With the Owensboro Dust Bowl just two weeks away, Beverly’s Hearty Slice (BHS) gave away basketballs and its usual Little Caesars pizza and water bottles on Friday. The nonprofit will also give away 500 backpacks at its Back to School Bash on July 19, which will run in conjunction with the tournament’s first day.
Travis Owsley launched BHS in September 2020, dishing out pizza and other goodies in underserved areas. The name and mission pay homage to Owsley’s late mother, who always invited folks into her kitchen.
This marks the third year for the Back to School Bash, which features more giveaways than just backpacks.
“We’re going to be giving away 500 backpacks with school supplies, three 32-inch TVs, Walmart gift cards, and more,” Owsley said. “We will also have three inflatables and Owensboro Health present to help promote Pink in the Park, our cancer awareness theme.”
Growing up in the community, Owsley said the Dust Bowl was everything. He now serves on the board and is ecstatic to offer collaborations with BHS and continue building on the already-established tradition.
“There are so many greats about this tournament, but more than anything, it’s about community, collaboration, and showcasing local talent,” he said. “It means the world to be a part of this. I feel like Kendall Perkins Park saved my life, and the Dust Bowl is something I look forward to every year, whether I play or volunteer.”
Owsley added that the tournament gives the community something to look forward to, especially during tough times. Like the tournament, his ultimate goal is for BHS to be a beacon of hope for the community.
“With people losing their jobs and everything else going on, it’s just great to bring the community together,” he said. “There’s no gangs and no gang violence. There’s nothing negative going on. Just good basketball and that’s what it’s all about.”
In other BHS news, the nonprofit will host its annual Kickball tournament at Chautauqua Park on Saturday, August 24. The double-elimination tournament will accept team entries through July 24.
For more information, visit BHS on Facebook here.
Click here to enter a Dust Bowl team or learn more about the 50-year-old tradition.
