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PA R E N T BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE pages 16-17
Bicycle & Fireworks
SAFETY pages 18-19
FR
EE
FNB Kids with
CLASS pages 6-7
VITAMINS
For Mom & Kids pages 22-23
SUMMER CAMP, CARE & ACTIVITY GUIDE pages 8-11 7-9
Broadway: Just Clowning Around
Photo by Bob Pitchford
Nick Wilkins always knew he wanted to be a clown. “My character, Broadway, grew from my visits to the circus as a kid,” Nick reminisced. “I would sneak to the back of the tent to talk with the clowns just to learn circus secrets.” Clowning might be hereditary. Nick’s father, Jim Wilkins, was a professional magician named Wandi the Magician. Nick began performing as Broadway 42 years ago when he was only 15 years old. “My clown character was still evolving,” Nick explained. And then he got a big break. “I had the chance to attend Clown College in Venice FL.,” Nick said. “It was amazing. Over 5,200 people applied, 62 were accepted, and 34 of us were hired by Ringling Brothers at the end of the course.” Years later, Ringling Brothers closed the doors on the Clown College, leaving no official school available. “I’ve heard there is a former clown with a school in San Francisco and another with a school in New York, but no full programs,” he said. “I think many famous clowns now come from Europe.” The Ringling Brothers clown program was “intensive” says Nick. The college was located in the Ringling Brothers winter headquarters where there was a big, beautiful arena with all the circus props, animals and seasoned performers. He studied make-up, acrobatics, stilt walking, juggling, unicycle riding, dance, magic, circus history, prop building and design, sewing for costumes. His acting classes included slapstick comedy, clown gags, skits and improvisation.
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“When I graduated I started work with Ringling Brothers,” Nick said. “I also did some work at Disney.” After two years with the circus, Nick returned to Bowling Green where he refined his now famous character, Broadway the Clown. “In Bowling Green, I worked with my Dad’s magic show, called It’s Magic. It was a two hour program of me, Dad, another magician, my brother and sister and a ventriloquist. We traveled on weekends,” Nick explained. “And, eventually I opened my business, Balloon-A-Gram.” Throughout all these years, Broadway has been a very visible face in the community. Hundreds of kids have learned clowning skills from him through opportunities at Super Saturday, SCATS, the National Corvette Museum and other places. He has been a faithful volunteer in the community in activities that bring joy to many people’s hearts and puts a smile on their face. Special Olympians have seen him on the field for over 30 years. Junior Achievement students have been encouraged to become entrepreneurs from his lessons. But one of Broadway’s most tender involvements is the Dream Factory, a dream granting organization run 100% by volunteers granting wishes for critically and chronically ill children. But what makes Broadway Broadway? Could it be the big white smile, humongous shoes or balloon animals? Bowling Green knows- it’s Nick Wilkins’ big heart. <
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from the editor
in this issue
Happy Summer, Readers! The end of school brings a whirlwind of summer time activities. Parents are faced with the need for summer care that keeps their children happy and busy. This issue of Bowling Green Parent offers our Summer Camp Guide. See it in print and on our website for the best of our area’s camps and programs for kids. It is with great happiness we announce the expansion of our family! On March 31, Publisher Katie, husband Anthony, and daughter Sophia, welcomed a healthy baby boy, Dominic Christopher, into their family. The most important mission of our magazine has always been good parenting. With the addition to the family, in order to be what we hope to promote, we have had to make a hard decision. After this issue, the print version of Bowling Green Parent Magazine will be on a publishing hiatus. Thank you for your support and friendship. LIKE US...Contests, local happenings, ideas & more! Cara & Katie
A Proud Member of the
Cover photo: taken by Lindsey Boler of Red Elephant Studios in Scottsville. Broadway the Clown and the runners-up of our My Kid Rocks Contest: Ella, 3 year old daughter of Courtney and Jason Wiesbrook and Clay, 2 year old son of Kelli and Lucas Tinsley
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events
4-5 Community Spotlight 8-11 Camp Guide 14-15 Calendar 26 Mother’s Day Area Happenings & Events
Summer Care. Camps & Activities
Events & Activities
Your Dilemmas Solved
health & safety
12 Buddy House 19 Fireworks 22-23 Vitamins
Down Syndrome Resource
Stay Safe & Public Showings For Mom & Kids
education
13 Swimming 28 Book Nook
Lessons & Places
Good Reads Recommended
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PA R E N T Bowling Green Parent is a quarterly publication for Bowling Green / Warren County and surrounding areas. We generate 10,000 free copies of this issue which can be picked up at over 200 local familyfriendly businesses in six counties. For a list of locations: www.bgparent.com/about/distribution To inquire about advertising, call 270-792-7228 or email info@bgparent.com. Katie Frassinelli, Publisher and Creative Director
Carolyn Cossey Pitchford, Editor-in-Chief
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.
THANKS to our supporters & contributors! Without the advertisers in BG Parent, we would not be able to bring this FREE publication to you! Please thank them by visiting their business, and tell them you saw them in BG Parent! We are also thankful for our talented writers and contributors who volunteer their time to bring you fresh stories. If you are interested in contributing, please email your idea to info@bgparent.com. bowling green
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features
6-7 Kids with Class 16-17 Birthday Party Guide 18 Bicycling 20-21 Yummy Mommy 24 Travel: Horse Country 26 Caroline Ford 27 Single Dad presented by Farmers Nat’l Bank Resources for Parties
A Family Activity
Look & Feel Your Best
Kentucky’s Derby Region Making a Difference Parenting Alone
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Community Spotlight & News Downtown Bowling Green Second Saturdays
Fairy Garden Tour & Tea Share a magical afternoon with your child! Attend the Bowling Green Garden Club’s FAIRY GARDEN TOUR on Sunday, May 19th, 2013 and see fairy gardens come alive! The gardens are open from 1-4pm. Refreshments will be served at Lost River Cave’s new Children’s Garden from 3-5pm. Advance tickets are on sale at Chatters, Riley’s Bakery, Wild Bird & Nature Store and through Club members. Adult tickets are $10.00 and Children are $5.00 in advance. At the door tickets will be $12.00 for Adults and $7.00 for a Child.
Held around Fountain Square Park, the Second Saturday Street Fairs are organized by The Downtown Merchants and Professionals and are held 9am-3pm every second Saturday. Activities include inflatables and games for kids, horse and carriage rides, both for a modest fee, live music, sidewalk sales by merchants as well as vendors, including jewelry makers, outdoor furniture and food. For more info, contact Therese at DRA 270782-0222.
Duncan Hines Festival
New Cost-Plus Grocery Opens Houchens Industries, Inc. has unveiled the new Price Less IGA grocery store at 2475 Scottsville Road, next to h.h. gregg near Greenwood Mall. Price Less IGA is a costplus format, offering products to customers at 10 percent above the store’s cost. “Price Less IGA is simple and straightforward,” said Alan Larsen, director of marketing and merchandising for Houchens Industries, parent company of Price Less IGA. “For today’s cost-conscious shopper, Price Less IGA is unique because of the extensive selection of name brand products as well as IGA exclusive brands.” “The vast majority of shoppers want to save money on groceries, but they don’t like to sacrifice quality or their favorite brands,” Larsen continued. “Price Less gives shoppers the best of both worlds. It also features a full variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, top quality meats, and in-house deli and bakery.” The Bowling Green Price Less IGA is open daily 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Learn more at www.MyPriceLessFoods. com or facebook.com/PriceLessFoods.
The 2013 Duncan Hines Festival is slated for July 12-13, kicking off at Circus Square in downtown Bowling Green Friday evening followed by the Adventures In Good Baking contest on Saturday at the WKU ‘s Kentucky Library & Museum. The Friday concert takes place from 6-11pm featuring Andy & The Rockers. In addition to the band, the night will also include many craft, jewelry and drink vendors, games, a Duncan Hines Brownie Eating Contest, and the annual Uncle Duncan’s Duck Derby. Ducks can be adopted for $5, or five ducks for $20 for a chance to win up to $1,000 in cash. To adopt ducks, look for the duck pond or contact bgjrwc@yahoo.com prior to the night of the event. The Adventures in Good Baking Contest and The Adventurous Kids Baking Contest will be held at the WKU Kentucky Library & Museum on Saturday. Entries will be accepted from 10am-12pm, judging will be held at noon with awards at 1pm. Simply have fun baking using at least one Duncan Hines product to enter your cakes, cupcakes & other creations in the
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adult or kids baking contests. After judging, there will be a tasting of all of the wonderful treats! The categories will be Best Taste, Best Presentation and Thinking Outside the Cake Box. The winners for both the adult and kids contests will be announced at 1pm and prizes will be awarded to the winners. The Duncan Hines Festival is annual fundraiser to benefit a selected local non-profit and is sponsored by the Bowling Green Junior Woman’s Club and many others. For more information on any of these events, please visit www.duncanhinesfestival.com.
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fan banter “The love of my life gave me front row tickets to Cats the Musical. I felt like I’d won the lottery.” - Annie “The best Mother’s Day present I got was my daughter Anna. She was born on her due date which was May 8, 2005 and that just so happened to be Mother’s Day:) I’ve always said she was my first and most painful gift that I wouldn’t change for anything.” - Nicki
Q. What’s the best Mother’s Day gift you’ve ever received? “My son made me a hand painted picture and he told his nana why he loved me and she wrote it on the picture. He was 4 iand is 10 now, it is framed in our living room!” - Lesley “My husband and son, Milo, made me breakfast in bed and presented me with a short movie of pictures and videos of our family. They had me sobbing before 7 am! The movie is now a tradition.” - Kelly
Animal Cookie Decorating Bowling Green resident, wife and mom to three kids, Tunde Dugantsi has published a step by step guide on decorating animal cookies. A native of Hungary, Tunde has launched a business creating unique decorated cookies that make elegant gifts or party treats. Bowling Green Parent Magazine readers can order the book directly from Createspace: https://www.createspace.com/4213418 and get a 20% discount with coupon code JZEFM9Z5.
Lost River Cave to Open Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom Lost River Cave and Monticello Banking Company are pleased to invite your family to the grand opening of the Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom on May 18 from 1-4pm! Designed for children ages 2-12 with adult supervision, the Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom is a dynamic, nature-scape for playing and learning. “The Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom is an opportunity for kids to build a tree fort, unearth an earthworm, meet a bee and make friends with nature.” explains Rho Lansden, the Executive Director at Lost River Cave. The new classroom will provide a fenced-in space for children to “unplug” and gain a hands-on appreciation for nature and the natural world. Features include a performance space, a “messy materials” section, art studio, climbing and cave crawling, a music and movement station and more. The grand opening is free and open to the entire community. The ribbon will be ‘cut’ by every child in attendance at 1pm. There will be snacks, live music and an array of fun hands-on activities.
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Farmers National Bank Kids with Class
Jordan Centers is an 8th grader at James E. Bazzell Middle School in Scottsville. Jordan is an extraordinarily gifted musician and aspiring producer/engineer. His guitar, voice, and drum talents have garnered numerous first place awards in both presentation and competitive divisions of juried recitals, first place in Allen and Warren County “Battle Of The Bands,” recording and live credentials with country/hip-hop artists “Twang & Round”, and most recently placed 3rd in the state in the Junior Beta Special Talent competition in Louisville. He has lent his time and talents in numerous school and civic events and is finding his footing as a producer/engineer by helping develop the talents of his peers in his home recording studio. Jordan is the son of Joanie and Jeff Centers. < Maddie Hayes is an 18-yearold Bowling Green High School senior. Maddie had the unique opportunity to go to Hollywood with American Idol. Her
performance experience includes dancing at Dance Images and several school theater productions. She has been involved in choir since junior high and has been in the Acapella (honors) choir for three years. She is also in the Aca Purple choir. Maddie is an honor student who plans to be a member of the Honors Program at University of North Florida studying Coastal Biology this fall. Maddie is active in her church. Her parents are Joey and Paulita Hayes. < Jannah Bolin is a seventh grader at Drake’s Creek Middle School who has been an honor roll student her entire scholastic career. She is a Duke Talent Search nominee. Jannah’s former principal says, “ Jannah is a strong role model for her peers. Traits that come to mind are kind, caring and positive with all students and adults.” Jannah is very musically talented, singing and playing the piano. She wrote the lyrics to a school song as well as lyrics to a 7 Habits Song. She has been asked to share her musical talents in many venues. Jannah is the daughter of Ann and Jason Bolin. <
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Caleb Bergamini is a home schooled sophomore who has excelled in scouting. Caleb made Eagle in a little over three years. He has participated in dozens of service projects for the community totaling to hundreds of hours. He lead a group of fourteen scouts and men in his Eagle Scout project to clean out a half-acre plot of woods so a church could build an amphitheater on the site. Caleb has served in multiple leadership positions in his troop, currently as Senior Patrol Leader. In addition to his Eagle Scout he has been awarded some Eagle palms. These are awards to recognize achievements beyond that of Eagle Scout; he has earned two, making him the first in his troop to ever do so. Caleb is the son of Dr. David and Tammy Bergamini. < Raymond Smith is an 18 year old senior at Warren Cemtra; High School with lots of energy and school spirit. He supports his school and community by serving on the student council, as president bowling green
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Ready to Grow, Ready to Learn In Kentucky, school readiness means that each child enters school ready to engage in and benefit from early learning experiences that best promote the child’s success. Families, early care and education providers, school staff, and community partners must work together to provide environments and developmental experiences that promote growth and learning to ensure that all children in Kentucky enter school eager and excited to learn. The purpose of this definition is to give parents, child care and preschool providers, and communities an overview of the expectations of primary schools for incoming students and provide guidance to families and communities on how to prepare children for school. These indicators represent the hopes and aspirations for incoming students, not the expectations. Children develop at different rates, not every child will have mastered all of the skills and behaviors listed below at the beginning of a primary program.
of FCCLA, as a state officer of FCCLA, on the WCSH YSC Advisory Council, STLP, yearbook and the Save Our Kids Coalition. Raymond also works two jobs. His attitude and outlook on life is very positive. Raymond served as a Legislative Page during Family Resource Youth Service Day. < Emily Pruitt is an 11 year old fifth grader at Richpond Elementary School who has won academic awards in both math and reading. She has a level one black belt in Tae Kwan Do and is active in both ballet and tap dancing. She had a small part in a theatrical production at Capital Arts. However, her main interest is in helping others. She and her mother raised money for, and had their hair cut for Locks of Love at her school in front of the entire student body. The first year, they were the only participants. Last year, they had several other girls who were involved. Emily’s hair has been cut four times for Locks for Love. She also runs a lemonade stand every year for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Cancer Fund. This year, during spring break, Emily will be traveling to
Health and Physical Well-Being • Eats a balanced diet • Gets plenty of rest • Receives regular medical and dental care • Has had all necessary immunizations • Can run, jump, climb, and does other activities that help develop large muscles and provide exercise • Uses pencils, crayons, scissors, and paints and does other activities that help develop small muscles Emotional and Social Preparation • Follows simple rules and routines • Is able to express his or her own needs and wants • Is curious and motivated to learn • Is learning to explore and try new things • Has many opportunities to be with other children and is learning to play and share with others • Is able to be away from parents/family without being upset • Is able to work well alone • Has the ability to focus and listen Language, Math and General Knowledge • Uses 5-6 word sentences
Costa Rica on a mission trip to help children that live in an orphanage there. Emily is the daughter of Matt and Sarah Pruitt.< Ellie Trosper is a fifth grade at McNeill Elementary School where she is president of her class. She is on the School Leadership Team and has been selected to speak at Leader in Me activities. At school she also participates in Project Challenge and Duke TIP program. Ellie is a Girl Scout, plays volleyball and does gymnastics. She volunteers at school with autistic children and works as a mentor. Ellie, daughter of Annie Trosper and Ollie Trosper, has learned to give at a young age. Katie Bradley is a seventh grader at Bowling Green Junior High School where she is on the Youth Advisory Council. Katie cheers for the football and basketball team at BGJHS and plays JV tennis at BGHS. Katie’s volunteer efforts
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• Sings simple songs • Recognizes and says simple rhymes • Is learning to write her name and address • Is learning to count and plays counting games • Is learning to identify and name shapes and colors • Has opportunities to listen to and make music and to dance • Knows the difference between print and pictures • Listens to stories read to them • Has opportunities to notice similarities and differences • Is encouraged to ask questions • Has his television viewing monitored by an adult • Understands simple concepts of time (night and day, today, yesterday, tomorrow) • Is learning to sort and classify objects *These school readiness skills and behaviors are not to be used to determine school eligibility; all children who meet the legal age requirement are entitled to public school. <
About the author; The Community Early Childhood Council (CECC) contacts are: Allen Logan SimpsonKenna Richardson 270-5862007, Warren- Sherri Meyer 270-745-2216.
include work for the Ronald McDonald house where she makes inspirational cards decorative posters for the parent’s doors and baked goods. She is the daughter of Chris and Liz Bradley. Tianna Poole is a 17 year old senior at Warren Central High School. She is a member of the WCHS YSC Advisory Council and WCHS Band. But, Tia and her mother, Catrina are known for their generosity to others. They are hard-core coupon-clippers who use their talents to save money, make purchases for others and then donate those purchases to the Warren Central Youth Service Center where they can be distributed to people in need. Kids with Class are youth in our community who go beyond the norm by being great leaders, citizens, athletes, musicians or scholars and also share their time and talent through projects, volunteer efforts, youth groups, clubs and/or organizations. The kids featured on these pages were nominated by teachers, parents and others in the community. <
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Let’s Go To Camp Summer Fun
Hot summer nights, bee stings, band-aids, dirt rivers snaking down little arms, and small popsicle stick art projects. When you mix all of that with friendships, new experiences, and independence, it helps you to understand why summer camp leaves lasting impressions on kids. School will be out soon, leaving us parents with the very real concern for day care, as well as mental and physical stimulation for our youngsters. We know it isn’t good for our children to spend the summer inside, watching tv and playing video games. What’s the answer? I decided to go straight to the source on this one. What do kids think makes for a perfect summer day? “4 square games, good books, playing outside until it’s too dark to see!” - Caroline, age 9 “Basketball, ice cream cones, jumping in the lake!” Caleb, age 6 “Swimming, friends, building snap circuits and making potions!” - Elijah, age 7 You can see that kids all have different interests and needs. Summer camps, both day and overnight, provide opportunities to fulfill those differences. Your job is to find the right match from all the great summer choices!
We parents want our children to be happy, safe, and to have fun during the summer (at an affordable price). Bowling Green Parent can help with that. There is a large Summer Camp Guide under the Resources tab at www.bgparent.com. You will find a wide range of summer opportunities available right here in the Bowling Green area! Creative kids have a wide range of art, music, dance and drama day camps. Do you have an athlete in the family? WKU, many high schools, athletic clubs and the public recreation areas hold camps for different sports, cheerleading and gymnastics. The Center for Courageous Kids offers a plethora of programs for children with special needs. Want to fly an airplane? The airport has camps for that! The Center for Gifted Studies at WKU is known internationally for its summer opportunities for children of all ages. And don’t forget Camp Loucon! Summer provides children with the chance to focus on and learn about things they don’t always get to do during the school year. Camps and day enrichment programs offer children the perfect opportunity to meet new friends, gain new experiences, and develop their own unique talents. So talk it over with your kids and consider giving summer camp a try! <
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Pictured: Campers at Loucon in nearby Leitchfield enjoy clowning around.
About the author: Allison Bennett served nearly 10 years in education as a teacher and consultant before becoming a stay at home mother. She is proud to be called mom by two precious little boys, Elijah and Jonah. Among Allison’s favorite things are reading, writing, and listening to some good ‘ole fashion vinyl records with her husband, Daniel.
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Area Summer Camps Art Matters Summer Camp. Weekly based sessions with professional grade materials. Offering sessions in painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and so much more. There will be fun, music, games, books and water play. Art Matters offers small groups and individual attention. See camp descriptions and sign up at www.artmatterscommunitystudiogallery.com or call Teresa at 270-781-0361. BG OnStage Triple Threat Summer Camp, Directed by: Elise Iannuzzi. June 17 - 21 Ages 8 - 18 9am 5pm. Sing, dance and act your way towards being a TRIPLE THREAT!Visit bgonstage.org or call 270779-2185 for more info. Bob Pitchford Aviation Summer Camp & Jim Bohannon III Aviation Summer Camp, July 8-9 | July 10-11, Bowling Green/Warren County Regional Airport, 270-842-1101 | www.bgwcairport.org Students ages 10-15 will take part in learning aircraft instruments, engine & aircraft design, use of aeronautical maps, navigation, flight planning, weather, careers, communications, glider competition, practicing take=offs & landings on a flight simulator and the students will actually assist in flying a Cessna 172 with an FAA Certified Flight Instructor. * Financial Aid: Please call Tara Morgan, Airport Operations Assistant at 270-842-1101 if you require financial aid in order for your son/daughter to attend aviation camp. Some assistance may be available. If you would like to sponsor a student who cannot afford camp, send a check for $269 marked ‘scholarship’ to the BG/WC Airport. Camp Loucon, (2nd-12th grade), Leitchfield, KY. Variety of camps offered throughout the summer, varying in age, price and length. Activities including zipline, teambuilding, swimming, rappelling, low elements, high ropes, hayrides, environmental education, climbing, canoeing, campfires, daily worship, Bible studies and more while nurturing
a relationship to God through Jesus Christ. www. loucon.org/camps.php Chef Camp, May 27-31, South Central Ky Community & Technical College, 8:30am-1pm, Ages 8-12, $150. A week of cooking, sanitation & safety in the kitchen. Foundational cooking skills will be emphasized. Each camper must wear long pants (no shorts allowed) and closed-toe shoes (example: tennis shoes). Each camper will be provided with a Chef Camp 2013 T-Shirt. Lunch will be provided. 270901-1035, www.bowlinggreen.kctcs.edu Community Education Summer Programs, May 28-July 30, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., M-F. Super Summer Club (K-2), Eagle ROC (3-5) and Youth Activities Program (6-8) – grades completed as of May 2013. 270-842-4281, www.commed.us. Safe, engaging summer programs that, via fun activities (classes, field trips, swimming, etc.), enrich developmental areas including academics, self/social awareness, creative expression, physical development, cognitive expansion and recreational pursuits. Dance Arts Dance Camp, June 17-21, 9am-5pm (early drop off 8am, late pick up 6pm), Register at the studio May 13-14 or call 270-842-6811. Rich Pond Baptist Church Sports Camp VBS, June 23-27, age 3 - 6th grade, 6-8:30pm. Register at www. richpond.org. 270-842-2593 SKY Soccer Summer Camps & Night Games, Halfday camp (ages 3-11), Middle School Friday Night open games, Summer Showdown games (U8-U13), Strikers and Keepers Clinic, Competitive Pre-Season Training Camp. Additional details, dates, ages and prices: www.skysoccer.org or 270-846-1010. Summer Camp for Academically Talented Students (6th- 8th grade), WKU. Jun. 9-21, 2013. Class offerings in a wide range of topics from humanities
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to math & science. $1,800 residential (includes all activities, meals, housing), $900 non-residential (includes activities, weekday lunches, dinner and dance on last Thursday). First come, first serve. www. wku.edu/gifted Summer Program for Verbally and Mathematically Precocious Youth (7th-10th grade), WKU. Jun. 23Jul. 13, 2013. In-depth study of one topic. $2,400 (includes all activities, meals and housing). www.wku. edu/gifted Sunburst Youth Theatre’s Shakespeare Day Camp 2013, June 3-14, Public Theatre of Kentucky, Ages 7-14, $85/week, 270-781-6233, www.ptkbg. org Students do scenic painting, sound, lighting, costuming and act in a play while building confidence, learning teamwork, exercising creativity, and having fun! The Summer Camp, July 15-19, 9am-2pm, WKU, 1st-4th grade. Math, science, art & theatre. $300. www.wku.edu/gifted Vette Camp, June 17-21, National Corvette Museum, 8am-4:30pm, K-5th grade, $150. Hooked on Science presents a variety of hands-on activities in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. Each participant will get to ride in a Corvette. 270-4678852 or www.corvettemuseum.org Warren County 4-H Camp, July 9-12, West Kentucky 4-H Camp. Open to all boys and girls ages of 9-14 years old. Cost is $180. For more information contact Julie Brown at 842-1681. Xclaim! Unique Performances for Youth - www. xclaiminc.com - Musical theatre classes (acting, dance & voice), summer camps (Acting June 3-7 and Musical Theatre June 10-14), summer youth musical The Wizard of Oz. Executive Director: Christopher H. Cherry, (502) 708-5739, info@xclaiminc.com. <
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The Buddy House: You’ve Got a Friend Nothing is more exciting to a family than the anticipation of a new baby… unless the doctor tells you that your child will have a disability, coloring the anticipation with worry and, perhaps, dread. Most devastating illnesses have facilities and large support networks nearby to help families gather strength and answers as you face your new challenge. With the closest facility located in Louisville, that hasn’t been the case with Down syndrome (DS)… until now. Bowling Green’s own support facility, the Buddy House, located at 522 State St., opened on World Down Syndrome Day. The date, 3/21, is itself symbolic, being the 21st day of the 3rd month, selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes DS. The Buddy House was built by Down Syndrome of South Central Kentucky, a non-profit organization that extends its outreach into Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Logan, Simpson and Warren counties. The group is made up of people affected by DS and governed by an elected board of directors and a community advisory board who have been
fund raising for five years with the express purpose of carrying out their mission- to enhance the quality of life for individuals with DS and their families. Board member and director of The Buddy House Jane Tichenor explains, “The Buddy House is a free continuing education and learning center for individuals with DS from prenatal diagnosis… mothers who just found out they are bearing a child with DS… to adulthood.” Tichenor continued, “Early intervention is an essential component in the education of any at-risk child. There are many agencies providing that service. We see The Buddy House as a place to support this jumpstart on the learning process. We will design
About the contributor: Jane Tichenor is a wife, an educator, and the mother of a 26 year-year-old Down syndrome “Beautiful, Capable, and Loved” daughter. Jane is a board member and the director of The Buddy House located at 522 State St., Bowling Green. Visit dssky.org/the-buddy-house for more info.
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programs to supplement traditional education and help strengthen the learning potential for children with DS.” The Buddy House won’t just focus on preschool and school age children, but adults as well. There are many benefits to reinforcing functional literacy and math, vocational and daily living skills along with teaching new skills to adults with DS. “All our classes and activities will be led by volunteers from WKU and educators in south central KY,” said Tichenor. The Buddy House will be a place for informational and support meetings for families and also be a center for fun activities and social events. Tichenor added, “Life should not end after high school. <
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Places to Swim & Lessons Russell Sims Aquatic Center 2303 Tomblinson Way, Bowling Green 270-393-3271 | www.bgky.org/bgpr/aquatics Cost: Adult (16+) $8, Youth (6-15) $5, Child (3-5) $4, Baby (2 years and Under) $2, Senior (55+) $5 College Student (with valid ID) $6, Twilight (after 4 p.m.) 1/2 price. Hours: Vary. Visit website for schedule Warren County Aquatics Facility 303 Lovers Lane, Bowling Green | 270-467-0583 warrencountygov.com/departments/Parks-Recreation Cost: Infants (2 years and under) – Free, (Children 4 years and under must wear a swim diaper), Youth (317 Years) – $5, Adults ( 18-49 Years) – $6.00, Seniors (50+) – $4. Memberships available. Hours: Open Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri 7am-7pm, Sat. Noon-5pm Barren River Lake Beach 1149 State Park Road, Lucas, KY 270-646-2151 | parks.ky.gov/findparks/resortparks/br/ Cost: free. Hours: Open 9am-5pm Beech Bend Park & Splash Lagoon 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green 270-781-7634 | beechbend.com/amusementpark.htm Cost: $29.99 adults, $25.99 children and seniors. Hours: Vary by day. Visit website for schedule.
Baymont Inn: Indoor and outdoor pools 250 Cumberland Trace Road, Bowling Green 270-782-3800 | Cost: $75 up to 12 people, 3 hours, $5 each addtl’ person. Available on Sat. and Sun. KOA 1960 Three Springs Road, Bowling Green 270-843-1919 | www.bgkoa.com Cost: $1 per hour, per person. Hours: 10am-4pm Quality Inn 1919 Mel Browning Street, Bowling Green 270-846-4588 | Cost: $5 per person. Hours: Indoor pool open 10am to 10pm Circus Square Park | 601 State Street downtown Fun for splashing in the fountains. Membership Based Pools Southland 270-782-3106 | southlandfamilyclub.com Indian Hills 270-842-0041 | indianhills-bgky.com Bowling Green Country Club 270-842-0325 | bgcc1913.com
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The Club at Olde Stone 270-393-GOLF | olde-stone.com Swimming Lessons Little Dipper Swim Lessons at BGHS. Ages 2-12. 6-week program with 12 lessons (2 per week), meet Mon-Thurs. Contact: Coach Dee Wilkins at 270-7793658 www.skyswimming.com/Home.jsp?team=kysksc Bowling Green Parks & Recreation Swim Lesson Held at BGHS in June and July for ages 3 and up. Call for dates, times and prices: 270-393-3249 Warren County Aquatic Facility Swim Lessons Five week sessions, 45 min per session, two students to one instructor, Price: $80.00. Lessons conducted Sat 12-5pm. Contact 270-467-0583. WKU Learn to Swim (& Swim Better) Program offered each April.<
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area events & activities May 2013
May 17 WWE World Tour Supershow, Diddle Arena, 7:30pm, www.ticketmaster.com May 17-18 Stucky Music Festival, Park Mammoth Resort, 25 bands in a two-day camping music fest, concerts begin Fri. at 5pm and resume Sat. at 11 am, ticket prices vary and start at $20, 40% of proceeds benefit the Son Rhea Foundation, stuckyfest.com
Curry elementary schools will be participating in a summer feeding program, which offers free breakfast and lunch to any child age 18 and under. June 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, July1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29 Farm Tours, Chaney’s Dairy Barn, 1pm only, $8 includes scoop of ice cream, must be booked in advance, 270-843-5567 June 4-9 400 Mile Yard Sale, along highway 68, more than 60 communities, www.400mile.com June 5, 12, 19, 26 Concert in the Park lunchtime concerts, Fountain Square Park, 11:30am-1pm, bring a lawn chair and blankets, 270-782-0222, facebook. com/pages/Concerts-in-the-Park-by-Downtown-BGand-BBT
May 1 Victorian Skills for Young Ladies and Gentlemen Workshop: Felt Flower Bouquet, Riverview at Hobson Grove, 3:30pm, learn basic skills with felt to make clothing and a special Mother’s Day gift, kids ages 8-12, $5 each, 843-5565, bgky.org/ riverview
June 6 Dig into Reading Kickoff Event, Lost River Cave, 10am-12pm, 781-4882, warrenpl.org/SummerReading.html
May 2 Little Texas with Lyndsey Highlander, Capitol Arts Center, 7:30pm, 270-904-1880, theskypac.com
May 17-18 16th Annual BB&T All-American Soap Box Derby Race, Phil Moore Park, ages 7-17, registration fee, 270-791-7953, bgkiwanis.org
May 10-11 Highway 240 Yard Sale, Boyce Community, 270-842-6687
May 18 Ice Cream Supper and Cake Walk, Boyce Community Center, 5pm, hamburgers, hotdogs, and meeting friends, bring items for the cake walk, 270842-6667
May 10-11 Pedal for the Park, Mammoth Cave National Park, ride several paths at the cave, registration Fri 5-6pm, pasta dinner 5:307:30pm, rides begin Sat 8am, 270-597-7604, friendsofmammothcave.org May 11, Mother Daughter Tea, 3pm, Medical Center Auditorium, $8 per person, pre-registration required, 270-745-1010. May 11, June 8, July 13 Second Saturdays Festival, Downtown at Fountain Square Park, 10am-5pm, Cruisin for a Cure kicks off the festival, free to the public, live music, business specials and “Craftsman Village,” 270-782-0222, http://www.facebook.com/ SecondSaturdaysBG May 12 Mom’s free on Mother’s Day, Dinosaur World & Corvette Museum, mom receives free admission with a fully paid child admission, 270773-4345, dinosaurworld.com | 270-781-7973, corvettemuseum.org May 12 Mother’s Day Buffet, 440/Micki’s on Main, 11am-2pm, adults $19.95, kids 5-10 $10.95, kids 4 & under free, 270-793-0450, 440main.com May 16-19 “A Southern Exposure,” Fountain Square Players, Phoenix Theater, Thur-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm, 270-782-3119, fountainsquareplayers.org page
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June 6, 11 Babysitting Class, Medical Center, 9am2pm, Boys and girls ages 11 to 17 learn about safety, emergency situations and tips for caring for kids of all ages. The $20 fee includes a T-shirt, course materials and lunch. Prepayment and registration required; class size is limited. June 7 Bowling Green Gallery Hop, various galleries around town, 5-8pm, thebowlinggreengalleryhop.com
May 18 Kid’s Ribbon Cutting at the Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom, Lost River Cave, 1-4pm, free, snacks, live music and hands-on activities celebrating the grand opening of this kid-oriented space, 3930077, lostrivercave.com May 18, 25, July 20, 27 Junior Naturalist Program, Lost River Cave, pre-registration required, 270-3930077, www.lostrivercave.com May 18 The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion, SKyPAC, 7:30 pm, 270-904-1880, theskypac.com May 31 Motown In Motion: A Great American Musical Extravaganza, SKyPAC, 7:30 pm, 270-9041880, theskypac.com
June 7-8 Ice Cream & a Moovie, Chaney’s Dairy Barn, movie starts at dusk, chaneysdairybarn.com
May 31- June 2 Glasgow Highland Games, Barren River Lake State Resort Park, celebration of Scottish culture and heritage, 270-651-3141, glasgowhighlandgames.com
June 9 Geocaching.com: How to use it, Lost River Cave, 2-4pm, participants learn to set up a username, search for caches and log their adventures, no registration required, 393-0077, lostrivercave.com
June 2013
June 14 Summer Soulfest, Bowling Green Ballpark, 7:30pm, 846-2426, orchestrakentucky.com
June 1 The Caveman Chorus presents “American Bandstand,” featuring Forefront, Van Meter Hall, 270-799-2020, cavemanchorus.org June 3 - July 26 T.C. Cherry and Parker-Bennettmay / june / july 2013
June 15 Aviation Heritage Park Hangar Party, BG/WC Regional Airport, unveiling the F-111 War Horse, aviationheritagepark.com bowling green
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July 5, 12, 19, 26 34th Annual Concerts in the Park Series, Fountain Square Park concerts 5:308:30pm, Circus Square Park concerts continue the entertainment from 8:30-11pm, free, bring blankets or chairs, 270-782-0222, facebook.com/pages/ Concerts-in-the-Park-by-Downtown-BG-and-BBT
June 22 13th Annual Garden Tour & Tea, presented by South Central Kentucky Kids on the Block, garden site visits 10am-2pm, tea lunch 1-3pm, 270-8422259, http://www.kykob.org June 22 One of These Nights: A Tribute to the Eagles, LT Smith Stadium, 7:30pm, 846-2426, orchestrakentucky.com June 27-28 Corvette 60th Anniversary, National Corvette Museum, celebrating the June 30, 1953 birthday of America’s iconic sports car, 270-781-7973, corvettemuseum.org June 27-30 “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”, Fountain Square Players, Phoenix Theater, Thur-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm, 270-782-3119, fountainsquareplayers.org June 29 SKyPAC “Sounds of Independence” presented by Independence Bank, a music festival held at Circus Square Park & SKyPAC, 270-904-5000
July 12-13 17th Annual Duncan Hines Festival, downtown BG, Duck Derby, Baking contest, duncanhinesfestival.com July 13 Kentucky Fried Concert, part of the Orchestra Kentucky Retro Series, SKyPAC, 7:30pm, feat The Rewinders and Retro Singers for a trip through the best of Southern and classic rock, 270846-2426, orchestrakentucky.com July 20 “First Class Passenger” Breakfast, South Union Shaker Village, 10am, reservations required, $15 members/$17 non-members, enjoy a first-class breakfast circa 1912, 270-542-4167, shakermuseum. com July 21-17 SOKY Fair, Southern Kentucky Fairgrounds at Lampkin Park, 270-842-7980, sokyfair.org July 25-27 32nd National Corvette Homecoming, Sloan Convention Center, 270-791-2117, corvettehomecoming.com
July 2013 July 3 Thunderfest Independence Day Celebration, National Corvette Museum Amphitheater, bgkiwanis.org/thunderfest July 4 Barren River Lake 4th of July Celebration, Barren River Lake State Resort Park, 10am-dark, crafts, games, fireworks display, annual Float Your Boat contest, 1-800-325-0057, ky.parks.gov July 4-6 Peach Festival, Jackson’s Orchard, peaches, summer apples, ice cream, children’s activities, 270781-5303, www.jacksonsorchard.com
Smiths Grove Branch Too Cool Activity Hour (grades K-5) Tue. 3pm Preschool Storytime (age 3-5) Wed. 10:30am Teen Library Club (grades 6-12), Thurs. 5pm
Main Library Toddler Time (18-36mos.) Mon. 10:30am, Tue. 9:30am Preschool Storytime (age 3-5) Thur. & Fri. 10:30am Preschool Spanish (age 3-5) Tue. 10:30am Spanish Explorers (grades K-6) Tue. 4pm Peek-a-Boo Babies (6-18mos.) Fri. 9:30am Ky Youth Drama Society (grades 5-12) Wed. 4pm Kirby Branch Toddler Time (18-36mos.) Mon. 10am Kirby Kids (grades K-6) Mon. 3:30pm Kirby Babies (6-18mos.) Wed. 10am Preschool Storytime (age 3-5) Wed. & Fri. 11am Preschool Spanish (age 3-5) Fri. 10am Free Offerings from The Medical Center Preparing and Caring for Baby, Classes offered by The Medical Center. Info and registration at 270-796-2495 or themedicalcenter.org A New Baby’s Coming (May 6, Jun 13, Jul. 1) 6-8pm Breast is Best (May 13, Jul. 8) 6-8pm C-Section Class (May 21, Jul. 23) 6-8pm Fatherhood 101 (May 21, Jul. 23) 7pm, Classroom 2 Grandparents Class (June 4, July 30) 6-8pm Newborn Care & Safety Class May 7, 23, June 6, 18, Jul. 2, 25, 6pm, Chandler Nutrition During Pregnancy (May 21) 5:30-6:30pm Prepared Childbirth Classes Five Week Series (Tuesdays beginning May 14 or Jul. 9), 6pm One-Night Refresher (May 28, Jul. 16) 6pm One-Day (May 18, June 22, July 20) 9am-1pm Ready, Set, Go! (June 3, July 15) 6-8pm Twins or More (May 8) 6-8pm
Note: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, all information is subject to change. Please call ahead to verify dates, times and schedules!
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Free Activities at Warren Co. Public Library
Graham Drive Afterschool Activities (all ages) Mac Lab Tues. 3-5pm Graham Troopers (School-Age) Wed. 3:30pm Teen Tuesdays (grades 6-12) Tues. 4pm
June 15 Cruising to the Community Center, Boyce Community Center, 12pm, an afternoon of fun with a cookout, antique and unique cars and DJ playing oldies, 270-842-6667 June 16 Dad’s free on Father’s Day, Dinosaur World & Corvette Museum, dad receives free admission with a fully paid child admission, 270-773-4345, dinosaurworld.com | 270-781-7973, corvettemuseum. org
Educational Offerings
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It’s a Super Mario Party! After our son’s stressful previous last minute birthday, planning ahead has become my goal! Coming up with a theme was no problem when I overheard my son insist that his aunt play his favorite game, Mario Kart! Why not? Who wouldn’t love a Mario party? After deciding the theme, I went straight to Pinterest. It helps me indulge in all of my party planning desires and gauge what I can actually pull off myself. I found an adorable handmade invitation complete with toadstool pull-out for vital information! The décor is quite simple: primary colors all around, sets of two Styrofoam bowls painted as goombas, gold coins dangling from the ceiling (with fishing line) and piranha plants. For a snack, the kids can munch on string cheese topped with a slice of pepperoni and drink some power-up punch! Cupcakes are a necessity for any kid’s party, and I found two options: the simple red and green toadstools or a pull apart pixilated Mario cake. James and his friends might not recognize the original Mario, but I love the nostalgic look. After all the sugar, a bit of fun with pin the mustache on Mario, Mario match game and bust the mystery box. The piñata, a cardboard box cleverly disguised, is much more budget-friendly than the ones in stores. So no one goes home empty handed, guests can fill up their power packs with fire balls, power stars, Mario mustaches, Princess Peach rings, gold
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coins and Yoshi’s eggs from the piranha plant bowls. James is excited and can’t wait for the game to begin! Check the Bowling Green Parent webpage at: bgparent.com/ super-mario-birthday for more Super Mario birthday party ideas and pictures.<
About the author: Brittany Fisher has a love for planning anything and everything leading her to a career as an Urban Planner in Elizabethtown. Brittany is from Scottsville, graduated from WKU and more recently from U of L. (Don’t hold that against her. She swears she’ll never be a Cards fan!). She and her husband are blessed with an energetic and precocious son. The family also strives for thriftiness whenever possible.
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It’s a Balancing Act: Bike BG Backpedal three decades. My first goal was to crawl, then stand upright. I barely had time to toddle my way to my parents when life threw me a curve ball named Huffy. Really? Me pilot a two-wheeled contraption in a semi-straight line without toppling over or running into something? Wobble proof wheels made sure no more than knees were demolished. The first time I rode one of those two wheeled inventions (four with the trainers) I ran straight into my swing set. No wonder I’ve stuck to being a hiker and left the cycling to those who avoided the swing set the first go round. Cycling has a rabid following and it’s easy to see why; the feel of the wind in the face and the endorphin rush at day’s end. The healthy lifestyle it fosters. A family friendly activity. Sunshine for both soul and body. Bowling Green has become biker friendly, with greenway trails sprawled all over town. So this spring, it’s a great idea to get the bikes out of the garage and right in the midst of things. And bring the kids! One BG family that’s doing this with enthusiasm is Jeff and Stacey Rose, who met riding bikes while attending WKU and are still cycling as a family years later. They even named their first child Chaney! Get it?
Chain! Jeff qualified and participated in the National Road Race Championship in New York, and holds the state record for crossing Kentucky, pedaling 213 miles in just under 13 hours. But before you try to position your little one to tackle his record, Jeff says to start slow. “Just ride and have fun,” he says. “Start with a simple bike. No gears, or hand brakes. And work more on encouragement and less on instruction.” He says to ride like you’re invisible in traffic, as if the cars can’t see you regardless of how bright your clothes are. And ride with the direction of the cars when on the road. His wife, Stacey, makes sure that the entire family gets to share their passion, including their youngest, Trinity, and their middle daughter Annalee, who has special needs and rides along, smiling in a cart the whole way. For Stacey, it’s not as much about records and races as it is about the intangibles. “When we ride,” she says, “there is always something we see or do that makes a memory.” And that, alone, is worth another day spent with dear Huffy. For greenways in Bowling Green, visit http://www. warrenpc.org/greenways/. <
About the author: Outdoorsman Cory Ramsey is the Kentucky Adventure Representative for the State Tourism Department and has been a contributor to WBKO Midday Live since 2009. He is the uncle to a three-yearold named Braxton. Visit his website at www.coryramseyoutdoors.com.
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Pictured: Jeff Rose with daughters Annalee and Trinity. Photo by Stacey Rose.
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Area FIREWORKS
Fourth of July Fun Celebrate Safety
<The BG City Ordinance about the use of fireworks reads (in part): Fireworks may only be used between the hours of noon and Fireworks can be a fun source of awe and entertainment, but if not handled with care and respect, 10:00pm on June 27th through July 3rd and on July 5th; and they can cause serious injury and death. More than 9,000 fireworks related injuries were reported between the hours of noon and 11:00pm on July 4th. Any person in the U.S. during the 2011 Fourth of July season. Here are a few tips that will help your family wishing to use fireworks on any other days must obtain a Special enjoy fireworks safely. Discharge Permit from the City Fire Dept. • Maintain adult supervision at all times. Fireworks are not toys and should not be handled by smaller children. Even sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees, hot enough to melt gold. <Thunderfest is taking place on July 3rd at the National • Always aim fireworks away from other people and any structures, dry grass or other flammable Corvette Museum Ampitheatre in Bowling Green. Gates open at substances. Never point fireworks at someone else or hold lit fireworks. 4 p.m. with admission to the event a flat $20/carload. There is an • Light fireworks one at a time and never try to relight a dud. Wait 20 minutes and soak it in additional fee for the children’s activities, such as the inflatables. water. Music, provided by Tyrone Dunn and Kin-Foke will begin at 6 • Keep water handy while shooting fireworks in case they start a fire. p.m. and continue until the fireworks which will start 20 minutes • Soak spent fireworks with water before putting them in a trashcan. after dark. Music will continue for one hour after the fireworks. • Think about your pets. Fireworks can frighten and stress pets. Consider keeping them indoors. Proceeds from the event go to local children’s organizations. • Have a designated shooter to organize and run your family show. • Pay attention to local laws. When in doubt, <Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Mammoth Cave is also hosting a enjoy fireworks shows performed by professionals.< fireworks display on July 3.
About the author: Bob Skipper, a volunteer firefighter for more than 25 years, is chief of the Woodburn Volunteer Fire Department. He also serves as Director of Media Relations at WKU. He and wife, Kim, have two sons.
<The Barren River Lake State Resort Park will have a fireworks display on July 4th at sunset. <The Bowling Green Hot Rods will host several fireworks displays after their games at the ballpark, which start at 7:05 p.m. They will be on April 27. May 11 and 25, June 1 and 22, July 1, 3 and 20.
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Feel Yummy: Lend a HAND New moms have a lot on their plate, and they don’t always ask for help. Here are some things that you can offer to do to help her out! < Offer to babysit. Even a quick run to the grocery can take more than twice as long when toting a baby. Help mom maximize her time by offering to watch the baby for awhile. < Be in charge of birth announcements. Offer to stuff, stamp and address all of the envelopes. < Explore the great outdoors. Take the baby out for a relaxing stroll while Mom grabs a shower or quick nap. < Keep it clean. Help out around the house by doing laundry, vacuuming, putting away dishes, etc. < Run errands. Offer to go to the grocery store, dry cleaner, etc. While you’re out, pick up some diapers, wipes or other baby essentials. < Get cooking. Help Mom keep her energy up by preparing some nutritious and delicious meals.
YUMMY MOMMY Hair Hangovers: Morning after Hair When you have one of those late nights leading to a dreaded “drag your body out of bed” morning, use these tips to beat that morning-after hair. Before you hit the bed, if dread of hair hangovers is making you lose sleep, then pile those locks on top of your head and you will be frizz free in the am. No time for washing? Never fear up do’s actually do better the morning after. Gather your hair at the nape and twist upward toward the crown. Slip a few bobby pins in the sides and off to work you go. Nice Body! Can’t locate a brush? Flip your head over, tousle roots and locks with your fingers- voila! Instant volume. Grab a comb, smooth your bangs, and then tease the back of your hair.
Look Yummy: PHOTO Fab Want to look your best in photos? Here are a few tips! < Wear bright colors. Black appears flat and white reflects too much light. < Put on a touch more eye makeup and lipstick. Wear just a little more than your daily routine calls for, but don’t go overboard. < Stretch your chin slightly forward. This will minimize a double chin and having good posture makes you appear thinner.
Be Yummy: SKIN Soother Rid yourself of dry, itchy skin with this homemade skin soother. Oatmeal & Honey Skin Soother < 1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal < 1/4 cup powdered milk < 3 tbs. honey Mix ingredients together and put in a warm tub. Sit back, relax and soak!
Bonjour Brigitte Bardot! Has the bounce left your hair overnight leaving your hair clinging to your scalp? Heated rollers can bring new life in no time at all. Just pop them in while you enjoy your morning espresso, brush the cooled hair briefly and spray with a light working spray. You’re done! Last but not least- the granddaddy of all problems. Your hair still looks good but there’s an oil crisis near your roots. Relax, shampooing About the author: Tammy York is is not the only option. Instead work an a hairdresser at Sun Suites with 12 alcohol containing mousse firmly into years experience. She is a Redken your scalp then blow dry it a little. The color specialist, certified in Platinum alcohol in the mousse will dry out the oil Seamless Extensions. In her quest ever so slightly. to become the best hairstylist she Another solution involves gently can be, she has traveled to Chicago, massaging baby or body powder onto New York, Orlando, and Ft. the scalp with both hands. But be sure to Lauderdale to further her education brush your hair well afterwards to remove and learn the latest in cutting edge styles. the greyish powder residue! <
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It’s Just HAIR
Consider Donating to a Victim Our hearts break when we see small bald heads and big eyes. That lack of hair is a symbol of battle with a terrible enemy- cancer. “I look around my church and see so many women and children battling cancer with such great faith and courage,” Warren East High School counselor Angie Anderson said. “Not only do they suffer indignities from their illness but they also lose their hair, a symbol of beauty.” Several years ago Angie ran into a former basketball coach and was dismayed to hear that his wife had been diagnosed with cancer. Angie said, “I noticed that Coach’s son had grown his hair out. When I asked about the change in his image, he told me he was growing his hair so his Mom could have a wig. I’ll never forget what he said. ‘She’ll wear Carter hair.’ That was important.” That’s when Angie decided to donate her long hair to an organization that creates wigs for kids who have lost their hair from illness. “I’ve donated my hair three times to Locks of Love,” Angie explained. “My hair is the least I can give.” There are six organizations that accept hair donations in the United States. Each has its own requirements for the type and condition of
donation. We have listed the highlights and two of the organizations. Go to our website for the full list with details and addresses. The hair must be washed and dried within the last 24 hours before cutting for donation using no styling products. Most organizations do not accept bleached or chemically treated hair. Hair must measure (in a ponytail) at least eight to 12 inches long. Cut in a ponytail, mail the hair with a band tying both ends and a third band securing the middle. Mail the ponytail or braid in a sealable bag in a thick bubble envelope or small box. Locks of Love will accept colored, or permed hair at least 10 inches long. They work with both U.S. and Canadian youth under the age of 21 in need of a wig or hairpiece due to any medical condition, not just cancer. Pantene Beautiful Lengths accepts hair that is eight inches or longer but does not accept hair that has been colored or is more than 5% grey. Pantene distributes wigs with the American Cancer Society to anyone (adult or child) in need of a wig due to cancer. <
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About the contributor: Angie Anderson, an 18 year education veteran, is proud to work at her alma mater, Warren East High School, where she has taught social studies 15 years. This year is her first as a guidance counselor.
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Kids & Vitamins:Why Won’t They Just Eat If you believe what you see on television, every youngster needs a daily vitamin. But is it true? Not necessarily, the experts agree. Ideally, kids should get their vitamins from a balanced, healthy diet that includes milk and dairy products, plenty of fresh fruits and leafy, green vegetables, protein (like chicken, fish meat and eggs) plus whole grains. Good nutrition starts by serving a wide variety of whole, fresh foods as much as possible. That’s better than serving up fast foods or convenience foods -- and hoping that taking a kids’ vitamin will undo any nutritional no-no’s. You’ll find the most vitamins and minerals in foods high in carbohydrates and proteins (rather than fats). By far, the most high-vitamin foods of all are fresh fruits and vegetables. But, how many parents have the time for those wellrounded, home-cooked meals? Sometimes it just isn’t possible. That’s why your pediatrician may recommend a daily multivitamin. Some reasons for supplementing children’s vitamin intake include: • Kids who aren’t eating regular, well-balanced meals • Finicky eaters who simply aren’t eating enough • Kids with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or digestive problems, especially if they’re taking medications (talk with your child’s doctor first before starting a supplement if your child is on medication)
• Particularly active kids who play physically demanding sports • Kids eating a lot of fast foods, convenience foods, and processed foods • Kids on a vegetarian diet (they may need an iron supplement), a dairy-free diet (they may need a calcium supplement), or other restricted diet • Kids who drink a lot of carbonated sodas, which can leach vitamins and minerals from their bodies Something on this list probably sounds like your child, doesn’t it? If your doctor does suggest vitamins, don’t despair about another monthly expense. Your regional independent pharmacies are looking out for your kids’ health. Many of them are we offer the same service with vitamins as we do with offering a free vitamin program. prescriptions. You can call in refills and it will be ready Shaun Curtis, the Pharmacist Manager at Sheldon’s when you are.” < Pharmacy, explained how the program works at their store. “At Sheldon’s we invite parents to register children, About the contributor: Shaun Curtis graduated age two through 12, in our free vitamin program. Each from Greenwood High School and WKU. He child enrolled gets one bottle per month.” received a degree in Pharmacy at Sanford University Enrollment is simple. Parents are asked to fill out in Alabama. In his free time Shaun enjoys golf and some basic questions about each child. “We don’t even watching football. Shaun is the Pharmacist Manager require participants to be customers,” Shaun said. “And at Sheldon’s Pharmacy.
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Got Calcium? Women are prone to brittle and weaker bones, making calcium intake vital. Many tend to think we only have to worry about getting enough calcium as we get older, but the truth is, girls in their younger years, should be taking in enough calcium in order to prepare for their future. If calcium needs are not met at this stage, the risks of bone fractures or breaks are increased. Future bone will breakdown faster, leading to osteoporosis, or low bone mass. Bones are growing quickly at the ages of 11 through 21, and once growth has stopped, bone growth stops as well. Calcium needs for girls (and boys) this age are about 1,100 mg per day. Once the age of 18 is reached, needs reduce to about 800 mg per day until the age of 51, when needs increase to 1,000 mg. Calcium needs while pregnant or nursing stay the same because hormones allow for better absorption, but beware because if needs are not met, the body will make use of the calcium stored in the bone. All vitamins and minerals are best used by the body from foods, so if you are able to get enough calcium from your diet, stick to it. If
you are unsure if you get enough, try tracking your intake for a few days by adding up the percents of the daily values of calcium from the food label. If you reach at least 100 percent of the daily value, you are most likely meeting your needs. Foods with 10 percent or more of the daily value are good sources of calcium. Rich sources include milk, yogurt, cheese, and fortified soy milk, rice milk, or orange juice. Grains such as cereal, pasta, and bread have added calcium as well. Canned sardines and salmon with the bone can be another source. Leafy greens, especially collard greens, turnip greens, kale, and broccoli are some of the veggies that provide the most calcium. If an oral supplement is needed, take it between meals. Taking too much calcium at one time will not allow your body to absorb it all. If you are taking iron as well, do not take it at the same time as the calcium because it could cause the iron to not be absorbed. Vitamin D, which comes from sunlight or fortified foods, also helps absorb calcium. The bottom line: get your calcium at every age, no matter the source! <
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About the author: Samantha Reed is currently a dietetic intern through Western Kentucky University. She also completed her undergraduate degree in dietetics at WKU in 2011. She has been married to her loving husband, Joe for almost three years. Together, they have a sweet little girl named Kate. Once becoming a Registered Dietitian, Samantha hopes to find a job working with children in the field of dietetics.
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Travel: 10 Hits with the Horsey Set Saddle up for Kentucky horse country and a visit to the most beloved, family-friendly equine attractions in the state. Churchill Downs Louisville www.ChurchillDowns.com (502) 636-4400 Why it’s great for families: It’s affordable and offers something unique to do. Why kids love it: They can get up-close and personal to horses; they don’t have to sit in their seats and be quiet – they have lots of places to run around and can get loud and boisterous if they want. Kentucky Horse Park – Lexington www.KyHorsePark.com | (800) 678-8813 Why it’s great for families: It offers a full day of family fun, including a variety of daily shows, an Arabian museum with interactive features especially developed for kids, and horseback riding. Why kids love it: There are so many hands-on activities! Keeneland – Lexington www.Keeneland.com | (800) 456-3412, (859) 254-3412 Why it’s great for families: Saturday mornings during the race meet are made for families. Take the kids out to Sunrise Trackside for children’s activities, morning workouts, a fabulous buffet-style Southern breakfast and paddock demonstrations. And everything except the breakfast buffet is free. Why kids love it: They get to go to the Kids Club Corner and meet Buckles, Keeneland’s mascot, and participate in craft projects with the Explorium of Lexington. World Championship Horse Show – Louisville www.KyStateFair.org/wchs | (800) 745-3000 – tickets Why it’s great for families: This event takes place during the Kentucky State Fair so there’s lots of affordable family fun unfolding all over the fairgrounds, and morning shows
with the horses are free. Why kids love it: You can get a behind-the-scenes look at the Saddlebred industry – including an up-close and personal peek at the horses – during the Barn Tours and Stall Talks. Kentucky Derby Museum – Louisville www.DerbyMuseum.org | (502) 637-1111 ext 220 Why it’s great for families: Parents can really engage their kids in learning about the history of the Kentucky Derby with the Museum Map. It’s filled with trivia questions whose answers are found in the exhibits – and there’s a prize involved. Why kids love it: An inexhaustible list of things to do: mount a simulated horse and try to maintain the jockey’s stance for two minutes; try on jockey silks; climb up inside the starting gate for a keepsake photo; call a race in a soundproof booth (it’s not as easy as it looks on TV). American Saddlebred Capital of the World – Shelbyville www.VisitShelbyKy.com | (502) 633-6388 Why it’s great for families: The rich equine culture throughout the community, including shops, horseback riding, farm tours and scenic drives through beautiful countryside. Why kids love it: Because of how close they can get to the horses themselves – making the image become a reality. Horse Capital of the World Lexington www.VisitLex.com (800) 845-3959 Why it’s great for families: From the mesmerizing giant Foucault pendulum clock inside the Lexington Public Library featuring a frieze depicting the history of the horse in Lexington to Thoroughbred Park and the Explorium of Lexington, there are equine-related activities everywhere you go. Why kids love it: Children love to run and play and explore the life-size bronze statues of a horse race that has been frozen in time just as the horses are crossing the finish line at Thoroughbred Park – and
Horse Farm Tours – Shelbyville VisitShelbyKY.com/horse-farm-tours | (502) 633-6388 Why it’s great for families: There is an appeal for each member of the family: Mom and Dad can learn the history of the farms and the breed; children can experience the training of a horse and pet a foal, bringing this amazing animal down to their level. Why kids love it: They get to experience being “down on the farm” in a safe and comfortable way, making it fun for them and their parents. The Thoroughbred Center – Lexington www.TheThoroughbredCenter.com | (859) 293-1853 Why it’s great for families: Tours of The Thoroughbred Center are inexpensive and give families a glimpse into the life of a thoroughbred in training. Why kids love it: Children can get up close to the rail at the training track and watch as young thoroughbreds learn to use the starting gate. Old Friends: Retired Thoroughbreds Georgetown www.OldFriendsEquine.org (502) 863-1775 Why it’s great for families: Visitors get up-close and personal with former racehorses on a leisurely guided walking tour. Just like humans, each horse has its own story. Families like the exciting stories, meeting the horses and feeding a carrot to a horse (be sure to ask first!). They come to visit ex-racehorses, but leave having been touched by the heart of a thoroughbred hero. Why kids love it? Meeting Little Silver Charm, a mini horse and the farm’s spokes-horse, is the icing on the cake at Old Friends. Beloved by all the children who visit, LSC will often kick his soccer ball if kids are watching. <
About the author: 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. bowling green
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a great photo op for their parents. At the Explorium of Lexington, children can learn all about horses in a safe environment at the Hold Your Horses exhibit.
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Mother’s Day Dilemmas Solved Remember Mother’s Day before you had kids? The day probably revolved around your own mom, stepmom or other mother figure. Then maybe you got married and your mother-in-law came into the picture, and you had to really split your time every second Sunday in May. Once YOU became a mother you probably realized that juggling Mother’s Day visits (as well as your own “selfish” needs and wants) should be an Olympic event. While it’s true you can’t make everyone happy all of the time, I believe you CAN honor all the moms in your life — including yourself — every year. Here are some ideas: Dilemma: So many moms, so little time. Solution: Change it up. Who says Mother’s Day should only be celebrated on that specific Sunday in May? I like to have my stepmom over for dinner one night during the week leading up to Mother’s Day. Then maybe we take my mother-in-law out to dinner the night before. When Sunday rolls around, I have my mom over to hang out with us at our house for part of the day, and we make sure to serve her a special meal and shower her with cards and flowers. I get the best of both worlds on Mother’s Day: being with my own mom and being with the little ones who made ME a mom. Dilemma: A long-distance relationship with your mom or mother-in-law.
Solution: Skype! It’s free and fun — you just need an Internet connection and a camera hook-up for your computer. You could also make different plans every now and then (e.g., have an out-of-town Mother’s Day one year, then the next year stay put; or have one of the moms come for a weekend stay at your place). Dilemma: You feel selfish and guilty for wanting it to be about you. Solution: I believe it’s your choice as to how you want to spend your day or weekend once you become a mom yourself. You might want to get away for a Saturday spa day or sit around at a coffeehouse on Sunday leisurely reading or chatting with a friend for a few hours. Other years you might want to hang out around the house all day letting the kids pamper you. Dilemma: My inboxes (laundry hamper, kitchen sink, etc.) are always full. Solution: Of all days, take TODAY off, which means no housework! Close your eyes as you walk by the sink full of dishes, hold your nose as you stroll by the laundry hamper. In anticipation of this holiday, make sure you have paper plates and cups on hand for when your family serves you like the queen you are. Dilemma: My kid is a baby, and my husband can’t cook. Solution: If your husband and kids aren’t quite able to make you dinner on Mother’s Day, let them take you
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to a restaurant. If you aren’t up for wrestling with the kids at a restaurant, consider take-out. Don’t forget to grab something sweet that you love on the way home, like ice cream. This is the day you get to indulge and not feel one bit guilty! Dilemma: You’re a single mom. Solution: If you’re parenting alone, I’m hoping your kids will take over or that some trusted adult will assist them in making your day special. If your ex has the kids for the weekend, focus on yourself. The “no housework” rule applies to you, too, sister … believe me, it’ll still all be there tomorrow. Do what you love to do all day long. Go for a walk, read a juicy novel, go to a movie, soak in the tub, hang out with your own mom if you like. Mother’s Day is, of course, about mothers! Whatever situation you’re in mom-wise, try to make today out of the ordinary in some way. Just as you always want your children to have the best time on their birthday and other holidays, consider that you also deserve to have a good time on Mother’s Day. It’s all about balance, and it CAN be done! < About the author: Kerrie McLoughlin can be found talking about mothering almost every day at TheKerrieShow.com.
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Young People Can Make a Difference An actress and singer, Caroline mobilized 20 young artists for a talent showcase to benefit The American Red Cross Haiti Relief. Over 40 acts performed to raise $4,041. But this “movement of young creative world changers” also learned a valuable life lesson – they could use their talent to benefit our world, our country, and our community – yes, they could make a difference. To date, YAA has raised over $40,000 for charity, including Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville, a place dear to Caroline’s heart because it helps medically fragile children. The young artists toured CCK so they see firsthand how the dollars they raise really benefit others. This foray into philanthropy has garnered some unexpected benefits: awards, conference speaker, online teen peer host, and seat on South Central Kentucky Community Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Council. Even with all this, the South Warren sophomore stays grounded. “Awards are nice, but I still need to clean my room and eat more vegetables. And I don’t need to procrastinate about finishing my homework,” she says. The Young Artist Alliance motto is “Make A Difference, I Dare You.” In her young life Caroline Ford is a living example of that motto. No doubt, she will be for a very long time. <
About the author: Theresa Clark is the Senior Research Analyst in the office of Development and Alumni Relations at WKU. A 1984 graduate of Colorado State University, Theresa made her way east to cover horse shows for Saddle Horse Report and found herself transplanted to Bowling Green when she married husband, David. They have two daughters, a son-in-law and a new grandson. Theresa enjoys writing, crafts and serving in her church, Covenant Ministries Baptist Church.
Photo courtesy of Red Elephant Studio
Scrolling through a list of accomplishments for Caroline Ford, it’s natural to react with “Wow” and “she is really something.” And while her accomplishments are extraordinary, the person behind the list is even more impressive. This 16-year-old has a huge heart for helping others and empowering teens. She understands something quite simple – when you find your passion and harness it, you can achieve great things. Caroline explains, “I believe everyone possesses a great and unique talent and the power to improve the world. I want my legacy to be that I encouraged others to be their best self by sharing their talent to improve the world.” As she spreads her message to teens in Bowling Green and beyond, adults who hear her inspirational message become believers, too. At first glance, Caroline is a lovely teenage girl. As she speaks about her passions with thoughtfulness and care, it’s obvious something runs much deeper within. Her answers to questions, which she has surely answered numerous times, are laced with compassion, encouragement, motivation, and an understanding of someone with a heartfelt mission to better the world. It began in 2010, when Caroline established the Young Artist Alliance after seeing the devastating earthquake in Haiti on the news. “I felt compelled to do something,” she explains.
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A Single Parent: Dad As parents, our main focus is to ensure we give our children the best life possible. In today’s society, it is quite common to see that goal become much more difficult because the household is run by a single parent. Statistically, single parent homes usually consist of a female head of house, or mother, due to the father’s absence. But imagine a different scenario. Suppose you were a man who had been incarcerated many years, released without any support system, and told you had a terminal disease. It would be understandable how these overwhelming circumstances could cause you to give up hope. But wait! If your life wasn’t tough enough already, you receive even more troubling news. You find that you have been given full custody of your two young children, and now you’re a single parent. If life dealt YOU this hand, would you give up and lose all hope, or face the dealer and create the best life you possibly could for your children? This is a real-life story about hard times and a father who gives meaning to the word backbone. We’ll call him “William.” While facing down cancer and the stigma that society placed on him following his incarceration, He became the best parent he possibly could. This good man not only ensured a bright future for his children by focusing on their educational development, but also focused on being a worthy personal example.
William has taught his children the skills of love, respect, and dignity, and lavished these gifts upon them as well. As a role model, William shows his children that everything has value and should be appreciated. As a teacher, he challenges them constantly, accepting that his children are not like him because he wants them to be better. But most of all, this father protects his family and their values at all cost, and displays the purpose of personal sacrifice. This exceptional man has touched our hearts. We would most certainly like to take this time to show our gratitude to him for his courageous efforts. Let’s give props to this dedicated Dad! <
About the author: Selia Brooks is the Building Supervisor and a Head Start Center manager in Warren County. She graduated from the University of Kentucky, and is currently working toward her masters in early childhood education. She has worked at Community Action of Southern Kentucky for over four and a half years. Photo courtesy of Red Elephant Studio
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the
book nook
The Rockets at Jody Richards Elementary are out of this world readers! Our students really enjoy checking books out of the library! Here are some of their favorites. We hope you enjoy checking these titles out this summer with your children. Newly released titles that have been flying off the shelves include the Divergent series for older kids who enjoy books like the Hunger Games; Wonder, by R.J. Palacio- a book about kindness and inclusion; Lincoln’s Grave Robbers, by Steve Sheinkin- a suspenseful tale for 10-14 yearolds; a great primary book called Press Here, by Hervé Tullet; Who Could That be at this Hour, a new series by Lemony Snicket; and a terrific read-aloud for young children, Exclamation Mark by Tom Lichtenheld. Some of the students’ favorite titles in the primary grades include the perpetually favorite heroines, Junie B. Jones, Fancy Nancy and Olivia. Other titles the little ones enjoy include
anything from the Magic Tree House series, Dr. Seuss, Pete the Cat, Clifford or Pinkalicious. Many students in the primary grades enjoy nonfiction titles as well, including anything about sports, cars, dinosaurs, space, and animals. But most importantly, parents can encourage small children to read by reading to and with them. Intermediate grades really enjoy suspense and mystery genres as well as military nonfiction titles. Graphic novels are becoming popular as well! I recently purchased several nonfiction series including Heroes of the Military, Native American Library, Epic Military Jobs, Top 10 Worst (villains, pirates, etc.), Jr. Graphic Monster Stories, Kids Guide To Series, Graphic Novel Folktales Series, Jr. Graphic Colonial America, and Scary Places Series that features Mammoth Cave as one of the stories. The Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge-- This is a challenge for students to read everyday throughout the
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summer. Students register online to log their reading. http://www.scholastic.com/summer/. While there, students can help set a NEW WORLD RECORD for the most summer reading minutes, which will be featured in the 2014 Scholastic Book of World Records. You can find out about the record attempt at this same site. Kids log reading minutes and track their status, earn rewards, and compete with schools around the world that are also trying to set the world record. <
About the author: Dee Dee Webb has been teaching eight years. She received a BS in Middle Grades Education and Master’s of Library Science at WKU. Dee Dee is an avid history buff and enjoys reading historical fiction, historical nonfiction, and new release best sellers. Besides reading, in her spare time she enjoys learning about new technology, and spending time with her husband of 18 years, her 4-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son.
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