The ‘Dog Days’ Are Here!

When the temps soar above 100 degrees, I think of our dedicated delivery men and women. Hard-working USPS, UPS, and FedEx employees work long hours in the scorching heat on seemingly never-ending routes. It’s only appropriate that during the ‘dog days’ of summer, I share a tale of a dog and a mail person.

I would like to give a special thank you to my mail person. We call her “Carrie the Mail Lady”. Carrie loves our dog, Sally Ann. She affectionately calls Sally her sugar baby. Every day, whether we receive any mail or not, Carrie leaves Sally Ann mail, AKA Pup-Peroni strips, in the mailbox. As soon as Sally hears the mail vehicle coming up the road, she immediately runs to the front yard. You can hear her crying with joy (she is a girl, after all) as she anxiously awaits her pal, Carrie. If we have a package, Carrie brings it up to the house and gives our girl treats by the handful. Sally Ann gets jealous if Carrie is at one of our neighbor’s houses to deliver a package and barks as if to say “Wrong house! I’m down here!”

Even though Carrie may be exhausted most days, she is always thoughtful and kind. Show the same kindness to your delivery people. Rather than complain if something is late, simply give them a thank you. Keep an extra bottle of water or Gatorade in the fridge and offer it to your delivery person. They deserve our gratitude for their tireless work.

Visit our wonderful advertisers and check out the many activities going on during August and September. Thank you for your readership and support for PAFM, we appreciate you. Stay cool and enjoy the rest of summer!

- Cassie

P.O. Box 8061

Paducah, KY 42002 270.210.7068 admin@allgoodmedia.net

Editor/Publisher

Karen Hammond

Contributing Writers

Britt Allgood and Cassie Johnson

Advertising Sales Director

Cassie Johnson

Art Director/Graphic Design

Angie Wyatt

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Mission Statement

PAFM is committed to providing free, accurate, and timely information to readers in western Kentucky, southern Illinois and all its communities. Our goal is to educate, inform, and enhance family life. We endeavor to support our communities by providing balanced and informative articles that spotlight nonprofits, local businesses, and events.

Purchase Area Family® is published bi-monthly by All Good Media, LLC. Advertising design and layout by Angie Wyatt. All Good Media, LLC is not responsible for any injury or harm resulting from the information or advice contained in this magazine. The articles in this issue of Purchase Family Magazine®, may not necessarily reflect the opinions of All Good Media, LLC. All subscription, editorial, and advertising inquiries should be directed to admin@allgoodmedia.net or call 270.210.7068.

By Cassie Johnson

Marching across the horizon of our cover are Kaden and Ella Steckenrider. These colonial siblings may not be counting down the days until school starts, but they are counting down to the 49th Fort Massac Grand Encampment which will be held on October 21 and 22.

Metropolis, Illinois sits on the Ohio River and is more than the “Home of Superman”. As the leaves change and the air grows cooler, this charming small town transforms into a haven of nostalgic delights. Step back in time as British, United States, French, and Indian historical reenactors gather to showcase life in the early 1700s.

“The Encampment is an incredible opportunity to witness history come to life!” Said Trish Steckenrider, Director of Tourism for Metropolis. “Every detail reflects the authenticity of the era, from the materials used to the food served.”

The dedicated reenactors have mastered their skills, ensuring that their actions and uniforms align perfectly with the past. Feeling the blasts of the cannons vibrate in your chest and hearing the rhythmic beats of drums and flutes adds to the excitement.

Craftsmen & Merchants

Explore the park's scenic paths and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere filled with blanket and fur traders, skilled craftsmen, and bustling merchants.

“The vendors who are set up on-site will demonstrate their trades such as basket weaving and blacksmithing,” explained Steckenrider. “It’s such a neat experience to watch them and think about how daily life was like back then compared to today.”

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure unlike any other. Instead of ordinary festival fare, indulge in mouthwatering delights such as old-fashioned chicken and dumplins, fried corn bread, and giant turkey legs. All of the foods are meticulously made with love, reminiscent of the late 1700s or early 1800s. When you purchase from the food vendors, you are making a difference in the Massac County community. 85 percent of the food vendors are devoted non-profit agencies who depend on the Encampment to help fund them for the year.

Witness the Real Battle!

The real thrill awaits you during the battle—the highlight of the weekend. Although Fort Massac never witnessed any real battles, their mock battle at 3 pm on both Friday and Saturday is an eyeopening experience.

“It showcases the military tactics and maneuvers of the troops from that time,” Steckenrider shares. “It's a spectacle you won't want to miss. Brace yourself for the cannon booms on the battlefield and watch in amazement. You will notice everyone around you is captivated by this part of the Encampment.”

Not only will the cannons boom on the battlefield, but the explosions will continue in the air as a firework show takes place on the Fort Massac riverfront Saturday evening.

The Fort Massac Encampment is the 3rd largest event in the State of Illinois sponsored by IDNR and a vibrant celebration that breathes life into the community. This year, Steckenrider estimates between 80,000 and more than 100,000 visitors. The City of Metropolis invites locals and travelers to become a part of the tradition that has captivated the hearts of many.

“We have second and third generations come to the Encampment,” Steckenrider said. “The tradition of this event is part of what makes it special and keeps people coming back for more. It is completely family-friendly and you truly can find something for everyone. Come and experience it for yourself!”

Super City Brew Fest

On September 9 from 6 pm to 9 pm make plans to attend the Super

“You can sample an impressive selection of domestic and craft beers and help determine the crowd favorite for the Super City Home Brew Competition,” Steckenrider said. “It’s not just about the brews, it’s about having fun!”

Groove to the incredible tunes of Blake Brown and the amazing Johnnie Mac with his full band. There will be more outdoor games and the return of the iconic mechanical bull. Don’t miss out! Tickets are on sale now at supercitybrewfest.com.

Holiday Shopping

The holiday season is just around the corner. Get ready to dive into the joyful spirit of gift buying in Metropolis, the ultimate shopping destination. You will find everything from adorable children’s clothing and toys to exquisite handmade crafts and extraordinary collectibles.

“We have great locally owned stores and restaurants who are ready to serve you,” Steckenrider shares. “Metropolis is your one-stop shop to check off everyone on your shopping list.”

Come and explore the magic of Metropolis! To stay up to date on all of the town’s events follow them @homeofsuperman on social media or visit metropolistourism.com. 