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may // june 2018
PUBLISHER
Jason Tanner jason@tannerpublishing.com
from the editor Snow in April, flooding in February, a boil advisory, 10 missed school days… it’s been a weird start to 2018. I think I speak on behalf of all Owensboro parents when I say, summer can’t come soon enough! Last year I created a summer bucket list for the kids and I and it was a huge success! I don’t know that we completed every item, but we came pretty close. And it was a great guide for me to plan some summer fun, rather than stress each day on how to beat the boredom of a then 5- and 2-year-old. This year we created 32 Things to do Over Summer Break — our list of 32 events or ideas that are sure to keep your family busy, but most importantly entertained and making memories together. We included events in Owensboro like the BBQ Fest and ROMP, but also things that are going on just a short drive from Owensboro, like Lincoln Pioneer Village, Lu-Ray Park & Amphitheater in Central City, and the Strawberry Festival in Beaver Dam. Need some summer fun ideas that don’t require a drive or much money? We’ve got you covered there too! We included a lemonade recipe, new ideas for water balloon games and how to turn your backyard into a slip and slide. This season also brings us Mother’s and Father’s Day, two celebrations that we take pretty seriously here at Owensboro Parent. So much so, that we wanted to recognize three moms and three dads from Owensboro that we feel are doing a SUPER job. After countless nominations, we selected our six SUPER parents and are excited to feature them in this month’s issue.
EDITOR
Ashley Sorce ashley@tannerpublishing.com AD SALES
Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com
Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com LAYOUT & DESIGN
Jamie Alexander Andrea Roberson CONTRIBUTORS
Jamie Alexander Katie Albers Christina Dalton Jamie Roby Johnson Danny May Dr. Shanna McGinnis Taryn Norris Ashley Sorce Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt COVER PHOTO
Jamie Alexander Wardrobe provided by Fairy Dust Entertainment & Bella Regazza Boutique Online www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/owensboroparent Offline Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503
Miriam, Danielle, Christy, Joshua, Chris and Jerry—your nominations spoke for themselves. You are loved, you are deserving, you are truly SUPER! We were honored to feature you in Owensboro Parent. Happy summer, Owensboro! Soak up the sun, make some memories, and don’t forget about Mom and Dad this season!
Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5416 Subscribe Delivery of Owensboro Parent is available by visiting owensboroliving.com/subscribe Advertise Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise.
TANNER PUBLISHING CO.
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may // june 2018 FAMILY LIFE
summer dreams [8] parental control [10] CO MMUNIT Y
student spotlight [15] summer photos from facebook [16] stand up against child abuse [22] first in his field [24] SUPE R MO MS & DADS
super moms & dads contest winners [34] why is your mom or dad super? [33] a super easy breakfast [35] design your own superparent [40]
[42] what mom really wants for mother’s day [45] gift guide [48] 3 2 T H I N G S TO D O OV E R special advertising section
SU MME R B R E A K
DISCOV E R
[70] puppy 101: how to care for a puppy [75] kids on campus [78] vitamins: who needs them? [82] kids eat free list [84] may/june calendar
[24]
[58]
[70]
[38] [64]
[16]
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, dreams .
summer { by: lora wimsatt }
I
t must be one of those mysteries of time, space and
and every moment.
quantum physics, but for an area that supposedly
Flip through the pages of this magazine to learn about
enjoys four seasons a year, somehow winter seems to last
all kinds of special events taking place throughout the
forever and summer takes forever to arrive in Owensboro/
summer; surely there is something that was scheduled
Daviess County.
specifically with you in mind. The library, the art
That’s a lot of “forevers” to pack into 365 days.
museum, youth dance and theatre groups, the science
Kids and parents alike have bemoaned the fact that
and history museum—they are among those who have
numerous snow days, flood days and the surprise water
exciting programs and theme weeks and interesting
main break day extended the school year to the very far
activities for kids sprinkled across these summer month
edge of May; the first day of June will be the first day of
calendar pages.
summer vacation for many students this year, and not a
moment too soon.
youth sports opportunities available here—everything
from baseball to soap box derby.
All of June, all of July and a week of August might
And that doesn’t even begin to count the zillions of
sound like a long time; taken on a day-by-day basis,
perhaps it is.
with all kinds of “learn and do” activities ranging the full
But oh, when you consider this brief season on the
spectrum from arts to athletics to academics disguised as
scale of eternity, it passes in the blink of an eye.
fun.
All the more reason, then, to embrace and enjoy each
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So it’s no wonder that summer flies by, packed as it is
But somewhere along the way… step back from the www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar, the schedule, the to-do list, the be-here-go-
there list.
and go scrounging through the toters lining your street
in the cool of early morning, and come home dragging
Plan nothing—on purpose. That’s when everything
That’s when you might get up early on garbage day
happens.
a pile of miscellaneous but interesting junk – maybe a
That’s when you might hop on your bike and ride
broken lawn mower, maybe something your dad tells you
down the big hill with no hands for the very first time.
is a VCR, maybe a pile of discarded building materials—
That’s when you might get bored enough to go
and you spend the rest of the summer building and
exploring your very own basement, where you find a
inventing and learning about something that—who
dust-covered book that had belonged to your parents
knows?—might even be the inspiration for your future
and discover the adventures of the Hardy Boys or Nancy
career.
Drew.
That’s when you and the other kids that live on your
back in the grass and watch the clouds go by… and in
street might find yourselves outdoors at the same time
your imagination, perhaps for the first time in your life,
on the same day. You’ve seen them before; you might
you begin the grasp how awesome it is to live forever, all
even ride the school bus together, but you’ve never really
in the space of one childhood summer.
Or maybe you just do nothing at all but lie on your
OP
talked to them. That’s when you find out you share the same interests, maybe in that quirky little hobby you thought nobody else around here even knows about or would ever care about, and a lifelong friendship is born.
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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 twin boys, age 9, and I have a question about how I should handle their grandparents. I feel like both sets of grandparents spoil the boys and it is difficult to get them to follow the rules that my husband and I have set. It makes life harder when the boys are there because they act up and they do not listen. I always seem to hear, “They were fine until you got here!” I love them and I do not want to hurt their feelings. What can I do?
}
A: I think everyone has had
situation involves give and take on
this problem and not just with
both sides. Grandparents love to
grandparents. It could come from
spoil their grandchildren. I think
teachers, friends and babysitters
that the love between a grandparent
too. There is a magical force in the
and a grandchild is so unique
universe that sometimes turns our
and different than it is between
children into angels when we are
a parent and child. I think it is so
not around. LOL! I have personally
important for children to know
heard this same sentence from my
their grandparents, respect them
own mother on many an occasion.
and love them. However, at the
It’s as if I no more than pull into
same time, there has to be a level
the driveway and a signal goes off
of respect between you and your
to alert my child it’s time act like
parents as well. I would say pick
a crazy person.
I do not know
your battles wisely but also let
that I have a quick fix or solution
them spoil them a little. Find a nice
for you on this particular issue. I
balance.
would suggest that it really helps being on the same page with the
Q: My 3-year-old whines constantly.
grandparents. The discipline you
It drives me crazy. Do you have
use needs to be universal. If you
any tips to stop the whining?
don’t want your child to have sweets or candy, then make sure that they
A: Whining to a parent is like nails
know what your rules are and how
on a chalkboard. It grates on the
important they are to you. Let
nerves. Children this young think
them know ahead of time
that whining is the way to get what
what
consequences
they want and I often think they do
there might be if
not even realize they are doing it. It
they not
choose follow
to
reminds me of my own child when
your
she says, “But I said I was sorry!”
rules. And I have
Thinking this is the magic answer
heard from several
to all her problems and it fixes
parents
everything.
before
There are options to
that simply say, the
whining such as putting the child in
grandparents
will
time out, a little swat on the bottom,
not abide by the
taking away a toy or just ignoring
rules that they
their request. But most of the time,
want to be
I do not think that these options
enforced.
are very helpful. My suggestion
I think
is you can teach your children the
that
difference between a whiney voice
this
and a big voice.
You can model
the difference for them and make a
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game of it. In your best whiney voice,
future and it will help him make friends.
watching your kid excel at a sporting
you can say, “But mommy…I want it
Should I push him more or let it go?
event. We are filled with pride.
now! Pleeezzzzzzzz!!!!!” Then you can
I don’t think you should push him. I
say, “Mommy, may I please have this?”
A: Every parent always wants the best
think if he really wants to play a sport,
Another technique is to go deaf when
for their kids. We think that if they
they whine. You can tell them that
are on the basketball team then, it will
he will tell you. However, at the same
you only hear children that use their
somehow help them wade the unknown
big voice and not the little squeaky,
waters that is middle school. I think
whiney one. And if this continues, you
we all do this if we have kids. We want
can become a broken record and repeat
them to have many friends and we want
over and over, “Why can’t I hear you?”
them to be involved in lots of activities.
Eventually they will understand that
It is funny because I was just thinking
you only listen to children who use their
about this situation the other day.
big voices.
Owensboro is a sports town. And I think when we have kids, our lives overlap to
Q: My son is 11 and he will be in middle
what they have going on. But some kids
school this fall. I have highly encouraged
are just not interested in sport types of
him to try out for basketball, choir or
activities. And for us as parents, this is
any extracurricular activity. He says he
a hard pill to swallow because as hectic
is not interested and he might do it next
and crazy as it can get, we love all those
year. I’m thinking he needs this for his
activities. There is nothing better than
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time, you know your child best. If he is the type of kid that needs the extra encouragement, then that is what you should do. Encourage, but probably not force him into it. I know it is hard to sit back and let them wade the waters, but it’s part of growing up. And I think once your child has the lay of the land, his own interests will shine through. Best of luck!
OP
Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is a Family Resource Center Coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.
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{ paid advertorial }
ANDREW JOHNSON for district court judge
A
ndrew Johnson’s daily routine as a private practice attorney in Owensboro has changed a great deal since he first came home to practice law nearly 15 years ago. “I’ve changed—having become a husband and father,” he says, “and the practice of law has changed—from a technical standpoint and as far as the legal needs of Owensboro and Daviess County.” As a partner at Gordon Law Offices, Johnson practices business law, litigation, criminal, and family law. He says that though family law was not necessarily where he envisioned himself when he was just starting out, his work in the area has become a source of great pride and satisfaction. “Every case has a face. Family law affects people’s lives. No matter how old or how young, every life has value—no matter how different it looks from my life or what the perceived norm is,” says Johnson. “Getting the people of our community the help and resolutions they need, makes for a happier, healthier community, and that benefits everyone.” As an active member and past President of the Daviess County Bar Association, Johnson helped write the current circuit and family court rules. “Our court system has attempted change, and has made improvements,” he says, “but it simply hasn’t changed as fast as society has.” Johnson says he is campaigning for District Judge to combat our community’s challenges in a way that is mindful of the current financial shortages Owensboro-Daviess County faces. According to the National Center for State Courts report, Daviess County’s three district judges work a .79 workload. And our only Family Court Judge has a 1.51 www.OwensboroParent.com
workload. Several proposals—including judicial redistricting and an additional, temporary Family Court judge—have been discussed, but Johnson says the answer does not lie in costly bureaucracy. “I am dedicated to a fiscally smart resolution to this need,” he says. “There’s no magic wand or silver bullet coming out of Frankfort. This is Daviess County’s problem and it’s up to us to solve it.” Andrew says as a kid he was taught the importance of rolling up your sleeves and doing whatever it takes to get the job done. He promises if elected that is his number one pledge: “Day one I will make sure our children’s safety and well-being is first on my list. I will have a 100% workload.”
Johnson’s desire to help the community he grew up in,
and the one his children are growing up in, extends beyond the courtroom. He is a deacon at First Christian Church, and serves on the board. As an Eagle Scout, he served on the Shawnee Trail Council and the Eagle Board of Review. Most recently, he served as Chairman of the Owensboro Public Schools Foundation for Excellence. In the spring, you’ll find him watching three to four baseball games a week at Southern Little League. An eternal optimist, he is also a Miami Dolphins fan.
Andrew appreciates that leaders of our state are looking
for a possible temporary solution to this problem, but he is campaigning on the fact there is a better, more fiscally conservative solution: “I’m dedicated to a fiscally smart resolution to Daviess County’s safety and well being of its citizens—our kids included.”
OP
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student spotlight brought to you by Owensboro Community & Technical College
“
Lydia Lambert, junior at Trinity High School, not only is an exceptional student, but giving of her talent. She volunteers her time twice a week to St. Mary of the Woods School, serving as the middle school academic team assistant coach. Lydia also serves at Dream Riders of Kentucky and was recently accepted as a 2018 Governor’s Scholar. It says so much about Lydia’s character that she is willing to give up her free time to help others. -Mr. Morris, Assistantant Principal of Trinity High School
“
Hattie Martin, senior at Apollo High School, is a fiery kid who wants to make a difference! She is aware of the needs of others in a way that is rare among teenagers. Just a few days ago, she approached me about the best way to help a friend who had been kicked out of her house in a way that maintained the student’s dignity and did not seem like charity. She loves Jesus and wants to love people well. Hattie is also a talented speaker who will light up a room when handed a microphone! She is a leader that is worth following. I expect great things from her, as I have seen glimpses of it already. -Ashley Dillbeck, AHS counselor
”
”
“
I met Gavin Basham, senior at Daviess County High School, when I had him in U.S. History class. From the first time I met him, I knew he was going to be a bright spot in my classroom. Every single day, Gavin was full of optimism, enthusiasm, and COMPLIMENTS. He is, without a doubt, the kindest student that I have ever met and there is no hiding it! Even since I’ve been his teacher, Gavin goes out of his way to come by and say something nice to me whenever he gets the chance. Whether in the hallway interacting with his peers or sitting in class, Gavin brings a positive energy and genuine kindness to every person at Daviess County High School. I’m happy to know him. -Trey Pippin, DCHS College and Career Readiness Coach
“
Kelly Hayden, senior at Owensboro Catholic High School has been All-State band for OCHS for two years in a row. She is only the third student ever to be named to All-State band in the history of the school. Kelly is very involved in the OCHS band, but her musical abilities go well beyond the band program. She is an outstanding singer and musician, and leads the choral musicians for OCHS weekly Masses and also volunteers her time for any outside activities that require music. Kelly is not only a good student but a great role model at OCHS. She is a servant leader and never expects or seeks any recognition but leads by example. -Principal Gates Settle
”
”
“
Nick Brake, senior at Owensboro High School, is the eternal sunshine for our school. No matter what, including a season ending-injury, Nick is always found proclaiming the bright side of things. He is the A-1 promoter of all clubs, teams, and performing groups at OHS. He is the OHS Duracell Bunny whose engine never quits. Even on his darkest day last fall when he found out that he had suffered a soccer and football season ending injury to his spine, he was at soccer practice proclaiming to the team how we would overcome our loss of his talents and how the team needed to regroup and move on. He was on the soccer sideline for our last season home game just hours after reconstructive surgery to his spine in Nashville! He leads our morning announcements every day with great enthusiasm and extolls every teams’ bright shining moments. -Dale Poole, OHS soccer coach
”
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summer Photos
from facebook
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summer Photos
from facebook
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{ paid advertorial }
food, fellas, and fundraising 100
Men Who Cook is Old National Bank’s signature fundraising event since 2009, relying heavily on the volunteer efforts of their employees - and the collaborative spirit of the communities they serve. The event debuted in Owensboro in 2015. Old National holds the trademark for this event, which has raised over $5.6 million for charities within the Old National footprint. In order to broaden the impact of this event, Old National decided to open it up to other local non-profits. The agencies had to go through an application process where the strength and stability of the organization as well as its administration and board was reviewed. Other areas that were considered were the programs the agency offered and the impact they have on the community. The Owensboro Family YMCA was selected through that process as the co-beneficiary of this year’s event, along with Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club. The 2018 100 Men Who Cook will be held on June 16 at the Owensboro Convention Center from 6 – 10 p.m. Anyone who loves food, people and a fun atmosphere and has a heart for helping this community is welcome to attend. The idea behind 100 Men Who Cook is simple. Local businessmen and male community members set up a booth and serve their favorite appetizer, side dish, entrée or dessert. But these chefs are in it to win it, collecting “tips” as another fun way to raise money. The chefs who raise the most tips in each food category will win a Top Chef award and bragging rights until the next year. There’s even an award for best decorated station. There’s nothing wrong with a little friendly competition, right? According to Old National Bank branch manager,
Old National is the presenting sponsor along with our other event sponsors Mizkan, Titan Contracting, Hartz Contracting, Ashley Furniture Homestore, Kentucky Legend, American Patriot Getaways, Jagoe Homes and Evergreen / Weedman. www.OwensboroParent.com
Sarah O’Bryan, there have been many fun memories from previous events. “The first year we had a chef who built a mocked up Ms. Pac Man machine it was PHOTO BY TAYLOR–WEST awesome!” Sarah said. “We also had a chef make a significant, although slow, entrance one year. He was in a giant Chewbacca costume on stilts. Another chef served chicken wings dressed in full chicken costume! Last year Harry and Lloyd from Dumb and Dumber made an appearance. They spent more time taking photos with others than they did in their booth!”
And while this may be a fun event for both chefs and
guests, serious fundraising is taking place. Last year 100 Men Who Cook raised $116,000. The goal for this year is $165,000. This single event will help fund scholarships for day and summer camps, swim lessons and memberships at the YMCA to help families get healthy together. At the Boys and Girls Club, it will provide a safe and fun place for kids after school and in the summer where they can get their schoolwork completed and then build friendships and life skills that are priceless.
Old National Bank and the YMCA encourage you to
bring your friends, bring your families – bring everybody down to the Convention Center on June 16 and be a part of the celebration! Go online to owensboro100menwhocook. com between now and June 15 and donate to your favorite chef. You can purchase your ahead of time by emailing sarah.o’bryan@oldnational.com or calling Sarah O’Bryan at 270-691-2022. Special thanks to the 100+ generous chefs who donate of their time, talent and treasure are the “piece de resistance” – they make the event remarkable, coming together to strengthen valuable programs in their hometown. May // June 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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community
PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
stand up against child abuse { by: taryn norris }
I
n 2017, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services determined that 3,295 children were victims of child abuse or neglect in the 15 county region that encompasses the counties surrounding Owensboro and Bowling Green. Peaking at the highest number in western Kentucky history, the number of children in foster care for our region currently exceeds 1,000 and continues to rise. That’s 4,295 children within 100 miles from our community that are either suffering from mental, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or displacement from their homes. April is Child Abuse Awareness Month nationwide. Owensboro makes its voice heard in speaking out for child abuse awareness with its annual STAND Against Child Abuse event. Through a partnership with GRADD’S Community Collaboration for Children Regional Network (CCC) and the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), the STAND reached more than 1,000 families at this year’s event,
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held on April 12 on the south lawn of Kentucky Wesleyan College. The STAND is an effective, powerful way that local organizations, businesses, churches, and other community partners unite to provide awareness and education about child abuse to the public as well as provide resources to families who need emotional or physical assistance. Organizations like the Daviess County Public Library, Sunrise Children’s Services, Owensboro Police Department, and Building Stronger Families set up booths, conducted family activities, and provided valuable information and useful resources to both assist and strengthen families. The Prevent Child Abuse America organization states that “preventing child abuse and neglect starts with giving parents the support they need, so they can be the best moms and dads they can be. When parents get support, families are more self-sufficient and kids do better in school.” (Check out preventchildabuse.org/great-childhoods-2018/ for more tips and resources on #GreatChildhoods) www.OwensboroParent.com
Michelle Baize, Clinical Associate for Child Protective Services, said that whether families are struggling with issues ranging from substance abuse or childcare, the variety of booths provided gives families many options to receive assistance. “We want to educate the public on what to do if they suspect a child is being abused or neglected,” she said. “In the past, the STAND event was just standing along Frederica Street holding signs. But, we wanted to make it more meaningful, educational, and kid-friendly. So, we brought in community partners to provide resources to families.” Kristy Clark, LSW and Lead Case Manager for the CCC, said that “The STAND is a one-stop shop for families that provides fun at the same time. I’ve had families and community partners come to me later that have been referred from this event….by getting a pamphlet and a contact, families are able to connect with organizations like Building Stronger Families, which is an in-home service we provide.” Building Stronger Families is a child abuse prevention program that teaches communication skills and discipline techniques through home visits with families. “If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, don’t just keep it to yourself,” Michelle implores. “Please tell someone, report it to our agency, or contact law enforcement, even if you don’t know for sure. It’s always better just to make a call.” To make that call to the Child Abuse Hotline, dial
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1-877-KYSAFE-1. Contacting local law enforcement agencies is also a viable way to report suspected abuse. Another crucial way that the community can help prevent child abuse or neglect is by becoming foster parents. Jodi McCarty, Independent Living Specialist from Sunrise Children’s Services, says that there are many agencies in the Owensboro area that both assist and train potential foster parents. These agencies include NECCO, Uspiritus, Sunrise Children’s Services, and Benchmark. There are so many nights where the social workers are having to stay in the office with children or teens who have been taken out of their homes, because we don’t have enough foster parents,” says Michelle. Donations to private agencies, food banks, or local shelters are also ways to support these children and teenagers. Items like hygiene products, gently used toys, food, clothing, etc. are all welcomed and can be used by the agencies to provide comfort and sustenance to these needy children. If you have any questions about the STAND or would like more information about the resources listed here, please contact Kristy Clark at kristyclark@gradd.com or 270-9264433 ext. 1381. OP
Taryn Norris is married to Andy and lives in a historic home downtown where their two crazy cats run rampant. Taryn does programs for children at the Daviess County Public Library and loves to travel when she’s not writing or taking graduate classes.
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community
first
in his
field { by: danny may }
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O
PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
wensboro Parent is always on the lookout for stories of local kids doing amazing things. So when we heard there was a Daviess County High School student starting his own business as a first-generation farmer, we had to meet him! With threatening gray clouds on the horizon from a strong east wind, I pull into a gravel driveway at the eastern edge of Daviess County to join 18-year-old farmer Isaac Carmon as he is about to feed his 28 head of cattle, tag the two calves that were just born this morning, and check on the rest of the herd before the rain comes. Hopefully. “This may be a little muddy,” he says, ear tagger in hand, as we walk across the field to the back pasture where the hours-old calves are standing amongst their mommas. “I noticed them this morning but haven’t got a chance to get back here yet.” That’s because Isaac is still in school; a senior at Daviess County High School where he’s taking dualcredit classes through Owensboro Community & Technical College on pace to graduate with an associate’s degree in agriculture in another year. Now in his last semester of high school, he only has classes at OCTC on Tuesdays and Thursdays so he can work Monday, Wednesday, Friday. We scheduled this interview as soon as Isaac could get to the farm after school, around 4 p.m. Carmon approaches the first calf slowly under the watchful eye of the momma cow, a brown and white Hereford. Herefords are docile, I learn later. They’re good with people and easier to work with than other breeds. In one smooth and calculated motion, Isaac scoops the calf up with both arms, gently lowers it onto the ground, and attaches the ear tag with the clamping tool. It never makes a sound. “I don’t want to let it up too fast,” Isaac says, lifting the calf to find its footing while still supporting it with one hand on its back and one hand under the ribcage. “If it gets spooked, it might take off running and never stop.” This first calf is a heifer. The ear tag reads “S” for spring, and “220” to match the momma’s tag number, followed by a “3” because it’s the third calf of the year. After repeating the entire process with the second calf, he checks to find that one is a baby bull. This all seems second nature to Carmon because he already has 10 years experience raising cattle. Isaac got his start by purchasing his first calf through the 4H
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FFA feeder calf program as an 8 year-old boy and he’s been buying and selling cattle ever since. Before he was old enough to work, he volunteered on other farms and because he was good help they kept calling him. In high school he worked for Hayden Farms, then Moore Farms. Isaac’s mom, Amy, says like most boys, Isaac went through a John Deere tractor phase at 2 or 3 years old when he got a toy tractor for Christmas. He just never grew out of it. “Now my toys are bigger, and a whole lot more expensive,” he laughs. Like two diesel trucks, a small cattle trailer, and an enclosed trailer to haul gear and tools. All paid for. “He’s always been good with money,” Amy says. “Any time he makes a sale, he puts some back. He did all this himself. We’re not farmers. All we have is the acreage. He started all this.” By “this,” she means 28 head of cattle spread across 17 acres of land the Carmons let Isaac turn into pasture and an adjacent 16 acres he leased from his uncle last year. There’s also 27 acres Isaac just bought at another location so he can rotate pastures. “That way I can take the cattle over there to eat up the growth while these fields grow back up.” It’s better for the cows - and the land - that way. Sloshing back across the field to the front lot, Isaac tells me how he started his farming operation in the Spring of 2016, when bought his first four bred heifers to start his herd. In the two years since he’s sold those calves and bought more to “keep on working the cycle” with a spring calving season and fall calving season to provide a steady income stream. He added four more feeder calves in the fall of ‘16, three more bred heifers in the spring of ‘17, followed by three open heifers in the fall of ‘17. There are 12 cows in production now. One delivered in December, two dropped calves this morning, a fourth should deliver in the next week. He still has to pregcheck and vaccinate the remaining eight pregnant cows this spring since he does his own veterinary work. Those eight should drop their calves in late September or early October and the cycle continues. The trick is to increase pasture land while increasing the herd. His next project is clearing another 60 acres for pasture ground so he can build his herd up to about 50 in a few more years. By then he should be able to farm fulltime. Long term, he wants to add some chicken houses and says his goal is to eventually purchase enough land
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to put all his cattle and chicken houses in one place. Next, we start filling buckets to do feeding rounds. The feed is a pellet mixture, 1/3 corn gluten and 2/3 soybean hulls, bought from Southern States on Carter Road. Each bucket weighs 30 pounds. Isaac grabs four, two in each hand. “This is my workout,” he laughs. “I don’t have to worry about going to the gym.” He carries the four buckets to the front pen, where 12 cows are waiting to be sold in May. That will be a big paycheck, most of which will be subdivided for land payments, more livestock, and more equipment. The rest will be tucked away for anything else that comes up. From the sale in May, Isaac plans to “even out the herd” by buying four or five open heifers to be bred with his bull so they will drop calves next spring. Four new cows means he can have eight bred cows in one pasture and eight in the other. As Isaac sets the buckets down outside the fence, the cows inside start moo-ing and walking toward the trough. They know it’s supper time. While Isaac dumps two buckets in each trough, Amy Carmon says she’s pretty proud of her boy for what he’s done. “There’s not a lot of 18-year-olds that can say they’ve started their own business. And to see the work ethic he has and all the time and effort that he has put in to this... he’s an inspiration to me, honestly. He’s known what he wanted to do since he was 3. The 4H program got him connected with the right people and he took it from there.” She tells a story about Isaac getting up early at 9 years old to feed his 4H feeder calf to show at the fair. She says he’s talked about wanting to be a farmer his whole life and his drive has never wavered. Back outside the fence, Isaac appreciates the vote of confidence, but is quick to acknowledge the help he’s received along the way. “I wouldn’t be able to have any of this if it wasn’t for the support of my family and the other local farmers who have helped me get started. The farming community around here is incredible. Excellent people.” The grin on his face tells you he loves what he does. He loves working outside, watching the animals grow, seeing the result of the work of his hands. And he loves the fact that what he learns in class today he might apply tomorrow. Like checking soil levels and knowing when to increase nitrogen or phosphorus to make healthier grass for the cows. What he can’t learn from a book, he learns from working with other farmers. Like how to guide the cows when you’re loading them onto a trailer. “You can’t really learn technique from a book. That has to come from being with the animals.” We shake hands and he thanks me for the help, even though I did nothing but walk along and ask him questions for the last hour. Then as I climb in my truck to head back to town, Isaac walks back to the barn for another four buckets and waves one last time, still grinning ear to ear. OP
Danny May is a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent. He and his wife, Kelly, are raising two very active boys, 10 and 8.
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{ paid advertorial }
learning through
play T
he owners of Simply Therapy, a highly successful pediatric
Preschool and has an associate degree in Early Childhood
speech, occupational and physical therapy practice, Jill
Education. When not teaching at the preschool, Leigha also
Payne and Trina Pryor are expanding their business with a preschool that will open in August 2018.
Play Smart Preschool will be an inclusion-based program,
provides behavior therapy to children with special needs, such as autism. She is currently working towards her Registered
offering a classroom open to children of all abilities and
Behavior Technician credential. Carla Easley is the preschool
sensitive to developmental delays. Trina remembers going
assistant teacher and holds an MBA. She has several years
to school with her sister with cerebral palsy and how that
experience in childcare.
developed her empathy and set the foundation of her educational path. “That exposure for me gave me a sense of normalcy with differently-abled peers,” Trina said. “This is
Speech and occupational therapists will visit the classrooms
for weekly enrichment lessons. Weekly speech lessons may
the peer model we want to offer at Play Smart, where inclusion
include a special book reading or vocabulary lesson, where
is normal for all children. It’s mutually beneficial for both
weekly occupational lessons may consist of handwriting or
sides.”
developing fine motor skills in a fun way. And an outdoor area,
which will include raised garden beds, will provide space for
Beyond the inclusion, what makes Play Smart different is
right in the name—play! Both Trina and Jill are passionate about providing children with a play-based approach to
the children to take their play outside.
learning. Meaningful play encourages curiosity, discovery,
and problem solving which allows individual growth and
are
development of a positive self-image. The Play Smart
Thursday from 8-11:30 a.m. Early drop off is available at 7:30
classroom will have STEAM stations, specifically designed
at no additional cost and snack is provided during each class.
around a monthly theme that focuses on science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
Play-based programming at the preschool level means
The first Play Smart class is August 13. Two class options available:
Monday/Wednesday/Friday
or
Tuesday/
Children ages 3 to 5 are welcome to join Play Smart Preschool and teachers will work with your child on potty training. Play
more hands-on sensory exploration and interaction. Because
Smart Preschool is designed for a cap of 18 students, and will
both Trina and Jill are speech-language pathologists and
adhere to Kentucky standard teacher to child ratios.
conduct therapy every day through Simply Therapy, they
are very intentional in offering developmentally appropriate activities that incorporate the five domains of development (motor, cognition, self-help, social emotional, and language
There will also be a Summer Kickoff Celebration on June
9 from 11:00 am-2:00 pm, where they will be offering tours, along with lunch, balloon animals, snow cones, inflatables,
skills).
and pony rides. Play Smart Preschool is located at 3117 Alvey
Leigha Winslow is the lead teacher at Play Smart
Park Drive W.
OP
Interested in Play Smart? Visit their website, playsmartpreschool.com, for full details, or call 270-240-3310 to speak with Trina or Jill. www.OwensboroParent.com
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In the almost seven years of magazines, Owensboro Parent has recognized a lot of kids. This issue, in honor of Mother's Day and Father's Day, we decided it was time to acknowledge Mom and Dad. We took to Facebook, asking our loyal readers to nominate the SUPER Mom and Dad in their lives—a friend, a neighbor, a coworker, their own mom or dad or even their children. We received an overwhelming amount of nominations, each Mom and Dad with an amazing story. It was tough, but the Owensboro Parent staff narrowed it down to these top 3 SUPER Moms and Dads. Thank you to those WHO nominated and thank you to the nominees— you're all SUPER in our book! Thanks also to the sponsors listed below who donated items to the prize packages!
Sponsored by
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moms & dads
Miriam DeWitt
OPTICAL SALES SPECIALIST AT OWENSBORO FAMILY EYECARE
Super Power: She is very hospitable, according to husband, Kegan, and he says linguistics is a strength of Miriam’s, who is fluent in Spanish, English and Sign Language.
Sidekick: Son, Cruz, 1.5 years old Villain: Moving away from her family in Nicaragua to the United States
Mission: Helping others like herself that are going through similar situations
Source of Strength: God and her family. “She has recently been working long hours and even overtime to support her baby boy and family,” Kegan said. “Also she is doing all of this in a new country away from her entire family. Even through working with a language barrier, she does it all with a smile on her face and says, ‘I’m doing it for my baby boy!’” PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
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moms & dads
Danielle Board REGISTERED NURSE
Super Power: Being able to run on fumes and multitasking with her two boys!
Sidekicks: 2 sons, Greyson and Collin and husband, Ethan
Villain: Moving away from home and putting herself through nursing school, working multiple jobs while in college, and then working two jobs to pay off her student loans to give her family a better start.
Mission: Nurturing and caring for people, which she gets to do not only at home with her babies but at work all day with her patients too!
Source of Strength: Her mother and grandmother
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Why is your mom or dad super? from Mrs. Faith Harralson’s Kindergarten Class, Estes Elementary
Jerry Williams RETIRED
Super Power: The endless amount of support, love, flexibility and time he gives to all of his family. “My husband thinks of his father as Superman,” says daughter-in-law Heather Williams.
Sidekicks: 9 grandkids: Will, Wes, Braylon, Sydney, Eli, Lexi,
is “My daddy he e s u a c e super b ndy gives me ca .” re from the sto a in la -A
Hadley, Ali, and Jacob
Villain: “The biggest challenge my father-in-law has overcome is the limited amount of time he was able to spend with his children after his divorce,” Heather said. “Due to the custody agreement he wasn’t able to see his children as often as he wanted, but made the most of the time he did spend with them. As they became adults and had families of their own, he is very involved in each of their lives and his grandchildren’s lives.”
“My dad is s because m uper y dad saves me fr om falling on rocks.” -Destiney
Mission: Ensuring his family knows he loves them and is proud of each of them. He wants his family to love life and enjoy it.
Source of Strength: He relies on the Lord for his strength and direction in his life.
“My mom is supe r because she is a nurse and keep s people safe and healthy.” -Janiah
super “My mom is om m because my ney o gives me m for books.” -Kimberly
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moms & dads
a super easy breakfast
for your Super Parent!
{ photos and recipe by: jamie alexander }
F
lipping pancakes is not always the easiest task for young kids. I remember standing over the stove watching diligently for the perfect time to make that flip. I’d wait
for just enough bubbles (but not too many), slide my spatula underneath the batter, then try for one swift motion with all my might. 90% of the time, it ended up turning into a mushy pancake-taco hanging over the side of the pan with a majority of its essence dripping down to the floor.
Then I discovered pancake bites, which eliminate the need
for flipping entirely. Pancake Bites can be made ahead and frozen, are extremely portable, and can be customized to each person’s tastes. Definitely a favorite for both kids and adults. No more worrying about flipping disasters—just a quick trip to the oven and they’re ready!
This is the perfect recipe for kids to make their parents on
special days. Just give that subtle hint when you see Mother’s or Father’s Day approaching!
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Chris Collins
ASSISTANT MANAGER, WALMART ON HWY 54
Super Power: Chris can make people laugh even in a stressful situation, according to wife, Kristina. “He has a way of touching peoples’ lives within a matter of seconds with his outgoing and witty personality.”
Sidekick: 2 sons, Clayton and Evan Villain: Cancer. Chris was diagnosed with Burkitts
Lymphoma after going to the ER with what he thought was appendicitis in October 2017. Chris’ wife, Kristina, says cancer has kept him from being a husband, father, provider, and son because of the intense chemo he has had to endure since his diagnosis. The last six months of Chris’ life were confined to a couch because chemo was destroying his immune system and taking away all his energy and strength. But Kristina says this didn’t compare to the hurt he was feeling by not helping and playing with his sons every day.
Mission: His love for people. “If you talk to the nurses that he
comes in contact with they can tell you how he lights up a room and makes everyone smile, even if he is in a huge amount of pain,” Kristina said. “Also, being a father has shown another great quality of himself to me. I know he would do just about anything for me and the boys.”
Source of Strength: “I believe he gets his strength from his mother,” Kristina said. “I also think our boys are his motivation. He has missed out on just getting down on the floor and playing with them these past six months.”
YOU WILL NEED: • Your favorite pancake batter (boxed versions are easiest for kids) • Your choice of toppings (chocolate chips, fruit chunks, nuts, sprinkles, bacon bits) • Mini muffin pan • Non-stick cooking spray 1. Pre-heat oven to 350°. Spray mini-muffin pan with cooking spray and set aside 2. Create your favorite pancake batter by following boxed directions and ingredients (I whisked together Bisquick, milk, and eggs) 3. Pour the batter into the prepared mini-muffin pan, filling each tin 3/4 of the way 4. Add your favorite toppings and push them down in the batter a bit so they stick 5. Bake in the oven for 12 - 15 minutes 6. Let them cool before taking them out of the pan To take your bites to the next level, warm some syrup or Nutella for dipping!
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OP
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moms & dads
Joshua James, Sr. JAMES CLEANING SERVICE
Super Power: The ability to connect with people. Sidekicks: 4 sons, Joshua Jr., Cameron, Carter and Josiah
Villain: The struggle of not having both parents in his life.
Mission: Coaching and mentoring children, according to cousin, Wynter Warren. “He is a standout parent, coach, mentor, son-in-law - the list can go on and on,” Wynter said. “Josh puts God first with his family, then everything else. He is a well-respected coach and loved by not only his athletes but also their parents. He’s an uplifter with the kids. He believes every kid is worthy of anything and everything. There are no favorites. Josh also believes academics come before your sport. I have a 15-, 14- and 11-year-old and everytime we are at a family gathering he will ask how their grades are and how are they coming along with their sports. Most of all Josh cares about the character of the child. He shows that with every team he coaches. You see it with the way the kids respond to him. The respect that he expects from them and they are willing to give it. He truly loves the kids and wants the best character forward of them.”
Source of Strength: God and family, but especially his grandmother, Shirlene James and father-in-law, Mark Woodward.
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moms & dads
Christy Kraus EMPLOYEE, STATE OF KENTUCKY
Super Power: Her strength. “She is by far the strongest woman I know,” says daughter, Kayla. Even after everything she’s had to endure as a mother, a wife, a daughter, and just everyday life situations she constantly has a smile on her face no matter what. She never shows any form of weakness because being strong is her only option.
Sidekick: 1 daughter, Kayla Villains: Cancer. Two years ago her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and shortly after, Christy was diagnosed with breast cancer. Christy received a double mastectomy, and her mother received chemotherapy and radiation, which rid them of cancer. In late 2017, Christy’s husband, Tony, was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, which metastasized to his brain and he was unable to survive. The love story that he and Christy shared was truly indescribable, according to daughter, Kayla. “He loved her so much, just as she did him. He was an amazing man, an amazing teacher, and an amazing step father. With all of that being said, I am nominating my mom because no matter all of the hardships she has faced these past few years, she has continued to be a wonderful mother to me no matter how much she has felt like giving up. Her world came crashing down, yet she still works so hard every single day to provide for us, to pay for our home, to put food on the table. She is by far one of the strongest women I know.”
Mission: Help those who can’t always help themselves. She goes beyond any expectation and always puts herself last. She is the type of person who would go without just to make sure someone else is taken care of.
Source of Strength: “She continues to push through every day to always be the best mom that she can be for me no matter the heartbreak she faces daily. We are a team and no matter what, we have each others back through everything. I couldn’t ask for a better mother, friend, or role model. She is truly a beautiful person and my best friend. I hope to one day be half the wife, mother and Christian that she is.”
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OP
www.OwensboroParent.com
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✁
moms & dads
Design your own
super parent! { by: katie albers }
Tights and mutant disfigurements aside, parents have a lot in common with superheroes. They both realize their purpose: protecting the innocent against the forces of evil. And It takes real superpowers to be a parent. This year, remind your mom or dad of all their superpowers by designing their very own superhero suit card. Supplies Needed: Photo of mom or dad (optional), scissors, and glue. Directions: Paste a photo of your mom’s or dad’s face onto the hero body outline or color his or her face. Then decide which superpowers do your parents use to fight the daily battles of life. Cut them out and paste them to the hero.
give mom or dad a superhero name!
Need some help? All you need is a pair of dice. Roll the dice. The first number should be used to choose the first name and the second number to choose the second name.
1 = Super 2 = Captain 3 = Wonder 4 = Fantastic 5 = Incredible 6 = Ultra
1 = Everything 2 = Love 3 = Wonder 4 = Do-It-All 5 = Mom / Dad 6 = Giver
thanks for being super!
x-ray vision
Glasses for finding missing pacifiers, homework and tennis shoes.
love
Heart for daily patience, forgiveness, and hugs.
energy absorption
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super strength
Muscles for hauling babies and groceries from the car to the kitchen.
Mind-reading
Helmet for predicting when the kids will be making dangerous decisions.
super speed
Cape for herding everyone out of the house on weekday mornings.
healing
Lips for giving magical kisses that make all sorts of ouchies feel better instantly.
iron stomach
Iron stomach panel for cleaning up terrible messes.
weather control
Gloves for changing the atmosphere of the home through personal mood.
Katie Albers grew up in Owensboro and loved words so much that she became a school librarian and even alphabetized her family: Josh, Katie, Lance, Mallory, Noelle, Oaken, and Polly (the cat).
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moms & dads
What Mom Really Wants
for Mother’s Day { by: jamie roby johnson }
I
cannot tell a lie. I absolutely love Mother’s Day. I look forward to
brunch with my sweet children and husband at a nice restaurant.
it all year long.
Why?
than likely scream and/or cry the entire time. I will loudly whisper
Because we know where that realistically ends. The kids will more
Because I always plan on taking full advantage of a day that
and give my mom side-eye to my preschooler, threatening to take
revolves completely around me. I want to be a queen for the day! Or at
away his iPad for the rest of his life if he doesn’t stop doing forward
least get some preferential treatment.
rolls in the middle of the restaurant. Then my husband and I will try
Now that I have an infant and an extremely boisterous 3 year-old,
to eat our food while one of us chases our 3 year-old that continues to
I need some down time more than ever. As in, Mama might get sent to
forward roll around the restaurant and the other feeds the baby with
the looney bin soon if she doesn’t get a day off.
one hand while eating with the other.
But does a “day off ” really exist for a mom? I honestly don’t think
Check please!
so unless you aren’t in the same city, state or country as your children.
The Mother’s Day of my dreams looks like this.
I want to sleep in. Like, actually sleep in. Not the “Oh yay, the
So below is the Mother’s Day of my dreams. What I REALLY
want my Mother’s Day to be like, not the politically correct version of
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baby slept until 6:30 a.m.!” sleep in. I want to sleep until 9 a.m. I know,
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right? Doesn’t that sound magical?
For breakfast, I want the biggest French Vanilla Latte from
wine.
Starbucks and French toast. And I want to eat it alone. In complete
silence. While watching TV on the couch in my leggings and sweatshirt.
if I would realize that feeling now.
I want to see my kids—the tiny humans that made me a mom. I
And I want to do this while eating cheesecake. And drinking red I want to feel relaxed. Like, actually relaxed. I honestly don’t know Sounds selfish doesn’t it? As I read this back to myself, I think,
want them to present me with their handmade cards and pictures of me.
“Geez Jamie, be nicer!”
I want there to be globs of glue stick under hearts that were cut out by a
3 year-old. I want there to be too much glitter and a big kiss and lots of
We need time to refuel. And let’s be honest, how often do us moms with
hugs.
small children get to do that?
But in the pictures they draw of me, I want to look really skinny.
Maybe it is selfish, but us moms need a break every once in a while.
If we want to be our best mom selves, we have to get a break. We pour
And I want to have a great tan. And really long, beautiful hair. And
our hearts and souls into caring for these tiny humans. And though we
eyebrows that have been properly tweezed in the last three months.
love them more than life itself, it can be draining. To the point that we
Then I want the kids to go away.
lock ourselves in the bathroom for an hour and turn on the shower and
Judge me all you want, but it’s called MOTHER’S DAY. Every other
just sit on the floor drinking coffee and eating an entire bag of Brownie
day of the year is kid’s day.
Brittle.
I want to lounge around uninterrupted. So I can take a long, hot
P.S.—I did that exact same thing last Mother’s Day.
shower. And take over the couch without any kids jumping on my face
So before you buy your wife jewelry or order her flowers for Mother’s
or crying because they want to watch that one episode of Mickey Mouse
Day, ask her what she REALLY wants. The answer might just surprise
Road Racers where they visit a haunted house.
you!
I want to watch the entire season of Project Runway All Stars that
I have DVR’d but haven’t been able to watch yet because I’m playing with the kids, doing their laundry, talking them out of jumping off the bookcase in the living room or cleaning up their messes.
www.OwensboroParent.com
OP
Jamie Johnson is a full-time working mom to two little boys, wife to Logan, and part-time writer. Her pieces have been featured in HuffPost Parents, Motherly, Today Parents and PopSugar Moms. You can follow her blog at HashtagMomFail.com!
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moms & dads
the ultimate gift guide
for Mother’s & Father’s Day Excursions
Excursions has been THE
Studio Slant Studio Slant is a one-of-
place to shop in Owensboro since 1983, conve-
a-kind lifestyle boutique located in the heart of
niently located in Wesleyan Park Plaza. Not a
Owensboro next to Wesleyan Park Plaza. The
cookie-cutter store, the buyers at Excursions
boutique is filled with awesome, unique gifts, plus
search and experiment with exclusive lines that define each new season. You are sure to find a one-ofa-kind gift for the special mom in your life at Excursions!
In His Image Photography
they offer monogramming, free delivery and free gift wrapping, which is sure to send you away looking like a gift giving rockstar.
A Mother’s Day photo session is the perfect
Integrity Nursery & Outdoor Living Shop this diverse
gift for that special lady in your life. We can’t
outdoor living company providing both full
think of a single momma that wouldn’t want
landscape and outdoor services and an award-
some portraits taken with the most important little people in their lives.
Old Hickory What dad doesn’t like BBQ?
winning garden center and patio store for moms and dads that love being outside.
Hill View Farms Meats
This local
Old Hickory’s award-winning BBQ sauce is a
hometown business prides itself on producing the
perfect gift for dads that like to grill. Your dad not
highest quality meat products. The dad in your life
a chef? No worries -- gift cards make a great Father’s
will love Premium Black Angus beef products that
Day gift. Either way, dad can enjoy some of Owensboro’s
raised on a farm right here in Daviess County.
best BBQ.
Gateway Urgent Care
All About You Salon & Spa Our
Your mom deserves royal treatment, and that
friends at Gateway Urgent Care recognize the
is exactly what she will get at All About You.
importance of Father’s Day and showing dad
Whether it’s a new hairstyle, manicure,
you are thankful for his leadership and love. They recommend a car wash gift certificate or membership. What dad doesn’t love a clean car?
Shoe Stop
Does your dad need to ditch
spray tan, massage, lash extensions or make-up application -- your mom will feel like a queen this Mother’s Day!
Pearl Club Does your dad like to play
his old or worn-out work boots? Does your
golf? The Don Charles designed layout of The
mom need the perfect heels to complement her
Pearl Club provides players of all levels a chal-
new party dress? Step out of the box by visiting Shoe Stop this Mother’s Day or Father’s Day!
lenging and diverse experience. With bentgrass greens, five lakes and multiple teeing areas, the course can play from 5,500 yards up to 6,835 yards.
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{ paid advertorial }
new ideas, accountable leadership
B
orn and raised on his family’s farm in Sorgho, Nicholas
to Owensboro, I made a conscious choice that I wanted to serve the
“Nick” Goetz was a standout student and athlete at Apollo
community that raised me,” Nick said. And while Goetz said he
High School. Growing up on a farm and playing sports, he
likes the current administration, he believes the office needs new
learned the value of community and what it meant to work hard to
blood and careful reexamination. “If you’re not willing to give the
accomplish goals.
office 100 percent of your focus, then it’s time to step aside.”
Nick was awarded his Juris Doctorate from the UK’s College
Goetz sees a shift coming from Frankfort in the prosecution of
of Law in 2004. After clerking for the Hon. Tom Castlen and the
criminal cases, with sentencing options that focus more on treatment
Hon. Henry “Mac” Griffin, Nick decided to seek a career as a
rather than incarceration for first time offenses and drug charges.
prosecutor. Nick became well versed in the prosecution of drug
“I want to do a better job as County Attorney acting as a liaison
trafficking, vehicular DUI homicides, and child abuse. “The
between the citizens of Daviess County and the governmental
successful prosecution of these cases, knowing that the person has
entities that are supposed to be serving those citizens – all of those
been removed from society and has to actually pay their debt to
citizens,” Goetz said.
the victim and the Commonwealth as a whole, is most rewarding –
knowing the real impact that you’ve made in a victim’s life.
Attorney office as well. “I think anytime you are dealing with public,
Wanting to return to home to Owensboro in 2007, Nick entered
taxpayers’ dollars, transparency, accountability, and efficiency are
private practice. He is currently a partner with Gordon Law
vital. Anyone in this position should be asking the question if we
Offices, PSC focusing on litigation, agri-business, and criminal law.
are spending those taxpayer dollars the right way.”
Additionally, Nick serves as a civic and philanthropic leader. He has
served with organizations like the Daviess County YMCA and the
person who believes in elbow grease and doing the best job you can
Diocese of Owensboro Diocesan Review Board.
do, a quality he would expect from everyone in the County Attorney
office.
While he enjoys his current practice, he wants to return to
Goetz said he would like to improve the efficiency of the County
Nick prides himself on being a “measure twice, cut once” kind of
the public sector and to prosecution. “I think it is a good idea if
every attorney had to take a job in the public sector, being a public
intention of making this my permanent home. This is a dynamic
servant,” Goetz said. “I think that public service is a key, and good
community it needs to remain dynamic,” Nick said. “It needs new
civic responsibility. I enjoy that work, which is part of the reason I
ideas and accountability for its leadership, which is why I chose to
am running for Daviess County Attorney.”
run. I think the citizens of Daviess County deserve the best. I’m
young and want to establish a permanent role in the community for
The other reason behind Goetz’ run for County Attorney is a
desire to serve the citizens of Daviess County. “When I returned
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“Daviess County is where I’m from. I came back with the full
the future.”
OP
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32 things to do over
summer
Break 1
D O W N T OWN C R UI S E I N
The Downtown Cruise In is a fun, FREE, event for any young car enthusiast. Cars of all makes and models will line Third Street in Downtown Owensboro—a sight that is sure to wow your little car lover. Just a block from the beautiful downtown riverfront, your family will be close to great shopping, family restaurants and of course, Smothers Park! The Cruise In is the first Saturday of the month through October from 3-7 p.m.
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2
Take a Kid Camping & Fishing
This is the perfect getaway for the everyone in the family. It is affordable for parents and creates lasting family memories. Take a Kid Camping will be Friday June 1 at the Panther Creek Park. Check in at Feather Landing Shelter and set up begins at 5 p.m. Activities will include bingo, 4-H programs, and s’mores will be provided. Join us in celebrating the great outdoors! Cost is $5 and an additional $2 per person. Take a Kid Fishing is the next day, June 2, at the Panther Creek Park with registration at Feather Landing Shelter. Pre-registration is $1 and $2 the day of. Open to ages 3-15 accompanied by an adult. The fishing derby will be from 9 – 11 a.m. with an awards ceremony to commence as soon as the fishing is complete. There will be awards for most, largest, and smallest fish. There will also be a casting and reeling competition. Age divisions will be 3-5, 6-8, 9-11, and 12-15. Please bring life jackets for children under the age of 7.
3
Farmers Market
Every weekend at the Farmer’s Market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. You can enjoy food trucks, exercise classes and family entertainment most weekends. It is just a nice way to spend a Saturday morning! Check out our calendar for specific events.
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7
Diamond Lake
Make a Lemonade Stand
This hidden gem on Owensboro west wide, is perfect for summer adventure. Your family could camp, swim, fish, play a number of sports including disc golf, ride go karts, play mini golf, ride bumper and pedal boats, enjoy a show and much more. Take a step away from your daily routines and get outdoors with your family this summer!
Your kids are bored already and it’s only a few days into summer break? Encourage their creative and entrepreneurial spirit by helping them make a lemonade stand. You will need some type of stand, or just a table will do. Your little ones can make signs advertising your menu items as well as prices. Use this as a teachable moment and encourage them to think of how they could help others with their profits. But of course, the main component of any lemonade stand – the lemonade! Rather than using a cheap mix, why not make good, old-fashioned lemonade? Here is a recipe that we think will bring your little businessmen and women lots of sales and repeat customers:
Ingredients: 5 lbs lemons 2 cups water 2 cups sugar
5 L I N C O L N PI O N EER VILLAGE
Just a short drive across the bridge, the Rockport Lincoln Pioneer Village & Museum Heritage Days on May 19 and 20 is a unique, fun event for families. The village comes alive with two days of reenactors, period demonstrations, candle making for kids, music, food, and more. Other summer events at the Village include Celebrating Rockport’s Bicentennial on June 2 where visitors can enjoy a parade, music, food and more and the Abraham Lincoln Freedom Festival on July 7 where visitors can enjoy a car show, music, food and fireworks!
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L I VE ON THE B A N KS
Live on the Banks is a FREE outdoor concert series at Overlook Stage at Smothers Park in Downtown Owensboro, which will feature some of the finest local and regional performing arts and entertainers, every Saturday evening, May 19 through September 29. Live on the Banks is a FREE family event, open to the public, for all ages, and is presented by the City of Owensboro.
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Create a Summer Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts are the perfect way to get kids away from the TV or device and enjoying the outdoors. Take a look around your surroundings and see what your kids could ‘hunt’ for and collect in a basket. Outside it might be as simple as a twig, bark, stone, or acorn. This is the perfect rainy day activity too. Inside, you can have kids hunt for either household items—so they learn where the broom goes, and what drawer the tin foil is kept—or you collect items and hide them like Easter eggs. www.OwensboroParent.com
Instructions
Cut lemons in half. Juice each lemon through a strainer into a large measuring cup. Keep juicing until you have 2 cups of lemon juice. Pour water into a medium-size saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in sugar. Continue cooking over heat until sugar is dissolved and liquid looks clear again. Combine sugar solution with lemon juice. This is a lemonade concentrate. When ready to serve, add water to taste. Notes The lemonade concentrate can be frozen for later use. Just pour it into a gallon-sized ziploc bag and lay flat in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw, and add water to taste.
9 Trunnell’s
Trunnell’s Family Fun-Acre includes activities to keep active toddlers happy, school-aged youngsters intrigued, and adults amazed. Every weekend this summer, Trunnell’s offers something fun and exciting at either their Hwy 431 or Hwy 54 markets. Check our calendar for full details!
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11
Movies on the River
10 C A M P WHEEZE-AWAY
This is an educational day camp aimed at empowering children with asthma—and their parents—to develop the skills needed to manage their own asthma, make healthy choices and lead normal, physically active lives. During Camp Wheeze-Away, children participate in interactive educational activities, disguised as fun and games, which teach them how to manage their asthma. Educational classroom sessions regarding asthma and disease management are taught by volunteers including a physician, nurses, respiratory therapists and other health professionals. Exercise physiologists teach children how they can be physically active with asthma. This year’s camp will be held June 14-16 in a medically supervised environment at the Owensboro Health Healthpark. If you are interested in sending your child to Camp Wheeze-Away, please visit owensboroallergy.com to download the Camp Wheeze-Away Registration Packet.
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The RiverPark Center’s Movies on the River event is always a family favorite—bring a lawn chair or comfy blanket, and enjoy the FREE movie outside on the RPC balcony. The movie begins at dusk and will be moved inside if bad weather occurs. Concessions will be available; please do not bring coolers or pets. This year’s line up includes: Coco – May 27 The LEGO Batman Movie – June 24 The Emoji Movie – July 29 Cars 3 – September 2
12
Slip and Slide Into Summer
Create a slip and slide in your own backyard. Best on a slight hill or incline, you simply lay down a tarp and stake it down. Soap up the tarp with baby wash and the water hose – instant slip and slide!
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14
Reid’s Orchard
Make a day of it at Reid’s Orchard this summer! Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers and you have to get an apple slushie! Then your kids can play to their heart’s content at Reidland— ride on the Apple Express Train, ride a horse or pony, feed and pet a number of animals, mine for some precious gems, jump on the giant berry bouncer and more! Be sure to check out the Reid’s Orchard website for activity dates.
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15
Wendell Foster Summer Autism Program
WATER BALLOON FUN
Now accepting applications, the program supports the refinement of social skills, life skills and community involvement for school age children through young adults. By using positive reinforcement techniques, our staff teaches students the skills necessary to be successful in everyday activities such as behaving properly in a restaurant, making friends, conversing with others, problem solving, and being a “good loser.”
Instruction is individualized for each person by agreement among the student, family, and staff and occurs in our afterschool program and during our summer day camp. New skills are practiced in both classroom and community settings. For additional information, or if you have questions, contact Kristen Coomes, Autism Program Manager at 270-663-1460 or koomes@wendellfoster.org
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There are lots of things kids can do with water balloons! Draw a target in the driveway and have them try to hit the bulls eye. Use beach towels to toss the balloons back and forth, trying not to bust the balloon. Hang the balloons from the swing set and have kids hit them like a piñata. Or just let them throw them at each other for an all-out water balloon war!
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16
Romp music festival Celebrating its 15th year, ROMP Festival will return to Owensboro’s Yellow Creek Park, a 150-acre facility famous for its nature trails, winding creek and fishing lake, and sweeping tree-lines, plays host to ROMP each year. A full line-up of artist-led instrument workshops takes place throughout the day, as ROMP artists interact with fans and players of all ages and skill levels. Other workshops and forums include songwriting, clogging and flat-foot dancing, yoga (all levels), and bluegrass jamming 101. Additional offerings at ROMP Festival include organic and farm-to-table food vendors, craft vendors featuring Kentucky Proud products, and art installations. What parents may not realize is that ROMP is a family-friendly festival! Kids 12 and under are free and stay entertained with our free activities, spray park and kids zone. The Kids Zone this year will feature performances from The Melody Garden, a nature-based music and movement class for children. Kids can also enjoy crafts and harmonica and kazoo lessons from Art the Dude with a free instrument. Kids will love to meet Hootie the owl from Western Kentucky Raptor Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of birds of
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prey through public education. And they will enjoy an instrument petting zoo and dance lessons with Barry Lanham. Western Kentucky Medical Reserve Corp will host a build-your-own first aid kit lesson, and kids can take fiddle lessons with Owensboro’s own, Randy Lanham. Festivalgoers are encouraged to camp, including families. Bring the kids and have a fun-filled family festival experience! Specific family-friendly campsites are available, which includes quiet hours from 10 p.m.-7 a.m.
ROMP Must Bring List for Kids: • • • • • • • • • •
SWIM SUIT SANDALS (SOMETHING THEY CAN BE COMFORTABLE IN AND GET MUDDY) HAT SUNGLASSES BUBBLES FRISBEE HULA HOOP TOWELS CLOTHESLINE FOR TOWELS AND SUITS (IF CAMPING) HAMMOCK
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Wendell Foster Summer Autism Program Now accepting applications, the program supports the refinement of social skills, life skills and community involvement for school age children through young adults. By using positive reinforcement techniques, our staff teaches students the skills necessary to be successful in everyday activities such as behaving properly in a restaurant, making friends, conversing with others, problem solving, and being a “good loser.� Instruction is individualized for each person by agreement among the student, family, and staff and occurs in our afterschool program and during our summer day camp. New skills are practiced in both classroom and community settings. For additional information, or if you have questions, contact Kristen Coomes, Autism Program Manager at 270-663-1460 or koomes@wendellfoster.org
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17
Central City
Lu-Ray Park
A Hi d d e n G em in Cen t r a l Cit y Central City’s Lu-Ray Park and Amphitheater opened last year and is already bringing in top-selling artists to the small Kentucky community. This open-air facility with its park-like setting includes a paved walking trail, outdoor amphitheater with seating of up to 7,500, a structured concession stand and restroom facilities, a Veterans memorial and a covered outdoor pavilion complete with water and electric. The walking trail, stretching .4 miles, was sponsored by Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital and has become a particular focal point of the park. On a warm day you will find people walking their dog, kids learning to ride bikes and elderly community members staying active. There is also two acres of open land where kids can just run, says Lu-Ray Executive Director, Melissa Recke. It was Mayor Barry Shaver’s vision for this $1.5 million facility to provide a place for families to come together for wellness with the new walking trail and to provide an atmosphere of unity within the community by offering events that bring family and friends together. He and the formed committee worked tirelessly to get this project for Lu-Ray going so that this gift is left for the next generation. Last season, Lu-Ray opened with Sundance Head, a country and soul singer, and the season 11 winner of NBC’s “The Voice.” And while that was the biggest event Lu-Ray has seen, that is sure to be surpassed by contemporary Christian music artists Tenth Avenue North and Colton Dixon who will perform on June 9 at Lu-Ray. “It’s going to be one big night of worship,” said Recke. “We are drawing concertgoers from six counties and they are going to see a world-class show, from the lighting and stage production to the talent the artists.”
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Recke hopes that this concert will set a precedent for LuRay, allowing the community and surrounding areas to become acquainted with the facility and look forward to future concerts that will be offered. But concerts are not all Lu-Ray is offering the community. Central City’s Rods & Ribs event on June 2 will be moved from its downtown location to its new home at Lu-Ray. BBQ vendors, car exhibition, kids activities, inflatables and a BBQ competition will all take place in the park, culminating in a concert that night – The Beat Daddys with Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin Stones. A popular family event, Movies in the Park, begins June 29 with eight movies in this season’s line up. Concessions are always available at the movie and families are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to watch new and classic family movies on the 30 x 60 ft. screen. The amphitheater sits on the old property of the Lu-Ray Hotel, which was built in 1912 and was a major stopping point for travelers and workers on the railroad between Paducah and Louisville. Mirroring the design of the Lu Ray Hotel that once stood on the grounds, the front facade of the amphitheater has arches that are reminiscent of the historical building. According to Recke, during its heyday, the Lu Ray Hotel was a bustling place that hosted a lot of famous people who were traveling on the passenger trains that ran near the building. When planning the park and amphitheater, it seemed only fitting to return to the name that once drew crowds of people. It seems as though Lu-Ray is already living up to its namesake.
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18 Malco Summer Film Fest
Mark your calendar for Tuesdays in June and July for Malco’s Summer Film Fest. All movies are $2 per person and start at 10 a.m. Here is a list of this summer’s line up: June 5 – Boss Baby June 12 – Chronicles of Narnia June 19 – Captain Underpants June 26 – Prince of Egypt July 3 – Trolls July 10 – Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Long Haul July 17 – Ferdinand July 24 – Horton Hears a Who July 31 – The Princess Bride
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M USE UM SC H O O L ’ S O UT SUM M E R CA M P S
Looking for a unique summer experience? Your kids will love the School’s Out Summer Camp hosted by the Kentucky Science Center and held at the Owensboro Museum of Science and History from June 11–15 and July 16–20, where they can explore a variety of engineering topics from LEGOS to projects-based engineering challenges! Camp costs $175 for the week and hours are 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
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Summer Piano and Voice with CathyMullins
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Holiday Drive-In
The Holiday Drive-In, just across the blue bridge in Reo, Indiana, opened its first screen in 1955 and is now one of the oldest American drive-in theaters still in operation. Now with six screens, Holiday Drive-In offers 12 movies per night. Adults are $10 and kids ages 4 – 11 are $5 (cash only). You are welcome to bring your own coolers packed with your favorite snacks and soda, or a concession stand is available with hamburgers, hot dogs, soda, candy, ice cream and of course, popcorn!
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Have you or your child always wanted to learn to play piano but are concerned about the years and years required for such an endeavor? Why not try a short, five-week series of lessons designed for beginners from ages 8 to 80? Students can truly learn to play hundreds of songs by using just a few simple tricks of the trade along with some theory and basic technique strategies. Call 270-316-9203 or email cathy.mullins25@gmail.com for details.
22 Owensboro & Daviess County Parks
Owensboro is home to dozens and dozens of parks—27 to be exact and five of those have spray parks. Make it a point to visit all 27 this summer. This is free fun right in your own town! Have a picnic, fish in the stocked lakes, enjoy the variety of playgrounds—fun for your kids doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive!
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23
A N N IE , JR . P RE SE N TE D B Y T WO
Based on “Little Orphan Annie,” this is the youth version of the delightful musical, ANNIE. Performed by local actors of grades 3-12, we know everyone will enjoy the show! Show times at Empress Theatre are: Friday and Saturday, June 22, 23, 29, 30 at 7 p.m.; Sunday, June 24 and July 1 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students.
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Star Gazing 101
Learn about stargazing and spend a summer night identifying as many constellations as possible. Check out books from the library or research apps on your phone that help you identify constellations. Grab some blankets and lay in the back yard—we bet you lose track of time while taking in the beauty of a summer night sky.
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25
Dazzling Daylilies Festival with Balloons Over the Garden
Your kids will be in awe of the hot air balloons over the beautiful scenery at the Garden. Kids can enjoy a balloon glow, lots of activities, food, and music. The festival runs from June 22–June 30, but the Balloons over the Garden will take place 22–24.
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PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY
26
international bbq festival The BBQ Festival, held this year on May 11 & 12, is an Owensboro tradition that spans four decades. For generations families have attended the downtown event, rain or shine, as a kickoff to summer. Rides, games and most importantly, BBQ, are sure to make an exciting, memorymaking family outing!
Foods, Vendors and Arts and Crafts
Owensboro Parent spoke with Sharon NeSmith and Allen Payne, 2018 BBQ Festival Co-Chairs, about what Owensboro families can expect at the 40th Annual International BBQ Festival. Here are some of the highlights:
Visit our 35 plus Back Yard Cooks event on Saturday, May 12 for free samples of individuals vying for the 2018 individual grill master title. Try the BBQ Mutton and Pork Sandwiches along with Burgoo from each of the Governor’s Cup cooking teams and see if you can determine who will be the Grand Champion at the end of the day on Saturday. And don’t forget the funnel cakes, corn dogs, lemonade and ice cream plus all the other special foods available from the varied vendors on 2nd Street. There will be games and face painting and ribbons and bows for you to check out in our Arts and Crafts area too.
Casey’s Rides
Picnic Pavilion
This carnival, owned and operated by locals JD and Debbie Green, is a returning event for the BBQ Festival. The carnival must operate in a very limited space to comply with space restrictions; however, each year they bring various rides for children and teens (and adults too.) You will see this carnival at schools, churches and other events in our area throughout the year. The Festival Carnival will operate on Friday, May 11 from 5 - 11 p.m. and on Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Rides are located beginning at the blue bridge on 2nd Street through Clay Street.
Pie Eating Contest
The pie eating contest will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, May 12. The contest is open to anyone 12 years old and younger. The event will be held at the Overlook Stage and special guest Ron Rhodes will be our Master of Ceremonies along with other team members for judging! Cash prizes are awarded. Arrive at 11:30 a.m. to register to participate.
Mutton Glutton Sandwich Eating Contest
Joey Chestnut, 2017 Mutton Sandwich Eating Champion, will return to defend his title in 2018. In 2017, Joey ate 55 sandwiches in 10 minutes. Additional challengers from the Major League Eating organization will be here to vie for the 2018 Champion title, along with a special contest from this event’s overall sponsor, Kentucky Legend. Ten professional contenders are expected with two additional challengers chosen from our area.
Sometimes you just need a place to relax and refresh. Visit the picnic pavilion for some rest and shade or a place to enjoy all those foods you are eating. A special thank you to First Baptist Church for providing this area for all.
Music
The crowd will be moving and clapping with four different stage areas in the Festival with different genres of music throughout the streets. Domtar Paper Company is sponsoring a new stage at Veterans & Daviess Street headlining some great family bluegrass acts. There will be two stages in the Festival Plaza Entertainment Area, the Kentucky Legend Stage and the ATMOS Energy Stage, presenting Southern Rock, a little Soul, and Country. A DJ Tent will be out by the cooking teams to keep the music going as you watch the pit teams cook and enjoy samples from the Back Yard Cooks.
BBQ Cooking
Watch the Governor’s Cup cooking teams as they stir burgoo and flip chickens. Watch out for that pitch fork as they spear mutton hams and pork shoulders to turn over on the pits. Visit the Back Yard Cooks and watch as they prepare their competition food to win the special title of Grand Champion of the Back Yard Cooks. Visit all of the Festival areas, and find your favorite spots. Check our web site, bbqfest.com, for a schedule of all events. There is a reason our tag line says: Come for the Food, Stay for the Fun!
sponsored by: Ole South Bar-B-Q, one of the best BBQ restaurants in Owensboro, will be at this year’s BBQ Festival. Located at 2nd and Allen Streets, across from Mellow Mushroom, Ole South will be the closest BBQ vendors to both the Casey’s Rides area and Smothers Park. They will offer chopped mutton and pulled pork sandwiches, burgoo, fries, chips and soda all at reasonable prices - a family of four can eat for less than $25! When your family gets hungry at the BBQ Fest, be sure and stop by Ole South for some delicious food! 58 OWENSBORO PARENT
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27 visit beaver dam
PHOTO BY LAURA DAUGHERTY
Small Town, Big Events
Just 25 minutes south of Owensboro sits the city of Beaver Dam, the largest city in Ohio County, but a town that definitely still carries that small town feel. With over 130 businesses located within the city limits the downtown area still consists of mainly family owned restaurants, shops, and boutiques. “Because of tourism expansion, we have a real growth in local business,” said JoBeth Embry, Tourism Director for Beaver Dam. “Our community has embraced ‘shop local, stay local.’ They are spending their money here and as a result Beaver Dam is a booming small town.” The tourism expansion that Embry mentioned is in large part to the Beaver Dam Amphitheater. The theater can accommodate shows for up to 1,600 people on the main level with lawn-chair seating and the ability to expand to 5,000 with second-tier hillside. This amphitheater was a natural fit for Beaver Dam, as music is a major component of the community’s heritage. Bluegrass legend Bill Monroe and Grammy-winning Christian performer Jason Crabb and the Crabb Family were all born in Ohio County. Not to mention, Beaver Dam’s location is centrally located to several larger populated areas like Owensboro and Bowling Green, which has proven to draw large crowds. This summer, the Beaver Dam Tourism Commission has set out to hold an event every weekend. With a variety to offer, they encourage Owensboro to check out their 2018 summer line up. Kicking off the season is two-time Grammy winner, singersongwriter, John Prine, who will take the stage on May 11. The Prine concert has garnered the highest ticket sales for the amphitheater, selling to over 80 counties in Kentucky, nearly 40 states in the US and even ticket sales in Canada and Australia. The Oak Ridge Boys, a community favorite with their fourpart harmonies and upbeat songs, will be returning to Beaver Dam on June 1 as well as hometown hero, Jason Crabb, who will
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take the stage June 23.
With something for everyone, Beaver Dam hopes to make
their July 28 event, ‘80s Rocks the Dam, an annual event. This year’s concert will feature SKID ROW, Great White and Vixen.
Kentucky artist Tyler Childers, who will open for John
Prine on May 11, will return to headline a show on August 18, with Aubrie Sellers opening. And country artist Lee Brice with Morgan Evans and Dylan Schneider will take the stage August 25.
But Beaver Dam will be offering more than just concerts
this summer. The annual Strawberry Festival is a Memorial Day weekend celebration that kicks off the summer season for the Ohio County town. Festivalgoers can expect a parade, car cruise in, carnival rides and an old-fashioned baking contest with— you guessed it—strawberries, and this year’s big event, a Nascar Experience.
Sparks in the Park is the town’s Independence Day celebration
and will be held the first Saturday in July. Night Shift, Jericho Woods and Andy Brasher will perform that evening, followed by fireworks. The Back to School Bands Bash on August 11 will end the summer event list, with inflatables and lots of great music.
And rounding out the summer lineup is Beaver Dam’s
Sounds on Second, a concert series that will alternate Friday nights in downtown until local high school football season begins. Free concerts will be played in the downtown area until 9:30 p.m. and local businesses will stay open late to accommodate the concertgoers.
“With the resurgence of downtown Beaver Dam, Sounds
on Second will be an awesome event to look forward to every other Friday,” JoBeth said. “We are a small town with big things happening.”
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28
Joe ford nature center camp
If you love learning about and being surrounded by nature, then this nature camp is for you! All Nature Camp programs are offered at no charge; however, a $5 donation per child, per class session is requested to be able to continue Joe Ford’s wish of offering nature-related programs to our community. Sessions are every Wednesday in June and July. For ages 7 - 10, sessions are from 9 - 11 a.m. For ages 11 - 14, sessions are from 1 - 4 p.m. Session topics include planting a garden, pond life, pollution and animals, butterflies, animal tracking and more. Register for the Nature Camp by filling out the form online or by contacting Deborah at (270) 344-0596 or email to jfncdirector2017@gmail.com.
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Kindermusik
Sing into summer with Kindermusik at the Owensboro Symphony Academy! Kindermusik is the world’s leading provider of music-based education for children from birth through age 7. Join licensed educator, Dedra McDole, and a community of parents and children who use the power and joy of music-making to help children learn and grow during the years most critical to brain development. You will watch your little ones blossom and grow as they interact with other children and engage in movement, rhythm, and vocal activities that develop far more than just music skills. Classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and big kids through age 7! Register online at Kindermusik.com
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Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies
T R A V E L I N G E X H I B I T I O N AT OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY
Bring your little ones to OMSH to learn about how dinosaurs raised their tiny titans. Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies is a hands-on dinosaur experience for the whole family. Kids can dig for eggs, dress up like a parent dinosaur to brood their nest, and feel the texture of dinosaur eggs. Cute babies and fun dino facts will keep everyone entertained on your next trip to the museum. Babies grow fast so make sure you catch them while they are here, through September 2, 2018! Free with Museum admission and always free to Museum members.
31 SOA P BO X DERBY
The Soap Box Derby is a youth racing program, which has run nationally since 1934. World Championship finals are held each July at Derby Downs in Akron, Ohio. Owensboro’s Lions Club holds its own Soap Box Derby at a track at Ben Hawes park. A Spring Rally Race will be held on May 26 – 27; local race on June 9; and a Summer Rally Race on August 11 – 12. This is a fun event to for your little race enthusiast! The Lions Club even has extra cars if your child is interested in participating.
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owensboro parent
kids triathlon P H O T O S B Y TAY LO R W E S T
O u r F av o r i t e E v en t of t h e Su mme r! { by: robert williams }
T
he kid’s triathlon, presented by Independence Bank, has proven to be one of our favorite events here at Owensboro Parent. It is inspirational to see such young kids complete a task that many adults have never even attempted. I have found myself getting emotional watching on race day or even watching footage after the event. This summer, we want to invite all families to come out and cheer on your child as they complete a three-part event - trust us, you are sure to be inspired! At Owensboro Parent, we don’t care about speed or what place you finish. We want to promote health in a way that the whole family can benefit. For those of you who have never been to a triathlon, we hope to provide you with an overview of the event so that you will know what to expect on race day.
Chip Timing
We are excited to announce that Gateway Urgent Care has provided chip timing for this year’s race. This means that each racer will wear a strap on his/her leg to track their progress and provide their finish time in the race. This will provide immediate feedback as to the racer’s finish and split times. At the end of the race these results will be available immediately and then available online. There will be a touch screen kiosk on-site and a print out with the racers information for them to take home.
Swim
The swim is the official start of the race. Swimmers will be given numbers and lined up in a single file line. The swim will be a stagger start, meaning that they will start in five-second intervals. Their official start time will not begin until they enter the water. Swimming can seem a little scary to those who don’t do it
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regularly. Our event is designed for all levels. We encourage you to bring your life jacket, floaties, or borrow one of our kickboards if that helps. We will have lifeguards available in the pool as well. The 4 to 6-year-old participants will just do one length of the pool. The 7 to 10-year-old participants will do three lengths. At each end they will duck under the lane or climb over to head back down the pool. The 11-14 year old participants will complete 5 lengths.
Bike
When they finish the swim, they will leave the pool and head to the transition area. This is where they will prepare for the bike portion of the course. They will put on their helmet (required to participate), shoes and head out on their bike. The bike course will be manned with volunteers and colorcoded arrows directing racers on the course. Course maps and videos can be found on owensboroparent.com/triathlon. Ryan Clark from Legends shared with Owensboro Parent that “it is important to inflate tires to the recommended pressure and to always check your brakes before riding your bicycle.”
Run
After completing the bicycle course, participants will enter the transition area, park their bike, and head out to the run course. Again, there will be volunteers and colored arrows directing runners on the course. We hope to see you there on July 21 for the third annual Owensboro Parent Kid’s Triathlon. Until then, get outside, take a bike ride, jump in the pool and take a walk or a jog with your child. OP
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{ paid advertorial }
think safety to ensure
summertime fun { by: dr. amit dulabh }
W
hether it’s on the lake, at the beach or by the pool,
drowning is to make sure children are supervised when
the key to summertime family fun is to make sure
they are in the water, even if they know how to swim.
everyone stays safe.
There’s no such thing as drown-proof. You always need to
be aware!
As a parent, the first thing on my mind is always
how to keep my children safe. I tell the parents of my patients—and I live by this advice myself—that the most
HERE ARE A FEW MORE TIPS FOR WATER SAFETY:
important keys to summertime safety are preparation
• Pay attention: Supervising adults should be watching
and prevention. Being ready in advance, whether it’s
children at all times. They should not be socializing,
with research, proper protective equipment or even safety
playing on their phone or drinking alcohol.
training, can help keep activities going smoothly and your
• Reach out: Parents with infants and very small children
loved ones safe.
learning to swim should always stay within arms’ reach. • Grab a jacket: If you’re on a boat or any other place
WHAT YOU CAN DO ON THE WATER
where a life jacket is needed, make sure it fits properly
The opportunities for fun in the summer are endless,
and all the buckles or straps are fastened. Life jackets
and many of those opportunities happen around water. At
don’t help if they don’t fit correctly. Adults should set a
the same time, drowning is a major concern for parents,
good example and wear their life jackets too.
and with good reason. According to the Centers for
• Gear up: Have safety equipment around the pool and
Disease Control and Prevention, accidental drowning
know how to use it. Keeping a portable phone or a cell
ranks second on causes of death for children ages 1 to 14.
phone nearby is also recommended. Water wings, floats
For children ages 1 to 4, it’s the top cause of accidental
or other buoyant play items are not substitutes for life
death.
jackets and should never be trusted for that purpose.
Those are alarming numbers, but I encourage parents
• Prevent mishaps: Fences around pools should be well-
not to fear the water. New evidence shows that children
maintained and have self-closing, self-latching gates. Even
ages 1 to 4 may be less likely to drown if they have had
smaller amounts of water, such as fishponds, buckets or
formal swimming instruction. Parents should decide
watering cans can be a drowning risk to small children.
whether to enroll an individual child in swim lessons
• Know the water: Swimming in the pool is different from
based on the child’s frequency of exposure to water,
a lake, river or the ocean. Swim only in designated areas,
emotional development, physical abilities and other
and ideally within view of a lifeguard. Children should
health conditions.
never swim in fast-moving water, such as rivers or canals.
• On the ocean: If you’re swimming in the ocean, know
The most important thing parents can do to prevent
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67
how to react to rip currents. If you’re in a rip current, don’t
• Buzz off: Biting bugs and stinging insects are often
try to fight it! Move parallel to the shore until you’re out of
found in places where people like to go. Keep them off you
the current and you can swim back to safety.
by wearing proper clothing or using insect repellant. Use
• Get trained: CPR training can save lives. Get trained on
a repellant with a DEET concentration of no more than
how to perform CPR on both children and adults.
30% but only on children ages 2 months and up.
• Ask for help: If you have a question about water safety,
• Watch the sky: Summertime weather, especially at beach
talk to your child’s pediatrician. If your child has a possible
or tropical destinations, means a risk of thunderstorms.
drowning event, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.
If you can hear thunder, the storm is close enough for lightning to be dangerous. Immediately seek shelter inside
OTHER TIPS TO REMEMBER AROUND THE WATER
a building with four solid walls that also has electrical or
On and around the water, there are some other things to
telephone wiring. If none are available, a car can be used
keep in mind. Here are some of the tips I recommend most
as shelter, but make sure not to touch any metal surfaces,
often to parents.
including door handles or the radio.
• Protect against the sun: Children under the age of six months should not be in direct sunlight. For children
If you have other questions about summertime safety or
above six months, apply plenty of sunscreen with an SPF
any safety-related topic, you can always talk to your child’s
of at least 15. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours.
pediatrician. You can also visit www.healthychildren.org,
Remember that the sun’s rays are most intense from 10
which is run by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
a.m. to 2 p.m., so limit exposure if possible.
Stay safe and have fun!
OP
Amit Dulabh, MD is a board-certified pediatrician with Owensboro Health Medical Group – Children’s Center. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an Owensboro Health provider, call 844-44-MY-ONE (844-446-9663).
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Puppy 101: How to Care for a Puppy { by: melody ann wallace }
Advice from Ms. Koller’s First Grade Class at Deer Park Elementary School and Liberty K-9 Owner/Trainer Tony Richling
What does every puppy need?
squeaky toys that can be easily torn open or damaged as these can be dangerous for your puppy. Playtime is very important and necessary for your dog. Never underestimate the power of play!
“Food and water, love and games and friends.”
Where should puppies sleep?
“It needs food, water, a bed, a home, a blanket, and a food bowl.” – Mallory – Tyson Liberty K-9: Every puppy needs love and someone to be their person. This person will provide a good home, good nutritious food, veterinary care, and teach the puppy everything it needs to know. Puppies also need to learn obedience at a young age and it is your job to teach them. Do not underestimate what your puppy can do!
What do puppies love to eat? “Bones. Steak. Chicken.” – Christina
Liberty K-9: Everything, whether it is good for them or not! Puppies need a variety of nutritious food so that they can grow healthy and strong. Natural food is always better than processed food—processed food comes out of a bag. Puppies also like natural uncooked bones. Do not give your puppy rawhide, and stay away from store bought treats. If you wish to give your dog treats, it is much healthier and less expensive to make your own. (See recipes on the next page.)
What do puppies like to play with?
-Caroline Liberty K-9: Most puppies like to play with sticks, balls, things that move, and even other puppies. Make sure that whatever your puppy plays with cannot be swallowed. Beware of 70 OWENSBORO PARENT
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“They have to sleep in a cage with a nice soft bed for them to sleep nice and quiet.” – Izzy Liberty K-9: At first, puppies should sleep in a crate. The crate should not be too big or too small for them. It is a good idea to tire the puppy out with exercise and play before introducing them. Most dogs enjoy sleeping in their crate, and it prevents them from waking up and relieving themselves on the floor or chewing up something they shouldn’t. Crate training your puppy to sleep at night helps them to be well-trained, successful pups.
How do you potty train a puppy? “When they shake.” – Alden
Liberty K-9: House breaking a dog is either easiest, or hardest thing for new dog owners. Puppies need to be watched all the time and can’t be left on their own to wander about or they will find a spot in your house to relieve themselves. You will have to take a young puppy out every 10-20 minutes. When you cannot watch the puppy, take them outside and make sure they do not have a lot of food and water before putting them in their crate. When taking them out of their crate, immediately take them outside to relieve themselves. With the dogs we train we say, “Give me a PEE,” and “Give me a POO.” When they go pee or poo, we say, “GOOD pee,” and “GOOD poo.” By giving your puppy lots of praise, rather than treats, they will quickly learn what these words mean.
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How often do puppies need to be walked?
What should you do if your puppy does something wrong?
– Atticus
Liberty K-9: You must teach and show the puppy what they can and cannot do. You should NEVER hit your puppy for any reason. If your puppy has an accident on the floor, NEVER rub their nose in it. Just say, “No,” and pick them up and take them out to the spot where they are supposed to go. If a puppy is chewing or biting on you, tell the puppy, “No,” and give the puppy something good to chew on.
Liberty K-9: When in doubt, take them out. Young puppies should be walked every 10-20 minutes, but as they get older, they will be able to hold it longer. If you are playing with your puppy, they will need to go out more often, about every 10 minutes. If they are sleeping, they will need to go out as soon as they wake up.
Where should puppies be kept when you are not home? “Put them to bed.” – Sarah
“You scold it.” - Atticus
Dog training is simply praise and correction. Praise keeps the good stuff going and correction stops the bad stuff from continuing. It is your job to show the puppy what is right and what is wrong. Have fun and enjoy your puppy, but remember you set the standards on what your puppy can and cannot do. Keep your standards high and have fun!
OP
Liberty K-9: Puppies need a safe place where they cannot get themselves into trouble. If you are going to be away for a long time, then you need a safe, secure kennel. Otherwise, they will be forced to relieve themselves in their crate, which is not a good idea. Before you get a puppy, you need to consider where they will be when you are not home. If you don’t have a kennel and the puppy will have to spend long periods of time in the crate, it may be best to wait to get a dog until you are better prepared.
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2 safe & yummy snacks for your puppy Frozen Pupsicles that humans can eat too!
Ingredients: ¼ cup natural peanut butter ½ cup plain Greek yogurt 1 ripe banana Splash of unsweetened almond milk or honey
Baby Food Dog Biscuits Ingredients: 2 – 4 ounce jars of veggies, sweet potato is best 2 – 2.5 ounce jars of chicken 2 1/2 cups of Gerber oatmeal cereal for babies
Melody Ann Wallace is a sixth grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School that has been writing since she was old enough to hold a crayon, and is currently working on her first novel.
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Directions: 1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. 2. Pour into ice cube trays. 3. Freeze until solid, about 4 hours. Remove from freezer 5-10 minutes before serving to soften. (TIP: If you don’t feel like messing with the blender, these tasty treats can also be made by adding a layer of natural peanut butter and then Greek yogurt into ice cube trays and freezing.)
Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients well until it forms a sticky dough. 3. Line a cookie sheet with a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat. 4. Spread your dough onto the cookie sheet and use a piece of wax paper, sprayed with cooking spray, to press down your dough. You can also use a rolling pin to get it nice and smooth. 5. Use cookie cutters to create shapes. 6. Place cookie sheet into the oven and cook for 20 minutes. If you desire crunchier biscuits, turn off the oven and let them cook a little longer while still monitoring them. 7. Store in the refrigerator.
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KIDS ON
Campus
{ by: melody ann wallace }
A
ccording to the U.S. Department of Education, an estimated 50 percent of college students are “firstgeneration college students, or students whose parents never enrolled in postsecondary education.” In 2014, Vicki Quisenberry, the director of the Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools, and the late Jim Carter, former executive director of the Murray State University Alumni Association, had a discussion on how to increase the number of Daviess County students attending Murray. The two alumni worked together to create a plan that would provide funding and transportation for many first generation DCPS high school students. That fall, Jim arranged funding to not only provide transportation for forty Apollo and Daviess County High School students to visit Murray State, but he also ensured that the students received lunch and college T-shirts. Since that first year, two to three buses of DCPS students have gone to visit Murray State, Kentucky Wesleyan College, Western Kentucky University, the University of Louisville, and the University of Southern Indiana. The host college or university has provided transportation, and often lunch as well. Any expenses not covered by the colleges or universities are paid for by the Foundation or by the generous donations of an anonymous local business. Kids on Campus visits are intended to be so much more than a tour around the grounds to locate the bookstore and eating area. Students are given the opportunity to speak with admissions officers, financial aid counselors, career services, and those that specialize
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in first year experience programming. Each individual student’s interest is also taken into account to ensure that they are able to visit and speak with a dean or professor that would represent their desired major. According to former Apollo High School student, Connor Dame, “While many colleges send representatives to inform students at school, most of them say the same things, leaving students with the impression that every college is the same, with only cosmetic differences. Visits, however, help students make up their minds much easier, as well as helping them identify whether the college in question would be a fit for them.”
“This was perhaps the single greatest opportunity of my life. Visiting colleges eased any thoughts of not being good enough for college, not feeling like I belonged, and completely washed away the fear of not choosing the right university. Those campus visits created a surreal feeling inside me; there were now limitless possibilities and accomplishments that my future could hold.” – Marco, former AHS senior
“All throughout high school, I was set on attending a college in Owensboro after graduation. However, God seemed to have a different plan for me. My senior year, I visited Murray State University for the first time with some of my classmates through a Kids May // June 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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BY THE NUMBERS:
kids on campus growth report In the fall of 2017 DCPS students visited: 9/25/2017 Kentucky Wesleyan College with one bus 10/20/2017 University of Southern Indiana with three buses 10/23/2017 Western Kentucky University with three buses 11/2017 University of Louisville with two buses 11/20/2017 Murray State University with two buses
Spring 2018 enrollment/admissions numbers of DCPS students:
KWC has seen a 33% increase since the Fall of 2013
USI has seen a 54% increase since Fall of 2012
WKU has seen a 42% increase since Fall of 2014
UofL has seen a 47% increase since Fall of 2014
MSU has seen a 48% increase since the Fall of 2012
If you would like to support the Kids on Campus program, please make donations to:
on Campus trip. I had no idea that trip would change the outlook I had on my future. Murray was voted the ‘Friendliest Town in America,’ and after that one visit, I couldn’t have agreed more with the title. I knew that was where I wanted to be.” – Madison Stallings, MSU junior and Elementary Education major
“We’ve seen so many students impacted by Kids on Campus trips. For countless students, these trips have solidified their plans and helped them decide which campus is right for them.” - Amanda D. Jerome, College & Career Readiness Coordinator
“The Kids on Campus program is a truly innovative program and it demonstrates the commitment of the Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools to make every effort to provide students with an opportunity to visit colleges and universities in the region. We have experienced consistent and significant enrollment of students from Daviess County… (which) has grown to more than three times the enrollment we had as recently as five years ago. I have found that we’re a great fit for many of the students in Owensboro and an affordable option as the students in Daviess County qualify for our in-state tuition rate.” – Rashad Smith,
Foundation for DCPS Attn: Becky Whitehead, CPA, Treasurer P.O. Box 21510 Owensboro, KY 42304 Additional resources that may be helpful to students preparing for college:
www.ustrive.com connects high schools students with a mentor to help guide them through the college application process
imfirst.org/colleges I’m First! is an initiative of Strive for College, an online community celebrating first-generation college students. Students can view video stories from first-gen students, read student blogs, and discover colleges that have special programs to support first-generation students.
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USI Director of Undergraduate Admissions
“Typically we open these trips up to juniors and seniors at Apollo, Daviess County High and Heritage Park High with a particular interest in recruiting students from free/reduced lunch or first generation homes. Our goal is always to fill the bus anytime we send one to a college campus, and rarely do we have a problem doing so!” - Amanda D. Jerome, College & Career Readiness Coordinator
Melody Ann Wallace is a sixth grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School that has been writing since she was old enough to hold a crayon, and is currently working on her first novel.
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discover
T
hese days, everyone seems to be talking about what they are eating…or not eating. With our increased concern about what goes into our bodies and our children’s bodies, the vitamin and supplement industry has seen tremendous growth over the past several years. It is estimated that over half of preschoolers take a daily multivitamin. The worldwide gummy vitamin industry is expected to be worth over $4 billion by the next decade. Surprisingly, most kids do not need vitamin supplements. The perception that children need vitamin supplements is often a result of picky eating habits. Parents use vitamins to fill the gaps when kids fail to eat a perfectly balanced diet. The good news is that the recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals can be ingested in even small bites of foods. So that spinach hidden within the layers of mom’s famous lasagna supplies a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals including A, K, folate, and iron. It is also important to note that many food items are enriched or fortified with vitamins and minerals. Sometimes this is done because the vitamins or minerals are lost during processing while other times it is done to enhance the nutritional value of the food. Milk has additional vitamin A and D. Many breakfast cereals contain B vitamins and folic acid while calcium is often added to orange juice. I am not advocating that parents reach for processed foods as a source of vitamin supplementation, but when your kids do eat those foods, it is helpful to know that there is some benefit. Don’t just take my word for it. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) agrees that most children do not need vitamin supplements. In fact, you can get too much of a good thing. The AAP warns that “megadoses” of vitamins can lead to adverse effects. For example, too much vitamin D can cause vomiting, poor appetite, constipation, weakness, weight loss, confusion, and heart rhythm
Vitamins:
who needs them? { by: shanna mcginnis,
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MD, FAAP
}
problems. There are a few situations when vitamin supplementation is important. Newborn infants are routinely given an injection of vitamin K immediately after birth. This is because stored
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vitamin K in newborns is minimal and this vitamin plays a critical role in the coagulation, or clotting, of blood. Without vitamin K, newborns are at a significantly higher risk of hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, a potentially fatal condition. To date, oral vitamin K at birth has not been as effective as injected vitamin K in preventing this serious complication. Another scenario when vitamin supplementation is recommended is vitamin D for breastfed infants. There are other times when vitamin or mineral supplementation may be appropriate. Individuals or families who eat a vegetarian or vegan diets may lack adequate intake of B12, calcium, iron, and zinc. People with certain gastrointestinal issues may not absorb some vitamins and minerals adequately. Celiac disease is a good
also experience vitamin or mineral deficiencies. If your child or family eats a restrictive diet based on personal preference or a medical condition, speak with your doctor or a registered dietician regarding your specific supplementation needs. According to the Food and Drug Administration, children and adolescents are most likely to have poor dietary intake of calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and vitamin E. Check out choosemyplate.gov with your kids to find foods rich in these nutrients and other ideas for eating a balanced and healthy diet. Finally, remember that many vitamins are stored so it is not necessary to eat every one of them every day. Additionally, vitamin and mineral supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet. Enjoy trying new foods
example. At the time of diagnosis, many patients have multiple vitamin deficiencies as well as weight loss due to poor calorie absorption. Once patients are treated with a gluten-free diet, their vitamin and calorie absorption improve. However, a gluten-free diet is often deficient in vitamins D, B12, folate, iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. Children with multiple food allergies could
with your kids and even when they don’t take more than a couple of bites, they are probably getting more than you think.
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OP
Dr. Shanna McGinnis board-certified pediatrician with Owensboro Health Pediatrics. She is also the mother of 3 children.
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{ paid advertorial }
parent to parent Why Vote Jennifer Hardesty Besecker for Circuit Court Clerk { by: marsha p. hardesty }
A
s
Jennifer
Hardesty
Besecker’s
proud
occasions. At an early age, she found working with the
mother, I would like to share what makes her
public very enjoyable and rewarding.
the most qualified to be your next Circuit
Over the past 21 years, Jennifer has become a
Court Clerk.
wife and a loving mother to three sons. In addition
Jennifer has always been extremely responsible,
to motherhood, Jennifer and her husband, Chris, are
energized, attentive, and vigilant. As soon as her
members of Pleasant Grove Baptist church. Jennifer
baby brother was born, Jennifer took on the role of
is a member of the choir and enjoys serving in the
big sister with gusto. As they made their way through
nursery, Lil’ Sluggers Bibles and Baseball League, and
daycare, Jennifer displayed confidence in making
anywhere else she is needed. She is also a volunteer at
sure her brother was taken care of. She wanted to be
Audubon Elementary School where her two youngest
the one to escort him into school and made it a point
sons attend.
to be involved in all his activities.
Also, at an early age, Jennifer exhibited an interest
the primary caregiver for her father, who has been
in becoming a public servant, like her parents. She
diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. This is a task
was particularly interested in the job of Circuit Court
she has taken on with love and inviable courage and
Clerk held by her father, Pat Hardesty. Her constant
empathy, constantly researching treatment.
inquisitiveness led her to be his “sidekick” after school.
With due consideration, Jennifer was allowed to work
Court Clerk. Jennifer has endless energy and is highly
part-time in the Circuit Court Clerk’s office during
motivated. She knows the value of public service,
high school. After graduating Owensboro Catholic
and she is kind and always willing to help others.
High School, Jennifer continued her employment full
Because of her 21 years of experience in the Circuit
time, being trained and participating in the various
Court Clerk’s office, along with her drive, care, and
offices of the Circuit Court Clerk. Jennifer has always
concern, I am asking for you to vote for Jennifer
been extremely energetic, working two jobs on many
Hardesty Besecker for Circut Court Clerk.
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An added responsibility Jennifer takes on is
Jennifer will work diligently as your Circuit
OP
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discover
the kids eat free list
Every Day
Golden Corral – Up to 2 99¢ kids’ buffets (ages 4-12) from 4pm til close with purchase of an adult buffet; kids 3 and under eat free
Monday
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with the purchase of an adult entrée from 4-8pm
Golden Corral – Up to 2 99¢ kids’ buffets (ages 4-12) from 4pm til close with purchase of an adult buffet; kids 3 and under eat free Catfish Willy’s – $1.99 kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal
Fazoli’s – Up to 3 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult entrée Pizza By the Guy – 1 free kids buffet for (ages 10 & under) with an adult purchase with a drink on Tuesdays from 5-8pm
TGI Fridays – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with the purchase of an adult entrée
Pizza Hut (South Frederica location) – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet from 4:30-7pm
Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn - Up to 2 kids eat free (ages 10 & under) from 4-9pm with adult buffet purchase
Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only
Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entree Culver’s – $2.99 kids meal and face painting and balloon artist EVERY Monday night!
. May // June 2018
Denny’s – Up to 2 free kids meals with an adult meal purchase
Grandy’s – 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult meal
Zaxby’s – Up to 3 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult meal from 5-8pm
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Tuesday
O’Charley’s - Free kids meal (ages 10 & under) with the purchase of adult entrée
Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entree
Wednesday
Golden Corral – Up to 2 99¢ kids’ buffets (ages 4-12) from 4pm til close with purchase of an adult buffet; kids 3 and under eat free
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McDonald’s – $1.99 Happy meals; dinein only from 4-7pm Firehouse Subs – Up to 2 kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of an adult meal Donatos – Up to 2 free individual 1-topping pizza/per child (12 and under) with the purchase of a large pizza; dinein only from 5-8pm Burger Theory (located in the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront) – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with purchase of an adult meal; breakfast, lunch & dinner
Thursday Golden Corral – Up to 2 99¢ kids’ buffets (ages 4-12) from 4pm til close with purchase of an adult buffet; kids 3 and under eat free
Saturday
Maloney’s – Free kids meals from 11am2pm Lure Seafood & Grille – Free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée Wheatgrass Juice Bar – Free kids smoothie with adult purchase Long John Silver’s – $1.99 Kids meals all day
Sunday
Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal (10 & under) per adult entrée Maloney’s – Free kids meals from 11am2pm Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11am – 3pm
Bee Bop’s – Free kids meal (12 & under) with the purchase of adult meal after 5pm
Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids (ages 10 & under) with adult purchase with a drink from 11:30am-2pm
Dairy Queen (Frederica Location) – Up to 2 $1.99 kids meals
Firehouse Subs – Kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult
Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich
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*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation.
REPORT CARD INCENTIVES
Orange Leaf – Bring in your report card and receive $1 off yogurt; a report card with straight A’s will receive a small cup free. Ritzy’s (Both locations) – Ritzy’s has a “Scoops for Scholars” program. Students can bring in their report card each grading period to earn treats for each “A.” 1A = flavored soft drink (cherry, vanilla, or chocolate) 2 As = single scoop of ice cream 3 As = your choice of a hotdog, coney, hamburger, or cheeseburger 4 As = double scoop of ice cream McDonald’s – All five Owensboro McDonald’s decided this school year that they will award a free Happy Meal to any student who gets straight As on their report card. Family Video (1212 JR Miller) – For a limited time during the summer, you can take your end of the year report card to Family Video. Your child will receive a voucher for a free movie/game rental for every A (or equivalent) they received in a core class for the year. Chuck E. Cheese in Evansville – A child can receive 10 tokens with a purchase if they bring in their report card. Sky Zone in Evansville – All A’s= 1/2 off any jump. A & B’s= $5 off any jump. Weekdays & Friday 2-7pm.
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may // june 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@tannerpublishing.com.
ONGOING LIBRARIES ROCK! SUMMER READING PROGRAM AT THE DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY DCPL will be hosting its annual Summer Reading Program from June 1 – July 31. Children 12 and younger can register at dcplibrary.beanstack.org/ reader365. After logging 1 book, they are eligible for a free prize book from the library. Every 5 books logged count as an entry for the grand prize drawings, including Kindle Fires and a Nintendo Switch. Also, the library will host fun, free, and educational activities all summer. (Go to dcplibrary.org for more information, as registration may be required for some programs.) FREE
“TINY TITANS: DINOSAUR EGGS AND BABIES” TRAVELING EXHIBITION! Bring your little ones to Owensboro Museum of Science and History to learn about how dinosaurs raised their tiny titans. Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies is a hands-on dinosaur experience for the whole family. Kids can dig for eggs, dress up like a parent dinosaur to brood their nest, and feel the texture of dinosaur eggs. Cute babies and fun dino facts will keep everyone entertained on your next trip to the museum. Babies grow fast so make sure you catch them while they are here, through September 2, 2018! Free with Museum admission and always free to Museum members! PUBLIC COAL MINE TOURS AT OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY Tuesday – Friday @ 3 p.m.; Saturdays @ 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.
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SUMMER FEEDING PROGRAM ATOWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY May 29 through August 2 (Tuesdays – Fridays) Any child 18 years or younger may partake of a free, nutritious lunch at OMSH! Meals must be eaten onsite. REIDLAND Your children will enjoy the many rides and activities available in the play area at Reid’s Orchard. Activities include the apple slider, apple racers, tractor tires, duck races, Apple Express Train and Berry Bouncer. Special weekend events will include pony or horse rides, a petting zoo, gemstone mining and more. Be sure to visit reidorchard.com for full details.
TUESDAY, MAY 1 TINY DANCERS Join the library for an exciting dance party with songs, movement, rhymes, and just plain fun. Parents and caregivers are invited to join in and show off their dance moves (ages 5 and younger). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE
nature-themed stories, songs, and crafts, designed for preschool-aged children. Registration is required; 10 a.m. at WKBG, 25 Carter Road.
THURSDAY, MAY 3 BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME DCPL’s youngest guests (ages 0 – 2) and their caregivers are invited to join in stories, songs and movement to help them prepare for a life of learning. Stay to play and socialize with a craft or other activity; 9:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Young learners (ages 3 – 5) and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, and movement to help them prepare for school. Stay to play and socialize with a craft or other activity; 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR For jumpers 7 and under, $10 for the family for 2 hours (socks not included); 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Elite Air, 606 Salem Drive; 270-478-4770.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 2
FRIDAY, MAY 4
FAMILY STORYTIME Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, and other activities designed to keep families reading together; 5:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR For $15 per family, for 2 hours (socks not included); 2 – 4 p.m.; Elite Air, 606 Salem Drive; 270478-4770.
FREE
LITTLE SPROUTS AT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN Join Daviess County Public Library in the Educational Classroom Building of the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden for FREE
SATURDAY, MAY 5 MARKET DAYS - PRESERVATION STATION Market Days are held the first weekend of every month Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sun. 12 – 5 p.m. with over 100 marketeers selling antique, unique, boutique, and
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calendar
handcrafted finds, live music and delicious food.
See Saturday, May 5 for details.
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event is Off to the Races in honor of the Kentucky Derby. Kids are encouraged to make their own stick horse and bring to market for completion and prizes.
FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR A family of 5 can jump for 2 hours for $25 (socks not included) and $12 for each additional jumper; 4 – 9 p.m.; Elite Air, 606 Salem Drive; 270-478-4770. See Thursday, May 3 for details.
HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details.
DOWNTOWN CRUISE The first Saturday of each month April through October with monthly themes. One block from the beautiful Owensboro riverfront close to shopping, restaurants. There will be chances to win door prizes, and theme winners! Enter at 3rd and Allen Streets.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
SATURDAY, MAY 12
FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS Trunnell’s will be blooming with color during this Festival. This festival will excite the entire family with activities for the young and old. Our adult guests can watch and learn about outdoor container gardening: how to plant a beautiful pot of flowers, or how to grow & cook with herbs. Adults will also enjoy sampling at our cheese bar, savory dip bar, and our special fresh herb recipes! Kids will learn how plants grow while planting a flower seed and painting a decorative pot to take home! The children can play on the farm at the Family Fun Acre! FREE Hotdogs! Adults and children under 36” are FREE, Children 36” and over are only $7 each includes flower seed planting and painting a pot to take home! 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Utica Market 1ST WEEKEND WONDERS Volunteer Session Join WKBG as they prep, plant and prune The Garden; 9 a.m. – noon; Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, 25 Carter Rd. FREE
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
SUNDAY, MAY 6 MARKET DAYS - PRESERVATION STATION
www.OwensboroParent.com
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
Thursday, May 3 for details.
TUESDAY, MAY 8 FREE LITTLE LEONARDOS Dress
for a mess and join us as we create a fun art project (Ages 2 – 5). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE WRITE ON! The
FREE FAMILY STORYTIME
Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, and other activities designed to keep families reading together; 11 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
FREE MAGIC GATHERING
Join the library for a Magic: the Gathering tournament for teens in grades 6 – 12. Whether you’re an experienced player or a newbie curious to learn more about the game, come have fun and hang out with fellow players. 3 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
library’s creative writing club for teens in grades 6 – 12. Come practice your writing skills, have fun, and meet fellow writers! Everyone is welcome to share their work at meetings, but sharing your work is NOT required. 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event is Blues & Barbecue and a Mother’s Day celebration.
THURSDAY, MAY 10
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
Thursday, May 3 for details. TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FRIDAY, MAY 11 INTERNATIONAL BAR-B-Q FESTIVAL Entertainment, cooking competition, barb-q and burgoo, and many other events for all ages! Make a visit to the “Bar-B-Q Capital of the World” a must attend event! Come for the food! Stay for the fun!! Please visitbbq.fest.com for complete listing of events, details and schedule. FREE
FREE INTERNATIONAL BAR-B-Q FESTIVAL
See Friday, May 11 for details.
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SUNDAY, MAY 13 MOTHER’S DAY v
FREE
MONDAY, MAY 7
MOMMY & ME, FLOWERS & FOOD CELEBRATION AT TRUNNELL’S Moms and their children will learn how to create an
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calendar herb container garden. Guests will choose 3 herbs of their choice. This event will include a pot, potting soil and a variety of herbs for guests to create a personalized planter to take home. Herb growing, harvesting, and cooking tips will be shared by our expert garden staff. After planting your herb container garden, guest can enjoy in our Food Celebration. All Moms will receive a 10% discount on all items throughout our market and a FREE gift. Herb Container Garden Class is Only $20 per pot (Families are welcome to plant a pot together), All Savory Sampling FREE! 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 54 Market. MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH 2018 Let Mother sit back, relax and enjoy leaving the cooking to us and treat your Mom to an elegant dining experience at the Owensboro Convention Center! Seating is available for 2 to 28 to come and enjoy a delicious brunch buffet. Plus, each mom who attends can register for a chance to win some wonderful prizes including Pandora bracelets with a sterling silver Mother filigree heart charm from Nick T. Arnold Jewelers and a massage relaxation package from Serene Relief Spa! Visit owensborocenter.com for more details and complete menu. MUM’S DAY AT THE GARDEN Mum’s Day Picnic in The Garden! Experience Western Kentucky Botanical Garden like never before—numerous tables will be set up in unique locations throughout The Garden. You are free to choose your dining experience from one of our locations—or choose your own! Advance reservations are required and the menu includes some special Kentucky treats: Kentucky Hot Brown, fresh marinated asparagus—hearts of palm—artichoke hearts, fresh fruit, Benedictine Canapes’ and delectable sweets. Call 270-993-1234 or email us at wkbg@bellsouth.net for reservation, $15/ Members and $18/Non-members and $10/ Children.
MONDAY, MAY 14 FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 FREE FAMILY STORYTIME
Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, and other activities designed to keep families reading together; 5:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
THURSDAY, MAY 17
BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE
MONDAY, MAY 21
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
Thursday, May 3 for details. FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
TUESDAY, MAY 22 FREE MINI THINKERS
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
Join the library for hands on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) activities for preschoolers. 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
FRIDAY, MAY 18
THURSDAY, MAY 24
is a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront.
series will showcase a variety of bluegrass music on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month from May through September, and some extras Fridays in September. Performances will be from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Smothers Park Overlook Stage at the north end of Frederica.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5
HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details.
SATURDAY, MAY 19
FARM ANIMAL DAY AT TRUNNELL’S Bring the family out to meet our babies in the Animal Barnyard! During this special event your children will get up close and personal with all our baby animals—chicks, ducklings, bunnies, goats, calves, pigs and more! This will be a “True” hands-on farm animal learning experience. The children will discover why these animals are important to the farm, how to care for these animals on the farm, and how to feed the baby animals. Bring your Camera because there will be plenty of time for cuddling and kissing all the baby animals! This event is only $5 per child, after the Animal Barnyard Adventure, Kids can stay and Play in the Family Fun Acre for FREE! 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Utica Market OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event is Garden Day.
See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS The
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL
See
Thursday, May 3 for details. TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FRIDAY, MAY 25
FREE THE ‘FACES OF OUR HEROES’ A
veterans tribute will be on display again this Memorial Day Weekend, May 25 – 28. The exhibit was first displayed in 2015 as an opportunity to honor deceased U.S. military veterans from throughout Owensboro. This special tribute to our veterans inside the Owensboro Convention Center includes photos and information of ‘Heroes’ from our region. FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5
is a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront.
FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS A FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
Thursday, May 3 for details. FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
TUESDAY, MAY 15 FREE EARLY EXPLORERS Join
the library as they read stories and learn about people, cultures, and art from around the world (Ages 5 and younger). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
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free outdoor concert series at the Overlook Stage at Smothers Park in Downtown Owensboro, which will feature some of the finest local and regional performing arts and entertainers, every Saturday evening, May 19 through September 29 from 7 – 9 p.m. LOB is a family event, open to the public, for all ages, and is presented by the City of Owensboro. Join us on Saturday evenings at the Overlook Stage at Smothers Park and the Allen Street Pavilion. TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details.
SATURDAY, MAY 26
FAMILY STORYTIME Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, and other activities designed to keep families reading together; 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event is Kids
www.OwensboroParent.com
THE ‘FACES OF OUR HEROES’ See Friday, May 25 for details.
Kickoff Fest. There will be inflatables, samples, lots of activities for kids and families.
FREE
SOAPBOX DERBY RALLY RACE “RACE TO REMEMBER” Come see us…Come race with us… Come help the Owensboro Lions Club serve others! Check us out on Facebook for all the latest news!
SOAPBOX DERBY RALLY RACE “RACE TO REMEMBER” See Friday, May 25 for details.
THE ‘FACES OF OUR HEROES’ See Friday, May 25 for details. FREE
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
SUNDAY, MAY 27 FREE RIVERPARK CENTER’S
MOVIES ON THE RIVER Always a family favorite—bring a lawn chair or comfy blanket, and enjoy the FREE movie outside on the RPC balcony. Disney’s Coco will begin at dusk and will be moved inside if bad weather occurs. Concessions will be available; please do not bring coolers or pets.
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MONDAY MAY 28 MEMORIAL DAY v
LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, May 19 for details. FREE
v
FREE ANNUAL
COMMEMORATION DAY OF MEMORIAL DAY 10 – 11:30 a.m. at Owensboro Sportscenter War Memorial FREE BABY/TODDLER
STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT
DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
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calendar
FREE THE ‘FACES OF OUR HEROES’ See
FREE DOWNTOWN CRUISE See
Friday, May 25 for details.
May 5 for details.
THURSDAY, MAY 31
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event Senior Day.
LIVE ANIMAL SHOW! OMSH patrons will be able to visit, touch & make photos of the live animals from Equestrian Enterprises! 10:30 a.m.; Owensboro Museum of Science and History, 122 E 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.org/ FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
at DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL
See
Thursday, May 3 for details.
Saturday
community. Sessions for ages 7 – 10 are 9 – 11 a.m.; ages 11 – 14 are 1 – 4 p.m. Register for the Nature Camp by filling out the form online or by contacting Deborah at 270-344-5096 or email to jfncdirector2017@gmail.com.
THURSDAY, JUNE 7
FREE VIDEO GAME DESIGN FREE 1ST WEEKEND WONDERS VOLUNTEER
SESSION Join WKBG as they prep, plant and prune The Garden; 9am – noon; Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, 25 Carter Rd. MARKET DAYS - PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday, May 5 for details.
Join the library for this eight-week workshop where teens will learn basic video game coding concepts by creating different types of games, including racing, platform, launching, and more! Open to grades 6 – 12; 4 – 5 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS See
FRIDAY, JUNE 1
SUNDAY, JUNE 3
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5
is a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront.
Saturday,
See Thursday, May 3 for details.
May 19 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL
MARKET DAYS - PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday, May 5 for details.
HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details.
SATURDAY, JUNE 2
TAKE A KID FISHING Registration opens 8 a.m. at Feather Landing Shelter at Panther Creek Park. Registration the day of event $2. Open to ages 3 – 15. The fishing derby will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. with the awards ceremony to commence as soon as fishing is complete. There will also be a casting and reeling competition for all age divisions. Awards presented for most fish, largest and smallest fish in each age division. Prizes will be given out to age groups 3 – 5, 6 – 8, 9 – 11, 12 – 15. Please bring life jackets for children under age 7 children. WENDELL FOSTER 5K Join Wendell Foster for the inaugural Wendell Foster 5K competitive road race! The race will be an official timed event starting at Wendell Foster and traveling around the beautiful streets of downtown Owensboro. Athletes will compete for cash awards and nice age group medals. Runners, walkers, and running strollers for people with different abilities are all welcome to compete. Distance is 3.1 miles. For registration and more information, please visit: wendellfoster5k.itsyourrace.com. 8 – 10:30 a.m. at Wendell Foster’s Young Meeting House 88 OWENSBORO PARENT
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FRIDAY, JUNE 8
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 is
BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details.
a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL
SATURDAY, JUNE 9
MONDAY, JUNE 4 FREE
TAKE A KID CAMPING This is the perfect getaway for kids that is affordable for parents and focuses on family memories! Take a Kid Camping will be Friday, June 1. Check in/set up begins at 5 p.m. at James E. Kuegel Shelter at Panther Creek Park Programs and includes bingo, 4-H programs, campfire with provided s’mores supplies and more. Cost is $5 per campsite and $2 per person.
See
Thursday, May 3 for details.
See
Thursday, May 3 for details. FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
TUESDAY, JUNE 5
MALCO SUMMER FILM FEST See Boss Baby for $2 per person. Movie starts at 10 a.m. KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Enjoy games, handson activities and delicious, nutritious foods! Children of all ages can learn fun tips about nutrition, exercise and what it means to stay healthy! Through games and hands-on food preparations, kids and parents can learn easy and nutritious food recipes together! Games and delicious free foods are also offered. KIDS IN THE KITCHEN is presented by Junior League of Owensboro, Inc.; 10:30 a.m.; Owensboro Museum of Science and History, 122 E 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.org
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6
PAINT TO THE MUSIC Let music guide your creativity as your art comes to life on canvas. For ages 6 – 12; 2 and 3 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE
JOE FORD NATURE CAMP If you love learning about nature, things in nature, and being surrounded by nature, the Nature Camp program is for YOU! We have a lot of exciting things planned as we start the new Nature Camp programs in 2018. All Nature Camp programs are offered at no charge. However, it is requested a $5 donation be given per child per class session to be able to continue Joe Ford’s wish of offering nature-related programs to our
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s events is Jam Fest. Enter your own Jams and jellies into the JAM competition. OWENSBORO LIONS CLUB SOAP BOX DERBY Ben Hawes Park, Soapbox Derby Track, 400 Booth Field Road FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS
See Saturday,
May 19 for details. TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
MONDAY, JUNE 11
SCHOOL’S OUT SCIENCE CAMPS Looking for a unique Summer experience? School’s Out Summer Camp hosted by Kentucky Science Center and held at the Owensboro Museum of Science and History from June 11th – 15th & July 16th – 20th, kids can explore a variety of engineering topics from LEGOS to projects-based engineering challenges! LEGO Engineers: (Ages 6 – 7) Put your imagination to the test as you build, design, and engineer using these favorite construction tools—LEGOS®! WeDo LEGO Engineers - (Ages 8 – 9) Engineer a story line with animation and code! Explore the natural world around us and build robotic animals to live in it. Finish the week out by designing and constructing a zoo with moving LEGO® robots. Project Engineers: (Ages 10 – 11) Gain insight into the world of projects engineering. Build on the fundamentals of engineering as project engineering had to in the Ohio River Bridges Project. Create www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
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calendar
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 15
FRIDAY AFTER 5 is a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. FREE
SUNDAY, JUNE 17 FATHER’S DAY v
your own scale models, blue prints, and environmental impact studies; Owensboro Museum of Science and History, 122 E 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.org
HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details.
FREE
FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
TUESDAY, JUNE 12
FREE HENNA TATTOOS FOR TEENS
Join the library to design and apply your own temporary henna tattoo! Open to grades 6 – 12; 6 – 7:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org MALCO SUMMER FILM FEST See Chronicles of Narnia for $2 per person. Movie starts at 10 a.m.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13
FREE WILD RHAPSODYJoin
the library for a wild time with an interactive reader’s theatre performance and crafts. For ages 6 – 12; 2 and 3 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org JOE FORD NATURE CAMP See Wednesday, June 6 for details.
THURSDAY, JUNE 14
CAMP WHEEZE-AWAY This is an educational day camp aimed at empowering children with asthma—and their parents—to develop the skills needed to manage their own asthma, make healthy choices and lead normal, physically active lives. During Camp Wheeze-Away, children participate in interactive educational activities, disguised as fun and games, which teach them how to manage their asthma. This year’s camp will be held June 14 – 16 in a medically supervised environment at the Owensboro Health Healthpark. If you are interested in sending your child to Camp Wheeze-Away, please owensboroallergy. com to download the Camp Wheeze-Away Registration Packet.
SATURDAY, JUNE 16
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event is Father’s Day. 100 MEN WHO COOK This unique fundraiser will feature 100 community “chefs” who will prepare their favorite appetizer, side dish, entrée or dessert just for you! Join these 100 local chefs and support the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club and the Owensboro Family YMCA. Individual tickets are $60 each or $500 for a table of eight. Ticket information call Sarah O’Bryan at 270-691-2022. LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, May 19 for details. FREE
DAD’S “ROCK”: DADDY & ME LUNCH & ROCK CRAFT AT TRUNNELL’S During this event Dads and their little ones will enjoy the day together having a delicious healthy lunch from Trunnell’s Deli! Each child will get to create a special Father’s Day Rock Craft with Dad to give to him for Father’s Day! Event is only $5 per person includes lunch and rock craft. Picture op’s will be available so bring your camera! All Dads will receive a FREE gift,10% discount on all items throughout the market, and a Farmstatic time with their Children! 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 54 Market
Thursday, June 7 for details.
DAD & ME: ROUND ABOUT THE FARM AT TRUNNELL’S During this event your child and you will get to mine for gems in the mining sluice adventure discovering rocks and minerals to take home with an identification card! Each child will create a special Father’s Day Rock Craft to give to Dad and More! Event is only $7 per child includes rock lesson, mining bucket, and rock craft. All children and Dads can spend the rest of the day playing together in the Family Fun Acre for FREE! All Dads will receive a FREE gift, 10% discount on all items throughout the market, FREE Admission to the Family Fun Acre, and a Farm-static time with their Children! 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Utica Market
BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS See Thursday, May 24 for details.
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE VIDEO GAME DESIGN AT DCPL See
FREE
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
www.OwensboroParent.com
MONDAY, JUNE 18
BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE
FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
TUESDAY, JUNE 19
ANIME EXTRAVAGANZA Anime and manga fans are invited to join the library for an evening of anime shows, crafts, games, and snacks. Open to grades 6 – 12; 6 – 7 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE
MALCO SUMMER FILM FEST See Captain Underpants for $2 per person. Movie starts at 10 a.m. KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Enjoy games, hands-on activities and delicious, nutritious foods! Children of all ages can learn fun tips about nutrition, exercise and what it means to stay healthy! Through games and hands-on food preparations, kids and parents can learn easy and nutritious food recipes together! Games and delicious free foods are also offered. KIDS IN THE KITCHEN is presented by Junior League of Owensboro, Inc.; 10:30 a.m.; Owensboro Museum of Science and History, 122 E 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.org
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20
FREE ROCK PAINTING Learn
about different kinds of rocks, then enjoy a story and paint a rock to take home. For ages 6-12; 2 and 3 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org JOE FORD NATURE CAMP See Wednesday, June 6 for details.
THURSDAY, JUNE 21
LIVE ANIMAL SHOW! OMSH patrons will be able to visit, touch & make photos of the live animals from Equestrian Enterprises! 10:30 a.m.; Owensboro Museum of Science and History, 122 E 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.org FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL
See Thursday, May 3 for details.
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calendar FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See Friday, June 22 for details
FREE
Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE VIDEO GAME DESIGN AT DCPL See
MONDAY, JUNE 25
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL See
Thursday, June 7 for details.
FREE
TEEN TRIVIA NIGHT: BOOK LOVERS’ EDITION Test your YA knowledge with a night of bookish trivia! We will have pizza, prizes, and free books for everyone who participates. Open to grades 6 – 12; 6 – 7 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
Thursday, May 3 for details.
DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL WITH BALLOONS OVER THE GARDEN AT WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN See Friday, June 22 for details.
DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See Friday, June 22 for details.
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
FRIDAY, JUNE 22
DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL WITH BALLOONS OVER THE GARDEN AT WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN This week-long festival returns with a calendar full of activities throughout the week. Hot Air Balloons will take flight Friday evening. Saturday will offer a balloon glow, children’s activities, food and lots of fun. ANNIE, JR. PRESENTED BY TWO Based on “Little Orphan Annie”, this is the youth version of the delightful musical, ANNIE. Performed by local actors of grades 3 – 12. We know our friends will enjoy the show! Empress Theater on June 22, 23, 29, 30 at 7 p.m.; June 24 and July 1 at 2 p.m. FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 is
a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details.
SATURDAY, JUNE 23
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event is Taste of the Market Neighborhood Alliance Day/ Triplett Twist Day. FREE TIE-DYE FOR TEENS Make
your own tie-dyed t-shirt at the library! All supplies, including t-shirts will be provided. Registration required. Open to grades 6-12; 2 - 4 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See Friday, June 22 for details. ANNIE, JR. PRESENTED BY TWO See Friday, June 22 for details.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME AT DCPL
FAMILY NIGHT AT ELITE AIR See Monday, May 7 for details.
TUESDAY, JUNE 26
MALCO SUMMER FILM FEST See Prince of Egypt for $2 per person. Movie starts at 10 a.m. DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See Friday, June 22 for details.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27
2018 ROMP FEST The 15th annual ROMP Festival will take place June 27 – 30. Held in Daviess County’s Yellow Creek Park, a 150-acre facility famous for its nature trails, winding creek and fishing lake, and sweeping tree-lines, plays host to ROMP each year. ROMP a four-day music, camping, and art festival will feature over 30 top bluegrass, folk and Americana acts led this year by iconic artist, Alison Krauss, country and bluegrass music legend, Ricky Skaggs, Sam Bush, and Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame artist, Doyle Lawson and many more great artists! Visit rompfest.com for complete daily lineup schedule, tickets, workshops and camping information. FREE SOUNDS OF SLIME Join
JOE FORD NATURE CAMP See Wednesday, June 6 for details.
SUNDAY, JUNE 24
DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See Friday, June 22 for details.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 29
2018 ROMP FEST See Wednesday, June 27 for details. Thursday, May 24 for details.
ANNIE, JR. PRESENTED BY TWO See Friday, June 22 for details. HOMESCHOOL HOP AT ELITE AIR See Friday, May 4 for details. DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See Friday, June 22 for details.
SATURDAY, JUNE 30
OWENSBORO REGIONALS FARMER’S MARKET Every weekend the market is a great place for families to visit and shop together. This Saturday’s event Ag Day. There will be lots of ag equipment and farm activities for kids and families. TRUNNELL’S 10-YEAR BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION ON THE FARM Come enjoy all Trunnell’s 10-year Birthday festivities! Bring the entire family spend the day at the farm and stay late for the movie and firework show that will begin at dusk (Bring your blankets). Trunnell’s will be sampling every delicious flavor we have to offer. And what’s a birthday without cake? The first 250 to visit us on our birthday celebration will receive free birthday cake! Anyone celebrating their own 10th birthday or anniversary during the month of June will receive free admission to the Family Fun Acre on June 30th when you provide proof of your big milestone (i.e. license, birth certificate, etc.). Movie will be announced closer to event! 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. at Utica Market 2018 ROMP FEST See Wednesday, June 27 for details. ANNIE, JR. PRESENTED BY TWO See Friday, June 22 for details.
THURSDAY, JUNE 28
FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS
is a summer-long series of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. 2018 ROMP FEST See Wednesday, June 27 for details.
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details. RIVERPARK CENTER’S MOVIES ON THE RIVER Always a family favorite—bring a lawn chair or comfy blanket, and enjoy the FREE movie outside on the RPC balcony. The LEGO Batman Movie will begin at dusk and will be moved inside if bad weather occurs. Concessions will be available; please do not bring coolers or pets.
TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details.
See
Thursday, May 3 for details.
LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, May 19 for details.
FREE
VIDEO GAME DESIGN AT DCPL See Thursday, June 7 for details. FREE
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5
BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details. FREE
our mad scientists for ooze and ahhs and messy fun. For ages 6 – 12; 2, 4 and 6 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
FREE
BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME AT DCPL See Thursday, May 3 for details.
LIVE ON THE BANKS See Saturday, May 19 for details. FREE
See TODDLER TIME AT ELITE AIR See Thursday, May 3 for details. www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
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www.OwensboroParent.com
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www.OwensboroParent.com
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