owensboro parent - august 2013
DESCRIPTION
Owensboro Parent, the FREE guide to raising a family in Owensboro, Kentucky. Featured Articles: The Lessons of Summer, Parental Control, Back to School Roller Coaster, Taking the Leap, Don't Be a Stranger, The New Owensboro, Photos from Facebook, Lights Camera Taken, Grief Isn't Just for Grownups, Owensboro Air Show, Your Child's Best Vision, Course for Success, and It's Fun to Be 5. Contributors: Christina Dalton, Dr. Brian Gannon, Casey Hamilton, Danny May, Jaime Rafferty, Jessica Albers, Christy Ramey and Lora Wimsatt.TRANSCRIPT
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 1www.OwensboroParent.com
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 2www.OwensboroParent.com
3 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
4 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
What a great year it’s been. Looking back over the last 12 issues of Owensboro Parent reminds me of all the great stories we’ve been able to share.
We started with a Lane Goodwin cover story in October. That issue is one of my favorites. The way it came together was remarkable. The magazine was due to the printer on Monday morning and on the Friday morning before I got a phone call. “Have you seen our Facebook?” No, I hadn’t. I pulled it up and to my surprise hundreds and eventually thousands of our readers were lobbying for us to put Lane on the cover, to put a hold on our Cover Contest and give him the spotlight. We couldn’t have agreed more. But we had less than 72 hours to go to print. Could we really change our entire magazine?
We knew if we were going to focus on childhood cancer we had to find as many children in our region as we could who were battling this monster. So we set out with the help of readers to find them all and interview all the families. It was our 72-hour mission to find their stories and find out how we could help them by telling their stories.
With only hours to go, we received an amazing portrait painted by Aaron Kizer. We worked it into the cover, edited over a dozen stories and got the October issue to the printer.
The response was phenomenal! We shipped magazines all over the country and thousands of readers read and shared the story online. The impact and support for those with childhood cancer still continues today.
We hope to continue sharing amazing stories and listening to what you feel is important. That’s why we are exciting to announce our new magazine: Owensboro Living. Owensboro Living is a culmination of everything we have learned about what our readers love in Owensboro Parent but will now focus on our entire community. We know Owensboro Parent will continue to grow and we hope you are as excited about Owensboro Living as we are!
Stay tuned!
Jason [email protected]
Publisher/Creative Director
Jason Tanner
Editor
Ashley Sorce
Advertising Sales
Robert Williams
Graphic Designer
Taylor West
Distribution Manager
Steven Morris
Contributors
Katie Albers
Dr. Brian Gannon
Christina Dalton
Elaine Martin
Danny May
Jaime Rafferty
Melody Wallace
Lora Wimsatt
Printing
Greenwell Chisholm
Owensboro, Kentucky
Contact Information
Owensboro Parent Magazine
PO Box 23237
Owensboro, KY 42304
(270) 314-5240
www.owensboroparent.com
facebook.com/owensboroparent
twitter.com/owensboroparent
issuu.com/owensboroparent
Cover Photo
Jason Tanner
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from the publisher
august 2013
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 5www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
the lessons of summer [08]
parental control [10]
back to school roller coaster [12]
taking the leap [14]
don’t be a stranger [16]
the new owensboro [18]
photos from Facebook [26]
[28] lights, camera, taken
[30] grief isn’t just for grownups
[32] owensboro air show
[35] your child’s best vision
[37] course for success
[38] it’s fun to be 5
[40] august calendar[38]
[37]
[18]
[35]
august features
[28]
[16]
6 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
august 2013
August is a big month for Owensboro Parent! We are celebrating
our 25th issue-- two years making this magazine for Owensboro!
To celebrate, we asked you what you like best about our magazine.
Here are some of our favorite answers. (And thanks for all the
support you’ve shown us these last two years.)
parent talk
I love that it always seems like you know exactly what I need. When we
were looking for answers to dealing with tantrums you gave me seven ways.
And now we’re planning our oldest sons 2nd birthday party and you gave
me great ideas on how to do fabulous and affordable. It’s a magazine that’s
really geared toward moms like me.
- Brittany Molina
I love the calendar. It’s a one stop shop full of useful info on all of the family friendly
events in Owensboro. This magazine is truly a gift for parents.
- Laurna Wimsatt Strehl
I think it’s a wonderful magazine! I’m always telling people where to pick
them up. I love love Christina Dalton’s Questions and Answers. They always
have useful information and make me laugh too! Happy 2nd Birthday and
many more...
- Angela Maxwell
I love everything about the magazine! My favorite parts are the articles and
pictures of local families even if I don’t know them personally. But I love it
when I do. Awesome job and Happy 2nd Birthday!
- Becky Ford
I love everything about this magazine as well. I like the stories, pictures,
question & answer discussions, and the local advertising. Each month has
been beneficial as a parent, business owner, member of the community,
early childhood educator, and/or a college instructor in the education
department. I always pick up two copies .... one for me & one for Brescia
University Education Department. Congratulations & I look forward to
many more successful issues!
- Jennifer Brey
Seeing the smiles on the faces of the local kids featured in the articles.
- Sandra Mullikin
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 7www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
8 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
It’s been a long summer, and now the store aisles have been
cleared of big plastic coolers, racks of patriotic bunting and
tubes of sunblock. They are filled with neat packets of pencils,
all lined up bright and yellow; pocket folders splashed with
images of Superman and the pretty, pouty girl from “The
Hunger Games”; and a dizzying selection of backpacks in which
to haul it all back to school.
Children dash frantically back and forth from the shelves to
the shopping cart, snatching up boxes of crayons, index cards
and protractors even as their mothers call after them that the
protractor they’d bought last year should still be good, shouldn’t
it?
The answer, in a word, is “no.” Whether that’s because they
have no idea where last year’s protractor is – having never used
it anyway – or because they do know where it is, which happens
to be covered with glitter and ribbons and construction paper
to look like a rainbow, which was one of those bored-summer-
afternoon art projects that always seem like such a good idea at
the time.
Somewhere between the argument about whether the
child really needs an iPad in order to successfully navigate
elementary school, and the near-tearful meltdown over whether
the most expensive calculator is any more likely to provide the
correct answer every time, there is an offhand remark about the
increased level of difficulty in curriculum from last year’s grade
to this year’s grade.
Well, of course, that makes perfect sense. As children
move through their educational careers, of course their levels
of understanding, skill and knowledge increase. As they
grow and learn, of course they are capable of greater depth of
comprehension.
That’s what learning is all about – of course: Starting with
the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic, building on those
foundations of literacy and numeracy, expanding into the
sciences and social studies, the arts and all the other subject
areas.
So that, by the time a child progresses from preschool or
kindergarten through completion of elementary, middle and
high schools, he or she has learned, well, everything he or she
needs to know in order to move on to college and career.
{ b y : l o r a w i m s a t t }
family life
the lessons ofsummer
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 9www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
{ b y : l o r a w i m s a t t }
That’s how it works.
We can all be thankful for schools and teachers who are
dedicated to education, who are dedicated to students – kids –
and their futures.
But we never want to forget the classroom of summer
vacation, and the lessons it teaches – lessons that also last a
lifetime.
Riding your bicycle just a little bit further each day than the
day before, until you find yourself standing, knees trembling,
at the top of Deadman’s Hill, where the kid next door swears in
a breathless whisper that another kid who used to live on your
block hit the gravel at the bottom and became the hill’s grim
namesake … but you take off anyway, feet and peddles a crazy
blur, and you flash through the scattered gravel and brake, safe
and triumphant, on the other side.
Spending a whole day at the city swimming pool, fishing a
damp dollar bill out of your sneakers so you can eat nacho chips
and cheese out of a plastic tray for lunch, going home in the late
afternoon with wrinkled fingers and pink shoulders.
Rooting excitedly through the tall weeds growing up around the
foundation of the house until you find the nest where your cat
has hidden her kittens, cooing and stroking the soft fur on
their tiny heads with a gentle finger, and coming back the next
morning to stand in somber silence as one of the kittens lays
still and cold even as the anxious mother nudges it and mews
in grief.
Finding a thick chunk of chalk, perfect for marking four-
square and hopscotch patterns on the street, where balls bounce
and kids giggle and hop, ever alert for the warning cry of “Car!”
Watermelon seed spit wars. Shrieks of laughter as you leap
through the spray of the water hose. Board games in the shade
of the back porch. Peering in wonder at the glow of a firefly
cupped in your sweaty hands. Chasing the ice cream truck,
feet slapping on the hot pavement, then walking home slowly
sucking on the frozen goodness of a rocket-pop. Snaking your
hand through the diamond on the neighbor’s chainlink fence to
pick a flower from his garden to give to your mother. Fastening
together all the belts you can find in dad’s closet to make a
harness so you can hook up your dog to pull the wagon.
Realizing – even if it’s many years later – that some of the
most important lessons you ever learned were learned during
summer vacation.
Lora Wimsatt is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday
blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.
OP
summer
10 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
family life
Q: I have an 8-year-
old boy and he has
trouble reading. He
gets so frustrated. I
feel helpless at times
and his frustration
comes through in
misbehaving and
anger. Is there
anything I can do to
help him?
A: This is a very common problem with
children. I want to point out a positive
for you first. It’s so good that you have
recognized the issue and you are aware
that his misbehaving could be a result
of a reading disability. Some children
go years and no one realizes that there
is a learning disability and not just a
bad attitude. Imagine for just a second
not being able to read very well and
functioning in this world. It would be
so difficult and frustrating. There are
several things that you can be doing to
help your child. You can read to him
and more importantly have him read
to you. I would recommend that you
make sure the books are on a level
that he is comfortable with reading
and then raise the difficulty as he
improves. I would talk to his teachers
and make sure that they are aware of
your concerns and let the school know
that you want to be involved and find
out how you can help him outside of
school. Something I
heard once and
I have always
thought was a
brilliant idea
is to have your child watch TV with
the sound off and turn on the closed
captioning. This will force them to
read the words to figure out what is
going on. You can take turns reading
the words, but the more he practices
the better reader he will become. It’s
a good idea to make sure it’s one of his
favorite shows too. Just the fact that
you have recognized that his behavior
is linked to his reading ability is
wonderful and I think you are most
certainly on the right track!
Q: I work with children in poverty
and my job is very hard. I really want
to make a difference but at the end of
most days I’m not sure that I have.
The children I work with range in
age from young to older kids. I know
that I’m only at work for a set amount
of time. What am I missing?
A: Well, I’m sure if you are working
with children in poverty your heart
is in the right place because you are
probably not getting rich in doing so.
The fact that you asked this question
shows me that your heart is in the
right place and that you are probably
already making a difference in many
of the lives you are working with,
but you may not see it. I have been
working with children and families
in need for the last 15 years. It is
difficult because you probably are
not going to see the difference you
are making, but I promise it sounds
like you are helping. Here is the
advice that I give to
you. People will
parentalcontrol
{ Q & A w i t h c h r i s t i n a d a l t o n , M S S W, C S W }
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 11www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
leave you in a positive or negative manner. I feel that it is our
job to make that experience as positive as possible. Regardless of
their situation at home, you can make their lives better when you
are together. This is something that I can say and it’s easy to say,
but doing it is another story. It’s not the easiest thing to do. But
the fact still remains that people, everyone we come into contact
with will leave us in a negative or positive manner. If you know
that you are doing your best then that is all you can do. The more
positive interactions you have the stronger your relationships will
be. You’re doing great!
Q: School is starting soon and I am dreading getting my
children back into the school routine. I have two children
ages 7 and 12. What advice do you give to parents who hate
mornings?
A: I don’t think there is any advice for this topic other than you
have to suffer through it. I’m sorry I know that is terrible advice,
but I am one of those parents too. When your children are on
summer vacation their regular routine is off to some degree. It’s
very difficult for everyone in the house to get back into the school
routine. Some people will tell you to start early and practice
getting ready by going ahead and putting them to bed early. In
my opinion, why inflict this pain on yourself for practice?! You
know it’s coming…LOL! Seriously, I think once they start school
you have to enforce a regular bedtime. You have to bring order
to the family. This is when homework has to be done, bath and
bed. It’s going to be hard but it usually gets better and it takes
time. My friends and family know that when school starts I may
be tired and irritable for the next four to six weeks and then I will
return to normal. I wish you the best of luck and lots of sleep!
Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is the Family Resource Center Coordinator for
Daviess County Public Schools.
OP
12 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
The Back-to-School season and I have
a difficult relationship. It is not easily
defined, and the feelings I have toward this
August “holiday” change throughout my
lifetime. Confused? Let me try to explain.
One of my earliest memories related to
Back-to-School has to do with watching my
older brother walk to the corner holding
his brand new Land of the Lost lunchbox,
steps away from getting on the dazzling
school bus. I was watching him through
our kitchen window, weeping because I was
not yet old enough to attend the party, a.k.a.,
kindergarten. I was devastated that he got to
hang with all the neighborhood kids while I
was stuck at home with Mom and our little
brother who stuck walnuts up his nose.
Well, as you can guess, I grew older, and of
course, my feelings of that first day of school
changed accordingly. I learned that first day
was definitely one that caused mourning, but
now I ached for the privilege of staying home.
Why did I think being in a room with 20 other
kids learning how to hold a pencil would be
more fun than lying on shag carpet, playing
Combat on our Atari?
I thought my rapport with the dreaded
back-to-school demon ended when I
graduated college. Surely, my life would no
longer be counted in terms of grading periods
or semesters, right? I was no longer a student;
I was now an adult! The sad thing about that
statement is that I was now an adult – the
days of summer breaks were over. The real
world offered no 3 month hiatus, so when I
saw the school buses driving down the roads
in August, I somewhat (now, shamefully)
remember thinking, “Na-na-na-na-na – your
fun time is over now too!”
Motherhood eventually came along, and
again my perspective on back-to-school
changed. For the first time, I was happy
when school started up again. I had the
blessing of being able to stay home with
my kids when they were young, so that first
bell ring of August meant that the town was
returned to preschoolers again. My toddler
could be at the park without me being afraid
of an older child having fun but accidentally
running over her trying to beat his friends
to the slide. The library had a better movie
selection because summer family car trips
were over. In my mind, the world was at peace
again.
Fast forward five years, and I now have a
child entering school! How did this happen???
One minute we were teaching her to drink
from a sippy cup, and now she is leaving me?
Yep, it was time to switch emotions again.
The tears came, but I took a deep breath and
back to schoolrollercoaster
family life
{ b y : e l a i n e m a r t i n }
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 13www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
watched her board the bus. It seemed like an eternity, but she did
return at the end of the day with a huge smile, so excited about
growing older. School turned into a time of adventure, both
socially and academically. With each passing school year and
her sisters eventually following along, I saw those first days turn
into more and more of a time to see what the Lord had planned
for them. Who would be their teachers? Their best friends?
What would they be learning this grade? I took pictures and
scrapbooked them, noting their growth and whispering prayers
of thankfulness.
With the beginning of the 2013-2014 school year, my feelings
are ones of wanting to search for a Life Remote Control. My
oldest is now in 10th grade, with the others in 8th and 5th.
Where is the pause button?! How many more years will I have to
help them buy backpacks, try on new clothes, and attend parent
teacher conferences? My stomach is in knots as I realize the day
is coming way too soon when I will be exchanging gentle morning
wake-up times for college road trips.
For today at least, join me as I resolve to live firmly in the
present, thankful for a wonderful summer with my kiddos and
mindful that these stressful days of shuffling kids around will
soon be gone. Embrace the chaos of kids rushing school, tidy
up the house, then pour a fresh cup of coffee and watch a few
episodes of your favorite show on Netflix with your rediscovered
“me” time. You’ll miss this moment soon enough…probably
around 5:00 when you’re rushing to warm up last night’s meatloaf
between soccer practice and composing 3 point essays.
Martin views each day as an adventure in her roles as wife, mom, owner of Pigtails and
Cowlicks, and writing coach at Meadow Lands Elementary School.
{ b y : e l a i n e m a r t i n }
OP
14 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
Middle school is a new adventure that can be both exciting
and frightening for students, as well as their parents. It
is a time in a child’s life when they are asked to make more
independent choices and demonstrate their individuality,
which can sometimes leave parents feeling like they are no
longer a necessary factor in the equation. The important thing
to remember is that our children are going to continue to grow
and mature, regardless of how much we fight the process. It is
our job as parents to be knowledgeable about the challenges
that they may encounter and make sure that we are nearby for
guidance when needed.
A Middle-Schooler’s Biggest Fears:
Making New Friends and Fitting In
Most students will be entering a middle school that blends
students together from several local elementary schools. This
means that your child will most likely know some friends going
into middle school, but will have the opportunity to make many
more new ones. PBSkids.org offers some great advice about
being open-minded to making new friends in middle school,
“Although it’s natural to spend time with people who share your
interests, try to keep yourself open to everyone, despite how they
might dress or spend some of their time.”
Your child may go through different stages and want to wear
or try new things. Have an open mind to these requests, while
still maintaining the importance of such values as modesty,
integrity, and character.
Learning the Layout
Many students are afraid that they will not be able to find
their classes on time and will find themselves lost, late, and
embarrassed. Once you receive your child’s schedule, take
the time to take a tour with them around the school in order
to help them locate their classes. In order to help foster more
independence, send an older sibling or trusted friend that has
taking the leap!
family life
{ b y : m e l o d y w a l l a c e }
At age 22, Kendall Quisenberry has accomplished more than most of us have ever imagined. She is a senior at DePauw University, a Fulbright Scholar, and is about to embark on a teaching venture to her seventh country via
an English Teaching Assistantship.
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 15www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
attended the school to show them around and help them feel more
comfortable.
Cracking the Code
For some reason, the idea of navigating that combination lock can
cause the butterflies to stir in even the most confident of children.
Practice working a combination lock at home, and then have your
student practice on their own locker at school. By supplying the
minimal necessary items to help decorate and organize their new
locker you can help ease the transition and embrace individuality.
Keep in mind that the main purpose is to provide a functional and
organized space for them to store items.
Dressing Out
Another fear that students have is that of having to dress out
in front of others in gym class. As students’ young bodies begin
to shape and mature, so do feelings of modesty and insecurity.
Assure your child that the other students are also worried of being
embarrassed and in the same hurry to get to class, so there shouldn’t
be any time for gawking. You can also take some proactive steps,
such as teaching proper hygiene (making sure they carry and know
how to use deodorant), and taking the time to ensure undergarments
are laundered and in good condition. If showers are an option or a
requirement, take the time to discuss the best ways to be efficient
and modest when others are around. The best thing that you can do
is to make sure your child knows to dress out daily, follows the rules,
and has a positive attitude about gym class, even if it means having
a good sense of humor to avoid embarrassment.
Level of Difficulty
Many students (and parents) are afraid of the level of increased
difficulty now that they are taking middle school level classes. The
most important thing that you can do for your child is to help ensure
that they are organized at school and at home. Continue to review
their agenda book or planner each night for homework assignments,
make sure that both assignments that need to be completed and
finished assignments have their place, as well as ensuring that there
is a quiet place at home to complete their homework. Keep an open
line of communication with your child’s teachers via email and
be aware of the various before and after school resources that are
available to provide additional support.
The most important thing that you can do for your child during
these transitional years is to be an empathetic encourager and a
listening ear. You are their biggest fan, so it is only fitting that you
cheer them on in their next big venture!
Melody Wallace is a teacher at DCMS who finds new blessings each day in
her roles as teacher, wife, mom, and stepmom.
OP
16 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
When we send our children back to school on August 7th, we
place our most precious people into the hands of complete
strangers. We trust these strangers to teach our children correct
information, provide them with structure, and discipline them with
fairness and consistency. We trust these strangers to protect our
children from danger, comfort them in crisis, and mediate for them
during conflict. We trust these strangers to provide our children with
amazing experiences and to build relationships with our children that
will give them the confidence to blossom. We trust these strangers
because they are teachers, and they are trained for this honorable
position. However, when we’re talking about our precious children,
shouldn’t we know and trust teachers beyond the professional title?
This school year, as your children prepare to meet new teachers, be
proactive about getting to know and encouraging these important
people in your child’s life.
Introduce Yourself
With your child’s input, prepare a letter about your child and your
family. Include any information you think the teachers should
know about your child: personality, likes, dislikes, strengths, and
weaknesses. In this letter you might also share information about
yourself and your family. You might talk about your special skills or
hobbies, any special services or connections that you might provide,
and what ways you would like to serve the school. Be as specific and
creative as possible. You never know when your hidden talents might
be needed.
don’t be astranger reach out to the new teachers in your child’s life
family life
{ b y : k a t i e a l b e r s }
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 17www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
{ b y : k a t i e a l b e r s } Display Your Family Photo
Many teachers display pictures of their own families on their desks
and bulletin boards. You might send your child to school with a photo
of your family and ask the teacher if it could be displayed as well. That
way, the teacher can put a face with your notes and emails.
Give Teacher Supplies
As you are shopping for school supplies, think also about teacher
supplies. Teachers are always in need of post-it notes, dry-erase
markers, transparent tape, staples, and paperclips. Surprise your
child’s new teacher with a little gift bag of teacher supplies.
Wish Them Good Luck
Teachers get nervous on the first day of school too, but all of them have
been in the school building days before the first one preparing for the
kids. Why not mail a “Good Luck!” card to the school for your child’s
new teacher the week before school starts? In it you can wish them a
stress-free first day with the kids and offer your contact information.
You might even include a coupon for a free coffee at a restaurant near
the school so the teacher can start his or her day off with a smile.
Provide Positive Feedback
Throughout the year, as you are talking with your child about what
goes on at school, take a minute to provide positive feedback to your
teachers. This one is huge. Teachers don’t always know if their lessons
have made an impact with their students. You could really make a
teacher feel great by emailing that your child was excited about the
lesson that day.
Spread Some Cheer
Surprise your child’s teachers with a special “Make it Through
Monday” or “Thank Goodness It’s Friday” treat like a candy bar or a
loaf of bread. Even a bottle of water with a packet of single-serve drink
mix would be a refreshing delight.
Pray Blessings Upon Them
Finally, and most importantly, pray for your child’s teachers. Teaching
is a rewarding profession, but it is also a tough one. Pray blessings of
strength and peace on these special people that spend so much time
with your special people.
Be the first to reach out to your child’s new teachers this year and see
how quickly these strangers become your friends.
Katie Albers is married to Josh and mommy to Lance, age 4, and Mallory, age 2.
She is the Media Specialist and Yearbook Advisor at DCMS and Creative Director
of the Albers Family.
OP
18 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
{ a r t i c l e b y : d a n n y m a y | p h o t o s b y : a d a m p a r i s }
community
owensborothe new
a look back at the first year of Smothers Park
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 19www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
In the Beginning…
Mayor Ron Payne freely admits that there were
varying degrees of mixed emotions when the idea of
a multi-million dollar playground was mentioned
as part of a complete overhaul and expansion of
Smothers Park. If you kept up with the scathing
opinions about the costly concrete trees in the
“Reader’s Write” section of the newspaper or
around the water-cooler at work, then you know
exactly what I’m talking about. But in the year
since the opening of the new Smothers Park and
after the first phase of downtown redevelopment
was completed, Mayor Payne says his office
“has heard nothing but praise for what we have
accomplished.”
I’ll admit I was critical of the price tag of those
concrete trees when I heard about them too, but
the first time I actually saw them it made sense.
They’re not just pointless decorations; they are the
structural support that holds the entire three-level
playground together. And the mixed emotions
Owensboro citizens may have once felt have faded
away. People are now talking about downtown
Owensboro like never before. That playground
has become a destination in and of itself, not to
mention the centerpiece to the entire downtown
revitalization project.
Something for Everyone
Many people have found that it’s easy to spend
hours on a visit to Smothers Park. According to
Public Events Director Tim Ross, that was the
idea from the beginning. “The design for the space
down here at Smothers Park is really meant to
have something for everyone. There are amenities
for all ages. Parents and kids especially love the
playground. Everyone can enjoy the viewing
fountains, the swings, and the overlook. And
many of our older generation love the Shelton
Memorial, which actually gets a tremendous
amount of visitors because it’s such a beautiful
monument and it gives such great respect to our
POWs, MIAs, and veterans.”
Attendance
As far as attendance and usage at the park, Ross
says “We’ve been very pleased! People enjoy this
space, and it keeps them coming back down here.
The first year has been absolutely amazing. It’s
by far exceeded our expectations, drawing visitors
It stretches five city blocks and covers over 5 acres of land. It held ten thousand people
at its grand opening last August. It was the source of controversy, but it has also been
heralded as the crown jewel of Owensboro. It’s a sentimental spot for scores of Veterans.
It also happens to be crawling with enormous bugs, frogs, butterflies and a giant bass big
enough for kids to sit inside for photo-ops. Recently a painted piano found a home in
one of its gazebos.
Of course I’m talking about Smothers Park, which turns one year old this month. In
celebration, Owensboro Parent decided to take a look back at an eventful first year to see
just how big of an impact the re-opening of Smothers Park has had on our community.
20 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
community
from all around the region.”
Although there’s no way to have an exact count for attendance,
city officials estimate there were close to 10,000 people crammed into
Smothers Park at the air show during the grand opening last August.
If you’ve ever made a visit downtown, you know the park has
stayed plenty busy since. On any given day, by 10 or 10:30 in the
morning people are already gathering at the park. With lights
installed on the playground and in the fountains, the park is usually
busy until it closes at 10 p.m. Even in colder months when the
fountains are off, people still come out to enjoy the rest of the park
and stroll along the riverfront.
For the first night of “Bluegrass on the Banks,” which coincided
with ROMP, 200-300 people showed up on a weeknight to listen
to live Bluegrass music in the park. On one particular Saturday in
September there are three weddings and two special events scheduled
on the same day in different locations throughout Smothers Park.
Word is spreading more and more throughout the region and
surrounding counties. The RiverPark Center has noticed that when
fieldtrip groups come from out of town they usually walk across the
street to have picnics in the park and let the kids enjoy the playground.
It’s easy to imagine many of those kids will eventually be coming
back to show their friends and family what they experienced.
Quality of Life
Smothers Park is much more than a play space. It’s not
uncommon to see people relaxing at the green spaces, walking pets,
or running through the park as well, which all fit squarely into one of
the goals of Owensboro’s Public Events Office: enhancing the quality
of life for our community.
Another benefit of Smothers Park is how it has added to the
success of charity events like the Color Blast 5K, March for Babies,
Making Strides for Breast Cancer, and many others. The park makes
a great starting or ending point, which adds to the excitement and
increases participation in those types of events.
Having the park open this past year has also allowed Friday After
Five to expand by providing more space for the street fairs and adding
the “Don Moore Overlook Stage,” which gives great exposure to local
bands.
Economic Impact
From a tourism standpoint, the impact of Smothers Park has been
tremendous. “We used to see nobody downtown during the day,”
says Sean Dysinger with the Owensboro Convention and Visitor’s
Bureau. “Now there are always people walking around, popping in
and out of shops and restaurants. There is a significantly noticeable
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 21www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
Swings overlooking the river: 37
Slides at Lazy Dayz Park: 20
Viewing fountain features: 3 (plus the cascade)
Water pad spray fountains at the children’s
splash park: 24 (plus 2 arches)
by the numbers
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Midway open 1 hour after buffet closes
increase in foot traffic downtown now. Every restaurant and shop
downtown will tell you that they see the benefit. We hit a home run
with that one!”
Tim Ross says Smothers Park has become a great selling point to
bringing in outside events to Owensboro as well. A great example of
that is the Sea Ark Invitational Catfishing Tournament, which was
held on June 1. “Even though it was held at English Park,” says Ross,
“When the Sea Ark tournament directors visited and saw Smothers
Park it really made an impression because they knew it was something
the competitors and their families would enjoy.”
But the greatest economic impact is what Smothers Park has
done to entice local developers, investors, and entrepreneurs to take
advantage of opportunities downtown.
The GOEDC Downtown Project Manager Joe Berry says,
“Smothers Park has made a huge difference! Anytime you have
a nice public space, it pays huge dividends in entrepreneurial and
economic impact.”
Berry cited the Cold Stone Creamery and Cup Cakery shop that
recently opened a block from Smothers as a perfect example. With
Smothers Park generating such an increase in foot traffic, the owners
knew their business model would work downtown. And you can
bet the eateries that already were downtown (like The Crème Coffee
House, Famous Bistro, and Bee Bops) are enjoying the increase as
well.
It’s all part of the downtown master plan that was laid out in 2009.
Since then, over $92 million has been generated in private investment
downtown; from large projects like the Hampton Inn and Texas Gas
relocation to smaller projects like boutiques and shops. So far, it’s all
going according to plan.
“Smothers Park has made a believer out of a lot of folks,” Joe Berry
explains. “It has really given our community a glimpse of what the
end result of the downtown plan is going to be when it’s all finished.”
Future Expansion
From construction barricades at Veterans Boulevard and
Frederica Street, you can clearly see the walls of the new convention
center and hotel nearing completion. Once they’re opened, two more
blocks will be added to the river walk to connect them to Smothers
Park via McConnell Plaza (once it reopens). The river walk will then
run continuously from the RiverPark Center through Smothers Park
and all the way to the new convention center and hotel, giving foot
traffic easy access to all the amenities downtown.
As Mayor Payne put it, “We have worked to make Owensboro
walkable, connective, and a place where people want to be. The pieces
24 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
community
off the track
are there, and I see our private sector continuing to be the catalyst
for change not only in our downtown core, but also throughout the
community.”
Joe Berry echoed that same reply: “We have a place now that
people want to live. That’s our number one asset right now. Basically
what it’s done is help make Owensboro more competitive with larger
job markets, which will continue to draw outside companies and
industries into our community.”
With more expansion on the way and room to grow, it looks like
downtown truly is on an upswing. Old favorites like Friday After
Five are finding new life and new events like Thursday Date Night
and Downtown Cruise-Ins (on the first Saturday) keep popping up.
If they are any indication, city officials are right on target.
Yes, the concrete trees are here to stay, and it looks like going out
on a limb has really paid off for our city. The result is more than
just a playground; it has become a lifeline, a breath of fresh air, and a
vision that’s truly catching on.
Danny May is a husband and father of two boys, 3 and 5, who are avid fans of the
“big playground” downtown. He his also the Director of Family Life at Lourdes
Catholic Church.
Since the re-opening of Smothers Park,
Owensboro Police Department has set
up a remote command post on Veteran’s
Boulevard to provide a constant presence.
Officers patrol the park at night and on
weekends with periodic shifts during the day
as well. Although the remote office does
have camera feeds at Smothers Park, Officer
Jim Ashby prefers to patrol on foot so he
can be out with the people. Ashby says “The
feedback I get is everybody loves this park.
And I’ve heard that from people from all over
the country. I think this is something we can
all be proud of.”
safety in smothers
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off the track
The Lazy Dayz Playground is fully accessible for
those with disabilities.
There is free Wi-Fi at Smothers Park.
Even when there’s not a live band, there is
constantly music playing from outdoor speakers
hidden in the landscape.
Smothers Park is named after frontiersman William
Smeathers, who settled in Owensboro in 1797.
did you know
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photos from facebook
community
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Look out Spielberg, there’s a new kid in town…literally a kid,
and he’s right here in Owensboro.
When you look at Logan Starks you see a cute yet unassuming
kid, who loves being goofy, playing Legos, super heroes, Kinex
and video games. But upon further examination, Logan is much
more. He is a 9-year-old boy who has made a movie, with help
from Dad, called Into the World 2: A Toddlers Tale, an ode to his
little brother Connor.
After speaking with Logan’s parents and watching their movie,
it’s apparent he comes by his good nature and humor honestly.
According to dad P.J. and mom Trina, Logan’s imagination began
at a very early age and continues to be a source of amazement.
He creates aliens with his Legos, can imitate a dinosaur with
accuracy and now adds filmmaking to his repertoire.
Where exactly did Logan get his aspirations for movie making?
Just as many families share hobbies and talents, Logan’s passion
his stems from P.J.‘s affinity for the movie making process. PJ
takes videos of his family as a way to incorporate them into
something he loves. It seemed only natural that Logan would
catch the fever.
The family already created a movie, however P.J. notes it is
more of a collage of family videos that may not interest folks as
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lights, camera,
talent
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much as Logan’s creation. In humor he says, “Unless they want to
watch hours of home videos of my family.”
When asked how Connor became the subject of his film,
Logan simply said, “It was a way to welcome him to our family.”
Seems like a pretty excellent gift! Connor’s big brother thinks he’s
pretty special.
The short movie captures this fun-loving family very well.
There are moments you laugh at the simple trappings of daily
life and moments you tear up as you view the interactions of two
brothers.
Logan acts as narrator while P.J. is the very capable camera
man, Trina and Connor round out the cast along with a few
supporting characters. However, narrating wasn’t the only thing
to Logan’s credit. He also directed his dad to what footage he
wanted to share with the audience.
There is a point in the movie, a debate ensues among the
Starks family and friends concerning the Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles. Are they super heroes? A good debate was presented
among those polled. However, Logan gets the final say. When
asked, he replied, “Sure they are super heroes, they fight bad
guys!” Indeed!
Logan is a terrific big brother and equally good filmmaker.
Trina and P.J. plan to support all dreams that both their sons have
as they are raising them to be kind and responsible young men.
Logan has received extremely positive feedback from his movie.
He’s a little boy who is excited about life and his family and says
of the movie, “I want to share it with the whole earth.” One would
have to agree it’s certainly worth viewing.
P.J. and Trina are honored to be Logan and Connor’s parents
and though they may have never imagined they would be asked to
give advice to children (and their parents) who have such dreams
and imagination as Logan they would say, “I would tell the kids to
go for what they want no matter the challenges. It won’t be easy, so
prepare to have to work hard for what you want. For the parents...
sometimes we get so caught up in being adults that we forget how
childlike wonder feels. Nothing can recapture that feeling like
helping your child try to reach their goals, even if that goal is to
be the next Iron Man.”
The Starks supply a beautiful example of supporting your
children’s dreams and being a part of them. Though the movie
may seem to be about their world, it’s an encouragement for all
families to “go into the world,” be good to people and live those
dreams…even if in movies.
So next time you are watching a movie, you might question
whether an imaginative 9-year-old boy is seated in the director’s
chair. Be sure to watch the credits for Logan Starks!
Jaime Rafferty enjoys writing, as a hobby. She lives is Owensboro with her
husband, Paul and their two children.
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Children and teenagers feel the emotions that result from
separation and loss just like adults, but without the benefit of
experience and perspective. Even with those benefits, and in the best
of circumstances, we adults find the struggle difficult. How must it
be for young people?
Too often we don’t recognize that the grief journey, while hard,
is natural. We can’t grasp that what we feel is shared by countless
others. While that insight may not necessarily make us feel better,
it can help us feel normal. It sometimes takes knowing that others
share our feelings, that there are those who can relate to us, for us to
begin to accept, to adjust, and to begin to feel better. If that’s true for
adults, it’s particularly true for children and teenagers who relate to
those around them.
Camp Memory is a place and a space for young people, children
and teenagers, to come together in an atmosphere of love and
acceptance. It’s a place where they can meet others of their own
ages who are also trying to learn about and understand what they’re
feeling. It’s unlikely they have a word for it. Yet there’s no doubt that
they wonder about what, to them, feels like a sense of emptiness, of
longing, of missing, of wondering why.
Camp Memory provides an opportunity to run and play and laugh
. . . to be themselves . . . to have a good time! Being with others like
them helps them discover that their feelings can be shared and that
they’re normal and okay. They can come to understand that they’re
not alone in the way they feel. Emotions are understood, accepted
and shared.
The Camp Memory experience is about being together about
getting to know each other. Small groups of like ages engage in
games that introduce, give sense and meaning to, shared emotions.
Arts and crafts focus on creating images of the one they miss into
items they create and keep. Memory books give them a way to
express, demonstrate and illustrate the relationship and the memory
of someone no longer with them. A memorial service allows
emotions and feelings be shown. But it is the gathering together, the
understanding of a shared loss, and the support of one another that
helps understanding and acceptance.
Camp Memory is committed to making a difference during one
of the most critical times for a child or teen. Left to grow, left to
imagination, left to itself, the grief of childhood can become one of
the heaviest of grownup burdens.
Camp Memory is a work of Glenn Family Services. It will be held
November 2 at Mount Saint Joseph Retreat Center, 8001 Cummings
Road, Maple Mount, KY. Betty Medley, Continuing Care Coordinator
with Glenn Family Services, will direct the 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. camp. She
may be contacted at 270-683-1505 for questions or to register. Registration
is open until Monday, October 28. There is no charge.
For more information Camp Memory from Glenn Family Services
contact Betty Medley, Continuing Care Coordinator, at 270-683-1505
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grief isn’t just for grownups
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Due to the overwhelming response after last year’s air
show celebrating the grand opening of Smothers Park,
city officials have decided to make the Owensboro Air Show
an annual event. “We decided to move the dates back to
September 20 & 21st in hopes of cooler weather to make it safer
and more comfortable for the crowds,” explains Owensboro
Public Events Director Tim Ross.
Just like last year, the full air show will take place on
Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. with fly-overs and aerial
acrobatics at the riverfront. But this year’s air show promises
to be bigger and better than last year because of several newly
added attractions on Friday evening. All the aircraft involved
in Saturday’s show will be on display at the airport on Friday
from 4-9 p.m. with a $2 admission. (Kids 10 and under are
free!) Then, skydivers are set to land at the airport at dusk and
a special pyrotechnic display will be set off from an airplane at
dark.
Organizers say English Park and Smothers Park are the
best spots to view the Saturday afternoon air show. There
is also reserved seating available on the patio at the River
Park Center, which will feature food vendors and access to
restrooms and air conditioning inside the River Park Center
lobby. Tickets for reserved seating can be purchased at
Independence Bank.
As an added bonus, there will be a special performance by
a military band at Smothers Park after the air show Saturday
evening. The concert is free and open to the public.
For more information visit www.owensboroairshow.com.
owensboro air show returns
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The doctors and staff at RiverPark EyeCare recognize the
importance of vision care for children. Over ten million children
in the United States suffer from undetected vision problems, even
students who score 20/20 vision in a screening. This can contribute
to problems in the classroom, which can influence self-esteem and a
child’s overall success in school.
Just because a child has 20/20 vision, this does not account for
eye tracking or the ability of the eyes to focus for extended periods of
time. Common vision problems in children include blurriness when
reading, headaches, eyestrain, loss of concentration, or loss of place
when reading. With the increasing advancements in technology,
children are spending longer periods of time staring at computer
screens, iPads, iPhones, and video games, which can increase
symptoms in a child with undetected vision problems.
The American Optometric Association
recommends a child’s first eye exam
at six months old, even if the
parent notices no problems.
Certain vision problems such
as an eye turn or “lazy eye”
are best corrected at a
young age, and if left
untreated, can be much harder to fix as an older child or adult. In
Kentucky, all children must have documentation of an eye exam by
an optometrist or ophthalmologist during their first year of school.
The doctors at RiverPark EyeCare are also enrolled in a public
health program called InfantSEE, which provides a comprehensive
eye examination to children between six months and a year old as a
NO-COST public service.
The doctors at RiverPark EyeCare are committed to providing
the best eye exam for your child to ensure that vision problems are
being addressed and that your child has a positive experience at his/
her eye exam. RiverPark EyeCare has invested in the most up-to-
date equipment and technology to better meet the needs of all of our
patients. The ultimate goal is to make your child feel comfortable,
which will establish a future of trusted vision care. All of our doctors
are experienced in helping children who are nervous or afraid feel at
ease during their exam. There is always a treat for our children at the
end of the exam as well, such as stickers, candy, or one of our famous
balloon animals.
RiverPark EyeCare features the latest styles of frames, including
Nike, Ray-Ban, and Skechers so that kids are excited about their
glasses when they pick them out. We often feature our younger
patients on our Facebook page after they receive their frames to
further boost their confidence about wearing glasses.
Contact lenses are another option for children as
well. Daily disposable lenses are a great choice for
youngsters because this means a fresh lens every
single day, eliminating the need for children to have
to clean the lenses and remember to store them
properly overnight.
As your child is preparing for another school year,
don’t forget to schedule an eye exam at RiverPark
EyeCare. We are accepting new patients
and would love to see you!
To learn about RiverPark EyeCare’s Kid’s Eye Exam Promotion
visit online: www.riverparkeyecare.com or call: 270-685-4966
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your child’s best vision starts now!
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August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 37www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
Henry David Thoreau said “If one advances confidently
in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life
which he has imagined he will meet with success unexpected in
common hours.”
Morgan Baker may be unaware of these famous words of
Mr. Thoreau many years ago, but she obviously understands the
meaning. She began her pursuit of success at a young age taking
in homeless animals. She has a huge heart to care for those who
cannot care for themselves. She decided then that her dream was
to become a veterinarian, owing her own practice and a “no-kill”
facility. She is already taking the necessary steps to making this
dream a reality.
She is currently a manager at Ritzy’s on 54 and has been
employed there since August of 2011. She is graduating from
Triplett High School one year early with six college credits
at Owensboro Community & Technical College, where she is
actively pursing her dreams of becoming a veterinarian.
She is also involved in many volunteer services such as:
Special Olympics, Owensboro Humane Society, toy and book
drives for children, cancer groups, food banks and many other
organizations throughout the community. She competes in local
and national pageants, where her platform is bringing awareness
to neglected, homeless, and abandoned animals. She strives
to educate others on the importance of spaying and neutering
their pets to decrease the overpopulation of animals to reduce
euthanization in the United States.
To begin achieving her dreams of owning her own “no-kill”
facility, she has started taking in unwanted or abandoned pets
into her own home caring for them, working with rescues, and
helping find forever homes for them. To date she has placed
at least twenty-seven unwanted animals in forever homes
and logged in 888 volunteer hours. She provides all necessary
supplies and shelter to the animals while in her care. When
bottle feeding, there are nights she feeds every few hours as they
are dependent as a newborn child.
You can see her dedication to her aspiring career. She is
highly motivated to achieve success and become a future leader,
serving her community as a veterinarian. OP
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{ b y : d r . b r i a n g a n n o n }If you would like to make contributions to Morgan’s cause in any way or learn more about Research Concierge, LLC and their sponsorships and available programs, call 270-313-2110.
Research Concierge, LLC believes in giving back to the community and helping our future
leaders become successful by giving them the necessary tools and motivation they need today
to achieve their success tomorrow. We would like to introduce you to one of our youth that has
chartered her course for success and is setting sail to achieve her dream.
course forsuccess
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Not every child needs to go to preschool. But there are some situations when preschool can be essential to a child’s growing mind. Children with learning difficulties, such as speech delays or motor problems, are usually advised to attend a state-funded preschool or Head Start program. Often if they are receiving therapies to help with these medical problems, the therapists prefer to provide services in a school setting if the child is old enough. Sometimes the services are only covered by the school system if the child is enrolled in a preschool program, so attendance is required in order for the child to continue therapies beyond age three, when children graduate from First Steps. Children who are socially awkward or shy may also benefit from a school-type setting before full-day kindergarten begins. These kids have lots of options, because often full-day Head Start is too much of a change from the home environment. They may do better in a Children’s Day Out program for a few hours only 2-3 days a week. These programs have some academic component to prepare children for kindergarten, but they are not full-time preparatory pre-K programs like the ones through the school system. What do children learn in preschool? Sharing with others, hands-on crafts, recognizing letters and colors, counting, and classroom rules. The kindergarten teacher will expect your child to have these skills before he sets foot in her classroom, so if you think you do not have what it takes to teach these things (time, patience, motivation, etc.) then preschool may be for you.
Kindergarten
The other big skill required for kindergarten is a reasonable attention span. The code word for a child with a short attention span is “immature.” For example, “Johnny quit t-ball because he was not mature enough,” meaning he wandered around in the outfield, did not understand the rules, and got hit by the ball because he was not watching the action. Some kids need to go ahead and start kindergarten, even if they do have attention problems or difficulty following rules. These children need the structure of school, and no amount of extra time at home to “mature” will teach him that other adults have the same rules as his parents. These are the kids who will likely need a second year of kindergarten (some schools offer a “transition” year for the children between kindergarten and first grade) because they spend the entire year learning social skills, and the second time around they can focus on learning letters and numbers and the academic material of kindergarten. Some children will very immature and active at 4 years old, and if parents worry their child will not be ready for school at 5, here are some ideas to teach the busy child how to calm down, so school will go better. Practice having your child do quiet, calm activities, like coloring or crafts. Start out being at your child’s side, then try letting him work alone for five minutes, and see if he sticks with it. Over time, work up to coloring for 20 minutes with minimal input from the adult, maybe as the adult does some household task nearby. For example, “Sam, I would
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So your baby’s fifth birthday is coming up in August and you are trying to decide if he is ready for kindergarten. The state says you should be enrolling him, but your friends say you should hold him out a year. What’s a sensitive, caring parent to do? How will you know when your child is ready to start school? And is preschool really necessary?
it’s fun to be
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love for you to make a birthday card for Grandma. Here is some paper
and some crayons. I will be over here washing dishes, so let me know
if you need my help.” The child learns that his efforts are important to
you, and besides the skill of staying on task, he is also learning how to
work independently and creatively without needing constant input from
a trusted adult.
Separation anxiety
Dropping your child at preschool or kindergarten can produce
worries in both parent and child. Some families should consider full-
time or part-time preschool as a practice run. It gives both a chance to
see what their day will be like when they must be apart, but if it is not
full-time, then there is less fear of the unknown, because you can stay
closer to the familiar daily routines of the family, possibly including a
more successful nap.
The first day of school can best be described as a rite of passage.
Some families navigate this time without any problems or anxiety, but
some need more time to prepare and gradually work towards it. Only
you as a parent can make the right decision for your child. It’s perfectly
fine to commit to a choice, and stick with it. Don’t second guess yourself.
Nobody knows your child better than you.
With seven birthdays between May and October, Dr. Gannon has given these
issues lots of thought. Clearly one size does not fit all.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 1
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
PICTURE A HAPPY ME Discover My Pyramid,
the USDA’s new version of the food pyramid,
and receive a personalized take home page
that reminds us what is needed for healthy
living; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Owensboro Science &
History Museum, 122 E. 2nd Street; (270) 687-
2732 or www.owensboromuseum.org
BLUEGRASS JAM On the first Thursday of
each month, head to the Bluegrass Museum
to jam with other musicians. Jamming is for
musicians of all levels and begins at 7 p.m.
For more information, contact the Museum
at (270) 926-7891 or visit their website at
www.bluegrassmuseum.org.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All must
wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2
are free, unless they are the only child, adults
always free; 5 – 9 p.m.; (270) 685-1255.
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Main Stage - After
Midnight (70’s rock); Courtyard - Michael
Bailey; Overlook Stage - King’s Highway;
Street Fair - Family Night; Class reunions:
Hancock County Class of 1978, Owensboro
High Class of 2003; Daviess County Class of
2003, Owensboro High Class of 1973; (270)
687-2787 or fridayafter5.com.
STUDIO SLANT-ASTIC Enjoy exciting art
projects with the creative folks from Studio
Slant all summer long! 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.;
Owensboro Science & History Museum,
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 [email protected].
august 2013
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 41www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
122 E. 2nd Street; (270) 687-2732 or www.
owensboromuseum.org
THE LAND DOWN UNDER An introduction
to Australian history, culture and animals.
Come meet a kangaroo today! 11 a.m. –
12 p.m.; Owensboro Science & History
Museum, 122 E. 2nd Street; (270) 687-2732
or www.owensboromuseum.org
SATURDAY, AUGUST 3
FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the
library every Saturday morning from 10:00—
12:00 for self guided fun and educational
activities with a focus on literacy and
school readiness; Daviess County Public
Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
DOWNTOWN OWENSBORO CRUISE-IN
Head Downtown every 1st Saturday from
April to October and enjoy classic cars! Free
admission and fun for the whole family!
TWO “ZOO STORY” Theatre Workshop of
Owensboro presents Zoo Story. A chance
meeting on a park bench becomes a
harrowing depiction of a man’s desperate
need for connection and recognition.
Performances on the outdoor stage. Ticket
price includes buffet lunch; 1 p.m.; For
ticket information call 270-683-5333; TWO
Members - $15 Non-Members - $20.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4
FREE 2ND ANNUAL OWENSBORO PARENT
BIRTHDAY BASH You are invited to join the
fun at the 2nd Annual Owensboro Parent
Birthday Bash! Presented by Owensboro
Dermatology. This FREE, family event
features train rides along the Owensboro
riverfront, inflatables, vendor booths,
birthday cake, fun activities and much more!
Register at the door to win thousands of
dollars worth of giveaways at the Birthday
Bash! Among the prizes is a 3-night summer
getaway to Gaylord Opryland Resort which
includes lodging for up to 4 people, daily
breakfast, a ride on the Delta Riverboats, VIP
coupon book and more! The Owensboro
Parent Birthday Bash! is the only place
to get your entry form for the 2013
Owensboro Parent Magazine CoverKids
Contest. Your form grants your child entry
into our Facebook contest and land a
spot on the cover of Owensboro Parent
Magazine. After the event stick around for
SUNDAY MOVIES ON THE RIVER hosted
by the RiverPark Center. This year’s feature
film is “The Hunger Games.” Business can
participate by having a vendor booth and/or
donating items for door prizes. The vendor
booths will be located inside the RiverPark
center and will be easily accessible by all
guests. The door prizes will allow for your
business to be announced during the event
as we draw the winners.
calendar
42 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
SUNDAY MOVIES ON THE RIVER – “THE HUNGER GAMES”
RiverPark Center’s FREE outdoor movie series continues with
“The Hunger Games.” You can bring your own chair or use one of
the chairs provided. No coolers or pets, please. Concessions are
available. Cartoons before each feature film. Movies begin at dusk;
8 – 11 p.m.; 270-687-2787 or www.riverparkcenter.org
TWO “ZOO STORY” Theatre Workshop of Owensboro presents
Zoo Story. A chance meeting on a park bench becomes a
harrowing depiction of a man’s desperate need for connection
and recognition. Performances on the outdoor stage. Ticket price
includes buffet lunch; 2 p.m.; For ticket information call 270-683-
5333; TWO Members - $15 Non-Members - $20.
MONDAY, AUGUST 5
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle
Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 6
U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must wear socks; Children
5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7
BACK TO SCHOOL PRAYER BREAKFAST A time of prayer for
the 2013-2014 school year, students, teachers, staff and families;
Continental breakfast starting at 7:30 a.m., prayer begins a 8:30
a.m.; First Baptist Church, Fellowship Hall, 230 J.R. Miller Blvd; (270)
683-3505.
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All must wear socks; $7 per
child, children under 2 are free, unless they are the only child, adults
always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8
RIVERFRONT FAIR Carnival rides, live music, food and beverage
vendors. For more information, e-mail [email protected]
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle
Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
FREE AUTHOR EVENT - WES BERRY Meet author Wes Berry and
calendar
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 43www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
listen to him talk about his book, Kentucky
Barbecue. There will be a book signing after
the program; 6 – 7 p.m.; Daviess County
Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Main Stage - Skip
Bond & the Fugitives (motown, rock ‘n roll);
Courtyard - Arythmics; Overlook Stage - Kiki
the Musician; Street Fair - Farm Festival;
(270) 687-2787 or fridayafter5.com.
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 9 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
RIVERFRONT FAIR See event description on
Thursday, August 8.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 10
GLOW IN THE PARK 5K RUN/WALK A great
way to have fun and exercise! Glow body
paint, glow water stations, foam pits, and
UV reactive glow powder will light up the
participants and the night! All proceeds will
go to benefit New Beginnings and their
services for child and adult abuse survivors.
For more information contact New
Beginnings at 270-926-7273 or 270-926-
7278. www.newbowensboro.org.
LANHAM BROTHERS JAMBOREE This
family-fun and interactive show will feature
Bluegrass, Country, Clogging and Comedy.
Showtime is 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. CST. The
Jamboree will be held in the Good Time
Theater at Diamond Lake Resort. Tickets
are general admission at the door and are
$10 per person, $5 for ages 6-12 years
and 5 years and under are free. Discounts
offered for groups of 15 or more people.
Group tickets may be purchased by calling
(270) 314-4331; 7301 Hobbs Road; www.
lanhambrothersjamboree.com
FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the
library every Saturday morning from 10:00—
12:00 for self guided fun and educational
activities with a focus on literacy and school
readiness; Daviess County Public Library,
44 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
RIVERFRONT FAIR See event description on
Thursday, August 8.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 11
RIVERFRONT FAIR See event description on
Thursday, August 8.
MONDAY, AUGUST 12
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 13
FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS The city
of Owensboro is kicking off Bluegrass On
The Banks showcasing bluegrass music
on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month
through early October.
U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must
wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for
$5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
JOHNSON’S DANCE STUDIO OPEN
HOUSE REGISTRATION Stop in at 2705
Breckenridge Street from 1 - 6 p.m.; (270)
684-9580; www.johnsonsdancestudio.
com.
WALK, TALK & LUNCH IN THE GARDEN
“NO POEM AS LOVELY AS A TREE” Have
lunch at the Western KY Botanical Garden;
11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.; (270) 852-8925 or www.
wkbg.org.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
JOHNSON’S DANCE STUDIO OPEN
HOUSE REGISTRATION Stop in at 2705
Breckenridge Street from 1 - 6 p.m.; (270) 684-
9580; www.johnsonsdancestudio.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 15
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 16
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Main Stage - Bone
Pony (rock); Courtyard - Stud Buzzards;
Gospel on the River - McKendree Family,
Kyle Reeder, Lefevre Quartet; Overlook
Stage - Blackberry Jam; Street Fair - Bike
Night; (270) 687-2787 or fridayafter5.com.
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 45www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 9 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 17
CONCERT ON THE LAWN The Owensboro
Symphony Orchestra presents their annual
Concert on the Lawn. Join the Symphony
for family fun and great music, beginning at
7 p.m.; 270-684-0661 or http://www.theoso.
com.
MULTI-CULTURAL FESTIVAL A unique
blending of cultures come together to
educate the public through dancing, music,
ethnic fashions, food, arts and more. A
celebration of our diversity; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.;
First Presbyterian Church lawn, 1328 Griffith
Avenue, 270-684-1467.
FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the
library every Saturday morning from 10:00—
12:00 for self guided fun and educational
activities with a focus on literacy and
school readiness; Daviess County Public
Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
MONDAY, AUGUST 19
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
OWENSBORO MARLINS SWIM TEAM TRY-
OUTS & EVALUATIONS at the HealthPark.
1006 Ford Avenue; For More information
contact Patsy Duke (270) 302-6469; www.
owensboromarlins.com.
OWENSBORO DANCE THEATRE OPEN
AUDITIONS 5 - 7 p.m. at Johnson’s Dance
Studio. 2705 Breckenridge Street; 270) 684-
9580; www.johnsonsdancestudio.com.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 20
U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must
wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for
$5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
LEGO BLOCK PARTY Build, play, and learn
with LEGO! Seating is limited. Registration is
required; 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Daviess County
Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.
org.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
46 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar
OWENSBORO MARLINS SWIM TEAM TRY-
OUTS & EVALUATIONS at the HealthPark.
1006 Ford Avenue; For More information
contact Patsy Duke (270) 302-6469 or visit
www.owensboromarlins.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
20/20 BOOKCLUB This month we will
be discussing Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De
Rosnay. Pick up your copy at the 2nd Floor
Information Desk; 6 -7 p.m.; Daviess County
Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.
org.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
DCPS ALUMNI & FRIENDS FESTIVAL 2013
Apollo football will host OHS and DCHS
football will host Owensboro Catholic on
Friday evening, August 23. The 3K Run/
Walk on Saturday morning, August 24th.
The Alumni, Friends & Families Picnic
will be at Reid’s Orchard from 11-2 on
Saturday, August 24th. The Alumni & Friends
Extravaganza will be Saturday evening. For
more information, contact Vicki Quisenberry
at 270-231-5583
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Main Stage - Rachel
Timberlake (country rock); Courtyard - Jody
Jones; Overlook Stage - Hereward the
Wake; Street Fair - Beach Night; (270) 687-
2787 or fridayafter5.com.
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 9 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24
OWENSBORO DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
The third annual festival brings hundreds
of participants and thousands of people
down to English Park to enjoy the incredible
competition of dragon boat racing on the
Ohio River along with cultural entertainment
and great food.
OWENSBORO’S WALK FOR A CURE AND
FUNDRAISER by the American Diabetes
Association in honor of Eric Crabtree
Activities include: silent auction, music by
Andy Brasher and American Idol’s Jenny
Beth Willis, silent auction, inflatables, live
broadcast and food by Cromwell Radio and
much more! Donation only and all proceeds
go directly to the ADA.; Moreland Park; 12
– 5 p.m.; For more information, please visit
our website http://main.diabetes.org/goto/
crabtree and click on the “join event” link or
call 270-312-4102 or 270-925-8283.
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 47www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
48 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar
OWENSBORO RIVER CITY KENNEL CLUB ALL-BREED DOG SHOW
The Owensboro River City Kennel Club holds their annual All-Breed
Dog Show at the Daviess County Fairgrounds. Vendors will be
on hand offering dog-related items and jewelry. On late Saturday
afternoon, there is a Dog Show Match for inexperienced dogs
and/or new people interested in getting into showing their dogs.
Contestants may enter this show that afternoon. For the show on
Sunday, dogs must be entered in advance. For more information,
contact Vicki Spencer at 270-316-0051.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY “A STERLING CELEBRATION” Habitat for
Humanity, a not for profit entity is celebrating their 25th. anniversary
in Owensboro, on August 24, 2013. The Silver Anniversary, a Sterling
Celebration, will be held at Southern Star on Highway 81. This will
be the annual Banjos and Brunch and will begin at 9:30 and end
at 11:30. Randy Lanham will provide the Bluegrass entertainment.
Brunch will be served. There will be a silent auction with a variety of
merchandise, which will be announced before the event. The cost
is $50 per person or $350 for a table of 8 with your name listed as
a sponsor. For more information contact 270-926-6110 or www.
habitatowensboro-daviess.org.
FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the library every Saturday
morning from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and educational
activities with a focus on literacy and
school readiness; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
dcplibrary.org
ROAD TO VICTORY: WORLD WAR II REMEMBERED Panel
Discussion Experts and veterans will discuss the Pacific Theater; 2–
4 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25
FREE MEMORIAL BALLOON RELEASE Join the Mullins family
as they honor the memory of SPC Brandon Mullins; 3 p.m.; The
balloon release will take place between the Owensboro Sports
Center and The Edge Ice Arena.
FITTER & FASTER SWIM TOUR CLINIC The Fitter & Faster Swim
Tour Presented by SwimOutlet.com is coming to Owensboro,
KY on Aug. 25th featuring two Olympians Christine Magnuson
and Adam Brown. They both are competing at the World
Championships in Barcelona this summer! This is an amazing
opportunity for young swimmers to swim with and learn from
Olympians. Also, The first 10 registrants to use promo code “visit-
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 49www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
owen” through July 26th save 10% off the
current online fee (this is savings of $34 off the
event day fee!); Owensboro HealthPark, 11 a.m.
– 3 p.m.; More details about this clinic and for
registration go here: http://fitterandfaster.com/
swim-clinics/owensboro-ky/.
MONDAY, AUGUST 26FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27
FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANKS The city
of Owensboro is kicking off Bluegrass On
The Banks showcasing bluegrass music
on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month
through early October.
U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must
wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for
$5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 29
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 30
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 9 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Main Stage - Insulated
(country rock); Courtyard - The Pits;
Gospel on the River - Greeson Family, The
Crossmen, New Ground; Overlook Stage -
Boscoe France; Street Fair - Mardi Gras; (270)
687-2787 or fridayafter5.com.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 31
5K FAMILY FUN RUN Come out to support
MentorKids Kentucky for a competitive 5K
or a 1 mile Family Fun Run/Walk that will
include fun activities, obstacles, and games.
T-Shirt and breakfast included; $10; For
more details or to register online go to www.
mentorkidsky.org/5k2013.
FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the
library every Saturday morning from 10:00—
12:00 for self guided fun and educational
50 OWENSBORO PARENT . August 2013 www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar
activities with a focus on literacy and
school readiness; Daviess County Public
Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
THE BIG O MUSIC FEST, the best time
in Owensboro, features some of the
top names in country music and is held
annually at Reid’s Orchard. The 2013
lineup includes headliner Jake Owen,
Justin Moore, Love & Theft, Colt Ford,
Locash Cowboys and the winner of
the Battle for the Big O. Tickets can
be purchased through the website.
Gates open at noon with performances
beginning at 1 p.m. www.bigomusicfest.
com
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
FREE STORYTIME WEE Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library,
2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must
wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for
$5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All
must wear socks; $7 per child, children
under 2 are free, unless they are the only
child, adults always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270)
685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
BLUEGRASS JAM On the first Thursday
of each month, head to the Bluegrass
Museum to jam with other musicians.
Jamming is for musicians of all levels and
begins at 7 p.m. For more information,
contact the Museum at (270) 926-
7891 or visit their website at www.
bluegrassmuseum.org.
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 51www.OwensboroParent.comwww.OwensboroParent.com
August 2013 . OWENSBORO PARENT 52www.OwensboroParent.com