Sweet Owen | Summer 2023

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INTERNET

G E T A F R E E Q U O T E

16 | Summer in a small town

The Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show is among the many events taking place in Owen County this summer. Other events include Food Truck Friday and Mayberry Day, both located around the Courthouse Square, as well as the return of the Wide Open No Fear Rodeo.

10 When blackberries ripen Georgia Green Stamper reflects on childhood events that helped shape

Introducing: Staff Sgt. Kameron Kelly Kameron "Kam" Kelly enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2019, and will deploy to Korea this summer

32 Summer reads Amanda Anderson Matthews shares her must-read fiction picks for the summer season

12 Summer calendar

Summer is here, and we've got a complete list of upcoming events for the entire family

27 House of McNally

A recipe passed down from generation to generation remains a staple on Lyndsi McNally’s table

33

Paddle your cares away

Take a relaxing tour of one of Owen County's many waterways in a canoe or kayak this summer

Sweet Owen

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE IN OWEN COUNTY, KENTUCKY

© 2021-2023, Owen County Tourism Commission

Volume I, Issue 7 June 2023

Molly Haines Riddle Editor

Whitney Prather Duvall

Copy Editor

Owen County Tourism Commission

Holly Bowling, Director

Jenni Duncan, Chairperson

Mike Haines, Treasurer

Lindsey Tirey, Secretary

Jessy Sanders, Member

Shadoe Aldridge, Member

Darla House-Webb, Member

Sean O’Daniel, Member

Contributors

Whitney Prather Duvall, Amanda Anderson

Matthews, Lyndsi McNally, Brian Riddle, Georgia Green Stamper, Marlene Browning Wainscott

For advertising information, email editor@sweetowenmag.com or call 502-514-6612

To submit an event, letter to the editor, or suggest story ideas, email editor@sweetowenmag.com.

Submission deadlines: 4 p.m., July 14, for Fall (September-November)

Isometimes wish I could lead the life of one Jackson Douglas Bartholomew Riddle, or "Jack" for short. Treated like royalty by all who know him, Jack spends his days rolling around in freshly-cut grass, snoozing on top of a fuzzy blanket in what has become "his" recliner, and receiving an endless supply of treats from his Papaw.

Unfortunately, I'm not a 9-year-old Beagle, and my chosen occupations to date have filled the summers of my adulthood with an abundance of deadlines that can neither be sloughed off nor ignored. While sleeping for multiple hours a day and constantly being referred to as "the best baby in the world" sounds enticing, I think I'm doing what I was called to do— regardless of the pesky deadlines.

All jokes aside, we've completed a 76-page fair catalog and the magazine you now hold in your hands with overwhelming support from local advertisers, which assists the Owen County Fair Board in putting on the best event possible and, of course, pays to print these publications, allowing us to share the story of our community, its people and its history with thousands of others throughout the commonwealth and beyond.

I've called this magazine a passion project since the beginning, and when you travel across Owen County, you'll see a lot of that happening anywhere you go. From the multiple food pantries throughout the community to scholarship funds, support groups, and beyond, Owen County has a way of taking care of its own like no other place I've seen.

But summer is also Owen County's time to welcome visitors for events like Food Truck Friday, Mayberry Day, the Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show, and the Wide Open No Fear Rodeo, all of which are featured in this quarter's edition of Sweet Owen. From May through August, these events draw an untold amount of spectators who will support local businesses while here, allowing those businesses and their employees to spend more within the local economy. Tourism truly is a win-win for everyone.

So, while rolling around in the grass without a care in the world may be best for Jack, there's work to be done in the real world that's not limited to a few folks: volunteers are always in need to pull off a successful event or to help a resident in need. It's never too late to begin investing in your community.

502-563-5050 www.visitowencountyky.org

Sweet Owen

Molly Haines Riddle

ABOUT THE COVER: Taken along the Kentucky River at Monterey, this quarter's cover photo is provided by John Bramel. Although an ancient mode of transportation, canoeing saw an increase in popularity among home-weary families during the pandemic. Both canoeing and kayaking can provide hours of affordable entertainment, whether relaxing or fishing. For more, see page 33.

"JACK"

STORIES

worth

SHARING

BY WHITNEY PRATHER DUVALL Sweet Owen Contributor

Sixteen million Americans served in the military during World War II. Today, a mere fraction of this “Greatest Generation”—approximately 167,000—are still with us. For Marlene Browning-Wainscott, capturing their individual stories has long been a time-sensitive mission.

If you’ve ever picked up a copy of Sweet Owen Magazine, like you’re doing right now, you’ve likely read Marlene’s biographies of Owen County’s servicemen and women—which include detailed firsthand accounts. For many of us, this may be the closest we come to sitting down with a veteran and hearing their story.

A Henry County native, Marlene is an instructor of psychology at Kentucky State University. She and her husband, Jason, have operated Full Service Automotive, specializing in oil distribution, marine, and mower sales and repair, since 2005.

Touting a passion for history, Marlene said her interest in veterans and the armed forces comes from her great-aunt.

“While the art of writing letters has greatly diminished over the past few decades, I found great pleasure in the stories she would write about in her letters,” Marlene said. “Her first husband lost his life overseas during World War II, and she suddenly found herself at the military base alone. She was facing the loss of her husband during a difficult time for so many and was trying to get back home to her family.

“While she had briefly shared this story with a few family members, she did not care to discuss it openly. I realized how important it was to learn about how this war affected those who lived it. While history books and

—

classes provide an overview of these events, they can never express what it was like to have truly lived these experiences.”

With this interest in tow, Marlene said her true inspiration for capturing

p MARLENE BROWNING-WAINSCOTT holds a sample of an Honor Banner that includes a biography of her late father-in-law, James Edward Cook, who served in World War II. The biography is one of many Browning-Wainscott has authored throughout her time-sensitive mission to capture veterans’ individual stories.

Photo by Whitney Prather Duvall

the stories of veterans stemmed from one such Jarl Lee Harris. To many in the community, Harris was known as the “Sign Man,” a talented painter of several signs for local businesses who lived next door to Marlene and Jason’s shop.

“I noticed one day that he had a World War II veteran hat on, and I asked him when he served,” Marlene recalls. “This was the beginning of our long friendship that continued until he passed in 2022. That day, (Harris) shared with me that he had retired from the military and had participated in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He was literally living history.

“As a paratrooper, he jumped on D-Day, participated in the Battle of the Bulge Operation Market Garden, liberated several concentration camps, and received the Purple Heart commendation for his bravery during service. This is just a brief glimpse into his long career in the military, but this amazing story was something no one knew about. He made me realize the importance of documenting, preserving, and sharing stories that might otherwise be lost forever.”

Marlene’s mission is to capture what is omitted in history books.

“The details of their experiences are, to say the least, humbling,” she said. “For the most part, while we recognize the importance of honoring our veterans, we do not completely understand the sacrifice they have made to provide us with the freedoms we have in our

society. It’s important to share their stories to better understand the cost of freedom.”

As she works to enhance our understanding and appreciation of all that comes with one’s sacrifice and service to the country, it’s been impossible for her to be unaffected by this endeavor.

“During an interview with a Korean War veteran, my daughter was sitting quietly behind us. He was recalling a time that they were under fire and how they were trying to rescue their friends from behind enemy lines. He was 18 years old. When he left, she looked at me and said, ‘He was just a few years older than me when he did that, and kids my age are worried that our internet isn’t working.’ Their stories had already changed me, and now they had changed her. Through his story, and many others, she became a patriot and developed an appreciation and respect that may have never been achieved otherwise— that’s why this is so important.”

You, too, can be a party to this intimate, firsthand experience documented through Marlene’s articles featured in this magazine each quarter.

“It has truly been a privilege to capture the stories of our veterans and current military men and women and share them with others,” Marlene said.

“I’ve been honored to share these stories, and my focus has always been to honor the men and women who have sacrificed so much for this country. I can honestly say that there has been no greater privilege to be able to create continued friendships with the individuals I have interviewed over the past decade. It is one thing to read about wars and military service from a book on the internet, but the connection that’s created by hearing it from someone who lived it is extremely powerful.” v

p MARLENE BROWNING-WAINSCOTT'S commitment to documenting the stories of World War II veterans began after she befriended local World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient Jarl Lee Harris. — Photo by Whitney Prather Duvall

WANT TO SHARE YOUR STORY WITH MARLENE? Owen County veterans interested in having their stories documented by Marlene BrowningWainscott may email editor@sweetowenmag.com. Interested veterans must reside in or have been born in Owen County.

When blackberries ripen

BY GEORGIA GREEN STAMPER

It's June in my slice of Kentucky, and the wild blackberry bushes that grow like weeds–untended and uninvited–are strutting, heavy with ripe, juicy berries. To pick them, however, you must wade into the thick briar patches where they grow. When I think of the briar patches, especially this time of year, I remember Johnny and the fire and Miz Zell.

In Small Acreages, I wrote about the fire that destroyed our farmhouse the spring I turned 4. But it marks the dramatic beginning of most of my childhood memories, and I return to it again and again as though studying an ancient map of my journey to and through adulthood.

My parents were awakened in the middle of the night by an explosion, and within five minutes, the whole house was blazing. We ran outside in our night clothes without taking time to dress or put on shoes. As Daddy raced to the cistern to fetch futile buckets of water, Mother, realizing we needed our neighbors' help quickly, darted back into the house to grab the car keys. In the chaos and darkness, I stood frightened and bewildered where I'd been carried and set down. Then, unbeknownst to Mother, I decided to run after her when I saw her disappear into the house. In one of those unexplained miracles of chance, my father–by the cistern on the far side of the yard–spotted me. He raced to sweep me up in his arms the very moment before I stepped inside the smokefilled, burning building.

I was the only thing Daddy was able to save that night other than my toy box snatched from the front porch. There wasn't much in it of note other than my beloved Johnny. He was my baby doll with soft, rubbery skin that looked like my own pink flesh, and his blue, glass eyes opened and shut like a real baby's.

pGEORGIA GREEN STAMPER grew up on a tobacco farm in Owen County. Her third book of essays, Small Acreages, is now available.

I loved him very much and even more after that night. In my childish way, I understood that Johnny and I were both lucky to have escaped from the fire, and he became my constant companion in the displaced days that followed.

Until a new house could be built, my family rented a recently vacated cottage from Miz Zell True a few miles from our farm. Indeed, it set across the road from the True home, and Miz Zell did all she could to pull us through that difficult summer. She showed up every day with small gifts of food and encouraging stories. Miz Zell would be my first-grade teacher a few years later, nurturing all her students with her can-do spirit and inspiring tales of people who overcame odds. Like the teased and taunted Christopher Columbus who sailed west to reach the east and ended up bumping into America–oh, she loved that story. Or Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego whom God rescued from Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace–that was my favorite. But the summer I was four, she simply helped us, reminded us, to keep on keeping on. And so, in late June, Miz Zell suggested we plan "a fun outing" for me to pick blackberries on our farm.

The next morning, the four of us headed out, Mother, Miz Zell, Johnny, and me. Miz Zell wore a sunbonnet over her silvery halo of hair, and Mother dressed me in long pants and sturdy shoes (blackberry bushes have thorns, you know, and grass chiggers hide on their leaves). Off we went with empty water buckets to fill with berries. The dew had not yet lifted when

we began, and I still remember my excitement as we waded into the briar patch, stepping carefully from one rock or bare spot to the other. But two hours later, I was exhausted, overheated, and sobbing. Johnny had gotten lost somewhere in the brambles.

We searched and searched, re-tracing our steps. Finally, weary and hot, we left the farm without Johnny. Miz Zell comforted me. The menfolk would find him that evening when they rounded up the milk cows, she said. And he was made of sturdy stuff and could withstand being outside for a day or so. "Remember"–and then she told me every don't-give-up story in her repertoire.

But Johnny wasn't found that evening or the next or even the next. With everything to replace, money was tight for my family that year, and I don't recall getting a new doll until Santa brought one at Christmas. By then, I understood that Johnny was lost forever.

Two years passed. One winter day, Daddy came in from searching for lambing ewes and said, "Guess what I found?"

He held out a gray lump that looked

like a dead animal or maybe a Biblical leper shedding decayed skin. Its sunken eyes stared at me from an ashen face. Terrified, I backed away from its haunting gaze and hid behind my mother.

But Daddy had found Johnny.

Rescued a second time, Johnny had been given yet another chance. And so had I, his careless keeper. Mother gently washed him, and embarrassed of my initial fear, I reached out to cradle him. In the years that followed, he held an honored place within my growing doll collection. Whenever a visiting playmate questioned his lessthan-perfect appearance, I told his story. Johnny became a legend.

Miz Zell died when I was 11. My dolls, including Johnny, were packed away when childhood faded into adolescence. Still, when blackberries ripen in Owen County, I think about them both. I ponder the unexplained miracles of chance I've experienced, as well as the many chances I have been given to self-correct in my long life. I remember the sweet taste of summer's wild blackberries–and the plant's persistence to survive, to flourish, in a briar patch. v

“When blackberries ripen in Owen County. . . I ponder the unexplained miracles of chance I've experienced, as well as the many chances I've been given to self-correct in my long life.

— Georgia Green Stamper

DID YOU KNOW? During the U.S. Civil War, blackberry tea was used to cure dysentery. More than one ceasefire was reportedly called for the purpose of picking blackberries and Confederate and Union soldiers would pick blackberries together, often from the same bush at the same time.

EVENTS

Have

an event you’d like to share?

Sweet Owen Magazine accepts event listings free of charge from civic groups, volunteer organizations, churches, clubs, etc. Send your event and a brief description to editor@sweetowenmag. com by 4 p.m., June 30, 2023, for the fall (September-November) edition.

Friday, June 9

2 p.m., Mystery Book Club at the Owen County Public Library

Discussing “Darkness My Old Friend” by Lisa Unger. Pick up July’s book, “X,” by Sue Grafton. This group meets at 2 p.m. on the second Friday of each month.

Friday, June 9-Saturday, June 11

Big Kahuna Shoot at Elk Creek Hunt Club & Resort

The Big Kahuna returns to Elk Creek Hunt Club & Resort, 1860 Georgetown Road, Owenton. The main event features 200 targets; dinner and live music on Saturday. National Sporting Clays Association sanctioned event.

Saturday, June 10 3 p.m., Miss Teen/Pre-Teen/Miss Owen County Fair/Miss Owen County Pageants Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show pageants will take place at Maurice Bowling Middle School. Entry is $5. Little Prince/Princess/Little Miss (Local)/ Little Miss/Little Mister pageants will be held during fair week at the fairgrounds.

Tuesday, June 13

12:30 p.m., Owen County Retired Teachers Meeting

The Owen County Retired Teachers will meet at the Owenton First Christian Church Fellowship Hall.

1-2 p.m., Tea Time in Kentucky

Join the Owen County Public Library at the Owen County Senior Center, 118 N. Main, Owenton, to discuss the history

of tea from the frontier of Kentucky to the tea rooms in the cities. Decorate a tea box to take home, along with a few tea bags of your favorite tea. Everyone welcome.

3:30-4:30 p.m., Owen County Public Library

Bookmobile at Jonesville Methodist Church

5-6 p.m., Owen County Public Library

Bookmobile at Poplar Grove Baptist Church

Wednesday, June 14

Flag Day

Thursday, June 15

10 a.m., Yoga with Amy at the Owen County Public Library

Join instructor Amy Martin from northern Kentucky as she returns to lead yoga practice. This class is for all ability levels. She is able to suggest modifications.

"One benefit of summer was that each day we had more light to read by."

—

Jeannette Walls

p THE SPORTING CLAYS ASSOCIATION OF KENTUCKY will host the 2023 Kentucky State Sporting Clays Championship at Elk Creek Hunt Club, pictured above, from Friday, Aug. 18 to Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023. — Photo by Molly Haines Riddle/Sweet Owen Editor

11 a.m., Walk Away the Pounds at the Owen County Public Library

Walk in place to the Leslie Sansone 30-minute walking video in the spacious meeting room. Walking with friends makes the time pass faster. This event repeats at 11 a.m. every Thursday.

Friday, June 16

6-10 p.m., Caileen Tallant at Elk Creek Vineyards

Singer/songwriter Caileen Tallant performs live music at Elk Creek Vineyards, 150 Hwy. 330, Owenton, KY 40359.

Saturday, June 17 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Mayberry Day

For more information, see page 17. 6-10 p.m., Kyle Armitage at Elk Creek Vineyards

Kyle Armitage performs live at Elk Creek Vineyards, 150 Hwy. 330, Owenton, KY 40359.

Sunday, June 18

Father’s Day

Monday, June 19

10 a.m., Stretch & Strengthen at the Owen County Public Library

Feel strong, pain-free and balanced after completing the workout. Follow KET personality Miranda Esmonde-White on the big screen for this class. No difficult moves. Appropriate for everyone. This event repeats at 10 a.m. every Monday.

Tuesday, June 20

Painting 101 at the Owen County Public Library

Learn basic painting techniques. Beginners are always welcome! Reserve your space at 502-484-3450.

Wednesday, June 21

4:30-8:30 p.m., Longest Day of Play

Join the Three Rivers District Health Department for its Longest Day of Play event at the Owen County Fairgrounds, 355 Ellis Road, Owenton. Activities include bubbles, face

paint, cornhole, Kona Ice, and more. A “Fastest Kid in Town” race will begin at 8 p.m.

Thursday, June 22

3-4 p.m., Owen County Public Library Bookmobile at New Columbus Baptist Church

4:30-5:30 p.m., Owen County Public Library Bookmobile at Elk Lake Resort

Friday, June 23

7-9 p.m., Owen County Swim Night Owen County families are invited to come, relax and enjoy a fun summer activity at no cost. Event will be held at the Juniper Hill Family Aquatic Center, 800 Louisville Rd., Frankfort, KY 40601. Please RSVP to the Owen County Drug Prevention Coalition, 859-512-7270.

Tuesday, June 27

2-3 p.m., Owen County Public Library Bookmobile at Perry Park Resort

4-5 p.m., Owen County Public Library Bookmobile at Eagle Creek Resort

Thursday, June 29

1 p.m., Teen Scene: Clay Creations at the Owen County Public Library

Using air-drying clay, make vases, pots and sculptures. Learn techniques for improving your 3D clay creations. For middle schoolers and up.

Saturday, July 1-Saturday, July 8 Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show at the Owen County Park & Fairgrounds For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.owencountyfairboard.com.

Tuesday, July 4 Independence Day

Friday, July 7 Noon, Books@Noon at the Owen County Public Library

If you love reading a variety of books, this is the club for you. The group meets on the first Friday of each month and all are welcome.

Tuesday, July 11

1 p.m., Bridge at the Owen County Public Library

This informal group of Bridge enthusiasts invites you to join them no matter your skill level. They are always looking for a fourth, and enjoy introducing the game to new players. This event repeats at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month.

Friday, July 21-Saturday, July 22

8 p.m., Wide Open No Fear Rodeo

The Wide Open No Fear Rodeo returns for two special nights at the Owen County Fairgrounds, 355 Ellis Road, Owenton. For more information, see page 18, and visit www.wideopennofear.com.

Monday, July 31

6 p.m., Owen County Homemakers Craft Club: Diamond Art at the Owen County Cooperative Extension Office

The cost is $4 (cash or check only). Register by Monday, July 24, by calling 502-484-5703.

Friday, Aug. 4

6-9 p.m., Food Truck Friday

Food Truck Friday returns to the Owen County Courthouse Square for an evening of fun, food, and music by Lauren Mink and Dale Adams.

Thursday, Aug. 3-Sunday, Aug. 6 127 Yard Sale

Friday, Aug. 11

6-9 p.m., Alicia New at Elk Creek Vineyards

Alicia New performs live at Elk Creek Vineyards, 150 Hwy. 330, Owenton, KY 40359.

Saturday, Aug. 12

6-9 p.m., John Horan at Elk Creek Vineyards

John Horan performs live at Elk Creek Vineyards, 150 Hwy. 330, Owenton, KY 40359.

Friday, Aug. 18-Sunday, Aug. 20

2023 Kentucky State Sporting Clays Championship at Elk Creek Hunt Club

Food Truck Friday (FTF), held around the Owen County Courthouse Square, takes place this summer Aug. 4 and Sept. 8. The FTF events are one of two happening around the Square this summer, as Mayberry Day is set for Saturday, June 17.

Summer in a small town

Courthouse square sets the stage for multiple summer events; county fair, Wide Open No Fear Rodeo return

STORY BY MOLLY HAINES-RIDDLE

American novelists of Southern descent are known to take great pains in their descriptions of the archetypical Courthouse Square. Once a bevy of activities, the romanticized town center became neglected as industrialization grew, leaving many businesses shuttered and historic structures in disrepair.

Although Owenton's courthouse square suffered this same fate for a number of years, a global pandemic led to a need for goods and services closer to home, and thus six new businesses opened in a matter of months. The business openings eventually spurred an increase in events around the Square, connecting both residents and visitors with the town's past and present.

Take, for example, Food Truck Friday (FTF). Organized in 2019 by the Owenton City Council, the event brings live music to the courthouse lawn and multiple food trucks offering meal options not readily accessible at local restaurants. With the tagline, "Bring a Lawn Chair and a Friend," the event—held in May, June, August, and September—encourages catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.

COVID-19 would bring the event to a halt in 2020. Upon its resurrection the following year, the opportunity to shop the Square's newly-opened businesses led to increased attendance.

"Having those businesses in place and their agreement to remain open during Food Truck Friday is a major

boost to the event," said FTF Committee member Jill Dunavent. "Not only that, but we're always hopeful visitors to Food Truck Friday will continue to return to the Square to shop and support small. Big-box stores are convenient, but nothing beats knowing that by shopping local you've just contributed to a daughter's college tuition or a son's baseball uniform."

The remaining dates for this year's Food Truck Friday season are Aug. 4, with Lauren Mink and Dale Adams; and Sept. 8, with Honey Child. For a list of available food trucks, visit www. facebook.com/owencountykytourism before each event.

Mayberry Day

Local State Farm Insurance Agent Richard Greene knows a thing or two about classics—cars and sitcoms Taking a page from Mount Airy, North Carolina’s, book, Greene has combined his pastimes into an event that draws hundreds to Owenton’s Courthouse Square for one day each June.

Known as the real-life hometown of the late Andy Griffith, Mount Airy has capitalized on its similarities to the fictional town of Mayberry, the setting of the 1960s sitcom, “The Andy Griffith Show.” When visiting Mount Airy, fans of the show are invited to see Floyd’s City Barber Shop, the old Mayberry jail, Snappy Lunch, and Wally’s Service Station, among other landmarks from the

much-loved television show.

Reflecting on the success of Mount Airy as a tourist destination, Greene notes similarities between Griffith’s hometown and Owenton. Those similarities, according to Greene, aren’t lost on visitors to Owen County.

“The main vibe I get from (visitors) is that it’s a little slower paced here,” Greene said prior to the inaugural event in 2014. “People are nice, and they say, ‘People wave at me, and they don’t even know me—it just reminds me of Mayberry.”

With that knowledge and a desire to increase foot traffic at Owenton’s downtown shops, Greene successfully turned his dream into a reality. Now in its sixth year (canceled from 2020-2022 due to COVID-19), Mayberry Day returns from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, June 17, with a classic car show, Andy Griffith Show look-a-like contest, a baking contest— bring your best cakes, pies, cookies, and yes, canned pickles—and a special guest appearance by The Darlings, AKA regional Bluegrass favorite No Tools Loaned.

Additionally, businesses on the square have agreed to take on a Mayberry persona for the day, with Carpenter Lane Coffee Company becoming “Snappy Lunch,” Family Billiards & Restaurant the “Bluebird Diner,” and Tackett’s Men’s Wear “Weaver’s Department Store,” among others.

SEE SUMMER, PAGE 18

Following the success of the first two events, Greene took his vision a step further, approaching the Owen County Tourism & Convention Commission on the possibility of hosting a Christmas play. “Christmas In Mayberry” has become a popular tradition, bringing hundreds to the Owen County Courthouse each December.

For more information on Mayberry Day’s schedule of events, follow @ OwenCountyKYTourism on Facebook.

Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show

Less than two miles from the Courthouse Square, the Owen County Park & Fairgrounds is home to one of the county's largest events of the year: the Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show.

This year's fair events get underway Saturday, July 1, with the 4-H & FFA Open Sheep Show and Open Goat Show. Similar events continue through Tuesday, July 4, when the midway officially opens at 5 p.m., followed by Family Fun Night and the return of the ever-popular peddle tractor pull at 6 p.m. Demolition derbies and truck and tractor pulls are among the fair's other events.

Paradise Amusements Inc. provides this year's midway, which has helped expand the fair's ride options in recent years.

"With the community's support, we've been able to expand our offerings as far as the midway goes," said Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show President Glenn Wright. "Those offerings bring fairgoers back for multiple nights. The more attendees we have, the more we can offer."

Admission to the Owen County 4-H Fair & Horse Show is $15 per person. Weekly fair passes are available at the Owen County Visitor Center & Gift Shop for $60, which includes rides. The passes are non-refundable. The Owen County Fair Board will not re-

place lost passes; no refunds will be available for bad weather.

Wide Open No Fear Rodeo

Produced by Crofton, Kentucky's Lone Star Rodeo Company, the Wide Open No Fear Rodeo has become

pTHE OWEN COUNTY 4-H FAIR & HORSE SHOW begins Saturday, July 1, and continues through Saturday, July 8. The event offers the usual fare, including rides and concessions, with a number of arena events, including two nights of demolition derbies and two nights of truck and tractor pulls. — Submitted photo

t THE WIDE OPEN NO FEAR RODEO takes place Friday, July 21, and Saturday, July 22. Entertainment begins each night at 7:30 p.m., with kids' events, including a best-dressed cowboy and cowgirl contest and kids gold rush for ages 10 and under. Live music will conclude Friday's events. — Photo by Jordan

Owen County's premier event of the season.

The inaugural event, held in July 2021, drew an estimated 6,000 spectators over a two-night span. The 2022 event rivaled those numbers, and organizers are confident this year will be no different.

Prather

The rodeo memorializes 2017 Owen County High School graduate Wyatt Cole, who died in a tragic 2019 car crash near the University of Tennessee Martin's campus. Cole was attending the university, majoring in agricultural business, and was a highly successful rodeo student-athlete.

Cole's rodeo accomplishments were extensive: he qualified multiple times for the National High School Finals Rodeo in both middle and high school and advanced to the finals of multiple collegiate rodeos during the 20182019 season.

After his death, his parents, Eden

Shale Farm residents Greg and Isabella Cole, created the Wyatt Cole Memorial Scholarship Fund and asked for donations in lieu of flowers.

In the following days and weeks, community members who recognized the significant impact of Wyatt's lifestyle on those around him began talks of a rodeo in his hometown supporting the scholarship fund. To date, the rodeo has raised nearly $50,000.

This year's event takes place Friday, July 21, and Saturday, July 22.

The entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m., with kids' events, including a

best-dressed cowboy and cowgirl contest and kids gold rush for ages 10 and under. The rodeo starts at 8 p.m. and includes bareback bronc riding, calf roping, saddle bronc riding, and cowgirls breakaway roping. Live music by The Ranahans will conclude Friday's events.

Tickets are on sale now, and available at the Owen County Visitor Center and Gift Shop, 300 S. Main St., Owenton, KY 40359, online at lonestarrodeo.com, or by calling 270-2696000. Tickets are $15 per adult, $10 per child (ages 4-12). Children ages 3 and under are admitted free. v

p THE WIDE OPEN NO FEAR RODEO'S events include bareback bronc riding, calf roping, saddle bronc riding, and cowgirls breakaway roping. In addition to the show, concessions are also available. Spectators will also have the opportunity to shop multiple vendors setup at the fairgrounds. — Photo by Jordan Prather

Playin’ those sweet tunes

p RON DEVORE, A FAITHFUL MEMBER OF THE KENTUCKY DULCIMER GATHERIN’ plays the traditional Appalachian tune “Black Mountain Rag” on a recent Tuesday afternoon at Owenton’s Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge. The Kentucky Dulcimer Gatherin’ began as a small group in Bedford, Kentucky, and has since grown to more than 30 participants.

By 2001, when the Kentucky Dulcimer became the state’s official instrument, many had all but forgotten its dulcet tones that once rang out across the hills and hollers of Appalachia.

With origins dating back to the 19th century, the dulcimer rose to popularity in the early 1950s when Viper, Kentucky, native Jean Ritchie landed a record deal and released her first

full-length album, “Singing the Traditional Songs of Her Kentucky Mountain Family.”

Rife with Appalachian heritage, Ritchie’s music landed in the hands of a younger generation, piquing the interest of songsters like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Joni Mitchell, whose stardom a decade later would put folk music back in the mainstream consciousness.

Although the dulcimer may have fallen from favor in the post-folk-revival years, many Kentuckians refuse to let the instrument’s melodies–and its historical significance–fade away.

Perhaps the earliest reference to the dulcimer is found in the Old Testament, when in Daniel 3, King Nebuchadnezzar erects an image of gold in Babylon, commanding people far and wide to fall down and worship the image when

PHOTOS + TEXT BY AMANDA ANDERSON MATTHEWS

Friendship, family, and fellowship with the Kentucky Dulcimer Gatherin’

“ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of musick.” (Daniel 3:5, KJV).

Vastly different from the dulcimer of King Nebuchadnezzar’s day, the Kentucky Dulcimer dates back to the early 1800s, having traveled to the Americas with the Germans to Pennsylvania and on to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.

Traditionally built in either an hourglass or teardrop shape, Kentucky Dulcimers, also referred to as the Mountain Dulcimer, were made to have three or four strings and were played on the lap, strummed with a turkey feather or a pick, while the melody string was fretted with a finer or a small wooden tool called a noter.

Since the 1970s, Berea, Kentucky’s Warren May has constructed Kentucky Dulcimers, prioritizing playability and the ease of learning and enjoying the instrument. Many of May’s creations are on full display each Tuesday at Owenton’s Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Lodge, courtesy of The Kentucky Dulcimer Gatherin’.

Keepin’ the tunes alive

In a way, the Kentucky Dulcimer Gatherin’ was born to continue the work of Jean Ritchie. Its mission is “to share, educate and entertain; to keep alive the history of the Kentucky dulcimer; to preserve the sweet sounds and unique playing styles of the Kentucky Dulcimer.” It had humble beginnings in an art studio in Bedford, Kentucky, where in 2012, Sharon Eggemeier began offering dulcimer lessons. Starting with 12 students, the group eventually grew to 27, playing each week at Carroll County First Baptist Church.

Then, in March 2020, the world stopped.

But even COVID-19 couldn’t keep the group apart. As soon as they were able, they reassembled at the Owenton IOOF Lodge from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. each Tuesday and on the third

Tuesday of each month at General Butler State Park in Carrollton.

Owen County native Betty Lusby explains that the group is more than just a band; they are a family, a fellowship.

“We’re a real close-knit group of people,” she said. “We look out for one another.”

“It’s the highlight of the week,” Pam Michels adds.

Made up of residents of Owen, Carroll, Henry, Trimble, Kenton, and Boone counties, the faithful participants celebrate birthdays, send get-well cards, and pray together at lunch.

music, or bring an instrument and play along.

Strummin’ with old and new players

Only some people in the group are tenured dulcimer players. As Mark Briggs relates in “The Dulcimer Handbook,” “There are no tried and true, right or wrong, sure-fire ways to play the dulcimer . . . The instrument is only as complex or as simple as you choose to make it.”

Anyone can take up the dulcimer at any age. Some group members, like Reba Hance, have played the instrument for decades. In fact, Warren May offered to sell Hance his first dulcimer in 1974 for $40. She turned him down due to what she believed to be a steep price tag.

“I was a widow with three young children, and it was a lot of money at the time,” she said. “I have regretted it ever since.”

Curt Beatty and Sharon Eggemeier have played music for more than 70 years. Beatty learned to play the dulcimer by chance when he showed up to a group of dulcimer players carrying his bouzouki. Mike Sparrow and Larry Dale Perry have played for more than 50 years, and Ron DeVore began in 1984. But that’s only the story for some.

And while they are primarily dulcimer players, there are a few other string and percussion instruments, including guitar, banjo, mandolin, keyboard, harmonica, rhythm shakers, spoons, a drum board, a train whistle, dobro, stand-up bass, and a bouzouki (Google that one).

To support the group’s mission, they visit various events and communities to share their music, from Heritage Days in Carrollton and the Scott County Public Library to the Owen County Christian Preschool.

For this group, it’s about playing and having fun while engaging the community with an essential part of Kentucky’s musical heritage. They invite the public to listen on any Tuesday, share their

While Eggemeier is a lifelong musician, she didn’t pick up the dulcimer until she was in her 50s. Delores Ginn, a retired nurse from Bedford, Kentucky, began playing when she received a Warren May dulcimer for Christmas in 2003. Betty Lusby began playing the dulcimer in 2018 and joined the group three years ago. One common theme that draws the players to the instrument is the sound and the history.

“I thank God every day for the dulcimer because I meet great people,” Becky DeBruler said.

Whether it’s a custom Warren May, a family heirloom plucked from the wall, or a cardboard kit from Etsy, pick up your dulcimer and play. The Gatherin’ is always excited to have new members. v

“I thank God every day for the dulcimer because I meet great people.

— Becky DeBruler Kentucky Dulcimer Gatherin’ participant

Introducing. . . . Staff Sgt. Kameron Kelly

BY MARLENE BROWNING-WAINSCOTT Sweet Owen Contributor

Kameron “Kam” Kelly enlisted in the United States Air Force in 2019 and currently holds the rank of staff sergeant. Stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, he serves as a crew chief and will deploy to Korea this month.

Kelly graduated from Owen County High School in 2018, where he excelled in academics and was a member of the soccer team. If you had asked the younger Kelly if he would become a member of the U.S. Air Force, it most likely never crossed his mind.

It wasn’t until May 2019, at the age of 19, that he decided to enlist.

“I’ve always had a fascination with aviation and saw this as an opportunity to get into the field,” he said. “The Air Force seemed to be the only option for me because of my passion for aviation. I had flown some smaller aircraft before and had the opportunity to gain some hands-on experience with aircraft maintenance, and I fell in love with it at a young age.

“The day I enlisted, I was very excited and a little scared of the unknown. I didn’t tell anyone I was joining until after I signed on the dotted line. I came home from the recruiter’s office with an ‘Air Force Mom’ sticker and tossed it to my mother to break the news.”

Imagining a military life and living a military life were two very different concepts for Kelly.

“I thought (basic training) would be this scary, miserable thing,” he continued. “It was challenging but not nearly as bad as I expected. Basic training was a blast, and while it was rigorous, we often had the opportunity to have a

little fun. On the last day of basic training, we had already graduated, and the Military Training Instructors had loosened up now that we were airmen. They had us do a recap of basic, and they asked us for our best impersonations of them. Let’s say we had our chance to get back at the eight weeks of pain they gave us, so we didn’t hold back. It was humorous.

“While being broken down and built back up may not seem fun, it instilled the discipline and hard work needed to perform my job and made every second worth it. I often refer to myself and my friends as ‘professional children.’ My career field is tough outside work, long hours, and highstress scenarios, but our humor keeps us going. Any new guy that comes around typically has to do some funny tasks that they have no idea is a joke. I’ll let your imagination take the rest of that one.”

Adapting to military life is challenging and vastly different from the life Kelly left in Owen County. One thing he recalls during his transition to the expectations of the Air Force is the high standards expected of each new airman.

“You become used to being held to a high standard and a 0% failure rate in every task,” Kelly explained. “It really trickles down into every little detail of your life.”

Crew Chief Kelly

Kelly is currently a crew chief for the A-10 Thunderbolt “Warthog.” The A-10 Thunderbolt is a twin-engine close air support aircraft known for its extensive use during Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The aircraft’s mission is ground attacks against tanks, armored vehicles, and installations, along with close air support of ground forces.

“As the Warthog crew chief, I take care of and coordinate all the maintenance on the aircraft,” Kelly said. “We maintain the aircraft much like a car mechanic. If it breaks, we’re the specialists that fix it. I’m the person who helps the pilot get the jet in the air, and I’m the last person the pilot sees and talks to on the ground before a flight.

“My fondest memory is seeing an A10 return from a flight completely empty of all armament. Knowing that the aircraft you got in the air could complete the missions successfully, do its job, and return in one piece because you could do your job successfully was an amazing feeling.”

In 2022, Kelly received the prestigious Maintenance Professional of the Year award, 358th Fighter Squadron, reflecting his outstanding accomplishments as crew chief.

Later that year, Kelly received orders to deploy to South Korea in June 2023 for one year to apply his expertise as crew chief in an overseas mission.

“Imagine you’ve practiced a sport for several years, but you’ve never gotten to play in a game; that’s how I see

deployments,” he said. “Every day, we do real-life maintenance for the pilots to train to deploy. Deployments are the ‘game day.’ It’s the real-world scenario that you’ve put in so much time and effort to prepare for.”

While he will miss time with family and friends while deployed, Kelly expressed excitement about serving his country overseas.

Meet Kaitlyn Kelly

Kelly met his wife, Kaitlyn Parker, while in high school.

“She was a very kind, easy-going gal,” he said. “I knew she was the one for me because when I was not around her, it just wasn’t fun. Being separated from her for several years was difficult when I first joined. It was tough, but we had to make time for each other every single day.”

After their four-year-long-distance-relationship, the two were married April 22, 2023, in Owenton. After the wedding, the couple moved to Missouri, where Kam continued his duties at Whiteman AFB and prepared for deployment.

Kam reflected on their new life together, saying, “We are going to enjoy life and face any obstacles it throws at us. I know we will travel a lot as that’s part of the military lifestyle, so I want to enjoy seeing the world as a family.”

Kaitlyn addressed her new role as a military spouse, expressing pride in her new husband.

“It’s been interesting being on the other side after being long-distance for four years—being recognized by the military now makes me feel supported,” Kaitlyn said. “Being a part of the process of receiving my dependent card and asking questions has been very rewarding. I will be going to visit him during his deployment in Korea. I plan to go overseas to see him in December to spend our first Christmas together.”

Thoughts on service

When asked about one word that will never be the same since joining the Air Force, Kam answered, “change.”

“I’ve always seen ‘change’ as a negative word,” he said. “Prior to being in the Air Force, I always wanted to be idle and stay the same. I’ve been pushed a lot, always facing change, and it’s always been better than I could have imagined. During my time in the Air Force, I have become more responsible, disciplined, and a leader.”

Change has become an integral part of Kam’s life. As civilians, we often forget the sacrifices made by our military men and women who have dedicated their lives to serve their country. Uprooted from everything they’ve ever known—leaving their family and friends behind—to protect those they’ve never met and will never know.

“It can be very hard, no matter who you are,” Kam said. “The military lifestyle changed every aspect of my

life for the better. Without it, I wouldn’t even be close to the person I am today. It’s pushed me to my full potential. There is definitely risk involved, but the rewards and friendships that have come out of it are things that I will never forget. I wouldn’t change any of it for the world.”

“Kam has been such a hard worker,” Kaitlyn concludes. “He has taken every task by himself, head on. It’s been amazing seeing him fulfill his potential and beyond and become the man he is today. I’m glad I’ve been able to support and encourage him in his journey. I’m honored to be his wife and friend.”

***

When Staff Sgt. Kelly deploys to serve his country overseas this month, Sweet Owen Magazine will share his address on its social media pages for those who want to send him a letter or card from home. To Kam and all our past and present military members, we thank you for your service.

p UNITED STATES AIR FORCE STAFF SGT. KAMERON KELLY AND WIFE KAITLYN pose for a photo before a recent Air Force Ball. The couple met in high school and were wed earlier this year. The two moved to Missouri where Kam is stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base and is preparing for deployment to Korea.

McNally House of

MY GREAT-GRANDMOTHER was Fanny Rose. She and her family lived on Main Street in Owenton, in what is now known as the Owen County Historical Society & Museum. I imagine her in that tiny kitchen, adding this dressing to a salad she prepared, maybe on a Sunday afternoon for dinner. This dressing has been used in my family for generations. Blended in a jar and placed in the middle of the dinner table, then passed around with bread. Add this to any salad of your choice. It’s especially delicious in pasta with fresh broccoli and cauliflower. Depending on the type of oil and vinegar, the color will change. Enjoy!

Granny's Dressing

1 cup sugar

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. dry mustard

1 tsp. celery seed

1/2 cup red wine vinegar (you can substitute with white vinegar)

1 cup oil (preferably vegetable or canola)

Mix sugar and spices together, blend in the vinegar and slowly add the oil. Mix in the celery seeds with a spoon and serve chilled.

u LYNDSI MCNALLY is a resident of Owen County, wife, and mother of two boys. She makes her living as a Family Support Worker for HANDS at the Three Rivers District Health Department and often entertains her hundreds of Facebook followers by sharing photos of home-cooked meals.

Archie is an 8-month-old mix (possibly Golden Retriever/Australian Shepherd) who is great with kids, other dogs, cats, and chickens. He weighs approximately 25 lbs. and is unlikely to get much larger.

Meet"Archie"

All about Archie

Age: 8 months

Gender: Male

Life with Archie: Archie is crate trained, loves car rides, playing fetch, and snuggling

Ready to meet Archie? Call Elizabeth at (502) 750-1673 or text Hilari at (502) 514-1897

Where to stay?

Adventure Bound Camping Resorts: Eagle Valley

1100 Eagle Valley Rd. | Sanders, KY 41083 (502) 347-9361 | abcamping.com/eaglevalley

Adventure Bound Eagle Valley is a family-friendly RV park and campground located in Sanders. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting vacation destination, you’ve picked the right place!

Adventure Bound’s RV park and campground offers a variety of accommodation options, camping sites and rental cabins, to suit every camper’s needs Take a break from the heat at the on-site water park, featuring a refreshing swimming pool and thrilling water slides.

What to eat?

Carpenter Lane Coffee Company

101 W Seminary St | Owenton, KY 40359

(502) 750-1522 | carpenter-lane-coffee-co square site

Coffee shop offering a full breakfast and lunch menu that includes Kentucky favorites such as "The Oxford," a hot brown with turkey, ham, bacon, tomato, and white cheddar mornay toasted Healthy options include a protein smoothie and protein oatmeal. Salads available!

SummerREADS

BY AMANDA ANDERSON MATTHEWS

Are you looking for fiction to add to your summer reading list? Amanda Anderson Matthews provides her top-two novels to take along on your 2023 beach vacation.

In her debut novel, "Lessons in Chemistry," Bonnie Garmus takes readers to the fictional post-war era town of Commons, California, where chemist Elizabeth Zott finds herself navigating a male-dominated world. Everyone knows a woman's place is "in the kitchen," where Zott reluctantly finds herself, except hers is a fake kitchen facing a live television audience. As the star of "Supper at Six," Zott dishes out recipes with a scientific flare, encouraging her predominately female audience to challenge the status quo while managing sudden tragedies and revelations within her personal life.

As someone who doesn't read a lot of fiction, I was completely absorbed in this story. The characters are engaging; even the dog has a depth of personality that sucks you in—especially the dog. The story made me laugh, made me rage, and punched me in the gut, aching for the characters as they navigated the terrible situations and incredibly loving and tender moments.

I definitely judged the book by its cover, thinking it would be a cheeky

rom-com, chick-lit book. It was not. Will it appeal to a male audience? Probably not. But it was a much smarter book than I was expecting. We are given a strong, smart, stubborn, and flawed female protagonist making her way in the world the best way she knows how for her and her daughter. I recommend this book with the advice of not overthinking it. There are looming questions for me regarding the book's accuracy, but at the end of the day, it's a work of fiction, and I was wildly entertained. I'll not worry too much about whether the author did a bang-up job researching every detail. It's fine. She won me over with her exquisite characters and deft storytelling. Put this on your reading list this summer. You won't be sorry.

"Fairy

by Stephen King is the story of Charlie Reade, a special young boy, Mr. Bowditch, a cranky old man in need, and his dog, Radar. It's the story of an unlikely friendship, Charlie's journey to save Radar's life, and in order to do so, another world.

This is a book to read if you are looking for an introduction to Stephen King. He's not for everyone, to be sure. After I read this book, I immediately recommended it to my fantasy-loving husband because it is a break from his traditional tales and is a nod to fantasy and fairy tales.

Fairy Tale will appeal to folks who love adventure stories and hero quests. There is suspense, much like in any Star Wars story, our hero comes up against adversity, but terror is absent. If you have avoided Stephen King in the past because of his content, this is an excellent introduction to his writing. King is a master storyteller, and this book is no exception. If you enjoy books or movies like The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, His Dark Materials: the Golden Compass, this book will appeal to you.

I have been recommending this book to people left and right because it's a great way to read Stephen King if you don't like scary stories. King is one of my favorite authors; whenever I think he is a good fit, I recommend him. In the introduction to the novel, he writes that he was attempting to write a book that would make him happy during COVID-19. He refers to many of his favorite stories and things that bring him joy in this book. He writes his own fairytale. This is a hero's journey written by a master that won't disappoint.

Tale"

Paddle (or fish) your cares away

BY BRIAN RIDDLE Sweet Owen Contributor

When the school bells ring for the final time and the traditional Memorial Day barbecues take place, it’s officially summertime in Owen County. Many residents flock to pools while others stay inside where it’s cool, but many will head out in watercraft of their choice to the many waterways Owen County provides.

Whether you own a pontoon, bass boat, or johnboat, there are many waterways to enjoy, including Kentucky River Pools 2 and 3, Elmer Davis Lake, and many creeks across the county with boating and fishing access. But for some, a less expensive way to fish and enjoy the water is in a canoe or kayak.

While canoeing is an ancient mode of transportation, it’s grown in popularity in recent years, especially during the pandemic when indoor-weary families sought recreational activities.

Owen County offers excellent fishing opportunities and public access points, with parking for canoes and kayaks, including the Kentucky River, Elmer Davis Lake, and Eagle Creek. Anglers will need a current Kentucky fishing license, and if using a watercraft with more than a paddle, they must have it licensed through their local county clerk’s office (this includes any trolling or gas motor).

June provides great fishing opportunities via canoe or kayak on Elmer Davis Lake from either of the two public ramps and access points. Anglers can expect great action catching bluegill,

crappie, and bass near the bank’s weed beds and around structures using an artificial worm, white grub, or popeye tipped with a wax worm. Live bait, including minnows or red worms, never fails. River and creek anglers can catch small-mouth bass, redeye, and sunfish on a white or black rooster tail, plastic grub, or live bait.

Anglers should consult the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Fishing and Boating Guide for exact rules and regulations, as well as size and creel limits on fish.

With bait, sunscreen, a watercraft of your choice, and a little luck, you’ll make great memories with your family for years to come. v

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