October / November - Henderson Family 2023

Lyndi's Top Picks

Two-Tier Decorative Tray

Last year I started using a two-tier tray as a decorative piece in my kitchen. With this said - I found myself gathering small decor to arrange on both tiers anytime I might be out and about, especially at Hobby Lobby. It has now become one of my favorite places to add decor in our home. It’s in the center of our kitchen, so I am able to add a little touch for every season in a very simple way.

Hash Brown Casseroles

My job for our Thanksgiving gatherings on both sides of our family is to make hash brown casseroles. The recipe is from my aunt, so everyone in my family already knows how delicious her casserole dish is. But I then introduced the casserole to my husband’s side of the family and it soon became the dish I bring to their Thanksgiving gathering, too. Luckily, we usually have our Thanksgiving gatherings on different days, or I would need another casserole bag to pack along for the trip to see our families.

Pumpkin Roll

I know many love all things pumpkin when fall comes around. Although I’ve never been one to order a pumpkin spice drink, I do love my pumpkin desserts - with pumpkin rolls being one of them. I remember in high school there would be a fundraiser each year selling baked goods, and I always wanted to order a pumpkin roll. They were delicious and have always been one of my favorites!

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Lyndi Mauk

How are we already entering the fall season?

With kids back in school, the busy season has officially started for many parents - including myself. School, sports, church activities, and more! But - I have to admit I absolutely love this time of year. I love the leaves changing colors, all things fall from decor to scented candles, pumpkin patches, football games, soups - the list could go on. It’s one of my favorite seasons!

I know I have mentioned before how I grew up as an Indianapolis Colts fan and my husband a Cincinnati Bengals fan. I watched the Colts with my dad, and now my kids are watching the Bengals with their dad and Pap. It has become our Sunday tradition. We all get together and watch the game, and I absolutely love it because it’s family time. It brings back so many wonderful memories with my own dad. We are a football-loving family, and we are ready for the new season to begin.

This issue is our agriculture issue where you will find all things related to agriculture. Agriculture plays such a huge role in Henderson County, and we are blessed to have so many amazing local farms. Inside, you will find a feature on four local farming families who share what life on their farm is like and the life skills their children are learning along the way. We have also featured two sisters who have started their own business with the help of animals from their small farm to offer parties to the community - with their family also starting up Henderson’s monthly “Road to the Rodeo” event. The Boucherie grandchildren have also answered some questions about the business their grandfather helped them start, and what it’s like being young entrepreneurs in the agricultural world.

Don’t miss reading about a group of Henderson County students and adults who recently traveled to Japan on a STEM trip just in time to share as the new school year has started.

Get in the Halloween spirit with our Graveyard Dirt Cups recipe and let your kids enjoy making a fun pumpkin craft that’s full of color for your fall or Halloween decorations.

Happy Fall Ya’ll!

LYNDI MAUK Editor, Henderson Family Magazine

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christie Netherton

Mandy Sue Glaser

Kaycee Inge

Jamie Plain

Ashley Wedding

Do you have a story idea?

We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to lyndi@tannerpublishing.com.

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Brock Quinton

Henderson Family is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise. For more information about advertising call 270-297-1600 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Andrea Roberson

Monica Tapp

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jamie Plain

ON THE COVER

Jay, Amber, Raecy and Mackenzie Adair

Photo by Wild WILD Light Photography

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHER

Darrin Phegley

Whit Phelps Photography

DISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey

To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 270-297-1600.

ONLINE

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PUBLISHER Jason Tanner 2624 New Hartford Rd, Building A Owensboro, KY 42302 270-297-1600

THE MOBILE SCIENCE ACTIVITY CENTER STOPS BY HENDERSON FARMERS MARKET

On Saturday, July 22 the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Mobile Science Activity Center stopped by the Henderson Farmers Market for a visit. The MSAC trailers have tons of educational opportunities conveniently located inside where students can use iPad interactive workstations to learn more about agriculture through a variety of activities. They target 4th and 5th grade, but there are activities available for all elementary aged students.

HENDERSON COUNTY FFA NAMED NATIONAL 3-STAR CHAPTER

The Henderson County FFA was recently announced as a National 3-Star Chapter, which is the highest rating a chapter can receive. In November, they will be recognized at the 96th National FFA Convention. This will be the third time HCHS FFA has received this award, as they also received this honor in 2014 and 2015. There are currently 8,995 chapters in the National FFA Organization. This also ranks Henderson County as one of the top 10% in the state of Kentucky.

Henderson FFA Secretary (2022/2023) Laynie Rich had a leading role in completing the application. Rich, now a junior at HCHS, stated “We set the goal of receiving a 3-star rating in the summer of 2022. Our members, officer team, and advisors worked extremely hard for this tremendous honor. It was definitely a year to remember and celebrate.”

FELDMAN FARMS HOSTS STAFFULTY GATHERING FOR SPOTTSVILLE ELEMENTARY

On Tuesday, August 15 Spottsville Elementary School had their first “staffulty” gathering at Feldman Farms. They spent the evening creating fresh bouquets. “Our hosts, the Rideouts, were wonderful,” said Leslie Bartow, Assistant Principal. “We have a Culture Crew here at school where we organize monthly staff gatherings outside of school for any staff member who wants to attend. We try to mix it up and do a variety of things. For Feldman Farms, everyone met out there and went to pick their own flowers, then created their own bouquets.” Mason jars and green filler were provided by the Rideouts and Laura Rideout helped arrange for those that needed help with their arrangement. Staff members were able to bring their own children to this gathering if they wanted to as well. “Our Culture Crew has made a big impact on our school culture and staff morale. We also plan monthly morale things within the school day to keep things upbeat and positive.”

Wes Overton

Tell us a little about yourself (family, kids, pets, etc)

My name is Wes Overton. I am the middle child of three. My brother is two years older, and my sister is four years younger. I grew up on my father’s first-generation farm in Zion where my brother and I raised vegetables to sell with my grandfather. During high school, my brother and I baled and sold alfalfa hay, mums, and worked on my father’s farm. I graduated high school in 2002 and attended college where I received a degree in liberal arts. In 2008, I met my bride, Ashley Hunt. In 2011, we became engaged and married in 2012. That same year Ashley became an RN. Ashley and I moved into my farmhouse on Alves Ferry Rd, along with her son Dakota, and started our lives together. Little over a year later, I became a father with a daughter, Allie. We had our son, Avery, two years later, and then almost three years later we had our last daughter, Ava Claire. Our children have a dog, Lucy, horses, 4H hogs, and numerous chickens, of which they sell eggs to neighbors. Allie will also be selling mums this fall.

What do you do for a living and how long have you been working in this position?

I am currently a producer of agricultural commodities. My brother, father and I work alongside each other each day. We produce corn, soybeans and perform custom farming for some elder neighbors. We have also raised vegetables, tobacco, and custom fed chickens for Tyson foods. I have been a farmer full-time since 2004. I started out raising 40,000 lbs burley and 12,000 lbs dark tobacco.

What do you enjoy most about your job? What are some of the challenges?

Farming is an interesting career! Agriculture is a career in which you have very little control of outcomes due to the reliance on mother nature. One rain stands between a bad, good or great year! Farming gives you the privilege to work outdoors with nature. Only someone who grew up on a farm can understand the smell of fresh dirt, the sound of a corn field in the wind, or the smell of an ear forming on the stalk. It is quite satisfying seeing the seeds you planted germinating from the soil. One of the best parts of being a farmer is raising children where life is real! They get to see the results

of their hard work. The skills and values they learn outside is unmeasurable. There are several issues facing agriculture, one of the top ones right now is solar farms. Crops can’t grow everywhere, and the placement of solar panels on cleared productive soil is terrible. Finding skilled labor is very difficult for several reasons: the high wages paid for off farm jobs, the complexity of the technology, and the lack of work ethic are just a few. It’s not easy sending a novice operator to perform a task with a quarter to a half million-dollar piece of equipment. Inputs have been quite the issue in recent years, both availability and price.

Outside of farming, what hobbies does your family enjoy?

We attend church and church events regularly. My children enjoy the children’s programs they participate in. My children and I also like to ride horses and camp. My brother’s family and mine enjoy dealing with horses and are looking into starting training for both horses and people looking to learn to ride. My children love to go to fun shows with their horses where they barrel race, pole bending, and simply trail riding. We enjoy time on the boat with my parents as well.

How do you find balance between work and family?

It is quite difficult sometimes to juggle fun with work, but with the understanding that we all work hard together, the balance works. There are times horse riding must take a pause to spray beans, or camping gets cut short because fields dry for planting. The best part about living and working on a farm, work is part of the fun. I teach my family, with our love and respect for each other, smiles and hugs win in the end.

What advice would you give to those interested in the agriculture industry?

The best advice I can give a young person looking to enter the agricultural field is to find someone to shadow. Find an older farmer to work with. Far more will be learned from shared wisdom than a text or YouTube video. You must be patient. Farming is expensive, success is earned and fought for. One cannot compare to a multi-generation operation. Find a hole in the marketplace and fill it. Be willing to do what others are not. Your most valuable asset is your labor, use it wisely and to your advantage. Most importantly is persistence! You’re going to fail. You will have a bad year. Hard work can’t always cure bad management, but learn to adapt, redirect and try again. Above all, have an active relationship with our God and creator! HF

Photo by Darrin Phegley

Making it

GRAVEYARD DIRT CUPS GRAVEYARD DIRT CUPS

Recipe & Photo by Jamie Plain

This Halloween, give your kids a treat that’s both spooky and delicious with these graveyard pudding cups! Made with chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms, these cups are sure to be a hit. To make them even more festive, decorate them with tombstones made from Milano cookies and black icing. Your kids will love digging into these graveyard pudding cups!

INGREDIENTS:

›› 1 (3.9 oz) pkg chocolate instant pudding mix

›› 2 cups milk

›› 8 oz. cool whip

›› 1 pkg Oreo cookies

›› Milano cookies (cut into twos), edible marker (or writing frosting)

Optional types of Halloween decorations: Gummy worms, candy pumpkins, candy bones, ghost marshmallows, Halloween sprinkles.

DIRECTIONS:

›› Crush the Oreos in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin. Set aside.

›› In a mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Allow to sit for 5 minutes.

›› Fold the cool whip and approximately 1/4 of the Oreo crumbles into the pudding.

›› Layer cookie crumbles and pudding mix into small glasses.

›› Cut Milano cookies in half to make “gravestones”. Use an edible marker to add a “RIP”, then stick it into the pudding cup. Decorate with other optional Halloween treats.

›› Chill 1 hour before serving. HF

JAMIE PLAIN is a nationally published culinary and commercial photographer working as a full-time staff photographer for Tanner Publishing. She has a knack for making tasty food and pretty art. See more of her portfolio at jaastudios.com.

PUMPKIN PICASSOS

PUMPKIN PICASSOS

Create a fun and colorful pumpkin craft with pipe cleaners and pony beads. This activity is perfect for kids and can be a great addition to your fall or Halloween decorations. Here's how to make it:

MATERIALS YOU'LL NEED:

›› orange, green and brown pipe cleaners

›› orange pony beads (varying colors if possible)

INSTRUCTIONS:

›› Take 6-7 pipe cleaners and overlap them in their center. Twist them together at the center to form a spider-like shape.

›› Thread pony beads on to the pipe cleaners, leaving a small amount of space at each end.

›› Twist all the ends together to secure the beads.

›› Add green or brown pipe cleaners for the stem and/or vine.

You can also get into the season with some DIY painted pumpkins. Transform plain ceramic pumpkins into works of art that are perfect for decorating your space, adding a touch of fall flair, or even giving as special gifts. These pumpkins feature shades of orange, but you could opt for Halloween colors, rainbow or anything your child wants – let their creativity run wild!

ASHLEY WEDDING is the editor of Owensboro Parent Magazine. She enjoys everyday adventures with her husband, Drew, and their three kids, Avery, Reed and Mason.

If you make these adorable crafts, be sure to tag a photo of them on our social media accounts! We would love to see them!

Written by Ashley Wedding

Photo by Jamie Plain

Community

THE PEOPLE AND PLACES THAT MAKE HENDERSON GREAT

DREAM IT DECLARE IT do it

“You are doing great, and I am proud of you!” said Jennifer Heistand, to her daughters on their business accomplishments.

Madison (17) and Mollie (11) Heistand are two sisters from Henderson who know a thing or two about farm life - caring for and tending to horses, chickens, goats and rabbits. But - the idea to share their animals with the community came about when Madison and Mollie set out to find a way for Mollie to buy a new pony and Madison to start saving money for college. And soa new business adventure began known as “Party Ponies: Mobile Pony Rides and Petting Zoo.”

A Farming Family

Madison and Mollie live on a small farm with their parents, and about four years ago Madison began riding horses. She was self-taught and currently has a job riding horses for two private horse owners here in Henderson who both approached her for the job.

The Heistand family has 5 horses on their farm. Mollie has a mini pony named Noni, which is used for their business. They also have dairy goats, dwarf goats, chickens and bunnies. “It is a lot of work to have a lot of animals,” Jennifer said. Each family member has chores but sometimes

Written by Lyndi Mauk

they must help each other depending on circumstances. “Sometimes if one of us is struggling to do something, like if there is a big storm coming and everyone else is done, then we go over and help somebody,” Mollie explained.

Madison takes care of the horses and goats while Mollie takes care of the chickens and bunnies and gets the eggs. “All of our animals are really sweet because we mess with them everyday,” Madison said cheerfully. She laughed, explaining that their chicken coop isn’t very big, but Mollie is able to squeeze inside and the chickens will run up to her like they are pets. They didn’t

Photo by Whit Phelps Photography

technically have a mama, so Mollie calls herself their mama.

Madison’s interest and hobbies revolve around horses. She is wanting to go to college to train and possibly obtain a degree in equine studies at Asbury University near Lexington. “Horses are my thing,” she said. Outside of their new business, Mollie really enjoys playing the piano, horseback riding and planting and gardening.

The Idea

Mollie knew she was outgrowing Noni, who is about to be 6, so she really wanted to start looking for a new pony. She had painted a picture of what kind of horse she wanted, and one day they walked into Madison’s work and almost exactly what she had painted was in the stall. We couldn’t get it because it was too much,” Mollie expressed.

Madison stated, “She was so upset.” Madison knew when Mollie found the right pony they would have to get rid of Noni. And that is when the idea was born. Madison shared her idea, “I am like what if we did parties so that you could earn money to get another pony, and we could keep Noni because she would be doing something. Mollie said happily, “I want people to ride her, but I don’t want to sell her. We are keeping her to love on her while we are doing the party ponies. That’s basically what we want to do is kids can still ride her, and she can still get exercise.”

“She is like a dog,” Jennifer said laughing. Mollie added that Noni is like an outside pet. She is part of their family, and this new business gives her purpose since the girls can no longer ride her now. The girls took their business idea a step further by adding the petting zoo. Madison recently helped their dad, Jamie, fix up a trailer to transport their horses when she became interested in competing in speed and agility events. Madison found their trailer while driving down the highway and as Madison described, “it was a rust bucket.” They were currently borrowing a friend’s trailer to get their horses to and from events, so they knew they had to reach out and get the trailer. Their dad is a mechanic and showed

Madison how to do some of the body work. They worked together to design it. Once they began building the Party Ponies business, it made sense to add more of their animals since they had a way to transport all of them now. They had the animals and the trailer, so they were ready to start offering parties to the community!

The plan is they will work hard, and the girls will split the funds to go towards a new pony and college tuition. However, the money earned will also be used to help feed and care for their animals.

The Business

It took about a month to get Party Ponies up and going. Madison researched and built this business from the ground up on her own. Her dad helped her with some of the 501c3 paperwork, but she did the majority of it on her own. She also had to find costumes and worked on marketing to promote their new venture by designing their website, Facebook page and business cards.

“Party Ponies: Mobile Pony Rides and Petting Zoo” offers four themes: Mythical, Sunflower Country, Cowboy Country and Frozen. They are hoping to add a Knight themed party soon. Not only do Madison, Mollie and their pony, Noni, dress the part, but they provide costumes and props for the kids to take photos with as well.

When it comes to transporting the animals, their chickens are probably the easiest. Madison laughed as she explained how the baby chickens are moved in a cat carrier, and the baby chickens will run right inside for the road trip. The goats on the other hand can be the most challenging sometimes to get inside the trailer but are very loving. Smiling, Madison said, “If they can’t see you, they will yell.” Their dwarf goats are named Cotton and Candy. The girls bought these goats with their own money in Montgomery, Indiana. All of the animals will be inside a portable pen at the parties.

Madison says the most challenging task on their part is keeping all the animals in the pen and making sure kids follow the rules. They know how excited the kids will be, but

their #1 priority is making sure everyone is safe.

During the parties, Madison leads the pony. “I like playing the part and interacting with the kids.” Mollie went on to explain how they are always open to recommendations. Mollie said, “I like seeing them enjoy the animals, and for kids who don’t have a lot of animals or any at home, they can enjoy animals they don’t have.”

Not Their First Rodeo

Starting a business hasn’t been Madison, or her family’s, first experience bringing something new and exciting to the Henderson community!

When Madison began competing, she started in Indiana. She was brand new, but she did fairly well being her first show. The next weekend, she won quite a few events. That entire year, she was practicing and going out to compete every weekend. “By the end of the year, I had a few championship year-end points. It was hard to find competition in Kentucky, so I had to go further than Evansville.” However, Madison knew they could not keep traveling every weekend.

There were no shows at the Henderson County Fairgrounds. Madison and her family kept talking about how someone needed to start a show, and then one day her dad said, “Well ,if it’s going to be this hard, why don’t we just make a show ourselves!”

Madison explained it was kind of a joke for a while, but then they thought, “Why don’t we?” The next thing you know, the monthly Western Horse Show was created called “Road to the Rodeo (RTTR).” Jennifer explained, “Road to the Rodeo is not a rodeo, but it is a training ground that is basically a bridge between fun shows and rodeo. It is the “road to” for kids and anyone who wants to compete. RTTR was created in October 2022, but shows didn’t start until April 2023. The shows will end in October before they start preparing for the upcoming season.

Madison and her dad started looking into legal work, but had a lot of support from people in the community. “We wanted a festival atmosphere for riders and

spectators,” Madison said. “As a rider, I enjoy putting on a performance. I enjoy competing and going against other people, but it’s also fun to be in front of a crowd. We wanted to draw people in, as well as, have things for the riders so we came up with ideas: bounce houses, games, roping and great food. All kinds of stuff to draw people in.”

Madison used Canva to create everything for RTTR. Madison created all the forms, waivers, and banners and designed the website and awards for the event.

The monthly shows themselves have been a family business. “Every show is a learning experience. We couldn’t pull it off without volunteers,” Jennifer said. They would not have been able to get this event up and running without sponsors. Jennifer stated, “It takes a lot of time, effort and energy. What the show makes helps sustain the next one. It’s in its infancy stages, but it has gone really smoothly and great. We

got a lot of people here this time. People are finally hearing about it!”

Their last monthly show had riders from Illinois and even Texas who just happened to be in town for work. “Each time it progresses,” Mollie said. Mollie is the “concession tray girl” as she calls it. She will walk around and get orders - whether it be for the elderly or for those who don’t want to miss the show. She helps get drinks, chips, etc. She really enjoys it.

A Learning Opportunity

As a homeschooling family, Jennifer is always teaching her girls. However, these business adventures are teaching them so many life skills and lessons. She explained how they are learning so much

responsibility by living and caring for all their animals. “It takes a lot to do things like feeding and making sure their health is looked after.” Madison has taken this all on her own by learning how to set up a business. “It is stressful, but it is rewarding at the same time. She is learning a lot of things that a lot of adults don’t even know. I never would have done that at 17,” Jennifer said. For Mollie, she is working the concessions for RTTR by learning how to communicate with others and count money. “She is getting it and thinking in her head doing math,” said the proud mother. Their motto for RTTR is “Riding on Faith” and this rodeo venture has been truly that. Their family has taken a leap of faith to bring a fun-filled event to Henderson.

“They have done really well. It’s a great idea. The only thing we have left now is to learn how to drive with a horse trailer,” Jennifer said laughing. “I am proud of them because they are learning how to be responsible and do things on their own. We have a lot of adventures. Why not try it and see if it will work!”

“Dream It, Do It, Declare It” - this is what you will find on the back of Madison and Mollie’s trailer and these girls are proving you are never too young to dream big and make those dreams a reality.

To learn more about “Party Ponies: Mobile Pony Rides and Petting Zoo,” you may visit partyponies.godaddysites.com, email them at PartyPonies.Events@gmail.com or call 270-860-6955. For Road to the Rodeo, you may visit roadtotherodeo.com. HF

LYNDI MAUK, editor of Henderson Family Magazine, was born and raised in the Bluegrass State. She is grateful to be going through life alongside her husband and best friend, Brandon, and being a mother to their two kids.

More Than a Profession:

THE STORIES OF FOUR LOCAL FARMING FAMILIES

Written by Christie Netherton //

by Darrin Phegley

Agriculture and farming are more than a profession, they are a lifestyle, uniting families and providing youth with handson experiences, such is the case for four Henderson families who share their journey into farming and agriculture and how their children have cultivated their own entrepreneurial endeavors in the field.

Photo

From left, back row: Brianna Barnes, Heather Fehd, Cassandra Bennett, Amber Adair, Montana Fehd, 12, Anna Bennett, 16, Madelyn Bennett, 17, Raecy Adair, 16, Ana Green. Front row: Paige Bennett, 12, Mackenzie Adair, 8, John Tyler Green, 7, Cole Green, 6.

THE ADAIRS:

The Adair family, comprising Jay and Amber Adair and their children, Raecy and Mackenzie, transformed their farming passion into a vibrant lifestyle.

In 2019, they began livestock farming on their family property, “Rockin’ A Acres,” in Henderson, where Jay grew up. Raecy and Mackenzie are actively involved in the family farm, from raising sheep, pigs, and dairy goats, to participating in local and state fairs and selling pork and lamb at the farmers’ market. “That has just taken off,” Amber said.

The farm is a year-round commitment, with summer months filled with livestock shows and fairs, and the fall season dedicated to breeding sheep and goats. Pigs are bred throughout the year, and December to April is a “chaotic” period as they welcome newborn lambs, Amber said.

Raecy’s dedicated care during lambing and farrowing seasons involves constant monitoring and alarm reminders, sometimes resulting in long nights. “It’s a lot of work,” Amber said. “And I will give them credit. Most girls their age would not get out there and do a lot of the heavy lifting. Raecy does.”

Raecy and Mackenzie are also involved in 4-H, with Mackenzie starting her first year of Clover Buds, and Raecy participating in Area Team Council and preparing country hams for the state fair.

While the family puts a lot of work and time into the operation, Amber said it is well worth it, especially knowing they are feeding their community and

ensuring their animals are well fed and cared for throughout their lifecycle.

“I think for us, it’s kind of become a lifestyle, but it’s also kind of a pride thing … And it’s really a team effort,” she said.

THE BENNETTS:

The Bennett family – Cassandra and W.A. Bennett, along with their three daughters, Madelyn, Anna and Paige –created a fun, family business through their love of raising livestock.

“The idea to get the girls started in 4-H and raising dairy goats,” Cassandra said, “stemmed from wanting to find an activity and hobby that the whole family

profit out of it too. With a surplus of goat milk, the family started making goat’s milk lotion and soaps, which they sell at local craft shows during fall months. The family also sells a unique range of other products including “Rabbit Dust,” a plant fertilizer made from rabbit droppings; bath salts, candied pecans, and more.

Each family member plays a vital role, from lotion and soap production to animal care. Year-round preparation includes milk production, inventory management, and livestock training for shows. “We all have to pitch in,” Madelyn said.

Madelyn and Anna’s participation and leadership roles in FFA and 4-H also nurtures their leadership and entrepreneurial skills, while Paige uses her livestock earnings for cheerleading.

“This teaches them, not only leadership, but they’re learning how to network,” Cassandra said. “What we do, it’s given them the ability to deal with real life things.”

THE FEHDS:

could participate in.” So, in 2016, the family started dairy goat farming under the name, “Bennett’s Barnyard.”

“They all played softball when they were little. And [Madelyn] almost played travel ball, but her dad is such a homebody, and he wanted us to be together.” The operation expanded to include Black Angus cattle, Flemish giant rabbits, market hogs, ducks, and chickens.

Cassandra said the family quickly learned that, while raising and showing their animals was a great family activity, they had to somehow find ways to make a

Heather and her daughter, Montana Fehd, share a passion for raising goats.

Montana’s journey began at three when they received two goats as a gift.

“I took one goat and her (Montana) to the fair. Pippi Longstocking … and her walked all over the place. They were everywhere. She was hanging from the rafters in there, but as soon as she went into the show ring, it was like you turned on a light switch,” Heather said. “Something clicked in her because she just fell in love with it.”

Montana, now 12, manages her goat herd under the name, “Cheyenne Acres,” with the help of her mother and father,

David Fehd.

She joined the American Goat Society (AGS) in 2014 and the American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) in 2017. Her passion grew steadily, and by 2020, she became more invested in learning about breeding, genetics, and the overall development of her herd of 25 goats. Her daily routine involves milking, feeding, and health check-ups, with a challenging kidding season.

“Kidding season is one of the hardest parts of the year in maintaining the herd,” Heather said.

Cameras in the stalls ensure the family are present for every birth and able to assist the goats however is needed, including bottle feeding every newborn goat, Heather said. With a surplus of milk following breeding season, Heather said the family donates about 10 gallons a week to rehabilitating animals.

Montana’s involvement in 4-H, community service, and education complements her ability to build her goat herd. She hopes to achieve national champion status, and potentially become a certified judge in the future, though it could mean not showing her own goats as frequently as she would like.

As the end of showing months approach, Montana said she will start breeding her goats. Then, with the start of kidding season in April, she said that’s when she gets to do her favorite part – naming the newborns.

THE GREENS:

The Green Family – Ana, Tyler, and their sons, John Tyler and Cole –began goat farming three years ago in Hopkins County.

“We just started with a couple goats a couple years ago and then it really snowballed,” Ana said.

Ana said she originally bought

the goats because “they’re so cute,” but the family eventually purchased registered goats for John Tyler and Cole to show at fairs and have since expanded their herd to 19 goats.

John Tyler and Cole started showing their goats last year and participate in the Livestock Kids program in Henderson County, which is geared toward younger kids interested in raising livestock.

Though John Tyler and Cole are still young, Ana said the two help bottle-feed the baby goats and feed the adult goats on a daily basis, as well.

“We had a couple of bottle babies we started with, so that was something fun they could do,” Ana said. John Tyler said he and brother Cole wake up early to help with feeding, but they also just like to hang out with the goats too. “The thing I like about the goats is they’re so calm. When you first get them, they’re not calm, but you have to teach them. It’s just like you have a kid,” he said.

In addition to goats, the family also sells goat milk soap and runs a greenhouse, selling annuals, perennials, herbs, ferns, and some cool-season crops during fall and winter months under their farm name, “JTC Farm.”

Right now, Ana said John Tyler and Cole are growing their own plants, including watermelons and carrots.

“We got done selling spring plants at the end of May, and then the boys got to have at it and plant whatever they wanted, and they will help with putting the tags in the plants and all that fun stuff,” she said. HF

CHRISTIE NETHERTON is the Community Engagement and Marketing Specialist for RiverValley Behavioral Health. She is a local Kentuckian from Frankfort with a journalism degree from the University of Kentucky. She spends her free time roller skating at local parks, snuggling with her dog, and is a self-proclaimed foodie.

THE BOUCHERIE GRANDCHILDREN THE BOUCHERIE GRANDCHILDREN Meet Local Agriculture Entrepreneurs:

The grandchildren of the Boucherie family at Boucherie Winery started learning about what it takes to start, manage and work a business from the help of their grandfather when he helped them create E.M.C.O. Epic Growers. Emma, Memphis, Christian, Olivia, Claira and Violet work together in their farming business and several of them have shared a little bit about their local business below.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT E.M.C.O.

Emma Mayes (20) - E.M.C.O. is a farm that the grandkids started on our grandparents farm Summer 2013.

Claira Bell (7) - We do a lot of planting, and we plant in the spring. We sell in the summer, and then we plant pumpkins in the fall, and we harvest in the late, late fall.

HOW DID THE IDEA TO START E.M.C.O COME ABOUT?

Emma Mayes (20) - We went to our grandparents farm during the summer and wanted to earn some money over the summer, the two ideas went together!

Christian Mayes (15) - Our grandfather wanted to find a way to spend time with us and teach us about farming.

DOES EVERY GRANDCHILD HAVE A DIFFERENT JOB/RESPONSIBILITY? IF SO, WHAT ARE THEY?

Emma Mayes (20) - We mostly do the same jobs. The older kids do more physical labor while the younger kids do more of the selling; as the oldest though I did both.

Claira Bell (7) - All the grandchildren, they all really sell sweet corn. I plant pumpkins, and I harvest pumpkins and sell pumpkins and corn, too. So you do all of it? Yes! Plant, pick and sell.

Violet Pullum (5) - Memphis, I don’t really know what his job is but like all of the kids’ jobs are to pick corn and sell pumpkins and sell corn, too. What is your job? What do you do? Do you help with everything? (Nodding).

WHAT DO YOU CURRENTLY GROW AT YOUR FARM? DO YOU PLAN TO EXPAND IN THE FUTURE?

Emma Mayes (20) - Right now we grow pumpkins and corn. We used to grow more but found it wearing ourselves too thin and needing to downsize and focused on the crops that made the most money. We don’t currently have plans to expand again.

Photo by Mandy Sue Glaser

Christian Mayes (15) - Pumpkins and corn. I am not sure if we are going to expand any time soon.

Claira Bell (7) - We sell corn and pumpkins. Do you plan to do more in the future? Umm…no.

Violet Pullum (5) - Corns and pumpkins. Do you want to do more in the future? Yeah!

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT FARMING? WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLENGING IN THIS BUSINESS?

Emma Mayes (20) - I enjoy seeing plants I planted grow and produce crops as well as seeing other people enjoy them! The most challenging was enjoying it every second. Sometimes those corn fields are just so hot!

Claira Bell (7) - My favorite part about farming is I get to help with some of the equipment that we use, which we barely use it. Like the seed planter? Yeah, and I try to do it as fast as I can because it’s really hot outside. Andthat’s all that I really kind of like. The most challenging part about farming is probably doing some of the steps and when it’s hot out we have to try to hurry. But, whenever we hurry too fast we might mess up so we kind of have to do it slow and fast at the same time.

WHEN DOES YOUR PLANTING SEASON BEGIN, AND HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU WORK?

Emma Mayes (20) - Our planting season begins in April where we buy seeds and decide where to plant them. How many days depends on how much we grow and how fast we sell them. You have to work the field, buy seeds, plant seeds, put up electric wire to deter deer, move vines to make room, pull weeds, spray the plants, harvest, and go to market.

Christian Mayes (15) - We plant in early May and how many days we work varies from year to year.

Claira Bell (7) - We plant in the spring, and we harvest corn in the summer. Then we plant pumpkins in the fall and then we pick pumpkins in the late fall.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM STARTING AND WORKING IN THIS BUSINESS?

Emma Mayes (20) - I’ve learned about working hard and where my food comes from. I’ve also learned about the value of money from a young age, how to talk to customers, and how to grow my own food.

Claira Bell (7) - I learned that we can’t always do it by ourselves, and we need help sometimes with selling some of our stuff.

Emma Mayes (20) - Grow your favorite plants! Seeing your favorite flower, vegetable, or fruit grow is so exciting. Plus, it’s really easy to sell! Being able to talk about what you’re selling is so important when you’re at market and people can tell when you like the product. You can tell them your favorite way to show flowers or cook your favorite fruit or veggie, and they are more likely to buy it.

Christian Mayes (15) - Start off small to get a feel for it and slowly expand as is necessary.

Claira Bell (7) - Start by buying some of the materials. You definitely need wire because your corn could be all gone. What kind of wire? Electrical fence wire because it keeps animals and stuff away from the corn. What do they do to the corn? They knock it down, and they eat it and a bunch of worms can take over after that.

Violet Pullum (5) - The things that I like to do is probably like some pumpkins and corn. And - what’s it called again? So, selling is your favorite part? Yeah, because I get money! The hardest part about farming is picking corn in the summer because it’s so hot, and we have to do it so fast.

Violet Pullum (5) - I’ve learned how to be nice to people and help people and be kind to people and learn how to count money and learn how to sell.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER KIDS INTERESTED IN STARTING A FARMING BUSINESS?

Violet Pullum (5) - The first thing that I would do is probably show em’ around where the vineyard is, and where we cut and where we should do all of that stuff. Probably next, I would give them supplies and then we will go into the vineyard and mark all the way over to that barn and go down the hill - probably go past the bee nest. We would start putting up the electric fence and probably after that we would probably turn on the fence so no one can eat. So deers can’t eat the corn. If deers hop over the electric fence then they would take over and then after that the worms would take over because they’re tiny enough they can fit through that hole in the bottom. HF

HENDERSON LOCALS TAKE ON TOKYO! HENDERSON LOCALS TAKE ON TOKYO!

Written by Kaycee Inge

Going from Henderson, Kentucky with a city population just shy of 28,000 to Tokyo, Japan, the biggest metropolitan area in the world housing 39.1 million people is sure to be a culture shock. This past summer of 2023, thirty-two lucky Hendersonians got to experience the bright lights, big city atmosphere, and the sense of wonder that makes Tokyo one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Education First Tours, or EF Tours, is a tour company that provides student-oriented trips all around the world. This particular trip to Tokyo was all about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Twenty students and recent graduates from Henderson County High School and 12 adults braved this journey to Tokyo in an effort to further their knowledge about some of the greatest up and coming research and technology out there. I was lucky

enough to be a part of this trip, and it’s all thanks to Dalton Inge, Computer Information Technology teacher at Henderson County High School.

“The trip being all about STEM and what is progressing technology forward is just really cool. Also, offering the trip out so far in advance made it so much more feasible for a wider range of kids to go. It started to be planned almost two years before the trip itself, so that let parents make payments in increments and allowed

families to save to be able to send their kids on the trip of a lifetime. I really hope to offer the trip again in a few years,” stated Dalton.

THE TRIP BEGINS!

The trip began with over 28 hours of straight travel. It was a guarantee that everyone was exhausted by the time we arrived in the Narita Airport, but we managed to make it safe and sound and met our wonderful tour guide named Yoshi, who made the trip even more special for us. Yoshi guided us from the airport to our hotel and helped us all find somewhere good to eat before crashing after the long day.

While some found familiarity and comfort in the Burger King and the 7/11 convenience store down the road from the hotel, others branched off into food unknown, exploring the local ramen and sushi shops and hoping they had English menus. Many students used their cell

phones and Google translate to figure out the Japanese menus while others looked at the pictures and hoped for the best. Regardless of the choice they made for dinner, the exhausted

group returned early to the hotel for a much needed night of sleep before the real adventure began.

THE FIRST FULL DAY

The next morning, we awoke bright and early to eat a breakfast of rice, noodles, fried chicken, French fries, and many other interesting foods. The hotel staff tried to be very accommodating to our American palettes, which for some was much appreciated. Our private tour bus picked us up, and from there we set off. Local senior Ben Frederick recounts how his first day went: “On the first day after the flight,

I was incredibly excited to begin seeing Tokyo and start our tour. The first day of the tour came with a trip to the Shibuya Station, The Tokyo Skytree, and lastly a hotpot style dinner. The Shibuya Station was incredible, and clearly well designed, varying strongly from the architectural style in America, and more suited to the need to build structures for so many people passing through Japan’s largest city. I was impressed by Japan’s accommodations for foreigners and people with disabilities at the station. The Skytree was incredible, and although I’m afraid of heights, I did stand on the glass floor for a picture. Lastly, the hotpot dinner was a lot of fun, and I got to serve as my table’s assigned cook. I even got one of my picky friends to try some Japanese food he wouldn’t have before. In all it was an incredible day and a great start to the trip!”

A PACKED SCHEDULE

The days that followed were filled with science museums, disaster prevention parks and simulations, and incredible views of the city and Mt. Fuji. We viewed and interacted with incredible robotics, including the artificial limb technology found at CyberDyne Studios and the reactive therapy seals named Paro that responded to touch and voice. Some of the group members even experienced earthquake simulators that shook them around the room.

By the time we arrived back at the hotel at the end of each evening, everyone was exhausted, but some pushed themselves further to get as much out of Tokyo as they possibly could. Many students found joy in visiting the Akihabara prefecture, a part of the city known as the anime and video game hub. You could find them playing rhythm games, winning figures and stuffed video game characters out of claw machines, and buying trinkets to take home for themselves and their families. This district was definitely where we spent the most time and it feels like we barely got to explore any of it. Marc Carter, a recent

Henderson County High School graduate, found this part of town to be incredibly fascinating:

“I thought that Akihabara was very intriguing. I heard a lot about what it looked like and was looking forward to seeing it. I wasn’t disappointed either; several of us traveled together to the district days before we were scheduled to visit. We saw it all at night and it was a completely different experience. They call Akihabara the electric town due to all the lights and it was amazing to see it all at night. It was also very nice to see so much pop culture concentrated in one place, such as merchandise for popular games and shows.”

FAVORITE PARTS OF THE TRIP

With the wide variety of activities and places we saw in Japan, it is definitely hard to choose a favorite. Below are the favorite parts of some of the students who went on the trip:

“TeamLab Planets Tokyo had to be my absolute favorite activity. For some context, I process senses a little bit differently and more intensely than others, so this was an amazing experience. All the lights, water, and projections were so nice to look at and touch, and there was a room where flowers would rise and fall from the ceiling. We got to lay in that room for about 10 minutes, and by the end, I was tearing up from how relaxed I felt in that moment,” said Zavor Murphy, local high school junior.

“One of my favorite parts of the trip was going to Karaoke. While I don’t think I can sing all that well, it was fun to see everyone having a great time and Yoshi was amazing singing Bohemian Rhapsody,” recounted Marc Carter.

Penn Raleigh, high school senior, had similar thoughts. “My favorite part of the trip was doing karaoke with Yoshi and going with the group that was going to Akihabara to play claw machines was a blast.”

Ben Frederick had more of a personal favorite from an adventure all his own: “My favorite part of the trip was when I was able to take a slight journey to find the only souvenir I had planned on purchasing in Japan, a Yanagiba. While working at Koi: Asian Fusion, I found the knives of the sushi chefs interesting, and I had asked about them while I worked there.” Ben was able to find a special knife shop after asking the workers at our sushi class about where to find this type of knife. The experience of looking for the knife turned out to be his favorite because of the kindness of the locals he met. “It was really special to get to interact with people along the way and I really got a sense of what the

different areas of Tokyo are like while looking around.”

THE HEARTBREAKING GOODBYE

Getting on the bus for the final time was hard for us all, although we were ready to go home to see our families. This trip was filled with constant entertainment and we learned so much about not only Japan and its culture, but also about the coming technologies that the rest of the world has yet to see. When asked if they would like to return one day, these trip-goers had similar responses:

“Most definitely.” -Zavor Murphy

“Yes, I would love to.” -Marc Carter

“I would love to return to Japan someday.” -Ben Frederick

“I plan on going back as soon as I can.” -Penn Raleigh

If you plan on going to Japan yourself, Penn has some advice: “If you ever decide to go to Japan and play claw machines, make sure that you have a plan for bringing home as well as storing or selling any figures you don’t want.”

Overall, our trip was amazing in ways we could have only dreamed before going. Everyone who went was touched by the city of Tokyo and its beauty, and we all can’t wait to go back one day. Until next time, Japan! HF

KAYCEE INGE has lived in Henderson her entire life and plans to keep it that way. She loves animals and movies, and enjoys drawing with charcoal and working on local political campaigns in her spare time.

THE THIRD ANNUAL Pumpkin & Pickle Festival

Hot off the heels of the successful Strawberry Festival, The Cottage Farm Stand & Baking Co. is gearing up for the third annual Pumpkin & Pickle Festival on October 21st and 22nd from 9am to 4pm each day.

“I always look forward to fall weather when the days begin to cool and the pumpkin patch is full. I know fall is here,” said Marlene Knight, owner of The Cottage. “Pickling vegetables is one of my favorite things to do. My plan is to always have enough pickles on hand to get me through the winter, but they never last that long in my house,” Knight says with a laugh. “We try to keep The Cottage stocked with pickled beets, Kosher dill pickles, pickled okra, bread & butter, hot & spicy —you name it and we pickle it.”

The festival will offer pumpkin treats & all things pickled for every palette. There will be fried pickles, pickle Kentucky Kolache, pickle tater tots, pickle popcorn, pumpkin & pickle shaped desserts, slushies and more. “We like to let our imagination run wild. The festival is only two days long so we want to pack as much fun with two fan favorites as we can into this event,” Knight said.

There will be 10+ food trucks. “I’m excited to be able to offer even more food options at this event. The Cottage will be open and serving our customer’s favorites, but we hope you’ll get to taste something new too,” Knight said.

Visitors may browse the pumpkin patch and enjoy a free petting zoo on the farm. The corn maze includes a game associated with 10 mailboxes hidden in the maze. A prize is awarded at the end. It’s $5.00 per person. Children under 2 are free.

Over 100 vendors will be setting up shop. You’ll find everything from jewelry to clothing to houseware. Anyone interested in renting a booth should contact Marlene via email at marleneknightevents@gmail or send a message via The Cottage Facebook page.

New this year will be a contest with prizes awarded for the most voted for pickle or pumpkin themed outfits for adults, children or a family group of 3 or more. Entry details may be found on the Cottage Facebook page @cottagehwy56 HF

TIPS FOR PLANTING A fall garden

Written by Mandy Sue Glaser

Fall is a great time to busy yourself in the garden and yard. Planting a fall vegetable garden, spring blooming bulbs, cool season annual flower seeds, biannual flower seeds, herbs, perennials, trees and shrubs, and mulching, composting and fertilizing are just several things you can take advantage of during the cooler weather.

GETTING THE SOIL PREPPED

When beginning a fall vegetable garden, your first step will be preparing the soil. At our farm, Rain’R Shine, we focus on soil health so we don’t usually till. Instead, we have permanent beds and rows that are created by tarping the grass and adding layers of compost as topsoil once the tarp is removed. This involves leaving a silage tarp on the area you plan to garden for six

weeks in the summer and even longer in other seasons. Once the grass is dead you remove the tarp and rake up the remaining debris. However, tilling is an option, especially if this is the first time you are breaking ground. For established spring gardens, clearing out spring vegetables and weeds will be your first step. Fertilizing and composting will be the last step before planting your seeds and transplants. I can’t emphasize enough the importance and impact the addition of compost can have on your plants. It is a step I wouldn’t leave out! We mix it in and use it as mulch. There are many local resources for getting great compost. This year we tried Jerry O’Bryan’s Pig Farm in Owensboro, whose compost is acceptable for organic crop production.

ROOTS AND GREENS ARE GREAT FALL CROPS

First, we can talk about carrots because they are somewhat more complicated to grow. Dark, deep, soft soil is the dirt you want to see in your garden. Compacted ground is something to avoid, so building your soil up with compost is a must for most plants, but so important for carrots. When harvesting carrots you will be very thankful for the deep loose soil. Once seeded, carrots need to stay moist until they germinate. One trick to help with the moisture is to tarp them until they sprout. However, with this method you must pay very close attention and remove the tarp as soon as they sprout, or you may end up killing your plants. Once sprouted, the seedlings will need to be watered often. Sometimes an

additional light watering in the afternoon can be helpful to cool them down from the midday summer heat. Hoops can be made from pvc pipes or spring wires, and covered with shade cloth to also keep the summer heat at bay.

Radishes are another root I’d like to mention because they are so easy.

Once the soil is prepared, I really like broadcasting the seeds, and lightly raking and tamping the seeds into the soil with a garden rake. It’s as easy as that! The seeds will need to stay moist while they germinate and are young plants. Radishes will also benefit from a light additional watering during the hot days at the end of summer.

Lettuce and greens are a plant to consider in your fall garden. Leaf lettuce mixes can be planted like radishes, by broadcasting the seeds and tamping them into the soil with a garden rake. At our farm, we don’t usually broadcast seeds due to the strategic system we use for market gardening, but it works great on a small scale in a home garden. Lettuce can benefit from the use of shade clothes on small caterpillar tunnels made with pvc or spring wire. Watering in the morning keeps fungus at bay, but remember a light midday sprinkle can cool greens off during hot sunny days just like your roots.

Head lettuce is an additional option. If you aren’t buying transplants, you may need to start seeds in trays by late August before they can be transplanted into your garden. We have achieved this by germinating the seeds in trays in the shade during the day and placing them under a plant light at night, or starting indoors with a plant light. If you don’t have a plant light you can try filtered light, but direct sunlight and summer heat can cause lettuce to not have great

germination rates.

When planting seeds follow the guidelines for zone 6b and be sure to follow the seed packets for the planting depth and spacing.

POLLINATION AND HEALTHY ECOSYSTEMS IN YOUR BACKYARD

The last plant I want to mention is the addition of flowers for pollination and a healthy ecosystem. Flowers bring pollinators into your garden, and some even act as trap plants to harmful insects. These aspects will help your vegetables and greens thrive. Zinnias are a great late summer annual. They are easy to plant from seed, and some varieties mature and bloom in as little as 35 days.

IF FALL PLANTING ISN’T AN OPTION

If planting this fall isn’t an option, you can consider prepping your garden for spring by covering the soil with a silage tarp or mulches, such as fall leaves, compost and cardboard, or by planting a cover crop. Fall gardening is an often overlooked opportunity to get another harvest in and to enjoy time outdoors before the Kentucky winter sets in. Good luck and happy planting! HF

MANDY SUE GLASER is a local farmer, photographer, illustrator and author at Rain’R Shine Farm and Wild WILD light Photography. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and pets, and being part of the community of Henderson, Kentucky. She believes in finding ways to improve her surroundings and the environment she is a part of, and embraces the idea of “leaving things better than how we find them.”

The Book Nook

All of these books are available for check out at the Henderson County Public Library.

Finn’s Fun Trucks: Farm Fleet

By: Finn Coyle

Finn loves trucks! In this book, Finn features some of his favorite farm machines, like a tractor and a harvester, and with the help of Sandy the farmer explains the important job each one has on the farm.

Driving My Tractor

By: Jan Dobbins

Follows a farmer through his very busy day as he drives his tractor and transport heavy loads in the attached trailer, including fifteen friendly animals. Includes information on crops and the different vehicles that farmers use.

Pig and Pug

By: Laura Marchesani and Zenaides A. Medina Jr.

Pig lives on a farm with lots of other animals. All the animals have friends, but Pig does not. One day a new animal comes to the farm. Pug has a curly tail like Pig. Pug plays in the mud like Pig. Pug even snorts like Pig. Pug is not a pig, but maybe, just maybe, Pig and Pug can be friends!

Aaron Loves Apples and Pumpkins

By: P.D. Eastman

As Aaron the Alligator’s thoughts turn to apples, pumpkins, football, and . . . ghosts, his usual mishaps occur while playing outdoors with his friends. Young readers will giggle along as they tackle the simple words and sentences all on their own.

Logan’s Greenhouse

By: JaNay Brown-Wood

Logan searches for carrots in his wheelchair-accessible greenhouse in this vibrant exploration of gardening and healthy eating, from the Where in the Garden? picture book series.

Logan is organizing a pet playdate at his greenhouse for all of his friends, and his treats won’t be the same without his carrots. He’s searched and searched, but his greenhouse is filled with plenty of plants and Logan needs our help to identify them. What do we know about carrots? They’re long, orange, and have bushy leaves at the top-and, wait a moment, is that a carrot? No, that’s a turnip. Where, oh, where could those carrots be? Can you help Logan find them in time for his playdate?

Your Ultimate Fall Bucket List

After a sweltering summer, fall is finally here! Autumn weather and holidays give the opportunity for lots of memory making with family and friends, but if you’re short on ideas for things to do, this fall bucket list is sure to inspire!

Indoor Fall Activities:

›› Carve pumpkins

›› Make homemade caramel apples

›› Host a fall movie night

›› Make apple or pumpkin baked goods

›› Perfect your soup or chili recipe

›› Make a fall bouquet from sunflowers, mums and leaves

›› Decorate your home for fall

›› Open your windows and let the crisp fall air in

›› Light fall candles

›› Create a fall wreath

›› Enjoy warm apple cider

›› Roast pumpkin seeds

›› Bake cookies

›› Enjoy a pumpkin spice latte

›› Eat candy corn

›› Collect and press fall leaves

›› Host or attend a chili cook-off

›› Have a game night and play Clue

›› Attend or host a mystery dinner theater

›› Visit a spooky escape room

Outdoor Fall Activities:

›› Visit a pumpkin patch

›› Plant fall flowers like mums, or tulip bulbs that will bloom in the spring

›› Have a bonfire (complete with s'mores)

›› Take a drive to look at the changing leaves

›› Walk in the woods

›› Attend a football game or tailgate

›› Go apple picking

›› Attend a fall festival

›› Go on a hayride

›› Explore a corn maze

›› Decorate your front porch with bales of hay, corn stalks, pumpkins and mums.

›› Have a fall photo shoot with your loved ones

›› Rake leaves and jump in

›› Play touch football

›› Make a scarecrow

›› Go canoeing or kayaking in the cooler weather

›› Bike ride on a scenic trail like the Greenbelt

›› Go on a picnic

›› Go stargazing and enjoy the earlier sunsets

Halloween Bucket List:

›› Learn the Thriller dance moves

›› Create and listen to a Halloween playlist

›› Go trick-or-treating or hand out treats on Halloween

›› Host a Halloween scavenger hunt

›› Build a Halloween gingerbread house

Thanksgiving Bucket List:

›› Send “thankful for you’ cards to important people in your life

›› Celebrate friendsgiving

›› Watch Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade

›› Create a Thanksgiving craft

›› Black Friday shop

›› Volunteer

JACQUELINE JORDAN RUSSELL is a marketing specialist, freelance writer and photographer. She has a passion for celebrating every day moments and basically leaves a trail of confetti wherever she goes.

Written by Jacqueline Jordan Russell

Giving Thanksgiving Away

Written by Lora Wimsatt

Thanksgiving is the season dedicated to reflecting in a spirit of gratitude on all the blessings of our lives … being thankful for the things we have.

It’s a great idea, and one that really ought not be limited to one day a year.

After all, when you really stop and think about it, most of us have quite a lot for which to be thankful: Health, comfortable homes, loving families, more than enough food to eat, a car that starts every morning, a job that allows us to pay the bills …

But it’s also a pretty good idea, while we’re at it, to be thankful for all the things we DON’T have – and that same list comes into a new light when we look at it from that angle.

Illness; maybe serious illness. Looming eviction, or even homelessness. Dysfunctional or abusive families. Not knowing where the next meal is coming from, or whether there will even

be a next meal. A broken-down car you can’t afford to fix, or one without gas, or no vehicle at all. A job that pays maximum stress but minimum wage, certainly not enough to meet all the financial obligations that are piling up.

The point here is not to heap guilt on anyone for their good fortune. By all means, give thanks and enjoy!

But especially for parents, grandparents or anyone who has a child in their lives, this holiday season opens the door for the kinds of lessons that change lives.

Kids learn what we teach them, and what better thing to teach a child than compassion for others – and being grateful for the means and opportunity to bring joy to another person, especially when done discreetly or even anonymously.

This Thanksgiving season, consider asking your children or grandchildren to list some of the things for which they are thankful,

and then challenge them to think of ways they can share their blessings with others.

Best of all, encourage your child to think of things that are not material possessions. Even the youngest child can comprehend and express appreciation for having a friend, for playing with someone who plays nicely, shares and takes turns. Those are gifts too, and worthy of gratitude, and what a great feeling to treat others in such a way that you know they are thankful to have you as their friend.

Who knows? Thinking of all the things that someone else might not have – a smile, a kind word – and then being the instrument that gives that gift … well, it might turn out that giving Thanksgiving away makes it the best Thanksgiving of all. HF

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

Out & About

7 LOCAL THINGS TO DO this season

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2023 HENDERSON LIONS CLUB ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8 @ 10AM - 4PM

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK {

The Lions Club Arts & Crafts Festival in Henderson, KY features a large variety of arts and crafts and all items from vendors are handmade and one of a kind. This is the perfect time to purchase gifts for the holidays or to just grab lunch from one of the many food trucks and take a stroll around the park. Bring your friends and family for a day of relaxing and to check out some of the most enjoyable artisans and craftspeople showing off their wares. Admission to the festival is free, but there is a $5.00 parking fee for visitors good for the entire day of arrival. Shuttle service provided throughout the park as a courtesy from the Henderson Lions Club. All information for the Arts and Crafts Festival can be found on the Henderson Lions Club website listed below or by emailing hendersoncitylions@gmail.com.

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FIFTH ANNUAL CHILI COOK OFF

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14

@ 11AM - 1PM

DOWNTOWN HENDERSON

COFFEE WITH A COP

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4 @ 7 - 9AM (MCDONALD’S NORTH)

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 @ 7 - 9AM (ANTLER SPECIALTY GOODS)

Throughout the year, officers from the Henderson Police Department will be visiting local businesses and establishments to allow the community to share some coffee with them, ask questions, and be able to put a face and name to the officers which serve in your community.

Don’t miss the event that sells out every year! 1) Order your chili mug online and pick up at the Chamber office – they will have a limited number of chili mugs available on site at the event. Cost is $12. Your mug is your ticket.

2) On October 14th, check in at the Chamber tent to receive your spoon and 1 voting ticket.

3) Sample chili from all of the participating teams. 4) Use your ticket and/or cash to vote for your favorite(s).

5) Shop the Market on Main! While you’re sampling delicious chili, you’ll be raising money for local nonprofits! Every dollar and ticket placed in each team’s jar will be donated to a non-profit of their choosing. Mugs will be available for preorder mid-late September.

CAMPGROUND HALLOWEEN

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13

&

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK

Book your campsite, get your costumes ready and pull out your spookiest decorations–you won’t want to miss this pre-holiday fun! Contests, magic show, trick-or-treating, and MORE FREE activities will take place throughout the weekend. This event is for campground guests only, so reserve your site before they’re gone. Go to ReserveAmerica.com today!

ROAD TO THE RODEO

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 @ 5PM

HENDERSON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

food, games, and fun for the whole family. Events include Extreme Trail, Bash N’ Splash, Texas 8, Dueling Keyhole, Calf Roping, Freestyle, Pole Bending, Flag Racing, and Barrel Racing.

Join

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ART HOP

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 @ 5 - 9PM

DOWNTOWN HENDERSON {

7

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 @ 5:30 - 11PM

FARMER & FRENCHMAN WINERY {

Join the annual “Diamonds and Denim” Gala to benefit Healing Reins of Kentucky, Inc. Begin your evening with appetizers and drinks during their social cocktail hour, from 5:30-6:30. Enjoy a delicious dinner at Farmer and Frenchman and an entertaining live auction. Then dancing starts at 8:15pm.

Special guest speakers include Coach Kermit Davis, head coach for the Ole Miss Rebels from 2018 to 2023. Bid on our exciting live auction items that include a PGA Championship trip, Land Rover Excursion, Kentucky Castle stays, UK Basketball and Football tickets, exciting trips and more! All proceeds benefit our local 501c3 non-profit Healing Reins of Kentucky, Inc. and fund several programs of Equine Assisted Services. For more information, please call 270-854-3150.

KIDS meal deals

*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation. Restaurants, please contact lyndi@ tannerpublishing.com with additions or corrections.

SUNDAY

Tumbleweed

1 free kids meal for every adult entree

MONDAY

Rookies Sports Bar & Grill

Kids under 8 eat free with purchase of adult entree from 4-10pm (Dine-In Only)

TUESDAY

Fazoli’s

.99 kids meal with adult purchase 5-8pm

Wings Etc.

Kids eat free 5-8 with purchase of adult entree

SATURDAY

Tacoholics

1 free kids meal per adult entree (dine in ONLY)

Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Free kids meal with adult meal purchase.

ONGOING

Shoney’s Kids under 4 eat free with adult purchase.

Summer ADVENTURES

Follow Henderson Family on Facebook to submit your photos!

Summer ADVENTURES

Follow Henderson Family on Facebook to submit your photos!

Summer ADVENTURES

Follow Henderson Family on Facebook to submit your photos!