Owensboro Parent - June 2012
-
Upload
jason-tanner -
Category
Documents
-
view
223 -
download
2
description
Transcript of Owensboro Parent - June 2012
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 1www.OwensboroParent.com
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 2www.OwensboroParent.com
3 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
4 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
It’s funny how the small things in life seem to make the biggest impact. Although most memories are attributed to major events, I feel it’s those moments most consider ordinary that define who we are.
My life has been shaped by a father who never took for granted the small things. As my baseball coach, my music instructor and my spiritual mentor, my dad poured himself into everyday life. Combining all those moments into what would become a foundation for my life. And now, as I raise my children, it’s my hope that I can learn to make every small thing count. Every morning prayer said with Ella Grace on the way to school. Every wrestling match with Ethan while we laugh until it hurts. And with Lydia Jane, who will soon enter this world to find a dad who is set on pouring everything he has into her life. I hope this issue of Owensboro Parent, filled with ways to enjoy the small things, inspires you to make every moment count. After all, this life is fragile and tomorrow is not promised.
Publisher, Owensboro Parent [email protected]
Publisher/Creative Director
Jason Tanner
Editor
Ashley Sorce
Account Executives
Jeff Sorce
Jodi Tanner
Jonathan Tanner
Robert Williams
Graphic Designer
Taylor West
Contributors
Christina Dalton
Dean Ehrenheim
Dr. Brian Gannon
Cam Matthews
Danny May
John Moore
Jaime Rafferty
Christy Ramey
Jan Ward
Lora Wimsatt
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 Photography
Jason Tanner
Cover Model
James, son of Jimbo and Kristen
Rhineburger.
Advertise
Owensboro Parent is a FREE
magazine because of community
support.
Thank you to the great group of
businesses & organizations who
advertise with us.
If you want to contribute to the
success of our magazine, we
would love to hear from you and
will work to develop an
advertising partnership that will
not only benefit you, but also the
parents of Owensboro.
from the publisher
june 2012
Jacob Helwig
Owensboro Parent would like to offer the Helwig family our deepest
sympathy with the loss of their son, Jacob. Diagnosed at age 16 with
Rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancerous tumor that attacks the soft tissue of
the body, Jacob was known for his faith, strength and courage.
1 9 9 4 - 2 0 1 2
This issue dedicated to
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 5www.OwensboroParent.com
celebrating fatherhood [8]
playing it safe this summer [10]
daddy’s girl [12]
drastic measures [14]
a princess named stefanie [16]
sports and parents [20]
it’s about having fun [22]
dive into swimming [24]
[26] discovering disc golf
[27] take me out to the ballgame
[28] romp
[30] facebook photos
[32] off to the races
[34] plan your family’s stay-cation
[37] kids eat free
[38] calendar of events
[32]
[08]
[27][10]
[12]
[30]
[14]
june features
[10]
6 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 7www.OwensboroParent.com
“Patience is finding something to do in the mean time.”
- Lisa Spencer Grigsby
“Keep your ears open and your mouth shut and you will learn more.”
- Jil lianee Roberts Starks
“Always keep God first in your life and NO CREDIT CARDS!”
- Katie Case
“Check your oil.” (Advice before every road trip from my dad.)
- Michel le Nebel
“Put God first, your family second, and work hard. Your integrity is in your control.”
- Alecia Potter Meyer
“If it was meant to be... Love will always come back. If not, let it fly.”
- Julie Carrico Hodges
Father Knows Best-- We asked our Facebook fans to post the
best advice they ever received from their dad. These are a few
of our favorites, short and simple, but perfect fatherly advice.
Thanks for contributing!
parent talk
june 2012
8 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
family life
celebratingfatherhood{ b y : l o r a w i m s a t t }
The day everyone takes Dad out to eat … and he picks up the
check. Or the family holds a cookout … with Dad at the grill.
But that’s the way Dad wants it.
Ask any guy how he felt when his wife first announces the
news – “We’re going to have a baby” – and chances are, he’ll say his
emotions were a mix of excitement … and fear.
A lot of men are overwhelmed as they realize they will be
responsible for raising a baby – a child.
For some new fathers, this is an opportunity to relate to their
own dads in a new way. One young father said it this way: “I had
a newfound appreciation for my Dad. I’m sure he felt anxiety
through the years, but as a child, I can say I never felt that or sensed
that from him. I began to also reflect on the things he taught me,
by word and by deed, and then how large a responsibility I felt in
attempting to do the same for my children.”
For other men, however, the trepidation of impending
fatherhood is increased because they didn’t have a close relationship
with their own dad, or their father was not involved in their lives.
“Me and my dad didn’t ever have a strong relationship, so one
thing I want to do is make sure my daughter knows she can tell me
anything, no matter what it is, and I will always be there for her,”
said one first-time dad.
Another young dad said he learned one positive thing from
an absent father: “It showed me how I didn’t want to be,” he said
simply.
Men who previously considered their most important job
around the house to be taking out the trash once a week now say,
“The biggest responsibility of being a father is teaching what’s
right and what’s wrong, and for my child to grow up and know how
important family is.”
“I began to think about how great my parents were and how big
those ‘parent shoes’ must be,” another man said. “For the first time
in my life, a little person was going to look to me for their every
need – what an awesome responsibility this was and is!”
Dads quickly realize that their children depend on them
for more than food, clothing and shelter – little ones also learn
important “life lessons” from Daddy. That prompted one father
to reflect: “I want my children to live by the Golden Rule – ‘treat
others as you would like to be treated yourself.’ I make the effort
to live life this way, and honestly, I’m not as close to perfecting this
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 9www.OwensboroParent.com
as I want to be. But I’d want my children to know this about me in
an effort that they would live this out in their own lives as they grow
up and mature into adults.”
Being a “Daddy” changes everything. As one man said: “It
makes me excited every day I get to wake up and see her little face
in the morning. Now there is never a day I am down because I know
when I get home, she will be there waiting for her Daddy.”
One of the best ways a man can take care of his children is by
taking care of their mother, as shared by this Daddy: “The one
thing I want my daughter to know is that her mother is the most
loving and caring person I have ever met in my life, and that her
father is a lucky person to have married her mom. We have the best
child in the world and we love watching her grow every day.”
There is a special relationship between fathers and sons as the
dad sets the expectation for what kind of man he wants his son
to be. However, those blessed with daughters quickly discover that
“Daddy’s Little Girl” has taken over his heart.
“I have always believed that a father sets the example for who a
man should be and how he should act, especially toward a woman,”
says the father of two girls. “I constantly remind myself that my
relationship with my daughters will have a great impact on what
they look for and expect in a man.”
Although many men struggle to put their feelings into words,
the love for their children comes through.
“My little girl is the best thing that ever happened to me,” said
a first-time Daddy.
Even though the lifelong adventure of fatherhood might begin
with uncertainty, many men find guidance in remembering their
priorities: “I learned that a Dad has to have a heart that seeks to
please God first in his life. If my kids can say their Dad tries very
hard to please God, then I’ll consider my role as a Dad a success.
All the other ‘Dad qualities’ hinge off of this one.”
One Dad said it all when he replied, “I love my children more
than life itself and I consider them a gift from God.”
Even if that gift involves grilling your own burgers on Father’s Day. .
Lora Wimsatt is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday
blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.
OP
Here’s a great father’s day gift idea. Learn more at www.rompfest.com.
10 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
“To educate a person in mind and not in
morals is to educate a menace to society.”
Theodore Roosevelt
family life
playing itsafe oversummer break Ahhhh, the warmer days of summer
are finally here! The smell of the grass,
the crack of the bat, and the splash of the
pool are upon us. But summer fun can
also mean hidden dangers, if parents let
down their guard. Here are some simple
reminders to keep us and our children
injury-free all summer long.
{ b y : d r . b r i a n g a n n o n }
1 Most summer activities are outside, meaning
under the blazing sun. So sunburn is a real risk,
especially when children are outside for such long
periods during the heat of the day. Sunscreen should
be reapplied every 1-2 hours when outside and active
(in other words, sweating), more often if
children are in the water. We usually
remember this at the beach, but it’s
exactly the same sun, even at the
baseball diamond or the playground.
Hats and shade are also helpful to prevent sunburn,
and have the added advantage of being easier on the
eyes than full sun. The best time of day for infants is
early morning (before 10 a.m.), when the temperature
has not reached its peak, and the sun is not as bright.
2 Hydration is always important with
physical activity, but when the outdoor
temperature hits triple digits, the fluid
requirements go even higher. Believe it
or not, the best sports drink occurs in nature,
manufactured by God: water. All the others have
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 11www.OwensboroParent.com
some advantages if you need extra salt or sugar for energy, but really
hydration, pure and simple, is the key. Experts recommend taking a
water break every 20 minutes during hot, humid weather, especially
for athletes involved in vigorous activity (like football or baseball).
After the first hour of practice, children may benefit more from sports
drinks, since the sugar boosts energy levels.
3 Swimming lessons are wonderful to help children conquer fear
of water, but they should not be used to “drown-proof” a child.
Children younger than about 7 still need “touch supervision,” with a
responsible adult within arm’s distance at all times.
Pools also should have locked gates, so children
cannot gain access to them without the help and
supervision of an adult (This includes inflatable
pools, which present their own set of dangers.)
4 If visiting a beach on vacation, please note the flags that show
how safe the water is on a given day. Children should NEVER be in
the water when the red flags are out, because of the danger of choppy
seas, and potential riptides. Riptides are extremely
dangerous waves, occurring when the water at the
bottom is pulling out to sea even though the water on
top appears to be calm or going toward shore. Every
year dozens of people (often adults) drown at beaches
prone to riptides, many of which have no lifeguards. If faced with a
riptide, where you feel yourself being pulled away from shore by the
undercurrent, try to float to the surface and swim parallel to shore
until the water is calmer. NEVER FIGHT AGAINST A RIPTIDE;
YOU WILL LOSE EVERY TIME!
5 Waterskiing and other boating activities can be lots of fun
for older children and teenagers, but they still require careful
supervision. Always remember life jackets, even for strong swimmers,
because rivers and lakes are notoriously unpredictable when it comes to
currents and assessing the depth of the water. Always
be sure there is a designated driver for the boat, who
will not be drinking. At least one supervising adult
must be sober, in the case of emergencies. Most bad
boating injuries are directly related to impaired drivers.
6 Regardless of the activity planned, an emergency medical kit
should be a key part of packing. I would suggest making sure you take
bug spray, sunscreen, pain relievers, itch relief medicines, bandages for
minor injuries, and any routine medications, especially an EpiPen (with
a current expiration date!) for any serious allergic reactions to foods or
insect bites. Topical antibiotic ointment is helpful for cuts and scrapes,
and topical hydrocortisone is available without a prescription to relieve
itching from bug bites or poison ivy. Take a pair of tweezers for tick
removal if going camping or to a wooded area. And if carsickness is an
issue, don’t forget the antinausea medicine for any car
ride longer than an hour or so. Avoiding milk can
prevent some of the unpleasantness of cleaning car
seats during the vacation.
Outdoor fun in the summer is loads of fun, whether
traveling long distances or playing at home. A
few basic precautions can help families avoid an
unplanned trip to the hospital or clinic, which may
tarnish your cherished memories.
For more information visit the American Academy
of Pediatrics online: http://www.aap.org/
Dr Gannon is a seasoned traveler with children, having cleaned lots of car
seats and gone through dozens of tubes of sunscreen the past few years.
OP
12 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
{ b y : j a i m e r a f f e r t y }
In the spring of 2012 Amy Arnold
Bellamy became a published author,
along with her Daddy, at the release of
“their” book, “Kentucky Family.”
family life
Photos by Jason Tanner
Life changed for Amy Arnold Bellamy and family in spring
of 2010.
Amy’s father, Pete passed away suddenly from a heart attack
during a tennis match with friends.
Pete left behind his wife Gail and two grown children, Russ
and Amy, Amy’s husband, Jason, and precious granddaughter
Savannah.
Amy was “Daddy’s girl” and felt growing up in the Pete
Arnold home was special. In fact, she boasts, “It was fun to be
his daughter!”
Pete worked hard to be a good Dad, but also played hard
with his children. He often said, “Russ and Amy, you are the
best toys I’ve ever had.”
Amy can’t deny the characteristics she and Pete shared. Both
outgoing and talkative, making their bond more iron clad. Both
loved music, especially playing their instruments together. Both
had an affinity for reading and writing, Amy became a middle
school language arts teacher while Pete wrote songs and short
stories.
Writing a book was on Amy’s “bucket list,” a list compiled
at her dad’s encouragement. Pete wanted his girl to pursue her
dreams; none were out of reach, so her list was long. He would
affectionately tell her to “get busy.”
Amy shared her authoring aspirations with her Dad but was
met with her own self-doubt. As her biggest fan, Pete urged that
with God all things are possible.
With his passing, Amy realized both of their dreams. God
gave her clarity as she would finally write that book that once
seemed only a dream.
Amy began her “homework” compiling stories while also
reaffirming a commitment to faith, family and fun that her dad
instilled. With that in mind, a theme resonated she couldn’t
overlook-- Pete was just a good ole’ boy that loved the Lord,
his family and life. It may not be fancy, but it’s funny and faith
filled.
This lives on in those who knew Pete and now those who
want know him, thanks to his daughter.
In the spring of 2012 Amy Arnold Bellamy became a
published author, along with her Daddy, at the release of “their”
book, “Kentucky Family.”
Readers may shed a tear recounting Pete’s sudden death, but
moments later Amy provides his humorous retelling of boyhood
antics with his brothers like flying a paper airplane, on fire, into
a pile of clothes, while Mom wasn’t home.
Amy shares, how moments before walking the aisle to be
married, her bridesmaids have a giggling fit. Worried she had
something out of place that could cause embarrassment, she
inquires about their laughter, only to turn and see her daddy in
daddy’s girl
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 13www.OwensboroParent.com
a clown nose, lovingly reminding her that she told him his job for
the day was to make sure there were no tears. He had done his job!
Even in death God is using Pete’s gifts to provide laughter.
As funny as he was, Pete was serious about raising children
who loved the Lord and respect others. Being raised by a single
mother helped him become a better husband and father. He
wasn’t too prideful to admit he didn’t have all the answers.
Amy recalled a time in teen angst she behaved badly and
Pete had to address the situation. In broken honesty he told his
daughter, “I don’t have a dad – sometimes I don’t know what I’m
doing and you’ve got to help me out.”
It’s this vulnerability provided by Amy (and Pete) that gives
a glimpse into the life of a real family. By the last page, every
person may wish they too would have grown up an Arnold.
Feelings surrounding her father’s passing are still “fresh” for
Amy, but being raised by him was an honor, and she is thankful
for the time he was in her life.
They never left anything unsaid, including “I love you.” Her
book is just another “I love you” to her parents, brother, her
husband and daughter.
Pete kept his love for God, his wife and children alive through
the memories he left in their hearts and on paper. Amy gives
readers the
opportunity
to know the
daddy who
e n c o u r a g e d
her, guided her
and took time to
show her how to live
a faith-filled yet fun life
in marriage and parenthood.
Life growing up as an Arnold wasn’t
perfect, but Pete tried to give the family nothing but his best, a
goal his daughter also has now. Amy would agree, it was close
enough to perfect for her because she learned about what really
matters in life from being her Daddy’s girl!
For more information about “Kentucky Family,”
please contact Amy at [email protected] or at
www.amazon.com.
Jaime Rafferty enjoys writing, as a hobby. She lives is Owensboro with her
husband, Paul and their two children.
OP
14 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
There are times when a parent may need to take drastic measures.
By drastic, I don’t mean shooting your child’s laptop full of bullets
or publicly humiliating them on a street corner. I recently watched
a program highlighting parenting gone too far and the events I
described are real. As I watched each story, I thought to myself--
it doesn’t have to be this difficult, does it? Often times kids act out
because they simply can. They don’t respect parental authority.
They may not believe the warning that you’ve given out for the
hundredth time and why should they?!
{ b y : c h r i s t i n a d a l t o n , m s s w , c s w }
This is the story of a family--Mom,
Dad and their three boys (all of
elementary age)--that took drastic
measures to regain their credibility.
These parents took control back and
in return gained enormous respect
that may have been lost somewhere
along the way. The biggest problem
that these parents faced was fighting
in the car. Imagine, if you will, three
boys arguing, fighting and bickering
on the way to each and every place
you went. Just the thought sends a
little shiver down my spine. This
family life
drasticdrastictimes call for
measures
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 15www.OwensboroParent.com
particular family had a trip to the “Happiest Place on Earth”
rapidly approaching. Luckily for them, they were taking my
parenting class and at the time we were covering something called,
Strategic Training Sessions. To summarize a training session, you
pick an issue that is a huge problem for you and devise a detailed
plan to eradicate it, planning for every twist and turn that may
happen.
So….back to my family. They decided to do a “fake” trip to
Disney before the real one, and fingers crossed, the boys would
argue and Dad would turn the vehicle around and rip Disney from
their tiny, little fingers. This is exactly what took place, suitcases
were packed, loaded in the car and they headed for Disney on a
lovely Saturday morning. Not a mere 20-30 minutes into the trip
the fighting began and Dad said, “I will turn this car around if
you guys don’t quit fighting!” How many times had they heard
that before?! About 10 minutes later, Dad gets off on an exit ramp,
turns around and gets back on the interstate, only this time headed
in the opposite direction of Disney. He never spoke a word. These
were the words they heard coming from the backseat, “We’re
so SORRY! We’ll never fight again! Dad! Mom! We promise!!!!
[insert sobbing and loud wailing] Pleeeeeaaaasssseeeee……..”
Dad told the class that he didn’t know what he would have
done if they had actually behaved that day! Back in the car, Dad
wasn’t angry. He didn’t raise his voice. He didn’t even have to
explain why he had turned around. They knew! Dad told them
when they returned home that hopefully they would make better
choices next time and maybe they could try again next year. Just
imagine being an 8- or 9-year-old thinking that you are headed to
Disney World and because of YOUR bad behavior it’s ruined. No
Mickey. No Minnie. Space Mountain, buh-bye! The devastation
would run deep and hurt badly. Turns out that the boys ended up
calling their Dad’s boss and asked if their Dad could please have
more vacation time because they had ruined their trip. The end
of the story is that Dad, Mom and the three boys went to Disney
World two weeks later, on the original planned date and I quote,
“It was the best vacation we’ve ever been on as a family and no
one argued!”
Moral of the story: When Dad says he will turn the car
around…HE WILL!
Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is the Family Resource Center Coordinator
for Daviess County Public Schools.
OP
16 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
stefanie
Once upon a time there was a princess named Stefanie who was
born a beautiful 6-pound, 15-ounce bundle of joy. Initially, she
had no problems, or so it seemed. We wouldn’t discover her limitations
until she was 15 months old, when she developed hydrocephalus,
fluid on the brain that has only a few causes. In Stefanie’s case, the
cause was Hurler’s Syndrome, an inherited metabolic disorder and the
prognosis was very bleak. No cure. Hurler’s also comes with a variety
of other issues, including diminutive stature, mental retardation, joint
stiffness and bone malformation, and clouding of the corneas. But
hope arrived one afternoon when she was seen by a geneticist at the
health department. The same doctor had mentioned the possibility
of a bone marrow transplant when he made the initial diagnosis, and
I asked again about it. He felt it wouldn’t even be a possibility for her
as she had no living siblings. (Her only brother had died of pneumonia
as an infant.) A nurse who overheard the conversation gave me the
number of another mother who knew about bone marrow transplants
and might be able to connect us with a doctor.
Back at home that afternoon I called the number the nurse had
given me and told our story to a doctor who would listen, and without
knowing it, the adventure had begun. Stefanie had a bone marrow
transplant at 21 months with the donor being her dad, who actually
matched her almost perfectly, the first of many miracles for her. By
the first anniversary of her bone marrow transplant, the hydrocephalic
shunt was removed. Four years later right before she started
kindergarten, she had her first corneal transplant for the clouding of
the corneas. She wore a cute pink eye patch to school to protect it from
injury or infection. The next year the other eye was repaired. More
miracles.
Her limitations were always in the eyes of others. To her dad and
me, she was perfect. But most of all she found her own way around every
single obstacle. Stefanie hardly ever complained, but some times her
shortness bothered her. I remember praying with her one night when
she asked God to just make her medium. She didn’t have to be large.
But Stefanie’s power came across best in a miniature body. I don’t know
how many times Luke and I were told that she had us wrapped around
her little fingers. But I didn’t care; nothing she asked of us was ever
hard. We weren’t the only ones captivated by her. Her smile and laugh
were contagious. She could and would talk to almost everyone. Once
family life
a princessnamed
{ b y : c a m m a t t h e w s } Photo by True Reflections Photography
Luke and Cam Matthews lost their daughter,
Stefanie, just 26 years old, on April 21, 2012.
She was no ordinary child, touching the lives
of anyone she encountered. Owensboro
Parent was happy to welcome Cam as a
special writer for this month’s issue. This
is Stefanie’s story, told by a proud mother,
forever changed by the life and positive spirit
of her daughter.
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 17www.OwensboroParent.com
she had met you, she never forgot you. Tell her your birthday once and
it was saved permanently. Everyone was equal in Stefanie’s eyes, which
allowed her to sit in the lap of a principal (without asking first), play
with the ears of a superintendent at a ballgame, hug the custodians
every day, buddy up to the lunch ladies, console teachers through hard
times, make friends with a fellow students of all walks, ignore that
some folks were giants compared to her, and in general make everyone
who ever met her even once fall in love with her. She gave love freely
and was rewarded many times over. Every aunt and uncle and cousin
was her “favorite.” One was the favorite in Utica, another Handyville,
yet another in Glasgow, or Owensboro, or Orlando, or Birmingham.
She was never the diplomat, so whoever was with her at the time was
her favorite. Thank goodness Luke and I were with her all the time,
so we had permanent favorite status. As my sister-
in-law so aptly said, “To know Stefanie was to love
Stefanie.”
Stefanie was never afraid to let anyone know
what she needed or wanted, and we’re pretty sure
she always got it. But she was neither greedy nor
selfish, often giving away stuff. Stefanie once
proclaimed that shopping was her life, but she was
one of the most generous people I have ever known.
She was always willing to share her stuff because
truthfully people were her life. She loved attention
and she loved to give attention. Stefanie had a deal
with her Papaw that if she gave him a hug she’d
always find a dollar in his pocket. She shared this
little game with several uncles and great uncles and before we knew it,
she was reaping dollars everywhere she went. When one great uncle
died, everyone in his family made up for his absence and the missing
dollar. One of Stefanie’s hobbies was making coasters with Perler
beads, many of which she would design especially as a gift for someone.
She was prolific, making 10 or so any given week. Eventually, we had
a surplus of these, so I purchased a plastic storage box to keep them in.
Whenever she needed to give a gift, she would sort through that box
until she found the exact right one. Her first year at Apollo, Luke and
I deposited enough money in her lunch account for a month, but two
weeks later, I was told she needed more funds. When I asked where all
the money had gone, I was told she was getting breakfast each day, too.
That afternoon in the car, I asked her why she was getting breakfast
at school when she refused to eat at home. (She was never much on
breakfast.) Stefanie informed me that she was buying breakfast for
some of the special needs kids in her class that wanted it. I told her
we probably couldn’t afford to keep doing that, but I also told her
that I loved her giving spirit. I learned to be much more giving and
thoughtful by her example. She has kept the Matthews clan connected
to each other with frequent phone call updates as to what is going on
with each family. We’ve always joked that if you didn’t want particular
news to circulate, you’d best not let Stefanie know because it would be
national news in moments.
Stefanie loved everything Disney, but especially Tinker Bell. She
was part princess, part spunky fairy, part child, part wise old woman.
She dated the passage of the year by how close to “Disney Time” it was.
She once told us that the best part of Disney was that we three were
together all the time, focused on each other and nothing else. No work
or household chores or other obligations to distract us from her. And we
loved that, too. After one trip, we made her room and bathroom over,
designed by her to express her love of Tinker Bell and the princesses.
She was totally in awe of the characters at the parks,
kissing their noses, cautioning them about certain
behaviors, wishing them happy birthday, tickling
their bellies, dancing with them, and basically,
loving on them. She had favorite restaurants, too:
Chef Mickeys, Garden Grill, and The Crystal Palace
– though food took second place to the characters.
Her favorite park was Magic Kingdom with it’s a
small world and Haunted Mansion as her favorite
rides.
She did NOT like to be called “honey,”
“sweetheart,” or any other substitute for her name.
She would declare she was “Stefanie.” In fact, at
Kosair Children’s Hospital recently the doctors
told her that she was a puzzle. She was 26, which meant she was an
adult. Trust me, she made sure everyone understood that despite her
diminutive size she was an adult. But the doctors stated that she was
also tiny like a child. So they asked her to tell them what she felt she
was-- a child or an adult. Her response was, “I’m Stefanie.” And that
summed her up perfectly.
Last November we celebrated her 24th anniversary of her bone
marrow transplant, amazed at how well she had been all those years.
She hardly ever caught anything worse that a little cold. Then in
February she had to undergo dental surgery to repair several teeth with
cavities. Unfortunately, when the dentist got in there, he discovered
that because her teeth had very short roots, seven teeth had to be pulled.
He was also amazed that she had a monster abscess on one tooth that
would have had most adults groaning in excruciating pain. We knew
Stefanie had a high tolerance for pain, acting both as her enemy and
her friend. Her little body did not alert her (or her Mom and Dad) that
it had had big problems going on for some time. She seemed to recover
well at first as the gums healed up, eating her favorite foods-- chicken
18 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
and macaroni ‘n cheese. But then she quit eating and just getting her to
eat a tiny meal took an hour. As she began to lose weight, we took her
in to see the doctor. Except for the failure to eat, Stefanie seemed fine.
Then one day her little tummy, which was always a little chubby due
to the Hurler’s, ballooned out. An emergency room visit showed some
issues in her liver. Before we knew it, Stefanie and I were in the back of
an ambulance headed to Louisville with Luke following behind in our
car. Five days later her stomach was still very swollen, a colonoscopy
had uncovered a cancerous polyp (which they felt had been contained),
and we were joyfully headed back home with a long list of discharge
orders for us and her primary care physician.
Over Spring Break, she and I spent our time either watching Disney
movies or running to various labs for one test after another. On Friday,
April 6, her doctor called to tell me the test results. The CAE test for
cancer cells is at 0.0 – 3.0 normally, but Stefanie’s was over 700. The
doctor and I discussed when to admit her as it was Easter weekend.
Since he felt nothing significant would be done until Monday, we made
the decision to wait until Monday to admit her, allowing her and us to
enjoy time at home with more Disney movies. When I turned to tell
her what the doctor had said, I began to cry and my sweet little girl
said, “This is a shock to you, Mom.” As always she was more worried
about me than herself. I called Luke who immediately came home as
caring for Stefanie has always been teamwork for us. We three entered
the hospital on Monday, April 9, praying that the cancer would be
treatable, and Stefanie even seemed a bit perkier that morning. The
next three days were spent enduring one test after another with the
prognosis looking bleaker with each one. Through it all, Stefanie kept
that incredibly positive attitude that had characterized her all her life.
When doctors, nurses, or visitors asked how she was doing, she said,
“Okay” or “Fine.” One time she answered, “I don’t know,” and my
heart ached. She was a little warrior, attempting without complaint to
do whatever we or the doctors were asking of her in order to get better.
But none of us realized the day we entered the hospital that we’d only
have two more weeks together. The worst news came on Thursday after
the results of a CT scan of Stefanie’s liver showed what one doctor
called a nightmare. Stage 4 metastatic cancer throughout her abdomen,
including her liver, colon, and ovaries with an unknown origin. I sat
at a nurse’s station listening over the phone as the doctor continued
his gruesome description and praying that in spite of all I was hearing
that God would perform one more miracle for a little girl who was
the epitome of all God wants of each of us. The process of caring for
Stefanie sped up at this point. She was scheduled for surgery early the
next morning, but until the surgeon opened her up we had no idea of
how extensive the procedure would be. The fluid on her belly that had
family life
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 19www.OwensboroParent.com
discover
prompted our concern was drained and the surgeon removed a tumor
on her colon (ultimately the origin of her cancer) and re-sectioned it
so that she did not have to have a colostomy. He also removed one
cancerous ovary, though nothing could be done for the liver. We felt
hope and our goal became to get her to Disney World one more time.
The very next day, Friday the 13th, Luke and I learned that Stefanie’s
cancer had spread into the connective tissue, which is worse than in the
liver, and in someone as small as she was, basically untreatable. But
the hope was still there that we’d get her out of the hospital and off to
Orlando. At the time she was in CCU for close monitoring, but doing
very well after major surgery. Her only complaint at that moment was
the catheter. She wanted it out. In fact, when she learned that it would
come out Friday morning, she woke me at midnight to let me know
it was Friday, and it needed to come out now. She was remarkable.
By Saturday we were back upstairs, she was walking, talking, watching
movies, playing with stickers, and even eating a little. Stefanie was
more herself than she had been in a month. And the days progressed
pretty much in that fashion with us learning we might get to go home
Sunday or Monday.
Saturday, April 21 began well with Stefanie taking a walk, doing
physical therapy for her legs, and drinking her favorite, Dr. Pepper.
In the afternoon, she announced she wanted to sit on my lap, and I
was so ready to hold her again. Most moms don’t get the opportunity
to hold their adult kids in their laps, but it is still one of my fondest
memories of her. Late in the evening just as a blood transfusion was
almost complete, Stefanie became very agitated and uncomfortable;
her speech slurred and her blood oxygen levels plummeted. Luke and
I were holding her hands, reminding her over and over that we loved
and would always love her. Within a few short minutes, she was gone.
No fear, no pain. Except for all of us left behind whose lives she had
forever changed.
Though I am a school teacher, Stefanie was my teacher every single
day. She has taught me that for all my organized lists, nothing is more
important than people. She treasured every day and helped me see
beauty, fun, and happiness in so many little things. Her impact on
people is difficult to explain; however, all of us long to be cared about,
and Stefanie did just that for everyone she met. In the days since, we
have heard so many Stefanie stories, and each resounds with her love
and joy for life. Our home was never quiet when she was there; instead,
it was a warm place full of laughter, hugs, and talk. Our home is quieter
now, but the overwhelming warmth of so many Stefanie memories
remains. OP
20 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
discover
{ b y : j o h n m o o r e }
discover
sportsand why parents do what they do
Ever wonder if all the travels, hotels, team meals, uniforms, and
other sacrifices we make for our kids so they can play sports
are really worth it? How about all the time away from family?
Summer vacations no longer feel like vacations, and those family
dinners and good, old fashion, last minute get-togethers don’t seem
to come around as often.
So why do we do it? It is often said that our kids learn much
more from our actions than our words. All these actions described
above are teaching two very good lessons, sacrifice and discipline.
There were countless hours of transporting me to practice, not just
local games, but often drives to other states even before the sun
came out. Uniforms always washed, food packed, and all the while
trying to encourage me to give my best effort. I’ll admit it wasn’t
until later in life when I started running my own kids around that
I realized all the sacrifices my mother had made.
But it is this same sacrifice that when your child becomes an
adult they will need to draw from to manage their lives. Whether it
is at home, advancing their educations, or even their careers, there
will be plenty of times they will need to make sacrifices, and your
example will be living proof. We can only hope they remember,
but again that’s what makes this an even greater sacrifice!
Even more important than the sacrifice we demonstrate may
be the discipline we are encouraging. Discipline is the ability to
motivate oneself in spite of negative forces or ideas. We can all use
more discipline in our lives, and I will be the first to admit, mine
seems to come and go at times. Regardless, I don’t know where I
would be if I did not have my experience from sports to draw from.
Again, my mother set the example. How many times do you not
feel like getting out and taking your child to practice or missing
a game because of a social event so they can play in a game?
Somehow you find the will power to get up and do it.
Discipline includes will power, hard work, and persistence. In
the competitive real world we all live in, these traits are almost
a must. Your child is learning this first hand. There will be
plenty of days they will not feel like playing, maybe even seasons.
Regardless, if they truly want to be the best they can be, they will
need discipline to overcome these negative forces and continue to
work towards their ultimate goals.
Sports really do teach us many important life lessons. The next
time you feel a little tired or start looking for reasons to encourage
your child not to participate, remember it may not be until years
later that all the rewards are reaped. Dig deep, be willing to sacrifice
a little more, and know the discipline you are demonstrating and
they are living can have a positive impact on their lives for years to
come. You are building a base that your child can draw on, all the
while getting to enjoy watching their development first hand.
John Moore, entrepreneur and fitness freak, owns Legends where he combines
three of his passions-- family, fitness and fun. He enjoys the opportunity to bring
Western Kentucky the coolest, newest items in form, function and fashion.
OP
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 21www.OwensboroParent.comwww.O
There are thousands of families waiting anxiously for that special person to make a sacrifice in
order to save a life. You can explore for yourself at www.donatelife.net andwww.organdonor.gov
22 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
it’s abouthaving fun{ b y : d e a n e h r e n h e i m }
Youth sports can evoke many images…good and bad. I
remember an “Aha!” moment that reminded me about the
true nature of sports. My second son was playing center field on his
first T-ball team. He had his game face on. He anxiously bounced
back and forth from one foot to the other, just waiting for the kid on
the other team to whack one out his way.
Then it happened. The ball was hit and bounced out near the
unmanned pitching mound (remember, this was T-ball). The ball
dribbled out past second base into center field. Trevor snatched
up the ball and readied his throw. But he stopped in mid-swing.
Without moving his lips, his body language shouted, “What the
heck?” Then I looked at his target. Why was anyone surprised… the
first baseman was chasing a butterfly and oblivious to any baseball
game being played. The runner passed by first without a challenge.
Then Trevor looked to his next mark, second base. There sat his
second base players, twin girls scooping up dry dirt in their hands
and making perfectly shaped pyramids. Runner rounded second.
By this time, Trevor, clever 4-year old that he was, saw the reality of
the situation and began running after the hitter, arm stretched out,
ball in glove, racing to make the tag. By this time it was too late and
the hitter gained, what I am sure, was his first infield home run.
Frustrated beyond belief, Trevor dropped the ball, slapped his leg
with his glove and walked back to center field pushing his chin into
his chest and shaking his head the whole way.
It couldn’t have been scripted any funnier. I learned that day
that T-ball was not about baseball. T-ball is backyard fun for kids
and parents. Of course it should teach the fundamentals of baseball
(hitting, catching, running), but for kids it’s not about winning or
losing, it’s about having fun! After seeing this episode, I realized
what a challenge these parent coach volunteers had in coaching
T-ball. It was like herding cats.
Coaching your child in T-ball has its own set of challenges and
is very different from coaching your children in more sophisticated
levels of athletics.
I was able to help coach my two oldest sons in high school
swimming. I enjoyed having that shared experience and felt I could
help them reach their potential. But I was not their main coach and
felt awkward sharing too much information with them at meets
and practices. They were good about dad helping out, but as my
little T-ball outfielder Trevor, now 21, said to me the other day, “I
don’t know that I was always ready to hear what you had to say back
then.” And it was true, not bad nor good, just true.
It is important to determine if coaching your child will build
that great experience sports can create.
One parent coach success story is track and cross country coach
Tony Rowe of Daviess County High School. He coached both of
his boys at County. Not only was he “dad,” he was a productive
coach, having 10 Kentucky State Championships and numerous
individual state champions.
Mark Rowe is currently following in dad’s footsteps and has
advice from an ordinary dad
discover
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 23www.OwensboroParent.com
coached track and cross country at Owensboro High School since
2010.
“I liked running for my dad. It was an exciting time and I didn’t
know any other way,” Mark said. “I knew if I ran I would run for
him. My best memories are cross country and track meets growing
up.”
Coaching when things are going great is easy. But when your
child athlete hits an athletic plateau, things could be strained.
“I know it had to have been tough at times for my dad,” Mark
said. “Especially my senior year; I didn’t run as strong as I had
hoped. But we both worked through it together.”
Coach Rowe says, “I tried not to put too much pressure on my
boys. I tried to be dad at home and not talk too much about running
there.”
Second son Matt, now coaching with his father at Daviess
County, mirrored the comments from brother Mark, but added,
“On those times when you just think your Dad (coach) is being too
hard on you because you are his kid, you just have to learn to brush
that off-- I mean don’t take it personally.”
Remember, it’s their memory and experience you are trying to
shape. For those ready to step into the parent coach role, here is
some ordinary advice to consider:
Separate the Parent from the C oachDon’t bring the game or practice home. Make sure when you leave
the field, pool, court or track you take some time to shift gears into
parent mode.
Treat Your Child Fairly Parents know more about their own kids than they do other kids.
Don’t use that against them. Allow them to be kids and act like
kids. Even though your expectations may not be unreasonable, you
can’t expect perfection all of the time. The natural tendency may
be to push them harder because of that special insight. Don’t treat
them differently
because they
didn’t make their
bed; don’t focus on
what happened in the
‘parent world’ when you
are coaching.
Talk Openly with Your Child Treat your child like an athlete. But also explain
that there may be times when the roles between parent and coach
become blurred. Allow your child to respectfully share when they
believe that is happening. As coach, you have an opportunity to
watch and shape your child like no other time, but creating good
communication is essential to benefit from this opportunity.
Establish Rules of C onduct Part of communication is establishing some clear expectations.
One coach set a rule that any parent who yelled at an umpire would
get their kid benched. That meant, even as coach, he couldn’t yell
at the umpire because he didn’t want to bench his own son. In
addition, make sure you set those same clear rules of conduct for
your child and for you.
Keep First Things FirstRemember your primary role is parent. Don’t let anything interfere
with that. Keep in mind that sports are an experience for the kids
and they should enjoy that experience. If you can coach and help
create that positive experience-- all the better. These memories,
good or bad, will be for a lifetime.
jor life. Embrace the moments you share with your dad.”Dean Ehrenheim, with his wife Jeanette, is raising four great kids. He regularly
writes about his experiences in parenting, coaching and wellness. His email is
OP
Advice for those
ready to step into the
parent-coach
role.
24 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
{ b y : j a n w a r d }
The fittest and fastest swimmers in the world will soon be on
world view in the 2012 Summer Olympics. Many children
will watch the Olympics and get inspired to give competitive
swimming a try, with gold medal stars in their eyes.
While the reality is that very few of them will ever realize
that dream, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t give competitive
swimming a try. My favorite book as a child was “The Olympic
Dream.” I can’t even find a copy now, but when I was 9, 10, and 11,
I read this book over and over until it fell apart. I was nationally
ranked as a 10-year-old (in the top 10 in a few events). Yet, I am
not sitting here today writing about my time in the Olympics.
That dream was never realized. So why would anyone choose
competitive swimming as a sport?
A Life Shaped by Swimming When I look back over my lifetime, I would not be the person
I am today if it hadn’t been for competitive swimming. I took
lessons at age 3, and at 5, joined the local USS swimming team, the
Ashland Aquabears. I started swimming for the Paul Blazer Varsity
High School team in 3rd grade, which led to receiving 10 varsity
letters. The rules were a little different back then!
After high school, I continued my swimming career--with a
swimming scholarship--at Transylvania University. These were
four of the best years of my life. I learned what it was truly like to
be part of a team, how hard work and dedication could really pay
off. Literally, sometimes.
Not only was swimming my primary sport for most of my life,
it was also my primary source of income. I started teaching lessons
at age 13, lifeguarding at age 14, and at 18, I served as head coach of
the local club team I had swum for all my life. I started a master’s
swim team (yes, for “old” people) while attending occupational
therapy school in Nashville. I ended up coaching a summer club
team as well.
I have continued to find ways to be around the pool or open
water. After college, I continued with swimming by competing in
triathlons. I was a little unusual because most triathletes start with
running or biking and then pick up swimming. So I often coached
triathletes on swimming, their weakest link.
I qualified for the Hawaiian Ironman World Championships in
1997 and 1998. Many people thought this was an impossible feat,
but swimming prepared me by showing me that working hard and
dedicating myself to an end goal, anything was possible.
As I was beginning my career in Occupational Therapy, I
just couldn’t stay away from the water. Not long after moving to
Many children will watch the Olympics and get
inspired to give competitive swimming a try.
swimmingdive in to
discover
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 25www.OwensboroParent.com
Owensboro to pursue my career as an occupational therapist,
I got the opportunity to be an assistant coach for the local
USA swim team, the Owensboro Marlins. Then, as fate
would have it, the Aquatics Manager position opened
up at the OMHS Healthpark, and with that job, the
position as the assistant coach would continue!
Why NO T Swimming?I have a hard time seeing why most kids don’t choose
swimming over other sports. Physicians and physical
therapists praise swimming as one of the best ways to
stay in shape.
Swimming• works most muscles in your body all in the same
workout due to water resistance, promoting a toned,
strong body;
• creates a strong body “core,” because the hips, back and
abdominal muscles must work together to create effective and
efficient swimming;
• promotes greater lung capacity and a consistent intake of oxygen
since both aerobic and anaerobic systems are worked; and
• boasts one of the lowest injury rates of all sports!
The Best of Team and Individual Sports One great aspects of competitive swimming is that everyone on
the team gets to participate! It is a team sport in which individuals
compete. Most USA swim meets offer 12-15 events per age group,
so everyone can compete and find something at which they are
successful.
Children can begin with lessons, transition to summer league,
join a year round club team, compete in high school and even
continue their career through college. It is sport that rewards
hard work and dedication unlike any other.
The efficiency of swimming doesn’t come easily to most. To be
exceptional, you have to put in the time. Not everyone will make
the Olympic Team, and that’s true of any sport. But swimming
is one sport where you and only you are responsible for your
individual success. And, by dedicating your life to swimming, you
never know what awaits you later in life!
Jan Ward is the Aquatics Manager at the OMHS HealthPark and the Assistant
Coach of the Owensboro Marlins.
OP
OP
26 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
How To P layHere’s how it works: it’s basically golf with Frisbees. Instead
of a flag in a hole on the green, you have a basket that catches
the disc when you get close enough to “putt.” Just like in
regular golf, each basket has a par depending on the length
and level of difficulty. Instead of “teeing off,” each basket has a
starting “box” that gives you a few steps to wind up and throw.
The strategy comes in how you throw. The two most common
methods are the side-arm-throw or the across-the-body-throw.
Serious disc golfers have fancy bags full of discs for certain
shots: drivers, putters, short range, long range, discs that curve
left, discs that curve right, etc. But I’m a weird one: I have two
discs that I really like and that’s all I ever use. It may not sound
like all that much fun just throwing a disc, chasing it, and then
throwing it again. But I’m telling you, once you see that first
nice throw fly perfectly and land right where you aimed it,
you’re hooked!
Where to P layThe two most popular courses in Owensboro are at Panther
Creek Park (South entrance) and Yellow Creek Park (back by
the trails), but you can also find some baskets strewn across
campus at KWC. Branching out a little further, Vastwood
Park in Hancock County has a really nice course and there’s
also a course over at Mesker Park in Evansville. Once you’ve
mastered the local courses, Bowling Green has seven courses or
something ridiculous like that.
Getting StartedThe most important thing about disc golf is you can’t use regular
Frisbees. Disc golf discs are designed with a special material
and weighted so they fly low and straight or curve a certain
direction. You can buy discs at Legends or order them online.
Innova and DiscKraft are two of the most popular brands and
prices start around $12 and up, depending on brand and range.
Word to the wise: never buy a green, brown, or camouflage
disc because they’re even more difficult to find in the weeds or
woods. My friend made that mistake. Trust me, you’ll save time
and frustration buying really bright discs. That is until I can
patent my next million dollar idea: discs with a built in locator
that whistles back when you clap for it. (Man, I’m a genius!)
So get out there and discover disc golf! Maybe I’ll see you on the
course this summer.
Danny May is a husband, father of two boys (4 and 2), and works at Our Lady
of Lourdes Catholic Church.
disc golf
I won’t lie-- I probably haven’t thrown my discs
since our kids were born. But there was a time when
I played twice a week or more. And I can’t wait until
our boys are old enough to play with me. Because
that’s the thing-- anyone can play disc golf! And
after you have your discs it’s free to play.
{ b y : d a n n y m a y }
OP
discovering
discover
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 27www.OwensboroParent.com
The Owensboro Oilers are ready to start their 40-game season
competing against four other teams in the Ohio Valley Summer
Collegiate League (OVL for short). Oilers president Charlie
Pierce said the Oilers recently moved to Chautauqua for
several reasons: the lighting is better for night games, there’s
more parking and there are better bathroom facilities. The
Oilers definitely have a hometown feel, featuring several local
graduated high school and college players. And here’s the best
news: general admission tickets are $5, 55+ are $4, and kids
12 and under are free! Season tickets start at $40 and this year
they’ve started a brand new family season pass, which gets your
whole family into to every home game for just $75! You can check
the schedule at www.owensborooilers.com or call Charlie Pierce
at 929-6203.
You could also travel just down the Natcher Parkway, to Bowling
Green. Playing off the Corvette claim to fame, the Bowling
Green Hotrods have a new stadium (built in 2009) and lots of
promotions to fill the stands, including fireworks every Saturday
night home game. Recent guest celebrities include “Mr. Belding”
from Saved by the Bell for teacher appreciation night and 80s
wrestling star “Sergeant Slaughter” for military appreciation
night. One of my favorites is bark at the park night, where you
can bring your pets along. Christian Family Radio WCVK also
sponsors Faith and Family nights a couple times a season, which
include a concert. The Hotrods are a class A minor league team
and they are actually the farm team for the Tampa Bay Rays.
Tickets start at $7. Check www.bghotrods.com or call (270) 901-
2121 for more details.
The “Great American Pastime” is in full swing. You can always drive to St. Louis or Cincinnati for
some major league action, but if you’re just looking for some good ole fashioned baseball, then you
have to look no further than Chautauqua Park to “root, root, root for the home team.”
take me outto the ballgame
{ b y : d a n n y m a y }
OP
28 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
{ b y : a s h l e y s o r c e }
The last weekend of June, Bluegrass music will take over
Owensboro at the 9th annual ROMP: Bluegrass Roots &
Branches Festival.
`The festival, unique to the Owensboro community, will feature
a “mesh of traditional Bluegrass Americana and country music,”
said Danny Clark, International Bluegrass Museum Marketing
Director.
Last year ROMP introduced a new,
more modern line-up, according to Clark,
which tapped into a larger fan base,
introducing new people to Bluegrass
music. Clark says that a third of the
ROMP audience will be from out of state
and expects over 12,000 people to come out
to Yellow Creek Park for music and a full
pallet of activities.
Clark says around 30 craft vendors will set up shop at Yellow
Creek for the festival, selling handmade, quality items, including
crafts made from recycled goods.
This year, ROMP will debut numerous organized children’s
activities for the first time. Something for the kids will be available
the whole weekend event.
“This is a good family-friendly event,” Clark said.
The Kentucky All-Stars is a featured, kid-centered event. The
concept is simple, the museum hopes to grow the biggest Bluegrass
band on Earth, holding Saturday lessons for several months! The
group, consisting mainly of children, not only have great fun
playing great music together, forming
family bands and youth bands, but
also aim to preserve our bluegrass
music, indigenous to the state.
The Kentucky All-stars have
doubled since last year. During the
festival, 200 to 300 young musicians
will perform.
Kids age 14 and under are
free and a new discount for high
school students was implemented this year.
The International Bluegrass Museum produces ROMP as a
primary fundraiser. All money from the festival directly funds the
museum. OP
community
rompbluegrass roots & branches festival
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 29www.OwensboroParent.com
You may purchase tickets for ROMP online at rompfest.com or by calling (270) 926-7891
THURSDAY
• 5:00 Snap Jackson and the Knock on Wood Players
• 6:00 Some Rye Grass
• 7:00 Jesse McReynolds & Friends,Tribute to Jerry Garcia,Songs of
the Grateful Dead
• 8:15 Vince Gill
• 10:00 Greensky Bluegrass
• 11:45 After Party: Farewell Drifters, Renegade String Band
FRIDAY
• 10:00 Grandview Junction
• 11:00 Higher Ground
• 12:00 Don Stanley & Middle Creek
• 1:00 Renegade String Band
• 2:15 Belfry Fellows
• 3:30 Monroeville
• 4:45 Town Mountain
• 6:00 The Farewell Drifters
• 7:20 Lonesome River Band
• 8:40 The Deadly Gentlemen
• 10:00 Punch Brothers
• 11:45 After Party: Bawn in the Mash, Belfry Fellows
SATURDAY
• 10:00 County Line Bluegrass
• 11:00 Kentucky BlueGrass AllStars and Arnold Shultz Revival
• 11:45 Snap Jackson and the Knock on Wood Players
• 1:00 The Expedition Show
• 2:15 Newtown
• 3:30 NewFound Road
• 4:45 Bearfoot
• 6:00 Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three
• 7:20 The 23 String Band
• 8:40 Carolina Chocolate Drops
• 10:00 Old Crow Medicine Show
• 11:45 After Party: The Deadly Gentlemen, The 23 String Band
30 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
facebookphotosTouchdown! Home run! Goal! Here are some of our favorite
photo submissions of your kiddos playing their favorite sports. Thanks for sending us your photos!
community
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 31www.OwensboroParent.com
32 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
Ron Leonard believes his wife, Connie, who lost her battle to breast cancer in February, is present at every race. “Though she is not here with us today she still continues to to push us down the hill,” Leonard said.
{ b y : a s h l e y s o r c e }
racesoff to the
community
For Ron Leonard, The Owensboro Lions Club Soap Box
Derby is a family affair.
The family began their racing career in 2002, when Lenoard’s
nephew, James, entered for the first time. In 2003, they added
another car with niece, Lauren, who was the first to go to Akron
for national competition. In 2005, another niece, Kelsey, entered
a car in the race. Soon Leonard’s sons, Aaron and Jacob, both
entered the race, with daughter Kaylee designated as family
cheerleader.
Leonard even believes his wife, Connie, who lost her battle to
breast cancer in February, is present at every race.
“Though she is not here with us today she still continues to to
push us down the hill,” Leonard said.
This family believes that Soap Box Derby brings them closer
together, noting the quality time, communication and team work
from each member strengthens their family unit.
“It’s fun, you get to be with family, and you get to travel to
exciting places, like racing in a mall,” according to Aaron, Jacob
and Kaylee Leonard.
The Leonards buy their cars as a kit from the All-American
Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, following a rulebook that all
racers must follow when building a car.
“Soap box derby becomes your life,” Leonard said.
The Soap Box Derby is a great opportunity for family
involvement with a child’s interest, according to John Austin,
one of the Owensboro Lions regularly involved.
When soap box racing began in the 1930s to 1950s, the child
was supposed to build the car themselves. Early car kits were not
like the kits today, which include fiberglass or composite bodies
with floorboards and hardware that usually requires the help of
a parent or other adult.
The All American Soap Box Derby Association is the
sanctioning body of the races. Based in Akron, Ohio, the
association began in 1933. They govern the conduct of races as
well as the rules of the sport including car construction, weight
limits and distributions. Racers range from 7 to 17 years of age
and compete in one of three divisions-- Stock, Super Stock and
Masters. There is also a Super Kids division for developmentally
challenged children, a race that will hopefully return to
Owensboro in 2013.
Photos by Jason Tanner
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 33www.OwensboroParent.com
Winners in each division of a sanctioned local race earn a trip
to Akron Ohio to participate in the Nationals, which are held in
July each year. The young drivers are treated like racing stars that
entire week, addressed as “champions.” Additionally, drivers can
earn points by racing throughout the year on the Rally Circuit
and thereby also earn a trip to compete in the Nationals.
The Owensboro Lions Club re-introduced the Soap Box
Derby race in the Owensboro community in 2001 as a fundraising
activity. The funds generated by the race are used in efforts to
serve the community through traditional Lions Club eye care
fundraising as well as contributions to various charities and
scholarships in the community.
The new, local track in Owensboro will host Rally races and
draw competitors from a broad geographical area.
“There were drivers from Tallahassee, Indianapolis,
Chattanooga and St. Louis at our first two Rally races,” Austin
said.
Ashley is a first-time mommy, a not-so-newlywed, an organizational freak and the
editor of this awesome magazine. (Which is, of course, a totally unbiased opinion.)
OP
34 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
plan your family’sstay-cation{ b y : c h r i s t y r a m e y }
With input comes ownership and more joy in the journey!
With summer here, it’s time to rest, rejuvenate, and spend
quality time together. However, increasing prices for
gasoline, airfare, lodging, and entertainment may make this
year’s summer getaway shorter or scaled back some. But that
doesn’t mean that you have to do without a vacation, just take a
stay-cation.
Have a family meeting:Every vacation begins with a plan, so bring the family together,
maybe around a bowl of popcorn, and give everyone a calendar
to fill out. {Remember: Making memories does not have to
involve spending money. It just needs to be an experience you
share together.}
At your family meeting, plan a calendar of events that might
include:
· Trips to visit relatives
· Visits from friends
· Vacation Bible School
· Free close events (See OPM’s calendar of events each issue)
· Library visits
· A farm visit
· Trip to an orchard
· A picnic in the park
· Backyard activities
· Swimming
· Water games at your house (Ask others over to play.)
· Board game nights
· Make homemade ice cream. (Call the Extension Office at
685-8480 for directions to prepare Bag in a Bag Homemade Ice
Cream - no equipment needed.)
· Plan a scavenger hunt one evening.
· Watch 4th of July fireworks.
· Plan back-to-school shopping and events.
· Build a birdhouse.
You will be surprised at how fast your calendar fills up and how
excited your children will be as they look forward to each day.
family fun
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 35www.OwensboroParent.com
P lan theme weeks:Here are some examples:
Airplanes
· Go to the airport and watch the planes land and take off.
· Read books about World War II planes.
· Watch movies that involve planes.
· Investigate the Wright Brothers.
· Build a model airplane from recycled items.
· Tour the Owensboro Science Museum.
Plan lots of outside activities
One of my son’s favorite activities was to lie down in the grass
at night and watch the sky. He, of course, would not do this
alone, but with his dad, who could point out planes, stars and
satellites!
· Catch lightening bugs. (I promote catch and release.)
· Catch frogs.
· Look for a praying mantis.
· Watch ants build and carry dirt.
· Go fishing.
· Bird watch; name them by keeping a record; and then research
their tweet!
Farm Animals
· Visit a farm with animals.
· Visit a petting zoo.
· Go to a pond and observe all the bugs, frogs, fish, turtles, etc.
· Draw pictures.
· Check out books from the library.
· Watch Charlotte’s Web.
Other Activities
· Make an obstacle course and time the team or individual.
· Teach kids how to use the stopwatch to see how fast they can
do it. Then challenge them to improve their time.
· Do fun relay races. (Use spoons, brooms, balloons, ping pong
balls, clothes, etc.)
All of these are activities that teach us to look and listen.
Let the family decide where to go, what to do and how much it
could cost. Then everyone contributes to the “vacation fund”
in some small way. With input comes ownership and more joy
in the journey!
Christy Ramey is the Daviess County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer
Sciences. She has been married for 38 years and have three children and three
grandchildren.
OP
36 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
community
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 37www.OwensboroParent.com
SaturdayDenny’s (after 4:00 p.m.)
Texas Roadhouse (11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)
RocaBar (11:00-2:00 p.m.)
SundayTumbleweed (all day)
Texas Roadhouse (11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)
RocaBar (11:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm)
Salsarita’s (all day)
MondayShoney’s (up to 2 kids eat free with adult purchase)
T.G.I. Fridays (all day)
Zaxby’s (5:00 to 8:00 p.m. - kids eat for 99
TuesdayApplebee’s (all day)
Fazoli’s (all day - kids eat for 99 cents)
Pizza By the Guy (all day)
Salsarita’s (all day)
Denny’s (all day)
Beef O’Brady’s (4:00 to 8:00 p.m.)
WednesdayOle South BBQ (4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 2 kids eat buffet
w/ adult purchase)
ThursdayBee Bop’s (after 5:00 p.m. w adult meal)
Captain D’s (2 kids w adult meal)
Who doesn’t love to save money? We have compiled a list of restaurants offering children discounts. If you see one we missed, Contact the editor at [email protected]. *Please be sure to contact the resturant for specific details. Discounts are subject to change and Owensboro Parent is not responsible for incorrect listings.
kids eat free
family fun
38 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
FRIDAY, JUNE 1FLIGHT SIMULATOR The Owensboro Museum
of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Familiar Faces (R&B Dance
Band) on the BB&T Plaza; Heath & Molly Eric
in the Courtyard; Street Fair: Soap Box Derby
Festival; 6 -10 p.m.; (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 - 10 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC Theatre Workshop of
Owensboro brings “The Sound of Music” to the
stage at The Opryhouse for their 2012 Summer
Musical; Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays
and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. 418
Frederica Street; (270) 683-5333.
SATURDAY, JUNE 2FREE SOAP BOX DERBY The annual contest
for youth racing, using home-built cars. The
winners here go on to compete in the Akron,
Ohio National Championships. This year is the
inaugural race at the new track at Ben Hawes
Park and also features demos and workshops
by the USA Luge Team. Contact John Austin,
(270) 852-3823 for details or visit www.
owensborolions.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, 2020 Frederica St.;
dcplibrary.org.
BURNS PLAYGROUND FUN DAY There will
be a craft/yard sale with several booths set up
including vendors such as Tastefully Simple, Avon,
Tupperware, Thirty-One Gifts, etc. There will be a
car wash, scrimmage games, basket raffle, 50/50
raffle and more.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
SUNDAY, JUNE 3JOHNSON’S DANCE STUDIO RECITAL Summer
recital from Johnson’s Dance in RiverPark Center’s
Cannon Hall; 101 Daviess Street; (270) 687-2787.
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].
june 2012
family fun
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 39www.OwensboroParent.com
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Fulton
Railroaders at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua
Park, 7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
FREE SUMMER MOVIE ON THE RIVER “The
Muppets”, on the BB&T Plaza at RiverPark Center;
8 p.m.; 101 Daviess Street; (270) 687-2787 or
www.riverparkcenter.org.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
MONDAY, JUNE 4FREE SUMMER READING KICK OFF WEEK All
day, every day through Friday, June 8; Monday,
June 4--Amazing monster bookmark drop.
Tuesday, June 5 All day--Big Foot Scavenger
Hunt. Wednesday, June 6, 2– 3 p.m.-- Halloween
in June Costume Contest. Come dressed in
a wild and creative costume…best dressed
wins! Thursday, June 7, 10 – 11:30 a.m.-- Meet
Skippyjon Jones. Instead of our regular storytime,
the library will have a very special visitor; Judith
Schachner’s famous character, Skippyjon Jones;
Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
dcplibrary.org.
THEATRE WORKSHOP DRAMA CAMP The
weeklong drama camp include lessons on
teamwork, theatre games, stage make-up, lighting
and sound, costumes, confidence building,
and always include our fantastic scavenger
hunts! Each week will end with an evening
performance in our brand new outdoor theatre!
June 4 – 8; 11 a.m. – 12 noon; Grades K – 2; $50;
theatreworkship.org or (270) 683-5333.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
TUESDAY, JUNE 5FREE SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM at
The Museum of Science and History All children
18 and under are welcome to partake of a lunch
at no additional charge, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.,
Tues. – Fri.; food must be eaten on site; 122 East
2nd St.; owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-
2732.
FUN IN THE SUN Come help us celebrate the
kickoff for the summer feeding program! Create
amazing artwork using the power of the sun
and lean sun safety. Owensboro Dermatology
will be present to sun safety tips and provide
sunscreen samples. We will also be giving out
summer-themed door prizes; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN The Owensboro Museum
of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
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.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6THE ABCS OF BEES The Owensboro Museum
of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
THURSDAY, JUNE 7FREE 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 OILERS HOME GAME Hoptown
Hoppers at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua Park,
7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
FRIDAY, JUNE 8FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Discfunktn’l Groove (Disco
Band) on the BB&T Plaza; Darby Haas in the
Courtyard; Street Fair: Disco Party; 6 - 10 p.m.;
(270) 687-2787 or fridayafter5.com.
40 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.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 - 10 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Marion
Bobcats at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua Park,
7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
SATURDAY, JUNE 9HISTORYFEST 2012 The second annual
HistoryFest takes place at Yellow Creek Park.
Featured will be WWII re-enactments at the park,
as well as showcasing history from the 1600’s
through WWII in the Pioneer Village. For more
information, contact Jim Goodall at (270) 275-
4487.
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.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event description on
Friday, June 1.
SUNDAY, JUNE 10OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Tradewater
Pirates at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua Park,
7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC See event Description on
Friday, June 1.
MONDAY, JUNE 11MYSTERY AT BIOTECH SUMMER CAMP The
Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens and the
Owensboro Museum of Science and History
wants you to Come solve the mystery! The
Professor is missing and the lab techs are sick.
The activities for the week, can the students help
find Professor Nico Tiana (tobacco scientific
name) determine what is making the lab
techs sick while also having fun and learning
about basic botany and biotechnology? 9 a.m.
– 12 noon; For ages 9 – 12; Cost $1; Call for
information and reservations WKBG (270) 852-
8925 or OMSH (270) 687-2732.
FREE STORYTIME WEE Read for ages 2 and
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 –
10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020
Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
TUESDAY, JUNE 12GREEN SMOOTHIES The Owensboro Museum
of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
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.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Fulton
Railroaders at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua
Park, 7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13FREE BALONEY…OR NOT??? Meet legendary
explorer Sir Richard Ripoff who has travelled the
world in a quest for strange and unique objects.
Sir Ripoff will narrate his journeys and display
some oddities from his vast collection. This
program will be weird…recommended for ages 6
and up; 2 - 3 p.m. & 3 – 4 p.m.; Daviess County
Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
THURSDAY, JUNE 14ART HEROES: BAT FLIERS The Owensboro
Museum of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122
East 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.com or (270)
687-2732.
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.
family fun
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 41www.OwensboroParent.com
42 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 43www.OwensboroParent.com
FREE COMIC BOOK WORKSHOP WITH TED NATHANSON Multiple sessions for ages 6-8 and
9 & up. Registration is required. Times to be
announced. For further info, visit www.dcplibrary.
org or call (270) 684-0211 ext. 5.
INTERNATIONAL MYSTERY WRITERS’ FESTIVAL The 4th Annual International Mystery Writers’
Festival returns in 2012 to RiverPark Center.
Original mystery plays performed in Cannon
Hall and the Jody Berry Cabaret Theatre. Check
the RiverPark website for schedules; 101 Daviess
Street; (270)687-2787.
FRIDAY, JUNE 15JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH on stage at
Trinity Center, Theatre Workshop of Owensboro;
Sponsored by Reid’s Orchard; June 15 – 24;
theatreworkshop.org or (270) 683-5333.
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Mudd River Union
(Country) on the BB&T Plaza; Barbara Santora
in the Courtyard; Street Fair: Bourbon Festival &
Colgate Country Showdown; 6 - 10 p.m.; (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 - 10 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
INTERNATIONAL MYSTERY WRITERS’ FESTIVAL See event description on Wednesday, June 13.
SATURDAY, JUNE 16FREE 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.
NHRA SUMMIT SERIES DRAG RACING Super
Pro, Powder Puff Street Car Race; 4731
Windy Hollow Road; (270) 836-2921; www.
windyhollowdragway.com.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
INTERNATIONAL MYSTERY WRITERS’ FESTIVAL
See event description on Wednesday, June 13.
SUNDAY, JUNE 17 FATHER’S DAY
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
INTERNATIONAL MYSTERY WRITERS’ FESTIVAL
See event description on Wednesday, June 13.
MONDAY, JUNE 18Theatre Workshop Drama Camp The weeklong
drama camp include lessons on teamwork,
theatre games, stage make-up, lighting and
sound, costumes, confidence building, and
always include our fantastic scavenger hunts!
Each week will end with an evening performance
in our brand new outdoor theatre! June 18
– 22; 11 a.m. – 12 noon; Grades K – 2; $50;
theatreworkship.org or (270) 683-5333.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 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.
OWENSBORO OILERS Home Game Hoptown
Hoppers at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua Park,
7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
TUESDAY, JUNE 19KIDS IN THE KITCHEN The Owensboro Museum
of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
FREE LEGO BLOCK PARTY For kids ages 6 and
up; Registration is required; 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.;
family fun
44 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
dcplibrary.org.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT; All must
wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2
are free, unless they are the only child, adults
always free; 5 - 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Marion
Bobcats at Owensboro Oilers, Chautauqua Park,
7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20FREE FANCY NANCY TEA PARTY Come dressed
in your best glitz and glam for a very fancy tea
time; For ages 6 & up; 2 – 3 p.m. & 3 – 4 p.m.;
Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
dcplibrary.org.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Hoptown
Hoppers at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua
Park, 7 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
THURSDAY, JUNE 21PENELOPE THE BAY ZEBU The Owensboro
Museum of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122
East 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.com or (270)
687-2732.
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.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Tradewater
Pirates at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua Park,
7 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
FRIDAY, JUNE 22THE CHEMISTRY OF LIGHT The Owensboro
Museum of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122
East 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.com or (270)
687-2732.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES: BALLOONS OVER THE GARDEN This event brings beautiful blooms
plus multiple activities for everyone to enjoy! Hot
air balloons will be at the Garden June 22-24;
Dazzling Daylilies Festival June 25-30; Check
the Western KY Botanical Garden’s website for a
complete schedule; 25 Carter Road; (270) 852-
8925; www.wkbg.org.
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 - 10 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
OWENSBORO QUILT SHOW The Owensboro
Area Quilters Guild brings their Quilt Show to
Brescia University at 717 Frederica Street, opening
at 9:30 a.m. on Friday and closing at 5 p.m. on
Saturday.
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Caribou (Rock & Roll
Oldies Dance Band) on the BB&T Plaza; Rachel
Timberlake in the Courtyard; Gospel on the River
in Cannon Hall with Childress Family, Living By
Faith, and Deena Ashley. Street Fair: Big Red Bash,
DCHS 1971, WKU-O reunion; 6 - 10 p.m.; (270)
687-2787 or fridayafter5.com.
SATURDAY, JUNE 23FREE 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.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Fulton
Railroaders at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua
Park, 7 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
OWENSBORO QUILT SHOW See event
description on Friday, June 22.
SUNDAY, JUNE 24JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH See event
description on June 15.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
MONDAY, JUNE 25FREE 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.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
TUESDAY, JUNE 26AGRICULTURE ADVENTURES The Owensboro
Museum of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122
East 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.com or (270)
687-2732.
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.
WALK & TALK & LUNCH IN THE GARDEN “DAYLILIES & THEIR PALS” Enjoy lunch and a
walk through the Western KY Botanical Garden;
25 Carter Road; 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.; (270) 852-
8925 or www.wkbg.org.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
family fun
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 45www.OwensboroParent.com
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27TINY TRAINS The Owensboro Museum of
Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
FREE DRAGONS, DRAGONS, DRAGONS Learn
the fiery history of the dragon while making a
cool dragon craft to take on parade; 2 – 3 p.m. &
3 – 4 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020
Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
FITNESS PALOOZA A day of fitness and the great
outdoors at the Western Kentucky Botanical
Gardens; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Check the Western
KY Botanical Garden’s website for a complete
schedule; 25 Carter Road; (270) 852-8925; www.
wkbg.org.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
THURSDAY, JUNE 28ROMP: BLUEGRASS ROOTS & BRANCHES
FESTIVAL The 9th Annual River of Music
Party brings three days of bluegrass music!
Thursday will bring jamming and storytelling
at the Museum. Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights bring concerts to Yellow Creek Park.
This year’s lineup includes headliner Vince Gill,
Old Crow Medicine Show, Carolina Chocolate
Drops, Punch Brothers featuring Christ Thile
and many more! For more information about
the festival, visit the Museum’s website at www.
bluegrassmuseum.org, or by phone at (270)
926-7891.
ART HEROES: FINGER PAINT The Owensboro
Museum of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122
East 2nd St.; owensboromuseum.com or (270)
687-2732.
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.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
FRIDAY, JUNE 29MINI HERB GARDENS The Owensboro Museum
of Science and History; 11 a.m.; 122 East 2nd St.;
owensboromuseum.com or (270) 687-2732.
FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 The Jimmy Church Band (Motown Sound & Dance Band) on the BB&T Plaza; Jeff Wildman Hardesty in the Courtyard. Street Fair: Sunset Celebration; 6 - 10 p.m.; (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 - 10 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Marion
Bobcats at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua
Park, 7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
ROMP: BLUEGRASS ROOTS & BRANCHES
Festival See event description on Thursday, June
28.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
SATURDAY, JUNE 30FREE 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.
NHRA SUMMIT SERIES DRAG RACING 1st
Annual JR Dragster Freedom Race; 4731
Windy Hollow Road; (270) 836-2921; www.
windyhollowdragway.com.
46 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Hoptown
Hoppers at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua
Park, 7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
ROMP: BLUEGRASS ROOTS & BRANCHES
FESTIVAL See event description on June 28.
THE DAZZLING DAYLILIES FESTIVAL See event
description on Friday, June 22.
SUNDAY, JULY 1FREE SUMMER MOVIES ON THE RIVER “Happy
Feet 2”, on the BB&T Plaza at RiverPark Center; 8
p.m.; 101 Daviess Street; (270) 687-2787 or www.
riverparkcenter.org.
MONDAY, JULY 2FREE 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, JULY 3U-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.
FAMILY FREEDOM FIREWORKS FESTIVAL
Fireworks and family fun at Panther Creek Park.
Vendors open at 5 p.m., fireworks begin at 9:15
p.m.; 5160 Wayne Bridge Road; (270) 685-6142
or www.daviesscountyparks.com.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Marion
Bobcats at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua
Park, 7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 4INDEPENDENCE DAY!
FREE A CELEBRATION OF THE AMERICAN
SPIRIT View the fireworks from English Park
on the Ohio River as the City of Owensboro
celebrates the Fourth of July with music from
the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra and
concludes with fireworks shot off from a barge
in the Ohio River. Gates open at 6 p.m., followed
by speeches, Color Guard, and fireworks
accompanied by patriotic music at 9 p.m.; (270)
687-8700 or www.owensboroparks.org.
OWENSBORO OILERS HOME GAME Tradewater
Pirates at Owensboro Oilers at Chautauqua Park,
7:05 p.m.; www.owensborooilers.com.
THURSDAY, JULY 5FREE 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, JULY 6FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Old School (Rock/R&B/
Motown Dance Band) on the BB&T Plaza; Aly’an
in the Courtyard. Street Fair: Couples Night;
6 - 10 p.m.; (270) 687-2787 or www.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 - 10 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 7FREE 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.
family fun
June 2012 . OWENSBORO PARENT 47www.OwensboroParent.com
48 OWENSBORO PARENT . June 2012 www.OwensboroParent.com