchase.

With several leaks and numerous

opportunities

for

upgrades,

camper

the

cosmetic would

For the cosmetic side of the remodel,

they

added

shelves,

“Now that COVID is going on,

I’m

not

comfortable

traveling,

require a full-time commitment to

home-style decorations, painted

complete the project. Shearn said

and upholstered pieces. Once the big

her husband got right to the job,

renovations were complete, Shearn

often working long hours at a time.

said she could start decorating.

Philpot to sit by the lake,” Shearn

said.

“I would go out there and help

“I got on blogs and Pinterest

but we can take that and can go anywhere - even to our farm in

him. But he worked on it day and

to read stories to get ideas of what

night. He’s a pastor, so he had a lot

works and what didn’t work. For

it, we went to Rough River; it’s just

of time on his hands, and it gave

example, some wallpapers work

like a house. We have a kitchen and

him something to do, sometimes

better than others, which is why

working until midnight,” Shearn

I used a pull and stick. I shopped

a hot shower. I’d love to get out

said.

around, getting stuff here and

there,” Shearn said. “I tried to get

It didn’t take long to realize that

the work would be substantial.

the best deal.”

Although

“He

pretty

much

redid

the

camper

“The only time we’ve ever taken

more,” Shearn said.

With three young children who

still need a place to nap and rest throughout the day, the Shearns

everything structurally. He ripped

renovations required more time

were thankful to have a little

out a middle closet and basically the

than the couple initially expected,

getaway. OL

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

49

Lifestyle S E N I O R

LIVING

Finding Creative ways to Get Together this Holiday Season Written by D A N A P E V E L E R

A

s a military family, holidays

Let’s start with the gatherings

so much as the sniffles, be smart.

have been tricky on occasion.

– who says we celebrate all at once?

This is the year to forego washing

We’ve learned to celebrate

Mix it up a bit and host an open house

dishes, too!

creatively

weren’t

where loved ones can drop in and

disposable dinnerware and utensils,

Some years we hosted,

out! If you want to have everyone

and make it easier on everyone!

some years we traveled, and some

together, choose the largest, most

One family I know is sharing

years were spent with just us at

well-ventilated

have

recipes, then on the holiday, holding

home. If you’re like me, this year,

access to. If your garage is conducive,

a video meeting call to share a meal

you’re

possible.

when

wondering

visits

Pick up some festive

how

to

keep

space

you

consider sprucing that space up

together. If this is intimidating, but

everyone safe, stay safe yourself, and

for your family.

Maybe celebrate

sounds like a fun idea, reach out to

still feel some sense of tradition and

over a few days, or even a whole

someone who can help you. Most all

connection. We can do this!

month, visiting with everyone, but

our smart phones have the capability

seniors

in smaller groups. If you do plan to

to do this, even if you don’t have

what concerned them most about

gather together, do your best to avoid

access to the internet or computer.

the holidays, each expressed fear

high-contact areas in the couple of

Consider a video or conference call,

they wouldn’t see their children or

weeks prior, just to play it as safely as

and if you have a group together,

grandchildren.

When

I

asked

some

Another thread of

possible.

consider

concern was financial. With so many

speaker, and calling loved ones who

struggling, how do you gift without

designate one or two people to serve

couldn’t make it.

creating more stress for everyone?

the food, rather than buffet-style.

You can even turn recipes into

Together, we came up with some

If you’re the cook, wash your hands

gifts by writing them down in your

pretty creative solutions!

frequently, of course, and if you have

hand, and mailing them! If there’s

50

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

If you’re gathering with family,

placing

the

phone

on

still

can…since

my

girls

you can copy and share with your

a family story, picture, or tradition

You

you can include, all the better!

were very small, we’ve had the

loved ones? What a treasure!

Speaking of mail – write letters,

tradition of watching the movie

As

or send cards. My cousin recently

“Hocus Pocus” together during

through our stories and by sharing

mailed me a card with a precious

the Halloween season.

Although

experiences. Why not share a story

note and a postcard size piece of

we’re all now hundreds of miles

about yourself, maybe how you and

her artwork.

humans,

we

connect

apart, we designate a couple hours

your spouse met, what school was

smile each time I pass it.

one evening, and watch it together

like for you, or about an event in

I spoke with someone who

while on a group call!

your life that made a big impact?

is preparing a whole meal and

Now, let’s talk gifts. This year

You can write it down, or even have

placing it in to-go containers, then

has been stressful enough without

someone record you to share with

having loved ones drive by to pick

the added financial burden. Gifts

your loved ones.

up the meals. With each pickup,

needn’t be elaborate or expensive.

the friends and family are leaving

One family has all done their

another connect with someone

special treats for the host.

individual DNA in years past, so

they care about … offer.

You can do family parades!

instead of gifts, to celebrate their

friends what their plans are and

Deck out your cars and do a drive-

heritage and learn more about it,

brainstorm together.

by to your senior family members!

each adult member will be assigned

have mastered staying connected

How about bringing back caroling

a DNA region to research, then

from a distance.

as you do it? As a family, you can

share a tradition or special dish

They’ll

safely stay outside your seniors’

that is specific to that region. Talk

included them, and getting them

home and sing with them. This is

about your heritage! You may find

involved in the planning ensures

a way to bring some much-needed

there are many traditions your

they participate!

cheer to not only your loved ones,

parents and grandparents had that

I know these times are uncertain,

but those nearby, as well.

you weren’t aware of! It is a way

particularly for our seniors. I think

Family games? Us too! There

to connect, possibly rekindle old

it’s fair to say we’re all a little sad,

are platforms out there that can

traditions, and maybe even start

and some are deeply wounded by

host family game time while you

some new ones!

the sacrifices and losses of 2020.

use your smart phone to select

Recently, my great uncle gifted

Now, more than ever, we appreciate

answers as you play against one

my grandfather with a picture of

our families and friendships. Let’s

another. You can play traditional

their own grandfather. No one in

show each other. Let’s say, “I love

dice games, and even board games

our family knew he had the picture,

you,” whether we’re 6 feet apart,

together, too, through FaceTime,

and now we all have copies of the

on the phone, looking at a computer

or Skype and other forms of

man who came from Ireland to start

screen, or sending a letter, because

technology.

our family in the United States! Do

it isn’t about the food or the gifts –

you have any new or old pictures

it’s about sharing our hearts.

I’ve framed it, and

Do you watch movies together?

If you’re someone who can help Ask your Our youth

Engage them!

appreciate

that

you

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

51

Lifestyle H E A L T H

OWENSBORO HEALTH OFFERS SOLUTIONS FOR DIABETES

loss helps.”

She

suggests

making

healthier

carbohydrate choices and eating smaller portions, as well as switching to fat-free or low-fat dairy and moderate portions of lean meats. “It’s a lifestyle change,” she said. “We’re seeing kids with type 2 diabetes because of eating junk and sugary drinks.”

But there’s hope—and help—for

those ready to make a change. Cecil said the Owensboro Health Healthpark offers several programs to aid in lifestyle changes. They have six Diabetes Care and Education Specialists that are either nurses or dietitians with additional diabetic-specific training, who can see patients. These specialists can educate individuals about their risks and develop a game plan to tackle high blood sugar.

All they need is a referral from their primary care provider.

The

Healthpark

also

offers

the

Exercise is Medicine program, an 8-week exercise plan to get those with diabetes risk-factors moving. For those wanting to focus on their food choices as well, the LifeSteps Weight Management class

N

can help. They even offer a nationally-

Diabetes

up. Shelby Shelby, Owensboro Health

Month, a time when organizations

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, said

across the country team up to

they often see folks skipping doses or

bring attention to diabetes—a serious

cutting back on their insulin due to

condition that causes higher than normal

inability to buy enough. The CDC found

blood sugar levels. In Kentucky, it’s

that in 2017 and 2018, nearly 18% of

estimated that 475,000 (or 1 in 7 people)

working-age

have been diagnosed with diabetes and

rationed their insulin by taking smaller

certified

another 158,000 people may have it but

doses, waiting to fill prescriptions, or

than 30 years of experience in her field.

not know.

skipping their insulin altogether.

There are many benefits to seeing an

ovember

is

National

adults

with

diabetes

recognized Diabetes Prevention Program and a diabetes support group that met regularly before COVID-19 and will resume when possible.

Owensboro

Health

recently

welcomed Dr. Betty Villafuerte, a boardendocrinologist

with

more

While some risk-factors for diabetes

endocrinologist when you have diabetes.

the condition can cause nerve damage,

are beyond control, like age, ethnicity and

These specialists can help you gain

problems with your eyes, neuropathy,

family history, there are prevention steps

control over the disease so that you

heart

and

you can take if you think you may be at

maintain your health and develop a

many more issues. Beyond the health

risk. According to Beth Cecil, Owensboro

management plan that works for you.

implications, the disease can be very

Health Manager of Community Wellness,

Your primary care provider may refer you

expensive. For those with diabetes,

there are three main things to focus on.

to an endocrinologist if you’re having

healthcare costs are more than two

“Look at your eating habits and change

times greater than for those without. On

them if they’re not ideal, lose weight if

complications or trouble managing your

average, they spend more on hospital

you’re not at a healthy BMI and increase

stays, doctor visits and medicine.

your daily physical activity level,” She

52

Those familiar with diabetes know

disease,

Treating

kidney

diabetes

disease

can

also

add

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

said. “Even a 5-to-10-percent weight

diabetes.

ASK YOUR PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER FOR A REFERRAL OR CALL 270-270-688-4804.

SPONSORED CONTENT

OWENSBORO HEALTH DIABETES RESOURCES DR. BETTY VILLAFUERTE Owensboro Health Diabetes & Endocrinology Breckenridge Medical Building 1000 Breckenridge St., Suite 200 Owensboro, KY 42303 Ask your primary care provider for a referral if you’re interested in an appointment with Dr. Villafuerte, or call 270-688-3500 for more information.

DIABETES CARE AND EDUCATION SPECIALISTS

EXERCISE IS MEDICINE If you have a documented health risk that would benefit from physical activity, take advantage of Exercise is Medicine — an innovative, eight-week program at Owensboro Health’s Healthpark. Participants get a custom work out plan based on their needs.

LIFESTEPS WEIGHT MANAGEMENT Each LifeSteps participant develops a personalized eating and physical activity plan over the program’s 14 weeks, which incorporates small changes that add up to big changes for a lifetime!

DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM The Diabetes Prevention Program is a year-long series of classes geared toward teaching participants simple changes to lower their risk of developing diabetes while SHELBY SHELBY LD, MS, RDN

MELISSA GAITHER CDCES, LD, MLDE, RDN

GAYLA WHITEHOUSE CDCES, MLDE, RN

promoting healthy weight loss. The course covers topics such as finding healthy foods you enjoy, tracking your food intake, physical activity, eating well away from home, coping with triggers, staying motivated, stress management, and much more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PROGRAMS AND

GUSCILLA (GUS) JOHNSON CDCES, RN

BECKI BARR CDCES, MLDE, RN

EDUCATION AT THE HEALTHPARK, EMAIL BETH CECIL AT BETH.CECIL@OWENSBOROHEALTH.ORG OR CALL 270-688-4804.

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

53

54

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

SPONSORED CONTENT

W H AT I S T H E B E S T W AY T O W H I T E N M Y TEETH? Safe tooth whitening and/or bleaching is not a process that is accomplished by some fancy looking light, battery powered light made in China with questionable over the counter whitening gel you wear in a one size fits all tray for 20 minutes a day. In fact, whitening this way can actually cause a lot of harm to your mouth as the material is allowed on the gum tissue where it can cause a chemical burn. Additionally, light activation of whitening gels isn’t needed as the studies show it has little to no effect other than allowing the user to take an interesting “selfie.”

D O E S DENT IST RY CON FU SE YOU? YO U ’R E NOT ALON E .

Your Common Dental Questions Answered With Dr. Joshua Stamper At Bluegrass Dental

Professional whitening involves using an FDA approved and regulated chemical which breaks down colors and actually bleaches or lightens the color of the teeth, which removes both surface stains and lightens the color of the tooth. This material is expressed into a custom fabricated tray that fits only your teeth and allows the material to stay on the teeth, where it belongs. This is the process we use at Bluegrass Dental, and we provide this as a free service to reward all our patients who value their oral health.

A R E M Y S I LV E R F I L L I N G S B A D F O R M Y H E A LT H ?

A: No, silver fillings are not harmful to your systemic health. However, if the silver mercury filling is large and poorly done, they have a tendency to break down and leak allowing new bacteria into the tooth, or even cause the natural tooth to fracture. In this case, usually only a crown will fix this. Be weary of any dentist that tells you your silver fillings need to be replaced because they are bad for you. I always take pictures of these teeth and show my patients so they can see what I see, in order for them to make an informed decision and agree with the condition I am describing to them. If you do not like the look of your silver fillings, they absolutely can be swapped out for tooth colored fillings, if that is your choice.

W H AT I S A V E N E E R / S M I L E M A K E O V E R ?

A veneer is a thin porcelain covering that is bonded to the front of a tooth in order to correct dental issues including worn tooth enamel, uneven tooth alignment or spacing, tooth discoloration, and chips or cracks. In order to do so, a small portion of the tooth’s enamel is removed to allow the veneer to fit and cover the tooth properly. Not all veneers are made the same. During a smile make-over, the dentist must take into account your bite, lip support, and facial esthetics in order to determine the best size, shape, and color of your new smile.

From here, your dentist needs to communicate with a qualified laboratory for the design and fabrication of your new smile- a step most dentists will skip out on. At Bluegrass Dental, Smile design and makeover is one of our favorite procedures!

Have a question? D R . J O S H U A S T A M P E R W I L L P E R S O N A L L Y R E S P O N D T O Q U E S T I O N S S E N T T O O F F I C E @ B L U E G R A S S D E N T I S T . C O M N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

55

56

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

RECIPE: GINGERBREAD PANCAKES p. 58

WHAT WE’RE EATING NOW: COFFEE SHOPS p. 59

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: COLBY’S p. 60

→

Photo by

JAMIE ALEXANDER

F L AVO R

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

57

Flavor R E C I P E

Gingerbread Pancakes Recipe and photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R

T

hese holiday pancakes are a great way to warm up a chilly winter day! Not only do they taste great, they fill the entire house with the smell of holiday spices. Try topping them with cinnamon syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream or crushed nuts to take them to the next level. It’ll be a breakfast treat that the whole family will want you to repeat each year!

DRY INGREDIENTS:

WET INGREDIENTS:

1 cup flour

3/4 cup buttermilk

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 large egg

2 tbsp sugar

3 tbsp unsulphured molasses

2 tsp cinnamon 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda

1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp ground ginger 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp ground cloves 1/4 tsp salt

58

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients together until

combined. In a separate bowl, mix all wet ingredients together until combined. Pour wet mixture into dry mixture and stir until combined, but not over-mixed. Let the batter sit for 3-5 minutes so it begins to rise a bit.

2. While the batter is rising, preheat a skillet or riddle with low/ medium heat, and spray generously with cooking oil/spray.

3. Scoop around 1/3 cup of batter onto the surface and allow

it to cook until the sides start to brown and the pancakes get small bubbles. Be careful, they can burn quick! Once one side has cooked, flip to the other side. Cook the pancakes until golden brown. Top with your favorite toppings! OL

What we’re eating now A lot of us drink coffee all year round, but when the temperatures start getting cooler, a warm cup sounds even more inviting. If you’re in the mood for a hot drink or a delicious bakery treat, you’ll find what you’re looking for at these local establishments.

The Cottage Farm Stand & Baking Co.

The Créme Coffeehouse

Niko’s Bakery and Café

Located at 6869 State Route 56, this family-run operation offers delicious coffee, a wide variety of muffins and cookies, plus hot breakfast sandwiches. Whether you’re a traditional blueberry muffin fan, or you want to get more adventurous with a PB&J muffin, the Cottage doesn’t disappoint.

A downtown staple, the Crème is the perfect spot to grab a cappuccino and a homemade dessert on a chilly fall day. On weekends, visitors can come by at night to listen to some of their favorite local musicians, and there’s even an AirBnB that sits above the shop.

A newer addition with a familiar name, Niko’s Bakery welcomes guests with an assortment of European-style pastries and desserts. Their fall-centric offerings include a Pumpkin Pie Latte, or, for something a little out of the ordinary, try their Nutella Latte.

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

59

Flavor R E S T A U R A N T

SPOTLIGHT

COLBY’S FINE FOODS AND SPIRITS

Standing the Test of Time Written by J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K

O

vercoming nothing

barriers new

downtown

for

is the

establishment

now navigating through a global pandemic. The restaurant thrived for decades when the riverfront was but a map dot, parking was scarce, and many of their neighboring

businesses

were

closing their doors or moving shop.

There was once a time that

the iconic restaurant was the destination.

The

reemergence

of the area has transformed downtown into the destination, with Smother’s Park being a focal point, and Colby’s a likely stop for

Photo by

MONICA SMITH

restaurants - he’s been in the

goal is to be as authentic to the

industry his entire life,” said the

brand as possible, as well as

younger

pursuing excellence,” he said.

MacQuarrie.

“Colby’s the

“We don’t want to be stagnant, so

leadership can weather social,

it’s our goal to create new menu

and lifetime owners Colby and

economic, and cultural storms.”

items that align with the original

Carole MacQuarrie attribute that

menu.”

to their authenticity and many

with Malcolm and Sally Bryant

loyal customers. Their son, Collin,

in 1987 to create the original

continue to pride themselves on

now co-manages Colby’s Deli,

restaurant before opening Colby’s

are steak, seafood, Cajun food,

which opened in the Corporate

Deli in 1992. The original Colby’s

and house-made desserts. They

Center just a block away in 1992.

menu is slightly different from

paired that authentic product

the current one, but the flavors

with extraordinary hospitality,

doing - he knows what it takes

remain consistent.

and

when

building into the restaurant that

drinks and dinner.

60

Either way, business is good,

“My dad knows what he’s it

comes

to

running

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

has

succeeded

because

Colby and Carole partnered

“The goal is excellence - the

Those initial staples that they

converted

a

century-old

Colby MacQuarrie and Molly MacQuarrie Phillips // Photo by ERIC BIVENS

customers visit today.

The

building

at

204

West

Third Street served as Weir’s Drug Store for several years, and the MacQuarries were adamant about maintaining the original architectural

elements.

The

original brick walls and classic decor accomplishes their overall goal of balancing the modern with the classic.

Consistency

can

also

be

found within the staff at both the restaurant and the deli, both of which boast employees with over 20 years of service. There is a relational element present that transcends the walls of the two establishments.

→

“Mary Goetz has been with

the

deli

for

22

years,”

said

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

61

Left: Nikki Anderson, Collin MacQuarrie and Mary Goetz.

Below: Michael Woods prepares salads in Colby’s kitchen.

Photos by

ERIC BIVENS

MacQuarrie. “When you look at both businesses and see that these individuals have been there for a long time, you know customers have been there for a long time. You want to maintain consistency. When you create a culture that fosters that kind of result, you know you’re doing something right.”

As protocol continues to change,

the restaurant remains steadfast in their efforts to keep their doors open in whatever capacity that might be.

“This is a culmination of many

efforts,” said MacQuarrie. “We have a lot of loyal customers. They are very supportive and helpful during difficult times.”

The restaurant is presently operating from

11a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, while the deli is open from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. every weekday. More information is available at colbysfinefoodandspirits.com, or by searching Colby’s Deli and Cafe on Facebook. OL

62

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

63

64

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

65

SHOP LOCAL SECTION

Shopping from small businesses not only gives you unique gift options, but it helps support our local families, like this one. Jackie Smith owns a handmade jewelry business.

Shop online at jackiebluehandmade.com.

SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Christmas is closer than you think! And while our gatherings may look a little different this year, that doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate with gifts for the people that mean the most to us. And what better way to show that you care by giving a gift you can’t get anywhere else?

That’s exactly what you’ll find from the stores and restaurants featured in this section. Whether it’s clothing or food, or something handmade, no one will be disappointed unwrapping a gift from these hometown businesses.

Plus, you get the satisfaction of supporting one (or more) of Owensboro’s own!

And for those who’ve moved away, and are still looking for a taste of home, there’s no better gift than a subscription to Owensboro Living.

66

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

1

GREEN RIVER DISTILLING CO.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

10 DISTILLERY RD

OWENSBORO, KY 42301

How did you get your idea or concept for the business?

There is a rich and storied history of whiskey distilling in Owensboro. We wanted to honor that tradition by reviving the Green River Distilling Co. at its original home, 10 Distillery Rd.

What is unique about your business?

The distillery was founded by J.W. McCulloch, who began making whiskey in 1885. The original Green River became synonymous with quality and known for producing some of the finest bourbon in Kentucky. Today, under the leadership of 3rd generation Master Distiller Jacob Call we continue that tradition of making the finest quality whiskey available.

What does it mean to you/ what’s the best part of having your business in Owensboro?

Being part of the long distilling tradition of Owensboro and making whiskey where the conditions are just right. Limestone filtered water, locally grown corn and extreme temperatures that allow the whiskey to move in and out of the charred wood while aging in the barrel.

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

Making history takes time.

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

67

Shop Local

2

OLD HICKORY BAR-B-QUE 338 WASHINGTON AVE // OWENSBORO, KY 42301

What is unique about your business?

What’s the best part of having your business in Owensboro?

We’ve been in business for 102 years and owned by the same family. Our recipes haven’t changed, though we have added some new items over the years. We’ve used the same cooking process the entire time.

Owensboro is the the best because it’s the BBQ capitol of the world. There’s no place better to be. The atmosphere and the people are great! There’s no better place to call home.

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

1) Be willing to sacrifice a great deal. You are at work when others are not. You must be willing to serve others in many different ways. There’s no success without sacrifice. 2) You must have a lot of patience. Success is not always immediately seen. It takes time. 3) Learn some psychology. Not all people are the same. You have to learn what brings the best out of them. 4) Again, be willing to work. You can’t just sit back and watch others do everything. You have to be willing to do it all, as well.

Being hands-on is a must.

3

HILL VIEW FARMS MARKET 5024 LEE RUDY RD // OWENSBORO, KY 42301

What is unique about your business?

We are one of the only places in Owensboro that sells direct to consumer meats. Also, a lot of people don't realize all the other food and miscellaneous items we carry in our store, too. We are much more than a meat store.

68

What's the best part of having your business in Owensboro?

Being able to provide Owensboro with something unique is awesome. I feel like I am helping bridge a gap between the producer and the consumer when it comes to meat options. Owensboro is very supportive of its small businesses and that is something that helps make us a great place to live and to work.

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

Don't hesitate to reach out to other small businesses, whether that be here in Owensboro or elsewhere. We are all in the same boat and lots of times we can help you jump a couple of the hurdles we may have encountered along our way.

You never know when you may need that friend in another business.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2

3

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

69

Shop Local

4

STUDIO SLANT

624 EMORY DR // OWENSBORO, KY 42301

How did you get your idea or concept for your business?

Studio Slant started as an art gallery and handmade gift store. Over the years, we have listened to our customers and used our unique style and eye for everything from the traditional to the quirky to curate what is now the cutest little gift store around.

What is unique about your business?

We have the power of WOW! Gifting is an art

form, and we celebrate in style from the items we offer to our perfected gift wrapping. We have gifts for all occasions! Our wedding registry offers brides the perfect opportunity to set their table with all of their favorite brands, and begin to fill their houses with memories.

With tabletop, home decor, wallpaper, fabric, candles and more, each section of our store is designed to fit each moment of your lifestyle.

What’s the best part of having your business in Owensboro?

Everyone who works here was born and raised in this town. We chose to stay here and become entrepreneurs, artists, and gift-wrapping phenoms because we love it here. It’s an honor to celebrate all the lifetime moments of our town, in our town and with the people of our town.

5

GENE’S HEALTH FOOD

1738 MOSELEY ST // OWENSBORO, KY 42303

How did you get your idea or concept for the business?

We’re actually a family business that has been serving Owensboro since 1980, and look forward to serving here forever.

What is unique about your business?

We embody all that the words health food store imply. We have freshly prepared organic food, healthy lifestyle products like green cleaning products and fancy reusable drinking vessels.

A mostly organic grocery section with an emphasis on making it easy to eat in specific styles be it AIP, Keto diet, allergen friendly, vegetarian etc. And our vitamins we selected for our shelves are Good Manufacturing Process certified. Which essentially means the FDA comes in and inspects their facilities often to ensure what’s on the label is in the container.

What’s the best part of having your business in Owensboro?

Being a small business in a community like Owensboro is being a part of a very important support network for the town. Supporting small local business means we can also support small local business, which means they can etc, etc. I think in all we go home everyday knowing that we did the best we knew how for our friends and neighbors both in what we provide and how we provide it.

6

ADORN BOUTIQUE

113 E 18TH ST, // OWENSBORO, KY 42303

What is unique about your business?

My Boutique offers a variety of options for all ages and styles!

70

What’s the best part of having your business in Owensboro?

I love being a part of the community that I grew up shopping in! It has always been a dream of mine to one day own a unique store to provide trendy styles for all women!

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

Be patient! Sometimes you can feel like you are doing everything in your power to get things going and your wheels are just spinning (I still have these days.)

You will get where you want as long as you keep a goal in mind, and keep moving forward! You’ve got this, we are a community!

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

4

5

6 N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

71

FROM THE ARCHIVES

A Look Back at

CHRISTMAS PAST Written by

L O R A W I M S AT T

C

hristmas in Owensboro was a festive event in 1920, just as it is now. There are many things that have changed

a great deal over the past century, and others that have remained very much the same.

Let’s delay our walk through the

winter wonderland long enough to stroll “through the archives” and see what was happening in our hometown during the most wonderful time of the year … 100 years ago.

With the Great War still a recent

memory, President Warren G. Harding endorsed the idea that every family

in locating the intended recipient of a

treasures, “One little maiden paused

package addressed to “Marie, from Aunt

before a glorious big Santa and said,

Hannah.” Delivery was promised that

‘Please,

very day if a more definite address could

Margaret.’”

be determined.

cannot help but hope that little Margaret

But in the meantime, the previous

Santa

Claus,

don’t

forget

One hundred years later, the reader

week, the newspaper had reported the

was remembered well.

“Christmas rush is in full sway,” with

“liberal buying at all of Owensboro stores;

“Owensboro’s

gifts attractive this year”!

Merchandise”

“Everyone smiles on the street,” the

advertisement featuring gift ideas for the

article stated, and the stores were festive,

whole family. I wonder what the ladies

Christmas gifts through the mail to

too:

attractively

really thought of their suggestion that

remember

securely.

trimmed in their red and green – here and

“a very practical gift to give to sister or

According to an article published in the

there a bright red chimney and now and

daughter would be one of these Redfern

Owensboro Messenger just a few days

then Santa Claus, and again snow and ice

Corsets, made of beautiful quality pink

after Thanksgiving, “much trouble over

suggesting a real Christmas.”

satin, front lace and low bust.” Only $10.

carelessly wrapped and poorly addressed

packages” had been avoided because his

by

should place an American flag at the top of their Christmas trees, a “beautiful custom” that also provided “a lesson in patriotism.”

Local

warned

Postmaster anyone to

Clint

planning

wrap

boxes

Griffith to

send

“The

Among

windows

items

being

–

and of

published

Ray

–

Standard a

large

An equally doubtful suggestion was

leather

featured in another ad’s insistence that

clerks refused to accept anything not

what the lady of the house really wanted

appropriately bundled. He also shared a

for the home, and something called

was …. a vacuum cleaner. Just think, men:

reminder that candy and tobacco intended

“queensware” – a type of cream-colored

“If your wife is tired out when you come

for American troops stationed in Germany

Wedgwood pottery.

home at night, if she is losing her dainty

must be placed in tin or light wooden

Children were especially caught up in

appearance and her good temper alike,”

boxes before mailing.

the spirit, “trying everything in the stores

the money you invest in a new vacuum

that makes a noise or squeaks, or runs

cleaner will pay off in “playtime and

when wound up.”

happiness.”

Christmas

Day,

assistant

postmaster Ed Hayden pleaded for help

72

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

clothing,

jewelry,

up

Store

novelties

On

were

swept

Lyddane

goods,

But not everyone listened.

shoppers

are

McAtee,

furniture,

Remembering the source of these

Wonder how THAT turned out?

A better idea might have been offered by George Steitler, who offered new Victrolas (sold on the easy payment plan), guaranteed to “make your Christmas this year musical.”

His store was open evenings, and everyone was invited to stop by to hear recordings for children titled “Santa Claus Tells About His Toy Shop” or “Santa Claus Gives Away His Toys.” For the sentimental crowd, there was “That Old Irish Mother of Mine,” a melody guaranteed to make listeners think of their own mothers – whether they were Irish or not – with the reminder that “you can’t find a better place for your thoughts.”

But how to pay for these gifts? Well, the Owensboro

Banking Co. had the answer. Their Dec. 25 advertisement invited visionary individuals to consider the benefits of a Christmas Club account. “Think how simple a matter your Christmas buying would be this year if you had been a member of our club,” they said. Promising that “payments are small but the check is big,” the bank offered seven levels of savings, starting with the investment of 10 cents a week, which would pay off $5 in December 1921, all the way up to the fabulous $10 a week, which would yield a whopping $500 … plus 4 percent interest!

Gift-giving, budgeting, and children’s Christmas wishes … they

have remained with us through the years. But best of all is the eternal message of the season. May that gift be with you now and in all the days to come.

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

73

74

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 Owensboro Living

75

76

Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0