Owensboro Times in Print - Vol 2, Issue 1

Stamper and Stringer plan to revive former Trisons building with mixed-use development

Local dentists and business partners Josh Stamper and Shawn Stringer are setting out to restore and reimagine one of downtown Owensboro’s most historic buildings. The pair recently purchased two adjacent properties to create a vibrant mixed-use space in the heart of the city. They acquired 511-513 Frederica Street (the large white building known for decades as the home of Trisons Gifts and The Trophy House), along with 501 Frederica Street (a former detail shop and garage located at the corner of 5th and Frederica). Together, the properties offer

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

more than 14,000 square feet of potential.

“Shawn and I are both pretty entrepreneurial-minded, and we had been kicking around a few ideas for years,” Stamper said.

“We just needed the right space to make it happen. This building checked every box.”

The main building features four ground-floor retail spaces and two upper floors, suitable for commercial or office use, totaling over 12,000 square feet.

According to Stamper, their vision includes a mix of commercial, medical, retail, and possibly restaurant tenants. Initial work will focus on upgrading in-

frastructure, including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and roofing.

“We want to restore it to its glory, not just have another halftorn-down building downtown,” Stamper said. “Phase one is about making it beautiful and safe again. By the second half of 2026, we’ll be ready to share more of the long-term vision.”

While they haven’t ruled out relocating their Bluegrass Dental practice from the Midtown Building to the new property, Stamper said that decision will depend on how the development evolves.

“There will definitely be a medical component to the

building, and it could be dental. But we’re keeping our options open,” he said.

The project also includes plans to convert the adjacent garage property into a parking lot. Stamper said that would help address a common downtown issue and support future tenants.

“If we can get five or six businesses in here, they’ll all need parking,” he said. “That corner lot could be a huge asset.”

Stamper and Stringer credit their friend and downtown developer John Ross Martin, along with realtor Blake Hayden, for

on page 4

Owensboro Times captured 42 awards in this year’s Kentucky Press Association contest, highlighted by a first-place finish in Advertising General Excellence and a secondplace Editorial General Excellence award for the third straight year. Continued on page 5

a first look at the candidates running in the 2026 Election.

on page 16

‘Best of Owensboro Living’ voting returns March 20

Community invited to choose local

favorites

Voting for the annual “Best of Owensboro Living” awards presented by Owensboro Living magazine will open March 20, giving readers across the community a chance to support their favorite local businesses, organizations, and professionals across dozens of categories.

The online-only ballot will feature more than 80 categories spanning food and drink, retail, health and

wellness, home services, family activities, professional services, and more. From restaurants and coffee shops to medical providers, salons, and specialty stores, the “Best of Owensboro Living” awards are designed to highlight the people and places that residents rely on most.

Voting will take place for one day only and must be completed online. The official ballot link will be shared across all Owensboro Living and Owensboro Times platforms, including websites and social media channels, when voting opens.

Each voter may submit one ballot. Participants are not required to vote in every category.

Winners will be recognized in the May edition of the magazine, as well as at a formal awards ceremony.

Owensboro Living Editor Ryan Richardson said the awards are designed to showcase community voice and engagement.

“This is one of our most community-driven projects each year because the results come directly from the people who live and work here,” Richardson said. “The ‘Best of Owensboro Living’ awards let readers actively recognize the local businesses and professionals they rely on and recommend to others.”

Richardson said the awards often highlight both long-established institutions and newer small businesses.

“Every year we see a mix of familiar names and new surprises,” he said. “That tells us the local business community is continuing to grow and evolve, and readers are paying attention.”

helping to shape the vision for the project. Though he has no financial interest in the building, Stamper said Martin has connected them with contractors and encouraged them to see the building’s potential.

“We didn’t see it at first,” Stamper said. “But John’s commitment to revitalizing downtown is contagious. Seeing his projects gave us the spark.”

They’re also hoping the community can help fill in the blanks of the building’s history. According to Stamper, the structure serves as a time capsule of Frederica Street’s transformation from a residential mansion row into a commercial corridor in the early 20th century.

According to Stamper’s research, before 1920, the block was home to sprawling estates belonging to the Sweeney and Stirman families. That began to change when Standard Oil built a gas station at 501 Frederica — the very corner lot Stamper and Stringer now own — sparking a wave of commercial development.

Stamper said the first structure at 507 Frederica was a high-end grocery store built by H.G. Smith in 1922. A year later, real estate developer Lee Hart constructed the adjoining storefronts at 509, 511, and 513 Frederica. Stamper said Hart

intentionally matched the buildings’ brickwork, rooflines, and sidewalk height, creating one of Owensboro’s first unified commercial blocks.

Stamper’s research also revealed that in 1935, oilman W.W. Damron led a major expansion. According to the research, Damron added a second story to several storefronts and introduced the cast-stone “Lions of Commerce,” which still decorate the building’s façade. These lions were intended to symbolize strength and stability during the Great Depression.

“We’re trying to get the building on the National Register of Historic Places,” Stamper said. “It has a legacy, and we want to honor that.”

The developers hope to preserve as much of the building’s original character as possible. That includes restoring old brick, maintaining plaster walls, and reusing the building’s historic woodwork and doors. They are actively seeking old photographs or stories to help document the site’s full history.

Stamper encouraged anyone with historic photos or information about 511-513 Frederica Street to contact him at drjoshstamper@ gmail.com.

“We want to celebrate this building’s story while giving it a new chapter,” Stamper said. “Owensboro’s downtown has so much to offer. We just want to do our part.”

This is only Owensboro Times’ fourth year in the statewide competition, where it is judged alongside many long-established Kentucky news organizations. The latest recognition continues a steady upward climb for OT — from 15 KPA awards the first year, to 26, then 40, and now 42.

In addition to the General Excellence honors, Owensboro Times received multiple first-place awards in investigative reporting, sports coverage, feature writing, multimedia, video, photography, and a wide range of advertising categories.

Still, Managing Editor Ryan Richardson said the General Excellence honors carry particular weight because they measure the overall quality and consistency of the full publication — not just individual entries.

“Being evaluated and recognized by longtime professional news organizations across Kentucky reinforces the credibility of our work and the standards we hold ourselves to,” Richardson said. “While some

outlets still rely almost strictly on traditional print-first models, we’ve proven year in and year out that a modern, digital-first approach can be just as rigorous and reliable, if not more so. Our audience growth and reader feedback back that up every day.”

Richardson added that while peer recognition is important, community trust remains the top priority.

“These awards matter, but what matters more is the response and support from the community,” he said. “From investigative reporting to positive community storytelling, readers tell us they rely on us first for fair, local coverage. That trust is what drives everything we do.”

Richardson said the results reflect a continued focus on raising the bar each year.

“We’ve kept improving, and the independent judging helps confirm that progress,” he said. “We’re proud of the work, proud of the team, and proud to represent this community at a high level.”

2025 Kentucky Press Association awards for Owensboro Times

ADVERTISING CONTEST AWARDS

(1ST — ADVERTISING GENERAL EXCELLENCE)

1st, 2nd, 3rd — Creative Use of Newspaper/News Promotion

1st, 2nd, 3rd — Online Ad

1st, 2nd, 3rd — Professional Services Ad

1st, 2nd — Automotive Ad

1st, 2nd — Holiday Ad

1st, 3rd — Healthcare Ad

1st, 3rd — Use of Color

• 1st, 3rd — Financial Ad

• 1st, 3rd — Real Estate Ad

1st — Retail Ad

1st — General/ Miscellaneous Ad 2nd — Ad Series

Certificate of Merit — Group Promotion Ad

Certificate of Merit — Political Ad

EDITORIAL CONTEST AWARDS

(2ND — EDITORIAL GENERAL EXCELLENCE)

• 1st, 2nd, 3rd — Video

1st, 2nd — Sports Story

1st, 3rd — Sports Feature

1st — Investigative Story/ Series

1st — Lede Writer

1st — Use of Social/ Multimedia

2nd — Breaking News Photo

2nd — Sports Photo Essay

3rd — Photo Essay

3rd — Front Page

Editorial

MANAGING EDITOR

Ryan Richardson

ASSISTANT EDITOR

John Kirkpatrick

SPORTS WRITER

Max Rayman

PUBLISHERS

Jason Tanner

Christy Chaney

Do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to info@owensborotimes.com.

Advertising

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Brock Quinton

Owensboro Times’ printed newspaper is a FREE publication because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise.

For more information about advertising in our free newspaper or on owensborotimes.com, email brock.quinton@blackbox.media.

Design & Photography

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jamie Plain

LAYOUT AND AD DESIGNER

Andrea Roberson

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Unpreserved deathbed confessions: DCSO revisiting two murder cases complicated by lost records

By RYAN RICHARDSON

Photo by Jamie Plain

In the final moments of life, some secrets refuse to stay buried. In one case, a dying patient described a night that lined up chillingly well with the discovery of a burned home and a

woman’s body in Knottsville. In another, a man claimed to have killed his wife decades ago before burying her somewhere in Daviess County, yet no remains have ever been found.

than they are today.

Now, years later, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office is trying to work backward, hoping the people who heard those final words still remember them.

Confessions at the end of life

Deathbed confessions typically come not from suspects calling police, but through family members, nurses, hospice workers, or doctors who hear something they can’t ignore.

“A person is literally about to pass away, and they want to get something off their chest,” Sheriff Brad Youngman said. “Maybe they found religion later in life, or they’ve sat on a secret for so long. For whatever reason, they decide to tell someone.”

Those deathbed statements are often relayed to law enforcement afterward. Youngman said that while most out-of-court statements would normally be considered hearsay, deathbed confessions occupy a different legal space.

“My understanding is that there have been cases where those statements are allowed in court,” Youngman said. “There would probably be evidentiary hearings, and it would get complex, but there is existing case law that could help us.”

In many cold cases, however, prosecution is no longer the primary goal.

“If the person giving the confession is the perpetrator and they’ve died, it goes from prosecution to disclosure — closure for the family, closure for the victim,” said DCSO Captain Jeff Payne.

is connected to the death of Terri Howell, whose body was discovered in Knottsville following a house fire. According to investigators, the confession itself surfaced quietly in 2021, and then effectively disappeared.

The missing confession came back into focus recently, after a former detective read a previous Owensboro Times article revisiting Howell’s death and cold case.

“After seeing OT’s article on Terri Howell, a former detective reached out and asked what had happened with the deathbed confession that was called in back in 2021,” Payne said. “When we looked through the case file and the case notes, there was no indication of a deathbed confession at all.”

What investigators now believe, based on information relayed by that former detective, is that a hospice or healthcare worker in Hancock County contacted law enforcement after a patient — who later died in 2021 — disclosed details about Howell’s death.

According to Payne, the patient was not involved in the crime but claimed direct knowledge of what happened.

“Apparently, it was a female patient,” Payne said. “She talked about being at home with a relative when there was a knock at the door. A man came and said, ‘I need you to come with me.’ The relative left with him, and she stayed behind.”

The patient reportedly told the hospice worker/nurse that news soon broke about a body being found in a burned home in Knottsville.

Both confessions, investigators say, were never properly preserved — a common challenge in older cases where information was relayed informally and records were kept differently

Payne said the Sheriff’s Office is currently pursuing two cold cases involving deathbed confessions, each with its own challenges.

Confession 1:

Who was involved in the murder of Terri Howell?

One of the two deathbed confessions under review

The hospice worker, Payne said, later searched online using the details the patient had provided.

“Everything she was saying was fitting into place,” he said. “She had no reason to believe it wasn’t the truth, and that’s when she contacted the Sheriff’s Office.”

But the confession was never formally documented,

recorded, or preserved in the case file.

“We don’t have the actual confession,” said DCSO Cold Case Detective Mike O’Herron, who joined the staff in late 2025. “We don’t have a name. We don’t know who the patient was. We don’t know which nurse or healthcare worker heard it.”

As a result, O’Herron said, the investigation has to move backward, starting not with a suspect, but with the person who heard the confession.

“My next step is trying to determine what hospice nurses or healthcare workers had contact with a patient who passed away in 2021 and may have made some sort of confession,” he said. “Then you work your way down the list and ask, ‘Does this ring a bell?’”

He acknowledged the task is daunting, but said a confession like that would be

hard to forget.

“If somebody told you something like this, it’s not something you hear every day,” O’Herron said. “I’m hoping it makes a light bulb go off.”

Confession 2:

Did a man really murder and bury his wife?

The second deathbed confession the Sheriff’s Office is investigating may involve a homicide that was never officially identified as one.

According to Youngman, authorities in another state notified Daviess County investigators of a deathbed confession in which a man claimed he murdered his wife decades ago, killing her in Florida and later transporting her to Daviess County for burial. Investigators believe the alleged homicide may have occurred in the late 1980s or early 1990s.

But nearly everything else is missing.

“We don’t have the body. We don’t have the person who gave the confession,” Youngman said. “And it did not match any open cases that anybody here was aware of.”

Payne said the allegation has circulated informally for years, but investigators are still trying to determine whether there is any hard documentation to support it.

“We’re still trying to confirm there was actually a homicide,” Payne said. “Is there any hard fact? Any documentation? As of yet, no — but it’s still actively being worked.”

O’Herron said when he first became involved, the information amounted to little more than a single sentence.

Now, investigators are digging through archival records, obituaries, and

historical addresses tied to the alleged suspect, trying to reconstruct who the victim may have been and whether she was ever reported missing.

“We’ll start with what we know about him through archives,” Youngman said. “Then we look at obituaries, previous spouses, anything that might give us a name to work with.”

Despite the gaps, Youngman said there are elements of the confession that suggest it may be credible.

“There are some supporting details that make us believe this very well may have happened,” he said. “If we locate a body, this is one that could move pretty quickly from there.”

For now, investigators are holding back specific names and locations as the case remains active.

A call to the public Investigators are now asking anyone who may have heard one of these confessions, even years ago, to come forward.

“If somebody told you this, you wouldn’t forget it,” O’Herron said.

Youngman emphasized that while justice is always the goal, closure matters deeply to families who have waited decades for answers.

“If we can tell survivors what happened, even if the suspect is dead, I still think there’s a high degree of success there,” he said.

Anyone with information related to either confession is encouraged to contact the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office at 270-685-8444.

“Sometimes,” Youngman said, “the truth doesn’t come out until the very end. And when it does, we want to make sure we don’t let it disappear again.”

BBQ beyond the Big Three

By CHRISTY CHANEY & CHEF WILL PRESTON

Owensboro is the selfproclaimed barbecue capital of the world, and honestly, we act like it. But this town’s love affair with smoke did not start with neon signs and dining rooms.

It began in the late 1800s with Harry Green, a pitmaster who cooked slow-pit barbecue in his backyard on 9th and Hall streets and became the go-to barbecuer for church picnics and community gatherings across Daviess County.

That early smoke laid the foundation for what became a deep-rooted barbecue culture, eventually rising into the three great pillars we know today: Old Hickory Bar-B-Q (1918), Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn (1963), and the “newcomer,” Ole South

Bar-B-Q (1995).

That’s more than a century of barbecue history before you even wander into the sacred territory of parish picnics and the legend of burgoo. With icons like those, you’d think the barbecue lane would be guarded by generations of sauce-stained loyalty.

But surprise: There is a whole world of smoked meat beyond the Big Three.

Roll Tide BBQ

Roll Tide BBQ is not hard to find. Just look for the pop-up tent, two folding tables, and one glorious smoker parked at the corner of West 4th Street and Jeff Place. That’s where you’ll find Mr. Greg Wallace quietly doing the Lord’s work in smoke.

then pulled delicately by hand from the bone.

Greg served me that chicken on a 2015 Super Bowl napkin. I carried it to my car like a delicate flower and then promptly devoured it like the monster I am, while driving it to Chef Will’s house to make sure he agreed with my assessment. Of course, he did, and from that moment, all we can think about is when we can go back.

Hillbilly’s BBQ

One common theme among Owensboro’s barbecue outliers is mobility, and Hillbilly’s is no exception. They roll in, fire up, and serve smoke like it’s their love language. Their menu is also a little fuller than some of the other spots, with pulled pork, pulled chicken, and brisket. But here’s the thing. Hillbilly’s doesn’t just serve barbecue on a bun. They give it options.

Sure, you can get a plate with two sides like a civilized person. Or you can choose chaos and mukbang your way through a stuffed baked potato, piled high with toppings and finished with the smoked meat of your choice. The same rule applies to nachos, mac and cheese, and even a quesadilla. Basically, you pick your preferred food vehicle, load it with a smoky passenger, and drive straight into gluttony.

We ordered the Big Boy Combo Platter so we could try everything, plus all the sides. The mac and cheese won Chef Will’s heart, but the baked beans were right behind it and fully prepared to throw hands for the title.

each. And the servings are huge, which means you will leave full, happy, and just slightly ashamed.

Blandford’s Family BBQ

Blandford’s made their very first Facebook post in June 2025, and they have been off to the races ever since. One minute, they are announcing themselves to the world, and the next, they are out here feeding the masses. Their menu is simple in the best way. They serve their smoked goodness mostly in the form of sandwiches and nachos, with your choice of pulled pork or pulled chicken.

For 11 years, Wallace has been honing his craft, and it shows. He offers a broad range: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, smoked bologna, and what I am fully prepared to declare the best barbecue chicken I have ever eaten. There are no seats. No ceremony. Just a man, his smoker, and a level of dedication that makes you question why you ever settled for anything less.

Let’s talk sauce. There is a worldwide, self-proclaimed debate on it, but here’s our Forks Up ruling: if you have to drench it in sauce, you missed the point of the smoke. That’s exactly where Greg’s chicken shines. It isn’t hiding under anything. It stands on its own, seasoned to perfection, kissed by smoke,

But, out of everything we ate, we believe the tacos are the best way to consume Hillbilly’s smoky abundance. The pickled red onions. The creamy coleslaw. It’s like every layer of flavor, texture, and temperature you could ever want shows up in taco form. Three tacos come in an order, and you can pick your poison or get one of

We tried enough to make a fair judgment, and let it be known: this was Chef Will’s favorite. The smoke was on point, the sauce was not too sweet, and the pull was exactly what you want. Not shredded into sadness. Not chopped into oblivion. Just right. Now, yes, this is technically a barbecue article, but in the land of sides, Blandford’s came to win. Their baked beans were thick and hearty, the kind that cling to a spoon for dear life, and my personal favorite side of the bunch. They are not the watery version you get out of the can with the dog mascot and a vague hint of disappointment.

But here is where Blandford’s really caught us off guard. They serve burgoo. Real burgoo. You can get an 8-ounce or 16-ounce serving, handed to you in a humble Styrofoam container, as if you were receiving a sacred offering. Thick, hearty, and packed with vegetables you can actually identify.

It feels like it has a story, like the recipe has been simmering in someone’s family for a long time before it ever landed on this menu.

In fact, I sought the truck out a second time just to get another “bigger” bowl. At that point, it

was not even about the barbecue anymore. I was on a burgoo mission, and Blandford’s understood the assignment.

Karch’s Smokehouse (formerly Vannatten’s Pitmaster BBQ)

Not every barbecue outlier rolls in quietly. Some bring a sauce legacy.

Tracking Vannatten’s BBQ takes effort. The trailer serves multiple counties, so catching it requires patience and a fair amount of social media stalking. We finally found it in the UniFirst parking lot in Owensboro, which felt right for barbecue worth chasing.

Launched in September 2024 by Stephen Vannatten and Kelly Wheatley, the trailer was initially intended to showcase a sauce brand years in the making. That sauce lineup includes original, sweet heat, and hot and spicy, and it quickly built a following.

The barbecue offerings are simple. You can get pork, brisket, or mutton chopped and served on a bun with your choice from that infamous sauce lineup. Feel free to pile on crisp raw onion or dill pickle slices. The sides,

voted most likely to be served on a barbecue truck, show up in full force: coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. And if you are feeling frisky, the hot dog of the barbecue world, smoked bologna, is ready to go, too.

As of Jan. 20, the trailer entered a new chapter under new owners Rob and Carla Karch. But don’t worry, you will recognize them. They have been running this truck for the sauce mogul for a while now, so they have the BBQ down pat. The menu and sauces remain the same, the chase is still on, and that is part of the appeal.

Shiloh’s Lounge & Grill

Shiloh’s is not a food truck or a parking-lot situation, but make no mistake, there is still a little tracking involved. Smoked meat and their soul food menu are not an everyday occurrence, so you have to know when to show up and what to ask for. We were there strictly on a smoked-meat mission.

On this visit, we tried the pulled pork, the smoked wings, and the ribs. The smoke was present, the meat was solid, and everything was prepared with care. Sometimes barbecue is less

about fireworks and more about comfort, and this landed firmly in the dependable category.

That said, this is not a oneand-done situation. The menu has more smoked options, including the oxtail and the turkey leg, but there is only so much two people can responsibly eat in a single sitting. We will absolutely be back to continue the research, because Shiloh’s has more to say.

Bologna

And then there is the great unifier of this entire list: bologna. Vannatten’s had it. Blandford’s had it. Hillbilly’s had it. Roll Tide had it. Shiloh’s did not, which feels less like an omission and more like a personal challenge.

This humble tube of mystery perfection continues to show up wherever serious smoke lives, and we may have to circle back to a few of these spots just to give it the respect it clearly demands. Home smokers and fundraisers have long understood its power. Smoked bologna feeds crowds, raises money. Sometimes your purchase even supports a local baseball team, which means you can feel good about yourself while ingesting nitrates. If that is not community barbecue, we don’t know what is.

So what does this all mean?

Owensboro’s barbecue story did not stop with the Big Three. It just kept growing, branching

out into parking lots, trailers, side streets, and schedules you have to track down on social media.

Sometimes it shows up under a pop-up tent. Sometimes it rolls across county lines. Sometimes it requires patience, timing, and a little effort.

But that is the beauty of it. Barbecue here is not just about history. It is about people who care enough to keep tending the fire, even when the spotlight is already crowded.

Chef Will and I may be fully barbecued out for the moment, the kind of full where you swear you never want to see another rib again. But we know better. There are summer Parish picnics still to taste, backyard smokers quietly plotting their move into the spotlight, and frankly, I need another bite of that chicken from the corner of West 4th and Jeff Place. Plus, we know there are more local spots with barbecue to be tried; don’t worry, we’re coming for you soon.

Barbecue is a tradition in this town. Maybe it is self-proclaimed, but after eating our way through it, we believe the title is well-deserved.

The Heart Behind the Hustle

Behind every successful business is someone whose passion, grit, and dedication keep things running — often without the spotlight. The Heart Behind the Hustle shines a light on those people, sharing the stories of the hard work and heart that drive our local businesses forward.

Mandy Collins: Jewelry is more than a career; it’s a lifelong calling

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

For Mandy Collins, the jewelry business was never something she simply stepped into as an adult. It was part of her childhood, her education, and ultimately her identity.

“I grew up in the jewelry industry. It’s quite literally woven into my earliest memories,” Collins said.

As a child, Collins often accompanied her father, Lance Embry, to work, spending time at his bench and pretending to repair jewelry. What began as imaginative play soon became real responsibility.

“By the age of 12, I was regularly helping out at Brinker’s Jewelers, spending

summers filing paperwork and even cleaning bathrooms,” she said.

By 15, Collins had moved onto the showroom floor, learning how to work with customers and guide them through meaningful purchases. One of the biggest moments of her career came when she was still a teen, helping someone else make their own major decision: picking out the perfect engagement ring.

“When I turned 17, I was trusted to sell my first engagement ring, a moment that was equally nerveracking for both me and the future groom,” Collins said. “With guidance, patience, and support, I successfully helped him choose the perfect ring. From that moment on, I was hooked.”

Helping people find jewelry that marked major moments quickly became the most rewarding part of the work.

“I loved helping people find something meaningful, whether it was a gift for themselves, a loved one, or a future lifelong partner,” she said.

While attending college, Collins’ responsibilities continued to grow. She handled inventory, entered bills, and gained hands-on experience in nearly every part of the business.

“Seeing how all the pieces fit together gave me a true understanding of what it takes to run a successful company,” she said.

Despite her deep roots in the industry, Collins said she did not originally see jewelry as her lifelong career. That changed midway through college, when her father had the opportunity to purchase the second Brinker’s Jewelers location at Wesleyan Park Plaza.

“He asked if I would be willing to help with bookkeeping and inventory,

and I jumped at the chance,” Collins said.

That decision marked a turning point. Her involvement with Lance & Co. Jewelers expanded rapidly as she began buying inventory, managing financials, and

“

I loved helping people find something meaningful, whether it was a gift for themselves, a loved one, or a future lifelong partner.

learning custom jewelry design.

“The more I learned, the more passionate I became,” she said. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered a career that aligns so closely with my father’s lifelong passion.”

Since becoming an

owner, Collins has focused on investing not only in the business but also in the people behind it. Lance & Co. recently hired a second master jeweler to increase capacity and maintain quality.

“Clint brings not only master-level expertise but also experience as a hand engraver, a service we’re excited to offer our customers in the near future,” she said.

She said continued education and training remain priorities for the growing team, which now works with CAD-assisted custom designs and the latest repair and engraving technology.

“At Lance & Co. Jewelers, exceptional customer care and superior products always come first,” Collins said.

Although neither Collins nor Embry are Owensboro natives, both moved to the community in the early 2000s and said the reception they received made a lasting impact.

“The welcome we received was nothing short of remarkable,” Collins said. “This community has supported us every step of the way, allowing us to grow and succeed beyond what we could have imagined.”

That support has fueled a strong commitment to giving back.

“Our love for Owensboro runs deep, and we are passionate about giving back whenever possible,” she said. “From donating pieces to local charities, schools, and fundraisers to sponsoring school events, we are proud to be an active part of the incredible community we are honored to call home.”

Now, nearly two decades after Lance & Co. Jewelers first opened its doors, Collins continues to carry forward a family legacy shaped by craftsmanship, connection, and a deep appreciation for the community that helped it flourish.

Cruz Edwards

Owensboro teen’s bluegrass talent strikes a chord on TikTok

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

Cruz Edwards never expected a casual jam session in a friend’s living room to launch him into the national spotlight, but that’s exactly what happened when the 14-year-old Daviess County High School freshman posted a TikTok video of himself on guitar and bandmate Parker Malone on fiddle performing “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” The post has since gone viral, racking up more than 10.4 million views and 2.4 million likes.

“It was just a practice at Levi’s house,” Edwards said. “I threw my phone on the table, and we played. Didn’t think anything of it, and then it blew up.”

The viral video helped push Edwards’ TikTok following to more than 65,700, with his content earning over 2.8 million likes in total. It also opened the door to a string of new opportunities, including a performance at the Grand Ole Opry and an interview with producers from a major television network.

From mandolin to the main stage

Edwards picked up his first instrument around age 9, when his father brought home a mandolin he had as a child. Initially more interested in ’90s country artists like Alabama and George Strait, Edwards didn’t realize the mandolin was typically used in bluegrass.

“I started taking lessons with Randy Lanham, and he’s the one who introduced me to bluegrass,” he said. “From there, it just kicked off.”

Edwards co-founded a band called the Blue Bridge Boys with his best friend, Noah Mason, in the fourth grade. They later added Malone and bassist Levi Housner. All four are from Owensboro and regularly perform together at community events, including the Lanham Brothers Jamboree and programs at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum.

“The Bluegrass Museum has been such a great resource for us,” Edwards said. “They’ve given us so many opportunities.”

Going viral and staying consistent

Although the band’s TikTok success started slowly — with early videos getting a few thousand views — a video from the Jamboree featuring the group dressed as musical legends picked up steam with more than 800,000 views. That momentum set the stage

for their breakout video featuring a fiery fiddle and guitar duet.

“I love high-energy stuff like that,” Edwards said. “But I also love singing and songwriting. That’s probably my favorite part.”

Edwards credits mentors, including Lanham, Chris Armstrong, and Chris Joslin, for guiding his journey. He also draws inspiration from artists such as Billy Strings, Alan Jackson, and Johnny Cash, whom he says he’s distantly related to through the Carter family.

“It’s crazy to think this is how a lot of artists make it now,” he said. “At my age, social media is really the only way. You just have to stay consistent.”

He now posts four to five times a week, often including his bandmates. Most of the videos are simple: a phone on a tripod, no microphones or added tech — just raw, acoustic music.

Big goals and a grounded heart

Despite his age, Edwards has clear ambitions to pursue music professionally. He hopes to continue evolving, mixing bluegrass with other genres and keeping his performances high-energy.

“Today’s bluegrass has so many layers,” he said. “Some of it is folky, some is more upbeat. I love it all.”

Edwards and Malone will share the stage at the Grand Ole Opry in April. Each won separate competitions that earned them a spot, and rather than perform individually, they decided to team up for a medley that blends “Hallelujah I’m Ready to Go” with “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”

“They wanted us to include that one,” Edwards said. “So we figured we’d go all in.”

While Edwards can’t yet collect money through TikTok because of age restrictions, he and his family are exploring ways to navigate that process. In the meantime, they’re simply enjoying the opportunities that come with sharing music.

“We’ve had some interest from some producers of television shows,” he said. “There’s nothing official yet, but we’re hopeful.”

Even with all the buzz, Edwards still values playing for local audiences, especially performing at churches and nursing homes — something Lanham encouraged early on.

“Schedules have gotten tougher, but we still try to do as many as we can during the summer,” he said.

Whether it’s online or on stage, Edwards is focused on school, songwriting, and sharing his love for music with as many people as possible.

Inside the quiet intensity of the Owensboro Duplicate Bridge Club

By RYAN RICHARDSON

On most Monday nights in Owensboro, a room full of people gathers around card tables in near silence. Not out of boredom, but concentration. No music plays. No one scrolls a phone. Eyes stay fixed on 13 cards and the four that hit the table each trick. Then, as soon as a round ends, the quiet breaks into laughter, chatter, and good-natured debate before the next set of opponents sits down.

It looks simple from the outside: just a card game. But inside the Owensboro Duplicate Bridge Club, every decision is measured, every bid carries meaning, and every play is tracked, remembered, and compared. Players aren’t just trying to beat the pair across from them. They’re competing against everyone else in the room who will play the exact same hand later that night.

That structure is what makes duplicate bridge different, and what has kept the local club active for more than 60 years.

The club was incorporated in 1962, though organized bridge play in Owensboro began even earlier. Today, the group has just over 100 active members and hosts three games each week at the Odd Fellows Lodge on

Breckenridge Street. Sessions run Monday evenings from about 6-9:30 p.m. and Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 1-4:30 p.m., with players arriving early to visit before cards are in play.

Club President Jeff Ebelhar said many people are familiar with social or “rubber” bridge, where each deal is unique and luck of the cards can heavily influence results. Duplicate bridge removes much of that randomness. Hands are pre-dealt and placed into boards, then passed from table to table so multiple partnerships play the identical cards. Scores are later compared using a matchpoint system based on relative performance.

“In duplicate bridge, you’re not just playing the two people at your table,” Ebelhar said. “You’re competing against every other pair that played that same deal to see who got the best outcome from those cards.”

A typical session includes between 22 and 27 boards. Partnerships stay together throughout the game while opponents rotate. Players may sit NorthSouth or East-West and move accordingly after each round. The goal is consistency: bidding accurately, counting cards, man-

me every time.”

Skill levels vary widely, and the club is structured to keep newer players engaged. Those with fewer than 100 masterpoints — the rating currency of competitive bridge — can play in a novice section, where they compete only against similarly ranked players. Once they cross that threshold, they move into the open division alongside more experienced competitors.

That progression helps prevent beginners from being overwhelmed and gives them time to build confidence.

“We want people to enjoy it and stick with it,” Ebelhar said. “If you throw someone brand new against a Life Master who’s been playing for decades, that’s discouraging. The novice side gives them a place to learn and compete at the same time.”

ships discuss hands, compare choices, and occasionally replay pivotal moments. Many players schedule regular partnerships and build long-term playing relationships, including married couples who team up at the table.

Ebelhar said duplicate bridge demands more frequent play than many expect.

“I played social bridge for years, maybe 10 times a year,” he said. “But duplicate is different. If you want to improve, you really need to play multiple times a week. It’s like golf, where the people who are good at it play often.”

aging risk, and squeezing out extra tricks whenever possible.

“It’s a room full of card counters,” Ebelhar said. “If you’re going to be any good at it, you have to keep track of what’s been played — how many hearts are gone, whether a high card is still out, things like that. It really exercises your brain.”

Attendance varies by day, but Monday night is typically the largest session, often drawing 60 or more players and filling 15 or more tables. Recent peak nights have approached 70 players. Wednesday and Friday afternoon games are smaller but steady, commonly drawing 40-50 participants. Because many members are retired, daytime games remain popular, while Monday nights attract those who still work during the day.

The age range stretches wider than many might expect. The youngest regular player is a college student from the University of Evansville. The oldest active member is in her 90s and has belonged to the club for roughly six decades.

“She’s one of the best players we have,” Ebelhar said. “I joke that I hate sitting down at a table against her because she beats

The club is affiliated with the American Contract Bridge League, the national governing body for duplicate bridge in the United States. Players earn masterpoints based on performance, with larger events awarding more points. Achieving Life Master status requires at least 500 points across different event categories, including higher-value tournament finishes.

Approximately 25 Owensboro members have reached Life Master rank. Earning that level typically takes years of steady play and frequent tournament participation.

At the rate many club games award points — often just one or two per strong finish — progress can be slow but steady. Tournament success can accelerate that pace, but it requires travel and tougher competition. The Owensboro club belongs to a regional unit that includes Evansville, Vincennes, and Jasper, Indiana, along with Madisonville, Hopkinsville, and Clarksville, Tennessee. Players from those cities often travel to Owensboro to compete, and local members attend regional events.

A regional tournament known as the Sweetheart Swiss is scheduled to be held in Owensboro in February, drawing competitive players from across the unit.

Despite the competitive framework, members describe the culture as welcoming and social. Between rounds, the room fills with conversation. Partner-

The club’s membership dipped during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person gatherings paused and some players were hesitant to return immediately. Since then, participation has steadily rebounded, with table counts growing and lesson programs restarting.

Beginning bridge lessons are scheduled to launch in March, open to anyone interested in learning the game. Organizers say no prior duplicate experience is required, though comfort with card games helps. Historically, about half of those who start lessons continue into regular play after experiencing the competitive format, Ebelhar said.

While strategy and scoring drive the game, members say community is what sustains the club. One example is the group’s annual Christmas fundraiser, which supports St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter. What began about a decade ago as a small holiday effort has grown significantly, with recent events raising thousands of dollars. This past year’s fundraiser collected roughly $8,000 for the shelter.

“It’s a generous group,” Ebelhar said. “People care about each other and about the community.”

For newcomers walking in for the first time, the scene can feel intense: rows of tables, score slips, bidding boxes, and unfamiliar terminology. But regulars say the structure quickly becomes familiar, and the challenge is part of the appeal.

“It’s not just playing cards,” Ebelhar said. “It’s thinking, planning, remembering, adjusting. You’re working with a partner, and you’re always trying to do a little better than the last hand. That’s what keeps people coming back.”

Photos by Lauren Howe

Hampton named executive director of H.L. Neblett Community Center

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

Carltez Hampton, a 17year veteran of the H.L. Neblett Community Center, has been named the organization’s next executive director, continuing a journey that began behind the wheel of a van transporting children to and from school.

Hampton has served in several roles at the center over the years, most recently as interim executive director. He said when the Neblett board offered him the permanent position, it was a no-brainer.

“I’m here to stay. As long as the good Lord keeps waking me up, I’ll be here every day,” he said.

Hampton said his immediate focus is on strengthening

existing programs, supporting staff, and ensuring families receive high-quality child care while reconnecting the center with the broader community.

Hampton first joined the center more than 17 years ago as a van driver. Within days, he took on maintenance work after a staff member retired, eventually moving into child care leadership roles while attending college. He later became assistant daycare director, then daycare director, before stepping into the interim executive director role.

“I was kind of known as the person who would raise my hand if something needed to be done,” Hampton said. “They knew if

nobody else would do it, I would.” Hampton said his motivation for working at the center is deeply personal.

“I’ve got a troubled past. I made a lot of bad decisions,” he said. “While I was incarcerated, I told myself that when I got out, I wanted to make a difference in kids’ lives so they wouldn’t make the same mistakes I did. Seventeen years later, I’m still committed to helping these youngsters make better choices.”

Though Hampton did not grow up attending the Neblett Center directly, he said he frequently spent time there as a youth and worked at the center briefly after high school. After

his release from incarceration, returning to Neblett was one of his first stops.

Despite encouragement from colleagues and mentors, Hampton said he never envisioned himself leading the organization.

“I never wanted to, and honestly, I was fearful,” he said. “This center has one heck of a legacy. The last thing I would want is for it to crumble under my leadership. But some people saw something in me that I didn’t even see in myself.”

Hampton cited longtime leaders Greg Black and Olga McKissick as key mentors, along with Keith Cottoner and Rick Searcy.

“I try to lead the way they led,” Hampton said. “I’ll never be able to match them, but I take what I’ve learned from them and apply it every day.”

“

I’m here to stay. As long as the good Lord keeps waking me up, I’ll be here every day.

Founded in 1936 by Hattie Louise Neblett and her husband Dr. Regional Claypool Neblett, the H.L. Neblett Community Center is approaching its 90th year of service. Mrs. Neblett, an educator, recognized the need for a safe space and structured programming for Black youth in Owensboro. At the same time, Dr. Neblett served the community as a physician and first responder.

“My biggest fear was letting Dr. and Mrs. Neblett and their legacy down,” Hampton said. “They saw a need for youth to have a safe place

to come, and that’s what I want to continue. I want to make them proud.”

Hampton emphasized that the center serves more than just youth, offering programs for all ages across Owensboro.

“We’re committed to Owensboro, not just this neighborhood,” he said.

The center operates recreation programs, which have recently been expanded to include children as young as 8, as well as a mature adult program known as Morning Joe. The adult program meets twice a month and features speakers, outings, and social gatherings. Hampton also pointed to partnerships that provide free access to fitness facilities and wellness programming.

Among the initiatives currently underway are new playground installations, a food distribution partnership that will provide weekly assistance to community members, a health-focused competition in collaboration with Owensboro Health, and expanded efforts to address mental health needs among both youth and adults.

Hampton hopes residents will visit the center and learn about the resources available.

“A lot of people don’t even know we exist,” he said. “Come check us out. We’ve got exercise rooms, dance rooms, yoga rooms, meeting spaces, and cafeterias. This is the community’s house, too.”

The Neblett Center’s tagline, “Changing Lives in Changing Times,” remains central to Hampton’s vision.

“That’s all we want to do,” he said. “Change lives and help people meet their goals. If we can help, we will. If we can’t, we’ll find someone who can.”

Meet the candidates Election coverage begins in this issue

This issue marks the start of Owensboro Times’ expanded election coverage in print. Our goal is simple: help voters quickly see who is running, understand what offices are on the ballot, and know where to find reliable, neutral information in the weeks ahead.

This issue’s election section features only headshots and is designed as a visual starting point for voters. More detailed information, including expanded bios and general voting information, will continue to roll out both online and in future print editions so readers can make informed decisions at the ballot box.

Coverage will follow OT’s standard newsroom approach of being factual, neutral, and clearly sourced, with equal treatment for candidates within the same race whenever possible.

Keep up with our full election coverage here:

OT Primary Election Town Hall set for May Community invited to submit questions

Submit your questions here:

Owensboro Times will host a Primary Election Town Hall on May 12, giving voters an opportunity to hear directly from candidates. We’re inviting residents to submit questions for consideration now so community priorities can be addressed directly during the event.

Final details, including which races will be featured and the event format, will be announced in the coming weeks.

The Town Hall will be held at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum. Candidates will be given the general topics ahead of time, but specific questions will be asked for the first time during the event.

Introducing the 2026 political candidates

Introducing the 2026 political candidates

$43 million jail renovation to modernize operations, reduce overcrowding at Daviess County Detention Center

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

The Daviess County Detention Center is preparing for a $43 million renovation and expansion that Jailer Art Maglinger said will modernize operations, address overcrowding, and bring the facility up to current safety and accessibility standards. The project is expected to take around 3 years and will allow the jail to remain operational throughout.

The overhaul will focus on Building 1, the main structure originally constructed in 2001. The plan includes adding 125 bunks, installing a fully operational kitchen and laundry area, expanding program and recreation space, upgrading surveillance infrastructure, and making key ADA and code compliance improvements.

“It’s intimidating, but it will also be exciting to see the finished project,” Maglinger said. “This allows us to get at least 25 more years out of the current building while addressing the critical areas that have created operational inefficiencies.”

Daviess County Fiscal Court in March 2023 unanimously approved a comprehensive architectural/ engineering facility assessment report, which was completed by JKS

Architecture. Maglinger said the report found Building 1 was nearing the end of its useful life and needed major upgrades.

He added that the option for renovation was significantly less costly than other options for building a new facility. Fiscal Court voted unanimously in November 2024 to contract with JKS for the renovation project and design services.

One of the most pressing issues prompting the renovation was the jail’s inefficient kitchen setup. Currently, all meals are prepared in a small kitchen located in Building 3 and transported by trailer to inmates in Building 1. Laundry services operate similarly. The new plan will bring both functions into the main building to reduce inefficiencies and improve security, Maglinger said.

“Food quality suffers, and it also increases the risk of contraband,” Maglinger said. “We are on borrowed time with our current system, and doing nothing is not a wise option.”

Overcrowding is another longstanding problem the renovation seeks to address. While Building 1 currently has 482 bunks, Maglinger said certain specialized housing units, such as protective custody,

suicide watch, and medical segregation, remain over capacity. The additional 125 bunks will bring Building 1’s capacity to 607 and provide more flexibility for housing federal and state inmates.

“Even when our overall population numbers are down, we’re still overcrowded in certain housing units due to issues of inmate classification and conflicts,” he said.

Maglinger said federal and state inmates provide essential revenue to help offset the jail’s $11.5 million operating budget. Currently, the jail houses approximately 350 county inmates, 90 federal inmates, and 150 state inmates.

Maglinger said these dynamics fluctuate, but have a big impact on the county’s budget. Housing federal and state inmates helps reduce the jail’s expenses.

“This summer, we hit a record high of over 400 county inmates, which is the sole statutory responsibility of our county,” he said. “People sometimes say we’re a forprofit jail, but the county subsidizes the jail over $3 million each year for the facility to be in operation.”

The renovation also includes improvements to the sally port,

raising clearance from 10 to 14 feet to allow emergency vehicles such as fire trucks or buses in the event of a mass evacuation.

All new programming areas and recreation yards will have restrooms and showers, allowing for long-term programs such as the substance abuse program to take place entirely within one secured space. The renovation also provides a contingency opportunity to consolidate all staff, inmates, and operations into one building in the event of an emergency situation.

A larger program space that will also be used as the chapel with restrooms is included in the plans. Maglinger said the new space will be significantly larger than the current chapel and will better accommodate programs such as Residents Encounter Christ that meet for a full day.

Maglinger said a critical part of the expansion is that it allows the jail to stay operational during the construction period. If the facility had to shut down, Maglinger estimated it would cost more than $5 million per year to house inmates at other jails.

That excludes other expenses related to medical, transportation, and other lost revenue lines from the jail not being in operation. Closing the jail entirely would also displace jail staff and, in turn, disrupt local law enforcement and court operations.

“We would have to contract with at least 10 different counties, and maybe even go into Indiana to accommodate the number of county inmates that we house,” he said. “It is in the county’s best interest to remain open during the construction period,” Maglinger said.

The project is still in the design phase, with construction expected to begin this spring. The first phase will focus on the new addition before interior renovations begin. Maglinger said the team expects the full project to take between 24 and 36 months, depending on construction conditions and phasing.

“This project is vital to our facility operations and the public safety of our community,” Maglinger said. “We want to continue to display good stewardship for our county.”

Welcome to WellBeing, where we share what’s happening in and around Owensboro Health.

Congenital Heart Program expands care in Owensboro

Four years ago, Owensboro Health welcomed the Joint Heart Program to its Pleasant Valley Medical Office Building, bringing expert congenital heart care closer to home. Today, that program is growing. The clinic, a collaboration between Owensboro Health, Cincinnati Children’s, and Golasino Children’s at UK Joint Pediatric and Congenital Heart Program, now sees patients two days a week instead of one. Three cardiologists diagnose and treat a full range of heart conditions for children, teens, and adults born with heart defects, right here in Owensboro, saving local families countless hours of travel.

For patients like Grayson Austin, that convenience has made all the difference.

At two months old, he was diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect — a large hole between the two lower chambers of his heart. He needed surgery, but first had to grow stronger.

Dr. Brad Keller, pediatric cardiologist and medical director of Cincinnati Children’s Greater Louisville and Western Kentucky Practice, started him on medication and admitted him to Cincinnati Children’s for nutritional support before surgery. After surgery, he was able to have his frequent followup appointments at the joint heart program clinic located at Owensboro Health.

Today, Grayson is 5. He sees Dr. Keller once or twice a year for check-ups, and doesn’t have to travel to do so.

“He’s doing great,” said his mom, Julie Green. “You’d never know anything was wrong. His scar is barely visible. He’s in preschool, has lots of friends,

and loves Monster Jam and CoComelon.”

Julie says having local access to care is life-changing.

“He was diagnosed with autism last year, so being able to go right down the road makes a big difference,” she said.

Dr. Keller agrees, saying, “Seeing patients close to home reduces anxiety and increases confidence.”

Mark Marsh, president and CEO of Owensboro Health, said the expansion reflects the health system’s commitment to meeting community needs.

“We know families want the best care without the burden of travel,” Marsh said. “Growing this program means more children and adults with congenital heart conditions can get expert care close to home.”

Dr. Keller said studies show some families won’t travel more than 25 miles for specialty care. Without local access, many patients would go untreated.

Now, with the congenital heart clinic open multiple days each week, more families can get the care they need without leaving town.

The expanded services include Fetal Cardiology Evaluation with Dr. Jael Cowan as a collaboration between Owensboro Health Maternal Fetal Medicine and Cincinnati Children’s, as well was monthly Preventive Cardiology Evaluations with Dr. Derek Weyhrauch in partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Center for Better Health and Nutrition.

“We’re stronger together,” Dr. Keller said. “There’s no doubt about that.”

For more information, visit OwensboroHealth.org/ CongenitalHeart.

Owensboro Health Regional Hospital Echo Team celebrates 10-year accreditation milestone

The Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) proudly recognizes Owensboro Health Regional Hospital’s Echo team for achieving the 10-Year Milestone Recognition in 2025.

The Echocardiography team has proudly maintained continuous accreditation in Adult Echocardiography since 2015. a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care.

“IAC accreditation reflects our team’s commitment to excellence. It means our patients can trust that every echocardiogram is performed with the highest standards of quality, accuracy, and care,” said Katie Fort, Manager of Cardiac Imaging and Diagnostic Services.

Fort said the Echo team adheres to evidence-based best practices daily, including clear communication with

providers, accurate and consistent documentation, and ongoing quality reviews.

“We prioritize patient-centered care and technical excellence, ensuring that each echocardiogram is reliable, meaningful, and supportive of confident clinical decision-making,” Fort said.

This achievement reflects the team’s dedication to delivering

accurate, timely, and compassionate cardiovascular diagnostics.

Equipped with advanced imaging technology and staffed by highly skilled sonographers and boardcertified physicians, the team ensures every patient receives precise readings and personalized treatment recommendations. Learn more at OwensboroHealth.org/HeartMonth.

Owensboro Health Expands surgical services with addition of three specialists

Owensboro Health recently announced the addition of three boardcertified surgeons to its medical staff at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, significantly expanding access to specialized surgical care in the region.

The new physicians bring advanced expertise in hepato-pancreato-biliary, cardiothoracic, and neurosurgery, eliminating the need for many patients to travel long distances for complex procedures.

Dr. Kyra Folkert joins Owensboro Health, bringing advanced expertise in hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgery to the system. She offers specialized care for conditions affecting the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

Dr. Folkert completed a fellowship in HPB surgery at Indiana University and a general surgery residency at

Western Michigan University. She earned her medical degree from George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dr. Folkert will see patients at Owensboro Health Medical Group Surgical Specialists, with locations at Ridgecrest Medical Park in Owensboro and Riverfront Medical Building in Tell City.

Dr. Jeffrey Silver, a cardiothoracic surgeon with more than 25 years of experience, will expand Owensboro Health’s heart and lung surgery program alongside Dr. Tony Mozer. Dr. Silver performs advanced procedures, including coronary artery bypass operations, valve replacements, and lung resections. He will practice at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital.

Dr. J. Keith Preston brings expertise in cranial and spinal surgery

to Owensboro Health Neurosurgery, including specialized procedures such as vertebral kyphoplasty. Dr. Preston earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and completed his neurosurgery residency at the University of Wisconsin. He will see patients at Owensboro Health Neurosurgery, located at Owensboro Health Healthplex.

“These additions reflect our ongoing commitment to bringing world-class surgical care to our community,” said OH President and CEO Mark Marsh. “Patients can now receive advanced, specialized treatment close to home.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients should contact their primary care physician or visit OwensboroHealth.org.

Owensboro Knights create expanding sports opportunities for homeschool athletes

Stay in the game with OT sports coverage

Owensboro Times delivers online daily coverage of high school sports, including recaps, in-depth game reports, and exclusive athlete features. Whether it’s a buzzer-beater, a recordbreaking performance, or a rising star, we’ve got it covered.

Catch all the action at OwensboroTimes.com/ Sports and @owensborosports on Facebook and X for even more updates!

By MAX RAYMAN

Finding a competitive sports league can be a challenge for some homeschool students, especially after aging out of local youth programs.

Charlie Fogle faced that exact reality after he was no longer eligible to play basketball in the Owensboro Upwards league, leaving him wondering whether his playing days were over.

That changed when friends told him about the Owensboro Knights Christian Homeschool Program, a basketball team launched in the fall of 2018 to give homeschool athletes a place to compete.

“Playing for the Knights has been one of the best decisions I ever made,” Fogle said. “Building the friendships and brotherhood between the players and watching everyone grow closer

together has been really special. It’s been a joy to play with everybody.”

The foundation of a growing program

Owensboro Knights Christian Homeschool Program was founded by Dan Bitters in 2018, when his then-13year-old son, Blake, needed a place to play basketball.

“He had been playing in previous seasons for a local, Christian school that had allowed homeschool players to play for them,” Bitters said. “I was aware of other Owensboro homeschool athletes who also wanted to play on a competitive basketball team. At that time, only larger cities had multiple, competitive homeschool athletic programs.”

Evansville had a homeschool basketball program, Bitters said, and the family briefly considered commuting. Instead, they decided to build something locally.

The Knights began as a basketball-only program with six players and Bitters as head coach. Over the course of the first season, 12 additional boys joined from the homeschool community. The team played 10 JV/varsity games and 10 middle school games, with a roster made up primarily of middle schoolers.

“I was really nervous about going against these bigger kids, but it was really fun,” Fogle said. “If I did something wrong, it was just a learning experience to let me know what I can do better and what I need to work on as I get older.”

By the 2019-20 season, the program had grown to 20 players, enough to field a middle school team along with JV and varsity squads. After going winless the year before, the high school team won seven games, while the middle school team went from .500 to finishing with a winning record.

In the 2021-22 season, the Knights joined the Kentucky Christian School Athletic

Association, which includes private Christian schools and homeschool programs from across the state. That year, the JV team placed third at the State Division I Tournament.

That was just the beginning of the Knights’ rise to the top.

The following season, the varsity team won a divisional national championship at the National Christian School Athletic Association tournament. JV captured the State Division I championship, and the middle school team claimed the KCSAA state title.

Today, the Knights basketball program includes 32 athletes across four age groups. Since 2024, the program has been certified to compete against KHSAA schools. Home games are played at venues including Bellevue Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, and Heritage Baptist Church.

While the varsity team took a step back after graduating seven seniors, the program has recorded 91 wins over the past

four years. Bitters said he expects strong showings in JV and state tournament play.

Expanding beyond basketball

Plans to expand into baseball began in the spring of 2020, though the inaugural season was delayed a year due to COVID-19. When the team debuted, it included 16 players and fielded both JV and varsity schedules.

Since then, baseball participation has grown to maintain at least 24 athletes, with the addition of a middle school team. Training begins in February, with the season starting in March.

Senior Wyatt Brown, now in his fifth year with the Knights, has watched the program grow firsthand.

“The Knights are growing very, very quickly,” Brown said.

Girls’ fastpitch softball was added three years ago, starting with 16 athletes and seeing immediate success.

“With Keith Mahaney leading the program, they picked up some big wins and played several KHSAA schools,” Bitters said. “The varsity finished with a winning record, and the JV team also performed well.”

Since then, the softball program has earned wins against Murray High School’s varsity team, Ohio County’s JV team, and Perry Central’s JV team.

In 2023, the Knights launched a volleyball program, which has grown to more than 30 athletes and is coming off a winning season. Bitters said the team has made significant strides over the past two years.

“There are a lot of younger kids we call the Junior Knights, and watching them develop is pretty amazing. As a whole, the Knights won’t turn anyone away.”

This past fall, the Knights added boys’ soccer, fielding a roster of 20 seventh- through 12th-grade players. Coached by John Mark Tyler and Terry Ekbundit, the team competed against private schools, homeschool programs, and

Evansville-area recreational and club teams.

“The Knights have just grown a lot,” said Josiah Houston, a senior and member of the basketball team. “It’s really cool to see that a lot of kids are getting opportunities to play different sports instead of just basketball.”

The Knights have no plans of slowing down. Bitters said there is interest in launching a girls’ basketball team, as well as forming a Western Kentucky homeschool football league that could include programs in Paducah, Hopkinsville, Bowling Green, and Owensboro.

For Fogle, the impact of the Knights goes beyond wins and losses.

“It’s been really amazing meeting everybody,” he said. “I still talk to and hang out with some of the guys who have already graduated from the Knights. Forming friendships and brotherhood that won’t ever be broken, I think that’s more important than anything.”

Top stories you may have missed

Missed a headline or two? Here’s your quick catch-up on the stories Owensboro’s been talking about. For daily updates, follow us online or subscribe to our free email newsletter.

Lanham, Malone reflect on surreal White House performance

Owensboro fiddler Parker Malone and instructor Randy Lanham reflect on their unforgettable two-hour Christmas music performance at the White House.

Trinity and St. Mary of the Woods break ground on new school facility

Trinity High School and St. Mary of the Woods School have broken ground on a new joint facility, marking progress in their campaign to modernize campus space.

Local Christmas light display to be featured in upcoming film

A local Christmas light display is being featured in an upcoming film, highlighting the festive attraction as part of a holidaythemed production.

2 take plea deals in infant murder case; parents still face charges

Two of four charged in 8-month-old Miya Rudd’s 2024 death took plea deals; prosecutors filed aggravating-circumstance notices against her parents.

Colonel House Motel to be demolished as City pivots to broader redevelopment

goals

Owensboro will demolish the Colonel House Motel after renovation plans failed, clearing the site for new redevelopment as part of broader neighborhood revitalization efforts.

Officials review five potential I-165 interchange sites

Officials are studying five possible sites for a new I-165 interchange between Owensboro and Hartford to improve access and safety along the 23-mile stretch with no exits.

Burns Middle School Cheer wins National Championship

Burns Middle School’s cheer team won its first-ever national title in the UCA Junior High Non-Tumble Game Day division in Orlando, beating 17 teams.

Owensboro High School’s Evan Hampton named Kentucky Mr. Football

Owensboro High School senior running back Evan Hampton was named the 2025 Kentucky Mr. Football after a dominant season that included MVP honors in the 5A state title win.

New Dunkin’ store to include modern features, faster

service

Owensboro’s Dunkin’ franchise owners are building a new store behind their existing location, adding upgrades like a double-lane drive-thru and expanded mobile ordering.

What’s going

Owensboro’s can’t-miss events this season!

FEBRUARY 28

Steel Magnolias

RIVERPARK CENTER

Set in a small-town Louisiana beauty salon, Steel Magnolias follows six Southern women whose regular gatherings reveal deep friendships, humor, and resilience. The comedy-drama explores life’s joys and hardships through candid conversations, sharp wit, and moments of emotional depth.

MARCH 5-14

Burger Week 2026

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Burger Week returns with a 10-day celebration of locally crafted burgers across participating restaurants. Each featured burger is offered at a fixed price of $8, encouraging diners to revisit favorites and sample new creations while supporting local eateries.

MARCH 6

Dan Tyminski Band

BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM

Dan Tyminski brings his acclaimed bluegrass sound to the stage with the Dan Tyminski Band. Known for awardwinning work across bluegrass and mainstream music, Tyminski’s live performances showcase virtuosity, tradition, and contemporary energy.

MARCH 7

Tribute to John Williams

RIVERPARK CENTER

This Owensboro Symphony concert pays tribute to legendary composer John Williams, featuring music from iconic films including Star Wars, Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, and Jaws. Audiences can experience the unforgettable scores that helped define generations of cinematic storytelling.

MARCH 14-15

Owensboro Home Expo

OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

The Owensboro Home Expo features more than 44,000 square feet of exhibits focused on building, remodeling, and home improvement. Presented by the Green River Building Industry Association, the event highlights new technologies, design ideas, and industry professionals.

MARCH 21

In Concert: Wizard of Oz…Reimagined

RIVERPARK CENTER

This Owensboro Dance Theatre production reimagines The Wizard of Oz through original choreography and visual storytelling. Featuring professional guest artists, graduating seniors, and more than 150 community dancers, the performance blends multiple dance styles into a fresh interpretation.

MARCH 26

Henry Cho: The Empty Nest Tour

RIVERPARK CENTER

Comedian Henry Cho brings his stand-up tour to Owensboro following his recent induction into the Grand Ole Opry. His performance

reflects decades of television appearances and storytelling rooted in observational humor and clean comedy.

MARCH 27

2026 Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5k Expo

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

The Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K Expo supports services for individuals with disabilities while promoting community wellness. The event includes races, participant activities, and an expo highlighting sponsors, vendors, and local organizations.

APRIL 12

Jorma Kaukonen & John Hurlbut

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

inductee Jorma Kaukonen performs alongside John Hurlbut, blending folk, blues, and acoustic traditions. Known for his influential guitar work, Kaukonen continues to shape American roots music through intimate live performances.

APRIL 18

Americana

RIVERPARK CENTER

The Owensboro Symphony concludes its 60th anniversary season with Americana, featuring works by iconic American composers. The concert highlights music from film and stage, with guest vocalist Andrea Lykke joining the orchestra for the performance.

The

THE COUNTY LINES

FIRST QUARTER 2026

Roberts: Hancock County continues growth with strong vision, partnerships

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

Hancock County JudgeExecutive Johnny Roberts says 2025 was a year of steady growth, thanks to reinvestment from the county’s manufacturing giants and a continued focus on workforce development and quality of life.

Roberts praised Commonwealth, Southwire, and Domtar — known locally as the “big three” — for reinvesting approximately $8 million back into their Hancock County operations in recent years.

“That’s critical for us,” Roberts

said. “The majority of our revenue comes from occupational tax.

Each one of those companies has plants in other countries, so for them to continue investing here, it speaks volumes about our workforce and our local partnerships.”

He credited Mike Baker, director of the Hancock County Industrial Foundation, for building and maintaining those relationships. Roberts also said the county is looking for land to expand its industrial park due to a lack of space.

“Our mid-size companies in

Dame: McLean

By JOHN KIRKPATRICK

McLean County JudgeExecutive Curtis Dame described 2025 as one of the most challenging but ultimately resilient years in the county’s recent history, pointing to major flood recovery efforts, infrastructure investments, and preparations for future emergencies as key achievements.

that park are servicing the larger manufacturers, and that whole ecosystem is really thriving,” he said.

Roberts noted that the Industrial Foundation’s collaboration with Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC) has also been vital. OCTC’s campus in Lewisport provides on-site training in skilled trades such as welding and robotics, which Roberts said is important to new businesses considering where to locate.

“When new businesses come here, one of the first things they

look at is the available workforce,” Roberts said. “That partnership is a huge asset.”

Fiscal strength and future planning

Roberts said the county remains on solid financial ground.

“We’re operating with a balanced budget, and that gives us the flexibility to continue improving infrastructure, quality of life, and public services,” he said.

That includes plans for housing development, which Roberts clarified will be private sector-led.

On the public safety front, Roberts noted that all fire departments in the county are currently volunteer-run and operated by their respective cities. Law enforcement will also see change soon, as longtime Sheriff Dale Bozarth is set to retire, along with the county’s jailer.

“We’ll certainly miss their leadership, but it also gives us a chance to support the next generation of public servants,” Roberts said.

Hancock County has two incorporated cities — Hawesville and Lewisport — and Roberts said the county government maintains strong relationships with both.

He also attributed the county’s success to his colleagues

at Fiscal Court.

“Each magistrate brings a unique skill set that strengthens our efficiency and effectiveness,” he said. “Their dedication to their constituents is evident, and they serve our community with care and integrity.”

Quality-of-life investments

Roberts said one area where the county has made major strides is in quality of life, including recent investments at Vastwood Park. In 2025, the county completed a splash pad and new restroom facilities, and resurfaced and lit the 1-mile walking trail around the lake. A $500,000 playground upgrade is also in the works, with new equipment and inclusive features including sensory boards expected by mid-2026.

“It’s definitely a gem for our community and continues to be a big part of what makes Hancock County special,” Roberts said.

Looking ahead

Roberts said he knows things can change quickly in the economic landscape, but right now he’s optimistic.

“Our community is strong. We’ve got good people, good industry partners, and a vision for what’s next,” he said. “We’re just trying to leave it better than we found it.”

County ‘stable and strong’ after challenging year

“We’ve weathered our fair share of challenges,” Dame said. “But in the hour of need, everybody comes together to see the greater good … that’s why we’re strong.”

A year defined by disasters

Dame likened 2025 in McLean County to Kentucky’s unpredictable weather, noting how quickly the county went from one emergency to another.

The year began with narrowly avoiding an EF-2 tornado, followed by devastating floods in February, April, and May, and ended with extreme drought and winter weather.

The county sustained damage to public facilities, including the historic courthouse and the Chamber of Commerce building. In response, McLean County has focused on both immediate and long-term recovery.

A key step was the creation of the McLean County Hope Foundation, a nonprofit formed to help with disaster recovery and better prepare the county for future emergencies. Dame credited FEMA and local leaders including Chamber Director Sharon Walker for helping coordinate logistics during crises, including shelter, heaters, and emergencies.

$2.4M secured for floodplain buyouts

One of the most significant accomplishments of the year, Dame said, was securing more than $2.4 million in grant funds to fund voluntary buyouts of 21 high-risk flood properties.

The funding package included support from the NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection Program and the Department for Local Government.

“The key thing is, nothing will ever be built on those sites again,” Dame said. “The whole goal is to remove the risk rather than trying to build dams or levees.”

He said more than 10 families remain displaced and in temporary housing, but the county is now cleared to move forward with buyouts at no cost to local taxpayers.

Infrastructure upgrades, water projects, and economic development

Despite setbacks, Dame said the county made progress in several areas.

Over $2 million in funding has been secured from federal and congressional sources to construct a new water tower for the unincorporated Beech Grove community, improving water pressure and reliability.

Dame also said the county continues working to install backup generators at all rural fire departments and to upgrade emergency communication systems.

He highlighted the importance of planning for

earthquakes, noting McLean County’s vulnerability due to its location near the New Madrid fault line.

New recreation projects underway

Two major park projects are also advancing.

A new splash pad, estimated at approximately $400,000, is in active development at Myer Creek Park. The facility will be placed near existing restrooms to save on costs. Dame said the county has the funding secured and will not borrow money for the project.

Early design work is also underway for a regional multisport indoor complex that could double as a storm shelter. The facility would serve as a practice space for local athletes and be centrally located on high ground. Dame said it could also function as a logistics hub during emergencies.

Preserving history, planning for 250th celebration

Looking ahead, McLean County is forming a commission to plan local events for America’s

by Lauren Howe

250th birthday in 2026. The county will keep celebrations modest but will highlight its Civil War history and unique geography, split by the Green River.

Dame noted that the Green, Rough, and Pond rivers have shaped the county’s development for centuries,

from 1800s river commerce to modern emergency planning.

“We were definitely known for the Green River,” he said. “It kind of impedes, but at the same time, it connects.”

Final thoughts

Dame is proud of the community’s perseverance and

the strength of county employees and emergency responders.

“There are days I want to pull my hair out, but I feel like we’re on the right path,” he said. “What we lack in development, we make up for in heart and perseverance and compassion. And I think the flood showed us that we still have that.”

Wondering who could make big impacts in the community this year? Here are the honorees for the 20 in 2026 recognition initiative by OwensboroLiving and Owensboro Times, spotlighting some of the region’s most dynamic leaders, innovators, and changemakers. From business and education to nonprofit, civic, and creative work, these individuals are helping shape what comes next for our community.

Check out their bios here: