Owensboro Parent May/June 2016 by Owensboro Parent Magazine

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may // june 2016 FAMILY LIFE

the best mother’s day gift of all [10] parental control [12] mother’s day letters [14] #beadsforbaby [18] CO MMUNIT Y

summer fun photos from facebook [20] making a difference [24] parents’ guide to the bar-b-q fest [26] family fun at the ballpark [30]

SUMME R GUIDE

DISCOVE R

[63] taking a stand [66] back to the backyard [68] kids eat free list [70] may/june calendar

[30]

[20]

www.OwensboroParent.com

[18]

[34] summer activity guide [46] owensboro parent kids triathlon [48] snack strong [50] exploration station [54] oh, the places you will go summer staycation ideas

[26]

[24]

[66]

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may // june 2016

from the editor Last month for Spring Break, our family decided to stay home. This was the first Spring Break in years that our family didn’t go to the beach or to visit Jeff ’s family in Chicago. In just four months, 2016 had proven to be a busy, chaotic year for the Sorces and we just couldn’t take the idea of traveling. Worried about cabin fever, we set out to have fun in Owensboro. Although the weather narrowed our options, our family of four managed to fill our days with fun. On one of the nicer days we drove out to Diamond Lake to feed the ducks and fish. This is something I can remember doing as a child and it was special to see the same amazement on my kids’ faces as hundreds of fish fought for a small piece of bread. We also spent some time at the Daviess County Public Library. Avery is so proud to take in her book bag, comb through the shelves and pick out as many books as her bag will hold. This visit we hit up the movies too, finding some classics from my childhood that we got to watch together. Anyone remember Andre and Dennis the Menace? They are even funnier when watching with your own daughter! DCPL offers a lot of perks to members, two of which we took advantage of during our break. First, we perused the seed catalog and took home some flower seeds for Avery to plant. She loves being in charge of watering them and we can’t wait to see them bloom in a few weeks. We also checked out a membership card to the Owensboro Museum of Science & History, which gave us free entry for the week. Both the kids love the play area at the Museum and we love it because there are age-appropriate activities for both Avery and Reed. This week at home was nothing extravagant, but we loved it. We made some fun memories together as a family and for relatively no cost to us at all. This is exactly what I love about Owensboro. We are a community that focuses on families, providing a multitude of events for our children to explore, adventure and most importantly have fun. This issue is dedicated to just that, providing you a Summer Activity Guide for your family. We have tracked down camps, children’s programming, festivals, and more and put them in one, comprehensive guide for you to utilize this summer. I encourage you to celebrate your family this summer. Make memories here at home that will probably not cost a lot, but will last a lifetime.

Ashley Sorce, Editor ashley@owensboroparent.com

Publisher/Creative Director Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com Editor Ashley Sorce ashley@owensboroparent.com Advertising Sales Brock Quinton brock@tannerwest.com Robert Williams robert@owensboroparent.com Graphic Designers Taylor West taylor@tannerwest.com Andrea Roberson andrea@tannerwest.com Photographer David Grinnell david@tannerwest.com Contributors Christina Dalton Chad Hart Mary Higginbotham Elaine Martin Sally Martin Danny May Dr. Shanna McGinnis Elizabeth Muster Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt Contact Information Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5414 www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/owensboroparent Subscribe Delivery of Owensboro Parent is available by visiting owensboroparent.com/subscribe 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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family life

{ by: lora wimsatt }

the best

gift of all

other’s Day – and my children will send greeting

neighbor’s garden, thrust toward me in a grubby, sweaty

cards with pink glitter and pretty flowers on the

fist as my child beamed at me with a happy shout of

front and even more flowery verses inside. Someone will

“Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy!”

take me out to eat, everyone will stop by or call or at least

Those were the days of impromptu hugs and easy

send me a text message.

“I love you’s,” when we all looked forward to T.G.I.F.

I read the cards carefully, touched by the tribute to

television, I tucked my children in at night and they

unconditional love and appreciation for having always

thought I was a genius when I knew the answer to the most

“been there,” but am never really sure whether they

obscure questions in “Trivial Pursuit.”

selected this message specifically for me or if this was just

They still turned to me for advice and assistance

the first card in the display rack.

back then, whether it was how to deal with the bully who

Whether this card was selected just for me or not,

pushed my youngest son off his bike on the way home from

however, I know my children love me.

baseball practice every afternoon, or how to pull together

What I struggle with is whether I deserve such love.

a legitimate science experiment that still looked cool even

I questioned my worthiness even in those long ago

though they had forgotten all about this assignment until

years when the day meant a bouquet of drooping flowers

the last minute.

that looked suspiciously like the ones I’d admired in a

But I was never quite as confident as I seemed and

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always secretly worried that they would realize at some

nostalgically, and introduced to their own children.

point that I was just winging it most of the time. I am still

amazed that my daughter actually listened to me when I

I had introduced purely out of desperation, as otherwise

suggested that perhaps baby blue eye shadow and pink

nobody would ever have gone to bed at all on that magical

blush weren’t the most flattering make-up palettes for her

night – became a cherished tradition; and the Easter

bronze complexion.

bunny hid baskets at my children’s house as a matter of

The idea of opening one gift on Christmas Eve – which

course, just because he had always done so at my house.

They never caught on.

It was with a mixture of guilt and relief that I waved

good-bye as each of my little fledglings spread his or her wings and flew from the nest to begin their own lives, and eventually their own families.

But then a curious and unexpected thing happened.

I noticed that my children were doing a lot of the same

things as parents that I had done. Whether this was for better or for worse is certainly debatable, but I found it

Amazed, I watched my kids introduce their children to “Haunted Puppet Stories” and automatically say “Buckle up, little duck” when my grandchildren got in the car.

I didn’t do everything right, and I will be the first to

acknowledge that my kids discarded some of my parenting habits in exchange for better choices.

But this year, as I watch three of my children raising

families of their own, they can keep the cards and the calls and even the obligatory dinner. I’m happy with the

remarkable nevertheless that all those family game nights

best Mother’s Day gift of all: Seeing my children become

that everyone had moaned about (“This is so lame!”) and

positive, nurturing, loving mothers and fathers themselves.

that more often or not ended with tears and accusations of

“Cheater!”

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were

suddenly

remembered

fondly,

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

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family life

{ Q&A with christina dalton,

M S S W, C S W

parental

control Q: I have a 5-year-old son and I keep reading about gluten-free diets. My son has some digestive issues and I wonder if this is something that might help him. Do you know anything about a gluten-free diet and the benefits?

}

A: To be honest, I am not that familiar

Q: My teenage daughter has been

with gluten-free diets and I had to do

lying to me recently. This is not

a little research to be able to answer

like her and I am not sure how to

your question properly. I probably

handle this. I want to scream at her

have just enough information to

and ground her for life. They are

be dangerous! First and foremost, I

little, white lies but lies still. I have

think before starting anything new

never had this problem before. Any

like this it is a good idea to consult

suggestions?

your primary physician and make sure that they think it’s ok to start

A: The little, white lies…they start

this. And you’ll probably get a

small, but we know they can turn

wealth of information from them as well. From my research, it appears there is a big divide when it comes to gluten-free diets; you have those that think it’s a crock and you have many supporters that it has helped greatly. Most people that go on a gluten-free diet either have an allergy to it or they may have Celiac disease. There are others that have small children and they have switched to a gluten-free diet with lots of success stories, from improved sleep, better digestion and even improved behavior. Is it best for your family? You won’t know until you try it. I think the key is what you eat, not what you don’t eat. The

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into big lies later down the road. I’m not sure how old your daughter is but teenager says it all. When kids are in adolescence they are trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in. I don’t think it is uncommon for something like lying to pop up as a new behavior during this time period. Kids are trying to fit in and sometimes I think they lie to please friends without going through you. They want to look cool. They are wanting to find their independence. My suggestion to you is to confront this behavior head on. I do think that it can start small and become something much bigger over time. And it sounds like this is an

most important factor to me is what

unusual behavior for your daughter

are you eating instead of gluten? Be

and could very well be related to

sure to read labels carefully and

an isolated incident. I think the

compare nutritional values.

last thing you want to do is let her

There are a lot of people out

think that she has gotten away with

there that have had great

the lie going unnoticed. Your best

success with going gluten-

approach is to bide your time and

free and like I said, you

wait for something that she is really

never know until you try!

looking forward to doing and you

Best of luck to you.

don’t let her go because of her lying.

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By taking this approach she will know

Harriet Tubman. The story of Harriet

different but we are all human beings

that you mean business and think twice

Tubman and the Underground Railroad

before lying to you in future.

Train was her favorite book and the first

and should be treated with respect. I

time she took an interest in reading.

sometimes think that being prejudice

Q: My daughter is eight years old.

During that time, she asked me the

is a learned behavior. You would think

In February at her school they were

same questions that your child asked

that in 2016 people would not be that

studying slavery and discussing Black

you. Why? Why did people do that? It

History Month. She asked me why

was a very eye opening moment for me

way anymore. But some people are and

people would ever have slaves and she

seeing how that had to look from her

did not understand why people did that.

perspective. And I didn’t have a good

acceptance. There is no good answer

I think I did an alright job of talking to

answer. There was nothing I could say

to that question but you can use it as

her but I just wondered how you would

that could answer her questions. I don’t

have answered that question?

know why people did that and I will never understand it. It is, however, a

A: Oh wow! This is such a tough

good opportunity to talk to your child

question. I remember when my daughter

about racism and prejudice and how we

was in third grade studying slavery and

should all love each other. We are all

www.OwensboroParent.com

it’s our job as parents to teach love and

a teaching moment. I’m sure you did a great job. Thanks for the question!

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

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

family life

Dear Mom,

This letter is for all the times I forgot to say “Thank You” for all the little things you do for me that go unnoticed, and for all the times I never said “I Love You.” Even though we’ve been talking about college all year, you probably never thought this day would come. The day when I graduate high school and get ready to start my new life at college without you. As I’ve spent the past few weeks saying goodbye to friends and teachers, I’ve realized I haven’t taken the time to say goodbye to you. Granted, you still get to tell me not to eat ice cream for breakfast for a few more months, but my days at the Martin Household are numbered. So, I would like to take a few minutes to say thank you for the past 18 (almost 19) years. Many memories swirl through my mind when I try to think of the clearest ones of you that I’m thankful for. Some good, some bad, and some that I will try to suppress for years. First, I want to thank you for being a great mom even when you were having a horrible day. Thank you for telling me that no, that is not a good color on you. Thank you for giving me the courage to try new things when I was scared to step out of my comfort zone. Thank you for driving me around and sacrificing your time and money. For all the other sacrifices I don’t even know about, thank you from the bottom of my heart. One of the greatest things I’m thankful for is more of an experience that expands over several instances. I will always remember and appreciate the genuine interest you have in my friends and their lives. Thank you for wanting

to hear about Sarah’s and Trey’s college choices, Mason’s random questions, Lauren’s go-cart accident, Michael’s requests to take our dog to prom, and so many more. Thank you for giving me the security of always having a home with two loving parents where my friends can always feel welcome, even when I’m not there. (By the way, Mary Kate has our garage code and Cameron broke our Christmas tree…sorry!) One of the best things I can thank you for is a genetic gift…my red hair. Growing up, you continually taught me to not feel isolated or ashamed for having red hair. You taught me how to stand out and be strong by not being put down by snide remarks growing up. That lesson is one that I will be forever grateful of as I move on in my life, wherever it takes me. Not only my hair, but you taught me that even though I might be having a bad day, there’s always a way to turn my day around. However, the best lesson you taught me isn’t just a lesson, it’s a choice to always see everything as an adventure. Someone left his watch at our house? Let’s make an adventure out of it. We’re camping in the backyard and it starts storming? A rainy adventure. We’re in Washington D.C. and our flight gets cancelled? Think of all the endless adventures waiting for us! There are people who go on adventures and people who are adventures. I’m lucky enough that I have an adventure for a Mom. And I’ve gotten to go on lots of adventures over the past 18 years all thanks to you. Our time living together is coming to an end and that idea is scary. But, you’ve prepared me well for the next chapter of my life and I know you’re ready for me to move out so you can have an extra bedroom space. (Just kidding…a little bit.) If you took all the time we’ve spent watching Scandal, Parks and Recreation, and Survivor together, that still wouldn’t be enough time for me to tell you all the ways that I love you. I don’t say it enough, but I do love you. In my defense, the majority of our conversations happen in the morning when you are wide awake and I’m not a morning person. However, I promise to make more of an effort in these last few months as long as I get coffee first. I was your “guinea pig” first-born and the first to be your daughter. I was your first kindergarten send off, first 5th grade graduation, first teenager with braces, first high schooler, first child with a driver’s license, and now your first high school graduate and college student. Mom, you are my biggest blessing, my biggest fan, and everything I hope to be someday. Thank you for being a fabulous example of what a woman should be. OP

Sally has new adventures each day with her family, is a senior at Apollo, and plans to attend UK in the fall with a double major in Media Arts and Marketing.

Love,Your Daughter Sally 14 OWENSBORO PARENT

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Dear Sally,

Do you remember when I showed you a picture recently of a cute monogrammed umbrella I am planning on getting you for your first semester at UK in the fall? Hold onto that thought, because I have some background I need to share with you first. Before you were born, when your dad and I had just been married a few years (while learning how to be grownups ourselves), we discovered we were pregnant with you. Shocked is not a descriptive enough word to begin to explain how we felt. We did not even permit ourselves to have a houseplant for fear of it wilting in a spider-webcovered corner. We read books and surrounded ourselves with seasoned parents to glean hope and wisdom, but when we first saw you, something magical happened to both me and your dad. Without even communicating, we both somehow came together and formed this imaginary umbrella covering our new little family unit. Perhaps that is what we thought parenting was: creating a team to cover you with care and shield you from anything that could harm you. Those first few years were so easy to keep our umbrella safely in place over your sweet, freckly frame. When you crawled and then walked, we just moved with you or led you in the direction we were going. Life as parents shifted a bit when your sisters came along. Our image of the safety umbrella stayed, but in my mind, we upgraded from a small, collapsible model to a strong, giant golf-sized umbrella so we could all five huddle together. Playdates and preschool entered the scene as well as the realization that I had to slowly release my grip on your hand as I was still gripping the handle of our canopy. I watched you thrive in environments away from my direct care. Teachers, friends, and family had the privilege of sharing in the joys and discoveries you were making. Gymnastics classes, sleepovers with grandparents, and field trips to the fire station were eye-opening for you. You told me every single detail of your adventures when you came home, leaping into my arms with sparkling eyes and your sweet little words that would eventually be corrected by a speech pathologist. I never paid attention to your “dropped r or l sounds” – I only heard your stories of new discoveries or conquered fears. I would tuck you in at night, safely in your fluffy princess bed, which was nestled safely under our family umbrella shield. Elementary and the hormonal middle school years flew by at lightning fast speed. Glasses and goofy braces were not enough to slow you down from your extremely driven personality. When teachers would explain your grades and

accomplishments, I would always make sure each knew that we were not forcing you to achieve these high goals; you had this inner drive that was totally foreign to me. I was just happy that you could tie your shoes and brush your own teeth. It was during those years too that I started hearing you dreaming more specifically about your future. Your younger years’ future wishes were to ride unicorns and wear ballet shoes while dancing with gummy bears. We would laugh as a family, but I always treasured the thought of your tuxedo dressed dad prancing in a fantasy forest with you. Hearing the words, “college,” “big city” and “career” made me shudder. How would our umbrella stretch that far to keep you safe? High school became a greenhouse for you. Your entrance into Apollo with semi-frizzy hair and an apprehensive stance morphed you into a young woman with a warm smile to match your confident stride. While still clutching your sisters under our family covering, your dad and I waved goodbye many times as you stepped out on your own to tackle your goals. We snuck many times and watched from a distance, slowly tracking your progress and quietly cheering you on. The details of your adventures became less and less, so I learned to piece together pieces of your fun life by stalking your Twitter and Instagram. Even though you used our quirky family happenings as humor in many of your tweets by virtually rolling your eyes at us, I know you did it because you were happy in our umbrellacovered life. So, now the time has come when I need to reassess our umbrella. Our original goal was to keep you safe from life’s storms, to shield you from harm by keeping you close. I see now that through the paths you have walked with us, the goal has actually been for you to edge closer and closer to the end of our reach. The goal of parenting is actually to hold your child close for her to grow strong enough to step out on her own. My sweet Sally, as you walk soon in your cap and gown, know that I won’t be seeing a diploma in your hand. Instead, you’ll be holding that cute monogrammed umbrella. Our prayer is for this gift to allow you the freedom to walk into your future with the assurance that you are strong and capable to handle all the elements you will encounter. Oh, and don’t forget your rain boots – you may just see a gummy bear that needs a dance partner. OP

Martin views each day as an adventure in her roles as wife, mom, owner of Pigtails and Cowlicks, and writing coach at Meadow Lands Elementary School.

Love, Mom www.OwensboroParent.com

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family life

“God will either give us what we ask for or give us what we would have asked for if we knew everything he knows.”

ackie Smith first heard this quote by Timothy Keller at church two days after she received

the heartbreaking diagnosis of premature ovarian failure at age 29. Now the quote graces her Etsy site where she sells jewelry to raise money for the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) procedure she and her husband, Zach, hope will allow them to conceive. Of course it will take more than money, but they faithfully pray that the forces of nature will combine with medical advancements and a selfless act to make their baby dream come true. Zach and Jackie Smith’s love story sounds like something from a Nicholas Sparks novel. The two had known each other as kids but lost touch. After Jackie became Facebook friends with Zach’s mother in 2010, she reached out to Zach and his brother, too. Zach was the first to respond, and during their first dinner date, they hit it off immediately. In 2013, Zach proposed to Jackie in New York City on the 4th of July (her favorite holiday) and presented her with his great grandmother’s ring. A year later, they married at the Owensboro Convention Center surrounded by family and friends. { by: elizabeth muster } 16 OWENSBORO PARENT

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The following winter Jackie and Zach decided www.OwensboroParent.com

to start a family and stopped using birth control.

both of them laugh lightheartedly about Jackie’s

Then the waiting game began. After four months

compulsion to find just the right person, it’s not

without a menstrual cycle, Jackie called her doctor

something they take lightly.

and went in for blood work and an ultrasound. Her

First, they asked Jackie’s cousin in California.

ovaries were so small they were difficult to find,

She agreed, but due to age her egg development

and her hormone levels indicated a problem. The

would not have been ideal for the transplant. Next

numbers showed that she had already gone through

Jackie took to the web, scouring countless donor

menopause, despite the fact that she was not yet

agencies and clinics for someone who had similar

thirty years old. A fertility clinic in Nashville

traits, beliefs, and personality as herself with a clean

confirmed their fears and gave Jackie a mere 5%

medical history. The possibilities seemed endless,

chance of ever ovulating in her lifetime.

yet none were quite right.

picking out bathroom towels,” the couple joked.

The day Jackie received that phone call was the

It was “worse than

hardest day of her life as she “grieved over something

that never would be.” But this woman of high spirit

Facebook. When she came across one of her sorority

and fierce determination won’t give up on becoming

sisters, a smart, athletic young woman in her early

a mother. The Smiths started searching for an egg

twenties, Jackie wondered aloud to Zach why she

donor so Jackie could experience pregnancy and

hadn’t found this woman on a donor site. Then

Zach could “pass on his good looks,” she explained,

Jackie wrote “the strangest message of [her] life,”

giving her husband a playful nudge. And though

asking the friend if she had ever considered being

Exasperated, Jackie took a break and logged onto

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

anonymous, agreed not to file her paperwork and focus solely on donating eggs for the Smiths. “Jackie and Zach are the kind of people meant to be parents. To me, giving them the gift of egg donation means that I’m helping fulfill their dreams. And sharing a part of me, that they literally could not get themselves, is the selfless and Christian thing to do,” she said. an egg donor. And serendipitously, the sorority sister replied that she was actually in the process of filing

. May // June 2016

more than a signature on a contract. Jackie has already begun hormone therapy to prepare her body to accept

her paperwork to become one.

the transferred eggs.

Facebook messages became phone

to and from the fertility clinics will

calls as the talk of egg donation

be involved for Zach and Jackie

became more serious.

and their egg donor.

Jackie’s

sorority sister, who wishes to remain

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But their arrangement will take

Much travel

They will

incur numerous fees for lab work

www.OwensboroParent.com

in addition to the estimated $20,000 cost of the actual IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) procedure. And, because infertility treatments are seen as optional, none of these expenses will be covered by insurance. But Zach and Jackie have faith that the time, anxiety, and cost will all pay out the biggest reward in the end -- a baby of their own.

to the woman struggling with infertility

The Smiths both have additional jobs in order to offset the expenses. Besides his career in construction, Zach coaches football at South Spencer Middle School and does landscaping work on the side. Jackie is the business development manager at the downtown campus of Owensboro Community and Technical College, and six years ago she started her own jewelry-making business, Jackie Blue Handmade. Her beautiful creations of gemstones, beads, metals, and various other materials can be found in local boutiques such as Shelley and Friends, Bella Ragazza, and Embellish. You can see examples of her work and request custom orders on Facebook, Instagram, and Etsy. Just look for #beadsforbaby. Jackie says jewelry making started as a hobby, but the costs of IVF motivated her to make it into something more. She credits her mother, Shelley Schmitt, not only for exposing her to costume jewelry as the owner of Shelley and Friends Salon and Boutique, but for leading by example. Jackie claims she gets her “I’m-going-to-

I have been in your place In those cold metal stirrups and pink paper gown staring at black and white shapes shifting on the screen, searching for a follicle – A small hope of what might be. I have heard the advice Eat this; take that. Try this, not that. Just relax; just adopt. Maybe it’s not meant to be. From those who mean well but cut deeper. I will be your shoulder to cry on When your body says it’s impossible, but your heart says, “It is everything.” When your numbers come back too high or too low and you feel like a pin cushion. Because you are tired, just so tired.

make-it-happen” from her mom. Creating the necklaces and bracelets also keeps her mind busy since infertility can be so “emotional and overwhelming,” Jackie shared.

The couple has also been blessed by the financial and

emotional support of family, friends, and their church. Last fall, 40 families donated items for a two-day garage sale. Zach and Jackie agree that the best thing people can do is to just ask how things are going every once in a while. Jackie emphasizes that they don’t need a quick fix, just an “I’m here for you.” And, of course, all prayers are appreciated because Zach and Jackie know that their love for each other and their “faith will get [them] through this 100%.”

I will pray for you As the bills pile up, and insurance won’t pay. When you throw away another test that you just knew would be your blue line, plus sign, or happy face. And hope that one day you will find your peace. I will always remember The shots, the maybes, and the disappointments Even though they are faded by morning sickness, swollen feet, labor pains, and a whole new kind of tired Because they brought my miracle to me. - Elizabeth Muster

Elizabeth Muster has been a teacher for 13 years, a wife for 10 years, and a mother for 8 months. Every day is a learning experience.

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presents

photos from facebook

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

presents

photos from facebook

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

community

{ by: ashley sorce }

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Owensboro Parent sat down with outstanding teenager, Caitlyn Blandford, 13, to talk about her Academic Team project— creating cancer “care packages” for local chemotherapy patients. Caitlyn is in 7th grade at Burns Middle School and participates on the academic team, is vice president of Kentucky Youth Assembly, is a member of the Student Council, and plays JV soccer for Apollo High School. She may seem like just a normal girl, but Caitlyn is doing something a lot of people (at any age) have yet to accomplish… she is making a difference.

www.OwensboroParent.com

How did this project begin? This project began as a competition for the Academic Team in the division of Community Problem Solving. I knew that I wanted to do a project that not only could my community relate to, but so could my family. There are many lines of cancer in my family. This means I too am at a high risk of getting diagnosed with cancer some time in my life.

What accomplishments have you made? I have gotten about 75 bags put together and donated with the help of Beth Cecil from Owensboro Health Park, donations from Wal-Mart, Tamarack Elementary, West Louisville Elementary, and Owensboro Christian Church. Southern Oaks Elementary just collected supplies for me last week unexpectedly. I was interviewed for the Messenger Inquirer and I was put on the cover!

I placed first at state with this project and I get to go to

the international competition in East Lansing, Michigan in June.

What is the next step for you?

When I am older I plan on going to either UK or Notre

Dame for college. I love math, so engineering would be a good career, but I also love government.

What would you tell other teenagers like you on the importance of making a difference? I would tell teenagers to try something that makes a difference. Maybe just helping someone bag groceries to their car. I know that after what I did I felt like a much better person and that my personality has changed for the better. I hope theirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will too.

Who has inspired you to make a difference?

People that have inspired me to make a difference are

my family members and cancer survivors as well.Â My grandfather always volunteers and my grandma is so supportive in what we do. Plus, just cancer patients in general. Cancer patients go through pain that we could never imagine. They are true fighters in our community.

Ashley is mom to Avery, almost 5, and Reed, just turned 1, a small business owner, and editor of Owensboro Parent, the best magazine around. www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

community

ASHLEIGH WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Come for the fun, stay for the food. While much of the live entertainment at the International Bar-B-Q Festival is geared toward adults, organizers strive to provide something for everyone, especially the young and young at heart. Here are four family-friendly options to enjoy at the Fest.

C A R N I VA L

{ by: danny may } 26 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

The carnival at the Bar-B-Q Fest started with just a few kiddie rides in a small area downtown. Since Casey’s Rides brought their show to the Festival 25 years ago, they have improved the carnival attractions each year and built it into a local family tradition. “We’ve grown with the Festival all these years,” says Debbie Green, Owner of Casey’s Rides. “The Bar-B-Q Fest is one of our biggest events every year. It’s been a great relationship that’s really been successful for both of us.” This year, Casey’s plans to bring 30 rides, six food concession booths, and ten midway games, which will be split evenly between two locations at the Festival. The lot next to the bridge (across from Wax Works) will feature a few more thrill rides geared for teens, while the grass area at 2nd & Frederica (where the International Bluegrass Center will be built) has a few more family rides. Tickets are $1.25 each, but Casey’s offers two value packs: 10 tickets for $10, and 26 tickets for $20. Rides average three www.OwensboroParent.com

tickets per ride. Thrill rides can be four or five tickets while kiddie rides are two tickets. At Casey’s shows, you will find traditional favorites like the Ferris Wheel, Tilt-a-Whirl, Carousel, Sizzler (Scrambler), Gravitron, and the Music Express. Green says the Superman ride is their most popular attraction. “It has everything; music, spinning, height. We sell more tickets to that ride than any other.” The new attraction this year is the “Walking Dead,” a walkthrough that Green says has a few tricks and surprises but is not too intense. Recommended age is 7 - preteen. Families returning to the carnival this year may notice the rides have a fresh coat of paint with new color schemes. Several rides also got new LED lights this year. That’s because Casey’s strives to maintain a clean, safe environment to help give parents peace of mind. “We have random drug tests for our employees. We own our concession stands, so it’s important to us that they’re run the right way. We also have team leaders who oversee each section of our operation.” Speaking of concessions, the midway sells the usual amusement park treats; cotton candy, funnel cakes, deep fried Oreos, caramel apples, Polish or Italian sausage, and made-from-scratch pizza. Families will notice little “extras” like benches and covered picnic tables at Casey’s shows. “We invest in things like that to make the experience nicer for families, rather than new, expensive thrill rides. We look at the whole experience for families while they’re at our events,” Green said. “It’s our goal as a company to entertain the entire family. Other companies may have newer, more expensive thrill rides, but we consider ourselves a family amusement park atmosphere. That’s what we bring with our show. Our rides are fun for toddlers, teens, and mom and dad too.”

T H E F A M I LY P AV I L I O N For more than twenty years, The Family Pavilion at First Baptist Church has been a “must do” at the Bar-B-Q Fest. The event is held Saturday, May 14 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the rear parking lot of First Baptist Church. “The Family Pavilion is a lot of fun,” says event organizer, Brent Phillips. “We love to serve the community. This is our way to provide a free, fun place for parents to bring their kids during the Bar-B-Q Festival.” This year the Family Pavilion will feature five inflatables: two bounce houses, two obstacle courses, and a sports combo baseball and football toss. There will also be face painting, temporary tattoos, balloon animals, and free popcorn and water to all who come. Each kid gets a wrist band that is good for the whole day. “Kids can race, climb, jump, and throw as much as they want to. It makes it nice for families because kids can play for a while, then take a break, go eat, and come back to play again if they want to,” Phillips said. This is Phillips’ first year to coordinate the Family Pavilion, although he’s volunteered at the event several years. “We try to keep it fresh each year. Last year we had a petting zoo, but this www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

year we added more inflatables since that company couldn’t come this year.” Christian Family Radio (WCVK out of Bowling Green) will be broadcasting live that day as well, playing music throughout the parking lot and interacting with the kids. First Baptist funds the Family Pavilion from the church’s “serve budget,” which Phillips says is money set aside to love on the community. “We love to serve our community any way we can. The Family Pavilion is one way we do that.”

5K RUN The International Bar-B-Q Festival 5K began is a project that was organized by the Festival board. Now the run is organized by the Owensboro Family YMCA. “The 5K is another example of our mission (as a board) to provide avenues for non-profits to raise funds. We get a small fee to help cover Festival costs and the YMCA raises funds through sponsors and participants for their programs during the year,” explained Sharon NeSmith, Festival co-chair. The 5K is more than a race, it’s an experience. “The great thing about the International Bar-B-Q Fest 5K presented by Humana Vitality is that it is a FAMILY event,” says Chad Hart, Owensboro Family YMCA Program Director. “Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, and children can all participate. We have walking divisions for those who cannot run and we also allow strollers!” Thousands participate every year. The race uses top of the

28 OWENSBORO PARENT

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line technology to make it a top-notch event with music, crowds to cheer on all the participants, and refreshments at the finish line. Not to mention the fun and entertainment at the Festival following the race. Each year, 5-8 local elementary schools register school teams. Hart says the Bar-B-Q Fest 5K has between 500-800 young participants from school registrations alone.

P I E E AT I N G C O N T E S T The kids’ Pie Eating Contest is a long-standing tradition at the Bar-B-Q Fest that was started the first year of the Festival in 1979. “This event is a ton of fun,” says coordinator, Debbie Creamer. “But we only have room for 10 to participate, so parents need to sign their kids up fast. It’s also fun to watch though.” The Pie Eating Contest is a free event for kids 12 and under. Each contestant is presented with a Chocolate Pie donated from Kohler’s Bakery. Without using their hands, contestants must eat the pie and flip the empty pie shell onto their head. The first three contestants to complete the task win a cash prize. All contestants will receive a free Bar-B-Q Festival tee shirt, which comes in handy since they’ll have pie all over themselves! This year’s contest takes place on the overlook pier at noon on Saturday, May 14. OP

Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner+West and a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very active boys, 6 and 8.

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

community

family fun at the ballpark It’s

the crack of the ball off a wooden bat. It’s the way the

{ by: danny may }

home games this summer at Chautauqua Park.

green in the outfield and the dirt in the infield contrast

with the bright uniforms. It’s the sun in your eyes, a warm breeze blowing, and the smell of popcorn. And there’s nothing like a ballpark hotdog.

There are lots of things that make baseball America’s favorite

past time, but if you ask Owensboro Oilers Owner, Charlie Pierce,

HISTORY OF THE PROFESSIONAL OILERS

The Owensboro Oilers name has quite a legacy. The Oilers

began as a Kit League (Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee) Class D professional league from 1936 - 1955.

and his trusty sidekick, Glen Snow, the best thing about going to a

baseball game is making family memories.

the name, Owensboro Oilers) built a field where Gabes Tower now

stands.

“When I was a kid, being at the ballpark - life didn’t get any

As Pierce tells it, an oil man by the name of Mr. Miller (hence

better!” Pierce said, recalling childhood memories of watching

baseball games with his father back in the days when Cokes only

Owensboro Museum of Science and History has a large team photo

cost a nickel. Pierce started playing as soon as he was old enough to

on display. The Daviess County Public Library has photo albums

swing a bat. By his high school years, he sometimes played in three leagues at one time. “It meant so much to me then that I want a chance now to help other young people enjoy the game like I did,” Pierce recalled.

In those days, all professional players started in Class D. The

full of memories from those days.

After the team disbanded, the brand was lost to history.

Fast forward to 2006, when Charlie Pierce saw an opportunity

It’s those types of memories, and that type of nostalgia, that

to revive the brand for a collegiate team that was forming. Since

Pierce and Snow hope citizens of Owensboro/Daviess County will

no one was using the name “Owensboro Oilers,” Pierce licensed

embrace by coming out to support the Owensboro Oilers at their

the name and the Owensboro Oilers were back on the field

30 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

www.OwensboroParent.com

F O R M I N G T H E C O L L E G I AT E T E A M

The collegiate version of the Oilers joined the Kitty League,

which was started in Paducah. Collegiate leagues are gaining popularity with college players because it allows them to spend the summer developing their skills against other players.

It’s also a way to get scouted, since collegiate summer leagues

play with wooden bats similar to bats the pros use, rather than composite bats like college teams use. “Theoretically, a pro scout could project how a player might do in the Major Leagues a little more accurately based on performance in a wooden bat league versus a college team,” Pierce explained.

The Kitty league started with four teams: Fulton, Kentucky;

Union City, Tennessee; Farmington, Missouri; and Cape Gireardieu, Missouri. The Oilers joined to make a fifth team. Then Mackenzie, Tennessee made six. That was April of 2006 and the first games were scheduled for June.

To pull together a team that fast, Pierce turned to Kentucky

Wesleyan coaches to help fill a roster. The Mike Horn Foundation sponsored the team, which allowed them to buy the franchise rights and uniforms. That first year, Owensboro won the league championship right out of the gate. One advantage might have been the fact that Wesleyan was playing in a wooden bat conference. “What we did was invite some of the best players from all the teams in Wesleyan’s conference, and several of those guys played for us,” Pierce said.

The league has since changed from the Kitty league to the Ohio

Valley Summer Collegiate League (OVL), which now has seven teams, all of which are from western Kentucky except for Dubois County, Indiana.

The OVCL is one of 35 similar leagues across the United States.

Pierce says there’s no shortage of talent. “Each college team has

between 35-50 players, and most of them want to play somewhere during the summer.” Many of those college athletes want to play closer to home, so the Oilers pick up players from Louisville, Evansville, Indianapolis, and places in between. But they have also picked up players from Canada, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Peurto Rico, California, and Florida.

FOR LOVE OF THE GAME

Unlike the Oilers of the 50s, today’s Oilers are not a professional

organization. These players do not get a salary.

And that is the very thing that gives the Oilers an edge, according

to Pierce. “The thing that makes amateur baseball so much fun is these guys really love to compete. They’re young. They’re still dreamers. They’re hoping to get noticed, so they play hard.”

For that reason, you can bet the Oilers will do their part to give

you a fun night. “The entertainment value of our games is great. Our product is good. If we do our job right on the field, it’s a fun game to watch. These kids work hard,” Pierce said, sounding like a proud papa.

In a wooden bat league, you will see everything there is to love

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

2016 oilers home game schedule:

about baseball: homeruns, double plays,

and board. Basically, that means a bedroom

stolen bases, and close plays at the plate.

to sleep in and a place to do laundry. An

extra bedroom or basement with a separate

Glen Snow says the schedule can be a

grind for the players. Away games mean they don’t get back in town until 1 or 2 a.m. “They may sleep till 11 a.m., grab lunch, and then they’re back at the field at 3 p.m. to

entrance is ideal. Retired empty nesters enjoy the extra company. But Snow says families with young kids also make great

either prepare the field for a home game or

host homes because the kids enjoy knowing

load the bus for an away game. So they really

the players and watching their games.

only have about three or four hours a day of

Host families are not responsible for

free time.”

transportation or expected to provide food

HOST FAMILIES NEEDED

Snow got involved with the Oilers when

he was asked by the Lions Club to serve as a host home. Since then, he’s been on a

for the players. Players are not expected to do extra chores or household responsibilities.

As a small “thank you,” host families get

free admission to all games.

mission to recruit more host home families

and help fill the stands with fans.

becoming a host family, or volunteering

at home games, contact Glen Snow at

Glen says The Snows enjoyed hosting

some players in the summer. “It’s a good

For more information about the Oilers,

LKVUbandb@aol.com.

environment for the players and the host families, too. The player’s family also has

Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner+West and

more peace of mind knowing their son is

a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent

living with a host family.”

Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two

very active boys, 6 and 8.

Host families are responsible for room

32 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

Monday, June 6 Tuesday, June 7 Wednesday, June 8 Saturday, June 11 Sunday, June 12 Thursday, June 16 Saturday, June 18 Monday, June 20 Tuesday, June 21 Wednesday, June 22 Sunday, June 26 Thursday, June 30 Saturday, July 2 Monday, July 4 Tuesday, July 5 Wednesday, July 6 Wednesday, July 13 Sunday, July 17 Tuesday, July 19 Thursday, July 21 Friday, July 22

kids free nights! The Oilers are planning several Kids FREE Nights this summer! Check out owensboroilers.com for details. Bring the kids out and enjoy a free night at the ballpark as a family. “We believe if families come, they’ll enjoy it and want to come back. - Charlie Pierce

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

CENTRE COURT WHAT: Summer program – will be divided into two sessions with each lasting four weeks. WHEN: Session 1 will start Monday, June 6 and run through Thursday, June 30. Session 2 will start Monday, July 11 and run through Thursday, August 4. WHAT: Quick Start Program - a new and exciting play format for learning tennis. It is designed to bring kids into the game by utilizing specialized equipment, shorter court dimensions and modified scoring--- all tailored to age and size. WHEN/AGE: Smashers: Ages 5-7 Mondays and Wednesdays 9-10 a.m. Hot Shots: Ages 8-10 Mondays and Wednesdays 10-11 a.m. COST: 1 day a week $60; 2 days a week $110 CONTACT: Jake Shoemake, 270-240-4213 WHAT: Junior Development - consists of middle school and high school clinics that focus on the basic foundation of strokes, movement, balance, strategy, and match play. WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 - 11 a.m. AGE: middle and high school age 34 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

COST: 1 day a week $130; 2 days a week $250 CONTACT: Jake Shoemake, 270-240-4213 WHAT: High Performance - designed for Middle School and High School players who are taking tennis to the next level such as varsity high school tennis and traveling and playing USTA tournaments. Movement, balance, strategy, and match play will be emphasized. WHEN: Monday-Thursday from 1 - 4 p.m. AGE: middle and high school age COST: 1 day a week $190; 2 days a week $340; 3 days a week $510; 4 days a week $680 CONTACT: Jake Shoemake, 270-240-4213

CLIFF HAGAN BOYS & GIRLS CLUB WHAT: The Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club Summer Program In order to sign your child up for our summer program, you can either come to the Mike Horn location or visit their website at www. cliffhaganboysandgirlsclub.org to fill out a membership card which will contain your and your child’s pertinent information. If you visit the website, you can print out the PDF version of the membership card and bring that in to the Mike Horn location once

completed. Upon completing the form, there is an annual $12 membership fee, so you are essentially paying $1 a month to be a member of the Boys & Girls Club. This fee will cover your child’s membership for an entire year. So, if they would like to attend our after-school program, that fee will cover that. WHEN: The summer program will begin on Tuesday, May 31st at the Mike Horn location located at 3415 Buckland Square, and on Tuesday, May 24th at the C. Martel Wightman Unit located at 2130 East 19th Street (Rolling Heights Housing Authority). The Mike Horn Unit will be open from 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. and the Wightman Unit will be open from 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. AGE: 6-18 COST: The summer program is the only time we charge a weekly fee which is $10/week per child. We provide a lunch and a snack for your child everyday during the summer program, and have organized activities, guest speakers, special events, and field trips taking place throughout the entire program. Contact Information: Ryan Bibb, Director of Operations can be reached at 270-685-4903.

www.OwensboroParent.com

summer guide DAVIESS COUNTY 4H COOPERATIVE EXTENSION WHAT: West Kentucky 4-H Camp in Dawson Springs, KY WHEN: June 6-9 AGE: 9-15 COST: $185 if paid in full by May 1, $195 after May 1 CONTACT: Daviess County Extension office at 270-685-8480 or visit their website: daviess.ca.uky.edu/4HYouthDevelopment

DAVIESS COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION WHAT: Take a Kid Fishing WHEN: June 4 at Panther Creek Park AGE: Fun for the whole family! WHAT: ROMP WHEN: June 22 – 25 at Yellow Creek Park AGE: Fun for the whole family! WHAT: Independence Bank Family Freedom Fireworks Festival WHEN: July 3 at 9:15 p.m. at Panther Creek Park AGE: Fun for the whole family! WHAT: Corvette Lovers Vette Club Car Show WHEN: July 23 at Yellow Creek Park AGE: Fun for the whole family!

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY WHAT: Enjoy Family Movie Matinee WHEN: every Saturday at 2 p.m. COST: This event is free! WHAT: Mother’s Day cards Drop-in Craft. Drop in anytime to create a Mother’s Day card to take home. WHEN: May 2-8 WHAT: Genre Bingo Scavenger Hunt. Help celebrate Children’s Book Week with a fun scavenger hunt. WHEN: May 2-8 WHAT: Beyond the Lines Coloring Club. Join us for a fun night! DJ Allen Rockhouse will be performing on the turn tables to offer a unique listening experience. There will also be light snacks and refreshments available. The library will provide the coloring sheets. All you need to bring is your coloring utensils! A free coloring book will be given away also! WHEN: May 12 @ 6 p.m. WHAT: Bilingual Storytime Join us for a new monthly bilingual storytime program, where children will get to hear stories and sing songs in both English and Spanish! ¡Únase a nosotros para un nuevo programa mensual donde los niños podrán escuchar cuentos y cantar canciones en inglés y español! WHEN: May 17 @ 6 p.m. WHAT: Sunset Cruise In Classic Car Show. Come and see some classic and hot-rod cars that belong to this club that has been together since 1998. WHEN: May 21 @ noon www.OwensboroParent.com

WHAT: Animal Tales. Animal Tales will feature live, exotic wildlife from all over the world that possess very unique abilities. Recommended for families. WHEN: June 1 @ 2 p.m. (Repeat @ 3 p.m.) WHAT: Kings Highway Bluegrass Band. Bring a lawn chair and a blanket and enjoy bluegrass music performed by Kings Highway in our Reading Garden. We will also have our Beyond the Lines Coloring Club meeting during the concert. WHEN: June 9 @ 6 p.m. WHAT: Stop Motion Animation Workshop. WHEN: June 11 @ noon WHAT: Launch of the Human Library. Call Lisa Maiden for more details. WHEN: June 11 @ 1 p.m. WHAT: Father’s Day Card Drop-in Craft. Drop in anytime to create a Father’s Day card to take home. WHEN: June 13-19 WHAT: HistoryMobile: Torn Within and Threatened Without - Scholarship meets the graphic novel. That describes “Torn Within and Threatened Without: Kentuckians in the Civil War,” the current exhibit in the Kentucky Historical Society’s HistoryMobile. The exhibit, which is an 80 foot cargo trailer, visually engages visitors. Artifacts allow them to touch the past and interactive components let them step into the historical figures’ shoes, choose what they would do if faced with the same situations and see the consequences of their choices. WHEN: June 16 @ 3 p.m. WHAT: Mr. Bond and the Science Guys. Handeye coordination experiments, lung capacity, Bernoulli’s principle, balancing miracles, sweet spot on rackets, aerodynamics and much more! Mr. Bond and his amazing team of Mad Scientists are ready to get you excited about science and sport! WHEN: June 29 @ 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. WHAT: Author event J. D. Wilkes Kentucky author J.D. Wilkes will be discussing his book Barn Dances & Jamborees Across Kentucky, and playing banjo tunes from his own repertoire. WHEN: June 29 @ 6 p.m. WHAT: Cupcake Wars - Decorate delicious cupcakes and compete to see who can create the most mouth-watering designs! WHEN: July 5 @ 1 p.m. AGE: Open to grades 6-12. CONTACT: Call 270-684-0211, ext. 3 to register. WHAT: Fancy Nancy Sand Party - Children welcome to dress up for a formal sand castle building party. WHEN: July 13 @ 2 p.m. & 3 p.m. AGE: 6-12 WHAT: Beyond the Lines Coloring Club - Join us for a fun night as Brandon Miles from All Around the Dinner Table performs live

music while you relax. The library will provide coloring pages and you will need to bring you own coloring utensils. We will also be having other activities available, such as community puzzles to work, a large community coloring sheet, UNO cards to play with, and several decks of normal playing cards. Light snacks and beverages will be provided. WHEN: July 14 @ 7 p.m. WHAT: Wump Mucket Puppets - Join us for songs, skits and silliness with master puppeteer Terrence Burke and his zany cast of puppet stars! WHEN: July 20 @ 2 p.m. & 3 p.m. WHAT: Kentucky Down Under - Kentucky Down Under will feature animals from the Australian Outback including a baby kangaroo, a woma python, and many more! WHEN: July 27 @ 2 p.m. & 3 p.m. AGE: Recommended for all ages. WHAT: Bi-Okoto - Bi-Okoto one of the most artistically accomplished and stable cultural institutes in the tri-state. The organization is highly regarded for its innovative repertory and programming both nationally and internationally. Currently, Bi-Okoto is touring the country performing “E Sin Mi d’Afrika,” which transports participants through the art of music, dance, song, and language. They show the true splendor and beauty of West African culture. WHEN: July 30 2016 @ 1 p.m.

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS WHAT: Little E-Gals Basketball Camp WHEN: June 6 – 9 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: Girls in 1st though 8th grades COST: $45 CONTACT: Coach Willis McClure at willis. mcclure@daviess.kyschools.us WHAT: DCHS Pantherette Dance Camp - Many levels of skills, technique, & choreography will be taught over the course of the 4 days. Snacks, drinks, bag lunches and (3) t-shirts will be provided to wear during camp. WHEN: June 13,14,15 & 16; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; DCHS Main Gym AGE: Middle School Ages COST: $100 CONTACT: Debbie.connor@daviess. kyschools.us WHAT: Choreography Workshop With SHANE SPARKS - “So You Think You Can Dance” judge and choreographer, Shane Sparks will be hosting a series of workshops. Intermediate and Advanced classes will be offered. This would be a great opportunity for your team to learn awesome chorography at an affordable price! WHEN: June 24th & 25th at Daviess County High School. COST: $25 early registry $40 at the door, spots are limited, register now! CONTACT: Debbie.connor@daviess. kyschools.us May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide WHAT: Daviess County High School Basketball Camp 2016 WHEN: June 6 – 8 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: For boys entering 3rd through 8th grades COST: $55 Per Camper - 2nd Child in same family (+ $35) - 3rd child from same family (+ $25) Contact Information: neil.hayden@daviess. kyschools.us WHAT: Daviess County Lady Panther Basketball Camp WHEN: July 11 – 14 from 9 – 11 a.m. AGE: Girls entering grades 2 – 8 COST: $50 CONTACT: natalie.payne@daviess.kyschools. us WHAT: Daviess County Football Youth Camp WHEN: June 13 – 15 from 8 – 11 a.m. AGE: Students entering 2nd grade to 8th grade COST: $30.00 (preregistered) or $40 (walkup) CONTACT: chris.renfrow@daviess.kyschools. us WHAT: Daviess County High School 2016 Youth Soccer Camp WHEN: August 1 – 5 from 8 – 10:30 a.m. at Deer Park Soccer Complex AGE: 4 – 12 COST $60 CONTACT: David Sandefur at 270-852-7300

EDGE ICE CENTER WHAT: Summer Day Camp WHEN: May 31 – August 9 from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. AGE: 5 – 13 COST: $30 registration fee; $80 whole week or $65 for 3 days or fewer REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 14 CONTACT: Owensboro Parks & Recreation, 270-687-8700 WHAT: Learn to Skate Lessons WHEN: Session 1 - Saturdays, June 4-25 AGE: 3 and up COST: $25 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 27 CONTACT: Owensboro Parks & Recreation, 270-687-8700 WHAT: Five Dollar Family Fun Days WHEN: Sunday Afternoons, June –July AGE: Fun for the whole family! Cost: $5 per family (maximum of 5 members per family) CONTACT: Owensboro Parks & Recreation, 270-687-8700

EXPERIENCE BLUEGRASS WHAT: Experience Bluegrass Day Camp for Kids – They will learn all about local legend, Bill Monroe, and how he started Bluegrass music as they tour the International Bluegrass Music Museum and see the different instruments played live. They will take what they learn and turn it into a song to record. Each child will get their very own copy of the 36 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

song on CD. Students will also learn chords on the Mandolin (instrument provided) to play and sing Blue Moon of Kentucky. They will also learn an old time square dance and create some musical art. Friday there will be a performance with all the students for family and friends. They will show off all their new skills! WHEN: ROMP Week, June 20-24 from 9 – 11:30 a.m. AGE: 8 to 12 COST: $75 per child and includes everything they need for the week and a camp t-shirt. CONTACT: www.experiencebluegrass.com

GIRLS INC. WHAT: Afterschool and Summer Program - Fieldtrips include swimming once a week, local parks, in and out of town trips. Programming includes media literacy, S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering, math), cooking, arts-n-crafts, economic literacy. WHEN: June 6 - August 5 at 2 locationsOwensboro Christian Church (2818 New Hartford Road) and Rolling Heights Campus (2130G E 19th Street) from 7:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. AGE: 6-18 COST: $30 registration fee and weekly fees depend on annual household income. Lunch and two snacks will be included. CONTACT: 270-684-7833 or via email girlsincoboro@bellsouth.net or stop by either location for registration forms.

H.L. NEBLETT COMMUNITY CENTER WHAT: Summer Camp WHEN: May 23 – start of school season AGE: children through the 12th year COST: Breakfast, lunch, snack and summer are included in the tuition. Activities range from special programs to field trips. Tuition ranges by age. Scholarship available. CONTACT: Carol Ware at 270-685-3197.

ITUMBLE & BOUNCE

dance, crafts, costuming, snacks, stage make up, water games and more. Special days include Bubbles, Bouncy and Water Games Tuesday, Royal Tea Party Wednesday, and Red Carpet Showcase Friday WHEN: July 11-15 and 18-22 from 9 a.m. noon AGE: 3-7 years old COST: $125 COST: $300 for all 5 weeks or $85 per week CONTACT: 2705 Breckenridge Street, johnsonsdance@gmail.com WHAT: Spa La La: participants will enjoy dance, crafts, costume design, stage make up, bouncy house, spa activities and snacks. Special days include Bubbles, Bouncy and Water Games Tuesday, Royal Tea Party Wednesday, Super Spa Day Thursday and Red Carpet Showcase Friday. WHEN: July 11-15 from 1 – 4 p.m. AGE: 7-10years old COST: $125 COST: $300 for all 5 weeks or $85 per week CONTACT: 2705 Breckenridge Street, johnsonsdance@gmail.com WHAT: New Rising Stars...Special Needs Dance Therapy Camp; the camp will feature dance, creative activities, stretching & strengthening, costume play, and a performance at the end of the week. WHEN: June 27 - July 1 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. AGE 6-18 years old COST: $100 COST: $300 for all 5 weeks or $85 per week CONTACT: 2705 Breckenridge Street, johnsonsdance@gmail.com WHAT: Competition Team Choreography Camp; learn exciting choreography in multiple genres including lyrical, contemporary and hip hop’ WHEN: June 20 – 22 from 1 – 3 p.m. AGE: 6-18 years old COST $85 COST: $300 for all 5 weeks or $85 per week CONTACT INFO: 2705 Breckenridge Street, johnsonsdance@gmail.com

WHAT: Power Tumbling and Trampoline Instruction - 6 week intensive recreational summer program geared toward meeting your child’s goals and providing a fun and safe learning environment. All classes will meet TWICE a week. WHEN: June 6 – July 25 AGE: 18 months old and up CONTACT: itumbleandbounce@gmail.com or 270-240-4800

WHAT: Competition Team Camp; learn the latest dance tricks as seen on “So You Think You Can Dance,” beginners to advanced classes WHEN: June 25 – 29 from 1 – 3 p.m. AGE: 6-18 COST: $85 COST: $300 for all 5 weeks or $85 per week CONTACT: 2705 Breckenridge Street, johnsonsdance@gmail.com

WHAT: Camps & Clinics WHEN: Camp I: June 20 – 23 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Camp II: July 11 – 14 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Clinic I: June 20 – 23 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Clinic II: July 11 – 14 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. CONTACT: itumbleandbounce@gmail.com or 270-240-4800

WHAT: Intensive Workshops with Contemporary Techniques - Master classes with a different professional guest artist from dance companies across the country each week; WHEN: June 20 - July 22 from 5 – 8 p.m. COST: $300 for all 5 weeks or $85 per week CONTACT: 2705 Breckenridge Street, johnsonsdance@gmail.com

JOHNSON DANCE STUDIO WHAT: Wiggle, Giggle and Pretend: A Disney Royal Celebration; participants will enjoy

KENTUCKY MAVERICKS WHAT: Monday Madness – Train with the www.OwensboroParent.com

Mavericks to increase your basketball knowledge, skills and performance. WHEN: Session 1: May 2, 9, 16, 23 Session 2: June 6, 13, 20, 27 Session 3: July 11, 18, 25, August 1 Session 4: August 8, 15, 22, 29 Session 5: September 12, 19, 26, October 3 AGE: 6 – 16 COST: Session (4 Mondays) $50; Individual Monday $15 CONTACT: 270-240-2705 or info@mavup.com WHAT: 3-Day Camp with the Kentucky Mavericks WHEN: Session 1: June 7 – 9 or Session 2: June 14 – 16 AGE: 6 – 16 COST: $150 CONTACT: 270-240-2705 or info@mavup.com

Class Schedule: Village (ages newborn to 18 months) Thursdays 9:30 a.m. Our Time (ages 18 months to 3) Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. Thursdays 10:30 a.m. Family Time (ages newborn to around 5) Wednesdays 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays 6 p.m. AGE: Classes for newborns to age 7. COST: $75 per family WHAT: Kindermusik Big Kids Camp - Drop off Camp featuring music, drama, and art; Light snack included. WHEN: August 1 - 5 from 10 a.m. - noon or 1 - 3 p.m. AGES: almost 5 to 8 COST: $120 per student CONTACT: Cathy Mullins cathy.mullins25@gmail.com 270-316-9203 www.kindermusik.com

KINDERMUSIK WHAT: Summer Camps Continue learning with your child all summer long at Kindermusik, where learning and play come together. WHEN: June 1-July 7 - Classes meet once weekly for five weeks at the Owensboro Symphony Academy, 211 East 2nd Street;

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LEWIS LANE BAPTIST CHURCH WHAT: Free Movie Night – popcorn, soda and door prizes WHEN: June 17 from 7 – 9 p.m. AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: Free! CONTACT: 270-684-4266

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WHAT: Free Back-To-School Bash - cookout, inflatables and door prizes WHEN: July 31 from 5:15 – 7 p.m. AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: Free! CONTACT: 270-684-4266

MALCO THEATER WHAT: Malco Kids Summer Film Fest WHEN: The Croods - June 7 & 8 The Peanuts Movie – June 14 & 15 Alvin and the Chipmunks The Road Chip – June 21 & 22 Home – June 28 & 29 Penguins – July 5 & 6 Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who! – July 12 & 13 Turbo – July 19 & 20 Night at the Museum Secret of the Tomb – July 26 & 27 10 a.m. every Tuesday and Wednesday in June and July; arrive early, seating is limited COST: $2 per person CONTACT: www.malco.com

MESKER PARK ZOO WHAT: 2016 Summer Camp WHEN: Full Day ZooTopia (Session 1) June 6-10 Why do some animals hang out with their friends? Being social has advantages! Discover the role of social behavior in finding food, staying safe, and raising a family. Build a prairie dog town or a beehive with your group… and on Friday, we’ll all “Paint the Zoo”! Animal Play (Session 2) June 13-17 FUN is important to young animals. Learn how animals play to learn and learn to play, and explore why we have developed close relationships with certain plants and animals. Younger campers will gain hands on animal care experience, while older campers will have the opportunity to train a Zoo animal. Parents are welcome to attend Friday’s Animal Extravaganza. Mission Green Possible (Session 3) June 20-24 Embrace a variety of green practices! We’ll create art through recycling and upcycling, conduct our own mini-composting, and experiment with wind, solar, water power. Transform your backyard into a great habitat by building bird feeders, bat houses and toad hideaways, and growing animalfriendly native plants. Dr. Zoo (Session 4) July 27-July 1 What do scientists study, and how do they do it? Use the tools and 38 OWENSBORO PARENT

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concepts of science to explore the natural world in the most exciting laboratory of all… the Zoo! Learn the science behind a variety of materials from ice cream to slime to bubbles. Communicate with secret messages, navigate through the Zoo with a compass, and follow “scat” clues to solve the riddles of animal behavior. Adventure Amazonia (Session 5) July 4-8 Discover the relationships between plants, animals and the environment on our week long rainforest adventure! Participate in conservation activities to protect the rainforest. Get an insider’s look at AMAZONIA and enjoy a feast of rainforest foods! The ZooKeeper’s Apprentice (Session 6) July 11-15 Join us for the ultimate insider’s look at how a zoo functions. Campers will create a “model zoo,” each designing their own animal exhibit, creating menus and signs, and making “toys” for the enrichment of their favorite Zoo animals! Parents are welcome to attend Friday afternoon’s open house. ZooTastic Journey (Session 7) July 18-22 Join us for a journey through earth’s strange and wonderful history. Dig up fossils and learn how to “read” skulls. Visit the “age of slime,” shiver through an ice age, and make your own dripstone cave. Meet some positively freaky critters from earth’s past, as well as the Zoo’s own living dinosaurs and real dragons. Our week long mission: to explore strange, not-so-new worlds… to boldly go where no camper has gone before! Spaceship Earth (Session 8) July 25-29 What makes our planet so special, and how is it like a spaceship? Develop a recipe for a healthy earth while participating in projects to save endangered ecosystems, plants and animals. Make an edible coral reef, watch plants breathe, and get tangled in a variety of food webs! Campers will end the week by presenting their own environmental pleas to Zoo visitors; parents are welcome to attend. Half Day Roots & Wings (Session A) June 6-10 Gain an appreciation for the many forms of plants and animals in the world and how they all depend on each other. You’ll enjoy a behind www.OwensboroParent.com

summer guide the scenes look at our rainforest exhibit, AMAZONIA, and a mini-feast of rainforest foods!

COST: $5 per class CONTACT: 270-688-8908

Zoo Party (Session B) June 13-17 Why do some animals hang out with their friends? Are animal families like human families? Learn how living in a group helps animals find food, keep safe and raise a family. On Friday, we’ll throw an Animal Pinata Party!

OWENSBORO CATHOLIC

Zoo Play (Session C) June 20-24 Taking care of animals is serious business… but fun and play are an important part of zoo life, too! Gain hands-on experience with all aspects of animal care, from feeding to providing toys. Parents can join us on Friday while campers introduce their favorite animals. Junior ZooKeeper (Session D) July 4-8 Join us for the ultimate insider’s look at how a zoo works. Create a “model zoo,” lend a hand at landscaping, and make toys for your favorite zoo animals to enjoy. Parents are invited to an open house on Friday to view the zoo their campers have created! Expedition Zoo (Session E) July 18-22 Spend a week examining our “living laboratory” here at the Zoo. Learn to use some of the tools scientists need for an up close and personal view of plants and animals. Experiment with blowing bubbles, creating clouds, conjuring slime… even making ice cream! Go Green! (Session F) July 25-29 What does it mean to “go green”? Experiment with compost, create recycled art, and harness wind and solar energy. We’ll take action to save local plants and animals by transforming your backyard into a great habitat! AGE: 5 -12 COST: Full-Day: 1st session $130/$150 (members/nonmembers); Additional sessions ($110/$130); Extended Care: $30 for am/pm or $50 for both Half-Day: $80/$90 (members/nonmembers) CONTACT: 812-435-6143 ext. 414 or education@meskerparkzoo.com

MUSICK STUDIOS WHAT: Dance Camp WHEN: July 11 – 15 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. with a Friday After 5 performance on July 15 AGE: 3rd grade and older COST: $75 for week CONTACT: 270-688-8908 WHAT: Work Hard, Dream Big WHEN: July 23 all day at the Owensboro Convention Center COST: Visit website for cost and more details CONTACT: 270-688-8908 WHAT: Musick Studios Open Classes WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays in June & July from 5-7 p.m www.OwensboroParent.com

WHAT: Owensboro Catholic Football Camp WHEN: June 23 – 24 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Steele Stadium Age: players entering 2nd through 8th grades COST: $40 per child; second child from family $20; third child $10; fourth and on is free CONTACT: John.edge@owensborocatholic. org

OWENSBORO CHRISTIAN CHURCH WHAT: SpringHill Day Camp WHEN: July 25-29 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. AGE: completed Kindergarten-4th grade COST: $179 CONTACT: Register at springhillcamps.com

OWENSBORO COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE WHAT: Summer Academy – Spend a week at Tomorrow’ Tech 2014 School of the Year and get hands-on instructions from awardwinning faculty. Make your own biodiesel, test and tune and ethanol-powered ’65 Cobra on a Mustang Dyno, assemble a propane system on two Toyota trucks, control a hybrid vehicle’s function through a laptop, tour the Toyota plan in Princeton, Indiana, attend a mini car show and learn about 100 highest paying jobs in Owensboro. WHEN: June 13 – 16 AGES: for boys and girls 14 - 18 COST: FREE! CONTACT: Christy Ellis, 270-86-4448 or christy.ellis@kctcs.edu WHAT: College Connections – a camp designed to get students college ready! Take the Compass test, improve specific academic areas, earn college credit, and meet with an advisor to schedule classes. WHEN: July 5 – August 5 (choose to attend either Mondays & Tuesdays or Tuesdays & Thursdays) AGE: High schools students COST: Free, lunch is provided CONTACT: Donna Butler at 270-686-4495 or donna.butler@kctcs.edu

OWENSBORO FARMERS’ MARKET WHAT: Kids Day Kick Off Fest at the Farmers’ Market - Come see multiple students from across Owensboro and Daviess County sing and perform various acts all morning. WHEN: May 28 from 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at 1205 Triplett Street AGE: Fun for the whole family COST: Free! CONTACT: owensbororegionalfarmersmarket.org WHAT: Taste of Farmers’ Market Fest WHEN: June 11 from 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at 1205 Triplett Street AGE: Fun for the whole family COST: Free!

CONTACT: owensbororegionalfarmersmarket.org WHAT: Family Farm Day at the Farmers’ Market WHEN: June 25 from 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at 1205 Triplett Street AGE: Fun for the whole family COST: Free! CONTACT: owensbororegionalfarmersmarket.org WHAT: Celebration of Local Food & Music WHEN: July 2 from 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at 1205 Triplett Street AGE: Fun for the whole family COST: Free! CONTACT: owensbororegionalfarmersmarket.org WHAT: Support your Local Charity Day WHEN: July 23 from 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at 1205 Triplett Street AGE: Fun for the whole family COST: Free! CONTACT: owensbororegionalfarmersmarket.org

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF FINE ART WHAT: OMFA Summer Art Camp II and III Sponsored by Owensboro Grain Co. The camp will celebrate the community’s public art program by creating monumental outdoor sculpture which will be displayed in OMFA’s Ryan Park, June to September. WHEN: June 7 – 10 and July 12 – 15 AGE: 6-15 COST: Free CONTACT: info@omfa.us or 270-685-3181

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY WHAT: Summer Feeding Program; Any child eighteen years old or younger, may eat a free lunch on Tuesdays – Fridays during the time period listed below. Meals must be eaten on site. Anyone that meets the age requirement can participate, regardless of where they live – out-of-state, etc. are eligible. WHEN: Begins at the Museum on Tuesday, May 31 and end Friday, July 29. Only between the hours of 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. AGE: Eighteen years or younger COST: Lunch is free. Patrons that need assistance with museum admission during the Summer Feeding Program may apply for a free Summer Pass at our reception desk. WHAT: Daily Cave Tours - Explore our Impact100 Cave and discover what life is like in a Kentucky cave! Learn about Kentucky’s cave geology and cave biology - you might even see a few surprises! WHEN: 2:00 p.m. every Tuesday - Friday AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: Included with price of admission or your museum membership WHAT: Public History Rudy Mine Coal Mine Tours - Put on a coal mine helmet and join us on a trip through the Rudy Coal Mine, an May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide historic Daviess County coal mine exhibit featuring the history of coal mining in western Kentucky in the 19th Century. Your tour will lead you through a typical day in the life of a Daviess County Rudy Mine Coal Miner in the 1930’s WHEN: 3 p.m. every Tuesday – Friday; 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: Included with price of admission or your museum membership WHAT: School’s Out Science Camps Kentucky Science Center and the Owensboro Museum of Science and History Camps are collaborating to host week long camps in Owensboro! All sessions are designed for students around unique topics to inform, engage and entertain budding scientists. These camps will expand S.T.E.M. education and programming and involve exhilarating educational experiences for children in in grades K-5 during the weeks of June 20-24 and July 11-15, 2016. For more information or to register, visit KyScienceCenter.org. WHEN/AGES: All sessions are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Drop-off: 8 – 9 a.m. Pick-up: 4 – 5 p.m. Week of June 20-24 GRADES K-1: MESSY SCIENCE Explosions, concoctions and glorious goo: science is more fun when it’s messy!! For ages 5-6 years old. GRADES 2-3: ADVENTURES IN GoldiBlox® ENGINEERING Time to empower our engineering skills! Day by day, we’ll journey with GoldieBlox® and learn strategies for mechanical engineering. Engineering concepts and real-world applications will be explored as we solve problems through critical thinking and design. For ages 7-9 years old. GRADES 4-5: BUSTING MYTHS You have heard them all, but do you really believe all those myths? Can you imagine breaking into a building with antacids? This is the camp to put those mind-boggling questions to the challenge and find out which myths are BUSTED! For ages 9-10 years old. Week of July 11-15 Grades K-1: Lego® Design Challenge Put your imagination to the test as you build, design and engineer using these favorite construction tools – LEGOS®! For ages 5-6 years old. GRADES 2-3: WeDo® ROBOTIC ZOO It’s the wild side of robotic engineering! Learn about animal adaptations and robotics! Design and build a robotic animal using WeDo® LEGO® Robotics. For ages 7-8 years old. GRADES 4-5: AMUSEMENT PARK PHYSICS Zooming coasters and whirling wheels, investigate the physics behind some science defying amusement park rides. For ages 9-10 years old. AGE: See below for each specific session COST: $175.00 per full week of camp WHAT: River Adventure! - Regional Storytelling artist Susan Fowler will weave a story through the ages of our Ohio River and the people that live on its banks, using drama, music, sign language and sketches! Visitors will learn about the amazing history and some 40 OWENSBORO PARENT

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of the current uses, along with natural history information about animals, the water cycle, etc. Stories become alive as participants become the characters, the landscape or a vocabulary word! WHEN: Thursday, June 2 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Suitable and enjoyed by all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Live Animal Show! A live animal encounter including a young Kangaroo, lambs, tortoises, rabbits, etc! WHEN: Wednesday, June 1 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Any age COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids Fit! Join Charles Pettigrew from Owensboro Health Park for a rockin’ good exercise session! Activities designed to help kids keep active and fit! Learn exercises, games that can be done at home! WHEN: Friday, June 3 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for toddler through eighteen years of age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Summer Science Workshop: Infectious Disease & the Zombie Apocalypse - The first of our SUMMER SCIENCE WORKSHOP 2016 Series, this 2 hour minicamp will take students through the science of an outbreak using lab experiments, games and other exciting activities! All sessions will be conducted by Dr. Natalie Mountjoy’s high school students at the Life Science Academy Community Campus program. WHEN: Friday, June 3 from 1 – 3 p.m. AGE: Best for ages 8 through 12 COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Summer Science Workshop: Brain Dissection - The second of our SUMMER SCIENCE WORKSHOP 2016 Series. Ever wonder what’s inside your head? How your brain works and processes signals from your body? Let’s explore together! (includes dissection) All sessions will be conducted by Dr. Natalie Mountjoy’s high school students at the Life Science Academy Community Campus program. WHEN: Saturday, June 4 from 1 – 3 p.m. AGE: Best for ages 8 through 12 COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids in the Kitchen - Join us as Junior League of Owensboro’s KIDS IN THE KITCHEN PROGRAM explores great ways to introduce healthier and nutritious eating into our everyday lives! The June 7th program will include making “SUMMER SNAIL” SNACKS! WHEN: Tuesday, June 7 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Summer Science Workshop: Home Made Science Projects!The third of our SUMMER SCIENCE WORKSHOP 2016 Series.

All sessions will be conducted by Dr. Natalie Mountjoy’s high school students at the Life Science Academy Community Campus program. WHEN: Friday, June 10 from 1 – 3 p.m. AGE: Best for ages 8 through 12 COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Summer Science Workshop: Lung Experiments! The fourth of our SUMMER SCIENCE WORKSHOP 2016 Series. All sessions will be conducted by Dr. Natalie Mountjoy’s high school students at the Life Science Academy Community Campus program. WHEN: Saturday, June 11 from 1 – 3 p.m. AGE: Best for ages 8 through 12 COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Chemistry of Light - Join OCTC’s Don Mundell as he explores the world of bioluminescence! When: Wednesday, June 15 @ 11 a.m. AGE: All ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids Fit! Join Charles Pettigrew from Owensboro Health Park for a rockin’ good exercise session! Activities designed to help kids keep active and fit! Learn exercises, games that can be done at home! WHEN: Friday, June 17 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for toddler through eighteen years of age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Join us as Junior League of Owensboro’s KIDS IN THE KITCHEN PROGRAM explores great ways to introduce healthier and nutritious eating into our everyday lives! The June 21st program will feature “Cool off with Watermelon Sorbet!” WHEN: Tuesday, June 21 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Birds! - Explore the world of birds with the Daviess County Audubon Society! WHEN: Thursday, June 23 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for any age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Celebrate National Mud Pie Day! Explore the amazing world of soil with the Daviess County Extension Service! WHEN: Wednesday, June 29 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for any age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids Fit! Join Charles Pettigrew from Owensboro Health Park for a rockin’ good exercise session! Activities designed to help kids keep active and fit! Learn exercises, games that can be done at home! WHEN: Friday, June 17 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for toddler through eighteen years www.OwensboroParent.com

of age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids in the Kitchen - Join us for a week of patriotic celebration as Junior League of Owensboro’s Kids In The Kitchen Program explores great ways to introduce healthier and nutritious eating into our everyday lives! The July 5th program will feature “Fruit rockets to celebrate.” WHEN: Tuesday, July 5 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Patriotic Art with Rex! - Join us as we continue a week of patriotic celebration! Join Artist Rex Robinson and make your own patriotic master, piece using recyclable materials! WHEN: Wednesday, July 6 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Celebrate with an Eagle! - Join us as we welcome the educators from the Indiana Raptor Center of Brown County, as they present some amazing live raptors – include a Bald Eagle and Owls! WHEN: Thursday, July 7 @ 2 p.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership

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WHAT: Make n/ Take a Patriotic Craft - Join Mary Higginbotham from the Daviess County Extension Office, as she leads a patriotic “Make n’ Take” session! WHEN: Friday, July 8 @ 10:30 a.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids Fit! Join Charles Pettigrew from Owensboro Health Park for a rockin’ good exercise session! Activities designed to help kids keep active and fit! Learn exercises, games that can be done at home! WHEN: Friday, July 15 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Good for toddler through eighteen years of age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Kids in the Kitchen - Join us for a week of patriotic celebration as Junior League of Owensboro’s Kids In The Kitchen Program explores great ways to introduce healthier and nutritious eating into our everyday lives! The July 19th program will feature “Test Your Tastebuds,” as everyone tries out different veggie chips! WHEN: Tuesday, July 19 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. AGE: Good for all ages COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Birds! - Explore the world of birds with the Daviess County Audubon Society! WHEN: Thursday, July 21 @ 11 a.m.

AGE: Good for any age! COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership WHAT: Animal Surprise! A live animal encounter with some surprises! WHEN: Thursday, July 28 @ 11 a.m. AGE: Any age COST: Included with price of admission or museum membership CONTACT: Kathy Olson or Debbie Stites; 270-687-2732

OWENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION WHAT: Summer Day Camp – an unforgettable experience full of fun, friendship, wonder and excitement! WHEN: May 23 – August 5 from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. AGE: 5 – 13 COST $30 registration fee; $75 whole week or $65 3 days or fewer REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 6 CONTACT: 270-687-8700 WHAT: Parent Tot Open Swim WHEN: Saturdays, June 11-August 6 from 10 a.m. - Noon at Combest Pool AGE: 6 months - 2 years COST: $3 per session CONTACT: 270-687-8700 WHAT: Learn to Swim WHEN: June 13-17 (registration deadline June 3) and June 27 – July 1 (registration deadline

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summer guide June 17) at Combest Pool AGE: 5 and Above COST: $45 CONTACT: 270-687-8700

OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

WHAT: Pre-School Aquatics WHEN: June 13-17 (registration deadline (June 3) and June 27-July 1 (registration deadline June 17) at Combest Pool AGE: 3-4 year olds COST: $40 CONTACT: 270-687-8700

WHAT: Summer Institute for Young Adults – focusing on band, orchestra, choir, drama, dance and visual art. WHEN: May 31 – June 10 from 8:45 a.m. – 3 p.m. AGE: Students entering 5th – 10th grades COST: $150, scholarships available; registration and deposit deadline is May 16 CONTACT: Tom Stites, 270-686-1000 ext 2404

WHAT: Aquasize WHEN: Fridays & Saturdays June 10-25 from 11 a.m. - noon at Combest Pool AGES: 16 and up COST: $38 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 27 CONTACT: 270-687-8700

WHAT: OHS Football Camp WHEN: June 6 – 9 at Rash Stadium from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: 7-14 COST: $30 before June 1; $35 after June 1 CONTACT: jayson.fallin@owensboro. kyschools.us

WHAT: Family Day at the Golf Course WHEN: Sundays, April-October at Ben Hawes Par 3 Course AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: $10 per parent & child plays FREE CONTACT: 270-687-8700

WHAT: OHS Boys Basketball Camp WHEN: June 13-16 at OHS big gym from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. AGE: K – High School COST: $40 Contact Information: roderick.drake@ owensboro.kyschools.us

WHAT: Junior Golf Camp WHEN: June 6-10 from 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. or 10:15 - 11:30 a.m. at Hillcrest Golf Course Age: 6 - 11 year olds COST: $40 includes range balls, gifts & prizes REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 27 CONTACT: 270-687-8700

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WHAT: OHS Girls Basketball Camp WHEN: June 6-9 at OHS big gym from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: 3rd – 8th grades COST: $40 CONTACT: andy.groves@owensboro. kyschools.us

WHAT: Baseball Camp WHEN: July 11-13 at Shifley Park from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: 8-12 COST: $25 CONTACT: logan.johnson2@owensboro. kyschools.us WHAT: OHS Cheer Camp WHEN: July 18-21 at OHS from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: Pre K – 5th grades COST: $40 or $10 per day CONTACT: heather.cavitt@owensboro. kyschools.us

REID’S ORCHARD WHAT: Reidland Play Area - Horse, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Apple Express Rides, Berry Bouncer, Gemstone Mining WHEN: May 21-June 5th (weekends only) AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: range $2-$13

RIVERPARK CENTER WHAT: The Frog Prince w/ Missoula Children’s Theatre - The RiverPark Center and Missoula Children’s Theatre invite your child to participate in an unforgettable summer theater experience. In one week, your child will take classes in acting, movement, stagecraft makeup, and participate as actors, singers, dancers, stagehands and assistant directors in an original large-cast musical. A lonely Frog retrieves a golden ball for a

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Princess in exchange for friendship and comfort. She doesn’t want to live up to her part of the bargain and trouble begins. Don’t hop to conclusions during this fairy tale with a twist. WHEN: June 20 – 24 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., with an optional aftercare program that runs until 5 p.m. each day AGE: Open for anyone in 1st-12th grades (As of the 16-17 school year) COST: $200 for the week, which includes lunch and snack each day, as well as any supplies needed for the week. Aftercare is an additional $10 per day, but can be used as needed. No deadline, but space is limited! WHAT: Vivid Visual Art w/ Rex Halterman - Unleash your child’s imagination this summer! Art camp provides children a wonderful introduction to several forms of visual art. From painting to collages, photography to print and everything in between, this visual arts week will give kids an opportunity to explore a new area of art each day. Projects will vary from induvial pieces to large scale group work that will be installed and displayed at RiverPark Center. Campers will be able to take home all of their artwork, and all supplies will be provided. WHEN: June 27 - July 1, with an optional aftercare program that runs until 5 p.m. each day AGE: Open for anyone in 2nd-8th grades (As of the 16-17 school year) COST: $200 for the week, which includes lunch and snack each day, as well as any supplies needed for the week. Aftercare is

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an additional $10 per day, but can be used as needed. No deadline, but space is limited! WHAT: Goldirox and the Musical Chairs w/ Compass Creative Dramatics - We’re really excited about our new script – but we need some help from you. Our script is still under construction and we want you to help us make it the best it can be by being the first kids to try out our new scenes, songs, and dances! Chaos reigns as international rock sensation Goldirox and the Musical Chairs check in for a stay at the Bear Hotel and Suites. Searching for a room that’s “just right,” they wreak havoc on the hotel, leaving debris and discord as they fly from suite to suite. The hotel clerks and housekeepers scramble to meet Goldirox’s demands and to avoid the ever-present paparazzi determined to dig up a scandal. WHEN: July 11 – 15, with an optional aftercare program that runs until 5 p.m. each day AGE: Open for anyone in 1st-12th grades (As of the 16-17 school year) COST: $200 for the week, which includes lunch and snack each day, as well as any supplies needed for the week. Aftercare is an additional $10 per day, but can be used as needed. No deadline, but space is limited! WHAT: Magnificent Magic w/ Marty Ransford - Abracadabra, alakazam! Learn the secrets of magic and astound your friends! Easy to find, everyday items will become objects of wonder and mystery. Each day, campers will be instructed on how to perform, and master, tricks both big and small. Campers

will take home all the supplies they need to demonstrate their newfound skills, as well as an informational packet detailing all of the instructions and tips for each trick. But remember, a magician NEVER reveals their secrets! WHEN: July 18 - 22, with an optional aftercare program that runs until 5 p.m. each day Age: Open for anyone in 2nd-8th grades (As of the 16-17 school year) COST: $200 for the week, which includes lunch and snack each day, as well as any supplies needed for the week. Aftercare is an additional $10 per day, but can be used as needed. No deadline, but space is limited! Theatre Workshop of Owensboro WHAT: Summer Drama Camp WHEN/AGE: June 13 – 17 from 10 - 11 a.m. for grades K – 2; 12 – 2 p.m. for grades 3 – 5 July 5 – 8 from - 11 a.m. for grades K – 2; 12 – 2 p.m. for grades 3 – 6 Cost: $75 for grades K-2 and $100 for grades 3-6 CONTACT: 270-683-5003 WHAT: Advance Plus – Musical Theater WHEN: July 25 – 29 from 12 – 3 p.m. AGE: 5-9 COST: $125 CONTACT: 270-683-5003

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide TRUNNELL’S FAMILY FUN ACRE AND FARM MARKET WHAT: Festival of Flowers - A weekend of flowers and fun. Trunnell’s will be blooming with color during this Festival. This festival will excite the entire family! Our guests can watch and learn about planting beautiful containers of flowers or how to start a backyard garden. Kids can make a decorative pot to take home, create their own grass head to take home and watch grow, play in the Family Fun Acre, ride on the Pedal Tractors, bounce on the Bouncy Balls, meet baby animals at the Animal Barnyard, master the Rope and Tile Maze, have their face painted, and more. Families will have a blast mining for gems, fossils, and arrowheads in the Mining Sluice Adventure. “Absolutely Farmtastic Fun!” WHEN: Saturday, May 7th from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: $7/child (includes Family Fun Acre, Animal Barnyard, Create a Grasshead or Paint a Pot, and more) FREE admission for adults and children 12 months and under All gardening demonstration classes are FREE! Contact Information: (270) 733-2222

TWO RIVERS BUDDY BALL WHAT: TRBB Baseball WHEN: Monday nights in June and July at 5:30 p.m. on Apollo High School’s softball field AGE: 5 – 20 with special needs COST: Free

44 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

CONTACT: buddyballkids@gmail.com

WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN WHAT: First Saturday: Flower Power WHEN: Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. AGE: 5 – 11 COST: Members are always Free; Adults: $5; Seniors: $3; Students & Youths: $1 CONTACT: 270-852-8925 WHAT: Mum’s Day @ The Garden - A Mother’s Day Dining Treat: Join us for great food and beautiful flowers...Designed by Jeanie Bosley and the Mum’s Day Chefs. Includes an Unveiling of Owensboro High School Fine Arts Students’ Hand Painted Pathway Stones, with Emily A. Plummer, Visual Arts teacher. WHEN: Sunday, May 8 from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. COST $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers CONTACT: 270-852-8925 WHAT: Dazzling Daylilies Festival Each day will hold something new, leading up to the big event with Balloons Over the Garden! WHEN: June 20 – June 25 AGE: Fun for the whole family! COST: $3 daily CONTACT: 270-852-8925

YMCA WHAT: YMCA Summer Day Camp

WHEN: May 31- August 5; Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. AGE: 4-12 COST: Partial Week - $47(3 days or less) Full week - $67 (4 or 5 days) CONTACT: Tim Konken Tim@ OwensboroYMCA.org 270-663-8203 WHAT: Group Swim Lessons WHEN: June 6-July 28; Monday-Thursday (each session is two weeks - 8 visits) pick from the following times: 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. AGE: 3 Years- 18 year COST: $30 for members; $60 for nonmembers CONTACT: Robert Coulter Robert@ OwensboroYMCA.org 270-663-8209 WHAT: Parent Tot Swim Lessons WHEN: June 4-June 25 and July 2-July 30 AGE: 6 weeks- 36 months COST: $20 for members; -$25 for nonmembers CONTACT: Robert Coulter Robert@ OwensboroYMCA.org 270-663-8209 WHAT: Youth Strength And ConditioningSports Specific Training WHEN: Month by Month AGE: 8-12 COST: Members- $40 Non-members- $60 CONTACT: Shannon Grayson Shannon@ OwensboroYMCA.org 270-663-8215 OP

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide

owensboro parent

kids triathlon { by: chad hart }

s we put together the calendar of events each month, 5 TIPS TO HELP YOUR LITTLE SWIMMER we see lots of races and triathlons, but not many are We all grew up riding bikes and running around, intended for kids. Robert Williams, with Owensboro however, swimming doesn’t always come so natural for Parent, attended a kids triathlon in Hilton Head, South everyone. Whether your child is wearing floaties or is an Carolina, left inspired, and wanted to bring a similar experienced swimmer, this race is for them. If you want event to Owensboro. Well, Owensboro Parent Magazine, some ideas to help your child prepare, here are 5 tips for the Owensboro Family YMCA, and Indpendence Bank are kids and parents to ensure they are on the right track to teaming up to bring just that… a Kids Triathlon right here participating in our event and becoming healthier! in Owensboro! • Make swim lessons a priority. Not only is it crucial There is a strong need in the community for family for drowning prevention, but it is a healthy, full-body healthy activities. What better way to be active than work out! involving the entire family in triathlon training?! • Don’t be nervous! Everyone has been hesitant about Swimming, biking and running are three activities that we participating in the water portion of a triathlon. No all grew up participating in, and we want to bring back one will be judging, but everyone will be encouraging! the fun! Whether this is your child’s first triathlon or 20th • Practice, practice, practice. Swimming is a sport/ triathlon they will have a great experience of competing or activity that takes time to learn and become good at. just being healthy. Just keep trying! Enjoy music, food, shirts and medals for all participants. • Moms, Dads, Guardians - Treat this as a family This race will NOT be chip timed, but will have a running activity. Remember, we do not want our children to clock so participants know their time. Race routes will be get the perception that exercise has to be so structured uploaded in the coming days. and monotonous.

EXCITED YET? HERE ARE THE DETAILS OF THE EVENT: • • • •

Race Date: July 16th Race Location: Owensboro Family YMCA Age Groups: 4-6 years, 7-10 years, 11-14 years. Registration: Visit the YMCA website for registration. Early Registration through 11:59 p.m., June 30 - $15 Late Registration July 1 - July 12 until 11:59 p.m. - $20 Race Day Registration 7 - 7:30 a.m. - $20 • If there is a need to cancel due to inclement weather, we will reschedule for July 23rd. Same times and rates apply. 46 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

• Encourage family group activities. On Saturday morning, have everyone put down the electronics and hit the Green Belt, Smothers Park, or your local health club. The YMCA will host a swim clinic and bike safety course on May 21 from 10 - 11 a.m. This is the perfect way to ease tension for the child and parent as they prepare for the triathlon. Participants may RSVP to Chad@OwensboroYMCA.org.

Chad is the Senior Program Director of the Owensboro Family YMCA. He and his wife, Kristen, have 1 daughter, Everly.

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide

snackstrong { by: mary higginbotham }

etter Bites is a community wide initiative/program that focuses on bringing healthier options to the places in Owensboro/Daviess County where community members convene: recreational facilities, sports events, after school programs, school concessions, camps, churches and restaurants. Better Bites makes the healthy choice an EASY & FUN choice for families and children in our community. All Better Bites items meet USDA nutritional guidelines and align with current public school food service guidelines. The program and eye catching logo brings a consistent message and brand to healthy, fun choices to promote healthy eating and lifestyles for everyone no matter what age!

•

If you are interested in learning more about the Snack Strong/Better Bites program please contact us! The Better Bites Committee is here to provide support, training, and more to you or your organization. Support Healthy Choices for a Healthy Community!

Why is this important? •

A few examples of Better Bites snacks includes: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Fresh fruit Veggies & low fat ranch or hummus Grilled chicken sandwich with a whole wheat bun Tostitos Oven Baked Scoops Whole Grain Cheez-it Crackers Bottled water & Gatorade G2 100% fruit juice or 100% fruit popsicles Cheese quesadilla (made with whole grain tortilla) & salsa Chocolate covered banana dippers Fresh fruit smoothies (made with fruit and yogurt) Yoplait Simply Gogurt String Cheese

You can look for the Better Bites logo in our community beginning this summer! • • •

Community Pools (Combest Pool and Cravens Pool) Sports Complexes Parks & Recreation Concession Stands (Fisher Park)

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. May // June 2016

Community Organizations & Facilities

• • •

Because Kentucky has the 3rd highest rate of childhood obesity in the United States. Sugar-sweetened beverages and unhealthy snacks contribute significantly to the obesity epidemic. Children are developing diet related adult diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Small changes matter. 100 extra calories a day can add up to 10 pounds of weight gain a year. Because children learn what they live. Role modeling is one of the most effective things adults can do. Improve access to healthy food. Kids deserve healthy food options. If it’s available, they’ll eat it.

For more information contact Mary Higginbotham, County Extension Agent for Family & Consumer Sciences / Obesity Action Team Chair at Mary.higginbotham@uky.edu or (270) 685-8480. Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service, 4800A New Hartford Road. OP

Snack Strong/Better Bites program is an initiative of the Healthy Horizons (Owensboro/Daviess County Health Coalition) and Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service along with numerous community partners! Mary is the County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences. Mary and her husband Dayne have two children, Parker and Tate.

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide

exploration

station { by: ashley sorce }

his month the school year will come to a close,

along with being a dynamic resource for students

sending teachers and students home for the

seeking to continue the education cycle beyond the

summer. Children waiting at their bus stops will be

school year.

replaced with children playing in their yards, soaking in summer fun. And without those children at the stops, big yellow busses will take a break from their busy routes. But you may still see one bus, one very special bus, still traveling the streets of Daviess County.

The Foundation for Daviess County Public

Schools Board of Directors and Specialty Foods Group

Projects for which the bus may be utilized are limitless. A sample of the intended uses include: • Summer literacy, math, science and physical education

programs

neighborhoods

with

historically high ‘summer slide’

partnered to renovate a bus donated by Daviess County

• Traveling after-school tutoring center

Public Schools. Designed to offer students and the

• Collection center for books, school supplies, coats

community an “educational center on wheels,” this project, entitled Exploration Station, will be used to support numerous school and community activities

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. May // June 2016

and toy drives during the year • Educational Celebration Space for school and community functions

www.OwensboroParent.com

“Exploration Station and its future impact on

said. “It also can help with summer slide, as research

DCPS students is one of the most exciting projects

shows students who have summer experiences in

we have had the privilege of constructing,” said Vicki

learning are less likely to experience as large of a

Quisenberry, Executive Director of the Foundation

summer loss of previous learning. We believe it will

for Daviess County Public Schools. “The generosity

be very inviting and keep an excitement for learning

of SFG and their desire to enhance educational

even when school is not in session.”

opportunities for students are to be commended.

This ambitious project shows impressive creativity

enhancements in geographic areas that have students

that will significantly impact student learning.

who historically face academic challenges. While the

Exploration Station demonstrates what can be done

travel schedule is still tentative, the bus will hit the

when our community businesses have a passion for

road this summer, equipped for a season of learning.

Exploration Station will provide educational

enhancing a love of education in our children and, together, we can continue to promote a community

The bus will include:

penchant for private support of public education.”

• Internet café with WiFi

• Laptop

Quisenberry says one of the most exciting

computers,

iPads,

and/or

Google

purposes of this bus is to combat summer slide, the

Chromebooks

tendency for students to lose some of the achievement

• Printer station

gains they made during the previous school year.

• Literacy, science and/or craft/activity stations

Sorgho Elementary Principal Laura Cecil agrees. “The

• Canopied activity center outside the bus

Exploration Station brings learning to our students,

• Give-Away books and other reading materials to

thus taking away a barrier of transportation,” Cecil

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improve literacy

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

While the bus is near completion for a summer

partnering with The Foundation for DCPS an easy

rollout, The Foundation is still asking for community

decision for Specialty Food Groups. “We are proud

support. Exploration Station will have a Launch

to be a title sponsor of this project as it will serve as a

Party and Book Drive at the May 20 Friday After 5.

vital platform in the drive for educational excellence.

The community is asked to bring books for any ages

As a long standing member of the Daviess County

(preschool to 18). These books will be distributed in

community, we are proud to engage with and enrich our

local neighborhoods this summer through Exploration

neighbors’ lives through these types of endeavors,” said

Station. It is the hope of both The Foundation and area

Ric Herrera, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for

elementary school principals to collect needed materials

Specialty Foods Group.

at each Friday After 5, which will then be distributed to

local children through Exploration Station.

providing a year-round education in a fun, exciting

Meadow Lands Principal Kevin Lowe says, “The

environment. Said Superintendent Owens Saylor about

Exploration Station is a win-win for the community of

the opportunity, “The Exploration Station bus perfectly

Meadow Lands in that the books donated to the station

illustrates that the Foundation for DCPS and our

can also be checked out and read by other students and

community partners are willing to ‘go the extra mile’ to

families. The community also benefits in knowing the

reach kids with quality education resources.”

This community partnership is truly one-of-a-kind,

students learn no matter where they are, including in a bus or in a school house.”

It is this atmosphere of learning that made

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. May // June 2016

Ashley is mom to Avery, almost 5, and Reed, just turned 1, a small business owner, and editor of Owensboro Parent, the best magazine around.

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

summer guide

oh the places

you will go

2016 summer staycation ideas { by: melody ann wallace }

any of us will take a family vacation this summer. Some will put on their Mickey Mouse ears and head off to Disney World, while others pack up their bathing suits and towels and are beach or Caribbean bound. Others of us may be cost-conscious and choose to stay closer to home. Regardless of your particular situation, it does not change the fact that there are ten weeks to fill and energetic children to entertain. Here are several options to occupy all ages and all budgets this summer.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLPARK For families who love the ballpark experience, but not the expense or the travel, there are several nearby options. Your family could check out the Owensboro Oilers, a collegiate league that plays at Chautauqua Park. You can find an in-depth story on the Owensboro Oilers in this issue of OP! The Evansville Otters, the longest current members of the Independent Frontier League, kick off their season the first week in May. With ticket prices for ages five and up starting at just $6, and reasonable concessions, cheering on the Otters

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. May // June 2016

makes for a great evening of family fun. The Bowling Green Hot Rods, a Tampa Bay Ray Class A team, offer free kids meals on Sundays, as well as many other themed nights. While the Louisville Bats, AAA affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, boast such promotions as kids eat free, run the bases, and dollar hot dogs and sodas. These two teams offer all of the thrills of April through September baseball like most major league teams, but at a much lower cost. Who knows, you might just catch a glimpse of an up and coming or recovering major leaguer while you’re there. When you are done at the ballpark, or if you are just craving more of the history of the game, the Louisville Slugger Museum is an excellent place for the entire family. Home of the World’s Largest Baseball Bat, and currently, the Ripley’s Believe It or Not exhibit, the museum offers some great photo opportunities as well. Children can pose with Captain America and Iron Man made out of auto parts, or a replica of Yankee Stadium made from toothpicks. Those participating in the museum tour will receive a miniature replica bat at the tour’s conclusion. Another popular spot

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not to be missed while in Louisville is the Kentucky Derby Museum. Your little jockey can dress the part and design his or her own racing gear, before taking a tour of the famed Churchill Downs racetrack. Tip: While you are there, stop down the street for a bite to eat at Wagner’s Pharmacy Restaurant, which earned its claim to fame in the movie Secretariat.

FEELIN’ HOT, HOT, HOT There are several nearby options to make the most of the heat and enjoy some sun and water fun with no cost at all. Smothers Park, Panther Creek Park, and Audubon Mill Park on the Ohio riverfront in Henderson, all offer free water spray parks along with playground and picnic areas. All three parks make for a fun and relaxing setting for playtime and a picnic lunch. Tip: Turn your park adventure into an opportunity to teach acts of kindness. Purchase small inexpensive toys that your children can hide in the sand for others to discover, or create kind messages and cheerful drawings with sidewalk chalk. If you are craving an all-day venture, Holiday World, in nearby Santa Claus, Indiana, offers the waterpark experience, along with all of the amenities of an amusement park. To extend your getaway and save a little bit of money, there is always the option of purchasing a two-day pass to the park and pitching a tent or renting a cabin at Lake Rudolph. Tip: Holiday World offers discounts to those who purchase season passes, purchase tickets online, and are first responders, veterans, or military members. Big Splash Adventure in French Lick, Indiana is another option for an all-day or overnight venture. While you can purchase a package that includes your hotel stay and waterpark visit, Big Splash also offers large discounts during the month of May, as well as a limited number of daytime passes. Don’t forget, Venture River in Eddyville and Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville as two other nearby options for keeping cool during the summer months. Tip: Keep a beach bag in the trunk stocked with bug spray, sunscreen, towels, and spare clothes or bathing suits, just in case an opportunity for water play arises.

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Mesker Park Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Evansville is a short drive to entertain your little animals. Both the Mesker Park Zoo and Louisville Zoo offer playgrounds and petting zoos for the little ones. The Louisville Zoo also features Papa John’s Splash Park, free admission for parents on Mother’s www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

and Father’s Days, as well as twilight hours Thursday thru

sites like RoadsideAmerica.com, you can type in the state

Saturday throughout June and July. If you find yourself

that you are visiting and automatically pull up a list of the

further down the road, admission is always free to the Saint

local well known sites to visit for fun photo opportunities.

Louis Zoo; there is just an additional cost for parking and any

(The large burgoo pot outside of Moonlite BBQ made the

other attractions.

Owensboro list). Plan out a day of selfie stops or Instagram

shots and create a unique family album of photo fun.

If you prefer to seek out your own wildlife, pack the

bug spray and fill up a few water bottles full of “bug juice,”

and go exploring. Rudy Mines, John James Audubon Park in

app for that. Apps like TV Food Maps allow you to seek out

Henderson, and Garden of the Gods in Evansville all offer

the locations of your favorite popular diners and restaurants

a variety of different trails for hikers of all ages and sizes.

seen on Food Network shows. If you are already in store for a

For those who really want to experience the outdoors without

long trip, Along the Way is an app designed to locate parks,

going very far, Diamond Lakes offers campsite, cottage, and hotel room options for short or long adventures. They

Want to eat your way through the summer? There’s an

attractions, and restaurants as you travel.

also have plenty of activities for the whole family, including fishing, swimming, and go-kart riding.

THE LAND DOWN UNDER

Another cool option for hot summer days is to go

underground. There are several caves and caverns to explore that are less than a two-hour drive from Owensboro. Southern Indiana is home to both Marengo Cave and Squire Boone Caverns. The caverns, now nestled amongst an authentic log cabin village and working grist mill, were discovered by Daniel Boone and his brother Squire over two hundred years ago. Visitors can enjoy the indoor and outdoor falls, as well as go zip-lining for a little added adventure. Lost River Cave in Bowling Green proudly boasts “Kentucky’s only underground boat tour,” while Mammoth Cave houses “the world’s longest known cave system.” Each of these caves, and their surrounding towns, are well worth exploring.

Tip: Don’t forget your jacket! Cave temperatures average

in the mid-fifties.

ROADSIDE STOPS AND PHOTO OPS

All you need is your family and your cell phone. With

56 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

CLOSE TO HOME

If you don’t want to venture much further than your

own backyard, there are plenty of options in and around Owensboro. For indoor fun, Malco cinemas will host their Summer Film Fest on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m. (See the OP Summer Activity Guide for a list of movies), while the Daviess County Public Library offers family movie matinees every Saturday at 2 p.m.. The Owensboro Museum of Fine Arts and the Owensboro Museum of Science and History are both hosting traveling exhibits and offering hands-on summer experiences. After much anticipation, Friday After Five kicks off on May 20 with Andy Brasher, the Kroger Street Fair, the Exploration Station Bus, and DCPL Storybook characters. Later this summer, don’t miss the return of the hot air balloons to the Dazzling Daylilies Festival June 24 through 26.

Whatever you do this summer, keep cool and enjoy the

ones you share it with.

Melody Ann Wallace is a 6th grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School who finds new blessings each day in her roles as teacher, wife, mom, and stepmom.

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

discover { paid advertorial }

carseat

safety

{ by: dr. john phillips } o n e h e a l t h m e d i c a l g ro u p

here are no shortcuts to safety when you’re on the

American Academy of Pediatrics, motor vehicle crashes are

road with your children.

the leading cause of death for children above the age of 4.

As a pediatrician and a parent myself, I find it’s

In 2013, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

always a challenge to keep my kids from getting bumps

found that 638 children under age 12 died in car crashes,

and bruises. Short of completely swaddling my children

and about 40 percent of them weren’t secured. Children

in bubble wrap – which isn’t exactly a reasonable option

injured in crashes numbered more than 127,250.

– there’s no way to completely protect them from the

occasional minor “owwie.”

needlessly, because in the vast majority of these cases their

When it comes to traveling in the family vehicle

lives would have been saved if they were properly secured.

with children, I advise parents to never take any chances.

We’ve all heard about how seat belts save lives, and car seats

Properly restraining children, whether it’s with a car seat,

and booster seats are equally as important. Depending on a

booster seat or in a seat belt, can be life-saving in the event

child’s weight, height and age, the means for safely securing

of a car accident.

them in a vehicle change. Failing to use the right method or

Many of these are children were injured or killed

the right seat can lead to serious injury and even death for a

exercising restraint

child, even in minor crashes.

This is an issue that is near and dear to my heart,

sizing up the situation

especially because I see it is such a problem in this area. On a daily basis, I see far too many children who are not

Choosing the correct restraint option for your

secured or improperly restrained while riding in a car. It is

child depends entirely on their height, weight, age or a

no exaggeration to say that most days, I could stand at the

combination of these. Here are the guidelines to follow:

curb at any school in town and find children either roaming

• Rear-facing until age 2. It wasn’t long ago that we

free or riding dangerously in vehicles.

turned children around when they turned 1 year old,

but evidence shows that their bodies are too small to

This is not an isolated problem. According to the

Join us for a car seat safety inspection at the Meijer grand opening on June 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

{ paid advertorial }

• Once the child is 4’9” tall, a seat belt without a booster seat can be worn properly. Any child under the age of 13 should always ride in the back seat to prevent injury from air bags in the front seat.

safe passage

It’s not just important to use the proper car or booster seat,

but also to make sure you’re using them correctly. Failing to install or use a car seat properly may mean your child isn’t protected in case of a crash.

Here are additional guidelines for proper usage of restraint

seats and seat belts: • When you install a car or booster seat, make sure to properly secure it using the seat belt or your vehicle’s LATCH system (LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, a system mandated by the federal government in an effort to handle the impact of a collision in a forward-facing seat. They

standardize and simplify the installation of child restraints).

should be restrained in a rear-facing infant seat until they

When a car seat is properly installed using either of these

outgrow it for weight and length. At that time they should

systems, it should not move more than one inch in any

be placed in a rear-facing convertible seat until at least age 2,

direction.

but ideally until they reach the maximum height and weight

• To do a seat belt installation, pull the seat belt all the way

limit allowed by the seat. Rear-facing seats provide support

out and then let it retract so the belt locks into place. You

to a child’s head and neck. This prevents potentially severe

will hear a clicking noise and the seat belt will not be able

head, neck and spinal cord injuries that can occur if faced

to be pulled out any further.

forward too soon.

• Nearly all new vehicles and child safety seats

• At age 4, high-back booster seats can be considered, but newer

manufactured after 2002 will be equipped with the

evidence shows it is safest to remain in a five-point harness

LATCH system. Anchor points are located between

seat as long as possible. That’s why many newer forward-

the vehicle’s seat cushion and the seat back in at least

facing car seats have higher weight and height limits, allowing

two rear seating positions. Child safety seats have tether

the child to remain in a harness longer. Both of my older kids

straps or rigid connectors that hook into these anchors,

were 6 years old before we moved them from the five-point

eliminating the need to secure the child safety seat to the

harness to the high-back booster seats using only the seat belt.

vehicle using the seat belt.

• After your child has outgrown their five-point car seat, switch

• Harness strap placement through the back of the car seat is

to a high-back booster seat. These seats help guide the seat

key. In rear-facing seats, the straps should be at or below the

belt into the correct position across a child’s shoulder (instead

child’s shoulders in the upper slots. In front-facing seats, the

of across their neck) to prevent serious internal injury. Use

straps should be at or above the child’s shoulders in the upper

a high-back booster seat as long as the child’s shoulder is

slots.

below the shoulder belt path. Once the shoulder is above the

• The harness clip should always be at armpit level and the

opening for the seat belt, the back should be taken off and

harness should be snug. No more than one finger should fit

only the booster seat portion should be used. Children should

between the harness and your child’s shoulder. Any extra

remain in a booster seat until they reach 57 inches in height

slack in the straps could allow the child to be ejected from the

(4’ 9”), which is the law in Kentucky.

seat in a crash.

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. May // June 2016

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• Children should always ride in the back of a vehicle until at least age 13 because of risk of injury if the airbags are deployed. • Seat belts should never be worn any way except with the belt across the shoulder. Placing the belt under the arm can cause severe injuries to the chest or abdomen. Placing the shoulder strap behind the rider can cause severe injuries to the abdomen or pelvis. • Car seats have a lifespan. Never use a car seat that is older than six years or that has already been through a car crash. The materials in the car seat deteriorate over time. Any type of impact can also cause stress fractures in the plastic than can prevent the seat from protecting your child in a future accident. Avoid buying used car seats unless you know the seat’s history or previous owner. If you’re in a crash with a car seat, check with your insurance company before buying a new one. They may cover part or all of the cost.

being resourceful There are a number of very helpful resources available when it comes to installing or using a car or booster seat, or finding an affordable seat. If you need help affording a car seat, Owensboro Health Foundation has a program to help families in need. For more information about this program, visit www.owensborohealth.org/ carseatsafety. If you need expert assistance in installing or checking a car seat’s safely, there are multiple options available. Be sure to call ahead to make an appointment, so you can be sure a certified technician will be available to assist you: • Janie Walther, Child Passenger Safety Technician, One Health Education & Wellness, 270-688-4878 • Daviess County Sheriff ’s Office, 270-685-8444 • Owensboro Police Department, 270-687-8888 • Trooper Corey King, Kentucky State Police Post 16, 270-577-1567 OP

Dr. John Phillips is a board-certified pediatrician with Owensboro Health’s One Health medical group. For more information or to schedule an appointment with a One Health Provider, call 844-44-MY-ONE (844-446-9663).

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

62 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

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discover

taking a

stand { by: elizabeth muster }

exting. A buzzword on the news, which reports that nearly 40% of teens have posted or sent nude images,

contacted Senator Joe Bowen to show support of the bill

but one we don’t want to hear in regards to our own children

Meanwhile Mrs. Taylor decided, “If we can’t scare

(dosomething.org). When Chantay Taylor, a guidance

them, let’s educate them.” She joined forces with Angel

counselor at Burns Middle School in Daviess County and a

Welsh, the Youth Services Coordinator at Burns Middle

mother of three, realized just how dire the situation is, she

School, and they shared a video with the eighth graders

decided to take action.

titled “Ally’s Story -- Second Thoughts on Sexting.” This

It was a particularly frustrating day at work last

video, available online at CommonSenseMedia.org, had

December. A fight had broken out. One student was

a profound impact on students. Mrs. Welsh commented,

accusing another of harassment. As Mrs. Taylor met with

“Many students do not realize how life-changing sending

students in her office, she discovered that five different

a sext can be. Teens more often than not think in the here

situations stemmed from students sending or receiving

and now, which unfortunately hinders their judgment

sexts. She investigated a little deeper and made 23 phone

when using social media.”

calls home to parents. She also contacted other schools in

On March 4, eighth grade teachers Robyn Hetman

the area to see if they were experiencing similar issues.

and Francie Watts accompanied 25 students to the Senate

They were.

session at the Capitol in Frankfort where Senate Bill 37,

“What can I tell them could happen from a legal

was debated, amended, and passed. “We sent students to

standpoint?” Mrs. Taylor asked her father, Larry Conder,

let them know that kids are in support of this bill as well as

a candidate for City Commissioner concerned about local

adults,” Mrs. Taylor explained.

youth and our community. Conder suggested his daughter

contact County Attorney Claud Porter.

and enjoyed meeting important people, even posing for a

Porter explained that current legal action takes an

group photo with Governor Matt Bevin. Garrett said the

all or nothing approach. If convicted, a juvenile would

bill is important because “it has happened in our school

receive a felony and be labeled as a sex offender, so judges

and surrounding schools and needs to be addressed so kids

seldom pressed charges. To create a punishment to better

know it is not ok, and that it can be punishable.”

fit the crime, Porter drafted a bill which would prosecute

The bill states that the “Transmission of a nude

children under the age of 18 who knowingly transmitted a

image by a person under eighteen (18) years of age is a

nude image or “sext” with a lesser offense. Mrs. Taylor then

Class B misdemeanor for the first offense and a Class A

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and kept in daily contact with him as it progressed.

Eighth grader Garrett Snyder attended the proceedings

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

misdemeanor for each subsequent offense.” Social studies

present and future consequences including damage

teacher Francie Watts explained, “A violation will not

to his/her reputation, school suspension, team

occur if reasonable steps were taken, whether successful

expulsion, and/or legal problems.

or not, to destroy or eliminate the nude image.”

• Advise your child to tell a trusted adult immediately if

Slated to go before the Kentucky House of

he/she does receive a sext or is the subject of one. He/

Representatives on April 15, the bill will become a law

she should not respond to or forward on the message.

in July 2016 if passed. “It’s not going to just make a

• Watch for warning signs in your child such as not

difference at Burns Middle School, but the whole state,” Mrs. Taylor explained. What an impact one phone call can make! To show support of the bill, contact Representative Tommy Thompson at Tommy.Thompson@lrc.ky.gov or call 270926-1740.

sleeping, skipping usual activities, struggling in school, and communicating with strangers.

For more information about cell phone and Internet safety: www.onguardonline.gov

How to discourage sexting: • Encourage healthy, respectful relationships whether online or in person. • Emphasize responsible behavior by setting clear rules

www.netsmartz411.org www.connectsafely.org www.ikeepsafe.org

and consequences for your child’s cell phone and/or

Information from “The Dangers of Sexting: How to protect your teen” (2015)

Internet use. You can also check call logs, set parental

Channing Bete Company, Inc.

controls, and limit text messaging. • Explain that sexts are public and forever and have

64 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

Elizabeth Muster has been a teacher for 13 years, a wife for 10 years, and a mother for 8 months. Every day is a learning experience.

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

HOME PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT Home playground sets allow children to enjoy a parklike setting in their own backyard. After purchasing a set, make sure you read all of the instructions and warnings prior to assembling and installing it. If your budget allows, hire a professional to do this for you. Place caps over screws and bolts. During the installation process, consider what type of protective surface you will use under the play set. Less than 10% of home playground equipment is installed with a shock-absorbing surface. This is likely why about 70% of injuries associated with home playground equipment occur as the result of a fall onto a nonprotective surface. Grass or dirt is not considered a protective surface. Instead, try using a loose-fill material like mulch, sand, gravel, or shredded tires. Other options include rubber mats or tiles. Be sure to extend your protective surface at least 6 feet in all directions around the play equipment. Also consider the height of the play set. A taller set is more likely to result in a longer fall and a more serious injury.

SAND BOXES

back TO THE

{ by: shanna mcginnis,

MD, FAAP

}

School is almost out and that means kids will spend more time playing in the backyard. There are some safety tips to consider to construct a play area that will be both fun and safe. Hopefully, these recommendations will allow your children to create summer memories rather than summer injuries. 66 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

Sand boxes are another common addition to backyard play areas. If you are constructing your own sandbox, be sure to use non-toxic landscaping lumbar and smooth the surface with sandpaper to reduce the risk of splinters. Fill the sandbox with natural river sand or beach sand. Avoid sand products that may contain crushed limestone, marble, or quartz. Also, cover the sandbox when it is not in use. This will help keep pets or other animals from using it as a litter box. Be sure to allow the sand to dry out prior to covering. Wet sand can foster bacteria or fungus growth. Periodically rake the sand to remove any debris or other materials that collect in the sand.

TRAMPOLINES Trampolines seem like lots of fun, but they account for around 100,000 injuries annually in the United States. Injuries are not uncommon, even among trained athletes. These injuries range from minor bumps

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and bruises to fractures to spinal cord injuries and rarely, death. Most injuries result when more than one person uses the trampoline at a time and are most common in children under 6 years old.

The American Academy

of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommend against using trampolines in a home environment. That being said, trampolines are common in backyards. If you choose to have a home trampoline, there are some safety precautions suggested by the AAP and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. First, only one person should jump at a time and there should be no jumpers under 6 years old. In order to enforce this rule, adult supervision is recommended at all times. There should be no flipping or somersaulting. Padding should be placed over the springs and a net enclosure should be used to minimize falls. It is important to note that these measures will not prevent injury. The recommendation is to choose an alternative activity or piece of play equipment.

LAWN MOWERS Keeping the backyard mowed is a big responsibility during the summer. Your older child may want to help out with this job to earn some extra allowance money, but there are some important things to keep in mind. The AAP recommends waiting until 12 years old to operate a push mower and 16 years old for a riding mower. Sturdy, closedtoe shoes should be worn when mowing as well as eye and ear protection. Children should never ride along with the operator of a riding mower.

Teach younger children to

pick toys up out of the yard so they do not get damaged by the lawnmower. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let summer turn into a bummer! Choose play equipment that will not only be fun, but safe, for your family. Teach your older children tips for safe mowing. When the final bell for summer break sounds, your backyard will be ready for safe play. Â OP

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

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

the kids eat free list

Monday 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)

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. May // June 2016

Tuesday Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée from 4 – 8 p.m. for kids 12 years and younger Denny’s – 2 free kids meals per adult meal purchase 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 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Pizza Hut – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of adult buffet from 5 – 8 p.m. at the South Frederica location

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Salsarita’s – free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Boogalou BBQ – free kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal

Thursday Bee Bop’s – free kids meal with the purchase of adult meal after 5 p.m. for kids 12 and younger Captain D’s – 2 kids meals for 99¢ with purchase of 1 adult entrée all day and night for children 8 and younger Ryan’s - $1.99 kids buffet for children 11 years and younger from 3:30 p.m. to close

Saturday Maloney’s – free kids meals from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Lure Seafood & Grille – free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée Wheatgrass Juice Bar – free kids smoothie with adult purchase

Sunday Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée for kids 10 and younger Maloney’s – free kids meals from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 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 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids 10 and under with adult purchase with a drink from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

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

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May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

may // june 2016 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

THURSDAY, MAY 5

OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY’S RIVERWORKS DISCOVERY: A JOURNEY OF EXPLORATION traveling exhibit, open now through June 5th! This exciting exhibit brings the Ohio River, and all of Mid-America’s inland waterways, to life through informative, hands-on exhibit that are fun for the entire family! Younger visitors will especially enjoy the large water table that allows them to experiment with water flow, currents, building barriers and dams and much, much more! This exhibit is free with admission (museum members are free) and is sponsored, in part, by: Evansville Propeller Club, Foertsch Group, Inland Marina, Kentucky Corn Growers Association, Owensboro Grain, Owensboro Riverport, Yager Materials and Yellow Banks River Terminal; Closed Monday, Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.; 122 E 2nd St.; 270-687-2732.

FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

MONDAY, MAY 2 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 3 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m. FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

HOUR Billy Egeler with Regional Motorsports Power Hour will be broadcast LIVE every Tuesday night at 7 p.m. from the Owensboro Convention Center during the months of April through September on 102.7 The Game ESPN Owensboro and simulcast on 94.7 WBIO. Billy will be talking about all things racing (primarily local and regional). Live broadcast will be in the lobby area near the Artisan Café by SFG on the first floor of the Owensboro Convention Center. Open to the public. Food and beverages are available during the show.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. 70 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. FREE BLUEGRASS OPEN JAM SESSION

Great time to come experience Bluegrass Music during open jam! Musicians begin at 6 p.m. and usually jam until around 9 p.m.; International Bluegrass Music Museum, 117 Daviess St.; 270-926-7891. SHERRIFF SCOTT & THE DEPUTIES DOORS From the streets of Nashville, the Deputies have found a strong and passionate instrumental voice for the sweet, urban songwriting of Sheriff Scott Simontacchi. Rooted in bluegrass music, this quartet stretches the traditional boundaries. The Deputies take great pride in their live sound and stage shows, giving them an expressive and dynamic presence that appeals to a wide variety of audiences; Open at 6:30 p.m. – Concert begins at 7 p.m.; International Bluegrass Music Museum, 117 Daviess St.; 270-926-7891.

SATURDAY, MAY 7 OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET season at the new location, 1205 Triplett Street Owensboro, KY 42303 (Across from the Old Owensboro Health Hospital) Hours 6:30AM - 12:00PM. Available items for May include: vegetable plants, vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, soaps, meats, eggs, milk, cheeses, baked goods, and local crafts PRESERVATION STATION Preservation Station Market Days are held the first full weekend of every month. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. with over 100 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. Bring your mom or come buy your mom a last minute Mother’s day gift! Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Hwy 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday Noon -5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www.visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook. FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS A weekend of flowers and fun. Trunnell’s will be blooming with color during this Festival. This festival will excite the entire family! Our guests can watch and learn about planting beautiful containers of flowers or how to start a backyard garden. Kids can make a decorative pot to take home, create their own grass head to take home and watch grow, play in the Family Fun Acre, ride on the Pedal Tractors, bounce on the Bouncy Balls, meet baby animals at the Animal Barnyard, master the Rope and Tile Maze, have their face painted, and more. Families will have a

blast mining for gems, fossils, and arrowheads in the Mining Sluice Adventure. “Absolutely Farmtastic Fun!” 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.;$7/child (includes Family Fun Acre, Animal Barnyard, Create a Grasshead or Paint a Pot, and more) FREE admission for adults and children 12 months and under; All gardening demonstration classes are FREE! Trunnell’s Family Farm Market, (270) 733-2222. FREE 1ST WEEKEND WONDERS Join the

Western Kentucky Botanical Garden for a volunteer work session; 9 a.m. – noon; WKBG, 25 Carter Rd.; 270-852-8925. 1ST SATURDAY FLOWER POWER This is a fun, hands on learning experience for your elementary aged children age 5 - 11! 10 a.m. – noon; WKBG, 25 Carter Rd.; 270-852-8925. Talk Derby to Me Lure Seafood & Grille in partnership with The Fresh by Gene’s Food Truck will be hosting an event during the 2016 Kentucky Derby! There will be indoor viewing of the race and entertainment! Live music on the patio all day. The Fresh by Gene’s Food Truck will serve patrons for the event. Games, such as corn hole, will be played in McConnell Plaza! The fun begins at 12 p.m.; Lure Seafood & Grille, 401 W 2nd St.; 270240-4556. FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE SUNSET CRUISERS DOWNTOWN

CRUISE-IN May’s theme will be MOPAR all makes and models are welcome. Enter 3rd and Allen Streets. Enjoy shopping, restaurants and door prizes; 4 – 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, MAY 8 – MOTHER’S DAY MUM’S DAY AT THE GARDEN Enjoy great food and beautiful flowers! A Mother’s Day Dining Treat Designed by Jeanie Bosley Heath & The Mum’s Day Chefs; Unveiling of Owensboro High School Fine Arts Students’ Hand Painted Pathway Garden Stones, Emily A. Plummer, Visual Arts Teacher; $25 per person for members and $30 per person for non-members; Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, 25 Carter Road; 270-852-8952. Mother’s Day Brunch Treat Mom to a delicious dining experience at the Owensboro Convention Center! Enjoy a delightful brunch buffet featuring, breakfast station, entree station, dessert station, all to make make her day more special! $27 for adults; #13.50 for children 6 – 12; Children under 5 are free; Owensboro Convention Center, 270-6878800.

MONDAY, MAY 9 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – www.OwensboroParent.com

calendar 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 10 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. WOMEN’S GUILD LUNCHEON EVENT Enjoy a tour of the beautiful home of Marcia & Jeff Carpenter and enjoy a southern lunch in the backyard with sweet tea! Tickets $20 per person; 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 270-685-4391.

THURSDAY, MAY 12 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. POKEY LAFARGE The St. Louis-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist draws from a deep well of American musical traditions to create distinctively personal music that’s timeless rather than retro, transcending the confines of genre in a manner that reflects the artist’s openhearted attitude. He’s also earned a reputation as a tireless, uniquely charismatic live performer, winning a loyal international fan base that regularly packs his rousing, celebratory live shows. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. – Concert begins at 7 p.m.; International Bluegrass Music Museum, 270-926-7891.

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FRIDAY, MAY 13 38TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL BAR-B-Q FESTIVAL The International Bar-B-Q Festival was created in 1979 to celebrate the longstanding reputation and claim-to-fame for “Good Ole Daviess County Bar-B-Q” and to provide a forum for local charitable organizations to raise funds to support their causes. The competition is fierce and the flavors rich as local cooking teams produce the best that their secret recipes have to offer in an effort to win the Governor’s Cup, the prize awarded to the best overall Bar-B-Q cooking team. Visit www.bbqfest.com for events, schedules, times and event location. The schedule will be updated as events and activities are confirmed. JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY WITH SPECIAL GUEST, JARED ASHLEY Kick off the 2016 International Bar-B-Q Festival with John Michael Montgomery and special guest, Jared Ashley in concert! John Michael Montgomery has turned an uncanny ability to relate to fans into one of country music’s most storied careers. Behind the string of hit records, the roomful of awards, and the critical and fan accolades that have defined his phenomenal success lies a connection that goes beyond his undeniable talent and his proven knack for picking hits such as “Life’s A Dance,” “I Swear,” “I Love the Way You Love Me,” “Be My Baby Tonight” and “Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident).” Montgomery has charted 18 Top 10 hits and 15 No. 1s and has achieved over 18 million albums sold. Emerging singer and songwriter Jared Ashley shows his distinctive sound in his debut single “Last Train to Memphis.” Ashley was a finalist on season four of USA Network’s Nashville Star, where he set himself apart from a sea of 30,000 hopefuls. $20 General Admission (standing room with limited seating). $40 VIP that includes table seating, food, and cash bar. Menu includes BBQ sliders, chips, and coleslaw. Tickets available online at www.owensborotickets.com, at the Owensboro Convention Center Box Office, or charge by phone at 270-687-8800. OMG! Game Days Only $5 per day, Video Games & Table Top Tournaments, Events, Prizes and More! Owensboro Convention Center, 2 – 10 p.m.

SATURDAY, MAY 14 OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET at the new location, 1205 Triplett Street Owensboro, KY 42303 (Across from the Old Owensboro Health Hospital) Hours 6:30AM

- 12:00PM Available items for May include: vegetable plants, vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, soaps, meats, eggs, milk, cheeses, baked goods, and local crafts 38TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL BAR-B-Q FESTIVAL See event description on Friday, May 13. 2ND ANNUAL OLD SCHOOL PROM- WAY OUT WEST- 7 PM to Midnight Put on your boots, a top hat, and a bolo tie or pull out the saloon girl dress from your closet for a boot stomping, booty shaking, Wild West kind of a night! The 2nd “Old School” PROM at Preservation Station is Saturday May 14th 7 PM to midnight with the Andy Brasher Band! This is a prom for adults- complete with a CASH BAR, a food trough, live music, and a crazy, out-of-this-world Wild West INSPIRED decorated old school gymnasium, and wildly fun photo opps. We are crowning a PROM KING AND QUEEN for one male and one female who show up donning the craziest WILD WEST inspired outfits! Dress crazy! Give people something to talk about! Tickets are $15 per person/$30 per couple if purchased by Saturday May 7th at Preservation Station. Any remaining tickets can be purchased at the door for $20 per person/$40 per couple. For more information, call 270-993-7532. FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org OMG! GAME DAYS Only $5 per day, Video Games & Table Top Tournaments, Events, Prizes and More! Owensboro Convention Center, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

MONDAY, MAY 16 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 17 FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m. U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

calendar FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 19 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 20 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. Friday After 5 was again named one of the “Top Ten Summer Festivals” in Kentucky and just won the prestigious Reader’s Choice Platinum Award for “Best Community Event” of the year. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. Tonight we kick off our 20th anniversary season of Friday After 5 as the All America City of Owensboro brings “Pink Cadillac” (Funk/R&B/Showband) to the patio stage (6:30-10:00), Andy Brasher is in the Atmos Courtyard (7pm-10pm), Mardeen rocks the Don Moore Party Pier at the Convention Center (8pm-11:30pm) and we’re featuring “up and coming” new artists on the Cromwell Radio “New Sound Overlook.“ It’s a non-profit block party at the Kroger street fair. Details at www.FridayAfter5.com and www.VisitOwensboro. www.fridayafter5.com/event/may20

SATURDAY, MAY 21

lives. Walk with friends, family, coworkers and beverages are available during the show. other member of the community you meet along the way. Join us – the life you save WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 could be your own! 8 – 11 a.m.; Smothers Park U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All must through Downtown. wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2 are free, unless they are the only child, adults FREE RELAY FOR LIFE OF DAVIESS COUNTY always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or Teams of people camp out around a track. ubouncepartyhouse.com. Members of each team take turns walking around the track. Food, games and activities THURSDAY, MAY 26 provide entertainment and build camaraderie. FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and Family-friendly environment for the entire younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – community. Because it’s a team event, 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 individual participants are not required to be Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. there the entire time. But it’s so much fun, you’ll find it hard to leave! 4 – 11:45 p.m. at FRIDAY, MAY 27 Apollo High School. FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series of FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the concert series on Saturday nights May through eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, September at the River Overlook Stage in Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the bands, family events, food and entertainment City of Owensboro. Overlook Stage: Wild Sky – and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday Allen Street Gazebo: Millie & Tyler at 7 p.m. After 5. This week at Friday After 5 Champion Ford takes us all back to the classic rock sound FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2 of the 70s with “Midnight Special: A Classic -4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Rock Experience” (70’s Classic Rock, 6:30pmFrederica St.; dcplibrary.org 10pm), plus “Greg Scott” (Acoustic Jazz Blues 7pm-10pm) in the Atmos Courtyard, Evansville’s THE KING, THE KILLER & THE MAN IN BLACK Osiella Band (Pop Hits 8pm-11:30pm) is on the Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Don Moore Party Pier, Joy Johnson’s dancers Cash starring Brad McCrady, Terry Lee Ridley, and a surprise guest on the Cromwell New Frank Hamilton with Barry Potter & The Sound Overlook (beginning at 7pm) plus we’re Hosscats. Tickets $12 in advance or $15 at the hosting the Corvette Cruisers at the Kroger door. Children 12 and under are free with a Street Fair. Tonight’s Glenn’s Gospel on the paid adult; Diamond Lake Resort Good Time River features “The Crossmen Quartet, Firm Theater. Foundation and Still Water” inside the RiverPark Center’s Cannon Hall. (7pm-9pm) Fun. Free. MOONSHINE 5K TRAIL RUN Sponsored by Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend New Beginnings, a one of a kind trail run or Begins. Details at FridayAfter5.com and walk that includes moonshine at the finish line! VisitOwensboro.com Registration for this event is $26 and includes a shirt and drink ticket for flavored moonshine SATURDAY, MAY 28 cocktails. Plus the Josh Merritt Band will be playing some of their best bluegrass favorites! KIDS DAY KICKOFF FESTIVAL AT THE OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET This chip-timed event will include awards at the new location, 1205 Triplett Street to top 3 who finish in their age category. Owensboro, KY 42303 (Across from the Old Children are welcome but drink tickets will Owensboro Health Hospital) Hours 6:30AM only be distributed to those who show proof - 12:00PM Come see multiple students from of age being 21 and older. Please bring your across Owensboro and Daviess County sing license with you that evening. Non-alcoholic and perform various acts all morning. Available beverages will be available to those under 21; 8 – 11 p.m. at Diamond Lakes Resort. items for May include: vegetable plants, vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, soaps, meats, eggs, milk, cheeses, baked goods, and local MONDAY, MAY 23 crafts FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE at DCPL 2 -4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org

OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET at the new location, 1205 Triplett Street Owensboro, KY 42303 (Across from the Old Owensboro Health Hospital) Hours 6:30AM - 12:00PM Available items for May include: vegetable plants, vegetables, fruits, flowers, TUESDAY, MAY 24 herbs, soaps, meats, eggs, milk, cheeses, baked U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must goods, and local crafts wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or FREE THE 2016 DAVIESS COUNTY HEART ubouncepartyhouse.com. WALK is the American Heart Association’s premiere event that brings communities FREE Regional Motorsports Power Hour Billy together to raise funds and celebrate progress Egeler with Regional Motorsports Power Hour in the fight against this country’s No. 1 will be broadcast LIVE every Tuesday night at 7 and No. 5 killers, heart disease and stroke. p.m. from the Owensboro Convention Center This inspirational day is filled with energy, during the months of April through September excitement and hope! Designed to promote on 102.7 The Game ESPN Owensboro and physical activity and heart-healthy living, the simulcast on 94.7 WBIO. Billy will be talking Heart Walk creates an environment that’s fun about all things racing (primarily local and and rewarding for the entire family. This year, regional). Live broadcast will be in the lobby more than one million walkers will participate area near the Artisan Café by SFG on the in nearly 350 events. Your participation will first floor of the Owensboro Convention help us raise even more in our fight to save Center. Open to the public. Food and 72 OWENSBORO PARENT

. May // June 2016

FREE LIVE ON THE BANK LIVE on the Banks

is a FREE, outdoor concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro; 101st Airborne Band – Allen Street Gazebo: Pickin’ In The Park at 7 p.m.

MONDAY, MAY 30 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. FREE MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION at

Shelton Memorial in Smothers Park at 9 a.m. www.OwensboroParent.com

TUESDAY, MAY 31 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE BLUEGRASS OPEN JAM SESSION

Great time to come experience Bluegrass Music during open jam! Musicians begin at 6 p.m. and usually jam until around 9 p.m.; International Bluegrass Music Museum, 117 Daviess St.; 270-926-7891.

THURSDAY, JUNE 2 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 3 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

www.OwensboroParent.com

and we are hosting the “Moonlight Bike Ride” tonight, too! We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm). Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins in uptown downtown Owensboro. Details at FridayAfter5.com and VisitOwensboro.com HONK JR. TWO youth is performing the muscial Honk, JR! Ugly looks quite a bit different from his darling duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling rather foul about himself, the little fowl finds himself on adventure of self discovery all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry Cat. Along the way Ugly meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out being different is not a bad thing to be; Friday and Saturday evening at 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m.; Tickets: Adults $18 and Students $12; 270-683-5333

SATURDAY, JUNE 4 FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE at DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org PRESERVATION STATION Preservation Station Market Days are held the first full weekend of every month. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 5 p.m. with over 100 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Hwy 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday Noon -5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www.visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook. DESSERT COMEDY THEATRE Treat yourself and the ones you love to a Sweet Life! Dessert Comedy Theatre on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at Utica Baptist Church in Utica, KY. You’ll enjoy a fun evening of clean, familyfriendly comedy and music, followed by an array of scrumptious desserts. It’s a sweet treat your friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family will love! Nationally-known comedian Scott Davis will serve up his special brand of humor, which is sure to leave you laughing. Davis has performed on television and stage with Mark Lowry, Dennis Swanberg, and Mark Hall of Casting Crowns. His comedy has delighted hundreds of thousands across the

U.S. and abroad. A 1979 graduate of Liberty University, Scott is also the author of the memoir “If My Body is a Temple, Then I was a Megachurch,” which was published and released nationwide in 2011. Tickets are $10 if purchased in advance or $15 at the door. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the fun begins at 6:00 p.m. Utica Baptist Church is located at 415 Hwy 1207, Utica, KY. Childcare will not be provided. For more information, please visit www.uticabc.org or call Utica Baptist Church at 270-733-4517. You can also purchase tickets at Lifeway Bookstore in Owensboro. HONK JR. See event description on Friday, June 3. FREE 1ST WEEKEND WONDERS Join the

Western Kentucky Botanical Garden for a volunteer work session; 9 a.m. – noon; WKBG, 25 Carter Rd.; 270-852-8925. 1ST SATURDAY “JITTERY JUNEBUGS” This is a fun, hands on learning experience for your elementary aged children. For ages 5-11; 10 a.m. to noon; WKBG, 25 Carter Rd.; 270-8528925. TAKE A KID FISHING DAY Casting and Reeling Contest, Hotdogs, Chips and Drinks Provided, Prizes and T-Shirts. All kids must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Life jackets are required for all kids 7 and under. Please bring your own poles! Bring a cooler of ice to take fish home! Limited bait provided. Pre-Registration Deadline May 27. Bring your own bug spray! Rain Date June 11; $1 Pre-Registration, $2 Day of Event; 9 a.m. – noon at Panther Creek Park. FREE SUNSET CRUISERS DOWNTOWN

CRUISE-IN June’s theme is General Motors all makes and models welcome.. Enter 3rd and Allen Streets. Enjoy shopping, restaurants and door prizes; 4 – 9 p.m. 100 MEN WHO COOK This unique fundraiser, originally started by the Glenmary Sisters, will feature 100 community “chefs” who will prepare their favorite appetizer, side dish, entrée or dessert just for you! All money raised will benefit the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club. This is sure to be the social event of the year and one you don’t want to miss! $50 Single, $400 Table of 8; 6 – 11 p.m. at Owensboro Convention Center; More information available at www.Owensboro100MenWhoCook.com.

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

calendar FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro. The Rifleman – Allen Street Gazebo: LightStruck at 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, JUNE 5 PRESERVATION STATION See event description on Saturday, June 4. HONK JR. See event description on Friday, June 3.

MONDAY, JUNE 6 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 7 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

MOONLIGHT RIDE Friday June 3rd at 9:30 p.m. Cost $25 Register at moonlightride.us. Enjoy a moonlight ride under the stars while supporting a great cause! The third annual Moonlight Ride will take place Friday, June 3, 2016. Proceeds benefit St. Jude Children’s research. “We partnered with St. Jude because there are unfortunately several families in our community who have relied upon St. Jude,” explained City Events Coordinator, Tim Ross. The ride is a fun way to support that cause. The night begins at McConnell Plaza with dance music and a glow party starting at 8 p.m. Breck’s and Legend’s will be on site to do bike check-ups before the ride. Participants are encouraged to decorate themselves and their bikes with glow sticks or flashing LEDs. There will be other things to decorate with on site if needed. The route this year will be a 10-mile outand-back down J.R. Miller Boulevard. The Moonlight ride is recommended for ages 10 and up. “We see the whole gamut: kids, teenagers, parents, and grandparents,” Ross says. “It’s a safe ride for casual or avid riders. We have a police escort and the streets are blocked at intersections.” The event began as a way to provide a different type of event for families. The idea was a night-time ride under the stars to kick off the summer. The first year, there were 320 participants. The second year, attendance increased to over 400. This year the crowd is expected to be around 500. Please, bicycles only. (There are railroad tracks along the route.)

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. May // June 2016

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m. FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 9 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 10 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful

Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, Owensboro Health presents “Black Widow” (Motown Showband 6:30pm-10pm) on the RiverPark Center Patio Stage, “Jed’s Acoustics” (country acoustic 7pm-10pm) in the Atmos Energy Courtyard, “Insulated” (country/blues/ classic rock 8pm-11:30pm) on the Don Moore Party Pier at the Owensboro Convention Center. We’ll feature all of the finalists from this spring’s “Owensboro’s Got Talent” contest on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm) and “Healthy Kick off to Summer” theme at the Kroger Street Fair. Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com and www.VisitOwensboro.com OMG!CON 2016 OMG!con is an annual event that brings together anime, video games, and general fandom for a weekend of fun & excitement. There are special guests, vendors, panels/workshops, and events such as cosplay contests and video game tournaments;Tickets: $25 Friday – $30 Saturday – $20 Sunday; 3 Day Passes: $45 until May 24, then $50; Children ages 5 and under are free. Children ages 6-9 are half off. *Parent Passes for 1 day – $5. Parent Passes for 3 days – $10 *Parent Passes are for parents or guardians who plan to only be at the event to keep track of a child under the age of 15. Friday, June 10 (10 a.m. – Midnight); Saturday, June 11 (9 a.m. – 2 a.m.); Sunday, June 12 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

SATURDAY, JUNE 11 OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET Taste of Farmers’ Market Fest at the new location, 1205 Triplett Street Owensboro, KY 42303 (Across from the Old Owensboro Health Hospital) Hours 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Available items for May include: vegetable plants, vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, soaps, meats, eggs, milk, cheeses, baked goods, and local crafts OWENSBORO SOAPBOX DERBY Local Race Enjoy the fun all day at Bew Hawes Gravity Race Track! FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

www.OwensboroParent.com

Overlook Stage: Alonzo Pennington – Allen Street Gazebo: Knotted Twine String at 7 p.m. SUMMER YOGA SERIES: SEVA SATURDAYs Downtown Seva=Self-less service. We are Yogis in Service. The classes are donation based. All proceeds are given to our organization in need/charity of the month. This summer, The Yoga Loft KY will be offering free yoga to the community at Smothers Park in Owensboro. This class is open to the community and all ages and skill levels are welcome. Yoga is healing and health supportive. We want as many people as possible to practice yoga in our community. Whether you are a beginner to experienced practitioner come out to enjoy the sunshine and yoga! Place: Smothers Park The Overlook or The McConnell Plaza (grassy area behind Lure Seafood and Grille/The Hampton Inn). Announcements the day prior will be made as prior reservations (weddings or other events) may shift exact location. Cost: $5 Donation. All proceeds will be given to the charity of the month. Limited mats and blocks will be available. Please bring your own if available to you. No registration is required, just show up ready to have fun and play! Please sign waiver before class starts. For more information, contact The Yoga Loft at 270-685-3162. FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org OMG!CON 2016 See event description on Friday, June 10.

www.OwensboroParent.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 12

THURSDAY, JUNE 16

OMG!CON 2016 See event description on Friday, June 10.

FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

MONDAY, JUNE 13 FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 14 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 17 FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, Republic Bank brings one of our most popular bands to the party. “Caribou” (popular dance hits 6:30pm-10pm) is on the RiverPark Center Patio stage, “Matt Clark” (acoustic popular rock 7pm-10pm) in the Atmos Energy Courtyard, “LaFever” (Pop R&B 8pm-11:30pm) lights up the Don Moore Party Pier and the City of Owensboro’s fleet of fun vehicles will be on hand for kids of all ages to see close up at the Kroger Street Fair. We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm). Plus Glenn’s Gospel on the River series continues with the “Childress Family”, “Living by Faith” and the “Johnson Family” (gospel 7pm-9pm) inside the RiverPark Center’s Cannon Hall. Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com www.VisitOwensboro.com www.VisitOwensboro.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 BOURBON AND BLUEGRASS CENTURY RIDE Owensboro’s very own Century Ride! Bicycle

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

Owensboro has teamed up to sponsor a bike ride to benefit Dream Riders of Kentucky. The ride will begin at Waymond Morris Park on Saturday, June 18, 2016. There will be a 15, 30, 60 and 100 mile routes. The 100 mile route will start at 7:30 am, the 60 mile route at 8:00 am, the 30 mile route 8:30 am and the 15 mile route at 9:00 am. Registration on the day of the ride will begin at 6:300 am. Registration is $25 until May 31, 2016, after $35. The 15 mile route will be $15. Register online at www.signmeup.com or by mailing a registration form to Paula Hayden Insurance, 728 Carlton Drive, Owensboro, KY 42303. More information is on the Bourbon and Bluegrass Century Facebook page. FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org SUMMER YOGA SERIES: SEVA SATURDAYS Downtown Seva=Self-less service. We are Yogis in Service. The classes are donation based. All proceeds are given to our organization in need/charity of the month. This summer, The Yoga Loft KY will be offering free yoga to the community at Smothers Park in Owensboro. This class is open to the community and all ages and skill levels are welcome. Yoga is healing and health supportive. We want as many people as possible to practice yoga in our community. Whether you are a beginner to experienced practitioner come out to enjoy the sunshine and yoga! Place: Smothers Park The Overlook or The McConnell Plaza (grassy area behind Lure Seafood and Grille/ The Hampton Inn). Announcements the day prior will be made as prior reservations (weddings or other events) may shift exact location. Cost: $5 Donation. All proceeds will be given to the charity of the month. Limited mats and blocks will be available. Please bring your own if available to you. No registration is required, just show up ready to have fun and play! Please sign waiver before class starts. For more information, contact The Yoga Loft at 270-685-3162. ELVIS & COUNTRY LEGENDS TRIBUTE SHOW Elvis Presley, Conway Twitty & Loretta Lynn, starring Brad McCrady, Travis James & Emily Portman with Barry Potter and The Hosscats. Tickets $12 per person in advance, $15 at the door, children under 12 free with a paid adult at Diamond Lake Resort Good Time Theater.

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FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro. Overlook Stage: Roy Kyle, Hot Rod Cruisers – Allen Street Gazebo: Chloe Dempsey at 7 p.m.

MONDAY, JUNE 20 EXPERIENCE BLUEGRASS DAY CAMP FOR KIDS Music day camp for children ages 8 to 12. They will learn all about local legend, Bill Monroe, and how he started Bluegrass music as they tour the International Bluegrass Music Museum and see the different instruments played live. They will take what they learn and turn it into a song to record. Each child will get their very own copy of the song on CD. Students will also learn chords on the Mandolin (instrument provided) to play and sing Blue Moon of Kentucky. They will also learn an old time square dance and create some musical art. Friday there will be a performance with all the students for family and friends. They will show off all their new skills! Limited to 25 kids ages 8 to 12 – Deadline to sign up June 17th – Performance for family & friends, Friday, June 26th at 11 a.m. What your child will learn to do: – Songwriting and Recording – Play the mandolin (instrument provided if needed) – Simple Square Dance – History of Bluegrass – Performance on Friday – Guided tour of the Museum – History and Demonstration of bluegrass instruments – Create Musical Art For more information, contact Randy Lanham at 270-314-0008.

2016 DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL will start with a Guided Tour of the Hybridized Daylilies in The Garden. Also includes a general talk about Daylilies, their characteristics, history and hybridization techniques. This will take place in the Gazebo at 10 a.m. and will include a walk thru the nationally recognized American Hemerocallis Society Display Garden; Free to Members, Adults $5, Seniors $3, Students & Youth $1; Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, 25 Carter Road; 270-852-8925.

TUESDAY, JUNE 21 2016 DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL Walk & Talk in The Garden Stephen Vest, editor, publisher and founder of Kentucky Monthly magazine will discuss how we pass on certain traits in his new book, UNEXPECTED INHERITANCE. Just as with Hybridizing Daylilies, “you can’t always control the traits you pass on to your descendants.” Nellie Rarick Memorial Presentation; Call 270852-8925 or email (wkbg@bellsouth.net to reserve your seat; Free to Members, Adults $5, Seniors $3, Students & Youth $1; Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, 25 Carter Road; 270-852-8925. U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com. FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m.

FREE STORYTIME WEE READ for ages 2 and

FREE REGIONAL MOTORSPORTS POWER

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK The series

will showcase a variety of bluegrass music on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from May through September, with a bonus ROMP prelude show on June 20 and some extra shows on Fridays in September. Performances will be from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street.

www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

May // June 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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