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Trending FR O M T H E E D I TO R
I
EDITORIAL
New businesses are opening, fresh ideas
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
f you haven’t noticed, Henderson is growing, and we are here for it!
are taking shape and leaders are choosing to put down roots right here in Henderson. That excitement inspired the theme of this issue of Henderson Living: Henderson on the Rise. Inside, you’ll meet some of the people and businesses investing in our community and helping shape what comes next. We’re also excited to feature a special Home & Living section highlighting a local builder, real estate professionals and other home experts. Whether you’re looking to build, buy, sell, renovate or simply gather
EDITOR
Danielle Crafton Ryan Richardson PUBLISHERS
Jason Tanner Christy Chaney CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Holli Blanford Jordan & Callie Cessna Christy Chaney Jackson Hogg Rebecca Hopper, M.D. Greg Gibson Ellie Kellen Megan Mortis Ellen Redding Meghann Richardson Brooke Vorbeck
Do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to danielle.crafton@blackbox.media.
ADVERTISING
ideas, Henderson has local professionals ready to help.
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR
There’s a lot happening in our corner of Kentucky,
Henderson Living is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise.
and we think that’s worth celebrating. New faces, new places and new possibilities are adding to the momentum while preserving the hometown feel that makes Henderson special. Here’s to Henderson and what’s ahead!
Brock Quinton Wendall Hallam
For more information about advertising call 270-297-1600, or email brock.quinton@blackbox.media or wendall.hallam@blackbox.media.
DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY ON THE COVER
DANIELLE CRAFTON, EDITOR danielle.crafton@blackbox.media
Photo by Jesse Lykins GRAPHIC DESIGN
Andrea Roberson Monica Tapp
S TA F F P H O T O G R A P H E R
Jamie Plain
Fun Fact
Henderson’s Union Station, which opened in the early 1900s, once served as a bustling gateway to the community, with as many as 28 passenger trains stopping there each day at the height of World War II. Over the years, the station welcomed four men who would serve as U.S. president: Warren G. Harding, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mandy Sue Glaser Salina Pennington
DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Larry Tanner
To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 270-297-1600.
ONLINE
hendersonfamilymagazine.com issuu.com/tannerpublishing HendersonLiving HendersonLiving
2624-A New Hartford Rd. Owensboro, KY 42303 270-297-1600
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Contents
OCT/ NOV 2026 TRENDING
8
NEWSWORTHY Things we're talking about now
10 F A C E S O F H E N D E R S O N McManus Woodend
10 U P C O M I N G E V E N T S Our top can't miss events this season
LIFESTYLE
46
NEEDLEPOINT Weaving Community Together One Stitch at a Time
FLAVOR
50 R E C I P E
Savor the Season: Fall-inspired dishes full of warmth and flavor
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R E S TA U R A N T SPOTLIGHT Homer's Barbecue
FAMILY
58
CRAFT TIME Sponsored by Owensboro Museum of Fine Arts
60 W E L L N E S S
When the Holidays Feel Different
COMMUNITY: HENDERSON ON THE RISE
16 Cagey's
General Store Brings a Reed landmark back to life BY DANIELLE CRAFTON
18 Elevate
26 The Vault Coming Full Circle
BY DANIELLE CRAFTON
Raising People Up BY GREG GIBSON
BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON
Leadership Pursuing Excellence: HCHS Celebrates 50 Years BY MEGAN MORTIS
SPECIAL SECTION:
28 Ellis Park
Racing Reimagined: Balancing Heritage and Growth
22 HCHS New
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FROM OUR READERS Photos submitted to our Facebook Page
35 Home & Living
32 Rhythm River
Distillery
Brings Bourbon Distilling Back to Henderson After 100 Years
HIGHLIGHTING LOCAL BUSINESSES WHO SHOW JUST HOW MUCH CAN BE DREAMED, DESIGNED AND CREATED RIGHT HERE IN OUR COMMUNITY.
BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Trending NE W SWO R T H Y
2 Will You Be a Henderson Wingman?
Things we’re talking about now
Written by E L L I E K E L L E N Marketing Director, Henderson Tourist Commission This
summer,
the
Henderson
Tourist
Commission launched Flight School, our very own Henderson Hospitality Ambassador Program. No, Flight School won’t teach you to fly a plane. Think less “Top Gun,” more baby bird leaving the nest. It’s a crash course in all things Henderson, designed to help you see your hometown through a visitor’s eyes and become the person who always knows what to recommend. The program is online, self-paced and takes less than an hour to complete. We created it with our frontline workers in mind: hotel staff, state park employees, restaurant servers and others who interact with visitors daily. But you don’t have
1 Partnership of Women Awards $25,000 to Henderson County Organizations
Written by B R O O K E V O R B E C K Grants Chair for the Partnership of Women Partnership of Women is a community of women dedicated to transforming lives in Henderson County through high-impact, lifelong giving. The organization awarded $25,000 during its annual dinner Aug. 13 at Farmer and Frenchman Winery, with approximately 80 people in attendance. During the 2026 grant cycle, Partnership of Women received 16 applications from local nonprofits across Henderson County. After careful review, the grants committee narrowed the pool to six semifinalists: Chemo Buddies, New Genesis Jail Ministry, Riverview School, Baskett Community Fire Department, Henderson YMCA and the Women’s Addiction Recovery Manor. The committee conducted site visits at each organization before selecting three finalists to present at the annual dinner.The finalists presented their projects to Partnership of Women members, who voted to determine the recipient of the $15,000 grand prize. The Henderson YMCA was selected for its Inclusive Adaptive Wellness and Aquatic Accessibility Project, which will expand access to rehabilitation-focused and adaptive wellness opportunities through specialized equipment and accessibility improvements. Baskett Community Fire Department and Women’s Addiction Recovery Manor were each awarded $5,000 to support their ongoing work in the community.Those interested in learning more about Partnership of Women can connect with the organization through its Facebook page or email powhendersonky@gmail.com.
8 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
to work in the hospitality industry to become a Wingman. If you love Henderson, you’re invited. Here’s what a couple of our newest Wingmen took away from Flight School: “Speaking positively about Henderson and celebrating its history, culture and natural beauty helps build community pride and encourages others to see what makes our city so special.” — Nibby Priest “One of the biggest takeaways from Flight School is that every interaction is an opportunity to be a Wingman for our community. Becoming a premier destination isn’t just the responsibility of tourism leaders, businesses or event organizers. We can all contribute.” — Rachel Trout Since launching June 24, 72 people have started Flight School, and about 35 have officially earned their wings. And yes, there are perks. Graduates get a Bird Code Name, an Audubon print, a graduation certificate, The Flock lapel pin and a few exclusive Wingman extras along the way. We want Hendersonians to understand why tourism matters, feel like they’re part of it and know they have a role in the visitor experience. After all, who better to welcome people to Henderson than those who already call it home? Are you passionate about Henderson? Want to join the Henderson Hospitality Movement? Eager to become part of The Flock? Contact me, Ellie Kellen, at ellie@hendersonky.org to start your journey as a Henderson Hospitality Ambassador today!
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Paving the Way for a More Connected Henderson Written by H O L L I B L A N F O R D Public Relations Director, City of Henderson
There’s something special about seeing the community on two wheels. Whether it’s a ride through nature or a trip to a favorite destination, local trails give residents another way to enjoy Henderson and stay active. The city currently offers several opportunities for biking, including the Merrill Trail, Canoe Creek Nature Trail and the multiuse path along Wathen Lane. While each trail offers its own experience, together they are part of a larger vision for how Henderson can become a better-connected community. The city’s Parks, Recreation and Trails Master Plan outlines a 10-year vision for creating connections between neighborhoods, schools, recreational areas and other popular community destinations. Rather than viewing trails as isolated amenities, the plan considers how they can work together as a network, giving Henderson residents a way to move safely and conveniently throughout the community. Improving these connections can make it easier for people of all ages to access parks, enjoy Henderson’s natural spaces and incorporate walking and biking into their daily routines. The Canoe Creek Nature Trail is a great example of that vision. Located at the back of Newman Park, the 4.2-mile trail gives residents a place to walk or bike along the creek. Benches and a dedicated walking and biking trail provide families and individuals with a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors. The master plan proposes building on that foundation by creating a Canoe Creek Greenway. The proposed 1.8-mile greenway would follow Canoe Creek when possible, connecting the local YMCA and North Middle School with Community Park, Newman Park and beyond. The proposed path would provide additional space for pedestrians and cyclists, with recommendations for wayfinding signs, shaded seating and trailheads with parking. Together, these improvements could transform Canoe Creek into an important recreational corridor while creating greater connectivity throughout Henderson. The Merrill Trail is another important piece of Henderson’s expanding trail network. Located behind Walmart on Barrett Boulevard and extending toward Kimsey Lane, the trail provides a conveniently located recreational route for walkers and cyclists. The master plan also identifies opportunities to expand connectivity in this area, including connections with the Wathen Lane multiuse path. By providing space for people to walk and bike alongside the roadway, the path offers residents another way to safely travel through the community. As Henderson moves forward with the Parks, Recreation and Trails Master Plan, the goal is not simply to build more trails. It is to build on the foundation already in place and develop a network that makes it easier for residents to get outside, explore Henderson and connect with the places that are part of their everyday lives.
4 Henderson Positioned for Success
Written by J A C K S O N H O G G Marketing and Communications Specialist, Henderson Economic Development Over the past few years, Henderson, Kentucky, has seen what can happen when we all decide to pull in the same direction. Jobs begin to grow, new developments start to take shape, and families choose to build their futures here. None of this happens by accident. Established in 2020, Henderson Economic Development (HED) set out with a clear mission: to drive economic and job growth in Henderson County. Since then, HED has successfully attracted 884 new jobs, facilitated the development of 300 single-family homes and announced $710 million in capital investment in our community as of July 2026. While it’s easy to look at these numbers and think the job is done, that is far from the reality. Through strategic planning, HED has set out to achieve the following key milestones over the next five years: • 1,000 new and retained jobs • $800 million in new capital investment • 2,500 Henderson County students participating in at least one career awareness program • 200 new income-aligned housing units, with adjustments based on ongoing housing analysis To achieve these goals, our 2026-2031 campaign is organized around initiatives in Business Retention & Expansion, Workforce Development, and Industry Attraction & Recruitment. With support from more than 80 investors, our community partners and a spirit of collaboration, we are well-positioned to seize the opportunities of the next five years. We will strengthen our workforce pipeline, expand housing options, prepare industrial sites for development, recruit industrial, retail and commercial development, and continue building a vibrant community where people want to live and work. A rising tide lifts all ships, and right now in Henderson, the tide is rising.
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Trending FAC ES O F H E N D E RS O N
Faces OF Henderson
F R O M C AV E M A N TO P R O F E S S O R
McManus Woodend has been a GEICO Caveman, filmmaker, professor and world traveler. These days, one of his favorite roles is simply calling Henderson home. Written by D A N I E L L E C R A F T O N
/ / Photo by W I L D W I L D L I G H T P H O T O G R A P H Y: M A N D Y S U E G L A S E R
Upcoming Events
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CATES FARM CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH
S E P T. 1 2- N OV. 1 FR I DAYS , 4 - 8 P. M . | SAT U RDAYS , 1 0 A .M .- 8 P.M . S U NDAYS , N O O N - 8 P. M .
Celebrate fall at Cates Farm with a trip to the corn maze and pumpkin patch. Enjoy a seasonal outing perfect for families and fall fun.
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There probably aren’t many college professors who can say they once spent 25 straight hours covered in prosthetics and hair. Even fewer can say they landed a national advertising campaign after finding a casting notice online, flew to Baltimore on a sick day for an audition they weren’t entirely convinced was real, worked alongside Billie Jean King and the stars of “Deadliest Catch,” studied under legendary filmmakers in Switzerland, and eventually settled down in Henderson, Kentucky. But then again, there aren’t many people quite like McManus Woodend — or, as his résumé might suggest, Dr. Caveman. To Woodend’s slight surprise, and perhaps relief, his students at the University of Southern Indiana haven’t made that nickname stick. “These days, the real McManus Woodend has a Ph.D., so I get to throw that out in ultraformal settings,” he joked. “But I’m not that kind of doctor.” Today, Woodend is an assistant professor of digital media at USI, as well as a filmmaker, husband and father. But to millions of television viewers, his face — or at least a heavily transformed, considerably hairier version of it — is familiar for another reason. For a decade, Woodend was one of the actors behind GEICO’s famous Caveman. The
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HENDERSON LIONS CLUB ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL O CT. 3 - 4 10 A . M . - 4 P. M . JOHN JA M ES AU D U B ON STAT E PA R K
Spend the weekend browsing arts, crafts and handmade goods from vendors at this longtime Henderson fall tradition at John James Audubon State Park.
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LETHAL LIBRARY OCT. 5 | 6 -7 : 30 P. M . | HE ND E R SON COU NT Y P U BL I C LI B R A RY
True crime fans can spend the evening exploring mysteries and cases through podcasts, games, discussions, movies and other crime-themed activities. The program is designed for adults.
story of how a filmmaker from Florida ended up underneath all that hair before eventually making Henderson home is almost as entertaining as the commercials themselves. Before Henderson entered the picture, there was New York City, where Woodend met his wife, Kelli, while he was working on a movie. Kelli happened to have a pretty memorable job of her own: She was working with The Muppets. The two were engaged a year later, married at Lake Barkley the following year and eventually welcomed their son, Rohmer. Before Rohmer was born, the couple left New York and headed south. Woodend grew up on Florida’s East Coast in Satellite Beach, and he and Kelli lived in Melbourne and Sarasota before deciding to make another move, this time to Kelli’s hometown of Henderson. The decision was largely about family. They wanted Rohmer to have the opportunity to grow up near his many cousins and experience the closeness that comes with having extended family nearby. Of course, Henderson had another selling point that carried surprising weight with Woodend: Family Video. “My first impression of Henderson was one of excitement because, at the time, there was still a Family Video location,” he said. As a huge advocate for physical media, particularly movies, Woodend admits the video store
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FALL MARKET ON MAIN & CHILI COOKOFF O C T. 1 0 | 1 0 A .M .-2 P. M . | D OW N TOW N H E ND E RS O N
Celebrate fall in downtown Henderson with the annual Fall Market on Main & Chili Cook-Off. Spend the day shopping, dining and enjoying one of Henderson’s seasonal downtown traditions.
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was a legitimate perk of relocating. Family Video may be gone, “RIP,” as Woodend put it, but his appreciation for Henderson has only grown. He has watched the energy surrounding downtown revitalization and appreciates the city’s commitment to giving people reasons to come together, particularly through the festivals and community events that fill the warmer months. That sense of community, paired with a slower pace of life, has proven to be a good fit for someone whose career has taken him from movie sets and major cities to classrooms in Europe. “The way of life is much less chaotic,” Woodend said. At the same time, Henderson’s location means the family doesn’t have to give up the things they enjoy about larger cities. When they get the itch for a faster pace, a different culture or simply a weekend away, several major cities are close enough to make that possible. Woodend’s journey into acting was every bit as unconventional as the rest of his story. He performed in community theater from ages 9 to 13 while living in Michigan, but when his family moved back to Florida, acting essentially disappeared from his life. He wouldn’t return to it until his late 20s, when he was far more interested in making films from behind the camera than appearing in front of one.
Then, in 2008, he stumbled across a casting notice on the Virginia Film Office website while working at his alma mater, Full Sail University, with a headline that was difficult to scroll past: “Do You Wanna Be a Caveman?” Initially, he wondered whether the whole thing might be fake, but late on a Sunday night, he decided to submit anyway. Before noon the next morning, a casting agent called and asked whether he was serious about auditioning. Woodend figured that if she was serious enough to call, he was serious enough to go along with it. Her response quickly raised the stakes: “Great! I’ll see you in Baltimore on Wednesday!” There was one rather significant complication: Woodend was in Orlando. So he did what any aspiring Caveman apparently does. He took a sick day from work, bought a last-minute plane ticket and flew to Baltimore, making sure friends and family knew exactly where he was headed just in case this strange internet casting call ended with an abduction rather than an audition. He arrived safely, performed the entire audition in character and headed home, believing his brief adventure in Caveman casting was over. Four months later, the phone rang again. Woodend had been invited back for another round of auditions, this
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7 HALLOWEEN BASH
WOMEN IN BUSINESS SOIREE O C T. 1 5
Connect with local professionals during this special event celebrating women in Henderson’s business community.
UNITED WAY PANTOMIME SHOW OCT. 17 6 - 8 P. M . | P R ESTON A R TS CE NT E R
Enjoy an entertaining community performance while supporting United Way and its work throughout Henderson County. Fall Festival Fun for Everyone!
OCT. 30 | 3 -7 P.M. | CE NT R A L PA R K
Get ready for Halloween fun in downtown Henderson. Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of seasonal activities and Halloween festivities at Central Park.
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Trending FAC ES O F H E N D E RS O N time alongside six other actors. When he walked into the room and saw his competition — impeccably groomed and dressed like maître d’s at an upscale restaurant — Woodend remembers having a realization. “I either really have this or I really don’t.” A week later, he learned he really did. Woodend landed the role in August 2008, emerging from a pool that included more than 1,000 actors. What began as a casting notice he nearly dismissed as fake turned into a decade-long run, with Woodend portraying the GEICO Caveman through 2018. Getting the part, however, was only the beginning. Becoming the Caveman was a production all its own, and anyone who imagined Woodend simply threw on a wig and added some fake facial hair would be seriously underestimating the process. A typical transformation required about three hours in the makeup chair and included a full facial prosthetic, facial hair, a wig, and hair applied to his arms and hands. If a commercial called for exposed legs or a chest, the process could stretch to four hours or longer. At the end of the day, removing everything required another 90 minutes. The longest Woodend ever remained in full Caveman makeup was an incredible 25 hours. Helping create that
transformation was Woodend’s primary makeup artist, Tony Gardner, whose Hollywood résumé makes the story even better. Gardner’s work has included the “Child’s Play” franchise, Daft Punk’s iconic robot helmets and special makeup effects for Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” music video. The elaborate makeup was only one small piece of what went into producing the commercials. A spot viewers watched in a matter of seconds could involve more than 100 people working behind the scenes. “I was just one small part of a much larger creative engine,” Woodend said. Because Woodend already understood filmmaking from behind the camera, his involvement gradually extended beyond simply arriving on set and becoming the Caveman. As the GEICO team
Upcoming Events
8 FALL FESTIVAL
HOLY NAME SCHOOL O C T. 2 3 | 5 -1 0 P. M . & O C T. 24 | 1 1 A . M . -1 0 P. M .
Don’t miss Holy Name School’s upcoming Fall Festival! Enjoy Casey’s carnival rides, family bingo, exciting auctions, a spooky haunted house, delicious food, games, raffles and activities for all ages. Bring your family and friends for a weekend of fun, fellowship and lasting memories. Everyone is welcome — come celebrate with us!
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9 DOWNTOWN HENDERSON TRICKOR-TREAT
OCT. 30 | 3 - 5 P. M . | D OWNTOWN HE ND E R SON
Dress up the kids and head downtown for an afternoon of Halloween fun. Participating businesses and organizations will welcome families for costumes, candy and plenty of community fun.
became familiar with his production background, they included him earlier in the creative process and encouraged him to improvise during filming. Unofficially, Woodend said seven actors portrayed Cavemen in the commercials over the years, while three others appeared in the shortlived television series in 2007. Among his favorite experiences were commercials with tennis legend Billie Jean King and a History Channel spot titled “HR,” directed by Krista Liney. And sometimes, when the phone rang, it sent him somewhere entirely unexpected. One of his most memorable adventures came when he traveled to Alaska to film with the Hillstrand brothers from “Deadliest Catch.” What was supposed to be a relatively
DE LOS 10 DÍA MUERTOS
CELEBRATION OCT. 31 | 4 -7 P.M. CE NT R A L PA R K
Celebrate Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, during a community event honoring the traditions and culture surrounding the holiday.
relaxed five-day production was quickly condensed into a frantic two-day shoot as blizzards, avalanches and other forces of nature complicated nearly every plan. Despite the chaos, the “Deadliest Catch” campaign, created with writer, producer and director Don Cherel, remains one of Woodend’s favorites. By the time Woodend filmed his final Caveman commercial, his life and priorities had begun moving in a different direction. When he met Kelli, he was finishing his first feature film, “Rocksteppy,” while also nearing the end of his doctoral coursework. His years in New York had given him opportunities to work alongside actors and directors his teenage self never would have imagined meeting, but as his career evolved, his priorities began to shift. Filmmaking remained important, but completing his doctoral dissertation and embracing life as a father increasingly took center stage. Woodend earned his Ph.D. through The European Graduate School in Saas-Fee, Switzerland, an experience that allowed him to continue living and working in the United States while traveling to Europe each summer for classes. His professors included acclaimed filmmakers Terrence Malick and Wim Wenders, adding yet another unexpected chapter to
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HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE NOV. 6 -7 | PA R T IC IPAT IN G H E ND E R S O N BU S I N ESS ES
Kick off the holiday shopping season during Henderson’s Holiday Open House. Browse Christmas gifts, seasonal merchandise and holiday specials while supporting local businesses.
a career that had already taken him from behind the camera to national television. For someone who walked away from acting at 13 and didn’t return until his late 20s, Woodend had found himself on a path he never could have planned. That path continues today, although now some of his creative work is happening much closer to home. Recently, Woodend produced and appeared in “Only the Lord Will Set You Free,” a short film shot in Henderson that has been selected for the 2026 Nashville Film Festival. The project brings together two important parts of his life — his longtime passion for filmmaking and the community where he and Kelli chose to raise their family. Professionally, Woodend now spends his days helping the next generation of storytellers find their own creative paths as an assistant professor of digital media at the University of Southern Indiana. The role brings his years of experience as a filmmaker, performer and student of the craft into the classroom. In fall 2027, Woodend will oversee the new USI Film track as part of the revamped Communication & Media degree program. There is, however, at least one part of his background that probably doesn’t make it into the syllabus: Woodend comes from a family of singers. His sister spent 10 seasons as
12 N OV. 2 0 | PA R T I CI PAT I NG LOCA L PINK FRIDAY B U S I N ESS ES
Shop small before Black Friday during Pink Friday, a nationwide movement encouraging shoppers to support boutiques and locally owned businesses before the traditional holiday shopping rush. Discover unique gifts while supporting Henderson businesses.
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an opera singer with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, and while he may not have followed her onto the opera stage, Woodend says he can still hold his own at karaoke. Looking at Woodend’s résumé, Henderson might seem like an unexpected place for his story to land. Yet after years spent on movie sets, in major cities and traveling abroad, Henderson offered Woodend and his family something they were ready for — a slower pace without giving up a strong sense of community. It gave Rohmer the chance to grow up surrounded by cousins. It gave the family festivals, traditions and a community to enjoy together. In many ways, Henderson fits a life Woodend himself describes as “conventionally unconventional.” Millions of people may still recognize him as one of the faces behind the campaign that made “So easy a caveman could do it” part of pop culture. He still tends to let his hair and beard grow from time to time but always cuts it when the look gets a little too Cro-Magnon. These days, though, Woodend is more interested in the life he has built outside the character. The Caveman may have left his career in 2018, but Woodend is nowhere near his final scene. For this chapter, Henderson is home. Learn more about McManus Woodend and his work at www. mcmanuswoodend.com.
SHOP HENDERSON — LOCAL LOVE NOV. 27-28 I ND E P E ND E NCE B A NK , 76 S. G R E E N ST. B AG P I CKU P : NOV. 27, 9 A . M . - 6 P. M .
Shop local during Independence Bank’s Local Love weekend in partnership with the Henderson Chamber of Commerce. Shoppers can pick up a reusable bag filled with local discounts and a list of participating businesses while supplies last. Opportunities to win prizes will also be available throughout the event.
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Photo by W I L D W I L D L I G H T P H O T O G R A P H Y: M A N D Y S U E G L A S E R
Community
Henderson
Rise
ON THE
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Cagey’s General Store brings a Reed landmark back to life Written by D A N I E L L E C R A F T O N Photos by W I L D W I L D L I G H T P H O T O G R A P H Y:
M A N DY S U E G L A S E R
F
or generations, Cagey’s General Store has been part of daily life in the Reed
community. Nearly 90 years after opening, the eastern Henderson County landmark has reopened under new ownership following months of restoration after devastating flood damage. Located in the Beals community near Reed, the store is now owned by Ben and Jessi Bridges, who purchased the property in December 2025 with plans to preserve one of Henderson County’s longest-standing rural gathering places while preparing it for the future. The building was constructed in 1936 by J.E. Simmons and was one of three stores serving the area. Through the decades, it survived several
16 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
major floods while continuing to
the Bridges immediately began
the pound, ice, propane, tobacco
serve as a mercantile, community
cleaning, repairing and restoring
products, Cagey’s merchandise,
gathering place, deli and, at one
the nearly 90-year-old building.
old-fashioned
time, a gas station. As the other
Throughout
eventually, gasoline.
stores disappeared, it remained
they worked to preserve as many
the last store standing.
original
The business became widely known
as
Cagey’s
under
the
ownership of “Cagey” Bryant, earning
a
loyal
following
the
features
renovation, as
possible,
including the historic wood floors and
the
building’s
longtime
country store character.
for
While restoration continues,
its
strombolis
and
becoming
the deli has reopened, once again
a
destination
for
customers
serving
throughout Henderson County.
the
store’s
signature
strombolis and pizzas. The menu
In April 2025, the store closed
also includes cold cut sandwiches,
after flood damage and remained
burgers and hand-dipped Blue Bell
vacant for nearly nine months.
ice cream. Cagey’s is currently the
When
owned
only place in Henderson County
the store approached Ben and
where customers can get hand-
Jessi Bridges about purchasing
dipped Blue Bell ice cream.
the
family
that
candy
and,
“We plan to add new inventory each week as we continue stocking shelves
and
expanding
the
business based on the needs of the community,” Jessi Bridges said. “As
restoration
continues,
we hope Cagey’s General Store will once again serve as both a community gathering place and a
lasting
reminder
of
Reed’s
history,” Ben Bridges said. Whether
returning
for
a
favorite stromboli, stopping in for a scoop of hand-dipped Blue Bell
the property, the couple saw
The Bridges plan to continue
ice cream or discovering Cagey’s
an opportunity to preserve an
expanding the store’s offerings
for the first time, visitors can
important piece of Henderson
to better serve local residents and
expect a warm welcome from Ben
County history.
visitors. Future additions include
and Jessi Bridges at the historic
fishing licenses and bait, meat by
Reed landmark.
After purchasing the store,
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Raising People Up
Written by G R E G G I B S O N Photos by W I L D W I L D L I G H T P H O T O G R A P H Y: M A N D Y S U E G L A S E R
W
hen Julie Wischer dreams,
again finding herself in a role centered
she was truly passionate about. Her
she dreams big — 16,000
on people. In the early 2000s, Julie
father, Jerry, jokingly referred to her
square feet big. The former Hugh
moved to Cincinnati, where she served
as a “job hopper.”
Edward Sandefur Training Center, or
as director of membership services at
Then, in 2016, she began working
HESTC, has been rebranded as Elevate,
the Cincinnati Art Museum and later
at HESTC. For the past 10 years, Julie
a name meant to convey a simple
worked for the Athenaeum of Ohio.
has found her passion in working with
message: Its clients are important,
In 2004, she began working with
people with disabilities and creating
and the organization wants to help
Habitat for Humanity, helping build
pathways to greater independence.
lift them up. But we’re getting the
homes for underserved individuals
In December, she plans to open
cart before the horse. Julie’s journey
and families. In 2012, Julie became
a new regional disability resource
before Elevate prepared her to tackle
the public information officer for
center unlike any other in the state.
a project this big.
Henderson County Schools, where
Its purpose is ambitious: to create
Julie studied history and Russian
she helped communicate the district’s
life-changing
in college. After graduation, she
nickel tax initiative and build its social
help adults with disabilities discover
worked as a desk clerk at the Ramada
media presence.
their
opportunities
talents,
gain
that
real-world
Inn, where she discovered how much
There was a common thread
she enjoyed interacting with guests.
throughout those positions: Most
step
She later moved into membership
lasted about two years before Julie
independence
development for the Girl Scouts, once
moved on, still searching for the work
That’s a tall order for anyone to tackle,
18 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
skills, build lasting friendships and confidently
toward
and
greater
employment.
but Julie has rolled up her sleeves and is all in. The new Elevate Center will provide supportive housing designed to help individuals with disabilities live more independently. It will also offer work-ready learning opportunities to help individuals prepare for careers and receive support throughout their employment. In addition, Elevate plans
to
strengthen
community
partnerships by providing space for organizations that offer supportive services. The facility will include two large classrooms, a work-ready skills lab, library, laundry room, crafting studio, media room, kitchen and walkin pantry. It will also feature a dining room and multipurpose event space totaling more than 3,200 square feet that can be rented by the community for special events. The development will include 48 apartment units, with a mix of one- and two-bedroom
residences. All first-floor residences
supportive housing in Henderson
will be ADA-compliant.
is significant. There is a lack of
“The housing will create pathways to independence,” Julie said. The
need
for
permanent
housing options in the community for individuals with disabilities, and two major residential providers left the
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
19
Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E children who may not find success in
traditional
day
care
settings.
Homeless outreach will help connect individuals in shelters and others experiencing supportive
homelessness housing
with
opportunities.
The center will also provide space for
other
organizations
to
offer
community-based education, support groups, social clubs and additional services. And Julie and her team continue to dream big. A second phase is planned, along with a capital campaign to raise $6 million in 2027. The goal is to move the existing service center to a new location next to the apartments. This
September,
Julie
will
celebrate her 10th anniversary with Elevate. After years of searching for the work that inspired her, it seems area about a year ago. As a result, some
money management, coordination of
lifelong Henderson residents have
health care services and daily personal
had to move to Owensboro and other
care.
communities to receive supportive services.
Many
individuals
in
Life and work-ready learning opportunities
will
include
life
Henderson are also on waiting lists for
skills education, financial literacy,
traditional services and may be unable
stability
to maintain independence without
training, coping and social skills
additional support. Some struggle to
training, and traditional learning
remain housed, experiencing chronic
opportunities
or sporadic homelessness that can
speech,
handwriting
affect their physical, emotional and
thinking.
Supported
mental health.
services will include job discovery
Permanent supportive housing
and
education,
in
vocational
reading,
development,
and
math, critical
employment
supported
job
will offer a more holistic approach
placement and continued assistance
to independent living by creating
designed
to
help
individuals
a community of support on-site.
achieve
successful,
permanent
Individuals
employment.
will
have
access
to
Transportation
the former “job hopper” has found her place. “You
know,
it’s
hard
to
manufacture passion,” Julie said. The
people
surrounding
her
are proof that she is where she is supposed to be. She enjoys coming to work and interacting with clients. As a bus pulled up to drop them off one day, Julie greeted each person by name and welcomed them to work. Her faith also plays an important role in her approach to service. Julie credits her parents with instilling in her the importance of having a servant’s heart. Her quick wit and sense of humor are evident as she interacts with the people Elevate serves. Julie started this journey looking
supportive staff 24 hours a day, seven
services will supplement existing
days a week. Each resident will work
public transportation and offer on-
with a support professional to pursue
demand transportation for work,
personal and work-ready goals, build
medical appointments, shopping and
create a place where others can
a stable and successful life and reach
community events.
discover
for work she could be passionate about. A decade later, she is helping their
own
possibilities.
dreams that once may have seemed
Elevate also plans to offer after-
Elevate is designed to do exactly what
unattainable. The center’s residential
school services and summer programs
its new name suggests: raise people
services will provide person-centered
for
disabilities,
up and give them the opportunity to
planning, medication management,
providing
options
dream big, too.
20 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
children
with
additional
for
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
21
Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Pursuing Excellence H C H S C E L E B R AT E S 5 0 Y E A R S WITH NEW LEADERSHIP Written by M E G A N M O R T I S Director of Public Information for Henderson County Schools
T
Photos by W I L D W I L D L I G H T P H O T O G R A P H Y: M A N D Y S U E G L A S E R
his year marks a significant
filled with tradition, achievement and
for Christian Klaas, who is serving his
milestone
memories.
first year as HCHS principal. While
for
Henderson
County High School as the community
As we celebrate the past, we’re also
this is his first year in the school’s
celebrates 50 years since Henderson
looking ahead. With new leadership
top leadership role, Mr. Klaas is no
County’s city and county high schools
at the helm, Henderson County High
stranger to HCHS. This is his sixth
merged into one. For five decades,
School is entering its next chapter
year at the school and his 17th year in
HCHS has brought students, families,
with fresh ideas, new goals and a
education.
educators and the community together
vision for continued success.
under one school, creating a legacy
22 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
This year also marks a new chapter
I asked Mr. Klaas about his vision for HCHS, his goals for students
and staff, and what he hopes to
work with your school administrative
always thinking about how we can
accomplish as he helps lead the school
teams as well as time to learn from
improve our processes, systems and
into its next 50 years.
our district leaders.
procedures to better serve our school
What attracted you to this school and this community? I was attracted to this community because it has that small-town feel, and I absolutely love that all roads lead to Henderson County High School. This community has tremendous
Dr. Lawson always speaks about our core values and our history. It was impactful. At this particular leadership retreat, there was also a presenter on professional learning communities,
and
the
whole
I viewed my position as an assistant
coach! That dream came true.
principal. I could see the vision for the school district, and I could not wait to
to see firsthand the impact it has on
get my time at HCHS started.
What were your first impressions when you arrived?
Believe it or not, I wanted to be a high school history teacher and a
for the Colonels. It is really amazing
organizations.
What did you want to be when you were in high school?
experience really influenced the way
pride and shows unwavering support
our students, teams and different
community.
What do you hope students, parents and staff will come to know about you?
What does “Pursue Excellence” mean to you when it comes to academics, activities, relationships and school culture? Pursuing
excellence
simply
I am just a regular guy, and I
means we are trying to get better and
appreciate all their support along
be the best we can every single day.
I was extremely impressed by
the way. I know that I will make
It means not settling for yesterday’s
Henderson County Schools. One of
mistakes, but I will always be willing
results. It means helping teachers
the very first things I participated in
to listen and have conversations.
learn and get better so that students
was the district leadership retreat.
I really do try to view things from
can learn and grow. It means going
It provides some dedicated time to
all different perspectives, and I am
out on a limb to talk to someone new
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
23
Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
and learn something about a person
in these types of conversations, our
I do believe that students are already
you didn’t know before.
students won’t miss the big picture.
involved in shaping our future. We
When
it
comes
to
pursuing
How do you plan to build strong
excellence and school culture, I am
relationships with teachers and staff?
ambassadors, city ambassadors, class
going to quote Conner Mattingly: “It
I believe that it is important to
officers and various club officers who
is not one event, not one pep rally; it is
be a good listener, be approachable
what we do every single day.”
and be a good communicator. We
lead in our school and community on
have
organizations
like
student
a daily basis.
At HCHS, you do not have to
want to hold our staff and students to
look hard to see someone pursuing
high standards, but we want to make
excellence. It is happening in the
sure we show support and recognize
classrooms, the band room and at
growth and progress along the way.
practices. It is happening daily.
It is also my job to ensure their safety
I have worked in other school
and give them opportunities to grow
districts, and what sets Henderson
professionally.
apart is that on Fridays we wear
What role should parents and the broader community play in helping our students and school “Pursue Excellence”?
I think parents and the broader community
should
make
every
effort to be present and support our
How do you want students to be involved in shaping the direction and future of the school?
One thing I love about HCHS is
students through everything they do.
that when students get an idea, they
They should have conversations that
are not afraid to share it. Our school
reiterate that who you become is more
is for our students, and they should
important than what you accomplish.
most definitely be involved in shaping
Those
conversations
should
the future.
What do you think makes this school community special?
maroon!
What
I
mean
is
that
Henderson County High School is a place that unifies this town. I have a daughter who is in elementary school who knows the words to the HCHS fight song, not because I taught her, but because students from the high school go to elementary schools and teach them about what it means to be a Colonel.
remind our students that how they
I would like to get some kind of
We also have the luxury of
carry themselves, the values they live
student advisory committee together
an amazing career and technical
by and how they treat others are what
that meets regularly so I can share
education department and top-notch
truly define them. If our parents and
ideas with students and they can
community partners that provide
broader community can support us
share ideas with our leadership team.
our
24 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
students
with
extraordinary
opportunities on a daily basis. To put
next 50 years of pursuing excellence?
it simply, this community is invested
By continuing to learn about
in the success of our school and our
history and finding ways to celebrate
culture.
it. The courage it took 50 years
What’s one misconception people sometimes have about being a high school principal?
I would say one misconception
is that the job is all about student discipline and managing problems. But in reality, the job is really about building
relationships,
developing
people, creating a positive school culture and keeping people focused on the things we need to do to ensure student success.
ago to make the decision to merge the city and county schools was unprecedented. They are the people who laid the foundation for us today. We made our school theme this year #LiveYourLegacy. The way we honor that history is by not forgetting how we got here, but also doing everything we can to leave it better than we found it. We do that by not settling for anything that isn’t our very best every day.
and be a part of something bigger.
If you could give the graduating class one piece of advice, what would it be?
Keep chopping wood! The work
you do today is going to prepare you for tomorrow and the future. Stay focused on your purpose, take care of your people, do the daily work and trust that consistent effort will eventually create meaningful results. When students look back on their high school years, what do you hope they say about this school? I hope they remember their teachers who made an impact on
What is one thing you want every student who walks through these doors to feel?
their lives. I hope they remember the
Pride in themselves and pride
cared about each one of them, and I
you begin your first year as principal
in our school. We are not perfect,
hope they will say they are excited to
during
milestone,
but we strive to be. We strive to be a
send their own children to Henderson
how do you hope to honor our history
place where every student can find an
County High School.
while helping lead our school into its
opportunity, a club, a team or a friend
This year marks 50 years since our city and county high schools came together to form one high school. As this
important
opportunities they had as students at HCHS. I hope they remember that we
Go Colonels! Charge on!
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Coming Full Circle
Written by D A N I E L L E C R A F T O N Photo by S H A R I N S H A N K P H O T O G R A P H Y
26 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
A teaching job, a restaurant opportunity and a decision to stay. None of it was part of Ellada and Doros Hadjisavva’s plan when they left Cyprus for the United States more than three decades ago. They expected America to be temporary. Instead, Henderson became home, the place where they raised a family, took chances and began a business journey that would grow across the Tri-State. Now, 30 years later, they are bringing that experience back to where it all started and betting on Henderson’s next chapter. Ellada and Doros Hadjisavva never came to America intending to build a hospitality business. Doros arrived in the United States in 1992 to attend college in New Jersey with plans to return to Cyprus and pursue a career in banking. Ellada followed a year later, coming to Owensboro to attend Brescia University with plans to return home and teach. The couple already knew each other from Cyprus, where Doros attended high school with Ellada’s brother. They became engaged during Ellada’s junior year of college, and Doros moved to Kentucky in 1996 while waiting for her to graduate. They still planned to return to Cyprus, but sometimes the opportunities you do not plan for are the ones that change everything. While Ellada finished college, Doros took over Holiday House Restaurant in Henderson. In 1997, Ellada accepted a long-term substitute teaching position at Henderson County High School. Their first business was here. Their home was here. Although much of their entrepreneurial journey would eventually take them across the Ohio River, their roots remained firmly planted in Henderson. “Henderson embraced us from day one,” Ellada said. She remembers being young and homesick, far from family and trying to navigate life and business in a new country. She also remembers how the community welcomed them. Many of their customers had never traveled to Cyprus or met people from their culture, giving Ellada and Doros an opportunity to share part of where they came from through food, hospitality and hard work. “We were young. We had no experience, but we tried,” Ellada said. “We learned by doing and having hospitality as part of our DNA.” Learning by doing would become a theme throughout the next three decades. After Holiday House, Doros saw another opportunity. There was not a Greek restaurant in the region, so the couple decided to explore the idea in Evansville. One opportunity led to another, and their ventures over the years have included Holiday House Restaurant, Acropolis Restaurant, Acropolis Restaurant & Catering, Riverwalk, Acropolis Catering & Food Truck, Venue 812, The Vault and Acropolis Hospitality Group. A list of businesses, however, tells only part of their story. There were risks that paid off and others that did not. There were mistakes, challenges and moments when they had to change direction. Those experiences helped shape
the way they approach business and leadership today. “The biggest business lesson learned the last 30 years is to adapt and adjust with the times, to stay relevant and not be afraid to take risks,” Ellada said. “We made mistakes and failed, but we never gave up. We adapted, pivoted and tried again.” For Ellada and Doros, leadership has not meant always knowing the answer. It has meant being willing to take a chance, recognize when something is not working and keep moving forward. It has also meant understanding that they do not have to lead the same way. As husband and wife and business partners, the two have found success by leaning into their individual strengths. Ellada describes herself as the visionary and risk-taker, focusing on marketing and sales. Doros is the realist, she said, with an eye for accounting, numbers and operations. One sees what could be, while the other helps determine how to make it work. “We make a great team,” Doros said. “We recognize each other’s strengths.” Behind their businesses is something Ellada and Doros brought with them from Cyprus long before they owned a restaurant. Ellada describes it with the Greek word filotimo. There is not a simple English translation, but she describes it as meaning “to honor your friend.” “Filotimo is not taught to us Greeks,” Ellada said. “We are born with affection, generosity and hospitality. True hospitality is a way of life for us.” For the Hadjisavvas, hospitality extends beyond serving food, catering a wedding or operating an event venue. It is about making people feel welcome and building relationships, the same kind of welcome they experienced when they first arrived in Henderson. As their children grew and
started school, their connection to the community deepened. The couple once considered moving to Evansville to be closer to their restaurant, but Henderson continued to make sense for their family. By the time their children reached middle school, Ellada said there was no question where home was. “We live in Henderson but work in Evansville,” she said. “Kentucky is home.” Eventually, an opportunity emerged to bring more of their business home, too. Owning an event venue had been part of Ellada and Doros’ five-year plan. They were already looking at land in Henderson County with plans to build one when The Vault opened in downtown Henderson. The couple catered the first three weddings at the venue and immediately saw its potential. They told the owners that when they were ready to sell, they were interested. Then they waited. Two years later, the opportunity came. “The Vault is a dream come true for the Hadjisavvas,” Ellada and Doros said. The investment represented more than another addition to their hospitality business. Although the couple had lived in Henderson for decades, much of their business had been based across the river in Evansville. Other than their home, they had not owned real estate in Kentucky. “Investing in The Vault was a full-circle milestone for us,” Ellada said. “Thirty years after our first restaurant, we are back in town as business owners.” They are returning at a time when they believe Henderson is entering an important period of growth. Ellada and Doros see momentum building downtown and an opportunity for businesses like theirs to help strengthen it.
“Henderson’s downtown has so much potential,” Ellada said. “We are excited to be part of the movement and the growth and the bright future.” They envision The Vault as one piece of a larger Henderson experience. A wedding can bring outof-town guests who need hotel rooms. An event can lead visitors to local restaurants, downtown shops and the riverfront. Continued investment and bourbon tourism can give travelers even more reasons to stop and spend time in Henderson. “Our dream is to make The Vault and Henderson a destination for life’s special occasions, shopping, dining and bourbon tourism,” Ellada said. For Ellada and Doros, that vision represents a different stage of leadership. Three decades ago, they were young entrepreneurs trying to figure out how to make their first business work. Today, their experience gives them an opportunity not only to build another business, but also to contribute to the growth happening around them. “We hope to inspire others to invest in Henderson and raise their families here,” Ellada said. It is a fitting goal for a couple who never expected Henderson to become home. They came to America with degrees to earn and careers waiting for them back in Cyprus. Instead, a restaurant opportunity and a teaching job changed their plans. Henderson gave them a place to begin, and they spent the next three decades learning, adapting, taking risks and building a hospitality business that stretched across the Tri-State. Now, as Henderson continues to grow, Ellada and Doros are choosing to put their experience behind what comes next. If they could go back and speak to the young couple who arrived in America all those years ago, their advice would be simple: “Be yourselves, dream big and work hard.”
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Racing Reimagined H O W E L L I S PA R K IS BALANCING H E R I TAG E AND GROWTH
Photo by C O A D Y M E D I A
I
n an era where family outings and local entertainment can quickly turn into expensive endeavors, Ellis
Park Racing & Gaming is leaning hard into accessibility, affordability, and physical transformation. Following a successful season marked by packed grandstands for novel events like Corgi and Wiener dog races, alongside free Saturday concerts, leadership is seeing a resurgence of first-time and returning visitors. According to Doug Lovett, senior director of operations, the response to the venue’s updated approach has been immediate. “Our goal this year with the “Reimagined” theme was to
Written by M E G H A N N R I C H A R D S O N
highlight ourselves as a destination in the area,” he said. “A place to go where you can spend a day with friends and family
28 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
and not break the bank. We have free parking, free admission
Photo provided by E L L I S PA R K
and even free sunscreen. While it seems every entertainment option in the world is becoming unattainable due to pricing, we wanted to keep the Ellis feel where everyone is welcomed and comfortable. It has been a tremendous response from the community.” That community response includes reintroduced locals, curious newcomers, and even visitors who had lost touch with the track’s core sport. “We continue to hear from guests who have never been here before or haven’t been here in years,” Lovett said. “We have even had people say they didn’t know we even had horse races anymore. As people continue to come back to visit, we are providing a fantastic atmosphere, experience and value that is second to none.”
BEHIND THE SCENES: INFRASTRUCTURE AND BARN AREA UPGRADES
While front-of-house events attract the crowds, significant
capital investments have been quietly reshaping the back end of the 240-acre property. Since Churchill Downs Incorporated acquired Ellis Park in 2022, infrastructure updates have focused on both horsemen facilities and structural integrity. Lovett detailed several major property projects that guests may not always see from the grandstand: Water System Replacement: The historic, aging water tower was removed and replaced with a dedicated on-site water filtration plant, effectively resolving the property’s long-standing “brown water” issues. Horsemen Amenities: Updates include barn renovations, improved support areas, and a newly constructed Stable Gate entrance. Grandstand Safety: Over the past two years, extensive structural work was completed on the grandstands to ensure long-term safety and security for attendees.
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Photo by D E B B I E B R I D W E L L S C O T T
over the past few years. For Ellis Park, we have been able to buck that trend and have showed continued growth,” Lovett said. “The record set this season for single day handle was a testament to the hard work of our entire team, the horsemen on our property, and especially the quality of racing at Ellis Park. The higher purses and larger fields continue to draw some of the best owners, trainers and jockeys in the industry. These are all great signs for the long-term health of Ellis Park.”
FOSTERING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND OFF-SEASON EVENTS
Management is also prioritizing
ways to re-invest that momentum
MODERNIZING THE GAMING FLOOR
The property’s gaming space
this season by setting a new record for the highest single-day on-site parimutuel handle in track history.
is also undergoing a multi-phase
Lovett attributes that milestone
refresh aimed at updating technology
to higher purses, larger race fields,
and guest comfort.
and an influx of top-tier talent.
A newly completed digital sound and
video
system
was
recently
brought online, alongside upgraded smoke
filtration
units.
Looking
ahead to the end of the year, planned facility projects include full interior repainting,
comprehensive
carpet
replacement, a brand-new central bar near the main entrance, and converting half of the gaming floor into a dedicated nonsmoking section.
BUCKING NATIONAL TRENDS WITH RECORD WAGERING
The physical and operational
shifts are translating directly into financial success. While horse racing nationwide has experienced a multiyear trend of declining handle, Ellis Park achieved a historic milestone
30 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
back
into
through
the
regional
charitable
economy outreach,
corporate volunteering, and donated venue access. Crucial to that effort is shifting Ellis Park from a seasonal track into a 12-month destination. The marketing
“The horse racing industry as a
team is actively scheduling non-
whole has been in a continued decline
racing events to bring crowds onto the Photo by C O A D Y M E D I A
property year-round, starting with a 5K race benefiting Chemo Buddies in October that gives runners the unique opportunity to cross the actual track finish line. Beyond running events, leadership hopes to restore historical uses that once drew locals to the property, including farmers markets, car shows, vendor fairs, concerts, and private event rentals for weddings and graduations. As
Henderson
pursues
broader
economic development initiatives, track leadership
envisions
growing
right
alongside the city. “Ellis Park wants to be known as a good and strong community partner. We want to be able to give back to the community who supports us,” Lovett said. “Our team is committed to the long-term viability of that relationship but we also know we need to grow with Henderson as they tackle their vision to become the most ‘Hospitable City’ in the country.” Photo provided by E L L I S PA R K
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E
Rhythm River Distillery
Brings Bourbon Distilling Back to Henderson After 100 Years Written by M E G H A N N R I C H A R D S O N
32 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
/ / Photos by J E S S E LY K I N S
M
ore than a century after spirits were last distilled and bottled in Henderson, Kentucky, co-founder
and president Andrew Powell is bringing the tradition back with the opening of Rhythm River Distillery. Located on the former Municipal Power & Light property near downtown and the Ohio River, the craft distillery aims to revitalize the historic utility site while serving as a local gathering place and regional destination. "We wanted to build something that would outlast us," Powell said. "It's hard to think of many things that are more 'Kentucky' than bourbon. We love being from Kentucky, especially Western Kentucky--and our home in Henderson. It has been more than 100 years since spirits were distilled and bottled here. The opportunity to bring that tradition back, and build something our community could be proud of, was simply too meaningful to pass up." Powell and his wife, Meredith, explored multiple locations
in
Henderson
County
and
surrounding
communities before choosing their hometown. Rather than building a massive industrial facility on the outskirts, the pair selected the former power plant property to place a small, state-of-the-art craft distillery right in the thick of downtown. The distillery's name reflects both local geography and a personal philosophy regarding the town's identity, history, and music culture. "To us, Rhythm River is Henderson as well as a philosophy," Powell said. "It's not just the quaint river town with incredible music festivals--but Henderson has a distinct identity. Our community meshes new prosperity with historic tradition to make a truly remarkable place. We also feel Rhythm River embraces the outlook we seek to espouse. Regardless of where the current takes you, make harmony with it. Don't just go with the flow; create a melody worth sharing. We want people to embrace Rhythm River, great spirits and great experiences that are unashamedly Henderson and unmistakably authentic." When doors open, the facility will debut with handselected Rivertown label whiskeys, along with Spring Garden Gin and Vodka. The initial release marks the first whiskeys bottled in Henderson since Prohibition, while the gin and vodka represent the first spirits distilled in Henderson in over a century. In time, house-distilled Rhythm River whiskeys will mature for release, with longterm plans to distribute globally. To differentiate from established brands across the state, Powell noted the distillery refuses to manufacture a mythical backstory. Instead, the river, local architecture, music, commerce, and historical personalities are woven O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Community H E N D E R S O N O N T H E RIS E directly into the physical space. The visitor center is designed to feel
warm,
immersive,
and
slightly
theatrical, giving guests the feeling of stepping into another era before realizing it sits atop a working distillery. Beyond tours and tastings, the venue will host live
entertainment,
experiences,
and
cocktails, private
special
events
to
encourage repeat visits from locals and tourists alike. Community partnership serves as a core strategy for the operation. The founders engaged a Henderson-based architect, hired local contractors, and established partnerships with nearby restaurants, retail shops, and innkeepers to drive broader economic energy downtown. Bringing the project to life required overcoming
construction
hurdles,
regulatory demands, and the logistical challenge of turning imagination into a physical facility. Despite those obstacles, Powell views hospitality as the true measure of success. "They may forget the proof of a whiskey or exactly how a still works, but they’ll remember the people, the atmosphere, the stories and who they shared a drink with," Powell said. "Our desire in hospitality is to create memories, not just customers." Looking toward the distillery's longterm legacy, Powell hopes the venture serves as an anchor for ongoing regional growth. "We hope Rhythm River was just the next stepping stone to more amazing things happening in Henderson," Powell said. "We hope it feels like it has always belonged here, a Henderson institution that created jobs, brought people downtown, introduced visitors to our community, and gave the next generation something worth carrying forward. Twenty years from now, we don’t want people talking about what we built; we want them talking about what Henderson built around it."
34 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Photos by S A L I N A P E N N I N G T O N P H O T O G R A P H Y
Home & Living
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Home & Living S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S IN G S EC T IO N
Welcome to
Home & Living
W
e created our Home & Living section to bring you ideas and inspiration for making your home truly your own. Whether
you’re building, renovating, redecorating or simply dreaming about what’s next, we want these pages to connect fresh ideas with the local people who can help bring them to life. For this issue, we’re stepping inside the home of a local builder to discover not just what they built, but what makes their own home special and why. From hardworking spaces and smart storage to bold choices and meaningful details, we hope their favorite features spark ideas for your own home. Along the way, we’re highlighting local businesses who show
Written by J O R D A N & C A L L I E C E S S N A
just how much can be dreamed, designed and created right here in
Photos by S A L I N A P E N N I N G T O N
our community. We hope you find an idea within these pages that
PHOTOGRAPHY
36 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
inspires you to create something special in the place you call home.
THE WHY
For us, home has always been about more than the house itself. It’s where families
laugh, dream, grow and create memories they’ll cherish for years to come. Jordan earned his degree in construction management from Western Kentucky University and spent a decade in the construction industry before we built our own “forever home.” Somewhere in the process of creating a place that meant so much to us, a bigger dream began to take shape: helping other families build homes that mean just as much to them as ours does to us. And so, the dream for Belle Homes was born. The name came a little later. Once our daughter, Elle, was born, it pretty much named itself. Now, the Belle Homes name also serves as a daily reminder of our “why.” Homes are what we build. Your family — and ours — is why we build them.
FAMILY DINNER
Sitting down together at the table for dinner has always been important to us. It’s where
we slow down, talk about our day and spend a little uninterrupted time together, so we wanted this space to invite us to do just that. Our dining nook is a little bit formal dining room, a little bit eat-in kitchen and a blend of old and new in both function and design. Custom banquette seating makes it cozy, while a traditional table passed down through the family and reupholstered cane-back chairs bring a little history into the new. It’s proof that building new doesn’t mean everything inside has to be new, too. Some of the best spaces come together when something made just for you sits alongside something that already has a story. Hanging over it all is a special prayer crafted into a sign by our dear friends at Whims & Wishes, located right here in downtown Henderson.
THE ISLAND
They say the kitchen is the heart
of the home, and in ours, the island is where everyone seems to land. We made it larger than standard because we wanted it to be beautiful, but it also needed to be a workhorse. The added depth gives us room for everyday life: plenty of space to prep dinner, a place for Elle to work on homework and a landing spot for J to take calls and jot down notes — all while leaving room for seasonal décor and, of course, the latest masterpiece by our resident artist. Because some things simply deserve prime real estate! All in all, it’s practical and almost always in use, which is exactly how we designed it.
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Home & Living S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S IN G S EC T IO N
COLOR COORDINATED
If there was ever a room to have a
little fun, this one was ours. We went bold in the office with blue-violet floral wallpaper, then carried those same tones into the custom cabinetry with a matched paint color to make the entire room feel intentional from floor to ceiling. The final layer is our logo sign from Sign Design in downtown Henderson. It fits right in with the color and design of the rest of the room, and, like most things in our home, it’s functional, too. The sign doubles as a dry-erase board and keeps all of our jobs and related timelines organized on a daily basis.
THE LANDING ZONE
The mudroom is what keeps our household
running. We designed the custom built-ins to give everything that comes through the door a place to land — backpacks, purses, wallets, hats and more. Drawers beneath the bench keep Elle’s evergrowing shoe collection tucked away, while the countertop serves as our charging station and designated slots keep the mail from taking over every other surface in the house. And because no home is complete without one, this is also where you’ll find our resident junk drawer — batteries, scissors and approximately 47 other things no one knows where else to put. Giving everyday life a place to live was the whole point of this space.
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FUNCTIONAL STORAGE
Our family room was designed for
just that — family. We wanted it to feel warm and pulled together while still making room for all the things that come with actually living here. The cabinetry beneath the TV quietly hides extra blankets, dog toys and close to a bajillion Magna-Tiles — because Elle plans to follow in her daddy’s footsteps and needs to keep her building materials extra close. Underfoot, our rug was custommade by Square Yard Carpet, which also sourced the wood flooring — and, actually, all the flooring and tile throughout our home. It’s a great reminder to always look local first. Some of your favorite pieces may already be right here in our community.
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Home & Living S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S IN G S EC T IO N
WHIMSICAL
A child’s room should feel
like, well … a child lives there! We wanted something elevated and timeless without designing all the whimsy out of it. We took the color up — literally — with a bold, happy pink ceiling, then used the same shade to trim a section of playful wallpaper and tie the room together. The bold paint was sourced from HomeCrafters in downtown Henderson. This room is a good reminder that sometimes the best design choice is simply being brave enough to use the color.
COZY FIREPLACE
We wanted our primary
bedroom to feel like a true retreat — a quiet place to land at the end of the day. Adding the fireplace was one of those choices that wasn’t necessarily a need, but we knew it would bring the warmth and coziness we wanted this room to have. Finishing touches matter, too. The darling blue vases were sourced from The Olive Leaf in downtown Henderson — another little reminder that you don’t always have to look far from home to find something special for yours.
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THE LITTLE DETAILS Sometimes the smallest
details make the biggest difference. We chose a new faucet with old-world character for our soaking tub, complete with cross handles and “hot” and “cold” written in script — a subtle nod to the past that adds a little charm to something entirely new. Not every detail needs to demand attention. Sometimes, it’s the ones you notice only when you’re up close that make a space feel truly elevated.
FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS
Thanks for walking through our home with us. We hope you leave with a little inspiration for yours — and a reminder
that the best homes are the ones designed around the people who live in them. — Jordan & Callie
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42 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
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Home & Living S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S IN G S EC T IO N
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist 8 STEPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR COLD WEATHER
A
s temperatures cool, now
the
is an ideal time to prepare
proper
To
help
maintain
heating and cooling needs, a new
airflow,
Carrier
winter.
typically
system could cost less than you think.
your home for winter. Taking care
recommends replacing air filters
Homeowners can also explore utility
of seasonal maintenance before the
every 1-3 months.
rebates on qualifying equipment.
4. TEST SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
6. TEST YOUR THERMOSTAT
cold weather arrives can help protect you and your wallet from unexpected and costly repairs.
Testing your thermostat early
to
When changing clocks, test your
helps ensure your heating system
tune-up,
smoke alarms and carbon monoxide
is communicating properly before
tackling a few projects now can
detectors.
as
temperatures drop. Switch to heating
help set your home up for a safe and
needed. Working carbon monoxide
mode early to make sure your system
comfortable winter. Consider this
alarms
important
responds properly (just don’t forget
your ultimate fall home maintenance
as
and
home
to turn it back off). Replace batteries,
checklist from the experts at Carrier.
heating systems begin running more
if necessary, and consider whether
frequently.
a smart thermostat could provide
From scheduling
clearing an
gutters
HVAC
1. CLEAN GUTTERS
Leaves and debris collect quickly
in home gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are clear so water can
Replace
are
batteries
especially
temperatures
fall
additional comfort and control over
5. SCHEDULE YOUR HVAC TUNE-UP BEFORE WINTER ARRIVES
your home’s heating schedule.
drain properly and away from your
Don’t wait until the first cold day
home’s foundation. If you wait until
of the season to find out your heating
after temperatures drop, you run the
system isn’t ready for winter. Annual
risk of ice dams and water damage.
maintenance
2. INSPECT YOUR OUTDOOR HVAC EQUIPMENT Remove
leaves,
grass
clippings and debris that may have accumulated around your outdoor unit. Maintaining proper clearance can help support airflow and system performance throughout the season.
can
help
improve
7. SEAL AIR LEAKS AROUND DOORS AND WINDOWS Drafts can make a home feel colder and allow warm air inside
efficiency, extend equipment life
your
to
escape.
Inspect
and identify potential issues before
weatherstripping
around
doors
the heating season begins. Experts
and windows and replace it where
often recommend having an HVAC professional perform annual furnace maintenance in the fall before heating season begins. Routine maintenance can help keep a system operating in tip-top shape and allow a technician to identify smaller issues before they
house
needed. Caulk visible gaps to help keep conditioned air inside and improve your family’s comfort.
8. CHECK YOUR HOME’S INSULATION Finally, look at insulation in areas such as the attic, crawl spaces
3. REPLACE HVAC FILTERS
become costly repairs. is
keep heated air where it belongs and
and force your system to work
recommended, the upfront price
reduce the workload on your heating
harder, potentially increasing energy
doesn’t necessarily have to stand
system all winter long.
use and reducing comfort. A simple
between you and a more comfortable
filter check can also help prepare
home. Consider options from Carrier,
your heating system for increased
which
use. Check your HVAC filter before
options
turning on your heating system and continue inspecting it throughout
plan you qualify for and your home’s
Carrier.com.
A dirty filter can restrict airflow
44 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
and basement. Doing so can help However,
if
replacement
To learn more about preparing
financing
your heating or cooling system for
participating
the season, exploring financing and
dealers. Depending on the financing
rebates or finding a local expert, visit
offers
flexible
through
Lifestyle
O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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g
Lifestyle
Weaving Community Together
One Stitch at a Time Photo and Article by E L L E N R E D D I N G
46 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
athering together is fundamentally human. We are naturally drawn to shared experiences, whether that means regular card nights, a neighborhood book club or a lively round of mahjong. Being together gives us an opportunity to laugh, engage, learn and share. Most importantly, it keeps us fully present in the moment. For me, that connection ultimately came through a needle and thread. My mother first taught me to needlepoint when I was in high school. It was a simple, flawed starter piece with plenty of mistakes, but all these years later, my mother still proudly keeps it on display in her home. When I picked up the hobby again during college, I never considered it a group activity. To me, it was always a solitary project with a specific destination in mind: Make it, then gift it. I even made the infamous “breakup belt” for my boyfriend at the time. Despite the superstition, we didn’t break up. In fact, we got married. Although he no longer wears the belt I crafted for him 45 years ago, it remains a favorite family relic. After completing dozens of projects over the years, I have come to realize that creating alongside others is a precious and deeply rewarding way to spend time. That realization happened entirely by accident. A group of us were playing mahjong when the conversation turned to our hobbies. We quickly discovered that many of us shared a quiet fondness for needlepoint. It sparked the perfect opportunity to get together for a new purpose. Now that most of us are retired and have more time on our hands, we trade mahjong tiles for needlepoint canvas once a week. I have learned so much from these women. They have introduced me to new stitches,
tipped me off to creative retreats and helped forge connections we never knew we had. All of this blossomed simply because we were intentional about getting together, setting down our phones and having real conversations. As it turns out, our local community is full of these interconnected threads.
PASSING DOWN THE CRAFT
Shasta Norman’s story mirrors my own. She also started needlepointing in high school, rediscovering the craft years later when she picked up a small kit while shopping with her mom. “When I went to college at the University of Kentucky, I found a little needlepoint store called Two’s Company, and it was like a dream come true,” Shasta said.
“After shopping there for a couple of years, I ended up working there painting canvases and eventually began teaching others how to stitch.” For Shasta, the joy was about far more than the craft itself. “It was a wonderful way for a group of women to sit around, create and share really good conversation,” she said. Today, Shasta continues to paint custom needlepoint canvases, specializing in belts. “I think the hobby belts are the most enjoyable to paint,” she said, “because they tell a visual story of the most important parts of a person’s life.” For Christy Mitchell, the craft also became something passed from one generation to another. Her mother-in-law became a
mentor, teaching her techniques that went far beyond the belts and key chains Christy had stitched during her college years. Together, those lessons opened the door to pillows, picture frames, stockings, ornaments and other projects, each stitched for a special occasion and a special person.
KNITTING: A HOBBY THAT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER
Knitting among younger generations has also made a comeback — or perhaps it never really went away. My great-niece, Chloe, is a recent college graduate who works for Epic in Madison, Wisconsin. Her company sponsors numerous employee clubs designed to help people connect. Interestingly, they call these groups “motley
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Lifestyle
crews.” Chloe joined the Ants Fiber Arts Club, which meets weekly. “Having the commitment forces me to spend time with my friends working on a relaxing hobby,” she said. That regular gathering has reminded Chloe that she “can’t give 100% in work and life if I don’t take time to rest and take care of myself.” Here in our own community, knitting and crochet are also bringing people together in meaningful ways. For more than 10 years, the Prayer Shawl Ministry at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church has brought together volunteers who knit and crochet handmade shawls to offer comfort and prayer to people in need. The ministry has also supported hospice patients throughout the tri-county area.
QUILTING: CONNECTING GENERATIONS
And let’s not forget about quilting. Stacey Lawson’s love of quilting began long before she ever made a quilt of her own. It started in her grandmother’s living room, where she grew up watching her grandmother quilt. Stacey remembers those moments with fondness: “Her quilt frame hung from the ceiling and could be raised out of the way when it wasn’t being used. When it was time to quilt, the frame would be lowered, holding the layers of the quilt together while she carefully stitched them by hand. I can still picture her sitting there, working
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patiently, one stitch at a time. At the time, I didn’t realize how much those moments would stay with me or that one day quilting would become such a meaningful part of my own life. “About 30 years ago, I began sewing and pieced my first quilt top by hand. I loved the process of choosing fabrics, putting colors and patterns together and watching individual pieces become something beautiful. Life got crazy, and quilting was put on the back burner. “About a year ago, I met a group of ladies who had been making quilt tops for donation for about seven years. When they learned that I also enjoyed sewing and piecing quilts, they invited me to join their group. “Now, several of us meet to sew and piece quilt tops. There is laughter, conversation, friendship and, of course, plenty of fabric! But what makes our time together especially meaningful is knowing where the quilts will eventually go. “The group has donated to Henderson Build a Bed, and there are plans to provide quilts for patients at hospitals and care facilities. We hope the quilts will bring a little warmth and comfort during difficult times. “My grandmother and new friends have taught me that quilting is far more than fabric and stitches. A quilt represents time, patience, creativity and love. In many ways, quilting connects my past with my present — and allows something that began in my grandmother’s living room to become a gift for
someone else.” Whether we are stitching a custom belt, knitting with friends, piecing a quilt or laughing over a shared mistake, these gatherings remind us of the power of community. In a world full of screens, there is still nothing quite like sitting face-to-face, creating something beautiful and weaving our lives together — one stitch at a time.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Needlepoint Open Stitch Needlepoint enthusiasts are invited to bring a current project and stitch alongside others from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Beachbum Farms Designs & Company, 223 3rd St., Henderson, KY 42420 in the Veranda Room. Whether you need help with a project or simply want to spend time with fellow stitchers, all are welcome. Prayer Shawl Ministry St. Paul’s Episcopal Church’s Prayer Shawl Ministry welcomes those interested in volunteering, donating yarn or fabric, or requesting a handmade shawl or blanket for someone going through a difficult season. Location: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 5 S. Green St., Henderson, KY 42420 Contact: Gisele Purdy, 270844-2105, for meeting times, donation needs or information about requesting a comfort item. To learn more about the quilting group, volunteer or make a donation, contact stitchedwithgrace6@gmail.com.
Photo by J A M I E P L A I N
Flavor
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Flavor R EC I P E
FA L L- I NS P I RE D D I S H ES
Savor the Season FU L L OF WA RM T H A ND FL AVOR
Recipes and photos by J A M I E P L A I N
Cooler weather always brings a sense of relief — and a craving for the kind of food that feels warm, filling, and comforting. These recipes are simple, cozy, and built for autumn. The pumpkin gnocchi with sage cream sauce is rich and satisfying without feeling heavy. The sausage tortellini soup comes together quickly and is perfect for weeknights or slow weekends. And the pumpkin salted caramel sauce is the kind of thing you’ll want to keep in your fridge all season — for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, or whatever needs a little fall flavor. Nothing fussy here — just easy, reliable recipes that taste like the season.
Pumpkin Gnocchi GNOCCHI INGREDIENTS:
1 medium russet potato (10–12 oz), baked, peeled, and riced or mashed 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée, welldrained 1 large egg yolk 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan (yes— wedge Parm, not the tube) 1/2 to 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional but delicious)
SAGE SAUCE INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 6–8 fresh sage leaves 1 clove garlic, minced (optional but lovely) 1 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan Salt and black pepper, to taste Optional: pinch of nutmeg or squeeze of lemon juice for balance
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Bake the Potato
Preheat oven to 400°F. Poke potato with a fork and bake directly on the oven rack for 45–60 minutes until tender and dry. Once cool enough to handle, peel and mash until very smooth. Set aside 1 cup of mash.
2. Drain the Pumpkin Place 1/2 cup pumpkin purée in cheesecloth, a nut milk bag, or a fine mesh strainer lined with paper towels. Let sit for 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture. 3. Mix the Dough In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potato, drained pumpkin, Parmesan, egg yolk, salt, and optional seasonings. 50 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Gradually mix in flour, starting with 3/4 cup and adding more 1 Tbsp at a time until a soft, moldable dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to firm up for shaping. 5. Shape the Gnocchi
Scoop small portions and roll into balls (~1 to 1.25 inches wide). Flatten slightly, then use a toothpick or skewer to create 6–8 ridges around each ball. Press a pepita seed into the top center as a stem.
6. Optional: Freeze for Later
Place shaped gnocchi on a floured tray and freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag.
7. Cook the Gnocchi
Bring salted water to a gentle boil. Add gnocchi in small batches; cook until they float (1–2 minutes). Optional: sauté briefly in butter for color and extra flavor.
8. Make the Sage Sauce
In a saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until they’re crisp and the butter is just starting to brown slightly—about 2–3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let it burn. Lower the heat slightly, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan and whisk until fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes). Don’t let it boil. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Add a tiny pinch of nutmeg for warmth or a few drops of lemon juice if it feels too heavy. Remove the sage leaves before serving (or leave them in for garnish and drama).
Pumpkin Salted Caramel Sauce INGREDIENTS:
1 cup granulated sugar 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes 1/2 cup heavy cream, room temp 1/4 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix) 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove) 1/2 to 1 teaspoon flaky or kosher salt, to taste Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Melt the Sugar
In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add 1 cup granulated sugar. Heat over medium, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon. The sugar will
clump, then melt into a deep amber liquid—keep stirring gently until fully melted.
2. Add the Butter Immediately add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into cubes). Stir until fully melted and combined. Be cautious—it will bubble up as the butter hits the hot sugar. 3. Stir in the Cream Slowly pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream while stirring. The mixture will bubble vigorously; stir constantly until smooth and combined.
4. Add Pumpkin and Flavorings Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/4 cup pumpkin purée, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher or flaky salt (to taste). Optional: add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra depth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
5. Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let cool for 10–15 minutes before using. Sauce will thicken more as it cools. Store in a jar or airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before serving. O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Flavor R EC I P E
Tortellini Sausage Soup INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or diced tomatoes if you want a chunkier texture)
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
10–12 ounces refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
1/2 cup heavy cream
2–3 handfuls fresh spinach or kale (optional but great)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, fresh basil, crushed red pepper
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy) and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Optional: Drain excess grease, or leave a little for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add 1 small diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3–4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth Stir in one 28-ounce can crushed 52 Henderson Living O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6
tomatoes (or diced if you like more texture). Add 4 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
4. Add Tortellini
Add 10–12 ounces refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini. Simmer according to package directions, usually 5–7 minutes, until pasta is tender but not mushy.
5. Finish with Cream and Greens
Lower heat and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Add 2–3 handfuls of fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, fresh basil, or crushed red pepper if desired. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for ultimate comfort.
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Flavor R ESTAU R A N T S P OT L IG H T
Homer's Barbecue Photos and article by
CHRISTY CHANEY I live in Owensboro, Kentucky, the self-proclaimed barbecue capital of the world. We have multiple brickand-mortar barbecue restaurants. We have barbecue food trucks. We even have a wonderful guy who sells barbecue on the side of the road off a folding table. We even have a festival. But the other day, I drove to Henderson to try Homer’s Barbecue. I took some friends and ordered more than just barbecue because, you know, I need to know the whole menu, and I only have so much stomach space. Here’s what we found out. I’m starting with the sauces because that is 100% where Homer’s showed up and showed off. Let’s start with the monthly sauce because, by the time you read this, it will probably be gone. But I will still be dreaming about it. Blackberry barbecue sauce. I’m telling you right now, you could dip anything in it. Anything. It could probably even make celery tolerable. Then there are the regulars: Western Kentucky, Sweet ’N Tangy, Thick ’N Spicy, Carolina Mustard and Alabama White. The Blackberry Barbecue gets an honorary No. 1 because it’s temporary, so I’m not letting it mess with the ranking of the staples. My personal sauce ranking looks like this: No. 1: Alabama White — I swear to you, I would have stolen a squeeze bottle, put it in my car and driven it home if my waitress hadn’t been watching me so diligently. She literally saw me squirt it onto a spoon and eat it. I dipped the pork in it. I dipped the chicken in it. I dipped my daughter’s burger in it. I dipped the french fries in it. I dipped everything in the Alabama White sauce, and I
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suggest you do that, too. No. 2: Sweet ’N Tangy — This was everything I love about barbecue sauce. I like the sweet viscosity of brown sugar, and I love a kick of heat on the finish. This did not overpower or burn; it complemented absolutely everything. From there, I would try Western Kentucky, Thick ’N Spicy and then Carolina Mustard. I find mustard to be a worthless condiment, but if you love mustard, please move this sauce wherever you want in your own
ranking! My group started with fried okra: crispy little nuggets that, for a moment, let you forget they’re vegetables, topped with ranch and Sweet ’N Tangy. We also ordered chips and queso, and Homer’s needs to go ahead and bag those housemade seasoned chips. Just put them in a bag. Matter of fact, if we could go back to the way Charles Chips used to be and Homer’s could fill up cans of them and deliver them to my house,
I’d really be down for that. Pro tip: Dip the chips in the Alabama White sauce. Do you sense a theme here? Because there’s a theme. But the best appetizer we ordered was the Briskitos, which are basically what would happen if a taquito, a chimichanga and barbecue had a baby. They were perfectly crispy, stuffed with chili-rubbed brisket and candied jalapeños, and topped with queso, dry rub and Sweet ’N Tangy barbecue sauce. They are the stars of the appetizer world. If you’re going to Homer’s and you’re only getting one appetizer, get the Briskitos! Then we moved on to the meals. We tried the burger, the Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla and the Pulled Pork Smash Sammy special. Of those three, hands down, the burger won the table. Flat out won the table. Everybody took a bite of it. It was a fantastic burger. In Owensboro, we have Burger Week. It would have won. I’m calling it. That burger would have won Burger Week. It was good in all the sauces. It was especially good in the Alabama White sauce. Again. I know. I’m sorry. Then there was the Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla. Yes, we went to
a barbecue restaurant and ordered a Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla. There is a Barbecue Chicken Quesadilla on the menu, and that would be our choice next time because everything about the way the quesadilla itself was made was stellar. Next time, barbecue chicken. That’s where we’re going. Plus, then you can dip it in Alabama White instead of sour cream. Who said that? Me. I said that. We also ordered the three-meat sampler because we felt like that was the best way to taste everything. We chose the cheddar jalapeño sausage, which I find to be the darling of the barbecue world. If I go to Franklin Barbecue or Shotgun Willie’s or any of the top-tier barbecue places I’ve visited, I always get the jalapeño cheddar sausage. It’s the tiebreaker. Homer’s came sliced. Not my favorite. I don’t like it sliced because I need to know about that snap. When it comes sliced, there’s no snap. So, points off for pre-slicing my sausage, but the flavor was there and the smoke was good. We chose pulled chicken instead of the Half Bird, and next time I’m getting the Half Bird. With pulled
chicken, you’re missing the skin, and I should have known that. I didn’t catch it when we ordered. So, Homer’s, I’m coming back for you. I’m coming back for the smoked Half Bird because I need to know about that skin. The last meat on the platter was pulled pork. You could see the smoke ring. I got a few little crispy burnt ends. The pulled pork was the star of the platter. It was tender. It was flavorful. And it dunked well into the sauce. Yes, the white one again. I’m sorry. It was so good. Then we have to get to the sides. We strategically planned this. Nobody got duplicate sides. We got the french fries. I know what you’re thinking: French fries? You can get those anywhere. Nope. Get them. They were crispy. They were thin. They were seasoned. They were flavorful. And, obviously, they went into the Alabama White sauce. I know they seem like a throwaway side when there are all these other options, but they were good fries. Next was the mac and cheese, made with cavatappi noodles. It was cheesy and topped with spice. That’s O C T O B E R / / N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 Henderson Living
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Flavor R ESTAU R A N T S P OT L IG H T one thing Homer’s does over and over again: The food has flavor. Then there were the barbecue baked beans. Those came off a little sweet to me and had a whang of something, but they were soft and tender. If you’re a beans person, get them. But next time, I’m not getting those barbecue baked beans. I’m getting the Cowboy Caviar. It was chilled and tangy and had a bite, and it was so colorful. It was like bean confetti. Phenomenal. Get that. We also got the burgoo. Now listen, I’m from Owensboro, Kentucky. We throw down burgoo with a paddle in a cauldron. So, while I’m not going to call Homer’s version Owensboro mutton burgoo, I’ll give their burgoo a nod. Everybody there pronounced it correctly. You could see the vegetables in it. It wasn’t sludge. If you like burgoo, this was a very clean burgoo. Then there was the Loaded Potato Salad. I love potato salad. I love it. But what I don’t like is mashed potato salad, and Homer’s did it right. Big chunks of potato, flavorful mayonnaise base, cheese. I would take a quart of it home. I might even eat it in the car with a spoon on the highway. But there was one sleeper hit on the table: a tiny little pile of pickled red onions and pickles. Those pickles. Homer’s makes them in-house, and they were phenomenal. You know when you go to a barbecue joint and get that thin little pickle that obviously came out of a jar? Fine. This was a thick pickle with a little bit of spice and this fun sweet-yetvinegary flavor. Get the pickles. Order extra. Do it. Order extra pickles. And then there was the part of Homer’s that had nothing to do with what was on our plates. There was live music. We were sitting outside on the patio. Everybody was jamming along, and our entire table sang along to the Red Hot Chili Peppers with the guy
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playing guitar onstage. A family was playing cornhole. Kids were playing Connect Four. People were sitting outside together. It was glorious. There is something to be said about a third space. A third space is somewhere that isn’t home and isn’t work. It’s the place where people gather, interact and connect with each other. And they matter. Those casual interactions help create relationships, connection and a sense of belonging. They strengthen the ties between people who share a community, and I think the presence of good third spaces says something about the health of a town.
Homer’s is a third space. Sitting on that patio, watching families play games, listening to live music and seeing people simply enjoying being together, I thought about what Homer’s says about Henderson. It says people want to be here, not just eat and leave. And that’s a pretty good sign of a healthy community. So, if you haven’t been to Homer’s yet, go try it. Try all the sauces. Drink the Alabama White sauce. Order extra pickles. It’s not just “Damn Good Q.” It’s a glimpse into Henderson itself and the kind of community where people want to stay awhile.
Family
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Family C R A FT
Sponsored Content
MATERIALS Paper
Markers, colored pencils, crayons Pencil Eraser
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size of paper. We used an 8.5 inch x 11 inch piece.
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3. To fill in the tree trunk and branches, we used colored markers on our example, but you can use crayons or colored pencils, even paint if you have it. Use brown as a base color to make wispy lines all over your tree, on the trunk and branches. Once you’re done with brown, continue making wispy lines with dark, cool colors like purple, blue, and green.
4. After you have colored in your tree, grab a light brown or tan color. Make swirls all over the background or white space that you have left. 5. Gather the following colors in your
Craft Time!
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drawing materials: Yellow
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6. Using your fall colors, draw all
different sized and colored circles around the limbs of your trees. Outline them in a different color. You can create combinations like brown, red, and orange or yellow, green, and brown. These are meant to mimic the changing fall colors of leaves.
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Family W E L L NESS
When the Holidays Feel Different Written by R E B E C C A H O P P E R , M . D .
T
he seasons are changing, and the holidays are quickly
approaching. The world around us seems to ask more of us while also pulling our focus toward making this time as special as possible. Family
gatherings,
good
food,
parties, gifts and the expectation to be joyful can all be wonderful — but they can also feel overwhelming. How do you enjoy the holidays when they look different from the so-called “ideal” or even from what you expected? Many people enter the holiday season
carrying
unexpected
burdens: the death of a loved one, divorce, illness, family tension, financial loss or any number of other life stressors. Our instinct may be to push those difficult feelings aside because no one wants to be a downer during the holidays. Aren’t we supposed to be happy? A
healthier
approach
is
to
acknowledge what’s difficult, both to yourself and to the people you love and trust. The reality is that very few people experience the “picture-perfect” holiday, and it’s important to remember that you get to create your own picture. You cannot change what you have experienced, but you can create a season that serves you in this chapter of your life. Change traditions if memories of the way things used to be are too painful. Set clear boundaries around who
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you will and will not spend time with — not out of spite, but with the intention of protecting your peace. Reach out to people you trust for support, and consider helping someone else as a way to shift your focus beyond your own struggles. And don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you need help navigating the season. Asking for help can be an important step in taking care of yourself. It’s also important to remember that we can carry more than one thing at a time. You can hold both grief and joy, loneliness
and connection, hope and disappointment, faith and fear, fun and fatigue. Don’t let the expectations of the season keep you from recognizing the good that can exist alongside the hard. Look for what is good in your life, rather than what society tells you your life should look like. The holidays will pass. Give yourself permission to experience this season as it is, not as you think it is supposed to be. And remember, sometimes the most unexpectedly wonderful things have a way of showing up when we need them most.
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Family R E A D E R S U BM I SS I O N S
Henderson What are you thankful for? We asked our readers: What are you most thankful for right here in Henderson? Maybe it’s your family, a special friend, a teacher or coach, a local organization, your church, a favorite place in town—or simply the community you call home. Let’s fill our pages with the people, places and moments that make us grateful to call Henderson home.
"I'm thankful for Henderson Community College and their nursing program! Because of its affordability, I was able to follow my dreams of becoming a Registered Nurse at the age of 42! The instructors and staff in the program are the best!! Now im a Nurse who LOVES their job."
"So thankful for Mrs. Pinkston! The transition from elementary school to middle school has been such a great experience thanks to her." Jess Campbell
"My mom." Leighton Owens
Nicole Butler
"I’m thankful for our river and all that flows from it & around it…. Beautiful sunsets, walkable riverwalk, fabulous music festivals, downtown outdoor seating/dining, parks, the Riverport business, our water, the wildlife, boating & all the big tourism boats!" Leanne Banna
"Friendships." Rachel Kristen
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"Miracle Babies"
Rebekah Carter Monday
"My family and our weekly Mexican date!" Cassidy N James Brown
"Our church Henderson's First Baptist Church" Nicole Brooks
"Making it to 50 and this sweet grandaughter of mine."
Carrie Phillips
"Thankful for this group of friends."
Berry
Brittany Carr
"The newest member of our family." Katelyn
Chandler
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Family R E A D E R S U BM I SS I O N S
Henderson What are you thankful for?
"My family!" Rachel Gourley
"Our Busy Bees family! They are the absolute BEST!!"
Brit Nicole Cavins
"Our dance community and how they teach team work and determination!" Elizabeth Wood
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"Active grandparents!" Leah Danielle Winstead
"My broke little best friends!" Rachel Bray
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