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PA R E N T july/august/september 2011
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his honor
THE DAD A look at Judge Steve Wilson and family pages 3
YUMMY MOMMY pages 8-9
WIN! One of Four Fall Getaways! page 23
Back to SCHOOL pages 8
The Skinny: Autism
Spectrum Disorders 101
pages 15
from the editor There is nowhere I’d rather be than Kentucky in the summertime, sitting on a front porch, smelling the wonderful aroma of fresh cut grass and listening to the sound of children playing tag and chasing lightning bugs. Our family loves to gather together for a meal and I have found the picnic ideas in this issue (page 5) to be very useful for our family’s eating fests! I am planning to check out the watermelon recipes (page 6) when all the roadside stands have them stacked and ready for purchase. Be sure to refer to the two great articles in this issue of Bowling Green Parent about good ways to get your children involved in activities around our community. WKU photographer Clinton Lewis has written an article (page 4) about Boy Scouts that will have you, boy in hand, at the next meeting. Read about another group, KidsStuffAroundTown, and how they have setup the 10 hOURs Challenge with community volunteer opportunities for kids (page 11). And, as the summer erodes into the lazy days of late July, the inevitable happens. It will be time to think about school again. I hear your kids groaning. We have a schedule of the back-to-school events as they were available at press time. Even if you don’t want to think about it, our ACT preparation article (page 9) will be coming in handy for kids from grades 7-12. We also have lots of children’s health tips! Mom, we didn’t forget you, either! There are beauty tips (pages 16-17) and a great article about a refreshing way to get some exercise in the swimming pool (page 10). We hope that this issue will bring you as much pleasure as it has given us creating it. Remember, we are only as far away as your email!
in this issue
jul/aug/sept 2011
events
5 National Picnic Month 11 10 hOURS Challenge 12-13 Event Calendar 22 Fall Break Ideas 24 SOKY Fair 2011 arts 6 Wonderful Watermelon Pack a Perfect Picnic
Kids help the Community by Volunteering Kid, Teen & Family Events
Fall Color and Family Fun!
The schedule, the fun!
Fun Treats You Can Make!
health
A COOL Workout 10 Kid’s 14 S.P.A. 19 Breastfeeding Matters 20 Head Lice Awareness Eye Health 21 IsChildren’s 25 Your Child Sleep Deprived Water Aerobics
Cara Cossey Pitchford, Editor
Structured Physical Activity
Why it is good for you and your baby
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Treatment and Prevention
PA R E N T
Bowling Green Parent is a quarterly publication for Bowling Green / Warren County and surrounding areas. The publication is free and can be obtained at 200 local family friendly businesses in five counties and 10,000 copies are produced of each issue. For a list of locations: bgparent.com/distribution.html To inquire about advertising, contact our office at 270-846-1122 or email info@bgparent.com.
Signs Your Child Needs More Rest
education
9 ACT/SAT Preparation 18 Downloading Digital Books 23 Top Apps Be ready for the big test
Carolyn Cossey Pitchford, Editor-in-Chief Katie Frassinelli, Publisher and Creative Director Michelle Carver, Advertising Sales
Get them Free from the Library
All material and information, which appears in Bowling Green Parent Magazine, is presented for informational purposes only. Always consult your physician or child care expert if you have any questions concerning you or your Family’s well being. Bowling Green Parent Magazine presents all data as is, without any warranty of any kind, express or implied, and is not liable for its accuracy, for mistakes, errors, or omissions of any kind, nor for any loss or damage caused by a user’s reliance on information obtained in the magazine. Bowling Green Parent Magazine takes no responsibility as to the accuracy of statements in any of our articles or segments. We rely on independent writers and reader responses to present us with ideas and informational material.
BECOME A FAN...Weekly trivia contest with prizes, fun ideas and more!
Favorites for Every Age
features
4 Boy Scouts 26 United Way
Horizons Unlimited
Helping our community
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Help Kids See a Brighter Future
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HIS HONOR - THE DAD
A Look at Family Man, Judge Steve Wilson When Judge Steve Wilson steps out of the courtroom and removes the black robe he wears for the 8th Judicial Circuit Court in Warren County, he is a Bowling Green family man. Steve was raised right here in Warren County, attended Bowling Green High School and Western Kentucky University, and never wandered too far from home until he left for law school at Chase College of Law in Northern Kentucky. Prior to taking the bench, he served as the Warren County Commonwealth Attorney for 13 years. Steve and his wife Jane have four daughters, Ashlee, Ann Taylor, Grace, and Madeline who are all carrying on the family tradition of Bowling Green pride. “Daddy bleeds purple,” sixth grade St. Joseph student Madeline reported. “We never forget he went to Bowling Green High,” said eighth grader Grace. “That’s right, and you will too!” her father teased back at her. When the Wilson’s oldest daughters, Ashlee and Ann Taylor, had higher education decisions to make, the choice was easy. It was their hometown university and Dad’s alma mater, WKU. Daughter Ashlee has graduated with a degree in Theater and Performing Arts Administration and lives in New York where she is working for a theatrical production company. Ann Taylor will graduate in December with
degrees in psychology and communications and plans to attend graduate school. “When I was making my higher education decision, I always knew Western Kentucky University was where I would go to college. There is no finer school,” Steve said with obvious pride in his voice for Bowling Green’s university. The Wilson family has a strong presence at church, but they don’t just attend Holy Spirit on Sunday and forget it the rest of the week. The lessons taught in the sermons are all part of their family lifestyle and social circle. All of the children attend St. Joseph School until they are ready to move on to higher level education. Wife Jane is the chair of the church council. Steve sings in the men’s choir. Grace and Madeleine are attending camp this summer at Gasper River and later will help at Holy Spirit’s Vacation Bible School. The Wilson’s two little girls, Madeline and Grace, are busy all the time. “I like to play golf with Daddy. And, both of us like to swim. Our swim team will be going on all summer,” Madeline said excitedly. “I like volleyball and basketball, too.” Grace interjected. “And, I’ve always wanted to be in a play at the Capitol Arts. I think that would be so cool. I love the concerts downtown in the parks in the summer. They are the BEST! Madeline and I love to go to them, hang out with our friends, and hear the music. It was so great to
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hear Daddy sing with Skip Bond. The music from all the groups that perform in Fountain and Circus Square Parks is amazing!” “Look at all the opportunities Bowling Green has to offer.” Steve noted. “We have Concerts in the Park, our wonderful orchestras, the International Festival, Duncan Hines Festival and the Balloons and Tunes Festival, a great SOKY fair, an aviation park, the Corvette museum, and Lost River Cave. What else could you ask for? You know, I travel some, giving lectures, and I look at other towns. I believe I can objectively say that Bowling Green is the perfect sized town with an abundance of activities for everyone to do, lots of restaurant choices, and the best academic choice. Where else could a person want to live?”
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Boy Scouts - Horizons Unlimited Roll Up Those Sleeves and Get Your Hands Dirty! After a month of preparations, we are going over our final checklist: Backpack? Check. Extra Socks? Check. Sleeping bag? Check. Two liters of water? Check. Headlamp? Check. “Did you guys remember to bring food for dinner tonight?” Uneasy pause. Bags shuffled. Check! I am helping 30 boys prepare for a weekend backpacking trip to Charit Creek Lodge in the Big South Fork National Recreation Area in Tennessee. One of the most fulfilling activities that I get to do as a dad is be a part of this. I am an assistant scoutmaster with Boy Scout Troop 510, where both my boys are members. And I, along with a dozen other leaders and parents, will be splitting up into four groups to make the 3.5-mile hike to the rustic lodge for the night. But getting boys off Xbox and into nature is only one of many benefits of Boy Scouts. We teach essential skills and values that are lost in mainstream society. Sure, we are famous for navigation and first aid, knots and camping; but what we stand behind our basic building block - is the Scout Law. It reads: A Scout is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent. Essentially, we are preparing boys,
ages 11-18, to be self-sufficient citizens of high moral character. That sounds like a tall order, and sometimes it is. But it’s worth it. I earned my Eagle Scout just days before my 18th birthday with some pushing and persuasion from my mom. I resisted it then, but am absolutely thankful now. Looking back over 15 years later, I realize how many doors that one accomplishment opened. And I have the opportunity to be a positive influence not only to my sons, but the other 40 boys in our troop. It has been amazing to watch our group grow from nervous 11-year-olds, to capable teenage leaders - both in the woods and in their social circles. By the time the boys are 14 or 15, they also become the teachers. Upon reaching First Class rank, they should have the basics mastered and they begin helping the younger scouts learn the ropes. This is essential in the boy-led-troop model we follow. But, back to the Twin Arches trailhead… my group of six boys and one parent is ready to set off. We do one final strap and buckle check on the boys’ backpacks and shoes, and take the first step on the trail eagerly anticipating the many arches, overlooks and natural wonders we will encounter along the way.
Trip info: everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=1108172 For more info about becoming a Boy Scout, check out the local council website www.shawneetrails.org Clinton Lewis is the University Staff Photographer at WKU and a very active husband and father of three teenagers. In addition to being a leader with the scout troop, he is a fanatical hiker, rock climber, kayaker and Hilltopper fan.
The Great Outdoors Let’s give back to our children and ourselves what we don’t even realize we’ve lost and reconnect with the GREAT outdoors! Are you ready for a fun adventure? A great place to start is by celebrating an all American tradition with family and friends at the Great American Campout at Lost River Cave and Valley on August 27. Trade screen time for green time, get in touch with your wild side by spending a night under the stars. Studies have shown that encouraging outdoor time and exploration for children generates an appreciation and respect for the wonders of nature, an attitude that they will carry throughout adulthood. Families that share the gift of nature through camping will form priceless memories and togetherness. A night under the stars will allow children to understand and experience why it’s called the GREAT outdoors. Experience fun environmentally-friendly, simple and effective camping techniques from proper campfire management, open-fire cooking and crafts that utilize natural elements and recreate man’s historic use of nature. Feel like a kid again as you enjoy sharing camp fire stories, playing flashlight games and gathering together with other area campers at the ice cream social. Join your community and create lasting memories connecting with family and friends in the GREAT outdoors at this year’s Great American Campout at Lost River Cave. Admission is $15 per family. Pre-register your camp site by calling 270.393.0077 or download your pre-registration online at www.lostrivercave.com/events.
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Pack a Perfect Picnic July is National Picnic Month, and whether you are heading out to Concerts in the Park, a local festival, public park or backyard BBQ, here are some tips to make your picnic perfect. Clean that Cooler Perhaps your cooler has been in the garage or attic for the off-season, or even if you used it last week - don’t forget to give the inside a good sudsing so there’s no worry about contaminating your food and beverages. If you are in the market for a new cooler, some features to consider are wheels and a sturdy handle, side handles and a drain at the bottom. Pre-Chill Your Food and Drinks Rather than throw your cans of soda into the cooler straight from the grocery, the night before your picnic, place them in the refrigerator so they are good and cold going in. Do the same thing with any fresh melon, fruits and vegetables. Consider Accessibility and Ice When packing your items into the cooler, consider which items will need to be accessed more frequently and make sure they are on the top. Keep like items together. Items that will be used first should be packed last. Reusable ice packs work best at keeping your items dry, but ice cubes can also get down in the crevices to equally chill the contents. When using cubes, it is easier to add the ice after the food and drinks. You may also want to put some ice cubes in large ziplock bags for drinks. Also consider that the larger the block of ice, the longer it retains coldness. Consider filling a plastic rectangular container and freezing it, creating one large piece of ice.
SWEET PICNIC SPOTS
Never put your cooler in a freezer. Freezers can cause your cooler to crack. Keep it in the Shade If possible, when you reach your picnic spot, keep the cooler in the shade, and keep it closed when not in use. You should also keep the drain plug open if possible to prevent mold growth and keep water from building up. Coolers Can Keep Food Warm Did you know coolers can also be used to keep food warm? If your food is hot when going in, it will radiate heat and stay warm inside. You can also pop a brick in your oven to heat it up, then wrap it in a towel and put it in your cooler. Remember that picnics, if not properly planned, can yield food-borne illnesses. For a complete list of ways to keep your food safe, we recommend: ces.ncsu.edu/depts/foodsci/ext/pubs/picnic.html What Else to Bring? •Picnic table / chairs / table cloth / blanket •Sunshade / umbrella / sunscreen / hats •Insect repellent / first-aid kit •Bottle opener / can opener •Trash bags / wipes / hand sanitizer •Napkins / paper towels / plates / cultery / cups •Salt / pepper / mustard / ketchup / sauces •Sports equipment / picnic games / bikes / frisbee •Change of clothes and shoes •Water / soft drinks / ice bucket Checkout page 6 for some great recipes using watermelon - a tasty treat for your summer picnic!
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Mammoth Cave National Park Listed as one of six spectacular spots in the nation by Country Living magazine, it’s only natural that we also select our backyard treasure as a perfect picnic spot. Melissa McGuire, a Horse Cave native and mom of two, says her favorite spot at Mammoth Cave is Sloan’s Pond, located between the Welcome Center and Park City. “There is a great trail to walk but the best part is that there are tons of turtles and frogs and they have two decks that you can sit out on. The boys love it there - we can spend hours just watching turtles and frogs.” Basil Griffin Park We love Basil Griffin Park. It’s nice to sit by the water and watch the ducks, whether we’re on a blanket on the ground or sitting at one of the nice picnic tables. We can even grill out with one of the charcoal grills they have there. If we want more privacy, we picnic in the grove of trees near the ampitheater. Then after our picnic, there is so much to do at the park and we always have a great time! - Brenda Riney
Maggie Hannah, Grace and Abbie, daughters of Mandy and Jeremy Rigsby of Bowling Green enjoy the nice weather and pretty flowers at Fountain Square Park. At left: Chance Akin, son of Erica Bunch of Scottsville.
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wonderful
WATERMELON
One of many enjoyable things about summer is WATERMELON! At our house you know it is summer by the watermelon in the fridge and the sticky spots of melon juice on our floors. (Just to clarify, our floors don’t get sticky in the summer only, but all year round.) We love watermelon. It’s a summer staple at the Brown house. So what can you do with a watermelon? If you asked my very 2-year-old son I’m sure he would suggest throwing it, tackling it, climbing it, then jumping off of it. Luckily for you, I have a few more resourceful ideas up my “Mommy sleeve.” I’ve found in my many years of entertaining that it isn’t what you serve but HOW you serve it. That’s where the art of having fun presenting your food comes into play. Check out these fun ideas! 1. Watermelon Cupcakes - I’m continuously amazed at all the creative ways people dress up cupcakes. These darling watermelon cupcakes are perfect for summer. To make the watermelon cupcake add approx. 8 10 drops of red food coloring to your favorite white cupcake batter, then add 1/4 cup miniature chocolate chips. Bake as directed then frost with green frosting. Festive, creative and cute! 2. Watermelon Pops - Cool summer treat, recipe makes about 16 pops. Ingredients: 3 T. mini chocolate chips Ice cubes ½ pkg. (4oz) cream-cheese softened 1-1/3 c. sugar, divided 1 pkg. (3oz) lime flavor gelatin 2 c. boiling water, divided 1 ½ c. thawed Cool Whip 1 c. cold water, divided 1 pkg (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
Directions: • Mix 1/3 c. sugar and lime gelatin in bowl. Add 1 c. boiling water and stir until dissolved. Add enough ice to a ½ cup of water to measure ¾ cup of ice cold water. Add lime gelatin and stir until ice is melted. Refrigerate 25 minutes. • Repeat steps for the strawberry gelatin EXCEPT do not refrigerate. Pour small amount into Dixie cups. After 10 min. of sitting, stir in chocolate chips for the watermelon seeds then refrigerate. • Take 2/3 c. sugar, softened cream cheese and Cool Whip. Mix and spread over chilled strawberry gelatin. • Pour lime gelatin over cream cheese mixture, insert wooden pop stick and freeze for 3 hours. Remove pops from Dixie cups right before serving and ENJOY! 6. My take on Paula Dean’s Watermelon Cooler – Being from the South I am strangely drawn to anything Paula Dean makes. I’m not sure if it’s the butter or the accent but she’s amazing. I wanted to share one of her ideas that’s almost too beautiful to consume. Feel free to get a little rowdy and make this an adult beverage if you choose. Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds (4 cups) sliced seedless cut watermelon 1 cup lemon sorbet or ice-cream 1 lemon zest Watermelon wedges, mint garnish 1 ½ cups cold water Directions: • Mix watermelon, sorbet and lemon together in food processor or blender until very smooth consistency. • Stir in 1 ½ c. cold water, let sit in the refrigerator until chilled. Serve over ice and add melon and mint
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for garnish. It’s cool and refreshing for a hot summer. 8. Watermelon Salsa – This is another one of those that you will be pleasantly surprised by. Ingredients: 3 c. watermelon finely diced 2 T. fresh cilantro chopped ½ c. green bell pepper finely diced 2 T. lime juice 3 T. green onions chopped ½ t. garlic salt 2 T. jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and finely diced Directions: • Mix together watermelon, green pepper, lime juice, cilantro, green onions, jalapeno. Drain ingredients and add garlic. I know… just try it! Serve in bowl and enjoy! All of these ideas are great to help celebrate the start of summer. If you’re looking for more ways to celebrate summer or just looking for excuses to celebrate any day, visit me at SWANKY SOIREES on Facebook. I hope I’ve shared some exciting ideas to jump start your summer.
About the Author, Marissa Brown When accepting the position of Domestic Affairs and Management (stay at home mother) for my family, I never anticipated the amount of coffee and sanitizing wipes the job would require. What blessings we’ve been given though. As a loving wife and mother of two toddlers 14 mos. apart, it takes creativity, an abundance of patience and a whole lot of Jesus to guide everyday into a loving and learning experience. My creativity is an outlet for my busy life. That is where SWANKY SOIREES was born. We help you celebrate all life has to delight in; from baby or wedding showers, birthday parties to any other reason you may find to celebrate. Check us out on Facebook!
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back to SCHOOL
School Open Houses Warren County Schools
Stuff the Bus!
Alvaton Elementary Open House August 4, 6:30 pm
Each summer, local radio personality Tony Rose of SAM 100.7 literally lives on a school bus in sweltering heat, collecting school supplies for children of Southern Kentucky. This year will be Tony’s sixth year for the campaign, scheduled to kick off July 21 in the Bluegrass Cellular parking lot on Campbell Lane. Last year’s donations filled not one, but two school busses, and the six tons of collected supplies go to the Family Resource Centers in area school districts for distribution to children in need. The National Corvette Museum has also gotten on board with the campaign, offering buy one, get one free admission with a school supply donation July 10-24. The school supplies are then caravanned in Corvettes to help stuff the bus. So when you are out buying your child’s school supplies, why not pick up a few extras for a child in need!
Briarwood Elementary Open House Sun., Aug. 7, 2–4pm. Kindergarten open house Fri., Aug. 5, Boys: 4:30-5pm, Girls: 5:15-5:45pm. Bristow Elementary Back to School Open House Aug. 4, 5:30pm
Products We Love
Drakes Creek Open House Thurs., Aug. 4, 5-7pm Greenwood High Gator Camp Day (Freshmen only) Aug. 3, 8am-1pm Moss Middle Open House Thurs., Aug. 4, 5:30-6:30pm Natcher Elementary Open House Sun., Aug. 7 Oakland Elementary Open House Aug. 4, 6-7pm With a new school year fast approaching, kids are excited to go back-toschool shopping for the hottest new accessories and gear. Now more than ever, green is in and children are realizing that they, too, can help out the environment. We love the new Enviro Products®’ Lunchopolis which reduces the need for sandwich bags, tinfoil, juice boxes and other unnecessary waste. The lunchbox comes with one drinking bottle and four modular containers that are all reusable, helping the environment and saving you money on plastic and paper products. Each of the containers is dishwasher and microwave safe, and are durable preventing crushed food. Lunchopolis’ are available at the Nutrition Center located on the 31W Bypass. You can also WIN this Lunchopolis! To enter, simply post a photo of your child eating their favorite lunchtime snack and a winner will be randomly selected on July 30.
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Cumberland Trace Elementary Back to School NightThurs., Aug. 4, 6pm
Plano Elementary Open House Sun., Aug. 7, 2-4pm. Kindergarten orientation program Sat., Aug. 6. Richardsville Elementary Open House Aug. 2, 5-7pm Richpond Elementary Open House Sun., Aug. 7, 2-4 pm South Warren Middle School 7th grade (only) Orientation, Thurs., Aug. 4, 6pm Warren Central Freshman Day Wed., Aug. 3, 11am4pm. Students only 11-3, parents invited to join 3-4pm Bowling Green Schools BGHS Freshman Orientation, Mon., Aug. 1, 9am-12pm, Open House Aug. 2, 3-5pm Bowling Green Jr. High Jumpstart for incoming 6th graders July 26 & 27, 8-11:30am. Breakfast & lunch served. Bus transportation to and from nearest elementary schools provided. Open House, Aug. 1, 4-6pm Dishman-McGinnis Jump Start to Kindergarten, Fri., Jul. 22, 9-11:30am. Ice Cream Social Sun., Jul. 31, 2-4pm Parker-Bennett-Curry Readifest Jul. 26, 4 -6 p.m Potter Gray Back to School Bash, Mon., Aug. 1, 6-8pm T. C. Cherry Back to School Bash, Sun., Jul. 31, 2–4pm W. R. McNeill Open House - Aug. 2, 5:30-6:30pm First day for students, Thursday, August 4 Private Schools Anchored Christian Academy New Family Orientation, Aug. 9, 7pm. Back to School Orientation Aug. 15, 911am & 7-8:30pm. First day of school Aug 16. Back to School BBQ Aug. 20, 4pm Foundation Christian Academy “Meet & Greet” Tues., Aug. 2, 6:30pm. First day of school Aug. 9 St. Joseph School first day of school Aug. 4
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Preparing for the ACT TEST I suspect that you, like many parents, wonder about the purpose of the tests your children undergo during the school year. Here in Kentucky, students have to take Kentucky Core Content Tests and different forms of a standardized tests created by the ACT testing company in some grades. The state assesses public school 8th graders using the EXPLORE test, 10th graders with the PLAN test and 11th graders through the ACT. These tests are given to help parents and their children evaluate their educational needs at an early age so that the student can take the classes they need in high school to score well on the ACT. The ACT composite along with high school grades is a predictor of how well a student is prepared for college. The ACT math test is a multiple choice, timed test with 60 questions to be completed in 60
minutes. The ACT exam is curriculum based which means students are tested on the material they should have learned in school. ACT has established benchmark scores for the subject areas which indicate a 75% chance of getting a C or higher and a 50% chance of getting a B or higher in first year college courses. The benchmark score for math is a 22. In 2010, Kentucky’s average ACT score in math was 19.1. Only 28% scored at or above benchmark compared to 43% nationally. For colleges that require math placement exams upon entrance, the 72% of students that scored less than 22 on the math portion of the ACT are likely to be placed in a remedial math course during their first year. One way to improve ACT scores is to take practice exams. According to the ACT.org website, 55% of students who take the ACT more than once increase their composite score. But more important than just taking the tests, is to have an analysis of what the student is answering incorrectly and learning how to do a better job with their test taking. There are businesses that will analyze the missed questions and categorize them into their six content areas, prescribe materials targeting those areas. In Bowling Green, Mathnasium is one of two companies that offers ACT practice examinations with analysis of the results. If you prefer a parent-child one-on-one approach to practicing for this test, South Warren High School Guidance Counselor Angie Gage recommends The Real ACT Prep Guide by the makers of the ACT. Angie says, “Not only is it affordable at $20, but it is
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WIN!
summer math skills sharpener
Prevent the dreaded “summer slide” with help from Summer Skills: results oriented review books to maintain and strengthen children’s academic skills over summer break. This series is a line of effective summer review books which reinforce the skills children learned the previous school year and are available for math, language arts, Spanish, French and keyboardng. If you have a child that just completed or is entering 3rd grade, post a comment on our Facebook Fan page by July 31 to be eligible to win a copy of the 3rd Grade Math Review book! Learn more about this product at www.summerskills.com. the only resource with real ACT test questions. And, there are three more ACT tests available on the ACT. org website, free. The book comes with explanations for all right and wrong answer choices, an in-depth look at the optional writing test, and test-taking strategies.”
Richard Hunt is the owner of Mathnasium of Bowling Green and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in chemistry and a minor in math from WKU. He has additional graduate hours in math and is a WKU math instructor teaching developmental algebra. Richard has been in Quality Engineering for close to 10 years with multiple certifications utilizing advanced probability and statistical methods. Richard is a veteran and served as a Military Policeman.
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Water Aerobics
a REFRESHING way to BURN calories A pool might not be the first place you think of going when you’re looking to shape up and slim down— but perhaps it should be. No other workout burns calories, boosts metabolism, and firms every muscle in your body (without putting stress on your joints) better than swimming. And you can do all of that without sweating! Bowling Green has a great year round, in-door facility for swimming, the Warren County Aquatic Facility, located behind the Warren County Board of Education building on Lover’s Lane. Along with offering affordable single or family memberships and swimming lessons, they also have water aerobics classes. Diane Kinser, who has been teaching water aerobics 6 years, offers three different sessions at the aquatics facility each Monday, Tuesday and, Thursday. At 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. the sessions are in shallow water but at 9 a.m. the session is in deep water. “The difference in the sessions,” Diane explained, “is that deep water with near full immersion gives a more intense workout and burns more calories.” The body-shaping benefits of exercising in the water are the result of a perfect storm of calorie burn
and muscle use. An easy work-out burns around 500 calories an hour, while a vigorous effort can torch almost 700. Water aerobics classes with Diane are $35 per month and do not require a pool membership. There is no commitment required and Diane will give a free class to anyone who would like to check out the class first, to see if they would like it. Swimming can be beneficial for so many different physical problems,” Diane said. “I came to it when I had a back injury. When it helped me, I thought I would share my success with others by teaching water aerobics.” She went on to explain that the buoyancy provided by water is beneficial to pregnant women (who have no other health issues) and people with arthritis. Doctors report that swimming is particularly useful for people who are stressed and suffer from joint problems and exercise-induced asthma. Several of Diane’s swimmers have been hip or knee replacement patients. Swimming is an easy way to become initiated into a regular workout regimen because of the low
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amount of stress it places on your body. Aerobic exercise in the water is low-impact, eliminating the pounding on the bones and joints that occurs in other aerobic exercises like running or rapid walking. It also is an effective exercise to tone muscles. The water affords nearly 12 times as much resistance on muscles as air. The routines that Diane leads her class in are total body workouts that provide both upper and lower body workouts, making it an ideal cross-training tool. For more information about the Warren County Aquatics Facility, membership rates, or swimming lessons visit: www.warrencountygov.com/ departments/Parks-Recreation or call 270. 467-0583. For information about water aerobics, call Diane Kinser 270.792.2219.
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10 hOURs Volunteer Challenge A Challenge for Youth to Complete Service Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.” As a parent, grandparent or educator - you may wonder how you can instill good values into your children like your parents once instilled into you. Wonder no longer because our community now has a program to challenge our children to give back. The 10 hOURs Volunteer Challenge is for youth of all ages in the Bowling Green area to have fun while making a difference in the community this summer. The program encourages youth by demonstrating that even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way. The 10 hOURs Volunteer Challenge is a program started by KidStuffAroundTown.com, a new non-profit organization that encourages, empowers and recognizes kids and you that are making a difference. Founder Jessie Goodrich started the organization after wanting her daughter, Brooklyn, to get involved and give back to the community. “Our community has always offered a number of volunteer opportunities for adults, but when looking for opportunities for children there really wasn’t a resource to find them,” Jessie said.
“Parents want to raise good kids and watch them succeed in life. We lay the foundation of religion, education, and family in our children, but is that enough,” added Jessie. Rabbi Shmuley (Oprah Radio) says it best, “We all want to raise good kids, and part of doing that is giving them real responsibilities, above and beyond doing the dishes,” he says. “When we don’t give kids responsibilities, we pay the price. Kids can become lazy and complacent and too self-focused. Volunteering and giving back prevents that and helps others.” Jessie added that volunteering can open many doors for young people as well as teach them what it means to live life to the fullest. She shared with us the three facets of the program in which you can become involved: • Encourage - Volunteering can open many doors in your child’s life, so encourage them to make a difference by helping others. KidStuffAroundTown.com has made it easy to find young volunteer opportunities around town, just check our Volunteering page. •Empower - If your child has an idea or a creative way to help others, let us know. There are local programs that provide assistants. •Recognize KidStuffAroundTown. com loves to recognize Kids and Youth on our homepage. Parents can email us pictures and a paragraph or two about their child’s recent volunteering works. It is a good idea to keep a
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VOLUNTEER! Below is a list of sample volunteer opportunities through the Volunteer Challenge. Visit kidstuffaroundtown. com for a complete list with details and contact information. Tony Culver, 18 and Angel Food Ministries Brooklyn Goodrich, 8 are Ages 10 and up can volunteering at Christian Care assist serving as greeters, Communities for National Nursing Home Week. runners and deliver food to cars.
Housing Authority of BG Learning Center Ages 13 & up assist children with reading aloud. National Corvette Museum Ages 5 and up can assist in stuffing promotional materials and brochures in bags. New Beginnings Therapeutic Riding Ages 9 and up can assist in keeping the facility clean, and help assist instructors in preparing for class. United Way Day of Caring - July 27 Volunteer projects are available in Allen, Barren, Logan, Simpson and Warren Counties. photo album, scrapbook, or portfolio of your child’s volunteering works, you never know when you may need to show off their good deeds. Bowling Green Parent salutes Jessie’s initiative and encourges you to get your children involved this summer!
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area events & activities FESTIVALS & MAJOR EVENTS Second Saturdays Street Fair, Downtown Fountain Square, 9am- 3pm, children’s activities, sidewalk sales, music. 270-782-0222, downtownbg.org Jul. 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 10 Thunderfest, presented by BG Kiwanis, Jul. 1, 310pm, National Corvette Museum Amphitheater, fireworks after dark, www.bgkiwanis.org/thunderfest Duncan Hines Festival, Jul. 7 Night at the Ballpark; Jul. 8, 5-10pm Duck Derby and Concert at Fountain Square Park; Aug. 12, Art and Baking Contest at the Kentucky Museum Kids Festival 2011, Jul. 11-25, Beech Bend Park, Kent Family Circus, 270-781-7634, beechbend.com SOKY Fair, Jul. 23-30, Lampkin Park Southern KY Fairgrounds, pageants Sunday, nightly entertainment Mon-Sat, 270-842-7980, www.sokyfair.org Spirits in the Cave, benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central KY, Aug. 11 , 6-9pm, Lost River Cave, live music, food & beverage, silent auction, 270-781-1180, bbbsky.com U.S. Bank Balloons, Tunes & BBQ, Sept. 8-11, BG/ WC Regional Airport, free admission, 270-745-7532, balloonstunesbbq.com Hart County Civil War Days, Sept. 9-11, battle reenactments, living history camps, guided tours, ceremonies, games, historical presentations, food, music, booths, period dancing. 270-524-4752 or 5242892, www.visitmunfordville.com. Horse Cave Heritage Festival, Sept. 16-17, over 20 bands from rock & roll to gospel offering free performances on 3 outdoor stages, antique cars & farm machinery, local crafts, ag exhibits, food, arcade, historic walking tours. 270-786-2680 or 524-2892. Southern KY Antique Car Show & Festival, Sept. 17, Franklin Courthouse Square, crafts, music, food and fun, 270-586-7609, www.f-schamber.com Music in the Barn, Sept. 24, 2-5pm, Shaker Museum at South Union, live music, afternoon desserts including fried peach pies, fresh apple cake, apple cider slushes, and homemade Shaker Sweet Potato Pie ice cream from Chaney’s Dairy Barn, relaxed family atmosphere. Reservations: $15/person, $25/couple, $5/children ages 6-12. International Festival, Sept. 24, 9am-7pm, Circus Square Park, $3 admission, 12&U free, 270-9046339, bginternationalfest.com Cub Run Days Sept. 23-24, hot air balloon rides, haunted house, bungee bounce, inflatable jumps, history display, live music, mechanical bull, Car and Tractor Show, gravedigger simulator, monster truck
rides, KSP roll over simulator, corn hole tournament, archery shoot, rock wall climb, wide variety of vendors, and lots of great food. 270-597-7284.
Sept. 12 On the Town, Orchestra Kentucky VIP Series, Van Meter Hall, 7:30pm, 270-846-2426, OrchestraKentucky.com
MUSIC & THE ARTS
Sept. 17, Symphony at the Orchard, Bowling Green Western Symphony performs a FREE concert featuring Disney music (Lion King, Tangled, Beauty & the Beast) at Jackson’s Orchard. Bring a blanket and picnic. 10am. www.thesymphonyatwku.org
Concerts in the Park, Fountain Square Park, 6:30pm, Circus Square Park, 7:30, 270-782-0222, downtownbg.org Jul. 8-The Thornz / Tyrone Dunn Experiment Jul. 15-Jenny Lu & Klassic Krew / Andy & The Rockers Jul. 22-Savage Town / Blue Light Special Jul. 29-Ernie Smalls Blues Band / Easy Street Aug. 5-Poison Karma / Exit 4 Aug. 12-Miss Nomer / Stormy Mondayz Aug. 19-Burly Cruz / Sledgehammer Blues Band Aug. 26-J.D. Shelburne / The Fender Benders Jul. 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Jammin’ On the Porch, Various locations in downtown Horse Cave, 5:30pm. Bring your instrument and join in with other local musicians, free, 270-218-0386. Jul. 30 Kidz Jam Back to School Benefit Concert, Chaney’s Dairy Barn, 5-8pm. Music, game booths, raffles, hayrides, outdoor activities. $10 adults, $5 kids 12 & under, $25 family, kids 2 and under are free. Jul. 30 Country Music Legend Ronnie McDowell Presents: The Elvis Story, Capitol Arts, 3pm & 8pm, 270-782-2787, www.capitolarts.com Aug. 6 Grateful Gathering, celebrating the music of the Grateful Dead, Wha Bah’s Steakhouse, 3-10 pm, family friendly, 270-779-5666, gratefulgathering.com Aug. 12-13 Piano Men, Orchestra Kentucky Retro Series, Van Meter Hall, 8pm, 270-846-2426, OrchestraKentucky.com Aug. 12 Bowling Green Gallery Hop, 5–8pm, galleries, museums and studio centers around town, maps available at Visitors Bureau, Capitol Arts, or any participating location, 270-781-0872, thebowlinggreengalleryhop.com Aug. 13 Bonnieville Battle of the Bands, 1st place prize of $500. Family friendly event, 270-531-3132. Aug. 19-21 International Newgrass Festival, Ballance Farms, 31W in Oakland, 270-784-0757, newgrassfestival.com Aug. 20 Sleeping Beauty Interactive Performance, National Corvette Museum (presented by Dance Arts), $15 participating child age 2-1/2 to 5 and one guardian, $5 observer, 1-4pm. Includes refreshments. 270-467-8846 September 9-30 Juried Art Exhibition with 18401890 Theme, Riverview at Hobson Grove, Tues.-Sat. 10am-4pm, $7 adults, $2.50 children, 270-843-5565
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Sept. 24 Music in the Barn, Shaker Museum at South Union, 2-5pm, $15 pp, $25 per couple, $5 kids 6-12, includes live music & dessert, 800-811-8379, shakermuseum.com SHOPPING Southern KY Farmer’s Market, The Medical Center Campus, Tues. 7am- 12 pm, Sat. 7am–1pm, skyfarmersmarket.com, 270-749-4600 Bowling Green / Warren County Market, 1751 Scottsville Road in front of Hobby Lobby, Tues., Thurs. & Sat. 6am- 1 pm Community Farmer’s Market of Bowling Green, Corner of Nashville Road & Campbell Lane, Tues. 3-7pm, Sat. 8am–1pm Thirty-One Gifts Party & Play, Jul. 29 10am-2pm, Hopscotch’s Playplace. Let your kids play while you browse Thirty-One’s selection of gifts, bags and accessories. Socks required for adults and children. Duck Duck Goose Consignment Event, Aug. 24-Aug. 27, half price sale on Sat. Potter Children’s Home Gym, dkdkgoose.com Sept. 9-11 47th Annual Antique Show & Sale, Knights of Columbus Hall, Fri. 5:30-8:30pm, Sat. 9am-5:30pm, Sun. 11:30am-5pm, $5; 270-782-1479, bgantiqueshow.com Sept. 17, Girl’s Day Out, Sloan Convention Ctr., 10am-4pm, http://girls-day-out.blogspot.com FAMILY FUN Summer Family Farm Tours at Chaney’s, Fri. & Mon. in Jul. $7 includes hayride to the barn (weather permitting), live milking demonstration, visit with a calf, info about cows, dairy and farm life and a scoop of ice cream. Tours 11am & 1pm. Please call ahead for an appointment 270-843-5567 Ice Cream and a Moovie, Chaney’s Dairy Barn. Jul. 8-9 How to Train Your Dragon; Jul. 22-23 Shrek Forever After; Aug. 5-6 Dreamer; Sept. 2-3 Gnomeo & Juliet; Sept. 16-17 Toy Story 3. Free admission. Movie starts at dusk. Please no outside food or drink. chaneysdairybarn.com Hopscotch’s Playplace, Every Friday through the end of August $5 open play admission per child. Socks bowling green
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required for adults and children.
museumday
Kid’s Summer Movies, Great Escape 12, Tues., Wed., Thurs. at 9:30am. Jul. 5-6 Yogi Bear, Jul. 1214 Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Jul. 19-21 Marmaduke, Jul. 26-28 Nanny McPhee Returns, $1.50 per person or $5 for a “season pass”.
Sept. 24, National Parks Free Entrance Day, Mammoth Cave National Park, nps.gov
Jul. 3, 10 (2pm), 5, 7 (7pm) Venus: Our Sister Planet, Hardin Planetarium, physics.wku.edu/ planetarium, 270-745-4044 Jul. 14 Pride and Prejudice, Riverview at Hobson Grove, 1-3pm, $8, 270-843-5565 Jul. 16 Geocaching 101: Hiding a Cache, Lost River Cave & Valley, 2-4pm, 270-393-0077, www. lostrivercave.com Jul. 20 Civil War Soldier’s Life, Riverview at Hobson Grove, 1:30pm, $10, 270-843-5565 Jul. 29 & 30 Civil War Day Camp, Shaker Museum at South Union, 9am-5pm Fri., 9am-4pm Sat. Graduation 4pm Sat. $75 per child. Ages 812. Marching and soldiering, fried chicken dinner, receive a toy musket and canteen. 270-542-4167 or shakmus@logantele.com Aug. 6 Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Compton Orthodontics (Grand Stand), other stands around town, 8am-7pm. Hopscotch’s Placeplace $1 admission ages 6 and under, 9am - 12pm. Free lemonade. Donations accepted for pediatric cancer research. Socks required for adults and children. Aug. 6 Back to School Bash, Free child with paying adult, Ky Down Under, 800-762-2869, kdu.com Aug. 8 A Trip to Frankfort’s Liberty Hall & Orlando Brown House, 9:30am-5pm, admission and traveling costs, 270-843-5565 Aug. 27 Great American Campout/Night Geocaching, Lost River Cave & Valley, 270-3930077, lostrivercave.com Sept. 10, Kids Expo of SOKY, Jackson’s Orchard, 10am-4pm, kidsofsoky.com Sept. 10 Dinosaur World $1 Admission Day for Barren, Allen, Edmonson, Hart, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Warren County Residents, 270-773-4345, www. dinosaurworld.com Sept. 17 Civil War Sesquicentennial Events at various locations - see ad on page 18 Sept. 17 Geocaching 101: Advanced Geocaching, Lost River Cave & Valley, 2-4pm, 270-393-0077, lostrivercave.com Sept. 17-18 Kentucky Down Under $5 Admission Days, Logan, Allen and Monroe County, kdu.com or 270-786-2634. Sept. 24 Smithsonian Museum Day, free admission with printed voucher to participating museums including the National Corvette Museum. Complete list: http://microsite.smithsonianmag.com/
SPORTS Jul. 21 Bike Safety Day, Parker Bennett Community Center, 10am-2pm. Learn about bike safety. Participate in a bike parade, rodeo, giveaways. bgky.org/bgpr Jul. 22-23, 24-25 SKyMAC Vette City Big Bird 2011, Stahl Field, 270-783-4004. skymacrc.com Sept. 10, 12, 17, 19 Live Turf Racing, Kentucky Downs, Franklin, kentuckydowns.com Sept. 24-25 SKyMAC Warbird Alley, Stahl Field, 270-791-5348. skymacrc.com COUNTY FAIRS Allen County- June 26-July 2 Franklin-Simpson- July 18-July 23 Logan- July 18-July 22 Hart- July 4-July 9. Gate admission includes carnival rides, shows, displays, fireworks. 270-524-2892. Barren- July 18-July 23 Edmonson Co- Sept 8-Sept 17 Get the complete SOKY Fair schedule on page 24. KY STATE FAIR The following concerts are free with paid admission to the Kentucky State Fair. All shows begin at 8 p.m. (except August 26) in the original Cardinal Stadium at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Gates open at approximately 6:30 p.m.
Exercise and Nutrition Classes at The Medical Center Health & Wellness Center at Greenwood Mall More information and register at 270-745-0972 Limber for Life (Fridays) 9-10am, $5/class Exercise class for men & women of all ages. Low impact aerobic workout with a focus on flexibility, relaxation and muscular strength. Bring 3-5 lb. hand weights. Preparing and Caring for Baby, Classes at Medical Center Auditorium unless otherwise noted. Info and registration at 270-796-2495 or themedicalcenter.org A New Baby’s Coming Class (Aug. 4, Sept. 29) 6-8pm Breast is Best (Jul. 14, Sept. 1) 6-8pm C-Section Class (Jul. 26, Sept. 6) 6-8pm Fatherhood 101 (Jul. 26, Sept. 6) 6pm, Classroom 2 Grandparents Class (Aug. 9, Sept. 27) 6-8pm Newborn Care & Safety Class (Jul. 14, 28, Aug. 11, 25, Sept. 8, 29) 6-8pm - Greenwood Mall Wellness Ctr. or (Jul. 22, Aug. 26, Sept. 23) 2-4pm - Fairview Community Health Center Annex. Nutrition During Pregnancy (Jul. 12) 6-7pm, Mall Prepared Childbirth Classes Option 1: Six Week Series (Meets every Tues. starting Aug. 23 ) 6pm Option 2: One-Night Refresher (Jul. 12, Aug. 30) 6pm Option 3: One-Day (Jul. 23, Aug. 13, Sept. 17) 9am1pm Ready, Set, Go! (Jul. 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15) 6-8pm Twins or More! (Sept. 21) 6-8pm, Med. Ctr. Conf. Room
Joe Nichols with Phil Vassar, Tues., Aug. 23
Health and Wellness Classes, Greenwood Mall location. More info and register at 270-745-0942 Babysitting Clinic (Jul. 27) 9am-2pm, Prepayment and registration req. Boys and girls age 11-17. Safety, how to handle emergencies, basic tips for caring for children of all ages. $20 includes lunch, materials, and a T-shirt. Food Allergy Support (Jul. 19, Aug. 16, Sept. 20) 67pm NICU Parent Support (Tuesdays) 6:30pm, Conf. Room
The Happy Together Tour with The Turtles featuring Flo and Eddie, Mark Lindsay, The Association, The Grass Roots and The Buckinghams, Wed., Aug. 24
Women In Charge Luncheon Series Noon-1pm, Med. Ctr. Auditorium. $8. Jul. 26, Aug. 23
Ted Nugent, Thurs., Aug. 18 Boyz II Men, Fri., Aug. 19 Candlebox with Cowboy Mouth, Sat., Aug. 20 The Oak Ridge Boys with The Grascals, Sun., Aug. 21 Tenth Avenue North with Francesca Battistelli, Mon., Aug. 22
John Michael Montgomery with special guest Lorrie Morgan, Thur., Aug. 25 Carnival of Madness featuring Theory Of A Deadman, Alter Bridge, Black Stone Cherry, Adelitas Way and Emphatic, Fri., Aug. 26 (Concert starts at 6:30 p.m., Doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Luke Bryan with Candy Coburn, Sat., Aug. 27
Women’s Conference - A Day Just for Women 8am-3pm at Knicely Conference Center. $50 registration includes presentations, health screenings, continental breakfast, lunch and conference materials. Jul. 12, Sept. 13 - Breastfeeding Made Simple, Barren River Health Dept., free, 1-3pm, 270-781-8039 x181
Jul. 8, 1-3pm - KIDS NOW Plus Healthy Baby Workshop. For pregnant women - education and prevention Note: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of services such as alcohol, drug, smoking cessation assisthis information, all information is subject to change. Please call tance. Free gift card to all pregnant women who attend. Butler Co. Health Depart., 270-901-5000 ext. 1114 ahead to verify dates, times and schedules!
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Educational Offerings
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S.P.A. Structured Physical Activity Welcome to Kid’s
Now that summer is here we need Structured Physical Activities for our kids that involve outdoors and fun. The goal is to provide a game-like activity with objectives that keep it interesting but also the recommended amount of physical activity to promote health and fitness benefits. When you talk fitness for children (age 12 and under) what we really want to develop are the neuromuscular connections from the brain to the skeletal muscle extremities. Theses enhanced nerve/muscle fiber connections help kids develop dexterity in fine motor skills like cursive writing and also increased strength and endurance in gross motor skills like when they do house chores and play sports. Today we have technology to lessen the burdens of everyday life to the point that some of our children are not experiencing the fundamental development needed to ensure proper growth and maturity. Structured physical activities at home with everyday, around the house items allow stimulation needed to help develop balance, stability and coordination.
Home SPA: 30-50 min. sessions
lie down on the blanket. The teams must drag the body on the blanket from one end of the yard to the other. Whoever crosses the finish line first, wins. 4. Flag Tag. Put a strip of cloth in each player’s back pocket (flag). Have the players try to grab each other’s flag without having their own flag taken. The player with the most flags wins the game. These 4 simple games add all the components of fitness utilizing every muscle group and targeting the cardiovascular system to burn off extra calories and energy. Structured physical activities can be utilized at home, in the pool, or the park, the main objective is to have fun and ENJOY!
2. BlindFold Walk. Create a path with obstacles from one end of the yard to the other. Line up the contestants and let them have a good look at the path. One at a time, blindfold the children and have them walk the path without looking. Keep each player’s time on the scoreboard.
David Nuckols has made physical fitness and healthy living a lifelong quest. He is the owner of Get Toned in Bowling Green. He holds a M.S. in Exercise Science from WKU and has been certified by the American College of Sports Medicine.
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Ingredients: •2 ice cubes •1/3 c. cottage cheese •2/3 c. frozen strawberries
•1 c. milk •1 tsp. vanilla •1½ tsp. sugar
Directions: 1.Pour all of the ingredients into a blender. 2.Put the lid on the blender and blend for 45 to 60 seconds until smooth. 3.Pour your smoothie into a glass and enjoy.
1. Frisbee Race. Purchase some mini Frisbees (or use basketballs, golf balls) and place them in a pile in the middle of the yard. The first player begins the activity by throwing one Frisbee in one direction as far as possible. On “GO” each of the players race around the thrown Frisbee and the first one back to the original spot wins the honor of throwing the next Frisbee again.
3. Body Drag. Divide the group into two teams. Give each team a blanket. Have one player from each team
Strawberry Smoothie
Serves: 1 Nutritional analysis (per serving): 289 calories 19 g protein 49 g carbohydrate 2 g fat 7 mg cholesterol 3 g fiber 430 mg sodium 369 mg calcium 0.8 mg iron Note: Nutritional analysis may vary depending on ingredient brands used. For more healthy recipes visit kidshealth.org
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Autism Spectrum Disorders 101 As a parent of a child with autism and a pediatrician, I have a special passion for autism/autism spectrum disorders. April was autism awareness month, but now that April has passed, I would like to keep the interest and awareness of autism spectrum disorders alive for the months to come. What is an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of complex neurologically-based developmental disorders that can cause impairments in 3 areas: social interaction, communication and behaviors. ASDs are classified as a “spectrum” disorder because symptoms in a child can range from very mild to severe. The most well known autism spectrum disorder is autistic disorder, or autism. Another well known, milder condition on the ASD spectrum is Asperger Syndrome. ASDs are found in all ethnic and socioeconomic groups and boys are four times more likely to have ASDs than girls. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) currently estimates that an average of 1 in 110 children in the U.S. has an ASD, but recent research suggests that ASDs may be more common than previously thought.
are generally milder than those seen in children with autism, but these children have no current or past history of delayed speech or language development problems. Many children with asperger syndrome are not diagnosed until middle to late childhood because the symptoms are mild and may go unrecognized for some time. The severity of symptoms varies from child to child. Some signs in a child may be: • Problems with social skills, like difficulty interacting with others, difficulty making friends • Difficulties with communication, poor eye contact, difficulty understanding jokes, trouble using facial expressions • Unusual rituals, like getting dressed in a certain order • Repetitive behaviors like hand wringing, finger twisting • Intense interest in objects or activities, like intense interest in maps, weather, sports schedules or scores • Body coordination problems or clumsiness • Exceptionally talented in a particular area, like reading, math, music, etc.
What are the signs of Autism? Autism symptoms begin before age 3, but they can go unrecognized for some time in children with milder symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies from child to child. Some early signs in a child may be:
• No pointing to objects to show interest by 14 months • Avoids eye contact, prefers to be alone/play alone • Delayed speech or language development, like no single words by age 12-15 months, no 2 word phrases by age 2 years, or gives unrelated answers to questions asked • Repeats words or phrases over and over, like words or phrases from a TV show or movie • Gets upset by small changes in environment or activities • Intense interests or behaviors, like repetitively playing with letters, lining up cars • Repetitive behaviors, like hand flapping, rocking body • Extremely sensitive to sound, smell, taste, look or feel
• Ages 6-24 mos: brookespublishing.com/store/ books/wetherby-csbsdp/checklist.htm • Ages 16-30 mos: firstsigns.org/downloads/m-chat.PDF Aspergers Free Screening Tool • Age 4-11 years: autismspectrumdisorderfoundation.org/ aspergersscreeningtools.html Other Resources • Signs of autism videos: autismspeaks.org/video/glossary.php • Child less than 3 years of age in Ky with signs of developmental delay(s) or autism: First Steps Early Intervention Program (state-funded evaluation program, doctor’s order not needed). 1-877-41 STEPS or http://chfs.ky.gov/dph/firststeps.htm • Child age 3 or older with signs of autism or asperger syndrome, contact the school/school district in which you live to request an evaluation. • Autism and Asperger Support Group of Bowling Green (AASBG): for more info, or to receive email meeting announcements, contact Karen Thomas at karenmthomas@bellsouth.net • Persons with Young Children with Disabilities: debbie.lynch@insightbb.com or jbuster@ insightbb.com
• No babbling, fails to respond to their name by 12 mos • Not playing “pretend” games by 18 months
Signs of Autism Free Downloadable Checklists
What do I do next if I suspect my child may have autism? There are a number of free downloadable screening tests that you can complete to determine if developmental concerns are present. While these tests are not meant to diagnose your child, you can bring them to your child’s doctor to see if further evaluation is needed. (at right)
• Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex (CEC) at WKU’s Kelly Autism Program, Early Childhood Center, Communications Disorders Clinic & Family Resource Program. www.wku. edu/chhs/cms/index.php/cec, (270) 745-2784 or 745-4232.
How can I get more information about resources for autism spectrum disorders in Bowling Green? I encourage parents, caregivers, and/or close family members to attend one or both of the autism spectrum disorders support groups in Bowling Green to get more information from other parents who also have children on the spectrum. They can help educate and guide you to resources for your child in the local area.
What are the signs of Asperger Syndrome? Asperger syndrome Dr. Elizabeth Sternberg is a part-time pediatrician at the (AS) presents Graves-Gilbert Clinic. She is married and has a 4 year old with some similar son with autism. She manages her son’s multidisciplinary symptoms of autism, therapies, including an in-home Applied Behavior Analysis like impairment in (ABA) program. She is an active member of the steering social interaction and committee for the Autism and Asperger Support Group of behavior. Symptoms Bowling Green. bowling green
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BOOK review Something Borrowed by Emily Griffin If you enjoy reading books about friends from two different perspectives, I highly recommend you read the two books Emily Giffin wrote about a wedding gone bad. The first is Something Borrowed which has been adapted as a movie. I loved reading this funny book about friendship and couldn’t wait to read the second book, Something Blue which tells the other half of the story. In the first book, Rachel has been best friends with Darcy since they were girls. Darcy is selfish and egocentric and when she becomes engaged, it is to Dex, the guy that Rachel had a crush on in law school. Crazy circumstances arise to throw Rachel and Dex together, only to discover that he too loved her. Darcy and Dex’s wedding plans and the affair with Rachel continue, with the bride becoming the story’s villain. Rachel is the good girl and has to make a choice between her heart and her conscience. Dex is weak and has to nearly lose everything before he can make his choice between what is easy and who he loves. This summer’s movie stars Kate Hudson in the role of Darcy, and Ginnifer Goodwin as Rachel. In a summer full of girl and wedding related movies, I thought it was a fun romp, but not particularly memorable. The best part of the movie was loving to hate Kate Hudson as Darcy. She could really project her inner you know what. My advice? Read both of the books, have a slumber party with your girlfriends and rent the movie!
YUMMY MOMMY sizzling summer HAIR Summer is all about hot temperatures, dry winds and humidity. Those three are enemies to healthy, gorgeous looking hair. Tammy York at Ohana’s shares some tips to tame your hair during the summer months.
summer SKIN
SUITS
* Water is your friend. Staying hydrated is important for healthy hair as well as your overall health, so make sure that you are taking enough water.
Summer can be a time to get your glow on, but it can also wreck havoc on your skin. Dr. John Cowan provided us with some tips to keep your skin young and healthy. 1) Always use sunscreen. There is no such thing as a safe tan and a “base tan” (visiting the tanning bed prior to tanning outside) is not any better for your skin than a sun tan. UV light from both the sun and tanning bed causes aging of your skin to show faster. When possible, avoid the midday sun from 10am-2pm. 2) Moisturize with something your skin agrees with. Dr. Cowan recommends moisturizers without fragrance like Cerave, Cetaphil and Vanicream. 3) Don’t rely on makeup with sunscreen built in. Most makeup only has 5-10 SPF in it and that’s not enough. Apply sunscreen under your makeup and be sure to reapply sunscreen often. Athletes should especialy do this because when you sweat and wipe, you are also wiping off your sunscreen. 4) Be aware of how your medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Acne treatments, like Accutane, make your skin more photosensitive. 5) Skip the chemical peels until after summer. They are great for removing those summer brown spots and help reduce signs of aging - so wait until fall for maximum benefits. Retainoids, like Retin A, are also great for treating brown spots and wrinkles. 6) Exfoliants are not for everyone. While Clarisonics are the hot new thing for skin, Dr. Cowan is not a fan. Some skin types react to the tool with hyperpigmentation, a result of skin trauma caused by the rough motion. It can even cause some skin to look worse
Don’t you hate it when your new swimsuit starts to get chlorine fading, stretching, picked and other imperfections? Here are some tips to help you properly care of your suit, and keep it looking brand-new from day to day!
* And, it is very important to remember to cut or trim your hair regularly. That will keep any damage removed, but more importantly, it will keep your style fresh and your hair beautiful!
For more skin care tips, Dr. Cowan recommends the American Academy of Dermatology website at www.aad.org and the Skin Cancer Foundation website at www.skincancer.org.
ship-shape
1) Never wring out your swimsuit. This can cause it to stretch. 2) Soak your suit for 15 minutes in cold water after wearing it, then wash by hand or on the gentle cycle in your washer. 3) Don’t put your suit in the dryer. Roll it up in a towel to get excess water out, then let it air dry. 4) Before putting away your suit for the season, wash it one last time to remove any chlorine or salt water that might still be in the fibers.
* Both winter and summer weather are enemies to your hair and its health. The worst weather elements can cause your hair to become dry and make the ends split. *To protect your hair, tie a scarf loosely around your head so that air can flow to the scalp, wear a hat, or put a leave-in conditioner with sunscreen in it before you go out. * If your hair is dry and wiry, use a good conditioner at night. When you go to bed rub the conditioner on your hair and put a shower cap on your head while you sleep. * Use shampoos and conditioners that contain moisturizing contents. Jojoba oil is good for dry, split hair. * When selecting your hair care hair products, check the label. Buy items that have protective sunscreen in their contents but don’t use formaldehyde and alcohol because these are drying agents. It is better to use natural products on your hair. * If you are a swimmer, be sure that you shampoo your hair after getting out of the pool. If chlorine is allowed to remain in the hair, it will damage it.
Tammy York is a hairdresser at Ohana’s with 11 years experience. She is a Redken color specialist, certified in Platinum Seamless Extensions. In her quest to become the best hairstylist she can be, she has traveled to Chicago, New York, Orlando, and Ft. Lauderdale to further her education and learn the latest in cutting edge styles.
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Dr. John Cowan is a graduate of NYU and Emory, and is board certified in dermatology. He has been practicing in Bowling Green since October 2008 and owns Bowling Green Dermatology and Skin Cancer Specialists located on Fairway Street. He and wife Amy have twin three-year-olds, Jack and Kate. bowling green
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sweet treats
LOW FAT SNACKS A sweet-tooth can get the best of us, but what if your new favorite summer snack is healthy, cool, refreshing and contains no fat? Sweet CeCe’s, a new frozen yogurt shop located in Buckhead Square offers a variety of non-fat frozen treats, and better yet - you can apply your own choice of toppings!
LISTEN up Tony Rose from 100.7 SAM FM has listed the “must-have” Summer Songs 1-John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John ”You’re the One that I Want’’ and ‘’Summer Nights’’ / “Grease’’ The three moods of summer — a tease, a strut, a sigh 2-Martha and the Vandellas, ‘’Dancing in the Street’’ Martha wasn’t just describing a furtive bout of the twist under a traffic light; this was the heralding of a worldwide block party. This oldies staple may be long divorced from its context, but it sounds even more celebratory with civic hurts kept in mind amid the partying. 3-Alice Cooper, ‘’School’s Out’’ Rock & roll was practically invented as a way to decry classrooms and cruel gym teachers. But few warm-weather smashes capture the exuberant, See ya! feel that the last school bell rings in like this snarly anthem. 4-Mungo Jerry, ‘’In the Summertime’’ With its ticktack piano motif, shuffling beat and simple lyrics about swimming, looking for girls, driving, looking for girls, fishing, and looking for girls, this was a song only a sourpuss could hate. 5-The Beatles ‘’A Hard Day’s Night’’ It might be the best-recognized chord in history, that anticipatory G-sustained fourth that opens the song we most associate with Beatlemania. Fortunately, the rest of the tune’s pretty terrific too.
great Our summer pick uses their non-fat Alpine Vanilla (100 calories per serving, with 10% of your daily recommended calcium). For a dose of potassium add some bananas. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and prevents cardiovascular disease. To help rid your cells of cancer-causing free radicals, add some pineapple which is loaded with manganese. Antioxidants are plentiful in strawberries, and they can help regulate blood sugar. Boost your brain with some blueberries which defend against dementia and Alzheimers, and can help prevent the development of Parkinson’s. Add some kiwi for vitamin C, and to promote respiratory tract health, prevent wheezing, shortness of breath and high coughing. Top your dish with some peanuts - packed with protein and folate (an especially great vitamin for expectant moms!).
LOOKS
You can be a mommy and still be yummy wearing these great picks from My Friend’s Place. 1. Meredith is wearing a silk button-down tie blouse with Joes Jeans shorts. 2. Brooke is wearing a silk tunic by Green Dragon, paired with some white skinny jeans by Henry & Belle. Topping off her look are mother of pearl earrings and a necklace. 3. Meredith is sporting a blue flutter sleeve dress with Joes Jeans gold flake belt. 4. For a dressy affair, Meredith is wearing a lace dress by 213 and topped off the look with layered pearls. My Friend’s Place is located in The Pines shopping center on Scottsville Road.
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Digital Books FREE!
How to Check-Out eBooks from the Library Do you have a digital book reader like a Nook or a Kindle? Do you know that you can check eBooks out of the library? All it takes is a public library card, a pin, some downloaded software, and then you are on your way to borrowing some great books from the library. 1. To access the website for eBook downloads, go to www.warrenpl.org, and click Information & Services/Downloadable Materials. This takes you to the Kentucky Libraries Unbound website. 2. Scroll down until you see, on the left, Adobe Digital Editions. Click it. This is the software for eBooks (Nooks, Kindles). 3. On the next screen you will have a choice to install Adobe Digital Editions, for eBooks or Overdrive Media Console, which is for Ipads or Iphones. Choose Adobe Digital Editions. Follow the directions which will guide you through the Adobe verification download and installation. 4. After everything is installed, return to Kentucky Libraries Unbound through the Warren County Public Library. 5. Browse eBooks by title, subject or author. Once you have found a book that you would like to borrow, you will have the option of “Add to eCart” or “Place eHold.” If Add to eCart” is available to click, then this title can be checked out. If the option says “Place eHold” then the title is checked out and you will have to put the book on hold and you will be notified by email when it is available for download. 6. Clicking on “add to eCart” will prompt you to “proceed to checkout.” 7. Find your library on the dropdown list and click. Type your library card number with no spaces. Below the library card number, type in your pin. Your pin number is the last four digits of your library card number. Type those numbers in with no spaces. 8. You will have the option of choosing how long to check out your titles. Click on the lending period that is best for you and “Confirm Checkout.” Click “Download.” 9. Your Adobe Digital Editions software on your computer will automatically pop up and download the title. 10. To transfer titles to your eReader, plug your device into your computer with a USB cord. After a few seconds your eReader will show up as a little icon on your Adobe Digital Editions. 11. Click your title(s) and drag them to your device that will be displayed on the left hand side of the Adobe Digital Editions. The title is now on your device. Enjoy your trip to the library without ever leaving your home!
Contributed by Noel Gnadinger, Media Specialist and Dragon News Adviser, South Oldham High School
WCPL Available
Digital Books
Pictured at right: Claire Boggess, daughter of Mark and Julie Boggess and grandaughter of Dr. Dick and Dr. Julia Roberts of Bowling Green.
Warren County Public Library has expanded its digital collection with the addition of Disney Digital Books at warrenpl.lib.overdrive.com. This new collection features nearly 700 Disney Online Books. The Disney Online Books are browser based and can be enjoyed on a Windows or Mac computer. Titles offer interactive features to enhance the user experience such as a ‘magic pen’ that pronounces words with just one click, and the ability to look up word definitions. Users will recognize familiar Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Disney Princesses, Hannah Montana, and more. Users can browse, check out and enjoy titles on their computer. To check out Disney Digital Books, users need a valid library card, computer and Internet connection. At the end of the lending period, titles automatically expire and are returned to the collection. bowling green
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Breastfeeding Matters My job as regional breastfeeding coordinator at the health department is to sell something that’s hard to market: your baby’s future! In part, this is due to competition from artificial baby milk manufacturers. They’ll all agree that ‘breast is best’ but in the case of most of our busy lives, ‘best’ is not always attainable. BEST is a nice place to be but second best is probably good enough for most of us. Infant formula isn’t even second choice, it’s 4th in line. How many options are there, if formula is 4th ‘best’? At the top of the list is baby fed at mom’s breast. Then, baby fed with mom’s expressed breastmilk. Next comes donor milk (breastmilk from another woman) and following that is artificial baby milk. Here’s how I choose to look at it… breastfeeding isn’t ‘best,’ it’s normal because that is the biological norm for mammals. Mom’s milk changes in amount and composition as baby’s need changes, and increases supply as the demand increases. Mom’s milk is the gold standard by which all artificial baby milk is manufactured. How did formula companies figure out what to put in that can or how nutrient dense it needed to be? They examined mother’s milk. And although they couldn’t replicate all the ingredients, they have come up with a substance that helps babies grow with an appropriate amount of calories from fats, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals, and water. But formula isn’t helping us in the battle against
obesity, poor health, and intelligence. Breastfed babies don’t overeat, they have reduced risks of chronic and infectious disease, and they outsmart formula fed babies by about 10 IQ points. So, how does this biological norm get marketed? 1) With common sense. Watch mammals. Watch an unmedicated newborn crawl unassisted to the breast and latch properly and effectively, and look at models of baby’s belly sizes (hint: there’s nothing larger than a chicken’s egg in there). 2) With support. Ask the Lactation Consultant at the hospital. Ask about a La Leche League meeting in your area. Ask a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor at your health department. Ask me at the monthly BabyNet Community meetings. 3) With accurate information. Read the Surgeon General’s report. Ask Dr. Sears. Don’t be fooled by advertising. Read the news! Check out www. breastfeedingLINK.org. 4) With successful role models. Ask Jane Seymour, Christine Aguilera, Kelly Ripa, and Michael Jordan’s mother. Ask the nearest breastfed baby! Breastfeeding matters. It’s one of the first parenting choices you’ll make, and by far the most important single thing you’ll do to make a difference
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Pictured: Knox Gavic Palmer, son of Justin and Tyra Palmer of BG. in your baby’s future as far as disease prevention, weight control, and intelligence. Dana O’Meallie Bennett is a Registered Dietician and Lactation Counselor at the Allen County Health Department. Dana says she “was born on my due date and have been making up for it ever since.” She and husband Jim moved to Scottsville in 1996, and have embraced the beautiful area since the drive eastward on I-65. Dana says she loves food, and loves when people breastfeed.
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tick ATTACK! Besides walking in the woods, working & playing in your yard may be a risk factor for acquiring Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. One tick bite can cause many diseases, known as co-infections. Wear light colored clothing, long sleeves and pants, tuck pants into socks. Braid, cover or tie back long hair when venturing into areas where ticks can be. Spray clothing with bug sprays containing DEET. When coming in from outside activities, throw clothing into the dryer set on high heat. This will ensure no ticks survive. Take a shower and wash your hair. Keep pets that have outside exposure off furniture, especially bedding, and check them for ticks. Thorough tick checks should be done. Check dark, moist areas: hair, cracks behind ears, underarms, groin. Ticks should be removed promptly. The longer it is attached the higher the chance of disease transmission. Using fine pointed tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible without squeezing the tick’s body. Firmly pull it straight out (expect to feel some resistance). Save the tick for future testing by placing it in a plastic bag or in a small jar of alcohol. NEVER: squeeze the tick, burn it, or cover it with Vaseline or any other substance. Remember to disinfect the site of the bite, wash your hands and disinfect your tweezers. Contact your doctor.
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Head Lice: An Itchy Problem! Head Lice Treatment and Prevention Although the thought of head lice may make you start scratching, they are a common problem, especially for school aged children. It is wise to treat them quickly once diagnosed because lice can spread easily from person to person. To check for nits (eggs) and lice (hatched), part your child’s hair into small sections and check with a fine-tooth comb on the scalp, behind the ears, and around the nape of the neck. Be sure to check in a welllit area as the nits or lice are sometimes not easy to see, especially on fair-headed children. Contrary to urban legend, lice cannot fly or jump. They spread mainly through head-to-head contact, but sharing clothing, bed linens, combs, brushes, hats, and hair accessories, can also transmit lice from one child to another. Your pediatrician can recommend a medicated shampoo or lotion to kill the lice. Medicated lice treatments usually kill the lice and nits, but it may take a few days for the itching to stop. Some kids only experience mild irritation from the itching. For others, a more painful, itchy rash can lead to a bacterial infection that your pediatrician may treat with an oral antibiotic. Your pediatrician may suggest combing out nits with a fine-tooth comb and may recommend repeating treatment in 7 to 10 days to kill any newly hatched nits. Do not treat any child’s hair with products or substances that are not approved, such as Kerosene. These are not effective and can cause injuries. Head lice don’t survive long once they fall off, so remember some simple ways to prevent re-infestation that don’t involve a lot of time or cost. 1. Clean everything! Wash all bed linens, clothing, and towels that have been recently used by anyone in your home in very hot water. Put them in the hot cycle of the dryer for at least 20 minutes. Have items that cannot be washed (ex: plush toys) dry-cleaned or secured in a tightly sealed bag for two weeks. 2. Vacuum carpets, rugs, mattresses, july / august / september 2011
pillows and any upholstered furniture in your home. Car seats and head rests should be vacuumed. 3. Soak hair-care items in rubbing alcohol or medicated shampoo for at least one hour. Because lice are easily passed from person to person in the same house, bedmates and infested family members will also need treatment to prevent the lice from coming back. Having head lice is not an indication of poor personal hygiene or low economic status. Educate your child to not share personal items such as hair brushes or caps. Dealing with head lice can be frustrating and time-consuming, but being aware of how to prevent and treat it, creates a healthy, nit / lice and itch-free environment for everyone! Grecia Wilson, RN, BSN serves as the District Health Coordinator for Warren County Public Schools. A native of Scottsville and a graduate of WKU, she enjoys working with children of all ages. She and her family live in Warren County, KY.
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Children’s Eye Care & Safety Without good vision, a child’s ability to learn becomes more difficult. Vision problems affect one in 20 preschoolers and one in four school-age children. Since many vision problems begin at an early age, it is very important that children receive proper eye care.
Q. What are the most common eye problems in children? A. The most common problem I see is turned eye or lazy eye. Color blindness is 10-12 times higher in boys, but there is not a lot you can do to treat it. The national average for glasses in kids is only 13%. Q. What are signs a child might have vision problems? A. If a parent notices a child repeatedly holding things unusually close, turning their head to look at something, squinting, that can be a sign of a vision problem. Q. What is pink eye and how is it treated? A. Pink eye is a contagious eye infection and can be transferred just like a cold. Antibiotics are used to treat a bacterial eye infection and while pink eye can sometimes go away on its own, it can also spread to other people, get worse and even cause a sight-threatening infection. Symptoms include red, watery eyes, mucus and eyelashes sticking together. While your child’s pediatrician can treat pink eye, it is recommended to
see your eye doctor for a more thorough examination and in case of complications. Vision Screenings Young children with vision problems often do not know that the way they see the world is not the way everyone sees it. Without early detection and treatment, vision problems can lead to permanent vision loss and learning difficulties. Only an eye doctor can diagnose and treat a vision problem, but screenings help find children who need a full eye exam. Vision Assistance Programs • Sight for Students is a VSP charity that provides free vision exams and glasses to low-income, uninsured children. www.sightforstudents.org • VISION USA provides basic eye & vision care services free to uninsured, low-income people www. aoa.org/x5607.xml • InfantSEE® is a program in which optometrists provide eye and vision assessments for infants within the first year of life regardless of a family’s income. www.infantsee.org • Lions Club International offers a number of services, including camps for the blind and visually impaired, vouchers for free glasses for the needy, vision vans, free eye exams on “hometown day” and other programs. www.lionsclub.org Avoiding Eye Injury Each year, thousands of children have eye accidents at home, at play, or in the car. These eye injuries can damage a child’s sight and even cause blindness. Taking these simple steps can help prevent eye injuries to your child: 1. Understand the dangers 2. Find and remove hazards 3. Watch your child closely
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The most common causes of eye injuries to children: • Misuse of toys • Falls from beds, against furniture, on stairs • Misuse of everyday objects (forks, pens and pencils) • Harmful household products (detergents, paints, glues) july / august / september 2011
Owen Millet, son of Allison and Rodgie Millet of Bowling Green. • Automobile accidents. How to tell if your child has an eye injury If you notice any of these signs, get medical help: • Your child has obvious pain or trouble seeing • Your child has a cut or torn eyelid • One eye does not move as well as the other • One eye sticks out compared to the other • The eye has an unusual pupil size or shape • There is blood in the clear part of the eye • Something in the eye that can’t be easily removed Visiting an Eye Doctor Helpful tips when taking your child to the eye doctor: 1. Ask your relatives, friends and neighbors if they know the name of an eye doctor who is good with children. 2. Schedule the appointment when your child is not likely to be sleepy or hungry. If your child has a “cranky” time of day, schedule around it. 3. Make a list of questions. Take notes when speaking to the doctor so you can refer to them later. 4. Have a plan ready in case you need to spend time in the waiting room. Bring a favorite storybook, coloring book or small toy that your child can play with quietly. A snack can also help to pass the time. 5. Let your child watch a family member get an eye exam. Have the doctor explain what is being done, step by step, and encourage the child to ask questions. 6. Bring your child’s favorite cuddly toy. The doctor can “examine” the bear or doll and holding a toy may keep little hands off of expensive equipment. 7. Relax. Children look to adults for cues: if you seem nervous, your child may become anxious. “A lot of people just assume that if they don’t need glasses, their child doesn’t. There is no way to know unless you see a professional. Eye examinations look for normal eye development. It makes sure if there is a problem you catch it early because if you wait too late it is a lot harder to fix,” Dr. Heltsley said. Dr. Russell Heltsley is originally from Hopkinsville, Kentucky and graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. He has been practicing in Bowling Green since 1997 and is married to Cathy, an oncologist. They have three children: Kyle (age 11), Rachel (age 10) and Erin (age 8) – all students at St. Joseph School. page
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Drive-To Destinations
for Family Fun and Fall Color
Off-road exploits and riverboat excursions, a visit to a German hamlet and an overnight in a haunted jail – families can find a number of colorful adventures just a drive away during leaf-peeping season:
Get your ATV on in Anderson County, Tenn. Oliver Springs’ 72,000-acre Coal Creek OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) Area, located in the scenic Appalachian and Cumberland Mountains of East Tennessee, has over 250 miles of trails – from gravel roads to extreme mountainous terrain – for ATVs, motorcycles, mountain bikes, Jeeps and Railbuggies. Privately owned and maintained, the trails are marked with trail number, degree of difficulty and the trail vehicles permitted. Adding a unique aspect to the adventure are 18 windmills on Buffalo Mountain, their graceful blades making a gentle whoosh-whoosh-whoosh. Families can bunk down for the night in the Windrock Park Campground (tent and RV camping plus cabins) or one of two kidfriendly bed and breakfast inns: Windrock B&B and The Windmill Inn. The 2011 Coal Creek OHV Area Fall Jamboree is scheduled for October 20-22. Information: Anderson County Tourism Council, YallCome.org or Coal Creek OHV, www.CoalCreekOHV.com Take a colorful cruise in Chattanooga, Tenn. Ooh and ahh over the colors of the changing leaves on a riverboat cruise into the Tennessee River gorge and offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee Valley. Brilliant hues are the theme indoors, too, at the Tennessee Aquarium with its colorful frogs, shimmering jellyfish and vivid reef fish – plus new Ranger Rick-themed, hands-on area that includes animal encounters.
Overnight at The Chattanoogan, a luxe resort kids appreciate for its elbow room and cushy beds and Mom and Dad love for its soothing earthy color palette and Sarah Frances and mom Frances on the rooms made for swing-a-long bridge at Rock City. sleep-in mornings, some of which usher in views of Lookout Mountain. The Chattanoogan’s Fall Foliage Package (from $225 based on a family of four) includes accommodations, tickets to Southern Belle Riverboat’s Fall Foliage Cruise, breakfast at the hotel’s Broad Street Grille, use of health and recreation facilities and service charges. Information: Chattanooga Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.chattanoogafun.com; The Chattanoogan, www.chattanooganhotel.com. Take the family to ‘Germany’ in less than six hours Destination: The Bavarian village of Alpine Helen in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. Shop for souvenirs to the beat of German oom pah pah music in Helen’s bustling downtown. Gobble sweet treats from Hansel and Gretel’s Candy Kitchen. Tour the world’s largest Alpine model railroad museum at Charlemagne’s Kingdom. See dozens of big, hairy spiders at the Live Tarantulas Gallery. Follow a round of adventure golf with a scoop or two of ice cream at an old-fashioned parlor. Be at the Magic Crystal Tree when a new baby arrives at Babyland General® Hospital – home of the Cabbage Patch Kids®. Feed baby goats, roast marshmallows, mine for gemstones and become an honorary Goat Ranger at Goats on the Roof, a ginormous gift shop/ entertainment complex. Paint your own “green theme” whimsical toy at Elfmade Toys. Then fall into bed at a mountain cabin. Information: Alpine Helen-White County Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.HelenGA.org.
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Lock down a family adventure in Bardstown, Ky. Hear the clang of the slamming cell door at the Jailer’s Inn Bed and Breakfast, where kids can snooze on two original cell bunks in a cheekily adorned jail cell guestroom with a black and white motif accented by a poster of Elvis Presley in full “Jailhouse Rock” hipswivel. This former prison cell in the Old Nelson County Jail property – constructed in 1819 of native limestone with 30-inch thick walls – also has a queen-size bed for Mom and Dad and private bath. Surrounded by a stone wall, it is known to be haunted – and guests can tour the jail . . . if they dare. Other Bardstown fun: Slurp down a milkshake from an old-fashioned soda fountain; see a Civil War drum collection; ride the rails with the Beau and Breece Bryant visit Thomas Kentucky Railway the Train at the KY Railway Museum. Museum; and relive frontier life at Old Bardstown Village. (Civil War Re-enactments take place the third weekend, MarchDecember.) Information: Bardstown-Nelson County & Convention Commission, www.SampleOurSpirit.com Kathy Witt is a freelance writer and the author of the historical middle grade novel, The Secret of the Belles, which the late Cammie King Conlon (“Bonnie Blue Butler”) called “a beautiful read, and another amazing tribute to the phenomenon that is Gone With the Wind.” Visit Kathy’s website at www.KathyWitt.com and her blog at www. TravelinTales.com. Pictured is Kathy in Marietta, Ga., with two of the three “Beaus” from the 1939 movie classic, Gone With the Wind: (L) Patrick Curtis (“Baby Beau) and Mickey Kuhn (“Young Beau Wilkes”).
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Top Apps to Entertain! Do you buy apps for your cell phone to keep you child occupied and then worry that you bought something that had no entertainment or educational value? We have listed some of the top applications for Iphones, iPads and Androids to help you make better purchases. iPhone and Ipad apps are purchased through iTunes and Android applications are downloaded though the Android Market.
Fruit Ninja Price: $.99. Fruit Ninja is an Android app that that lets kids use their finger as a blade to swipe and slice various pieces of fruit that fly up in the air in this juicy action game. Jewellust Price: $.99. Jewellust is a connect-three puzzle game with an Ancient Egypt flavor Android app.
Kids 0-4 The Monster at the End of This Book Price: $3.99. Everything a kids’ book app should be: funny, interactive, and well designed. TallyTots Price: $1.99. TallyTots is a colorful, intuitive counting application for the iPad. Toddler Counting Price: $ .99. If you are teaching your toddler to count this is a must have for iPhone and iPod Touch. Abduction! Price: $.99. Abduction is an Android app where the player is a cow whose cow friends have been abducted by aliens.
Kids 5-8 Motion Math Price: $1.99. Motion Math for the iPad is a math app that is a painless way to learn fractions, decimals, and percents. Slice It! Price: $1.99. A fun educational app with subtle notes of geometry for the iPhone, iPad, and Android Angry Birds Price: $.99. For the iPhone, iPad or Android, Angry Birds features hours of gameplay, challenging physicsbased castle demolition, and lots of replay value. Baseball Superstars 2011 Price:$ .99. For the iPhone and Android, a fun
baseball game application. Doodle Jump Price:$ .99. For the iPhone and Android, race to the top against other doodle jumpers, addictive game. Goofy MadLibs Price: $3.99. For the IPhone, this is the same Madlibs you used to play in a book. Kids 9-12 Bookworm Price:$2.99. For the iPhone. Have an appetite for words? Then join Lex the Bookworm in the hit wordpuzzle game. Chuzzles Price:$2.99.For the iPhone. They are cute, cuddly and explosive furballs that just need a little nudge. The Moron Test Price: $.99. For the iPhone. Prove you’re a genius with The Moron Test, the App Store’s leading brain-teaser! For more information about good software for kids, check out www.bestkidapps.com.
WIN one of FOUR Family Vacation Getaways! Courtesy of Bowling Green Parent, WNKY and our Travel Partners!
Are you looking to take a late summer or Fall Break getaway? How about if it were FREE? Bowling Green Parent has partnered with WNKY CBS and NBC 40 to offer a summer contest you won’t want to miss! This August, tune into WNKY’s Bowling Green Today show with Morgan Watson and Radar the Weather Dog for Four Fab Fridays of Fun! Morgan will tell you about each of our fab trip giveaways, and you can register to win on wnky.net or bgparent.com (one registration per household, please) starting August 1. These four drive-to destinations are each giving away two-night stays for a family of four - plus other goodies, including attractions passes and meals: • Alpine Helen, Georgia (www.HelenGA.org) • Anderson County, Tennessee (http://YallCome.org) • Bardstown, Kentucky (www.SampleOurSpirit.com) • The Chattanoogan Hotel (www.ChattanooganHotel.com) One lucky winner will also receive a Sausalito 20” Expandable Four Wheel WheelAboard™ and a Travel Buddy duo from Trendy Kid! Ricardo Beverly Hills’ Expandable carry-on ($240 value) from its Sausalito Superlight Collection will lighten
Mom and Dad’s load on the road, weighing in at only 7.1-pounds. It’s super tough and has expandability for extra packing capacity, plus this lines offers quality and value at affordable prices and was named in National Geographic’s book, The Ten Best of Everything. Ricardo Beverly Hills luggage is available locally at Macy’s and through online retailers, including eBags. com, TheLuggageGuru.com and LuggagePros.com. TrendyKid’s Travel Buddies duo is perfectly styled with a wheeled carry-on and matching back pack for daily use or on vacation. The two-piece set includes an 18” ABS hard shell rolling suitcase with easy-roll wheels and parentfriendly adjustable pull handle and a matching 13” backpack. The Buddies are charmers in penguin, panda, bee, lady bug, pig and alien designs. MSRP $89.99/set. www.trendykid.com Enter online to win! www.wnky.net www.bgparent.com
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2011 SOKY FAIR ... Good ‘Ole Fashioned Southern Fun! Each summer Lampkin Park is transformed into a fair midway complete with rides, games, food and lots of fun. At only $10 admission per person, your family will have plenty to keep them busy for this 8-day event. The SOKY Fair is a project of the Warren County Jaycees, and money raised at the fair goes to support a number of community projects throughout the year. Whether it be worthwhile organizations like the Family Enrichment Center or Boys and Girls Club, or funding community projects with the Boy Scouts, one of the major goals of the Jaycees is to better our community all while meeting new business contacts, learning new skills and making new friends. The Jaycees are seeking fair volunteers, and you can sign up to lend a helping hand online. We’ve got highlights of the 2011 Fair schedule here, and visit their website, www.sokyfair.org, for more information, entry forms and additional details. Saturday, July 23rd - Opening Night Fair gates open at 6pm • Beauty Pageant - Warren Central Auditorium Doors open and registration begins at 9am. $8 admission (one parent admitted free with contestant age 0-4). $20 entry fee 0-35 months, $25 entry fee ages 4-7, $40 Little Mister & Miss, $35 Miss Pre-Teen, $40 Miss Teen, $50
Miss SOKY Fair. Deadline to pre-register July 20. After that, add a $15 late fee. Directions, information or any additional questions can be directed to the SOKY Fair Office by calling 270.842.7980 or to pageant chairman, Tara Griffith, by e-mailing pageants@sokyfair.org or online at www.sokyfair.org Monday, July 25th Gates open at 6pm • 4-H Beef Show, check-in 4-4:30pm, Show at 5pm Contact: Janet Turley 270-842-1681 or Tina Brown 270-535-9120 • Lawn Mower Demolition Derby, 7pm (online registration available) Tuesday, July 26th Eriksen Chiropractic Family Night - Bring canned goods (4/person) for $2 off admission benefiting BRASS Gates open at 6pm • 4-H Sheep Show check-in 10-10:30am, show 11am • 4-H Goat Show, weigh-in 12-12:30pm, show 1pm Goat & Sheep Show Contacts: Janet Turley 270842-1681, David Alexander 270-991-3811 and Todd Conway 270-535-7493 • 4-H Poultry Show • Carnival rides free with admission. Mascots including KY State Fair Bears, Axle & Roscoe, Big Red • Compact Car Figure 8 Race, 7pm • Lost River Cavemen performing at 7pm at the track
Thursday, July 28th Gates open at 6pm • Compact Car Demolition Derby, 7pm • 2nd Annual Trent Bedding SoKY Bed Race Friday, July 29th Gates open at 6pm • 1980 & Newer Demolition Derby, 7pm • DJ on the stages at 7pm Saturday, July 30th Gates open at 6pm • KOTTPA Modified Truck Pulls, 7pm, Entry fee $20 • Salvage Town performing at 7pm on the stages Ongoing Activities • 4-H Exhibits • Inflatable City will be set up Monday-Thursday from 6-8pm for kids shorter than 36”.
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Wednesday, July 27th Gates open at 6pm • 4-H Dairy Show, check-in 9am, show 10am, Contacts: Janet Turley 270-842-1681 or Ronald Buntin 270792-2528 • KTPA Tractor Pull, 7pm • Karaoke Contest on the stages
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Could Your Child Be Is your child hyperactive? Does he or she have problems focusing at school? The fix may be as simple as a better night sleep! The last thing you might think is that your child is sleep deprived—but better sleep might be the answer to the hyperactivity, lack of focus, or moodiness in your child. Not every hyperactive child is sleep deprived—but hyperactivity is a warning sign that should not be overlooked. Like we parents, many children are going through their days sleep deprived. The signs of sleep deprivation in some children are opposite from the symptoms displayed by infants and adults. Young children may rub their eyes or cry. Some children will show daytime sleepiness or have a brief period of hyperactivity followed by a “crash.” Other children act hyper, have mood swings, have trouble staying awake or focused at school, or have trouble calming down and going to sleep at night. Read on for tips to help your child get the sleep he or she needs. Set the stage for sleep You can set good sleep habits with your child by establishing and keeping a regular sleep routine. The activities before bed will be different depending on the child’s age, but may include taking a bath, reading a book, singing songs or other quiet activity. As part of
Sleep-Deprived?
the routine, it is important to keep bedtime within the same hour every night.
• Do not allow children to watch TV to fall asleep as it leads to poor sleep.
Toddlers (1-3) A toddler needs around 11 hours of night sleep and 2-2.5 hours of sleep over 1 or 2 nap times. At this age, your child is becoming more independent, and he or she may resist going to bed. Separation anxiety and nightmares can be common at this age, too.
School-age children (5-12) School-age children have many activities that may cause them to get into bed late. However, they should go to bed about 8 or 9 p.m., so that they can get 10-11 hours of sleep each night. “Irregular sleep is a common disorder in this group,” says Doctor Walter Warren, Medical Director of The Medical Center Sleep Center. “A sleep diary can keep track and show irregular sleep.” Look for daytime sleepiness as well as hyperactivity, mood swings, and behavioral problems.
• Encourage the use of a security object at bedtime (a blanket, doll or other item) to help with separation anxiety. • Stick to the bedtime routine even on vacation. • Use white noise machines or a fan to help dampen other noises in the house. Preschoolers (3-5) A 3-year-old may still take a nap, but by age 4 or 5, most children do not nap and should get about 1111.5 hours of sleep each night. At this age, night terrors can begin and fears about imaginary things can keep a child awake at night. Night terrors are different from nightmares, and usually happen about 90 minutes after falling asleep. The child may scream and appear to be awake but is confused and unresponsive. Speak to a physician if this happens frequently. • If you want to establish a calm bedtime routine, do not use going to bed as a punishment. Try to make going to bed a relaxing and positive experience—even when your child resists. It will build a foundation of better sleep habits in the future.
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• Avoid caffeine—especially several hours before bedtime. • Encourage a bedtime routine that does not include entertainment such as TV or the computer. • Be aware if your child is holding their breath while they sleep, snoring, or having night terrors and talk to your doctor. These can be signs of serious sleep disorders. Teens Once a teenager, time for bed becomes a personal matter. However, teens should get at least 7-8 hours of sleep before they have to get up. So, a 6 a.m. wake up means a 10 p.m. time for bed. A 5 a.m. wake up means a 9 p.m. time for bed. It is better in general if that same schedule is kept for the weekends, too. • Daytime sleepiness, lack of concentration, and mood swings can be signs of poor sleep. • Check out the sleep resources for teens at the National Sleep Foundation web site. For information on night terrors, snoring, bed-wetting, and more check out the links on the Sleep Center page at themedicalcenter.org. You can also attend the free sleep screening at the Health and Wellness Center at Greenwood Mall on August 10 from 9 a.m. to noon.
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Do a Good Turn
Help Make a Rough Road a Little Smoother South Central Kentucky where we live is a very giving community. Anytime an hour of need arises, it is our friends and neighbors who come to the rescue. Large amounts of money and copious hours of volunteer time are given each year to support myriad nonprofits providing a variety of services ranging from combating domestic violence to providing food and shelter to the homeless. Without that support, these agencies wouldn’t be able to function to their full potential. United Way of Southern Kentucky helps us with our need to help others. Their motto, Live United, is a call to action that many people have answered; giving whatever time, talent, and treasure they can afford to invest. Marissa Butler, Public Relations Director of Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, explains her involvement with United Way, “I started as a member of the Volunteer Committee in 2009 when a friend recommended the United Way as a worthy project. All of the tasks I have worked on have been perfect fits for my time.” Marissa described some of the different ways she has been involved. “I have participated in the Feed the Need Food Drive for the last 3 years, collecting groceries for the disadvantaged at area grocery stores. It is a great way to spread the word about United Way’s
message. I have enjoyed talking to people as they go into the grocery and ask them to pick up a few extra items to drop off on their way out.” Some of the other volunteer opportunities that Marissa has participated in include the Day of Caring and Invest in Success summer reading program. At the summer program she reads to kids to help them maintain academic skills after school is out. The students also do fun activities, like art projects, and have mid-day lunches. Marissa says that it was the most rewarding way to give her time, have lots of fun, and make great friends both on committees and other volunteers you meet on the job. There are opportunities to volunteer to help your community or your neighbor through United Way on the upcoming Day of Caring, July 27. Check out their website and make a selection at www.liveunitedtoday. com. Last year 471 volunteers completed 62 projects. If you are less about volunteering and more about giving financial assistance, the Pace Setter Kick-Off is in September. Many employers, including partner agencies like local school districts, make it easy to opt into regular payroll donations to United Way. Local
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businesses like General Motors and BGMU and many others, have been strong supporters through their financial support, food drives and other campaigns. U.S. Bank puts on the huge event Balloons, Tunes & BBQ each September at the Warren County Regional Airport to benefit United Way. It’s a 4-day event with free admission and parking. There’s great food, a carnival and children’s activities, hot air balloonists from all over the country, and 4 performances by Nashville country music groups on Saturday with shows at 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm, and 8:45 pm. The performers will be announced in mid-July.
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the
mighty ego of the Fox and the patience of his animal friends.
book nook There’s a Wolf at the Door: Five Classic Tales; Retold by Zoe B. Alley You may think you know The Three Little Pigs, but did you know that their names were Alan, Gordon, and Blake? Or that Little Red Riding Hood was a fashion victim? Or that the Boy Who Cried Wolf was really just desperate for some decent conversation? A hungry wolf just can’t catch a break in these five loosely connected folktales. The text is full of puns, alliteration, and occasional rhymes. The oversize format and the graphic-novel style make this “retelling” of five classic tales quit appealing to older elementary students who are familiar with the original versions. There’s A Wolf At The Door delivers a fresh take on old standards while not going so far off the beaten path that they’re unrecognizable. It’s a great choice for family reading - even young readers can sit quietly and enjoy all the action in the illustrations as they look through the book themselves. The larger-than-usual size makes this a good lap book as the kids gather around for a story, one that you’ll enjoy as much as they do.
Lousy Rotten Stinkin’ Grapes; by Margie Palatini An ingenious and hilarious twist to a well-loved Aesop fable! Fox eyes the grapes hanging from a vine high on a tree and thinks that he can get them easily. After all, he is clever, smart, AND he is a fox. Armed with paper and pencil, he draws his plan and tries it out—no grapes! He enlists the help of Bear, Beaver, Porcupine, and Possum, each of whom tries to offer alternatives to Fox’s plan. Will the grapes be sour by the time Fox reaches them? Margie Palatini’s text and Barry Moser’s illustrations for Lousy Rotten Stinkin’ Grapes put a fun, modern twist on Aesop’s The Fox and the Grapes. We gain great insight into the elaborate schemes and
The Circus Ship; written & illustrated by Chris Van Dusen The fictional story based on a historical event, written in verse, will captivate young readers, ages 4-8 years old. It’s about a ship full of circus animals that runs into thick fog and crashes off the coast of Maine. The animals find their way to a nearby island much to the dismay of the people who live there. The islanders wake to find elephants walking around, monkeys hanging from their clotheslines, hippos bathing in the streams, and exotic snakes peeking in their pantries. At first the people are worried and annoyed at the chaos the new arrivals have created. Then a brave rescue of one of the children changes their minds. Just as they all begin to live happily together, the circus boss returns to bring his animals back to work. Will the people be able to rescue them? You’ll have to find out.
About the Reviewer: Jane Coverdale has been the Librarian at T. C. Cherry Elementary for 13 years. She loves to read a wide variety of books to her students, and feels it is very important to continue sharing readalouds with older students. It is such a joy to see them appreciate and understand the humor in some of the wonderful retellings of familiar tales.
Free Activities at Warren Co. Public Library Mondays Toddler Time (9:30-10:30am) Kirby, 18-36 months Kirby Kids (3:30-4:30pm) Kirby, elementary age Family Story Time (6:30pm) Smiths Grove
Jul. 14 Broadway the Clown, Smiths Grove Branch, 4pm Jul. 23, Summer reading finale at Circus Square, 10:30am. Dress to get wet!
Tuesdays Barnes & Noble Storytime Toddler Time (9:30-10:30am) Main, 18-36 mos. Friday, 11:30 am Preschool Spanish (11:30am) Main Saturday, 3:33 pm Spanish Explorers Club (4:30pm) Main, elementary age PJ Tales (6pm) Main, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays each month Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program - read 8 books Wednesdays and earn a FREE book! PreschoolKirby Babies (9:30-10:30am) Kirby, 6-18 mos. Preschool Story Time (10:30am) Smiths Grove, Main & 6th grade. Visit Barnes & Noble on Campbell Lane to sign up. Kirby After School Special (3:30pm) Graham, all age students
Thursdays Preschool Story Time (10:30-11:30am) Main, 3-5 years Afterschool at the Grove (3-4pm) Smiths Grove, K-6 High Five Kids Club (4-5pm) Main, K-5 Teen Thursdays (5pm) Grades 6-12, Graham Fridays Peek-a-book Babies (9:30-10:30am) Main, 6-18 mos. Preschool Story Time (10:30-11:30am) Kirby & Main Teen Scene (3:30-4:30pm) Kirby (jr. high, middle & high school students) Saturdays Family Story Time (10:30am) Kirby Branch page
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Jul. 8 Karate/Jujitsu Demo, Main Branch, 3pm july/august/september 2011
B&N Family Game Day Thursday at 2:30pm Nook Tutorial Barnes & Noble July 19, 7pm Friends of the Library Used Book Sale, L & N Depot, Sept. 23–25. Members of the Friends of the Library can shop at the special preview night on Thurs., Sept. 22. Donate your books, audio books, dvds and cds to any library branch. For info, call Donna Wofford, 270-843-2296 bowling green
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