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Contents
SEPT/ OCT 2021 TRENDING 8 BEHIND
THE SCENES
A note from our editor.
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 I N
THE KNOW
9 events to put on your calendar.
14 M U S I C
14-time Grammy winner Dan Tyminski returns to Romp.
18 M U S I C
Gwen Payne: Leading Symphony Through Unique Times
LIFESTYLE 52 H O M E
Remodeling with an eye for design - sponsored by Ryan Rutman Real Estate Group.
58 S E N I O R
LIVING
Discover the value of asking for help.
FLAVOR 64 R E C I P E
FEATURES
22 KENTUCKY’S EQUINE INDUSTRY
The equine industry is flourishing throughout the United States, contributing over $50 billion annually to the national economy, along with over 900,000 jobs. But there is no place in America as synonymous with horses as Kentucky. BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
36 THE RETURN OF ROMP
After a year hiatus due to COVID, the much-anticipated bluegrass festival returns to Yellow Creek Park. B Y J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K
41 MY BLUEGRASS STORY
Tanner + West and The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum team up to produce a TV show that tells the untold stories of bluegrass musicians. B Y D A N N Y M AY
46 THE ROSENWALD SCHOOL AT PLEASANT GROVE The Importance of Education in the Fight Against Discrimination BY STEVEN WILSON
It’s fall y’all! Don’t miss this delicious recipe for autumn baked apples.
67 R E C I P E
How to smoke a beef brisket from Hill View Farms Meats.
70 D I S H
What we’re eating now: Local dishes we can’t live without!
72 R E S TA U R A N T
SPOTLIGHT
Gramps brings unique donuts to downtown.
SPECIAL SECTION
22 AGRICULTURE S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Trending B E H I N D
THE SCENES
EDITORIAL
EDITOR’S NOTE
EDITOR
A Glimmer of Hope
A
s I write this, Summer and I have just dropped Jude and Nolie off for their first days of fourth grade and kindergarten. For us and the kids, there’s a mix of excitement, apprehension and a feeling of stepping into
something new. Change can be hard, as all of us have learned over the last year and a half, but change can also teach us valuable lessons if we let it. We learned the value of time together, and that there are so many things – like sharing experiences in-person with friends and family – that we take for granted.
As I write this, COVID numbers are surging again. Just like some of those feelings
that come with the start of a new school year, there is fear and apprehension. But there is also hope – hope that our local leaders, as well as the community, will make continue to make sound decisions on tough issues, not just for themselves, but for the greater good. We live in an unprecedented time, and from where I stand, our citizens have never been more divided – on issues of politics, race, science, religion and education. And though the path to resolution and reconciliation is steep and sometimes seems impossible to climb, I’m holding out hope that we can all see one another as fellow humans who deserve respect – because the climb has to start somewhere.
As I write this, I’m uncertain of what the future holds – both for my children’s
schoolyear and for the health and well-being of Owensboro and its people. But I know there are still good people out there – people being kind and generous and putting others first. People learning lessons and making changes after a year and a half of
Steven Wilson PUBLISHER
Jason Tanner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jamie Alexander Jacqueline Jordan John Kirkpatrick Marlys Mason Danny May Laura Murphy Dana Peveler Melody Wallace Ashley Wedding Lora Wimsatt
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
turbulence and turmoil. Those are the stories we aspire to bring you. And while I know
Jamie Alexander
that we can’t solve the world’s (or even our city’s) problems with a magazine – maybe
L AY O U T D E S I G N E R
our telling of positive and uplifting stories can provide a glimmer of hope to our readers in an otherwise uncertain time.
Andrea Roberson AD DESIGNER
Monica Smith
DISTRIBUTION
STEVEN WILSON, EDITOR
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Dave Mackey
steven@owensboroliving.com
To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 888-304-5416.
W H AT I ’ M RE A D I N G All the Light We Cannot See By Anthony Doerr In this fantastic work of historical fiction, Doerr introduces readers to a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths cross in the seaside city of Saint-Malo as they try to survive the horrors of World War II. From moving moments of a family’s love and loss to intense sequences of suspense, Doerr paints a stunning portrait of two individuals’ journeys through the chaos of war, and helps readers understand the devastating effects of battle on both soldiers and civilians.
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Trending N E W S W O R T H Y
5 things we’re talking about now
2 Owensboro Health Community Grants Owensboro Health announced nearly $720,000 in investments through their annual grant program that will support 35 projects throughout the region. This year’s amount means OH has invested
AP IMAGERY
more than $7 million in area agencies since 2011. The grants
Photo by
provide in-kind and financial support for health, human services and arts projects
1
Owensboro Air Show
With a turnout of 60,000 people, the 2021 Owensboro Air Show, held from
Funded projects and agencies being supported
August 13-15, was the biggest event ever hosted at the riverfront. Visitors
span a wide array of
from across the country reveled at the sights of the U.S Navy Blue Angels, a
regional needs, from
T-38 Talon and the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team. Guests traveled
children in local school
from across the country to take in the excitement of the show and enjoy a
districts to aging adults
weekend in downtown Owensboro.
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and programming throughout the region.
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
and senior services.
Brought to you by O W E N S B O R O T I M E S
5 DCPS “Kids First” Honorees Daviess County Public Schools has announced the five recipients of the ninth annual Teacher of the Year, Customer Service and Support Professional
3
OMFA Highlights Local Talent
The Owensboro Museum of Fine Arts is hosting an exhibit titled “The Consummate Craftsman.” Local artist Bill Kolok,
awards program. This Photo by
JOSH KELLY
year’s honorees are: Elementary Teacher of the Year - Sally Tingle
a sculptor and retired KWC art professor, will have six of
– Intermediate teacher,
Kolok’s pieces included in the new exhibit. Other participating
Highland Elementary
Owensboro artists include ceramicist Thomas Porter and
School; Middle School
glass blowing artist Brook Forrest White. OMFA admission is
Teacher of the Year -
free and open to the public. The exhibit runs through Oct. 24.
Jill Pate – Language
It includes a virtual tour of more than 75 objects along with
arts teacher, Burns
the in-person exhibit on the museum’s website.
Middle School; High School Teacher of the
4
Healthy Habits Expo Edge Body Boot Camp hosted its first Healthy Habits Expo in August
Year - Jonathan Leohr – Engineering and computer science teacher, Apollo High School; Support Professional - Sherri Boehman – Secretary, Burns Middle School;
to encourage people to
Customer Service Award
get healthy and active,
- Wendi Kozel, RN –
while also raising money
DCPS district health
for Kim Howard, an
coordinator.
Owensboro woman who is battling breast cancer. The
event
vendors health
included
focused and
on
wellness,
food trucks, and the Western
GET MORE NEWS LIKE THIS ON THE OWENSBORO TIMES APP. DOWNLOAD THE APP TODAY ON THE APP STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY.
Kentucky
Regional Blood Center bloodmobile. S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
DAN TYMINSKI RETURNS TO ROMP p. 14
IN THE KNOW: 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR p. 14
→
Photos by
SCOT T SIMONTACCHI
CULTURE
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Culture M U S I C
The New Tyminski 1 4 -T I M E G R A M M Y WINNER DAN TYMINSKI RETURNS TO ROMP Written by D A N N Y M AY
When Dan Tyminski takes the
stage on Saturday, September 18 at ROMP, he won’t be playing behind Allison Krauss, and he won’t just be the “Man of Constant Sorrow” guy or still riding the wave of popularity from the global pop smash hit “Hey Brother” (with Swedish DJ Avicii). This time, it’s his name alone on the program. He’ll be standing front and center on his own two feet, singing his own songs, with his own band backing him – which Tyminksi says is equally exciting and terrifying.
“Throughout my career, you’ve
heard
the
Lonesome
River
Band
version of Dan Tyminski, you’ve heard the Allison Krauss version of Dan Tyminski, you’ve heard the movie version and the pop version, but now you get Dan Tyminski’s version of
IN THE KNOW 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR
1
LABOR DAY JAM @ THE DAM S E P T E M BE R 4 @ B E AV E R DA M A M P H IT H E AT E R
The 3rd Annual Labor Day Jam @ The Dam features world-renowned artists Steve Earle & The Dukes and Los Lobos. Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation, a worthy heir to Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, his musical mentors. And with a powerhouse mix of rock, Tex-Mex, country, folk, R&B, blues and traditional Spanish and Mexican music, Los Lobos has been entertaining crowds for decades with hits like “La Bamba.”
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
2 BLOOD SWEAT & TEARS SE P T E M B E R 10 @ R I V E R PA R K CE NT E R
Blood, Sweat & Tears is not the first band to ever use a horn section, but they are the first to fuse it with rock, jazz, and some blues thrown in for good measure. Blood Sweat & Tears has had many configurations over its 50 plus years of touring but one thing for sure is that the music is timeless, and fans are never disappointed.
3
THE TASTE OF OWENSBORO SE P T E M B E R 20 @ R I VE RPA RK CE NT E R
Treat yourself to an all-youcan-eat evening with amazing entertainment! Get your tickets today. Over 30 area restaurants and regional wineries will be on-hand to let you sample some delicious food and drinks! The event also features a huge selection of amazing items in the silent auction. Proceeds from this event benefit educational programs.
Dan Tyminski. And in a very strange,
myself. I’m calling all the shots. It can
know or see the inner Dan. But now
weird way, that’s something new. I’ve
get a little scary as things get close to
I’m penning my own songs with my
always had that ability, but I’ve never
completion and this new music gets
own thoughts and words; things
had the time or the chance to veer
released.”
that are funny to me and things that
off and do my own thing. I had the
He’s
best job in the world for so long with
records before, including American
think music sounds more like you.”
Allison Krauss and Union Station. I
Gothic, a full-length country/pop
loved it so much that I never wanted
album released on Mercury Records
written
to do anything on my own. Now I’m
in 2017, which was described as an
Tyminski handpicked some of his
at a place where I’m exercising that
“American quilt of music” because
favorite musicians and booked a
freedom I’ve always had.”
it blended genres. But on his current
studio in Nashville that was big
project, Dan says he’s settling back
enough to record everyone together
original material to choose from at
into his first musical love.
at one time. “We went in to record
ROMP. At a time in his career when
five to six songs and came out with
other musicians might fade away
These new songs have
or find a second career off the road
really gotten to the root
and out of the spotlight, Tyminski
of what I’m all about
is doubling down, simultaneously
and are reminiscent of
recording two studio projects at the
what got me interested
same time.
in music in the first
He’ll certainly have plenty of
After
a
year-long
hiatus
released
his
place.
Honestly,
I
don’t know if I’ve ever
followed soon after by the pandemic
been as excited - or
shutdown,
the
as frightened - about
beginning of the COVID downtime
releasing music as I
to reassess and regroup for his next
am with these songs
phase. But he didn’t sit idle for long.
because it’s the real Dan
Instead, he built a studio in his
Tyminski coming out.
home and got to work writing and
In a way, writing music
recording.
is becoming easier for
“This is a new side of the musical
me as I concern myself
spectrum for me because I’ve always
less and less with this
performed, I’ve always been going
imaginary vail that I
fast, but I’ve recorded for other
held in front of me for so
people. Now I’m doing the recording
long so people wouldn’t
4
used
BRONZE BUFFALO FESTIVAL S E P T E M BE R 2 3 -2 5 @ OW E N S BO R O M U S E U M O F FI N E A R T
The 13th Annual Bronze Buffalo Festival is a threeday en plein air painting event for regional artists concluding with a GALA Exhibition and Auction. The Festival Gala takes place on September 25 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
5
solo
“I cut my teeth on Bluegrass.
recovering from a shoulder surgery, Tyminski
own
SAWYER BROWN S E P T E MB E R 25 @ R I V E R PA R K CENTER
Featuring hit songs “Step That Step” and “Some Girls Do”, Sawyer Brown songs often pushed the already loosened boundaries of what it meant to be a country band in the ’80s and ’90s. Like Alabama before them, the group found success with both rowdy, rocking material and more sentimental country ballads.
are tragic to me. When you do that, I So with a batch of new songs and
ready
to
record,
13 in two days. I think that’s ROMP WILL BE HELD SEPTEMBER 15-18 AT YELLOW CREEK PARK. 2021 MARKS THE 18TH YEAR FOR THE EVENT, AND FESTIVAL ORGANIZERS ARE MOVING ROMP FROM JUNE TO SEPTEMBER AS THE VACCINE ROLLOUT REACHES MORE PEOPLE, AND ACTIVE CASES CONTINUE TO TREND DOWNWARD. THIS YEAR’S LINEUP FEATURES BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS, LIVE FROM HERE WITH CHRIS THILE, SAM BUSH, DAN TYMINSKI AND MANY MANY MORE.
6
to
just
the
a
testament
proficiency
and
musicianship of these guys and the magic that happens when musicians play live together,
rather
than
tracking separately.”
Now Dan is mixing
and finishing up the songs himself in his home studio. The project is yet to be titled, but he says it will be in the style of Bluegrass he grew up hearing and first started playing.
Which brings us back
to ROMP. Although credits
the
Crowe
OO44
Dan
classic
J.D.
Rounder
MARSHALL TUCKER BAND OCTOB E R 2 @ B E AV E R DA M A M P HI T HE AT E R
The Marshall Tucker Band is a group that continues to have a profound level of impact on successive generations of listeners who’ve been searchin’ for a rainbow and found it perfectly represented by this tried-and-true Southern institution for over five decades. The band’s mighty music catalog, consisting of more than 20 studio albums and a score of live releases, has racked up multi-platinum album sales many times over in its wake.
→
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Culture M U S I C record he heard as a 12-year-
subgenres that are typical
old boy for setting him on
at ROMP, as well, and Dan
his path toward performing
feels
Bluegrass, he already had an
in that environment. “The
appreciation for the music and
beauty of an atmosphere like
a deep love for the community
ROMP is you get the entire
atmosphere he discovered at festivals he attended with his parents in Vermont. “I’m
so
grateful
for
festivals like ROMP that can create an atmosphere like this. There’s no better way to
experience
music
than
watching it be created live right there in front of you. I’m a big fan of recorded music, and a lot of what I do for a living is recorded music. But when people go to hear live music, the entirety of what you get in that community experience
is
absolutely
vital to music’s survival, and that’s particularly true with Bluegrass music.”
Bluegrass Music Hall of
completely
experience.
at
There’s
home
stuff
that’s traditional, but there’s also some stuff that’s kind of out there, too. You want to party to it, but you also can pray to some of it. There’s so many aspects to that musical journey that a festival can give you that a single concert just can’t. And I think ROMP handles that in an amazing way.”
Even if his knees are a
little shaky as he takes the stage at ROMP, his voice will be strong. He’ll be ready. With a grin on his face and a smile in his heart. “This is the most fascinating time I’ve ever had making music. It’s
Fame and Museum director,
exhilarating. I’m going at it
Chris Joslin, says Tyminski
how I’ve always gone at it. I’m
is the perfect “legacy” artist
attacking the songs with the
to
traditional
same passion, it’s just that
sound of Bluegrass music
now I’m connected to them
and the newer branches and
more.” OL
bridge
the
“I believe these will be the songs that define me for the rest of my career because they define my life experience, rather than the worlds I’ve been dropped into by other artists and situations. So it’s really fun to me to have such a connectivity to the songs I’m writing now.” ONE M OR E T I M E B E FOR E YOU G O The second project mentioned in this article is a tribute to Bluegrass Hall of Fame guitarist Tony Rice, who passed during COVID. What started as a song titled “One More Time Before You Go” evolved into a project that will likely be the first release from Tyminski’s new studio. That initial song and title track sparked the idea to honor Rice by recording other songs that Tony had done in the past. Guest musicians include Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, Todd Phillips, Molly Tuttle, and Billy Strings.
IN THE KNOW 9 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR
7 JABALI AFRICAN ACROBATS 8 O C TO BE R 1 2 @ R I V E RPA RK C E N T E R
Jabali is one of the most accessible performance groups in the world. They have worked at many of the world’s top festivals of the arts, including the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland, the Adelaide Festival in Australia, the Tokyo Festival in Japan, Circo Moira Orfei and Gatherland Park Verona in Italy. Additionally, they have performed at various International Children’s Festivals and Performing Arts Center throughout the United States and Canada.
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
SPECIAL NEEDS EXPO O C TO B ER 23 @ OWE NSB OR O CONV E NT I ON CENTER
The Expo is an opportunity for community agencies to collaborate in providing information about resources and services that will assist families in supporting a loved one with a disability. Special celebrity guest, Sean McElwee, a star of the show titled “Born This Way” will speak at the event and hold a fashion show. He is an entrepreneur who has created a business selling his own Seanese T-shirt line. Models in the fashion show will be able to select one of McElwee’s shirts to sport during the event. There is no charge to attend the Expo.
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THE STEELDRIVERS OCTOB E R 30 @ B LU EG R ASS MU S I C H A L L OF FA M E A ND M U SE U M
Grammy-winners for Best Bluegrass Album, the Steeldrivers have been fanfavorites since their debut in 2008. In 2018 the group made Grand Ole Opry history as the quintet was joined by superstars John Prine and Bill Murray on the revered stage to perform. Other accolades include a cameo in the Murray flick “Get Low.” Tickets are on sale now. VIP seating is $48, and reserved seating is $42. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and the concert begins at 7:00 pm.
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Culture M U S I C Photo by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
GWEN PAYNE
Leading the Symphony Through Unique Times Written by
JACQUELINE JORDAN
O
wensboro Symphony’s Gwyn Morris Payne may be new to the
role of CEO, but she’s been a steady hand at the organization for more
JAMIE ALEXANDER
than 20 years.
Payne’s musical abilities were
limited to clarinet and piano while growing up, but her other talents made her the right choice to take the
Photos by
reins at the symphony last August. “My background is finance,” she said. “I often joke when asked what instrument I play that it is the calculator.” Payne
worked
as
a
public
accountant for nearly 13 years before offering management and financial services to small businesses. In 2000, she got a call from a board member at the Symphony, who said they needed someone to manage the organization’s finances. She joined the staff as a part-time finance director and became a full-time employee a year later.
As different roles have become
vacant over the years, Payne has filled in temporarily, giving her a broad understanding of the organization.
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
She said running the Owensboro
Symphony is like running any business.
“Most people don’t think of a non-
during the current climate has been a
received during the last year has been
profit as a business, but it is,” Payne
challenge, but it’s one they have met
amazing and has allowed them to do
said. “We have to be frugal managers
with creativity and hope.
a complete revamp of their normal
of our money, forecast income and
“The COVID-19 pandemic pushed
program. They focused on programs
budget down to the dime. We also
this organization to become more
like Music On Call, which takes musical
have many stakeholder groups that I
creative with our programming than
experiences directly to individuals.
keep informed and engaged; donors,
we had ever been,” she said. “In March
The population impacted by Music On
sponsors,
granting
organizations,
2020, when the world shut down, our
Call may never attend a performance
patrons,
musicians,
community
Navigating the organization’s role
Payne
said
the
support
they
primary concern was how we would
in the traditional concert hall. Instead,
partners and many more!”
continue to connect with our patrons.”
it’s aimed at patients in the hospital,
She’s currently busy laying the
They were committed to being even
rehabilitation centers, nursing and
groundwork for next year — scheduling
more present in the community than
group homes, boys and girls clubs,
performances, making offers to guest
ever. “We all know there is a healing
recreational centers, senior centers,
artists, and continuing to grow their
power in music and what better time
libraries and special-needs programs.
community events. “Every day it’s a
to share this power as far and wide as
new adventure,” she said. “No day is
possible,” Payne said. “The pandemic
reached even more people by arranging
like the next, and I enjoy that about
challenged the Owensboro Symphony
for musicians to set up in parks and
my work.” She added that none of her
to find ways to connect with audiences.
perform for those that were enjoying
work is done alone, and that she’s very
Some of the programs were new and
the fresh air and trying to stay safe.
fortunate to work with a supportive and
others were enhanced to reach more
There were outdoor performances at
creative executive staff. She also enjoys
people. We also wanted to find ways to
retirement homes for the residents to
collaborating with the symphony’s
safely employ our talented musicians
sit at their windows and enjoy. There
talented Music Director, Troy Quinn.
during a very difficult time.”
were educational performances in the
In 2020, Music on Call grew and
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
19
Culture M U S I C
library courtyard as well as outdoor
phenomenal.”
— taking the orchestra to those that
school programs. They also reached
They’ve continued to find unique
have never been able to experience the
thousands by producing a televised
ways to perform for the community,
magic of a live performance of a full
holiday special called “Safe at Home for
such as the Symphony Stroll, Summer
the Holidays!” which aired on KET and
Salute and Symphony at the Market.
orchestra.”
local stations.
“The program aired on television
Payne looks forward to the days after
stations at the exact time and date
the pandemic. “This year has really
that our annual Holiday concert would
shown me that when tasked with
have taken place in the concert hall,”
the impossible we can all achieve so
times,” Payne said. “To have this
Payne said. “The reach and coverage
much,” she said. “I am looking forward
opportunity to be instrumental in
we received from this project was
to continuing our outreach initiatives
making this happen is a great feeling
exponential, and the response was
and connecting with the community
for me.” OL
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Although it’s been a dynamic year,
She’s excited, more than ever,
about making a difference in the community. “I believe that music heals and helps people through challenging
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Agriculture
Kentucky’s Equine Industry Article, Photos & Illustrations by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
The equine industry is flourishing throughout the United States, contributing over $50 billion annually to the national economy, along with over 900,000 jobs. But there is no place in America as synonymous with horses as Kentucky.
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Our state is one of the country’s
leading producer of horses overall, with horses being one of the state’s most profitable areas of agribusiness. Kentucky benefits from the equine industry in both direct and indirect ways;
from
the
consumption
of
agricultural products by the horses, to the lodging and local meals people from other states purchase when attending horse competitions. Even
though
Lexington
and
Louisville are considered the “core” of the Equine Industry in the state, Western Kentucky still has a thriving horse community; especially when it
comes
to
Quarter
Thoroughbreds. famous
One
Horses of
Thoroughbreds
the
most
from
the
Owensboro area was Spend A Buck, winner of the Kentucky Derby in 1985. After moving on to win the Jersey Derby, Spend A Buck held the largest single purse in American racing history (at $2.6 million), until Smarty Jones won the 2004 Kentucky Derby.
Brooklyn and Eric Foster
and
We had the opportunity to visit
just a few of the many prosperous equine farms around Owensboro to get a bit of their history and learn how they
growing.” While Eric does a lot of the planning, ordering, and scheduling of the races, Brooklyn works more handson by grooming and caring for them. They even incorporate their kids into the farm, with their daughter Jolene helping with therapy and as an extra farmhand when needed.
The Fosters do all that they can to
ensure the Thoroughbreds are treated like the athletes that they are. “Each horse has a special place in our heart
continue to grow.
while they are with us,” Brooklyn
Foster Family Racing
over everything.” From regular equine
As
Eric
and
Brooklyn
stated. “Their welfare takes precedence Foster
prepared their 16-acre farm in Utica, they bought a mare with plans to
chiropractor visits to electromagnetic therapy and massages, they do what they can to make sure the horses stay
their horses at Ellis Park in Henderson, which (along with their farm in Utica) is a location that works great for them as it is central to all the other tracks they race. They stress the importance of Ellis Park being a part of the Kentucky Commonwealth, with horses coming
eventually sell her foal. A year later,
healthy. “The horses often stay cleaner
they ran into some issues while trying
than I do” Eric laughed, “and they
to sell the baby, which led them to
always eat better.”
keeping it and training it to race. After
finding success with their first horse,
by how far they’ve come with racing
they began to add more. Ultimately
in an ostensibly short amount of time,
as well. “Shopping local is a big deal
this led to them leaving their jobs to
they also try to be diverse, so they
to us. We support local farmers with
manage their farm full-time.
aren’t counting on all their income
our hay, and feed mills with our feed.
The Fosters now enter over 100
coming from one area. That is why,
Everything we do, we try to keep our
races annually. They frequently find
along with owning their own horses,
dollars in Kentucky.”
themselves
they also train for other local owners.
traveling year-round to race in several
“There are actually a lot of owners
to grow, they take comfort in the fact
different states. They’ve had up to 21
around Owensboro. They like to come
that interest in the equine industry
horses at a time, taking on most of the
visit their horses and be a part of
holds steady. “In Kentucky, it’s hard
work themselves and continuing to
their day as they watch their progress.
to find somebody that hasn’t been
gain more knowledge as they proceed.
They couldn’t get that if they were
touched by the horse industry in
“You can’t learn it all” Eric says,
training their horses in Lexington or
some way. Especially in Owensboro.
“you never graduate - you just keep
Louisville.” The Fosters often board
People just love talking to us about it.”
on
the
leaderboards,
While the Fosters feel encouraged
from a variety of different states bringing money and jobs to the area. They regularly try to incorporate that idea into their own business practices,
As Foster Family Racing continues
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Agriculture
Sam Sergeant, Shelly & Dale Buskill, John Miles and Kara Hollis
Although the Fosters weren’t expecting the level of success they’ve had, the support they’ve encountered along the way makes them look forward to what the future holds.
Paradise Stables
Dale and Shelly Buskill have owned
their farm for decades, but it was only about six years ago that they started to
incorporate
thoroughbreds
into
their lives. When a friend called the Buskills wanting to breed a mare, they agreed, thinking they’d stop at just a couple of horses. “If you told me 6 to 7 years ago that I would own a bunch of thoroughbreds, I never would have believed you,” Dale said. They have now expanded to over a dozen horses, adding three new mares to their farm at the start of the pandemic alone. “During COVID, my daughter boxed up
“The amount of work he puts in is incredible. He’s got the strongest work ethic of anyone I’ve ever known.”
You often hear of people in the
horse industry working long days and full weeks, and the Buskills are no different. When they realized they could no longer split their work between the two of them, they expanded. They hired on a barn manager, carpenter, and stable hand. Together, the group works hard to keep the foals safe, which Shelly says is the most important thing about
them if it suits the horse. “You don’t just take a horse and put it in any race - you have to check through the many conditions to find the perfect race to match your horse.” Dale says that it would have been impossible to do without the help of horse trainer James Mattingly. “I think he’s one of the most knowledgeable horsemen on the planet. Any time I have a question, he’s my goto guy.” James and Dale work together often, with James even owning some of the horses on the farm.
Dale is also grateful that there is
such a supportive equine community in Western Kentucky. “One thing I’ll say about the equine community is that everyone is incredibly accommodating. I’m just starting out, so I ask a lot of questions and get a lot of helpful advice. It’s not like they think they’ll
all my stuff at my worksite and said,
owning horses.
‘I’ll see you when it’s over’.” This left
Dale with idle time that he filled almost
in every horse we own. Our greatest
entirely with researching and working
joy is to watch the babies race their
lot of traveling to Lexington during
with horses.
mommas through a field [with fences
breeding season, he says his dollars go
that we built to keep them safe].”
much further around Owensboro, and
success to luck, Shelly says that it comes
While their primary goal is to
is happy that there’s a horse industry
from Dale’s hard work and sacrifice.
breed the mares, the Buskills will race
thriving in this part of the state, as well.
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While Dale credits a portion of their
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
“We become emotionally invested
get anything in return, they all just want to help.” While there is still a
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Agriculture McKinley Quarter Horses
BY THE NUMBERS
Kentucky’s Equine Industry Pre-pandemic
Mike McKinley grew up on a
farm and was always comfortable around horses, but it wasn’t until his father, Eddie, took him to a rodeo
Just like many other businesses, the equine industry of Kentucky slowed down for a few months in 2020 when racing and sales were put on hold. It is now quickly making it’s way back to “normalcy.” To show what normal means, here are some pre-pandemic numbers of the impact the equine industry brings to Kentucky in one year (in this case, 2019).
that he started dreaming about being a cowboy. When Mike joined the service, he met cowboys from all over the country that taught him a lot about ranching and piqued his interest further. This led him to work on ranches in Texas, Oklahoma, and
Estimated Horse Population
238,027
Colorado; continually gaining more knowledge along the way. When
That’s one horse for every 18 people in Kentucky!
60
job categories are related to the equine industry
The equine industry generates a total of over
60,000
jobs in Kentucky
Kentucky with his wife, Connie, but
The equine industry generates
didn’t want to get rid of his cowboy
in annual cumulative direct, indirect, and induced economic activity.
they started raising quarter horses
$6.5 Billion
$377 Million
in an annual yearling sales at Keeneland
for cow penning and sorting. Thirty years went by, and now the
bred Quarter Horses in this part
There are
of Kentucky. “Getting this started
$115 Million
tax revenues for Kentucky through the Thoroughbred industry annually
of recreational riders are from out-of-state
together, and built their own arena
largest breeders of registered Cow-
EQUINE RECREATION
49%
way of life that he loved. Eventually,
McKinleys say they are one of the
THOROUGHBRED IMPACT 2019 brought over
issues and needed help with the family farm, Mike moved back to
WORKING WITH HORSES IN KENTUCKY
+
Mike’s father started having health
and experiencing our growth - I
Kentucky is the largest seller of Thoroughbred horses at public auction
couldn’t be more proud of my wife and father,” Mike said. “It’s a tough decision to make this your life and to put everything you have into your dream. We are thankful to God for what we have, and we want to share it with others.”
There are 77 different horse-related attractions in the state of Kentucky
EQUINE RACING Racing operations had a
$517 million
direct impact on Kentucky’s economy
112 out of 147
Kentucky Derby winners are Kentucky-Bred
Attendance for the Kentucky Derby averages around
150,000 people
Facts were obtained from Kentucky Thoroughbred Association via kentuckybred.org. Check out their website for more facts and a list of sources!
26
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Around 120,000 mint juleps are sold throughout Derby weekend
Mike McKinley
Mike has people that travel from all over the tristate for different cow horse lessons. He offers penning and sorting lessons, cow catching, roping, and even offers beginner riding lessons and private lessons. “I don’t mind teaching anyone anything they want to learn,” he says. “I know not everyone has been exposed to it in our area, so I want to help as many people as I can that would like something alternative to barrel and pole racing.”
McKinley’s beginner lessons have started with kids as
young as three years old. His hopes are that more kids become exposed to the Quarter Horse world. “Not every kid can play sports, so we’d love to give them an opportunity to see if this is something they’d like to do. There needs to be more Kentucky kids visiting junior rodeos and competing in big shows!” Brittany Gaddis
Local equestrian Brittany Gaddis and her family all started
to learn from Mike earlier this year. “We attend regularly to practice. It was challenging to learn at first, but once we fell in love with the sport, that’s all we want to do with our weekends!” Brittany’s husband, Trae, purchased a horse from Mike, and won first place at a sorting competition just three months later. Mike is a big believer in wanting his students to thrive and enter as many competitions as possible. “We are so incredibly proud of people that come to learn from us, then move on to do well in competitions. It’s what it’s all about for us.”
The McKinleys also host local shows in their arena, always
hoping that the equine community gains more exposure. They have a lot of pride in what they’ve built, both in the quality of horses and in the local community itself. “It’s not like we are world champions,” Mike says, “but it’s the little steps that are still major successes for us.” OL
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Agriculture OCTOBER EVENTS AT T R U N N E L L’ S FA L L F A R M E X P E R I E N C E
Wine Your Way Out FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1ST
An exclusive wine tasting adventure held within Trunnell’s Corn Maze featuring excellent wines from Local Wineries and smooth Kentucky Bourbon from Green River Distillery in Owensboro, Ky.
Fall Friday Nights on the Farm FRIDAYS, OCTOBER 8TH, 15TH, & 22ND
An adult evening with Moonlit Wagon rides, live entertainment, bonfires, Delicious food, farm bar, and splendid fall views!
Flashlight Night at Trunnell’s
T R U N N E L L’ S FA R M E X P E R I E N C E
The Place to Be this Fall! W
Enjoy Night Time Fun for all ages as the Farm Lights up with Cozy Bonfires, Moon Lit Wagon Rides to the pumpkin
hen the weather cools and the
patch, & Flashlight Corn
air turns crisp, there’s no better
Maze. Hallowine & Brew Fest:
place to feel the magic of fall than on the farm. The harvest season brings colorful foliage, crisp apples, mild weather and pumpkins galore.
The
Farm is the place to be this fall... Trunnell’s the
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16TH
premier
Farm
Exprience,
agri-tainment
venue
in Western Kentucky and Southern
caramel apples, search for the perfect pumpkin, get lost in the giant corn maze, grab a wine slushie or sip on your favorite fall drink. Every autumn, thousands of visitors flock to this family farm to make lasting memories. Kids that come to Trunnell’s long the
memories
taking
dressed in your Favorite Costume for our Adult Trick or Tasting (Local Wine & Brew) around the Farm Adventure.
Hallowine & Brew Fest FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29TH
Indiana, is the place to score the perfect
treasure
pumpkin and farm family fun this
an
season! You’ll fall in love with fall over
wagon ride to the pumpkin patch and
and over again at Trunnell’s. You can
picking their own pumpkin right off
& Brew) around the Farm
enjoy the warmth of the bonfires, eat
the vine. Sometimes that means tall
Adventure.
old-fashioned
of
Friday, October 29th, An evening
tractor-drawn
An evening dressed in your Favorite Costume for our Adult Trick or Tasting (Local Wine
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
29
Agriculture and skinny, sometimes short and
mouth starts to water for a glass of
round, sometimes even green and
their cold, crisp apple cider. While
misshapen!
strolling
Trunnell’s Farm Experience &
of pumpkins displayed, your ears
Market located in Utica, KY off Hwy.
ring with laughter from families
431 (Frederica Street), at first glance
making memories exploring the
looks like many other farms across
35+ attractions at Trunnell’s Farm
the tri-state this time of year, but
Experience!
there is something magical about
you can see hundreds of families
this farm and the experience they
walking the paths of the giant corn
give their guests. The minute you
maze adventure and the beautiful
step out of your vehicle, you are
sunflower fields!
greeted by a sea of bright orange
exclaims, “Guests of all ages love
pumpkins,
shocks,
to visit our farm and make magical
colorful gourds, bales of straw and
memories! We are excited to share
stunning mums.
As you approach
with all our guests the new additions
the farm market, the delicious smell
we have for the 2021 fall season
of fresh baked pumpkin bread,
kicking off September 4th with our
fried apple pies, and apple cider
4th Annual Sunflower Experience!
donuts tickle your nose, and your
SEE YA’LL AT THE FARM! OL
30
golden
corn
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
among
the
thousands
From atop the hill,
Kevin Trunnell
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
31
Agriculture
OWENSBORO GRAIN
125 Years in Business and Still Going Strong Written by L A U R A M U R P H Y Photo by D AV I D G R I N N E L L
“I always knew I wanted to be part
produced feed for chickens, responding
1906, has grown and evolved since
of the company,” Wright said. “Quite
to the current needs of that time,
the time when the main companies in
a bit has changed in the industry since
something they have continued to do
town included buggy makers, wagon
then. We are able to produce different
over the past few decades.
manufacturers and blacksmiths. In
products that benefit the company,
the past 115 years, the family-founded
which in turn benefits and majorly
Owensboro
business has expanded from primarily
impacts people’s lives.”
buying corn and selling it. I worked for
processing corn and wheat to offering
Wright can remember when a
my father at a feed mill that we had. We
USP
shift occurred in the primary diet of
are always developing and working on
glycerin in a biodiesel facility.
Americans in the late 1980’s, causing a
plans. We are always thinking of what
shift in production for this company in
we could do next,” Wright said.
Owensboro
Grain,
Pharmaceutical
founded
grade
in
refined
The O’Bryan family, who founded
“My
great
grandfather
Grain
in
started
1906—mainly
response.
much success in the community and
Around the world, people were
quite extensive, with several updates to
beyond,
Owensboro
Grain,
has
experienced
The progression in recent years is
manufacturing
starting to change their diets and eat
the company before the pandemic hit.
based largely on the demands of
chicken in greater quantities than beef.
In 2007, Owensboro Grain built an oil
consumers and the current market.
refinery to finish oil and sell it to food
While they used to primarily provide
in their diet,” Wright said. “It became
companies.
white corn, yellow corn, and wheat to
more economical to raise chickens.
local distillers and mills, today they are
What we were producing was not geared
January 2014, the fourth generation
shipping nationwide.
increasing
“People began eating more poultry
According to their website, “In
to enable them to grow very efficiently.
continued
John
We switched production to make a feed
commissioning a Prime Power CHO
Wright started at Owensboro Grain in
that was more conducive to the poultry
(Combined Heat and Power) CoGen
1984, joining his family business after
diet.”
facility to produce 100 percent of the
graduating from college.
power needs for our plant.”
Executive
32
Vice
President
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Wright says they built a plant that
this
tradition
by
first
By 2019, they opened a plant to produce soy-based wax
used to make candles. This gave them an opportunity to market soy-based lubricants, solvents and waxes produced at Owensboro Grain.
This new plant could produce 150 million pounds of
wax a year, using 10 million bushels of soybeans, which in turn protects those bushels of soybeans from tariffs in other countries. Soybean wax is safer for the environment than paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum.
As far as their impact locally, Wright feels that offering
jobs within the community is something they can be proud of.
“As we have diversified to make more products, we have
been able to employ more people,” Wright said.
During the pandemic, Owensboro Grain continued to
produce and sell.
“We are an essential business, so we continued to operate.
The impact we had was substantial, but it never shut us down. It slowed us down but did not shut us down,” Wright said.
As far as what fuels his passion, Wright says he is an
industrialist, something he continues to enjoy.
“I like to build plants. If you want to stay in business,
you have to constantly think of new ideas and things to do,” Wright said. And after 125 years of operations, that’s exactly what Owensboro Grains continues to do. OL
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Agriculture
The Return of the Reid’s Orchard Apple Festival Written by M E L O D Y WA L L A C E
As October approaches, it brings
Reid, said the orchard has only had to
to want to get out and people are going
with it the idea of cooler weather, warmer
cancel the festival twice before, due to
to flock here, and it's going to be a
clothes, pumpkins, apples, and all things
excessive rain.
big one,” Reid said. “But with COVID
fall. While the weather may dictate a lot of
“We planned on having it last year,
spiking back up, I’m just not sure what's
things in Owensboro, for nearly 35 years,
but cancelled after the Kentucky State Fair
going to happen. I’m curious how long
the Reid’s Orchard Apple Festival has
cancelled,” Reid said. “We were concerned
Daviess County will be in the red. We’re
been the event that officially kicks off the
about the safety of our employees,
still planning on having it as long as
season for so many.
ourselves, the vendors and the public.”
everything stays the same.”
After cancelling the 2020 Apple
Festival
due
to
public
Although the Reid family is hard
Steeped in tradition, the core of the
concerns
at work preparing to accommodate the
Apple Festival has stayed the same over
surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the
over 20,000 people anticipated to attend
the years, but the events and activities
Reid family excitedly announced that the
this year’s Apple Festival, they are also
have grown with the times and the
Apple Festival will be making its return
cautiously
families that attend. After being inspired
the weekend of October 16 and 17, 2021.
COVID-19 and Delta variant numbers.
by friends in 1986 to create a fall festival
in a farm setting, the Reids designed a
Apple Festival Coordinator Kathy
optimistic,
given
recent
“Part of me says people are going
20,000 - 24,000
16,000
3,000
1,500
1,200
PEOPLE IN
POUNDS OF
CARAMEL APPLE
CARAMEL
GALLONS OF APPLE
AT T E N D A N C E
APPLES SOLD
SUNDAES MADE
APPLES MADE
CIDER USED
34
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
small festival of their own, named after
to eat and it's hard to choose what you
to be my favorite.”
one of their largest crops, and composed
want to eat because there's so many good
of just 20 outdoor craft booths and a few
things. And there's always some very
members of her husband Billy’s family
indoor food vendors.
interesting crafts. We have some very
could be seen cutting up apples for the
talented vendors that come to the apple
close to 3,000 caramel apple sundaes
festival.”
they serve each year. Now, they rely on
Over the years, there have been
additional activities added for children and
families,
including
live
music,
FOR THE DEDICATED ATTENDEE
carnival rides, pony rides, a petting zoo and the Reidland play area. This year, there are approximately 100 craft vendors and 20 food booths expected, offering a little something for everyone.
“When we started this, our youngest
was 18 months and our oldest was five, so we definitely had family in mind,” Reid said. “The husbands can sit and listen to
and meet people and see people you haven’t seen,” Reid said. “And they still come back for the food. Some people come back for the crafts and the vendors; I have some vendors that have been here almost since we started.”
the music; the wives can go shopping and
FAN AND FAMILY FAVORITES
the kids can go play.”
FOR THE FIRST TIME ATTENDEE
“It's always just a fun time to come
“We have a booth we run called a
Kathy said, over the years, various
other family members and volunteers to create a one-of-a-kind experience for the public.
“In the past we’ve had a lot of people
that just come volunteer to work,” Kathy said. “It’s been a fun time having family members and different people help us — without those people we just wouldn't be able to do this.”
When asked if she thought cancelling
last year’s event would affect this year’s attendance at all, Kathy was hopeful.
“I really think it will exceed that
caramel apple sundae,” Reid said. “We
[20,000] this year, if we continue to have
“For those that have never been,
take apples and put them on a little
it,” Reid said. “I expect more younger
I would say come hungry,” Reid said.
machine and curl them accordion style,
people and I expect this to be a high
“That's the biggest thing; there's all
then cut them up and put caramel on them
attendance year, unless COVID is rearing
kinds of food booths. Everybody wants
and add nuts if desired. That would have
its ugly head at us at that time.” OL
THE 2021 REID’S ORCHARD APPLE FESTIVAL WILL TAKE PLACE SATURDAY, OCT. 16 FROM 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. AND SUNDAY, OCT.17 FROM 12 - 6 P.M.
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Features
The Return of ROMP Written by J O H N K I R K PAT R I C K Photo provided by B L U E G R A S S M U S I C H A L L O F FA M E A N D M U S E U M
I
36
its
the event and uses the funds raised
and personality of the festival and
acronym — ROMP — the River
to preserve its mission of providing
offered more opportunities.”
of
nternationally Music
known
Party
has
by
evolved
educational opportunities about the
drastically since its conception in
genre.
to feature multiple stages, craft
2004. This year’s music festival
and food vendors, and a kid zone,
will run from September 15 - 18 at
appetite
Yellow Creek Park.
bluegrass culture prides itself on
of
The festival traces its humble
building communities around these
environment.
beginnings back to English Park and
festivals,” said museum executive
most recently added a LED video
has been a staple in the community
director Chris Joslin. “They want to
wall to add to the experience.
for 17 years. Since its inception, the
camp and stay — Yellow Creek Park
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and
was the perfect spot to move the
programming on Western Kentucky
Museum has organized and operated
festival. It coincided with the vision
University’s
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
“There has always been an for
the
festival;
the
That vision has since evolved
aligning with the museum’s mission creating
a
family-friendly
The
organization
The festival captures primetime public
broadcasts.
Before the pandemic, the event attracted renowned radio personality Chris Thile, who hosts Live from Here out of New York City.
“This festival transcends the notion of what is
perceived as bluegrass music — it’s more than banjos and fiddles,” Joslin said. “There is a new generation of bluegrass fans that range from 25 to 35 years old. We feature traditional bluegrass, jam bands, and everything in between; there’s a growing audience, and we’re trying to capture it.”
The Bluegrass Museum and Hall of Fame moved
into their new 21,000 square foot facility in downtown Owensboro in 2019. ROMP has featured guests from 41 states and six countries, all while catering to the local crowd. After the one-year COVID hiatus, Joslin said they hope to expand the relationship between the museum and ROMP.
“We are constantly striving to be a destination
activity — this is the headquarters of the genre, and I think people enjoy being this close to the source,” he said. “We’ve added several new portions that are unique to the museum.”
Aside from serving as the organization’s number
one fundraiser, the event also exists as a cultural tourism anchor and drives economic development. Joslin said that hometown pride is a central theme of the festival, and they hope to encourage visitors to return to Owensboro.
“It is an exhausting experience for our staff, but
we are driven by wanting to forward the mission of the museum,” he said. “We are both proud and grateful for the opportunity to host people from everywhere in Owensboro.”
This year’s event begins on Wednesday on the
Pioneer Village stage at 7 p.m. at the park’s rear entrance and runs through Saturday midnight. Joslin added that there is no shortage of music.
The event also features a full line-up of artist-
led instrument workshops, as ROMP artists interact with fans and players of all ages and skill levels. Other workshops and forums include songwriting, clogging and flat-foot dancing, yoga (all levels), and bluegrass jamming 101.
More information about the festival — including
daily lineups, ticket availability, merchandise, and more — is available on the event’s website, rompfest.com. Additional updates are available by searching “ROMP” on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. OL
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Features
38
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Features
MY BLUEGRASS STORY
New TV Series Produced in Owensboro Filmed at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum, My Bluegrass Story will air nationally on RFD-TV starting this fall. Photo by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
Written by D A N N Y M AY
Director of Photography David Grinnell, Dan Tyminski and Director Jason Tanner
W
hat began as a brainstorming
role to dig deeper into the artist’s
session between Chris Joslin,
background stories, childhood memories
it’s something viewers can engage with
“This is not just a TV show you watch,
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame
and influences, the meaning behind
right here (at the museum),” Joslin said.
and Museum Director, and Jason Tanner,
certain songs, and other insights that
“So now we’re thinking about how to
owner
most people have never heard before.
best display these artifacts in a new My
agency, has developed into a TV show
But the real highlight of each episode
Bluegrass Story exhibit - whether it’s
called My Bluegrass Story that was
is a live, solo performance filmed inside
instruments, awards, images, song lyrics,
completely filmed here in Owensboro.
the Hall of Fame room surrounded by the
etc. - with a multimedia presentation that
plaques of past Hall of Fame inductees.
will bring these artifacts and the stories
Bluegrass music, but each thirty-minute
“These
behind them to life for our visitors.”
episode focuses on an individual artist’s
performances,” Tanner said. “We filmed
story about how Bluegrass music has
them just a few feet away, so it’s like a
is also a way to shine a spotlight on the
impacted them personally. Beautifully
private concert. Just to see the level of
rich culture of greater Owensboro and
filmed inside the Bluegrass Music Hall of
dedication, talent, and passion these
drive tourism to Owensboro. Indirectly,
Fame and Museum, the show also features
people have is amazing and inspiring.”
it’s another piece of the puzzle that helps
of
Tanner+West
advertising
The series tells the bigger story of
b-roll footage from past performances at ROMP, interspersed with about ten minutes of storytelling by each artist.
are
blow-your-mind
Each featured artist also brought along
S E A S O N O N E F E AT U R E S DAN TYMINSKI, DEL
The creators say My Bluegrass Story
establish and define Owensboro as the
an artifact or memento that is
true home of Bluegrass music.
especially meaningful to them,
which adds a nice secondary
both missions of the Bluegrass Music
story to each episode. Those
Hall of Fame and Museum. “Our internal
As such, Joslin says the TV show serves
According to Tanner, the
M C C O U R Y, R H O N D A
artists appreciated getting to
V I N C E N T, T R E Y
artifacts were then left at the
mission is to tell the story of Bluegrass
the heart of their story through
H I N S L E Y, D O Y L E
museum to be staged together
music and preserve the genre through
the interview process for each
LAWSON, ROB ICKES,
as an exhibit at the conclusion
storytelling and exhibits. But our broader,
episode. It was the director’s
AND MORE.
of season one.
external mission is a larger economic
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
41
Features Photos by B R E T T D O W N I N G Right: Del McCoury and Director Jason Tanner Top left: Director of Photography David Grinnell and Rob Ickes Bottom left: Joe Mullins, Camera Operator Nate Spicer and Director of Photography David Grinnell.
strategy around cultural tourism that is
like this building, ROMP, Bluegrass
for Tanner+West,” said Tanner. “We’re
Owensboro-centric. So that’s what we’re
Unlimited magazine, and now this TV
storytellers at heart, so to be able to help
really trying to do with this TV show is
show are all evidence of living out that
someone else tell their story is what we
spotlight the Bluegrass Music Hall of
claim.”
really love to do. All of these artists have
Fame and Museum as the epicenter of
The entire first season (thirteen
the same passion for their craft as we do
Bluegrass music.
episodes) has already been filmed and is
for our craft, so to be a part of this is huge
“Certainly, Bluegrass lives and thrives
now being edited. Tanner says the first
for us. You put those two things together,
in many places around the world. But
six episodes will be delivered to RFD-TV
and you get a fantastic product.“People
there is not another cultural institution
[see sidebar] in October to start being
are going to be blown away when they see
dedicated solely to Bluegrass Music like
aired in November. Each show will air
it,” Tanner continued. “Even if you’re not
we have here at the Hall of Fame and
twice a week on RFD-TV. After it’s TV
a fan of bluegrass music, if you’re a fan
Museum. This $15 million building is a
run, the Bluegrass Hall of Fame and
of a good story, you’re going to love this
destination that houses the Hall of Fame.
Museum retains digital rights as well.
show. And I can almost guarantee there
We’re trying to be for Owensboro what
At the time of this printing, it was still
will be people who have never heard of
the Country Music Hall of Fame is for
being decided which streaming service
these artists before that will become a fan
Nashville, or the Rock and Roll Hall of
would pick up My Bluegrass Story. Plans
after watching the episode. We’ve already
Fame is for Cleveland. But it’s not enough
for season two are already in the works.
seen that happen from a few people who
to make a claim. You’ve got to live out that
“Being able to produce a high-quality
watched the pilot. That was a result we did
claim in really tangible ways. So things
TV show like this is a dream come true
not expect.” OL
W H E R E TO WATC H My Bluegrass Story will initially air in November on RFD-TV, a cable TV channel devoted to rural America that reaches 52 million homes via DirectTV, Dish Network, Spectrum, AT&T Uverse, and many more TV providers, as well as streaming through ROKU, Apple TV, Firestick and Sling TV. You can also watch online at watchrfdtv.com.
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
43
SPONSORED CONTENT
Wendell Foster Half Marathon PRESENTED BY OWENSBORO HEALTH
T
he 2021 Wendell Foster Half
handing out shirts and race swag,
Marathon,
by
guiding participants at turns on the
Owensboro Health, will be their
course, creating “cheer zones” on
third, with the inaugural race being
long stretches, handing out water,
on March 23rd, 2019.
and much more.
Presented
The course
To participate as
is flat and fast, circling many of
a volunteer, contact Sarah Poole at
the beautiful areas of Owensboro.
spoole@wendellfoster.org.
Training runs, which are for runners/ walkers of any pace, have already begun,
starting
from
Legends
Owensboro, each Saturday morning
November 2nd @ 12pm:
General Volunteer training at
at 7:30am.
Wendell Foster’s Young Building
Runners:
(815 Triplett Street)—If these dates
With over two months to go, the WFHM
Important Dates:
has
already
registered
work for you all. November 4th @ 12pm:
participants from thirteen states,
Water Station Training at Wendell
anticipating
Foster’s Young Building (815 Triplett
1,000
runners
and
walkers on race day. Expo Guest Speaker and WFHM participant, Peter
Street)
Sponsors:
The race wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Owensboro’s business community. Presenting Sponsor: Owensboro Health Volunteer Sponsor: Edward Jones Gold: Tanner + West Mile Wide Beer Co. Silver: Rehabilitation Performance Institute Legends, PCA Pharmacy Daviess County Public Library Five Star Food Service, ProRehab Bronze:
Kline, Founder of Marathons with
November 8th @ 11:59pm:
Kentucky BioProcessing, Dr. Greg
Meaning, will also be in attendance,
Online Registration closes
L. Adams, Owensboro Pediatrics,
running with a rider athlete. November 12th @ 11am-7pm:
Volunteers:
Race Expo at the Owensboro Convention Center
Over 300 volunteers are needed to
Liberty Financial, Brown & Westendorf Group Keller Williams Elite General Sponsors:
make the Expo and Half Marathon
November 13th @ 7:30am:
Dr. John Hammen, DMD, Anthem,
run
Race starts at 7:30am
Atmos Energy OL
44
smoothly.
Duties
include
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
45
Features THE ROSENWALD SCHOOL AT PLEASANT GROVE
The Importance of Education in the Fight Against Discrimination 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
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
R
acism
takes
many
From slavery to segregation to
modern-day disparities in healthcare and education, the effects of racism have shaped our nation’s history. But
during
that
history,
certain
groups have vigorously fought for some semblance of equality for Black Americans. This is a brief history of segregated education in Kentucky, the efforts of those that sought change, and the impact they had on education in our community.
KENTUCKY’S SEGREGATED SCHOOL SYSTEM
forms.
Daviess County is presently home
to sixteen schools for elementary-aged
Kentucky secondary
elementary
schools
were
the
and legally
Court’s 1954 decision in Brown v. Board of Education, and even then, complete statewide school desegregation did not occur in Kentucky until after inequality
Still today, racial
persists
in
our
school
systems. In addition to other factors, this inequality is largely the product of the mechanism by which schools rely
students. Many schools have come and
on funding – property taxes.
gone during the county’s history, and
education
of
schools,
discrimination in taxing at the time: “Racial discrimination in local school taxation is practiced in many schooltaxing districts in Kentucky. Most typical of these is the class of school taxing districts known as graded common school districts. We have somewhat more than two hundred of these units and this discrimination is practiced in most of them. The typical procedure in such cases is for the board of trustees, which is the levying authority, to levy a tax for local school purposes, but to limit that levy to
In 1913, after years of essentially the
in
and how it was achieved through
segregated until the U.S. Supreme
September 1975.
discrimination
such property within the district as at
others have been forgotten. But the
ignoring
Black
the date of the levy is owned by white
building that housed one of the area’s
Kentuckians, the Kentucky Board of
people and by corporations and to
oldest schools still stands, tucked
Education created the State Agent
exempt from the levy such property as
away in Yellow Creek Park’s Pioneer
of Negro Schools. In 1924, Mr. L.N.
at that date may be owned by colored
Village.
While many visitors to the
Taylor became the first Director of
people. The purpose of this exemption
park have seen the structure, few may
the Division of Negro Education. In a
of property owned by colored people is
appreciate its significance.
report to the KEA, Mr. Taylor described
to afford an excuse for denying to the
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
47
Features schools attended by colored children
Rockefeller, but far fewer are familiar
most
of the district any part of the revenue
with the work of Julius Rosenwald,
the building of 5,388 schools and 217
derived from such taxation.” Mr.
former owner of Sears, Roebuck and
teacher homes for Black students in
Taylor went on to note that “Wherever
Company.
the South. One of those schools is the
racial discrimination of any of these
forms is practiced, its purpose and
Booker
effect is to discriminate in revenues
Tuskegee Institute, Julius established
and
school
against
the
In 1917, in collaboration with T.
Washington
and
the
important
contribution
was
building that still stands at Yellow Creek Park.
In the early fall of 1919, Black
service
students enrolled in grades
colored
1-8
at
the
Rosenwald
children of the district
School in Pleasant Ridge
as compared with the
in
white children of the
County.
same district. It results
rural
in
graduated, and the school
shorter
terms,
southeast
Daviess
More than 1,000 county
shorter courses, poorer
had
school houses, more
positive
meager
education of Black students
equipment,
poorer teacher service,
in
and
a
residents
our
profound impact
and
on
community.
The
of
school
closed
to
37
as
students
enrolled
school for the colored
in
consolidated
African
children of the district.
American
deprivation
transportation
in
the
1936-
schools
in
Owensboro.
Such are its purposes. Such are its effects.”
the Rosenwald Fund.
In total, the 5,000-plus rural
From
Southern schoolhouses served more
Slavery, Rosenwald was inspired by
than 700,000 black students over
Washington’s
ROSENWALD SCHOOLS
After reading
memoir,
Up
his collaborator’s zeal for education,
four decades, and Rosenwald Schools
failing to afford an equal education
particularly
as
against
comprised more than one in five Black
to Black students, private individuals
oppression.
The
provided
schools operating in the South by 1928.
stepped in to bridge the gap.
Most
donations to universities, museums,
Notable alumni include Congressman
Americans have heard of businessmen
and for the building of YMCAs for
and civil rights leader John Lewis and
and
Black Americans.
poet-author Maya Angelou. OL
Because the public sector was
philanthropists
like
John
D.
a
tool Fund
But perhaps its
T O R E A D M O R E A B O U T R O S E N W A L D S C H O O L S , V I S I T H E R I TA G E . K Y. G O V / D O C U M E N T S / R O S E N W A L D S C H O O L S I N K Y. P D F. M U C H O F T H E I N F O R M AT I O N F R O M T H I S A R T I C L E C A N B E AT T R I B U T E D T O “ R O S E N W A L D S C H O O L S I N K E N T U C K Y: 1 9 1 7-1 9 3 2 ” B Y A L I C E S T Y N E T U R L E Y- A D A M S , A N D P R E P A R E D F O R T H E K E N T U C K Y H E R I TA G E C O U N C I L A N D T H E K E N T U C K Y A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N H E R I TA G E C O M M I S S I O N .
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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50
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
THE FIXER UPPER ON LOCUST STREET p. 52
SENIOR LIVING: THE VALUE OF ASKING FOR HELP p. 58
→
LIFESTYLE
Photo by
AP IMAGERY
→
TH E N E W TO N S ’ FAVO R I T E PA R T O F TH E I R H O M E WAS TH E H U G E FR O N T P OR C H . “ I T WAS A N E N T E R TA I NM E NT S PAC E FO R G U ESTS AN D A L LOW E D U S TO S H A R E M A NY MEMO R I ES . I T WAS TH E PA R T O F T H E H OUS E T H AT T R U LY B ECA M E ‘ H O M E .’ ”
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
51
Lifestyle H O M E
→
H AN DS D OW N , T H E NE W TO N S ’ L E AST FAVO RI T E S PAC E WAS T H E F OY E R A FT E R JASON HA D A T R AG I C ACCI D E NT D U R I NG A R E NOVAT I ON P R OJ ECT. T H E O RI G I N A L F OY ER H A D A WA L L T H AT D IV I D E D IT I N H A L F B ECAU S E T H E H O U S E HA D B E E N T WO A PA R T M E NTS AT SOM E T I M E I N I TS PAST. T HE NE WTONS D EC I DE D TO R EMOV E A D O O R A N D R ESTO RE D T H E S PAC E TO A S I N GL E L A RG E FOY E R . “ I N T HE FOY E R WE WA NT E D A B OOKSHE LF WI T H A TA P E R E D COLU M N. W H I L E C U T T I N G T H E PAN E L S TO E NC LO S E T H E C O LU M N , T H E PA N E L J U M P E D O N T H E TA B LE SAW. I N A N AT T E M P T TO ST E A DY I T, I M OV E D M Y LE FT HA ND TOO C LO S E TO T H E SAW. ” JAS O N’S I ND E X FI NGE R WAS M A N GL E D B U T WAS SAV E D. U N FOR T U NAT E LY, A B OU T HA LF OF HI S M I D D LE FI NG E R HA D TO B E A M P U TAT E D. “ DE F I N I T E LY N OT M Y P R O U D EST DAY, BU T I H AV E B EC O M E M U C H SA F E R H AV IN G G ONE T HR OU G H T HI S, ” JASON SA I D.
The Fixer Upper on Locust Street Written by A S H L E Y W E D D I N G Photos by A P I M A G E R Y
JASON AND JESSE NEWTON PURCHASED THEIR HOME AT 1302 LOCUST STREET FIVE YE ARS AGO WITH THE INTENTION OF RENOVATING IT. JASON, A PHARMACIST, AND JESSE, A NURSE, HAVE THREE KIDS AND RELOCATED TO OWENSBORO FROM LOUISVILLE FOR JASON’S WORK .
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
T HE M AST E R SU I T E A ND B AT H WAS T HE NE WTON S ’ FAVO RI T E P R OJ ECT. “ I T WAS A HU G E FA M I LY A FFA I R , ” JASO N SA I D. “O U R SON HA D HE LP E D ON M A NY P R OJ ECTS, B U T HE TRU LY BEG A N TO A P P R ECI AT E T HE P R OCESS OF R E M OD E LI NG A N O L DE R H O ME D U R I NG T HI S P R OJ ECT. D U R I NG T HI S P R OJ ECT H E WAS A BL E TO TA K E SOM E OF T HE SK I LLS T HAT HE HA D LE A R NED A N D C RE AT E D A B E AU T I FU LLY T I LE D SHOWE R . ” T HE T WO A R E V E RY A P P REC I AT I V E OF T HE I R SON, I N HE LP I NG TO CR E AT E A P L ACE TO W I N D DOW N A FT E R A LONG DAY A ND E NJ OY J ESSE ’S LOV E OF H O U S E P L A N TS .
→
“We had purchased a nice new ‘cookie
“Nearly
every
part
of
the
house
was
cutter’ house when we moved to Owensboro,
remodeled in some aspect,” Jason said. “Our
but quickly realized that it didn’t fit either
goal was to add as many modern amenities
of our personalities,” Jason said. “Jesse
as we could while maintaining the charm and
definitely has an eye for design and my
beauty of a house.”
strength is in figuring out the technicalities.
The house definitely had good bones but
two bookshelves into floor to ceiling custom
was in definite need of some updating. We
built-ins, refinished the fireplace and ceiling
knew immediately that it was going to be a
and converted the original pocket doors to
lot of work, but it was going to be our next
barn style doors. They updated the kitchen
challenge.”
with modern appliances and updated the
cabinets
Despite only taking on smaller aesthetic
In the living room, the Newtons converted
and
countertops
with
modern
projects in previous homes, the Newtons
materials. They also converted an office
were ready to tackle the large projects this
space and part of the hallway upstairs into a
home would require. Jason said that when
modern master bedroom suite.
moving into the home, the owner of the
moving company jokingly asked if they had
budget, but we weren’t always the best with
seen the home, built in 1915, before they
sticking to one project at a time,” Jason
purchased it.
said. “There was a lot of time where we had
multiple projects going at one time and
Over the next several months, the Newtons
got to work.
“We were living in the house and on a
we learned that this was not good for us. It
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
53
Lifestyle H O M E
WHE N J ESSE FI R ST WA LK E D I NTO T HE HOU SE , SHE FE LL I N LOV E WI T H T HE HU G E P OCK E T D OOR S T HAT SE PA R AT E D T HE D I NI NG R OOM FR OM T HE LI V I NG R OOM A ND FOY E R . “ WE K NE W T HAT R EG A R D LESS OF HOW WE U P DAT E D T HE HOU SE WE WOU LD HAV E TO I NCOR P OR AT E T HOSE D OOR S SOM E HOW, ” JASON SA I D. “ I N T HE P R OCESS OF P U T T I NG I N NE W FLOOR S WE HA D TO TA K E T HE P OCK E T D OOR S OU T. U NFOR T U NAT E LY, WHI LE D OI NG T HI S T HE OR I G I NA L HA R D WA R E WAS DA M AG E D. WE WE R E U NA B LE TO FI ND A NYONE WHO WA NT E D TO T RY A ND FI X 100 -Y E A R -OLD P OCK E T D OOR HA R D WA R E . ” B U T A Q U I CK P L A N B WAS FOR M E D, A ND T HE NE WTONS D ECI D E D TO R E U SE T HE D OOR S I N A T R E NDY “ B A R N D OOR ” ST Y LE . “ WE T HI NK T HI S T U R NE D OU T G R E AT, B ECAU SE WE WE R E A B LE TO K E E P T HE M AS A M A J OR A EST HE T I C FOCA L P OI NT FR OM E V E RY R OOM ON OU R M A I N FLOOR , ” JASON SA I D.
→
definitely increased our stress.”
modernizing it but keeping a mid-
Clemens through the process of
Although
century modern style.”
selling their family home.
made their home on Locust their
“Ryan made it happen,” said
own, transforming every square
their time on Locust Street, Jason
Randy
inch into exactly what they wanted,
says there are many. First, they
professional and listened to our
they ultimately decided it was time
will not take on as many projects at
concerns. This was an emotional
for a change and put the house on
once.
process for all of us.”
the market earlier this year. The
In less than three days, Ryan
house sold in record time and the
houses few things go exactly to
helped
Newtons are excited to take on their
plan,” Jason said. “A lot of the
multiple
next project.
completed projects were not plan
accept an offer for over asking price.
B’s, but sometimes plan C’s or D’s.”
“During
the
the
Newtons
renovation
truly
we
had decided that the next house
As far as lessons learned from
“We also learned that with old
Clemens.
the
“He
Clemens
offers
and
was
very
navigate eventually
Ryan has grown his real estate
team to include his wife, business
we purchased wouldn’t be as old
ABOUT THE RE ALTOR
but still need renovating,” Jason
Ryan Rutman has been selling
Chivonne,
said. “Our ‘new’ house was built
homes in Owensboro for over 13
Stephanie Hardesty and Katie Drab.
in the ‘50s and we’re looking to
years. He was honored to help the
The Ryan Rutman Real Estate Group
54
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
partner,
and as
fellow well
as
Realtor, Realtors
is available to help both buyers and sellers navigate the current real estate market. For them, it’s not about the houses, but about the relationships formed along the way.
Are you looking to buy or sell a home? Contact the
Ryan Rutman Real Estate Group today! OL
270-315-7464 • WWW.RYANRUTMAN.COM Remax Professional Realty Group
BEFORE RENOVATIONS
4333 Springhill Drive #102, Owensboro, KY 42303
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
SPONSORED CONTENT
W H AT A R E D E N TA L I M P L A N T S ? Dental implants are the closest you can get to healthy, natural teeth. They allow you to live the way you want to – confidently eating, smiling, laughing, talking, kissing and enjoying all of your everyday activities without worrying about your teeth.Think of dental implants as artificial tooth roots, similar in shape to screws. When dental implants are placed in your jawbone, they bond with your natural bone. They become a sturdy base for supporting one or more artificial teeth, called crowns. If you are missing a tooth, and would like to consider dental implants, surgical consultations including 3D x-ray are always free at Bluegrass Dental.
W H AT K I N D O F T O O T H PA S T E S H O U L D I USE?
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 and Dr. Shawn Stringer At Bluegrass Dental
You should choose a toothpaste that can help you the most for your individual mouth. For example, if you are very prone to tooth decay, I would recommend that you use a toothpaste with sodium fluoride (an anticavity ingredient) to help prevent rapid decay. If you are prone to rapid plaque buildup or tartar, I would recommend a tartar control toothpaste. Your dentist or hygienist can help you find the toothpaste with a property that will be most beneficial to you. Also, if you use a mouthwash, be sure to check the ingredients to see if it has an anti-cavity active ingredient, as mouthwashes without this ingredient are not effective in preventing tooth decay.
D O E S W H I T E N I N G T O O T H PA S T E W O R K ? Whitening toothpastes have limited whitening abilities. They typically only remove the most superficial surface stains and can sometimes be made of abrasive materials that are harsh on enamel. Whitening trays or in-office whitening procedures are the fastest, most effective, and safest way to whiten teeth. At Bluegrass Dental, we value patients who take excellent care of their oral health, so with a perfect, regular check ups, we offer free professional whitening for our patients to incentivize them to keep their mouth healthy.
W H Y D O I H AV E S E N S I T I V E T E E T H ? Mild sensitivity is mainly due to receding gums, teeth grinding during sleep and tiny fractures in teeth. You can try using a sensitivity toothpaste for athome care. If the sensitivity persists or worsens, it’s usually a sign of something more that needs attention. A visit to your general dentist office will help you get to the bottom of what is causing sensitivity. OL
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Lifestyle S E N I O R
LIVING
The Value of Asking for Help Written by D A N A P E V E L E R . Executive Director of Senior Living – Leisure Living Communities
F
all has always been my favorite
“Love, Mom.”
count on you to let them know when help
season of the year! Yes, I love the
Why is it that we’ll phone our family
is needed. I know of someone who went
colors, but that’s not why! Yes, I
and ask for a recipe, but we won’t call
without lights in her kitchen for months
love the crisp clear mornings, but that’s
and ask them for help?
The older we
because she was too frightened to tell
not why! I adore hayrides, fire pits, and
get, it seems the less we ask. If we are
her children she needed someone to help
weenie roasts, but that’s not why! I LOVE
going to successfully navigate the aging
change them. She was fearful they would
all my well-used, over-sized sweaters
years, we simply must learn to ask for
think she shouldn’t be alone anymore
filled with memories – and those aren’t
the help we need. When we were young,
and try to convince her to move.
even why! It’s the soup!
we didn’t hesitate to ask for help. One of
lack of lighting was a fall risk! She was
Don’t get me wrong, I still eat soup all
my grandson’s first phrases was, “help,
actually less independent by having poor
summer long – and dare anybody to tell
please.” Why are we so reluctant? It’s
lighting than had she just asked for the
me just because it’s 100 degrees outside
likely because we don’t want to appear
help.
and humidity is 85% that soup is the
helpless. We don’t want to risk our family
wrong choice. It’s making a big pot of
thinking we can’t live independently
something we can all learn to master.
potato soup using Mom’s recipe. A recipe
anymore, or maybe we just don’t want to
It doesn’t have to be that we only ask
stained from spills, has ingredients
be a burden to others.
our loved ones, though. Can’t get down
crossed out, and portions added over the
Realize, though, that it is a gift of
on the floor anymore to clean out your
years – an emailed recipe that ends in
peace of mind when they know they can
cabinets, scrub your tub, clean your
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Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
The
Knowing when to ask for help is
baseboards – see what it would cost to
your local YMCA that offer senior-
spaces causing a fall. I recently stepped
hire someone to clean for you!
specific programs.
Speak with your
on my own pant leg causing me to
agencies will offer specialty services,
physician; he or she may be able to refer
stumble into a wall, taking down a row of
like just cleaning windows or treatments.
you to a physical therapist to teach you
beautifully placed photos in the process.
If it’s in your budget, take advantage,
proper techniques crafted especially for
Explaining that to the check-out desk
you’ve earned it! Is cost a factor? There
your needs, and it’s covered by insurance!
at a medical office is NOT a comfortable
are many homecare services programs
conversation.
that are available.
Reach out to your
of the greatest factors influencing falls
physician’s office or ask your local senior
is an overall lack of confidence. Boston
center for agency information.
University estimates that up to 55%
Hiring a lawn care service after years
of older adults are impacted by a fear
of a perfectly manicured lawn is not a sin.
of falling. Your local Area Agencies on
It may seem like you’re throwing money
Aging and healthcare providers can
away, but if it keeps you from planting
direct you to classes in the area that
your face instead of your petunias, it’s
can address that, and work with you to
well worth the investment!
restore confidence.
Many
Don’t worry – you may hear “no” a
lot from people you ask.
Again, we seldom admit it, but one
Some tips I know you hear often is
That’s okay!
to remove throw rugs. If you can’t part
The point is, know that
with them, at least make sure they have
you’re investing in your independence by
non-skid backs and are intact, free of any
asking for the help you need.
pieces that can roll up and cause you to
Keep asking.
Speaking
of
let’s
trip. Look at your carpet and make sure
I actually fell off my
there are no raised areas. Carpet stores
own shoes last Tuesday. After wearing
can provide you with resources to have
sneakers for a year because of plantar
your carpets stretched and properly put
fasciitis and surgery, I got cocky and
back into place.
wore wedges.
Turns out my balance
A little wobbly stepping up that
is not what it used to be! Always wear
first step out of your garage? Yep, me
shoes appropriate to the activity in which
too.
you’re engaging.
have someone, if not yourself, install
handrails.
talk about falls.
independence,
I’ve noticed that my legs are weaker
Stop using that doorframe, and
Don’t be stubborn – use your assistive
devices. It does no one any good if you leave your walker at the kitchen table while you’re at the sink washing dishes! Don’t forget that your glasses are an assistive device that need updating from time to time, too. Impaired vision can greatly contribute to a fall!
Lastly, review your medications with
your pharmacist or physician to discuss any that may pose a fall risk. Let them instruct you on the best way to take your medications to reduce your risk.
If you do happen to fall, just make
sure you take the time to assess your injuries before moving. Crawl to a chair if possible, and gently try and lift yourself from the floor. A medical alert system, or even a watch that senses when a fall has occurred then calls emergency services for you, may be some items to invest in. There’s always that little tip of carrying your cell phone on you at all times. At least you’d have it close to you should
than when I was in my 30’s. Some of that
is due to losing muscle mass over the
at pathways should you need to get up
you need it.
years, but some of it is lack of strength
during the night. Ensure your overhead
and balance training, plain and simple!
lighting is adequate. Have a pet you let
batch of soup, or one of your favorite
If you don’t like to exercise, that’s fine!
outside? Install dusk till dawn or motion
recipes with loved ones, use the time
Find something that you do enjoy. Yoga
sensor lighting.
to have a conversation about all the
and Tai Chi, as well as using resistance
Ensure your clothing fits. Believe it
ingredients that go into you staying as
exercises really help to restore balance
or not, baggy or loose clothing can wrap
independent as possible and just how
and strength.
around ankles and legs or get hung in
they can help! OL
There are facilities, like
Improve lighting. Install nightlights
This fall, while you’re making up a
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
59
SPONSORED CONTENT
limb, his quality of life and mobility
months, healed within 10 weeks.
Vascular Disease Awareness Month
improved greatly thereafter.
Owensboro Medical Practice is
Cases like John’s are common at
the only privately owned medical
VVP clinic. Peripheral Arterial Disease
center in Owensboro that provides
(PAD) is a slow and progressive
comprehensive care for PAD, Venous
circulatory
disease as well as unhealing and
ast November, a 54-year-old
misdiagnosed, resulting in Critical
VORA VEIN AND PAD CLINIC
L
narrowed
problem arteries
in
which
reduce
blood
flow to your limbs, and your legs or arms don’t receive adequate blood flow, causing symptoms like leg pain, discoloration, numbness etc.
John was facing the one of the worst predicaments of his life.
His doctors had just informed him that his diabetic foot ulcer was
Patients suffering from PAD are often Limb Ischemia (CLI), and then told that amputation is their only option. PAD, its treatment and prevention of associated complications, such as
chronic wounds, thanks to the onsite diagnostics clinic and the Officebased Cath Lab being under the same roof as the clinics.
In the last 20 years of Owensboro
Medical Practice, Dr. Vora and his team of medical providers, nurses and techs have helped thousands of patients with mild to severe symptoms of PAD and saved multiple
limb amputation, are a special area of
limbs from amputation. Not only do
focus for VVP clinic.
they have experience in treating a
Leg pain may also be a symptom
variety of venous and artery diseases,
of Vein Disease. At VVP clinic, they
but they also continue to add latest
Kishor Vora at Vora Vein and PAD
are well-equipped to treat varied
skills
(VVP) clinic for his interventional
types of severe venous diseases
repertoire of expertise offered.
expertise.
untreatable, and they would need to amputate his leg. As a last resort, mere days before his scheduled amputation,
John
consulted
Dr.
and
technologies
to
their
including superficial vein disease work-
(Varicose veins or Spider veins),
up revealed that calcified plaque
tors, Endocrinologists, Orthopedics,
or a deeper vein disease (DVT and
blocking
is
Podiatrist, Nephrologists, Interven-
venous insufficiency). Sometimes,
from
tionists, and Surgeons are working
superficial vein disease may indicate
healing. So, Dr. Vora performed
an underlying deeper vein issue or
together to accelerate wound heal-
an Atherectomy procedure in his
chronic venous insufficiency.
office-based Cath Lab, removed the
In one such case, a 70-year-
blockage using a specialized device,
old Judith visited VWHC for her
and opened the artery to improve
injured
his blood circulation. Soon, his ulcer
treatments earlier, it wouldn’t heal
started healing quicker and better
for months. At VWHC, as part of a
with specialized care from Vora
diagnostic work-up, Dr. Vora ordered
Wound
(VWHC),
a Venous Ultrasound for her legs,
which is also a part of Dr. Vora’s
and immediately found the culprit.
Owensboro Medical Practice.
The valves in Judith’s veins had
Having the Vein and PAD clinic,
become weak, impacting the blood
you have leg pain, numbness or other
Diagnostics center, Cath Lab and
flow to the feet. He performed a
symptoms, don’t dismiss them as a
Wound Care clinic all under the same
special Venous Closure procedure on
normal part of aging. Call Vora Vein
roof proved to be of tremendous
Judith’s veins and started her wound
and PAD Clinic at 270-683-8672 and
advantage for John. Not only was
healing program. Judith’s trauma
make an appointment now! OL
he able to avoid amputation of a
wound, which hadn’t healed in many
(Names of the patients changed to protect their identity.)
A
thorough John’s
preventing
60
the
Healing
diagnostic limb foot
artery ulcer
Center
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
ankle.
Despite
receiving
All over the US, Primary Care Doc-
ing, prevent amputation, and improve quality of life for patients. So, Dr. Vora affirms that he would love to work with other specialists to ensure holistic care for a patient.
VVP clinic accepts referrals from
other physicians. They also accept self-referrals
from
individuals
who want a second opinion or have concerns with their symptoms. If
S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 Owensboro Living
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62
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
RECIPE: SMOKED BEEF BRISKET p. 66
WHAT WE’RE EATING NOW: FOOD TRUCKS p. 70
RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: GRAMPS COFFEE & DONUTS p. 72
→
Photo by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
F L AVO R
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Flavor R E C I P E I T ’ S FA L L Y ’A L L !
Autumn Baked Apples Article and photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
INGREDIENTS: 5 medium-sized apples 1 1/2 cups rolled oats 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans (replace with more oats if you don’t want nuts) 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon Salt to taste 1 stick butter, melted optional: vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce for toppings
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F 2. Core each apple, leaving the bottom intact. Use a melon baller to scoop out a cavity in the interior of the apple (optional - cut off the top of the apple before coring to bake alongside as a garnish when finished)
3. Stir the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, salt, and butter in a bowl until combined. You can also optionally stir in some diced apple bits that you scooped out earlier for a more intense apple flavor!
4. Stuff each apple with the oat mixture and place on a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, before uncovering and baking an additional 15 minutes (or until apples are soft and bubbly and the filling is a golden brown).
5. Serve warm (I recommend covering with caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream!) OL
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Flavor R E C I P E
Smoked Beef Brisket Recipe and Photos by J A M I E A L E X A N D E R
66
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
T
ypically when you browse through
section
of
the
“Flavor”
Owensboro
Living
Magazine, you see straight-tothe-point recipes from me. I had to mix things up this issue because smoked brisket is so much more than a simple recipe, it’s an entire process. Not only is it intimidating because it’s a large, expensive cut of meat, but there are also hundreds of different
opinions
about
the
methods used to get the perfect end result. You’ll quickly learn that people get very passionate about the way they perfect their smoked brisket, but I think the best way to learn what works best for you is to experiment with different methods until you find your favorite. The process that I’m sharing is what I did for my
TOOLS YOU’LL NEED:
THE PROCESS: Select Your Brisket.
Smoker. It’s important that your smoker
I think this is by far the most
can hold a steady temperature!
important step in smoking a brisket. If the meat that you start
Meat Thermometer. Any will do, but I use one that has a wireless monitor and dual probe (mostly because I can’t always trust the thermometer attached to my smoker). My thermometer will tell me the internal meat temperature and the temperature of the smoker without me having to touch the smoker at all. Seasoning. You
can
experiment
however
you’d like here, but for your first brisket I recommend keeping it simple: salt & pepper. I also learned that a bit of garlic powder fits my personal taste! Butcher Paper. is
another
out with isn’t great quality, then why would the finished product be any different? Owensboro is so lucky to have amazing local farms like Hill View Farms Meats. When I was picking out my first brisket, Jim Gilles of Hill View Farms Meats was there to point me in the right direction. He was able to tell me the best size for the crowd I was serving, taught me about the “packer” cut of meat (meaning it has both the point and flat which is best for smoking), and gave me tons of tips for the entire process. He found me a 12lb brisket with beautiful marbling and a nice
very first time I smoked a brisket,
This
controversial
layer of fat, and it ended up being
and I haven’t strayed far since
one. Some people don’t wrap the
perfect for what I needed. Instead
(even if there are parts of my
brisket at all, and others use foil.
of trying to give tips for picking
process that might make other
Make sure to try them all and find
out the best brisket, I think the
meat-smoking-enthusiasts
what you love!
best piece of advice I can give
scoff). This method is as simple
Lots of time.
would be to go to Hill View Farms Meats and ask the local experts!
as can be, and each time I follow
Okay, this isn’t actually a tool,
it I end up with juicy, tender meat
but prepare yourself. My first
that everyone loves (if I’m nice
brisket was 12lbs and took about
Make sure you use a very sharp
enough to share).
12 hours.
knife and trim while the meat
Trim Your Brisket.
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Flavor R E C I P E is still cold (it makes it easier
of cherry mixed in. The important
part). This could take another
to
don’t
thing is to have consistent heat
5-8 hours!
trim their meat at all, and you
throughout the entire process,
definitely want to make sure that
and a steady flow of thin blue
you don’t overdo it. As a general
smoke. It’s difficult to estimate
rule, you can leave about 1/4 inch
an exact time that the process
of fat. The softer fat is what will
will take. After preheating my
render and give your brisket a
smoker to 225 degrees F, I’ll
delicious flavor, moisture, and
place the brisket on the smoker
texture. Harder fats may prevent
(with the thicker point end facing
seasoning
amazing
the heat source), close the lid and
smoke flavor from sinking into
let it smoke until the internal
the meat itself. If you notice a
thermometer reads 165 Degrees
thick, hard membrane of fat
F. It should take about eight
located where the point meets
hours (although the second time
the flat, this is called a deckle and
I hit what’s known as a “stall”
it can be removed with a smaller
and it took closer to ten hours to
knife. Sometimes the deckle is
reach 165! If this happens to you,
removed in processing - this is
there are a lot of resources online
another great question when you
that can help you beat the stall).
cut).
Many
and
people
that
head to Hill View Farms to pick out your meat! For your very first brisket, I recommend being very light with your trimming - there are tons of step-by-step videos that can walk you through it! Season Your Brisket.
Let your Brisket Rest! This is so important and allows all the delicious juices to settle into the meat and brings it to the perfect slicing temperature.
Wrap your Brisket. Once the brisket gets to an internal temperature of 165, I recommend wrapping it. In my opinion this really helps you get your juicy flavor and delicious bark. I loved the result of using
Again, feel free to experiment
peach butcher paper, but it’s
however you’d like here. I keep
I leave it wrapped in the paper
common to use foil as well.
it simple with salt, pepper, and
Fold the brisket edge over edge,
and set it on a cutting board for
garlic powder (which I added for
making sure it is completely
my own personal taste). Rub a
sealed. Then place it back in the
thick, even layer of your mixed seasonings over the entire piece of meat (if it feels like you’re putting too much seasoning on it, I promise you aren’t!) Smoke your Brisket!
smoker with the seam side down (so the weight of the brisket keeps the paper wrapped tight).
an hour - this will be DIFFICULT because it is going to smell amazing! Slice and Serve your Brisket. Make sure to slice against the grain with a sharp knife! This
Finish Smoking your Brisket. Maintain the heat at 225 and
is something else that Hill View
continue
your
Farms Meats can give you advice
reaches
on if you’re unsure what this
cooking
until
Use a nice hardwood in your
internal
temperature
smoker! I used oak with just a bit
203 degrees F (in the thickest
means. OL
Don’t forget to go to Hill View Farms Meats for a great selection of briskets (sizes ranging from 6lbs to 17lbs). They sell full packer briskets, and also sell them as just flats or points. They will help you pick out your meat and assist with any questions you might have! Make sure to try different smoking methods, different woods, and different seasonings. Just keep experimenting until you find the best smoked brisket that fits your preference!
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Flavor D I S H
What we’re eating now Summer has wound down, but it’s still food truck season. Whether it’s a night-out on the riverfront, a corporate event, or a festival, you’re sure to be happy when you spot one of these mobile eateries and their mouth-watering fare.
Real Hacienda
Slick Back BBQ
A Tasty Bite of Europe
These aren’t the tacos that momma used to make. Replace that hard shell or flour tortilla with a fresh corn tortilla, stuff it with your choice of seasoned meat, and top with onion and cilantro. It may sound simple, but they’re more than satisfying. No table? No problem! These handheld tacos make the perfect food truck meal.
In a town known for its barbeque restaurants, Slick Back brings the “Q” to you with its smokehouse on wheels. Whether you’re a fan of pulled pork, mutton or brisket, you can’t go wrong with any of their appetizing barbecue sandwiches. And don’t forget to try their signature sauces!
Originally from Germany, owner Jo Husk brings a European favorite to Owensboro with crepes. These folded and filled pancakes are great for anyone on-the-go. Sweet varieties include strawberry-chocolate and banana with Nutella. And perhaps even more popular are the savory offerings, like the ham & cheese or black bean crepes. The food truck also offers salads and desserts like tiramisu and German apple pie.
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Flavor R E S T A U R A N T
SPOTLIGHT
A COFFEE, A DONUT AND A SMILE
Gramps brings their unique take on donuts to Downtown Written by M A R LY S M A S O N
G
ramps is
Coffee
new
to
Owensboro,
and
Donuts
the
scene
but
for
in the
customers who enter, the feeling is not one of entering a new place, but rather visiting an established neighborhood coffee shop.
Gramps’ owners Amy and Greg
Gilmore returned to Owensboro six
years
ago
after
living
in
Lexington for almost two decades. Amy had always wanted to start a bakery where she could not only serve customers but also develop relationships
with
those
who
entered.
That dream was on hold until
a family event pushed it to the forefront. Two years ago, Greg’s
72
dad Dennis was diagnosed with
perfect location that would include
bone cancer, and he was unable
character and charm, which they
to visit coffee shops, something
believe they found in their location
he would regularly do and where
at the corner of 4th and Frederica.
he would tell jokes, share stories,
meet and mentor people. During
be done with a unique twist, so we
this time, the Gilmores realized
updated the building to reflect the
that life was short and decided
past, but also add a modern take
they needed to make Amy’s dream
to the space, as well,” Greg said.
a reality.
“The building is over 100 years old
and used to house the Chamber of
The Gilmores searched for the
Owensboro Living S E P T E M B E R / / O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
“We want everything we do to
“We know that the building has seen and heard many stories over the years, and we wanted to keep that sense of history and add to its story with what Gramps is doing.”
GRAMPS, LOCATED AT 333 FREDERICA ST., IS OPEN TUESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY FROM 7 A.M. TO 3 P.M., FRIDAY FROM 7 A.M. TO 8 P.M., SATURDAY 7 A.M. TO 2 P.M. AND SUNDAY 7 A.M. TO NOON. IT IS CLOSED ON MONDAY. Commerce, the Red Cross, and other businesses over the years.”
The Gilmores also exposed some
of the original brick and restored the original tin ceiling. They added a long, high-top table and a seating area in the front for customers to spend time.
“We know that the building has
seen and heard many stories over the years, and we wanted to keep that sense of history and add to its story with what Gramps is doing,” Greg said. The name of the establishment honors Greg’s dad, Dennis. Gramps is the name the Gilmore’s youngest son bestowed on Dennis, and they felt this was the perfect name for a community coffee and donut shop. In fact, Gramps, who is in remission, can often be found greeting customers from inside the shop, but recently has been holding the door open for customers as most of the seats inside are taken.
“It’s been great seeing my dad --
who we jokingly call our mascot -being able to care for people as they come and go from the shop. He truly loves interacting with each person Photo by
JESSE JAMES AYERS
as they enter the door of Gramps,” Greg said. “He’s had a couple of people come up to him and share their stories of dealing with cancer... The funniest thing for my wife and I, however, is to see him take various ‘selfies’ with people, and we have jokingly said he could run for office soon with the amount of people he is
Photo by
ANGELA ANDERSON
talking with.” With
their
desire
to
create
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Flavor R E S T A U R A N T
SPOTLIGHT Photo by
JAMIE ALEXANDER
something unique with Gramps, the Gilmores are also bringing a different style of donuts to Owensboro. “There were already so many great bakeries in town with delicious traditional donuts, however, so we knew we wanted to celebrate what those businesses were doing while we created something different,” Greg said. “We believe having a light and flaky donut gives a different option from the rest of Owensboro.” And the names of the donuts are just as unique, including the Happy Camper, which is topped with a marshmallow glaze; Goodness Gracious, which is topped with a chocolate glaze with cookies and cream crumbles; and the Sap Tapper, which has an all-the-rage maple glaze. Some of the names are even related to Gramps’ corny jokes and sayings, according to Greg.
The coffee and espresso served at Gramps
is brewed from Onyx Coffee Lab beans, Gramps’ official roaster. Because Gramps uses a different type of dough, their donuts take longer to proof and cook than traditional donuts, Greg said. Amy is the more “hands-on” side of the ownership as Greg is also the Executive Pastor at Owensboro Christian Church.
“Our goal is to bring joy to people,” Greg
said. “We want people to experience a warm, friendly atmosphere each and every time they enter Gramps. We realize that life can be difficult at times, and our mission is to care for people in every situation. We believe a coffee, donut and a smiling face can go a long way Photo by
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JESSE JAMES AYERS
toward making a person’s day brighter.” OL
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Lifestyle H E A L T H
SPONSORED CONTENT
Owensboro Health announces recipients of 2022 Community Health Investments Grant Program O
wensboro Health announced its FY 2022 Community Health Investments Grant Program recipients virtually on Tuesday, Aug. 10. The Community Health Investments Grants provide in-kind and financial support for health, human services and arts projects and programming throughout the region. Funded projects and agencies being supported span a wide array of regional needs, from children in local school districts to aging adults and senior services. The grants are targeted at a number of community-specific identified health needs in addition to the health system’s four priority focus areas: Tobacco and Related Diseases; Older Adults and Aging; Arts in Healing; and Children and School Health. This year’s investments will support 35 projects throughout the region, for a total of $719,946.67. This year’s amount means Owensboro Health has invested more than $7 million in area agencies since 2011. Mark Marsh, Owensboro Health’s President and CEO, said these grants are a key element to Owensboro Health fulfilling its mission to heal the sick and to improve the health of the communities we serve. “These direct community investments allow us to reach beyond healthcare and impact other areas that are key determinants to the health of our patients and community,” Marsh said. “By working together with these community partners, we can accomplish even bigger goals to improve the health of our region. These partnerships are vital for a healthy and vibrant community.” Agencies and projects funded for the upcoming fiscal year are listed to the right and project descriptions can be found at OwensboroHealth.org/2022Grants.
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky
Bluegrass Music in PostCOVID Community Healing
Ensuring Access to Care During a Pandemic
CASA of the Ohio Valley
International Center
Change the Life of a Child
Emotional Wellness Program for Refugee Populations
“Pay What You Can” and Broadway
Junior Achievement of West Kentucky, Inc.
Senior Community Center of Owensboro-Daviess County, Inc.
City of Greenville Play for All Park Playground Renovation Project Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club (Henderson Unit) Health in Motion
JA Pathways toward Career and Life Success for K-12 Youth
Puzzle Pieces Enhancing Programs, Enriching Lives RiverPark Center
Weekend Accessible and Ready Meals (WARM) Program
Kentucky Kids on the Block
SOS International
Patient Outreach, Recovery, and Access to Care Project
34 Educational Puppetry Health Programs
Hospital Recycling Partner Program
Daniel Pitino Shelter
Kentucky Wesleyan College
The Center of OwensboroDaviess County, Inc.
Community Dental Clinic
DPS Community Resource Room
Reducing Tobacco Use within the KWC Campus Community
Daviess County Public Schools
Light of Chance, Inc.
The Umbrella Project-Breaking through the Pandemic Wall
Breathe Youth Arts Residency Program
Girls Inc. of Owensboro Daviess County
New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services
Healthy Futures Academy of Learning Green River District Health Department Daviess County Community Access Project (DCCAP) Green River Nicotine Reduction Program Safe Sleep for Babies H.L. Neblett Community Center Building Strong AfricanAmerican Families Hancock County Partners for a Healthy Community/ Youth, Inc. Tobacco Prevention & Nicotine Cessation in Hancock & Spencer Counties
The Adult Chair Owensboro Community and Technical College Foundation, Inc. Promoting Health Equity through Allied Health Workforce Diversity Initiative Owensboro Dance Theatre, Inc. Dance for Wellness 2022 Owensboro Regional Suicide Prevention Coalition Community Professional Education and Awareness Campaign Owensboro Symphony Music On Call
Targeted Case Management Program The Foundry Center for the Arts After School Arts – Henderson and Webster Counties The Kentucky Methodist Homes for Children Mary Kendall Campus The Fit Trail The Way of Rockport Indiana, Inc. Bringing Back Smiles Theatre Workshop of Owensboro Lights, Camera, Action! Tri-State Food Bank, Inc. Seed Funding for New Backpack Sites Wendell Foster Adaptive Climbing Wall and Indoor Therapy Gym
Contact: Somer Wilhite, Manager of Marketing - Communications, 270-685-7103 or Somer.Wilhite@OwensboroHealth.org. Owensboro Health is a nonprofit health system with a mission to heal the sick and to improve the health of the communities it serves in Kentucky and Indiana. The system includes Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, nationally recognized for design, architecture and engineering and the only hospital in the world to be designated a Signature Sanctuary by Audubon International; Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital; Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center; the Owensboro Health Medical Group comprised of over 250 providers in 30 locations; three outpatient Healthplex facilities, a certified medical fitness facility; and the Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center. For more information, visit OwensboroHealth.org.
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FROM THE ARCHIVES
One Hundred Years of Harvest Written by
L O R A W I M S AT T
A
lot of things have changed through the ages, but one thing that is likely never to change is the dependence of the human race upon the contributions of farmers. Practices and equipment have evolved, but farmers from one generation to the next have stood strong and solid in their commitment to providing food and nutrition that ensure our health, well-being and survival. One hundred years ago, farmers in the Owensboro/Daviess County region were looking forward to a good harvest of both corn and tobacco. Wildfires among tobacco patches were a localized annoyance, as were worms. Farmers battled the latter pest with something called “paris green.” This may not have been the best idea, as a quick Google search – something not available to our agricultural ancestors of 1921 – reveals that the substance is “a vivid green, highly toxic crystalline salt of copper and arsenic, used as a rodenticide and insecticide. Whether by accident or intentional, it was discovered that less than one-eighth of a teaspoon of the powder would kill a person if ingested.” Well, so much for that “bright outlook for good crops.” In the meantime, Daviess County farmers looked forward to a two-day conference designed for those who either owned or were contemplating the purchase of a tractor. The lectures were to feature lantern slides and
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films, whose subjects featured tractor care and operation, including adjustments, carburetors, ignition and lubrication. Those attending were promised a booklet titled “Helpful Hints to Tractor Owners.” Throughout 1921, the T.J. Turley Company – located at 223 Bolivar St. – published a series of advertisements in the local newspaper promoting various farm machines, including the Titan 10-20 kerosene tractor. One ad bragged that seven such machines had already been sold that spring. “Mr. Farmer,” the ad exhorted, “in order to make a margin of profit this year, it will be necessary for you to make radical cuts in your cost of production. This can be accomplished by a reduction in ‘men’ and ‘horse power,’ as these items are the largest in farm operating costs.”Not to be outdone, however, the Owensboro Milling Co. insisted that its Arab Horse & Mule Feed was worth “twice its price” in ensuring beasts of burden would retain their “strength, energy and pep.”
When not worrying about whether to work with mechanical or natural horsepower, local farmers could look forward to the enjoyment of the Daviess County Fair, which in 1921 offered prizes for both pigs and poultry, among other categories of competition. Ladies were invited to submit their canned goods for judging, and everyone was no doubt excited about the attractions and four – yes, four! – rides: A merry-go-round, Ferris wheel, whip and ocean waves. If that weren’t enough to lure the farmer and his family, there was the promise that “the grounds have been illuminated and the shows will be held night and day.” Farmers got together for more than fun and festivity, however. In February 1921, the Owensboro newspapers reported that a posse of 250 farmers joined a manhunt for one of two desperados who had shot and wounded Alfred Frey, “a prosperous farmer” known to “keep considerable money in his house.” The farmers
had all chipped in to collect $45 to bring in a bloodhound to track the escaped bandit, who left behind a dead partner when he made his getaway.
The year would end with a large headline
announcing that tobacco factors were taking on workers, which meant “money to spend for Christmas.”
How many workers, and who were they,
and how much money? The article states, “It is estimated that fully 750 persons, men and women, boys and girls, will have employment in the tobacco factories by Christmas.” Weekly wages would average “more than $15 a person,” with stemmers paid 65 cents per 100 pounds. Experienced hands could expect to make from $20 to $30 a week.
Who could resist?
A hundred years later, let us not resist the
opportunity to extend sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the farmers of today, who carry on the rich agricultural heritage of our community. May these hardworking heroes continue to be honored a hundred years from now, and forever. OL
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