Owensboro Parent July / August 2017 by Owensboro Parent Magazine

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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. July // August 2017

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

july // aug 2017

from the editor When the first day of summer break finally arrived in May, the 11 weeks ahead seemed like days of endless possibilities. Avery worked so hard this school year, finishing Kindergarten reading and writing at an advanced level. I had this dream of rewarding her by doing something fun every day (assuming her continued good behavior earned it, of course). We sat down and talked about what we wanted to do this summer and with the help of the Owensboro Parent Summer Activity Guide in last month’s issue, we made a list. A bucket list. “Avery & Reed’s Greatest Summer Ever Bucket List,” to be exact. Our list included things like: · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Pick strawberries Camp out in the back yard Learn to swim Dance in the rain Have a silly string fight See Big Red ROMP Catch fireflies Pick blueberries Movies on the River at RiverPark Make a slip n’ slide Mail cards to Mammie & Pawpaw and Grams & Gramps Visit Aunt Brittany & Aunt Ashley Go to the splash park Go to Holiday world

Publisher/Creative Director Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com Editor Ashley Sorce ashley@owensboroparent.com Advertising Sales Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com Layout Design Andrea Roberson Ad Design Jamie Alexander Andrea Roberson Taylor West Cover Photo Jamie Alexander Contributors Katie Albers Christina Dalton Danny May Laura Spencer Murphy Dr. Shanna McGinnis Beth Noffsinger

And as I sit here and work on this July/August issue of Owensboro Parent, I realize summer is half over and we have only checked off one of these items. (The strawberries from Reid’s Orchard were delicious!) How has summer gone by so fast already? And it’s not like we have had a boring summer so far. It’s been busy and full of memories – like turning on the sprinklers and running through them for an hour and dance parties with both kids in my arms and movie nights on the floor with every blanket and pillow in the house and popcorn and M&Ms, of course. While I am going to try to check off everything on our bucket list, I am learning more and more to live in the moment and make it all count. Sure, let’s stop at the park even though I need to be mowing the grass! Yes, I’ll go the long way and try to “get your bellies” on Fairview Drive! Of course we can listen to “Shake it Off ” one more time! If I have learned anything this year, it’s that life is not about planning. Life will never meet my expectations or go according to any plan I so meticulously lay out. And my goodness, if it isn’t better that way?! So as summer will soon turn into back to school time, I encourage you all to make some family memories. Steal some of our bucket list ideas. Or better yet, check out the End-of-Summer Adventure Guide on page 41. You will definitely find some fun, memory making ideas for your family there – camping, day trips, overnight adventures and more!

Lora Wimsatt Contact Information Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5416 www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/owensboroparent Advertise Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise with us. If you want to contribute to the success of our magazine, we would love to hear from you and will work to develop an advertising partnership that will not only benefit you, but also the parents of Owensboro.

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

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[41]

july // aug 2017 FAMILY LIFE

200 Miles [8] Parental Control 10] Grace + Intentionality = Transformation in Marriages [12] Insight From an Ordinary Dad [16] CO MMUNIT Y

Summer Photos from Facebook [18] A Spirit of Community [26] Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to the County Fair [28] Scout & About [33] Owensboro Parent Kids Triathlon [37]

SPECIAL SEC T I O N

[41] Make it count! End of Summer Adventures [50] Go Camping!

DISCOVE R

[56] Child Speech Development [58] Kids Eat Free List [60] July/Aug Calendar

[12] [18]

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[33]

[8] [26]

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family life

two hundred

Y miles

PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

{ by: laura spencer murphy }

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When I was a little girl, I had an army of stuffed animals as companions. I would set the creatures up in a certain way around my bed letting them take turns of who slept right next to me. My favorite was a pink rabbit I got for my first Easter, named Honey Bunny but I called him "Honey Bum" because I couldn't pronounce "bunny." I slept with my sweet friend every night, often sucking my thumb holding on to the ribbon around his neck as I tried to fall asleep. These stuffed animals meant more to me than Barbies, clothes, the latest gadget or video games. I can remember crying when I lost one. Fortunately, I still have Honey Bum today. When my son, Jonah, turned two, I started noticing his attachment to stuffed animals in a very similar way to mine. We got him a monkey at Build-A-Bear that he named "Monkey" (creative, I know) and he also adapted to a feather pillow that he took everywhere with him. Monkey and his pillow have been on cruises, to Disney World, short car rides and doctor visits. On occasion, they've been to church, hotel stays and sleepovers at the Grandparents. Jonah loves things that hold sentimental value and often can't finish certain movies because he's heartbroken while engrossed in an emotional plot. His sensitive heart makes me proud; I treasure how he already loves so deeply. It's no surprise that Jonah's Monkey and pillow joined us on a recent trip to French Lick. He slept on his pillow and holding tight to Monkey the entire way there and immediately tossed them onto the top bunk when we arrived to our hotel room. The day we checked out became hectic. We raced the clock to make the 11am checkout time as our kids stood dripping wet waiting to return to the waterpark after my husband, Josh, loaded the car. In our haste, we made a precious mistake. We left his pillow. Jonah never noticed on the trip home. He and his sister, Lily, were bickering and fighting over silly things, showing their arcade treasures and switching back and forth between adversaries and friends as the miles ticked closer to home. About an hour after we arrived we finally started to unpack. Jonah came up to me with tear stained eyes and asked, "Where's my pillow?" I assured him it was in the car and I reluctantly traversed into the dark night to search the front seat, back seat and trunk. No pillow. I didn't want to tell him the news, but I really had no choice. Back inside, I admitted that I thought we may have left it behind. Josh looked mortified. We both knew how much Jonah treasured that beat up heap of feathered mess. Quickly I

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made a phone call. Once connected with the front desk I realized how crazy I sounded.

"No, there's no pillow case."

"Yes, just plain white."

"Probably like the rest of the hotel pillows."

I'm sure the receptionist wondered why it was so important. Of

course I understood. Because it was HIS pillow. She humored me as I chattered on about the extreme value to him. She claimed that she checked the room. No pillow, she told us. And no, it wasn't in lost and found. Grasping at straws, we offered to drive up and look ourselves. Instead, she insisted to jot down our name and number in the lost and found log. Yay, I felt so hopeful with that offer. Not.

Hanging up the phone broke my heart. Call it my sensitive side,

my pregnancy hormones, or good old-fashioned mommy emotions, but I entered Jonah's room and I held him as we both silently cried. I held him tighter than he's let me since he was a toddler. I gave him the hotel's verdict but he simply whispered, "Please pray."

Oh, I'd pray. And I'd call back like a crazy lady until I got a

better answer. First, I called back the same evening. I wanted to know how to get ahold of the housekeeper Margaret (a name left on a tip envelope that I am very thankful for) and was told to call back this morning. Called at 5:45am to beat the rush hour of their breakfast and re-emphasize how important this fluffy piece of fabric really was to my 8-year-old son. At this point I was given the manager's name and told to call after 9:00 when she got to work. I called at 9:01. I think by now they were expecting me because she's the one who answered the phone. Immediately, she offered to check the room herself and talk to the housekeeper. (Call it hotel staff efficiency or maybe even avoidance of phone call lost-and-found harassment, but this time I was sensing results).

At noon, my cell phone rang. The manager's voice pronounced

triumphantly, "We have your pillow." These were the happiest four words I'd heard all day and my smile must have given it away because Jonah was jumping up and down with excitement.

Josh didn't hesitate or insist that we ask to have it mailed;

instead he immediately offered to leave and take Jonah back to get it. Not down the street, not across town, but more than 100 miles away. His to-do list is super long and his time is precious, but in that moment nothing was more important to this dad than making sure Jonah was re-united with something he considered precious and valuable. So off they went â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on more than a 200-mile round trip to retrieve this tattered and worn little miracle. And let me tell you, I doubt Jonah will ever leave it behind again.

Laura is an 8th grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School. She is a mother to Jonah,8, Lily ,6, and baby Josiah one month old.

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family life

{ Q&A with christina dalton,

M S S W, C S W

parental

control Q: I have two kids, ages 9 and 13. I cannot get them to help with chores. I have tried offering them money. I have taken stuff away. It probably does not help that I am a clean freak. So that means I am exhausted from cleaning all the time. Is there something new you can suggest?

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}

A: I think this is a problem that every parent has to deal with at one time or another. I feel like many of my answers go back to knowing your child and figuring out what motivates them. When I was teaching parenting classes, I had a parent that took it to the extreme. She told her child that she only washes clothes that make it in the hamper. Of course, this child never did put her clothes in the hamper. So mom folded the dirty clothes and put them back in the drawer. The day the girl needed her cheerleading outfit, it was wrinkled and smelly. It was the mom's triumphant moment when she got to say, "I only wash the clothes that make it in the hamper!" And that mom reported to class later that clothes were making it in the hamper now. I think you should talk to your kids about how everyone has jobs in order to make your home run properly. And if one person doesn't do that job then everything gets turned upside down. You can also offer extra opportunities to make money by doing chores that they are not responsible for and if they do those, they can earn extra money. Another strategy is to tell them what YOU will do. I

wash the clothes that get in the hamper. I take kids to the movies that do their chores. You can try to think of something that you are responsible for and you don't do it. See what happens when you do not do something that they count on. Show them what it looks like when not everyone pitches in. I hope something in here will help make your life better. Q: I have a 12-year-old daughter and she has been wanting to watch the Netflix series, "13 Reasons Why." What is your opinion and do you think it is harmful for her to watch? I have heard several different opinions. A: This is a difficult question to answer. There has been a lot of talk about this series at school. I have talked with other professionals and guidance counselors regarding the show. There is not one answer that is 100% the right answer. I know some people think that the show glorifies suicide and makes it appear glamorous. Other people I know think that every child of appropriate age should watch it because the content is so valuable and teaches such a good life lesson. Then you might wonder what is the appropriate age? I know many middle school age kids are watching this show. I really think it depends on the maturity level of your child. There have been some parents that did not know anything about this show and when they find out everything that it contains they freak out that their child has watched it. You should

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know ahead of time that the show has sex, drugs, and a very graphic suicide seen in the movie. My own advice is you know your child and you know if this is something that could scar them or could be beneficial. My biggest piece of advice is if you let your child watch this series watch it with them. Be there to explain some of the more difficult parts and be there to answer questions. Be there to explain why this is so important not to bully other people. I think if you watch it with them then this series could be beneficial to teens. I would not let my child watch it alone unless they were much older and in high school. For me the middle school age (12-14) is not able to process a show like this without some guidance. However, you are the best judge and doing your research is very important. Great Question! Q: My 3-year-old is always biting and

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hitting. He gets spankings, time outs and I even take away whatever he is playing with and put it up. Nothing seems to faze him. What else can I do? He just seems so little but it is becoming an issue. A: As far as the actions that your child is showing, those seem to be in line with his age but it is great that you want to get it under control now. I hope that on the biting, it will be something that he will grow out of, but I am sure as a 3-year-old that his bite hurts. I remember when my daughter would hit, I used to smack her hand and say, "We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hit." And she would always look at me so strangely. One day, I was just thinking that is the dumbest thing-- I am saying, "We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hit" as I hit her hand. Absolute madness on my part. I never did that again. Talk about confusing a child. It reminds me of when people bite their child back

to make them stop biting. Noooo! You remove your child from wherever they are when the hitting occurs. If they hit you, put them in timeout, somewhere that is safe and they will not get hurt. What you want your child to remember is it is not fun to throw a fit and hit when no one is watching. There are times when you see people deal with a situation like this and they embarrass the child. My suggestion is you get up and remove the child and you remove the attention that they are getting. Then the child starts to think, when I hit my mom, I go to time out. I am by myself and I do not like it. Children always want to be with their parents (that is up until a certain age!) Best of luck to you. OP

Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is a Family Resource Center Coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.

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family life

Ĺ¸

Grace + Intentionality=

Transformation in Marriages

Ĺ¸

{ by: katie albers }

Summertime, and wedding season is in full swing. Couples everywhere are standing before their families, friends, and God and committing to love, honor, and cherish one another until death do they part. It is a beautiful covenant, sealed with a kiss. Roll credits! Everyone lives happily ever after! Right?

PHOTOS BY JAA STUDIOS

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Absolutely! Marriage does not have to be hard, but it does require maintenance through two essential tools: Grace from and for each spouse and Intentionality to stay connected. Launching new coaching groups in January 2018, Grace Marriage will give married couples in Owensboro and across the region the opportunity to receive the support they need to consistently use these tools! Grace Marriage was founded by Brad and Marilyn Rhoads as a proactive approach to fostering healthy, vibrant, fun marriages. By partnering with churches through small groups, couples receive marriage coaching that allows them to have the space and time to appreciate each other, discuss concerns, and get on the same page about the direction of their families. Grace Marriage is all about taking a good marriage and making it the fairy tale. So How Does Grace Marriage Work?

Local churches implement Grace Marriage as a ministry for the couples of their congregations. Small groups of couples meet once every three months for six hours of dedicated marriage upkeep. At some church locations childcare and meals are provided to ensure that this time is protected from distractions. One of the group members, a trained facilitator, keeps the day moving through a progression of topics. Every meeting includes a time for gratitude. Couples have 10 minutes or so to think and write about why they appreciate their spouses, then they have a few minutes to share with their spouses, and then a few minutes to share with the whole group if they desire. Rather than lectures and to-do lists, this formula of reflection, oneon-one connection, and group sharing continues throughout the day. Couples are given time to plan date nights for the upcoming quarter and share ideas about how to make sure that time together is held a top priority. And, couples are taught how to use the example of Christ to give each other and themselves grace to make mistakes, to have a bad week, and to change and grow as their marriage friendship deepens. Brad Rhoads explains, “If we put our focus on forgiveness and loving despite offense instead of taking offense, our marriages can grow from the secure foundation of Christ. Our sin is not held against us so we can have a relationship with God. Then, we don’t hold sin against one another so we can have intimate relationships.” Grace Marriage is an ongoing program because marriages will always need maintenance. It is designed so that couples will develop the habit of taking regular time to reflect on their marriages year after year. There is an annual cost per www.OwensboroParent.com

Dating Doesn’t End with

“I Do.”

Relationships thrive with time and attention, and there is no more important relationship that the one with your spouse. Keep your marriage fun by dating your spouse. •

•

Commit to regular, weekly one-on-one time together. Double dates and family outings are fun too but should not take the place of time spent together enjoying each other alone. Make your date night a firm priority. Treat this time with your spouse as an important appointment that cannot be missed. Create a line item in your budget for date night. Go through your coupons, discount cards, and gift cards and plan for this time together before money excuses can creep up. Be creative and be fun! Consistency in having a date night does not have to make it routine or expensive. See our suggestions in “Date Night Without the Wallet Crunch.” Put the screens away. The only one who might be allowed to interrupt date night is your babysitter with an emergency. Otherwise, do not allow the beeping of phones or the glow of TV to distract you from each other. If at first it seems that your conversations always return to the kids, remember that as you spend more time together and get to know each other again, you will have more common interests to share. The problem of what to talk about will take care of itself. At least once a month, involve yourself in your spouse’s interests. Give your spouse the chance to shine through an unshared hobby and take delight in his or her enjoyment of the activity.

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Date Night Without the

Wallet Crunch

Weekly eating out and paying for a babysitter can take a chunk out of a family’s budget, but that shouldn’t be an excuse to go without one-on-one time with your spouse. Here are some suggestions for getting in that time with your most important person. •

•

• •

•

Get up early together and go for a walk. If your kids are little, let them sleep and simply walk hand in hand around the perimeter of your yard. Afterwards, continue your conversation with a cup of coffee on the porch. Make your date during lunch break! When the kids are at school or daycare or at home napping, enjoy a little one-onone time with your spouse in the middle of the day. Take off work a bit early to spend time together before the kids come home. Go through a drive-thru for a cold drink and then take a little drive together to relish these beautiful summer days. Send the kids on a picnic in the yard while you and your spouse enjoy the kitchen table alone. Offer to swap babysitting with a friend. They can go out one night while you keep their kids and they keep yours while you go out at a different time. Get your kids in the routine of going to bed earlier. It is good for them and for you and your spouse. If the kids are all in bed by 7:30 or 8, you can enjoy a late-night homecooked meal by candlelight, and maybe some romantic dancing cheek to cheek in the family room. At least once a month splurge on that sitter and go out together for a treat. If you plan and save for the event, the wallet won’t feel the squeeze.

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couple to cover materials, support, and training. How do we join a grace marriage coaching group?

Twenty-one churches are already signed up to join the January 2018 launch. Contact your church to see if they are already on board. If not, the Grace Marriage staff would be happy to speak with your church leadership. Not a part of a church? Check out gracemarriage.com for more information and to get plugged in. “The mission of Grace Marriage is protection, improvement and transformation of marriages. We believe if the grace of Christ and intentionality is applied to marriage, God can bring about miraculous change in the families in our culture.” It takes humility and focus to love, honor, and cherish someone until death do you part. But the joy and peace that come from a happy, healthy family are well worth the effort. Grace Marriage is here to help. OP

Katie Albers grew up in Owensboro and loved words so much that she became a school librarian and even alphabetized her family: Josh, Katie, Lance, Mallory, Noelle, and Ollie (the cat).

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family life

insight from an

ordinary dad

{ by: danny may }

What your kids CAN DO to stay safer online

Well, I did it. I had “the talk” I wrote about in a previous

column. Wait, not THE TALK. (You know, the baby one.) Not

Joe who is the Director of Family Life for the Diocese of Owensboro and has an office full of great resources.

quite yet. But this talk was just as serious and I think it will actually

make that talk much easier.

written on a 7-9-year-old-level to help explain how “bad pictures”

My wife found some inappropriate searches on the laptop history

that one of our boys made. Which I take partial responsibility for because we should have had better filters. So we grounded him from the computer until we could come up with an action plan. I totally believe it started out from the “suggested list” that pops up on YouTube – not something he sought out. But our mistake was

Joe gave me a book called “Good Pictures, Bad Pictures” that is

can be harmful to kids and even lead to addictions down the road. The premise of the book is that learning to recognize bad pictures and responding to them appropriately can train our brain to be proactive against their effects and keep us from becoming desensitized to them (which can lead down a slippery slope toward

letting him watch Minecraft videos on Youtube in the first place.

addiction).

So we fixed that glitch. But before we let him get back on the

The book describes five protective steps kids - or anybody for

computer, I wanted to better prepare him for when future online

that matter - can take when faced with images that make them

incidents occur. I needed a better game plan, so I called my friend

uncomfortable. It’s called the CAN DO method.

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C A

Close my eyes. Then close the computer. Or click out of

It’s crazy to think how the world we’re raising our kids in is

the pop up ad, video, or photo as soon as possible.

so different from the world we grew up in. Society in general has

Always tell a trusted adult. Open honesty is the goal.

changed so much. But the deeper I get into this parenting thing the

Definitely not secrecy. N

Name it when I see it. Calling it what it is helps our mind recognize it as something harmful. In our case, we decided to use the code word “bad picture,” especially in public situations.

D O

more I come face-to-face with this realization: it’s much easier to turn a blind eye (or ear) as a parent and just shrug our shoulders and move on than it is to face an issue head-on and deal with it. Being a parent is easy. But being a good parent is much harder. By “good” I mean engaged, aware, and involved.

And the thing is that no matter how we were raised we still have

Distract myself. Think of something else and don’t dwell

to decide how to engage our kids the best we know how in our own

on what you just saw.

context. Yes, our parents modeled certain situations with us when

Order my thinking brain to be the boss. The book explains

were were growing up, but we’re facing things that weren’t around

it in terms of our “thinking brain” (conscience, making

20-25 years ago.

healthy decisions) and “feeling brain” (pleasure center,

Sometimes I feel like I’m teaching myself as much as I’m

decisions without considering consequences).

teaching my kids. Sometimes I wonder who is raising who. But at the end of the day, I want my boys to know that we are checking in

Reading the book together made the talk less awkward. Especially since we already read together most nights anyway. I found the reading-a-story-together approach very helpful. I was able to stop reading and talk further on some points or add some of my own insight. It also gave him a chance to ask questions or make comments too.

My wife had the idea to make a small flash card with the CAN

DO steps and taped it to the laptop so it’s in plain view at all times for anybody who uses it.

Since we’ve read the book, examples from the story have come

back up several times in casual conversation. Some of the lessons from the book apply to other situations where it’s wise to act from your “thinking brain” instead of your “feeling brain.” Things like do I need to eat that second bowl of ice cream? Or, do I just want it? Should I stop to look for cars before chasing a ball across the street? Or run faster because my brain is telling me that I might be able to catch it and impress my friends? Anyway, it’s been good for our whole family because it forced conversations that needed to happen but it also gave us comfortable language to use.

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on them and are doing our best to keep them safe. The struggle is to find the balance between things like checking their search history and allowing them other ways to gain a sense of independence. But in the online world, we can never be too careful as parents because the social media/app/technology realm is advancing much faster with our preteens than we parents can keep up with. We hand our kids the world at their fingertips and I fear far too many of us are not even aware of the dangers that are approaching younger and younger eyeballs.

Maybe I’m dwelling too much on this, but this whole CAN DO

approach helps level the playing field in my mind. There are things my boys CAN DO to keep themselves safe. And there are definitely things their mom and I CAN DO to model for them how it looks in the real world as a grown up. And that conversation – both spoken and unspoken by actions – helps us all.

They’re watching. They’re listening. And they are learning.

And so am I.

Every day.

Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner Publishing Co. and a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very active boys, 7 and 9. Follow his blog at insightfromanordinarydad.com.

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SUMMER FUN photos from facebook

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SUMMER FUN photos from facebook

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SUMMER FUN photos from facebook

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community

, County Fair: a spirit of

community { by: lora wimsatt }

ome have suggested that they’ve gone out of

cattle, leaning over occasionally to spit a stream of brown

style, that the concept of a county fair is a quaint,

tobacco juice into the dust at their work-booted feet.

antiquated relic of the past.

The sounds of tinkling music and wholehearted laughter

Gone are the days when people came from miles

and the bleating of sheep mixed with the aromas of fried

around, tying their horses in the shade of the big trees

chicken and lemonade that wafted from the picnic area,

that lined the fairgrounds, or parking their new-fangled

all under sunny skies that gradually, but all too quickly,

automobiles on the rutted grass of nearby fields.

faded to sunset and then dark, thus bringing to an end

When women put on their best bonnets, carefully

a day that had been long anticipated for its interjection

carrying baskets of their prized jellies and preserves,

of fun and fellowship into an otherwise dreary everyday

modestly disguising their pride when the judge awards

existence of drudgery.

the blue ribbon to their offering.

“Old-fashioned,” some say now.

When pink-cheeked girls blushed and giggled as they

Obsolete. A vestige of bygone days.

peeked at the barefoot, bashful boys who stood in line at

There are so many other entertainment options now –

the kissing booth, and men in overalls leaned against the

too many.

wooden rails on the fence that corralled the mules and

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Kids for whom every moment of life has been a swirl of

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lights, noise and action are not going to be enchanted by

They forgot the ask the good ol’ boys who have been

a clown who twists balloons into animal shapes.

working hard all week as they take their places in the

Nobody is canning green beans anymore.

stands to watch the tractor pull, adding their hoots and

A contest for biggest pumpkin? Please.

hollers to the roar of the big engines as they lurch toward

Who cares about a dusty county fair in the heat of

the finish lines.

summer when there are theme parks luring in tourists

They forgot to ask the children whose 4-H entries

with promises of virtual reality experiences, and movies

are displayed in the shady pavilion, proud proof that yet

and video games at your fingertips?

another generation will know how to sew, how to paint,

Nobody cares about the county fair anymore.

how to grow vegetables, how to raise a calf.

They say.

But “they” forgot to ask the family as they park their

it all possible, as they nod, smile and wave at friends and

van in the field and hurry toward the admission gate,

neighbors during the one week that culminates a year’s

children squealing with delight as they tug on their

worth of work in booking bands, scheduling pageants,

parents’ hands to urge them along.

dragging the dirt track, lining up sponsors and vendors

and judges.

They forgot to ask the young man who knocks down

They forgot to ask the legions of volunteers to make

the wooden milk bottles with his allotted three baseballs,

nonchalantly tossing the teddy bear prize to the pretty girl

But the spirit of community will never go out of style.

at his side, pretending not to be jealous as she snuggles the bear and kisses its nose.

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Maybe the concept of a county fair is “old fashioned.” OP

Lora Wimsatt is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.

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community

After being rained out three out of four nights last year, Daviess

a parent's guide to the

daviess county lions club fair { by: danny may }

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County Lion’s Club Fair organizers are really hoping for a strong turnout this year. Owensboro Parent is doing our best to get the word out and encourage families to enjoy our county fair. Here are eight great reasons to spend an evening (or several) at the county fair this year. IT’S EASY TO FIND The Daviess County Fairgrounds are conveniently located at 6191 Highway 54 in Philpot, approximately six miles outside Owensboro city limits. If you are driving from Owensboro it will be on your left. C A R N I VA L R I D E S I N C L U D E D W I T H A D M I S S I O N Rather than having to buy additional tickets or armbands for carnival rides, the $10 admission includes all events and carnival rides for children. Once your child’s hand is stamped, they can ride as many rides as they want. The fair board decided several years ago to structure the pricing that way to make the fair more affordable for parents. Debra Green, owner of Casey’s Rides, says “It’s a great deal. I think that was a good decision and people seem to like it. We love to play the county fair because it’s a local event for us and we like to do

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things like this in our own community.” Green says we can expect

on Wednesday night, where local

plenty of their most popular thrill rides such as the Ferris Wheel,

firemen compete in obstacle courses

Tilt-a-Whirl, Space Sled, and many more.

and timed events like carrying a

Casey’s also provides Midway games and concessions, which are not included with the hand stamp. GAMES AND ACTIVITIES In addition to carnival rides, Casey’s Rides is also providing midway

fire hose and climbing a ladder. “It’s just a friendly competition for bragging rights,” explains fair organizer Joan Hayden. “They have fun with it. Family and friends from

ADMISSION

July 19/20 Ages 2+ = $10 (2 and under FREE)

July 21/22 Ages 6 + = $14

games like balloon darts, cork gun shooters, and water gun race cars

each of the community fire stations

this year at the Daviess County Fair. All games are cash only but

come to cheer on their firefighters,

there is a winner every time.

so it’s also a lot of fun to watch.”

Other fun activities at the fair include laser tag, petting zoo, and

FOOD

pony rides, which are also included with fair admission.

After you’ve worked up an appetite having fun and walking

Ages 2-5 = $10 (2 and under FREE)

through exhibits, head on over to the food court where vendors ACCESSIBILITY Thanks to a grant from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture Show and Fair Promotion, the fairgrounds were paved with blacktop surfacing around both arenas, which makes the Daviess County Lion’s Club Fair much more accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. For those who need assistance, the fair board provides golf carts to help shuttle people from the parking area to the arenas.

serve everything from fair favorites like fried Oreos, slushies, and corn on the cob to burgers and drinks. Some of the more popular booths include the Daviess County Cattlemen booth, which serves ribeye steak sandwiches; the fair board booth, which serves lemon shake-ups; the Lion’s Club booth, which serves porkburgers and hamburgers; and of course Casey’s Rides will have their midway food booths, which serve classics like cotton candy, corn dogs, and

EXHIBITS

funnel cakes. As a side note, Casey’s food stands now accept cash

If your kids love farm animals, the Tom Curtsinger Ag Building is

and debit cards.

where the livestock will be on display, giving little ones an up-close view of chickens, ducks, rabbits, goats, sheep, pigs, cows, and more. If you’d like to see the livestock judging, the cattle show is Wednesday night, the hog show is Thursday night, and the rabbit, poultry, lamb and goat show is Friday night. To spark some more curiosity, 4H and FFA projects and exhibits will be in the East Exhibit Building

MUD EVENTS & TRACTOR PULLS How could these events not be fun for the whole family? The ATV Mud Bogg (just for all-terrain vehicles) and the 4 Wheel Drive Truck Mud (just for trucks) is a community event. Anyone with an ATV or 4WD truck can register the night of the event for the time and distance competition – how fast can the vehicle get through the mud before it gets bogged down! The tractor pull will feature both professional pullers and a community open event, where a large

THE FIREFIGHTERS CHALLENGE

weight is pulled behind the tractor, a competition measured in both

Another event kids may find interesting is the Firefighters Challenge

the fastest time and furthest distance.

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

2017 FAIR SCHEDULE S AT U R D AY, J U LY 1

T U E S D AY, J U LY 1 8

Charity English Horse Show 3pm @ Fair Grounds

Enter 4-H, FFA, Garden, Crops, Hay &

S AT U R D AY, J U LY 8 Open Fun Horse Show 4pm @ Fair Grounds

T H U R S D AY, J U LY 1 3 Miss Pre-Teen Pageant 7pm @ Hines Center

Honey 4-6pm East Exhibit Bldg

W E D N E S D AY, J U LY 1 9 4-H/FFA Feeder Calf Show 5pm @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg Open Beef & Youth Fat Steer Show

F R I D AY, J U LY 1 4

following calf show @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg

Miss Daviess County Pageant 7pm @ Hines Center

Open Dairy Cattle Show 7pm @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg

S AT U R D AY, J U LY 1 5 Miss Teen 7pm @ Hines Center

S U N D AY, J U LY 1 6 Baby Contest 1pm @ Hines Center

Fire Fighters Challenge 7pm @ Small Arena 4WD Truck Mud Sling

Toddlers Contest 3pm @ Hines Center Little Mister & Miss Pageant 5pm @ Hines Center

Commercial Vendors

. July // August 2017

All American Petting Zoo & Pony Rides (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds Carnival Rides (free with paid admission to fair- $5 with fair entrance pass) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

T H U R S D AY, J U LY 2 0 Ol Stone Woodworking - carving (Carvings to be auctioned during intermission) 6pm @ Fair Grounds Open Youth Market Swine Show 6pm @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg

7:30pm @ Miles Arena 4-H/FFA, Crop, Hay & Honey Exhibits

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Laser Tag (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

5pm till closing @ East Exhibit Bldg

5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

Dirt Drag Racing (time trials begin at 6:30pm) 8pm @ Miles Arena ATV/4-Wheel Mud Bogg 7:30pm @ Small Arena

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4-H/FFA, Crop, Hay & Honey Exhibits 5pm till closing @ East Exhibit Bldg

4-H Poultry Show 7pm @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg

Commercial Vendors 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

Open Youth Lamb & Goat Show 7pm @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg

Laser Tag (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds All American Petting Zoo & Pony Rides (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds Carnival Rides (free with paid admission to fair- $5 with fair entrance pass) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

F R I D AY, J U LY 2 1 Ol Stone Woodworking - carving (Carvings to be auctioned during intermission) 6pm @ Fair Grounds Open Talent Show 6:30pm @ Bittel Hall 4-H Rabbit Show 6:30pm @ Tom Curtsinger Bldg

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Battle of the Bluegrass Truck & Tractor Pull 7pm @ Miles Arena

Battle of the Bluegrass Truck & Tractor Pull 7pm @ Miles Arena 4-H/FFA, Crop, Hay & Honey Exhibits 5pm till closing @ East Exhibit Bldg Commercial Vendors 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

4-H/FFA, Crop, Hay & Honey Exhibits 5pm till closing @ East Exhibit Bldg Commercial Vendors 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds Laser Tag (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds All American Petting Zoo & Pony Rides (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

Laser Tag (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds All American Petting Zoo & Pony Rides (free with admission to fair) 5pm till closing Fair Grounds Carnival Rides

Carnival Rides (free with paid admission to fair- $5 with fair entrance pass) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

(free with paid admission to fair- $5 with fair

S AT U R D AY, J U LY 2 2

S U N D AY, J U LY 2 3

Kids' Pedal Tractor Pull 6pm @ Fair Grounds

2-4pm @ East Exhibit Bldg

entrance pass) 5pm till closing @ Fair Grounds

Pickup Crops and Exhibits

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community

P H O T O B Y TAY LO R W E S T

scout&about { by: beth noffsinger }

n older cousin who was an Eagle Scout inspired

Boy Scout Troop 120 at St. Pius X Catholic Church,

Nathan Carmon to join the Cub Scouts, the

which are part of the Lincoln Heritage Council’s

program for first through fifth graders that precedes

Audubon District.

becoming a Boy Scout.

“I recommend getting involved with scouting because

On Sept. 19, 2015, after years of Cub Scout and Boy

of the good leadership roles you receive,” Carmon said.

Scout meetings, activities and merit badges, Carmon

“You can receive leadership roles in sports and other

completed the project that would allow him to reach

extracurriculars, but in scouting, you learn how to cook,

the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. He built wooden

clean, be more independent for yourself. … I think it’s

dugout fences and painted the ceiling of the dugouts for

just a great program to get involved with.”

Kentucky Wesleyan College’s softball field.

The Audubon District covers Daviess, Hancock,

“I wanted to be an Eagle Scout to reach the final end

Henderson, Ohio and McLean counties.

step of Boy Scouts in general and to see if I could do it –

The district also offers two co-ed Boy Scouts of

make a challenge for me,” said Carmon, an Owensboro

America programs: Venturing, a youth-led program

Catholic High School graduate who will attend Brescia

for ages 14 to 21 using the ALPS model (Adventure,

University in the fall. “It looks good on a resume, and it

Leadership, Personal Growth, and Service, according

looks good on a college application.”

to Venturing.org, and Exploring for children in middle

Carmon was a member of Cub Scout Pack 120 and

school to age 20 that teaches important life and career

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

skills through career experiences and mentorship,

Boy Scout – if interested, they can join a Boy Scout troop

according to Exploring.org.

once they have turned 11 or are at least 10 and completed

Those programs allow youths to learn about the

the fifth grade.

mission of the Boy Scouts, said Randy Mayfield, senior

“We try to keep them entertained as much as

district executive for the Audubon District.

possible,” said Jared Haynes, den master for Cub Scout

“We think every child will benefit from it, male or

Pack 120. “… You watch them learn and find new things.

female,” he said.

… They make friends and learn. It’s all worth it.”

Most scout packs and troops meet in some capacity

Cub Scouts are led by a den master, and Boy Scouts

throughout the year, whether at weekly meetings during

are led by members of the troop with the guidance of the

the school year or camps during the summer. Cost is $25

scoutmaster.

per year to cover registration and insurance as well as

“It’s really an amazing journey to see these boys

additional expenses for things such as equipment and

go from 6-year-olds to teenagers,” said Rob Nash,

uniforms.

scoutmaster for Troop 120. “The development, the way

“It’s probably, especially in the cub scouting, there’s

they do things, they step up to be the leader in the troop.

no better activity out there to bring family members

It’s exciting for me to see. … It’s really up to the scouts

together to participate in activities and events,” Mayfield

to decide what direction the troop is going to go. You put

said. “ … Boy Scouts of America is the premier leadership

the responsibility on the scouts. … It’s exciting to see the

development program in our nation. They are required

maturity grow in these guys. It’s been fun to watch.”

to hold leadership positions for a certain amount of time,

Haynes recommends scouting because members are

complete community service hours for advancement –

constantly engaged in something new.

it’s all of the qualities that we often instill in our youth

“They might learn cooking one week in their den,”

today because they are going to be our future.”

he said. “They might learn fishing the next week. They

The Audubon District is piloting a Cub Scout

get a wide range of educational experiences. … It just

program for kindergartners. Cub Scouts are promoted to

kind of sparks them. You learn things about your kids

Boy Scouts after they reach the rank of Arrow of Light,

and your family that you probably wouldn’t have learned

have turned 11, or are at least 10 and completed the fifth

otherwise.”

grade, according to the Boy Scouts of America’s website. Boys don’t have to have been a Cub Scout to become a

Beth Noffsinger is a former Owensboro resident who now lives in Glasgow with her husband, Gavin, and daughter, Corinne. She enjoys reading, running, and writing.

If you are interested in learning more about the Boy Scouts of America and the programs available in the Audubon District of the Lincoln Heritage Council, call Randy Mayfield at 270-316-0727 or visit lhcbsa.org. To learn more about Cub Scout Troop 120, contact Jared Haynes at 270-314-3775.

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community

owensboro parent

kids triathlon O

wensboro Parent Magazine and the Owensboro Family YMCA are pairing up with the support of Independence Bank to bring the second annual Kids Triathlon to Owensboro! There is a strong need in the community for family healthy activities. What better way to be active than involving the entire family in triathlon training?! Swimming, biking and running are three activities that we all grew up participating in, and we want to bring back the fun! Whether this is your child’s first triathlon or 20th, they will have a great time competing or just enjoying the race experience. We will have music, food, shirts and medals for all participants. This race will NOT be chip timed, but we will be manually timing the participants and will post results shortly after each race.

Race day registration will open at 7am and close at 7:30am at the Family YMCA registration office (900 Kentucky Parkway Owensboro, KY 42301). There is a mandatory parent meeting before each respective race: • 11-14 years old: 7:30am • 7-10 years old: 8:30am • 4-6 years old: 9:30am This years swim portion will be a “snake swim,” crossing under each lane, with kids separated with 10-20 second intervals. Distances for the swim vary with age group: • Ages 4-6: Swim 25 yards • Ages 7-10: Swim 75 yards • Ages 11-14: Swim 125 yards

Registration: • Early Registration thru 11:59pm, June 30$20.00 • Late Registration July 1-July 12 until 11:59pm- $25.00 • Race Day Registration 7:00-7:30am- $30

Once completed with the swim, participants will head towards the bike transition area that will be set up in the front lawn of the YMCA. Participants will exit the pool emergency doors. Ryan Clark from the Cycling Department at Legends will be on site prior to the race to conduct safety checks on the bikes.

HERE IS WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT FOR THE DAY:

Participants will take their bike on their designated course, with route distances varying

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

with age group: • Ages 4-6: Bike .55 miles • Ages 7-10: Bike 1.76 miles • Ages 11-14: Bike 3.57 miles Once participants have completed the bike ride, they will rack their bike in the transition area and head out for the run. Distance varies with age group: • Ages 4-6: Run .55 miles • Ages 7-10: Run .96 miles • Ages 11-14: Run 1.76 miles Once finished with the run, participants will have completed their triathlon! After all that hard work, your kids will love the music, food vendors, and fun-filled afternoon! If there is a need to cancel due to inclement weather, we will reschedule for July 23. Same times and rates apply.

COMMON PARENT QUESTIONS: What if my child can’t swim without some type of floatation device? No big deal! Bring your life jacket, arm floaties, Puddle Jumper, whatever your child will feel most comfortable in! If you don’t have any of these, the YMCA will provide kick boards at the event. Volunteers will be in the pool. What special gear will my child need? Just a helmet and bicycle. A helmet is mandatory for the event. What if my child is still using training wheels? No problem! Parents can also run or ride along side their child. We encourage you to have fun as a family! Will my child change clothes after swimming? No, there is no need to change clothes. Children will get out of the pool and go right out to their bike, put on their shoes and take off for the ride portion of the event. What if my child is not strong in a particular portion (bike, swim, run)? This race is for everyone! We just want families to come out, make it to the finish line and we want to cheer you on along the way. It is all about having fun! What if I have children in different age ranges? We plan on running one group at a time. That way it will be easier for parents in that situation. OP

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Summer isn't over yet!

There are still plenty of weekends to make more family memories or go on one more epic road trip before school starts again. Here are some suggestions to soak up the rest of the summer at some of Owensboro Parent's favorite area attractions.

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July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

family adventure

Hometown Adventure Check out Daviess County Public Library’s free events for kids in late July. There is something for every child including an interactive Harry Potter movie night, a magical adventure with Belle from Beauty and the Beast, tie-dye, slime experiments and fairy tale story times in your pajamas. Complete your local adventure with the 2017 Best of Owensboro Living’s Best Pizza – Mellow Mushroom. They offer a full kids menu, including French bread pizza, all-natural mac & cheese, cheesy meatball stacks and pretzel dippers. Be sure to take a picture of your kids under the purple mushroom outside!

TA K E A K I D O U T D O O R S !

Located at the Daviess County Gun Club, Take a Kid Outdoors Day is August 26th and hosted by the Conservation District. This event is only $5 for pre-registration and $7 for registration the day of the event. It is open to ages 8 – 15 with activities available to children under 7. From 9am to noon, kids can learn about hunter and ATV safety, shoot live firearms, learn about animal tracks and much more. A parent or guardian must accompany their child. Lunch is included for all registered kids.

Santa Claus, In

There is nothing better than a fun day at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari! Families enjoy free, unlimited soft drinks, sunscreen and parking. Consumers Digest just named Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari the Nation’s Top Value Park, giving Holiday World the top “bang for your buck” ranking for its “charming retro holiday theme.” There is something for everyone – little kids and big kids alike! Even if you’ve been several times, there are new attractions every year, such as the new-for-2017 Firecracker family ride and Holidog’s Treehouse play structure. But why not make a weekend out of a Holiday World trip and try out Lake Rudolph Campground and R.V. Resort?! Families can camp, rent a cabin or holiday cottage, and enjoy a family getaway just 40 minutes from home. One unique feature to Camp Rudolph is that guests can enjoy the RV Experience without owning their own RV with a Rental RV! Lake Rudolph has plenty of family fun (see a detailed list of amenities at the campground in the Go Camping list on page ?) and has been named ‘Best Family Campground’ by TravelChannel.com Before heading back to Owensboro, browse Santa Claus Christmas store, satisfy your sweet tooth at Santa’s Candy Castle, and take a ride at Santa’s Stables, and write an early letter to Santa at the Post Office.

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Cave City, Ky

Cave City is home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world, Mammoth Cave. But Cave City is also home to a multitude of inspiring locations. Wigwam Village Inn Number Two, a wigwam motel, offers a unique place to stay while visiting the area. Dinosaur World, a park where your family can wander among hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs in a natural setting, would be perfect for an end of summer family adventure. You can even bring your dog! Another stop to make in Cave City is Funtown Mountain, a Carnival Amusement Park. Located at the former historic roadside attraction, Guntown Mountain, this 30-acre tract is an epic playground of wonder, imagination, and dreams.

road trip

BINGO FREE!

As you are driving, look for different road signs. Mark the signs you see. The first player to get 5 spaces in a row wins! www.OwensboroParent.com

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

family adventure

Gibson County, In

Just an hour or so north of Owensboro, Gibson County, Indiana offers families a lot of summer fun adventures. The Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge offers fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, paddling or hunting. The Princeton Train Depot is a perfect stop for you’re your little Thomas fan. Or for kids that are into all things cars, a tour of the Toyota Plant or visit to Tri-State Speedway would be a great family adventure! Check out the Gibson County Tourism ad for a complete Summer Bucket List!

Evansville, In

Just across the river, Evansville offers a lot of family adventures, like Mesker Park Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Check out their website for special events, including a Family Fun Day on August 5. There is also the Children’s Museum of Evansville, which is sure to provide an imagination and discovery filled day. Galleries include engineering, music, drama, building, creating, and so much more. The Quack Factory is especially memorable, encouraging explorers to follow a process and execute a plan for accomplishing a task while also offering physical challenges within a 28foot climbing structure. The Quack Factory also provides water activities in the Wet Deck. If your little ones need to burn off some energy, try the Inflatable Fun Factory indoor inflatable arena. (See ad on page 47) You can’t go wrong with ending a day of fun with pizza! Your family could try Gattitown for pizza and 9,000 square feet of video games, or Walther’s Golf & Fun for indoor and outdoor miniature golf and arcade, or famous Evansville pizzeria, Turoni’s.

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are we

there yet? Parents, how many times do we hear that one phrase during a road trip? (Sometimes just driving across town, right?!) Well, here is a DIY solution that could alleviate a lot of frustration for you and your kids. It will take a little bit of time and creativity on your part, but could save you from hearing that dreaded phrase on the road. Here’s the idea. Create baggies of goodies for your kids – snacks, dollar store toys, activity books, etc. Then label those baggies with mile markers of your trip – be as creative as you want. Here are some ideas:

Counted 10 red cars Find the entire alphabet on road signs Traveled 100 miles See a license plate with the letter Z When Mommy says so Your kid only earns the baggie of snacks or toys when the mile marker is reached. This gives your kids something to look forward to and keeps their minds off the dreaded “Are we there yet?” question.

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DIY Lap Board

for the car

French Lick, In

Make the most of your family time together at French Lick's indoor water park with retractable roof in Southern Indiana. You’ll create unforgettable memories zipping down the Jolly Roger Jetty water slide, plunging down Pirate's Plunder and into the famous "toilet bowl", splashing and playing basketball in the Lost Treasure Lagoon, or simply relaxing on the Lost River at Big Splash Adventure. With over 40,000 square feet; there are so many fun things to do in the water park. Don't forget about our other attractions, Shotz Lazer Tag and Wilstem Ranch.

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So, we know there are these amazing DIY lap boards on Pinterest, but they involve wood and foam and fabric and sewing. Whew! Who has time for that? This lap board is perfect for the busy mom. Pick up a baking tray (dollar store will work), but check to make sure it is magnetic first! Then glue magnetic strips onto markers and a sketch pad. This way your children have a flat surface to color on and you don’t have to pick up a marker they drop every 5 seconds!

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family adventure

Bowling Green, Ky Just a little over an hour down the Natcher, Bowling Green offers a ton of family fun adventures! Beech Bend Park has rides and attractions for all ages and all ranges of thrill seekers. From a mellow lazy river to a thunderous wooden coaster, you and your family will have plenty to smile about. Or check out the Friday Night Lights available every Friday through the first week in August, for a whole new park experience – in the dark with dazzling light displays.

A Corvette is available in the lobby for photo ops and so you can “try one on for size.” And to top it off, you can view the sinkhole that made national news in 2014!

The National Corvette Museum is home to America’s Sports Car, featuring over 70 Corvettes. Families can enjoy the KidZone with hands-on activities for children.

End the day with ice cream at Chaney’s Dairy Barn. Yummy food and outdoor fun for kids – think Big Dipper meets Trunnell’s.

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Lost River Cave is another great option, where you can ride on Kentucky’s only underground boat tour. Throughout the valley, enjoy a butterfly habitat, Treetop Bridge, nature trails, bird watching stations, picnic areas, and a favorite children's activity, and the gemstone sluice.

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family adventure

Louisville, Ky Under two hours up the road, families can find many adventures in Lousiville. Louisville Zoo currently exhibits more than 1,500 animals on 134 acres of natural settings representing zoogeographical areas, specific habitat types or special education areas including: Glacier Run, Africa, Islands, New World Exhibits (North, Central and South America), Australian Outback, the HerpAquarium and the Metazoo Education Center. For your baseball-loving kids you could visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, which celebrates the extraordinary role Louisville Slugger baseball bats have played in the sport's past, present, and future. From the forest to the field, you'll follow the timber that's turned into hard hitting history. You could even catch a Louisville Bats Game at Slugger Field. The Kentucky Science Center is another fun yet educational adventure, which encourages people of all ages to do science. Or visit Louisville Mega Cavern for underground zip lining and ropes courses.

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Beaver Dam, Ky

The Beaver Dam Amphitheater will host two world-renowned performers this summer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Martina McBride on July 28 (tickets are $35) and Casting Crowns on August 11 (tickets are $30). Kids 6 and under are FREE for both concerts. Make a day of it and check out the Beaver Dam City Park with a walking trail and playground or the Ohio County Fair grounds in Hartford, where you can camp, and enjoy a 3-mile walking trail and Fort Hartford. New to the area is My Sweet Sister, a frozen yogurt shop that will surely make any kid happy!

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family adventure

nashville, tn If you’re wanting to head south for a road trip, slip through the looking glass into a wonderland of fun at Gaylord Opryland Resort’s SummerFest in Nashville. Kids of all ages can explore the resort's nine acres of indoor gardens to experience the whimsical décor of giant mushrooms, caterpillars, teacups and more, all inspired by Lewis Carroll's Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland stories. Activities include the Queen of Arts Tour featuring local artists, "Follow the White Rabbit" Scavenger Hunt, Hatter's Floating Tea Party Cruise along the resort's ¼-mile-long indoor river, free nightly fountain shows and family-friendly movies. Outside, there is a poolside Aquafina® Splash Party with music, food, drinks and lawn games.

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family adventure

Go Camping!

If camping is in your plans for the end of summer, Owensboro families have several options in the area ranging from several minutes to several hours away. Diamond Lake Resort Owensboro, KY

KOA Bowling Green, KY

A 157-acre resort with 270 campsites and open year round, Diamond Lake Resort offers more than just camping, including golf cart and paddle boat rentals, go-karts, minigolf, fishing and disc golf.

With spring-fed lakes, fishing is popular at this KOA (no license required for guests). Weekend activities abound April through October and include holiday cookouts, live entertainment, pool parties and much more. Enjoy horseshoes, a playground and a nature trail. Free Wi-Fi is available on most sites. This campground offers clean laundry facilities, and it is close to shopping areas and a movie theater.

Windy Hollow Owensboro, KY The Children will love the fun filled facilities at Windy Hollow. Enjoy the challenge of a round of miniature golf. Try your hand at pinball or a game of pool. Or relax and enjoy a swim on the beach. Stop in for a snack at the concession stand and enjoy the scenic view. With modern campsites, a beautiful setting, and exciting recreational facilities, Windy Hollow offers family camping at its best.

Lincoln State Park Lincoln City, IN

John James Audubon State Park Henderson, KY The park is highlighted by the John James Audubon Museum and Nature Center. Enjoy camping, golf, fishing, hiking, tennis, picknicking, playgrounds, and boat rentals.

Rocky Falls RV Park & Campground Evansville, IN

Lincoln State Park, the boyhood home of Abraham Lincoln, offers 10 miles of hiking trails, two scenic lakes, and an interpretive center to help you experience early life of settlers in southern Indiana. Your entire family can enjoy a relaxing time at one of the campgrounds, cabins or group cottages.

A wide variety of campsites are available for camping, ranging from open lawns to wooded and shaded sites, some close to the main facilities, while others are more secluded, but all are within 1,000 feet of Rocky Falls!

Vastwood Park Hancock County, KY

Burdette Park Evansville, IN

Vastwood Park is located between Hawesville and Lewisport on Highway 60. There are 21 campsites with water and electricity. The 400-acre park includes a 19 acre lake and walking trail, playground, ball fields and more. 52 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

While Burdette offers both RV and primitive tent camping sites, they also offer shelter houses and beautiful chalets for rentals. Families can also enjoy a BMX racetrack, fishing lake and an aquatic center. www.OwensboroParent.com

Scales Lake Park Boonville, IN With nearly 100 campsites and 2- and 4-bedroom cottages available for rent, Scales Park is very accommodating. But perhaps the best part is the beach nestled in the woods of Boonville.

Lake Rudolph Campground and RV Resort Santa Claus, IN Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort sits on 160 acres and features 289 family rentals: including Rental RVs, gravel and concrete RV sites, tent sites with water and electric, and 153 Cabins and Cottages. There are 5 modern air-conditioned bathhouses throughout the campground; a fishing lake with paddleboat, kayak, and rowboat rentals; basketball and beach volleyball courts; a WaterPark and swimming pools; playgrounds; an 18-hole mini golf course and game room; camp store and laundry facilities; free WiFi, Ice Cream & Pizza, discounted Holiday World tickets for guests, and free shuttles to and from Holiday World.

Camp like a Champ

Do’s and Don’ts for your first family camping trip Don’t rough it. Car camping, in which you drive up to your campsite, is the way to go. Conduct a test run. Try sleeping in a tent in the backyard first. Take notes as you think of things you’ll need on a full-blown trip. Don’t overpack. Most people bring too many clothes. Leave the “just-in-case” items at home and know that you can re-wear things. But do pack for all kinds of weather. Even if it’s hot during the day, the evenings can be cool—so bring an extra layer or fleece pullover/pants for nighttime. Don’t forget rain gear! Unpack and set up camp while you still have light. Get the kids involved with a chore, like gathering kindling. Set up the tent first. Don’t be overambitious on Night 1. If you’re arriving at the end of the day, plan a super-simple meal. Don’t unpack your devices. Leave the tablets at home, dig out your digital camera (or forgo pics), and stash your smartphones in the car for emergencies.

www.OwensboroParent.com

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

{ paid advertorial }

rooming in

helps families stay close

honda and Casey Pruden waited nine months to hold their newborn daughter and didn’t want

said Couplet Care is part of the larger Rooming In plan.

to let her out of their sight. Thanks to Rooming In

“The purpose is to reduce interruptions, improve

at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, they didn’t

communication within the care team, and it helps

have to.

with care coordination,” Denton said. “The overall

goal is to keep the family together, and to decrease

Edith Claire Pruden was born by cesarean

section on June 5 at Owensboro Health Regional

separation as much as possible.”

Hospital, weighing in at 8 pounds. Once mother and

baby arrived in their room on the hospital’s Mother-

Couplet Care. She’s a registered nurse in the Special

Baby Unit, they were inseparable.

Care Nursery at Owensboro Health Regional

Hospital, and was one of the first nurses to cross-

“She hasn't left our presence since we got here.

Rhonda Pruden has a unique perspective on

We love it,” said new father Casey Pruden on June 6.

train on the Couplet Care model.

“We wouldn't want her to be anywhere else. We want

her right here.”

improving. I enjoy being part of the team and

Keeping mother and baby together is part of a

committee and seeing things change for the better.

new staffing model called Couplet Care, which went

Being a part of the process is exciting,” Pruden said.

into effect in Owensboro Health Regional Hospital’s

“I don't think there was any downside of having her

Maternity Services department on June 5. In Couplet

(her daughter) here with me.”

Care, both mother and baby have one nurse, mom

and baby are admitted to the same room, and all the

advantages from a clinical perspective, said Beth

baby’s care is done in that room. Previously, they

Whitsett, RN, manager of the Mother-Baby Unit.

would have separate nurses and babies would spend

“There's one nurse and the mother knows that nurse.

time away from mothers in the hospital’s nursery.

She can ask about the care for herself and the baby.

Ashley Denton, RN, manager of the Special

They're more familiar with their nurses, and nurses

Care Nursery and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit,

are getting to know the families better, so they pick

54 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

“I love being a part of change and seeing things

Rooming In and Couplet Care have definite

www.OwensboroParent.com

up on family needs quicker,” Whitsett

for mom to sleep, but research shows

said.

moms sleep better with the baby in the

room,” Denton said. “Babies are most

In October 2016, the American

benefits of rooming in

officially

comfortable with their moms. They cry

recommended rooming in preferably

less and mom is able to soothe them

until the baby turns 1, but at least

quickly. They gain more weight, feed

for the first 6 months, where babies

more and they're less likely to develop

sleep in the same room (but not the

jaundice.”

Mom learns more quickly how

same surface or bed) as their mother.

to read hunger cues and how to

This has benefits for both mother and

wasn’t expecting to deliver her baby

newborn. New mothers can learn their

on the first day of a new initiative she

baby’s behavior and hunger cues more

helped prepare, she was glad because it

quickly. When rooming in, the risk

helps give her valuable understanding

of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

of her patients’ perspective.

decreases by about half, Denton said.

“I have experienced what my

Denton said Rooming In is a big

patients will experience, what it's

change, which has taken unlearning of

like to be on the other side,” Rhonda

some old practices.

Pruden said. “I think that'll make

me a better nurse and a better team

Academy

Pediatrics

“It's a common misconception that

you have to send the baby to the nursery

www.OwensboroParent.com

Rhonda Pruden said while she

member.”

Mom sleeps better with her baby in the room

soothe her baby Milk production increases Babies gain more weight Babies are less likely to develop jaundice Overall, mom and baby are better prepared for their first nights at home.

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

peech specifically refers to verbal language

Sayx w Something!

expression while language is a broader concept that encompasses meaningful

expression

and

reception

information.

This includes verbal, nonverbal, and written communication. Your pediatrician is evaluating your child’s ability to both communicate with others and understand communication from others in various formats.

Even in early infancy, children begin to

communicate with others with smiles, eye contact, and cooing.

Smiling can occur spontaneously

in newborns during sleep or at random times. However, the “social smile” is a reciprocal smile in response to something pleasant, like someone else’s smile or a familiar face or voice. The social smile is often accompanied by eye contact and cooing. These are some of my favorite milestones to observe at the 2 month well visit. I like to think of it as the baby’s way of saying, “Hello, doctor!”

As time moves on, infants begin to jabber

sounds and look in the direction where sounds originate.

They start to have “conversations”

where they babble, allow someone else to talk, and then babble in response. They also begin to gesture by pointing or waving as a means of communication. These are important milestones that occur before the first word is uttered around 12 months. Delays in these milestones can raise concerns about speech and language development that could be the result of a general delay, hearing deficit, or delay in social development. { by: shanna mcginnis,

MD, FAAP

}

One of the most important developmental milestones that pediatricians evaluate in young children is speech and language development. Parents typically think of this in terms of words that the child says, but there is much more to it. 56 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

Speaking of hearing, assessment of hearing is

a crucial part of evaluating a child for speech and language delay. A specialist, called an audiologist, typically performs an age-appropriate hearing test to determine if hearing loss is contributing to the delay. In addition to a hearing evaluation, any child who has a possible delay in speech and/ or language development should be referred to a speech-language pathologist.

These experts

use standardized tests to evaluate speech and language skills, but also observe these skills as part of the child’s overall development. Some parents www.OwensboroParent.com

are a little reluctant to pursue an evaluation for speech or

rather promotes their ability to speak. There are lots of

language delay or want to take a “wait and see” approach. It

toddler sign language videos available online.

is important to intervene as early as possible so the child does

• Avoid comparing your children to other children or

not get further behind.

siblings.

Parents should understand that they have not done

others and can cause parents to perceive a delay that

anything wrong if their child has a speech and language

is not there. However, if you have concerns about your

delay. However, there are some things you can do as a parent

child’s development, discuss it with your pediatrician.

or caregiver to promote development in this area.

Some children develop more quickly than

• Avoid handheld screen time in infants and toddlers. New research presented at a recent academic pediatric

• Read to your child often, even during infancy.

meeting suggests that handheld screen time in children

• Avoid “baby talk.”

less than 2 years old increases the risk of speech delay.

• Use everyday situations to reinforce communication. For example, when giving your toddler a cup of milk,

It is important to be consistent with scheduling your

emphasize the words “cup” and “milk” while pointing

child’s well visits so their development can be assessed.

at them. This repetition is a key part of speech and

Early diagnosis and intervention is imperative. Finally, on

language development.

a personal note, 2 of my 3 children have been involved in

• Teach your child some sign language. Even in the absence

speech therapy and they absolutely loved it! Much of the

of a hearing deficit, signing can help a child communicate

therapy is done through play so they enjoyed participating.

with their hands who has difficulty communicating with

As always, talk to your doctor about any specific concerns

their mouth. This works best for children 9 months and

about your child.

older because their motor skills are too immature prior to this age. It does not hinder speech development, but

www.OwensboroParent.com

Dr. Shanna McGinnis is a pediatrician at the One Health Pediatrics. She is also the mother of 3 children.

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

the kids eat free list

Every Day

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée from 4 – 8pm for kids 12 years and younger

Monday

Denny’s – 2 free kids meals per adult meal purchase

Catfish Willy’s - $1.99 kids meal with the purchase of adult meal Grandy’s - 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of regular adult meal TGI Fridays – Free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée for kids 12 years and younger Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn - Kids 10 and under eat free on Monday night at Moonlite from 4-9 p.m. (limit 2 free kids buffets per adult buffet purchase) Chic-fil-A – The first and third Monday in March and April kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal Zaxby’s – Kids meals are 99¢ (up to 3 kids) with the purchase of adult meal from 5 – 8pm

58 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

Tuesday

O’Charley’s - Free kids meal for kids 10 and under with the purchase of adult entrée

Fazoli’s - 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of adult meal up to 3 meals with the purchase one entrée Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids 10 and under with adult purchase with a drink on Tuesdays from 5 – 8 pm Pizza Hut – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of adult buffet from 4:30 – 7pm at the South Frederica location Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only

Wednesday

McDonald’s – Happy meals are $1.99 from 4 – 7pm, dine in only Firehouse Subs – Kids under 12 eat free all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult

www.OwensboroParent.com

Thursday

Sunday

Bee Bop’s – free kids meal with the purchase of adult meal after 5 p.m. for kids 12 and younger

Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée for kids 10 and younger

Dairy Queen (Frederica Location) – $1.99 kids meals. Limit 2 kids per combo meal

Saturday Maloney’s – free kids meals from 11am – 2pm Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11am – 3pm

Maloney’s – free kids meals from 11am – 2pm Salsarita’s – free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11am – 3pm

Lure Seafood & Grille – free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée

Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids 10 and under with adult purchase with a drink on Sundays from 11:30am – 2pm

Wheatgrass Juice Bar – free kids smoothie with adult purchase

Firehouse Subs – Kids under 12 eat free all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult

Long John Silver’s Kids meals are $1.99 all day.

*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation.

www.OwensboroParent.com

Report Card Incentives

Orange Leaf – Bring in your report card and receive $1 off yogurt; a report card with straight A’s will receive a small cup free. Ritzy’s (Both locations) – Ritzy’s has a “Scoops for Scholars” program. Students can bring in their report card each grading period to earn treats for each “A.” 1A = flavored soft drink (cherry, vanilla, or chocolate) 2 As = single scoop of ice cream 3 As = your choice of a hotdog, coney, hamburger, or cheeseburger 4 As = double scoop of ice cream McDonald’s – All five Owensboro McDonald’s decided this school year that they will award a free Happy Meal to any student who gets straight As on their report card. Family Video (1212 JR Miller) – During the summer, you can take your end of the year report card to Family Video. Your child will receive a voucher for a free movie/ game rental for every A (or equivalent) they received in a core class for the year. Krispy Kreme – A free glazed donut for every A, up to 6. Chuck E. Cheese in Evansville – A child can receive 10 tokens with a purchase if they bring in their report card. Sky Zone in Evansville – All As (or equivalent) receives a free 1-hour jump ($16 value) and A/B (or equivalent) receives a free 30 minute jump ($12 value).

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

july // august 2017 Informing parents about fun, local events is a priority for Owensboro Parent. Our magazine compiles events from across the city and county. So when your family is looking for something to do, check out the Owensboro Parent calendar, where you will find information on local events, including event descriptions, locations, dates, times and price. Want to include your event? Contact the editor at ashley@owensboroparent.com.

ALL MONTH

OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET

TRUNNELL’S PATRIOTIC DAY AT THE FARM

DAVIESS COUNTY LION’S CLUB FAIR See

Fresh produce, meats, baked goods and a

Bring the Family and your picnic basket out

page 30 for a full schedule.

lot more!!

to Trunnell’s Farm Market and spend the

1205 Triplett Street, Corners of Triplett and

day celebrating Independence Day! 11am –

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE &

E. Parish Ave.

HISTORY HISTORIC COAL MINE TOUR The

5pm at the Utica Market.

Sat., April 22 thru October 28, 2017, 8am

Day in the Life of a 1930’s Rudy Coal Mine Miner Put on a coal mine helmet and join us on a trip through the Rudy Coal Mine, an historic Daviess County coal mine featuring the history of coal mining in the 19th

– 1pm

OWENSBORO SUMMER FEST PAGEANT

Tues. & Thurs., June 1 thru October 26,

2017 The 2nd Annual Owensboro Summer

2017, 8am – 1pm

Fest Pageant is a Kentucky State Festivals

Wed., Owensboro Health, Jun. 7 thru Sep. 27, 2017, 1:30 – 5pm

Century, along with the 1930’s time period.

Visit our website,

This tour is included with admission, but

owensbororegionalfarmersmarket.org,

space is limited. Please sign up at the

or check us out on Facebook at

admissions desk when you check into the

OwensboroRegionalFarmersMarket

museum. Enjoy the tour! The Museum is closed on Mondays.

SATURDAY, JULY 1 PRESERVATION STATION Preservation

preliminary pageant for girls and boys of all ages and all levels of experience. Attendees may purchase tickets at the door. Contestants may register on the event Facebook page www.facebook.com/ events/222624041522510/ or by email owensboroareafestivalpageant.com; 10am at the Owensboro Convention Center.

FREE KIDS AND ART IN ARTLAND AT

Station Market Days are held the first full

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF ART ARTLAND,

weekend of every month. Sat. 10am – 5pm

SUNDAY, JULY 2

and Sunday noon to 5pm with over 100

PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday, July

vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted,

1 for details.

an exciting new dimension in education, is an interactive art studio created especially for children ages 4 to 10. It is a special place designed to challenge and stimulate

and boutique items, live music, and food. Preservation Station Market and Event

MONDAY, JULY 3

to create works of art at their own pace.

Center, 9661 Hwy 56. Also open daily

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME Wee

ARTLAND is FREE and open to all. Hours:

Tues-Sat 10am - 5pm and Sunday Noon -

Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle

Closed on Mondays; Tuesday thru Friday

5pm. Call 270-993-7532, go to

Time for ages 3-5; 10 - 10:30am; Daviess

10am – 5pm; Saturday & Sunday 1– 4pm;

www.visitpreservationstation.com,

County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;

Closed Holidays.

or find us on Facebook.

dcplibrary.org

the imagination while allowing children

60 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

www.OwensboroParent.com

calendar

TUESDAY, JULY 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY v

FREE ALL-AMERICAN 4TH OF JULY The City of Owensboro invites the region to downtown Owensboro’s riverfront to celebrate the City Bicentennial with a 200th Birthday Party during the AllAmerican Fourth of July on Tuesday, July 4. This year, the Daviess County Fiscal Court will be showing support by joining the city for the celebration. The annual celebration will include food vendors and live music at both McConnell Plaza and the RiverPark Center Patio throughout the evening. The

www.OwensboroParent.com

Bicentennial Birthday Party will take place at 6:30pm with a signature cake marking the occasion and free cupcakes for the first 1,000 people. To cap off the evening, the skies above the Ohio River will lightup with the City’s largest fireworks display downtown with some of your favorite patriotic music at 9:15pm. The City encourages guests to arrive early to set-up your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening full of entertainment for the entire family. FREE 4TH ANNUAL 4TH FEST CELEBRATION AT THE OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER Celebration begins at 4pm until Fireworks end! Open to the public until fireworks end! FREE Activities, Games and Inflatables, for the Children in Exhibit Hall. Opportunity to purchase delicious All-American food and drinks. Get your tickets for the best seats in town to view the City of Owensboro fireworks display! Seating Tickets Available: Exhibit Hall Terrace Seating-$7.50 per person; Pier Seating – $10 per person; All American Seating-$35.00 per person; Red-Hot VIP – $450 table of 10. Interested in purchasing a Red Hot VIP table, please email sales@

owensborocenter.com. See the following website for complete description of each tier and activities: owensborocenter.com/ event/2017-4th-fest/?instance_id=1937 *Do not have to purchase seating tickets to enjoy FREE Activities in the Exhibit Halls.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5 U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All must wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2 are free, unless they are the only child, adults always free; 5 – 8pm; (270) 6851255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE CRAFTTEENS BY DCPL Drop by the Daviess County High School library from 10am to 1pm to make a cool craft! This program is open to high school students from any school in Daviess County. This week: Make a no-sew emoji pillow! FREE CLOTHING CELEBRATION Join us for a wild and wacky time of stories, songs, games, and crafts that celebrate what we wear at Daviess County Public Library from 2-3pm.

THURSDAY, JULY 6 OPEN JAM AT INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

calendar MUSIC MUSEUM Great time to come experience Bluegrass Music during open jam each month. Musicians begin at 6pm and usually jam until around 9pm. The Bluegrass Museum is open during this time, FREE for spectators and jammers! Call the International Bluegrass Museum for more information (270) 926-7891.

FRIDAY, JULY 7 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series of FREE outdoor concerts held each Friday evening on the beautiful Owensboro riverfront from the RiverPark Center through Smothers Park to the Owensboro Convention Center.

SATURDAY, JULY 8 TRUNNELL’S SWEET CORN DAY Come sample all things sweet corn including our grilled sweet corn as Trunnell’s 54 Farm Market celebrates Sweet Corn Day from 11am – 5pm.

62 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

BIG O MUSIC FEST 2017 AT REID’S ORCHARD This year’s lineup: Colt Swindell, Colt Ford, Moon Taxi, Dylan Scott, Craig Campbell, Tucker Beathard and Muscadine Bloodline will play the 2017 Big O Music Festival. FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS An outdoor concert series on Saturday nights May thru September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

sound, make-up and costumes and more! The fee for Grade 3-6 is $100, call (270) 683-5333 to register. FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, JULY 11 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8pm; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

MONDAY, JULY 10 SCHOOL’S OUT SCIENCE CAMP AT OMSH A partnership between OMSH and Kentucky Science Center for grades K-5! To register or for complete detailed information visit kysciencecenter.org or call 502-560-7128; 8am – 5pm July 10 – 14. DRAMA CAMP HOSTED BY TWO Theatre Workshop of Owensboro (TWO) will host their summer Drama Camps for young people during June and July. The third session will be the week of July 10-14th for Grades 3-6 only. The session will meet at 12 pm at the Trinity Centre, 407 W. 5th Street. Drama Camp Camp will feature theatre games, basics of theatre, lights and

FREE DUPLO PRESCHOOL FREE PLAY We'll be building up a good time at the library. Use our DUPLO bricks to construct wild creations and make new friends during our DUPLO Free Play. For ages 2-5. Space is limited. Tickets are required for all attendees for this special event. To find tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com starting June 12. www. eventbrite.com/e/duplo-preschool-freeplay-tickets-33858692260; 10 – 11am at Daviess County Public Library. FREE INTERACTIVE HARRY POTTER MOVIE EXPERIENCE Harry Potter as you’ve never seen it before! Join us for a screening of Harry Potter where you become part of the

www.OwensboroParent.com

movie. Choose a wand, catch a Golden Snitch, and more! Open to ages 13-19. To register, visit interactivehpmovie.eventbrite. com starting June 11th; 1 – 3pm at Daviess County Public Library.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12 ACTING INTENSIVE SUMMER CAMP This is a one-day camp for grades 5-12 taught by professional actors, will focus on strengthening existing acting skills, as well as teaching advanced concepts. Making

FREE CRAFTEENS Drop by the Daviess County High School library from 10am to 1pm to make a cool craft! This program is open to high school students from any school in Daviess County. This week: Make Shrinky Dinks jewelry! U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details.

FRIDAY, JULY 14 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

strong character choices, developing backstory, developing physical and

SATURDAY, JULY 15

emotional acting techniques. Prior acting

OWENSBORO PARENT KIDS TRIATHLON For ages 4-14! Visit our website for all details! We want this event to FUN!! If your child needs a flotation device, feel free to bring it along. If they arrive and would feel more comfortable with a kick board, we will have those available at the pool too. Let’s create a fun, healthy habit for years to come! Race Times: 11-14 Years Old-7:30am; 7-10 Years Old- 8:30am; 4-6 Years Old – 9:30am There is a mandatory pre-race meeting 7:15am, 8:15am, & 9:15am (before your respective heats)

experience strongly suggested. Lunch and snack will be provided for each camper. Register online riverparkcenter.org/ event/acting-intensive-summer-camp/ or registration for can be dropped off from 9 am-4pm at the RiverPark Center. FREE BELLE’S MAGICAL ADVENTURE Be our guest on a magical adventure into the world of Beauty and the Beast with fun thematic crafts and visit with Fairy Dust Entertainment’s princess; from 2 – 4pm at Daviess County Public Library.

www.OwensboroParent.com

FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, July 8 for details.

MONDAY, JULY 17 VIVID VISUAL ART CAMP Art Camp for grades entering 2nd – 8th provides children a wonderful introduction to several different forms of visual arts from July 17 - 21. From painting to collages to print and everything in between, this visual art week will give kids an opportunity to explore a new area of art each day. Projects will vary from individual pieces to a large scale group that will be installed and displayed at the RiverPark Center. Lunch and snack will be provided to each camper each day. Visit the RiverPark Center website riverparkcenter.org/event/ visualvividartcamp/ for complete list of details and registration information. FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, JULY 18 FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS The City of Owensboro is proud to announce the return of Bluegrass on the Banks to downtown Owensboro. This free outdoor concert series showcases bluegrass

July // August 2017 . OWENSBORO PARENT

calendar music acts from across the region on the Ohio riverfront for the community to enjoy. Performances will run from May 16 through September 29 on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Performances will take place at the River Overlook Stage from 7pm-9pm. Lineup of artists performing each week can be found at www.liveonthebanks.com/about/ bluegrass-on-the-banks U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, July 11 for details.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19 FREE TOMORROW’S WORLD WITH MR. BOND AND THE SCIENCE GUYS Learn how science is making a better world with new technologies and new forms of energy. Fun, hands-on activities make this a time you won’t want to miss! Tickets are required for all attendees for this special performance. To find tickets, visit www. eventbrite.com starting June 19. www. eventbrite.com/e/tomorrows-world-withmr-bond-and-the-science-guys-200tickets-33852040364; 2 – 3pm, 4 – 5pm, 6 – 7pm at Daviess County Public Library.

64 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2017

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

FRIDAY, JULY 21 FREE 44TH ANNUAL DUST BOWL Basketball Tournament The Dust Bowl Basketball Tournament has become the most anticipated event of the summer in the tri-state area. Every night from July 21 - 29 is a meet and greet with family, friends, classmates, supporters, and fans. This event is held at Kendall-Perkins Park, a beautiful two-acre park located in Owensboro, KY. The annual event includes Basketball Games, Music, Gospel Night, Kids’ Day, Community Service Recognition, Exhibitors, Vendors, and Concessions. This event is FREE and open to the public. Visit the Dust Bowl website for additional information, owensborodustbowl. org/ and Like on Facebook, www. facebook.com/DUST-BOWL-BasketballTournament-407262426148475/ FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

SATURDAY, JULY 22 FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, July 8 for details. YELLOW CREEK PARK CAR SHOW Open to all cars and trucks; Enjoy free food, dash plaques, door prizes, silent auction and more. This event supports Western Kentucky Raptor Center and Daviess County Animal Control and is hosted by Corvette Lovers Vette Club.

MONDAY, JULY 24 MAGNIFICENT MUSIC CAMP RiverPark Center is proud to have local favorite Randy Lanham host a whole week about different kinds of music and instruments from July 24 – 28 for students entering 2nd grade through 8th grade. If you love music, whether you have experience or not, this camp is for you! Lunch and snack will be provide for each camper each day of camp. Visit the RiverPark Center’s website riverparkcenter.org/ event/magnificent-music-camp/ for complete details and registration form and information. FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday,

www.OwensboroParent.com

July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, JULY 25 FREE TIE DYE FOR TEENS Join us at the library to make your own brilliant tie dyed t-shirt for the summer! All supplies (including basic white tees) will be provided. To register, visit tiedyeforteens. eventbrite.com starting June 25th. *Please be aware that this is an outdoor event and may need to be rescheduled if it rains; 1 – 3pm at Daviess County Public Library. U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, July 11 for details.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26 FREE CRAFTEENS Drop by the Daviess County High School library from 10 am to 1 pm to make a cool craft! This program is open to high school students from any school in Daviess County. This week: Make a book coaster! FREE STORY SLIME Have a gooey good time at the library with a yucky science story and a slimy experiment you can take home; from 2 – 3pm and 3 – 4pm at Daviess County Public Library.

www.OwensboroParent.com

FREE ONCE UPON A STORYTIME Build

SATURDAY, JULY 29

your imagination during our enchanted

FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, July 8 for details.

fairy tale storytime. Dress in your pajamas and join us as we enjoy stories, songs, and a fun engineering craft. For ages 0-5. Space is limited. Tickets are required for all attendees of this special event. To find

MONDAY, JULY 31 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com starting

TUESDAY, AUGUST 1

June 26. www.eventbrite.com/e/once-

FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS See Tuesday, July 18 for details.

upon-a-storytime-tickets-33858945016; 6 – 7pm at Daviess County Public Library. U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

FRIDAY, JULY 28

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, July 11 for details.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2 U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4

FREE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SPLASH! Brought

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

to you by Owensboro Health Join us for a fun, active evening with your kids at the Healthpark! Stay for a Dive-In Movie at 6:30pm. This event is free and open to the public. RSVP requested by phone at 270688-4855.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 FREE 1ST WEEKEND WONDERS AT WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN Volunteer work session - Join us as we prune, prep and plant The Garden from 9am – 12pm.

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1ST SATURDAY STOP BY: EXPERIENCE THE HERB GARDEN Learn about the different parts of The Garden at our 1st Saturday Stop By for adults and kids. Stop by for a special focus on our herb garden in full bloom at Western Kentucky Botanical Garden from 10am – 12pm. DOWNTOWN CRUISE-IN First Saturday of each month April thru October! Monthly Downtown Cruise-In with class cars, hot rods, and roadsters! August’s theme will be Ford - all makes and models welcome. Close to downtown restaurants, shopping, door prizes and Downtown Smothers Park. Enter at 3rd & Allen Streets. Gates open one hour before Cruise-In times. Visit us on Facebook or email sunset_cruiser@aol.com for details. ANNUAL CONCERT ON THE LAWN BY OSO AT KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE Save the date! PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday, July 1 for details. FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, July 8 for details.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6 FREE MOVIES ON THE RIVER “FINDING DORY” Movies Begin at Dusk Join us for Movies on the River where families come together for FREE films and family fun on the riverfront. “Finding Dory” reunites the friendly-but-forgetful blue-tang fish with her loved ones, in the meantime

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everyone one learns the true meaning of family! Concessions will be available, please no coolers or pets! PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday, July 1 for details.

MONDAY, AUGUST 7 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, July 11 for details.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9 BACK TO SCHOOL v

1ST SATURDAY FOR KIDS: WOOLY WORM FORECAST Fun Wooly Worm related activities for ages 5 – 11 from 10am – 12pm at Western Kentucky Botanical Garden.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11

lanhambrothersjamboree.com/product/ adult-ticket/ or tickets may also be purchased at the door. Group rates available by calling (270) 314-4331. SOUNDS OF INDEPENDENCE CONCERT - ALABAMA WITH OLIVIA FAYE More Independence Bank locations means more freedom for our customers. That’s why we’re celebrating the opening of our first Mayfield signature location with another Sounds of Independence concert at Graves County High School Football Field in Mayfield, KY. Best of all, account holders get free VIP seating. SOAP BOX DERBY SUMMER RALLY RACE Registration will open at 7:30am each day with the races beginning at 9am.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 SOAP BOX DERBY SUMMER RALLY RACE See Saturday, August 12 for details.

MONDAY, AUGUST 14 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 15 FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS See Tuesday, July 18 for details.

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAy See Tuesday, July 11 for details.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

THURSDAY, AUGUST 17

LANHAM BROTHERS JAMBOREE Come and enjoy a night of family entertainment with great country, bluegrass, and gospel music, hilarious comedy with audience participation, and lots of dancing! Special guests include: Joe Christian, Laura Briner, Skylar Cain, Gaining Ground, Leland Isbill, Jeff Hardesty, Chris Armstrong, Richard Clark and the Foot Stompin’ Express Cloggers Dance Troupe. Show time 7 PM. Doors open 5 PM. Purchase tickets online http://

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19 FREE OWENSBORO HEALTH HARVEST DAYS Free blood pressure checks, health screenings and giveaways at the Owensboro Regional Farmers' Market at

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1205 Triplett St. from 8am - 1pm.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23

tracks and more! Visit our website for further helpful information www.

SOUNDS OF INDEPENDENCE CONCERT

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

THURSDAY, AUGUST 24

Outdoor-Adventures.html

- JENNIFER NETTLES WITH RODNEY ATKINS More Independence Bank locations means more freedom for our customers. That’s why we’re celebrating our Madisonville locations with another Sounds of Independence concert at Ballard Convention Center in Madisonville. In September 2012, we opened our first location on North

2017 RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW AKC All Breed Dog Show along with obedience and rally trials. 100’s of dogs from all over the U.S. & a few foreign countries. Enjoy the competition, watch the grooming process & learn more about dogs. Vendors onsite with canine products. Bring the family & enjoy the fur!

Main Street and were thrilled to launch

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25

a second on East Center Street in

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 See Friday, July 7 for details.

February. Best of all, account holders get free VIP seating.

2017 RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG Show See Thursday, August 24 for details.

MONDAY, AUGUST 21 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, July 11 for details.

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2017 RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW See Thursday, August 24 for details.

MONDAY, AUGUST 28 2017 RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW See Thursday, August 24 for details. FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE See Monday, July 3 for details.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

TAKE A KID OUTDOORS DAY Open to Ages 8-15, activities available for children under 7; The event will be held from 9 am – 12 noon. Join us and learn hunter safety, ATV safety, shoot live firearms, and learn animal

Tuesday, July 11 for details.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30 U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, July 5 for details

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