A bit about Owensboro

Owensboro has been a real gem. I wish I could stay here longer. But alas, tomorrow beckons and we will soon cross the Ohio river into Indiana.

The riverfront area is new and full of activity. But there is much history here too. There is evidence of American Indian settlement in the area dating back 12,000 years. Following a series of failed uprisings with British support, however, the last Shawnee were forced to vacate the area before the end of the eighteenth century.

The first European descendant to settle in Owensboro was frontiersman William Smeathers or Smothers in 1797, for whom the riverfront park is named. The city was previously named Owensborough after Captain Abraham Owens but was shortened to Ownesboro in 1893. I just love how we continue to simplify our language!

More recent history...did you know Johnny Depp was born here?

After getting out my ride summary today, we walked out along the Ohio river and settled on an Italian restaurant for some great pizza. But first we had to take a moment to enjoy the views along the river.

Then Kenny reminded me that today's ride was not totally uneventful. We had in fact seen a coyote crossing the road when we left Russellville. Here's a few shots ...not great but at least proof we are not making this up:

I must admit, it was pretty spectacular. 

Kenny also reminded me that we were chased by 4 or 5 dogs today. However, only one of them seemed slightly more than half interested in running us down, so it's not surprising I forgot to add this to my earlier blog...

After a good meal, we walked down to see the festivities. Live music, different booths set up...very much like Pleanton's concert in the park, just much bigger. 

We even met Preston, a West Highland White Terrier,with his own blog (A blog from a Dog's point of view). 

Preston's blog

Finally, as we were walking back to the hotel, we met local resisdents Karen Ann and Steve Campbell. We learned much about the recent history here and had a good time chatting.

We talked about Heart Across America and in the process learned that Karen had a triple bipass surgery and that during the surgery they found evidence of a previous heart attack. Her experience highlights the necessity of regular check ups and screening. Here's a shot of them with Kenny.

and the beautiful sunset...