Sweet Owen Magazine | Winter 2023

Sweet Owen

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A CELEBRATION OF LIFE IN OWEN COUNTY, KENTUCKY l VOL. II | ISSUE 9 | WINTER 2023

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Contents

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A magical Christmas tradition

‘DemoGate’ Christmas Renovation

Winter calendar

Volunteers help bring North Pole magic to Owen County’s annual Santa’s Castle event

A home remodeling saga filled with design dilemmas and quartzite quandaries

Winter has arrived and we've got a complete list of upcoming events for the entire family

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Bookish Behavior

Unforgettable Ireland

House of McNally

Owen County’s literary landscape: discovering community and connection through book clubs

Journey through Ireland’s historic castles, scenic landscapes and vibrant cities

Nothing says comfort food like carbs and dairy, a theory proven by House of McNally’s winter recipe

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It doesn’t end at the hunt

Cozy winter reads

Owen County Christmas Parade

Beyond the hunting sport: Embracing sustainability, family traditions, and culinary adventures

Check out Sweet Owen’s top picks for winter reading—selected for both adults and young readers!

Santa Claus is coming to town!

Don’t miss the annual Owen County Christmas Parade

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JOIN OUR TEAM OWEN COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSIT IS HIRING DRIVERS! COUNTY BENEFITS, STATE RETIREMENT, FLEXIBLE HOURS, PAID HOLIDAYS TO APPLY, VISIT HTTPS://WWW.OWENCOUNTYKY.US/ CAREER-OPPORTUNITIES FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS REQUIRE CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS AND PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING.

sweet owen + welcome

Sweet Owen W

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE IN OWEN COUNTY, KENTUCKY

© 2023, Owen County Tourism Commission Volume II, Issue 9 December 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 Shadoe Aldridge, Member Sean O’Daniel, Member

Contributors Whitney Prather Duvall, Amanda Anderson Matthews, Lyndsi McNally, Kelly Rodamer, and Georgia Green Stamper For advertising information, email editor@sweetowenmag.com or call 502-330-8813 To submit an event, letter to the editor, or suggest story ideas, email editor@sweetowenmag.com.

Upcoming submission deadlines: 4 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, for Spring 2024 Published quarterly by the Owen County Tourism Commission “... find yourself here” 300 S. Main St., Owenton, KY 40359 502-563-5050 www.visitowencountyky.org

elcome to the winter edition of Sweet Owen Magazine, a publication that has become as much a part of Owen County as the rolling hills and winding river that define our landscape. As we celebrate our second anniversary, this issue is a tribute to the enduring spirit of our community, a collection of stories and memories that resonate with the heart of Owen County in the winter.

Our journey through these pages begins under the twinkling lights of the Santa’s Castle event, a festive tradition that brings the magic of the holiday season to life in Owen County. This feature captures the joy and wonder of this beloved event, a place where children’s laughter mingles with the jingle of sleigh bells and the air is filled with the spirit of Christmas. We take you behind the scenes, showcasing the tireless efforts of local volunteers who transform the Owen County Cooperative Extension Office into a winter wonderland each year.

In keeping with our tradition of giving voice to local talent, we are honored to include an essay from Georgia Green Stamper, a beloved figure and a profound storyteller in our community. Her words, steeped in wisdom and warmth, offer a reflective pause in our busy lives, reminding us of the simple joys and deep-rooted values that make Owen County not just a place on the map, but a home.

A highlight of this issue is our feature article on Owen County’s book clubs.

These clubs are not just gatherings for literary discussions; they are vibrant communities where friendships are forged, ideas are shared, and the love for literature is celebrated. We explore how these clubs have become integral to our cultural fabric, bringing together diverse voices and fostering a shared passion for reading.

As winter sets in, hunting season takes center stage in Owen County. Our article on recipes for deer hunting is more than just a culinary guide; it’s a homage to a tradition that has been passed down through generations. These recipes, rich in flavor and history, are a testament to the skill and respect our hunters have for the land and its bounty. We share some of the most cherished recipes from a local hunting family, dishes that warm the body and soul after a day in the woods.

As we mark two years of Sweet Owen Magazine, we reflect on the stories we’ve told and the connections we’ve fostered. This magazine has become a tapestry of our community’s life, woven with the threads of your stories, your achievements, and your dreams.

So, as winter sets in, we invite you to curl up with this edition of Sweet Owen.

Let the stories within these pages warm your heart and remind you of the beauty and strength of our community.

Happy reading, and happy second anniversary to all of us at Sweet Owen Magazine!

Molly Haines Riddle u ABOUT THE COVER Owen County Photographer Joy Towles Spencer (J Kathryn Photography) is the winter edition’s featured photographer. Want to see your photos in print? Send to editor@sweetowenmag.com.

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sweet owen + volunteers

A magical Christmas tradition Volunteers help bring North Pole magic to Owen County’s annual Santa’s Castle event

BY KELLY RODAMER Sweet Owen Contributor

A m a g i c a l c a s t l e e n t ra n c e , Christmas music playing, teens donned as shopping elves, and Homemakers staged as gift-wrapping elves—it must be time for Santa’s Castle.

Since 1985, Santa’s Castle has offered a little piece of North Pole magic to Owen County’s children.

Originally an idea from Homemaker Pat Wolcott as a way to raise money for underfunded children’s projects in the area, Santa’s Castle is now one of the county’s most anticipated events of the year.

The history of Santa’s Castle is as rich as the sweetest Christmas cocoa. The first Santa’s Castles were held in the old library, now the Owen County Senior Center, because space at the Extension Office was limited. The iconic wooden castle entrance was designed and painted

by Homemaker Nancy Wiggs with assistance from members of the Silhouette Club. The original wooden walls remain today, and only last year did they require a first touch-up to the paint.

As the popularity of Santa’s Castle grew, more space was needed to accommodate the shopping experience. For three years, Owenton First

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p SINCE 1985, SANTA’S CASTLE HAS OFFERED A LITTLE PIECE OF NORTH POLE MAGIC TO OWEN COUNTY CHILDREN. The event, originally an idea from Homemaker Pat Wolcott, began as a way to raise money for underfunded children’s projects in the area. Santa’s Castle is now one of the county’s most anticipated events of the year. — Submitted photo

Baptist Church opened its fellowship hall as a makeshift North Pole. Since 1997, however, the event has been held in its current location at the Owen County Cooperative Extension Office.

The idea is simple—allow children in Owen County to shop for Christmas presents for their families at an affordable price. For just $5, children could pick out five

gifts and take them home already wrapped to put under the tree. Within the last decade, the Owen County Homemakers have increased the number of gifts to seven per child without increasing the entry fee for Santa’s Castle. Owen County Homemaker Dawn Davis explains, “Families are larger these days, and we see more blended families, so this helps put more gifts from the

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children under the tree.”

“Santa’s Castle is an important piece of the fabric of our community.

The economy is hard, and Christmas time can be harder. This program provides a positive resource for kids that is accessible across the community,” Homemaker Alea Hubbard explained.

“Few families can take their kids to the store and let them pick out whatever seven gifts they want without breaking the bank. But many families can take their kids to Santa’s Castle for just $5 per kid.”

The shopping experience has b e e n t h o ro u g h l y p l a n n e d a n d tweaked over the years. Children ages 3-12 enter through the magical castle entrance and are greeted with tables full of handmade items, toys, candles, books, games, mugs, candy, and more. With a designated shopping elf by their side, children meticulously shop, taking their list and checking it twice. Once they’ve selected gifts for the lucky recipients on their Christmas lists, they can go to check-out where they pay for their selections, and an entourage of volunteers eagerly wait to wrap each gift. The gifts are labeled so they are under-the-tree-ready as soon as the children leave.

The excitement is electric and contagious as children exit the shopping hub.

“I love how excited the kids are about doing their own shopping,” local mom Megan Babik said. “Santa’s Castle lets my kids have complete control of the gift they are giving rather than me doing the shopping and putting their name on the tag. My kids love to give gifts, and this allows them to choose something special.”

With nearly 200 children coming through Santa’s Castle each year, the event’s success heavily relies on community volunteers. Owen County Extension Agent for Family and

Consumer Sciences Chelsea Young details the need for volunteers.

“There are many ways to get involved, and it really does take a lot of people behind the scenes and on the day of the event,” Young said. “At a minimum, we need 37 volunteers during the event, or we can’t operate smoothly. More hands make merrier work, though!”

Volunteers start preparing for Santa’s Castle as the clock turns to midnight, ushering in a new year.

Throughout the year, collections are made of homemade gifts, trinkets, treasures, and more to create a oneof-a-kind shop.

As the event draws closer, Young and the Homemakers begin preparations for a visit from Santa Claus, making bags and wrapping products, creating advertisements, and working through logistics. The week of the event, the Homemakers set up the shop and organize the shopping experience. The goal is to create a magical experience for the children year after year.

“It’s important to note that this is a generational event,” Davis adds. “My mom was active with Santa’s Castle, and I watched the time she put into making quilted pillows and decorating for the event. I love to shop deals and clearance racks year-round, so I keep a tote at home specifically for items to donate for Santa’s Castle.

And now, my daughter is involved as a shopping helper and decorator.”

Young stresses the importance of the children who have aged out of shopping at Santa’s Castle being welcomed back to volunteer. Since the proceeds are now primarily used as a scholarship fund, she encourages middle and high schoolers to get involved. “Not only will they get to continue in the magic they experienced as children, but they can earn volunteer hours for school and one

day may even be the recipient of our scholarship.”

Volunteering can be easy, and anyone in Owen County is welcome to help. The biggest need throughout the year is the collection and donation of new or gently used/good condition items for the family. The shopping lists range from newborn siblings to great-grandparents, so a variety of donations is always appreciated. Davis recommends collecting items in a tote and bringing them up closer to the event, with your name clearly marked on the tote for easy collection.

Hubbard details how she gives back, “After birthdays and holidays, I go through my kids’ toys and pull out the ones they have never played with or have outgrown. If a toy is in good condition, I take it to Santa’s Castle. I know it’s going to a good home, and it’s not being wasted as a dust collector at my house.”

Aside from donations, help with set-up and tear-down is always welcome. Young says it takes about two days to set up for the two-hour event.

Tear-down takes less time.

On the day of, door greeters, list makers, shopping buddies, money collectors, and gift wrappers can be in short supply. Anyone looking to volunteer can contact Chelsea Young at the Owen County Extension Office by calling 502-484-5703.

Santa’s Castle has kept the same traditions alive for nearly 40 years, with only a few minor tweaks to accommodate growing families and community needs. This year, the time has changed, and Santa will be available for pictures. The shop will be open from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2. Families do not need to RSVP to attend.

All are invited to attend this year’s Santa’s Castle and experience just a little North Pole magic in Owenton. v

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sweet owen + life

The ‘DemoGate’ Christmas renovation

BY GEORGIA GREEN STAMPER

T

p GEORGIA GREEN STAMPER grew up on a tobacco farm in Owen County.

Her third book of essays, “Small Acreages” is now available.

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his year — though our holiday will cradle the religious traditions we hold dear, time with family, and the music and flavors of the season — will be forever etched in our memory as The DemoGate Christmas. But I should begin DemoGate’s byzantine story at its beginning...

In April, when we were still vacuuming December’s pine needles from forgotten corners, Ernie’s chronic back problems escalated. Leaning over our 30-year-old bathroom sink, which stood an old-fashioned 30 inches from the floor, aggravated it even more.

“Well, let’s replace it with a taller one like they put in new houses,” I said. All the big box stores had such cabinets on display. However, before I could reach for the car keys to dart off to Home Depot, we both had an epiphany. If we were going to replace the old vanity, why not replace the 30-year-old shower with a snazzier-looking version and the stained and cracked bathtub, too? And wait — if we knocked out a wall, we could create the walk-in closet of our dreams!

Yes, we have watched too much HGTV. Soon, however, we realized we were only home remodelers in our fantasies. Confusion set in.

“Yeah, if we’re going to do this much, we probably need one of those design-places to help us.” The impressive design-place guy showed up on Friday, talking smooth, and promised to get back to us on Monday with plans, pricing, and schedules.

After multiple unanswered calls to him over the next two weeks, we learned through the grapevine that he was having “family problems.”

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Undaunted, we engaged another design place, and that fellow took off like a racehorse. He buried us in an avalanche of samples and sketches. We made our choices and independently engaged a carpenter to knock out the wall to create the new closet. The wall came crashing down on July 5, and design-guy came out on the morning of July 7 to finalize the details for the bathroom fixtures and pretties before ordering. That afternoon, he was fired.

But not to worry, his boss said — one of their other staff would assist us.

The replacement design-guy called once, and then, poof! He vanished.

Was he fired, too? Or were we doing something to drive away these design people? “Well, I didn’t say anything to offend them. I did my best to flatter them. What did you say to them?” I asked.

“Me?” Ernie replied. And so it went, each of us insisting we’d given our likable, tactful best to these prickly, brittle folks.

Since we now had a gaping cavity between the bathroom and the rest of the house, however, we had to hustle on and find yet another design place to supply the fancy stuff for the bathroom.

“Your wall is already gone?” The design woman gasped as she uttered that question. “But it will take a minimum of 10 weeks to order a custom cabinet, and if you want quartzite — you do want quartzite, don’t you, in the

shower?”

To be honest, I’d never heard of quartzite. I’d seen marble in old bank buildings, and we replaced our Formica kitchen countertops with granite about 10 years ago.

But it turns out this quartzite stuff is whacked out of the ground, too, and is the new “in” rock for bathroom showers. Never having been “in” before on a new trend, we said, “Sure!”

The quartzite men came out to measure and stood around with worried looks. Would our old house collapse under the weight of 900 lbs. of stone?

But after banging on all the studs in the basement and in the walls and the roof, it was determined that the house was up to the job. Relieved, we realized that we now wanted quartzite more than anything we’d ever wanted before. How quickly the soul is surrendered to vanity!

And so, we committed to quartzite, the Rubicon of bathroom remodeling, and there was no turning back. Little did we know then the measuring for quartzite would never end, that it would be recalibrated again and again before every single inch was irrevocably cut.

Before the quartzite could be touched, however, the shower floor and drain had to be installed out of — guess what — old-fashioned tile. This required a different installer because the quartzite people don’t touch tile.

And the tile guys don’t do drains — plumbers do those — but somehow,

they have to get the tile ready for the plumber — and the plumber can’t plumb until the tile is done and — well, you get the idea. We, of course, needed an oddly shaped drain in an odd color, and the tile guys (or maybe the plumber) had never seen one before.

But after multiple false starts over the next month (and only one punctured water pipe), the shower drain was installed, and the tile floor was completed.

About this time, I began to worry that Ernie and I would not live long enough to see the project completed.

Or we’d be in a rest home, and the kids would sell the house to ingrates with no taste who’d rip out the quartzite and the exquisite linear drain and — oh, how I grew to resent those people who were going to one day live in our house and ruin it.

But I’ve made my peace with them.

Life is short, after all, and the last laugh will be on them anyway because I know how long it would take them to remodel this bathroom again. Indeed, our painter will still be here long after we are gone, and the custom shower door will still be on backorder.

The holidays are upon us now, and we’ve decided to go ahead and host a DemoGate open house on Christmas Eve in our unfinished bathroom. Or maybe we’ll aim for Valentine’s Day or the 4th of July. But y’all stop by, OK? (Anyone have a recipe for bathtub gin)? v

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sweet owen + events

EVENTS

“What fire could ever equal the sunshine of a winter’s day?” — Henry David Thoreau

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., Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, for the Spring 2024 edition.

Friday, Dec. 1 Noon, Books@Noon at the Owen County Public Library The Books@Noon club will discuss “Hill Women” by Cassie Chambers.

Saturday, Dec. 2 9-11 a.m., Santa’s Castle at the Owen County Cooperative Extension Office Santa is headed to the Owen County Extension Office. Make sure all children ages 3-12 have their lists ready to shop for seven family members and friends.

Lots of handmade gifts by the Owen County Extension Homemakers.

Friday, Dec. 1-Sunday, Dec. 3 Buck Ridge Farms Presents Christmas Market and Festival On the Farm Located at 4690 Jonesville Road, Dry Ridge, Kentucky, 41035, The Barn at Buck Ridge Farm will host its Christmas Market and Festival On the Farm with vendors, crafters, food trucks, wine and spirits, petting zoo, hot air balloon glow (Saturday), train rides, and much more. Admission is $5 (16 and under admitted for free). Event times: 6-10 p.m., Friday; 4-10 p.m., Saturday, and noon-4 p.m., Sunday.

Monday, Dec. 4 10 a.m., Stretch & Strengthen Exercise at the Owen County Public Library Are you wanting to strengthen your core? Join in on the 45-minute all

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p FAYE SHELTON PERFORMS AT THE 2022 OWEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA. This year’s event is scheduled for 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14. In addition to music by the fireplace, the event also promises Christmas crafts for children and teens, make or take gingerbread house, and a visit from Santa between 5:30-7:30 p.m. — Photo courtesy of the Owen County Public Library

standing exercises. Follow along with KET personality Miranda EsmondeWhite on the big screen. This event repeats at 10 a.m. every Monday.

3:15 p.m., Drop-In Christmas Ceramics at the Owen County Public Library Stop by to choose from a variety of ceramics pieces to add to your holiday

decor. Art for all ages. Bring yourself or the entire family.

Tuesday, Dec. 5 Storytime at the Owen County Public Library Come hear stories about the Gingerbread Man and make your own gingerbread

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people! This program is for young children and their parent or caregiver.

Storytime repeats at 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday when school is in session.

Wednesday, Dec. 6 10:30 a.m., Baby Time at the Owen County Public Library Read books, sing songs, and make a special craft. This program is intended for children 0-18 months and their parent or caregiver. Please call the library at 502484-3450 to register.

Thursday, Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 6 p.m., Easy Holiday Treats at the Owen County Public Library Prepare easy treats for holiday snacking and gift giving. Group participation will be encouraged. This program is for adults and children 12 and up with an adult.

7 p.m., A Mayberry Christmas Play at the Owen County Courthouse “A Mayberry Christmas” is back! For tickets to this year’s production, held in the upstairs courtroom of the Owen County Courthouse, 100 N. Thomas St., Owenton, visit the courthouse between 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Mondays leading up to the play.

Friday, Dec. 8 5:30-9:30 p.m., Live Music at Elk Creek Winery Enjoy live music from Lewis Mathis at Elk Creek Winery, 150 KY 330, Owenton.

7 p.m., A Mayberry Christmas Play at the Owen County Courthouse “A Mayberry Christmas” is back! For tickets to this year’s production, held in the upstairs courtroom of the Owen County Courthouse, 100 N. Thomas St., Owenton, visit the courthouse between 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Mondays leading up to the play.

Saturday, Dec. 9 1-7 p.m., Owen County Christmas Parade + Events Enjoy a day of Christmas cheer on the Owen County Courthouse Square! The annual Christmas parade will begin at

5:30 p.m., but come early to Christmas shop, enjoy the Bellator trackless train, caroling on the courthouse lawn, and much more!

2 p.m. and 7 p.m., A Mayberry Christmas Play at the Owen County Courthouse “A Mayberry Christmas” is back! For tickets to this year’s production, held in the upstairs courtroom of the Owen County Courthouse, 100 N. Thomas St., Owenton, visit the courthouse between 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Mondays leading up to the play.

Tuesday, Dec. 12 1 p.m., Christmas Carol Sing-Along at the Owen County Senior Center Gather around the piano to sing Christmas Carols, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, and make a Christmas ornament to take home. The Owen County Senior Center is located at 118 North Main Street, Owenton.

Thursday, Dec. 14 5-7 p.m., Christmas Extravaganza at the Owen County Public Library Make a gingerbread house at the library or drop in between 5-7 p.m. to pick up a kit to complete at home; children and teen Christmas crafts for decorating or gift giving; music by the fireplace; Santa visits from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 15 2 p.m., Mystery Book Club at the Owen County Public Library Participants will discuss Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None.” Pick up “The Last Noel” by Heather Graham for next month.

5:30-9:30 p.m., Live Music at Elk Creek Winery Enjoy live music from Tracy Thompson/ Elaine at Elk Creek Winery, 150 KY 330, Owenton.

Tuesday, Dec. 19 10:30 a.m., Pancakes and Pajamas at the Owen County Public Library Join Miss Kaleigh for a Pancake and Pajama Party. Wear your favorite Christmas jam-

mies, eat pancakes and celebrate Christmas break. Children of all ages welcome.

Thursday, Dec. 21 First Day of Winter 6 p.m., Gordon’s Gourmet at the Owen County Public Library Chef Gordon will discuss and demonstrate the process of Wellington and how to use it with a variety of meats.

Sunday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Monday, Dec. 25 Christmas Day Saturday, Dec. 30 5:30-9:30 p.m., Live Music at Elk Creek Winery Enjoy live music from Jake Walz at Elk Creek Winery, 150 KY 330, Owenton.

Sunday, Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Monday, Jan. 1 New Year’s Day Monday, Jan. 15 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Tuesday, Jan. 16 6 p.m., Painting 101 at the Owen County Public Library Learn basic painting and composition techniques every third Tuesday of the month. Beginners are welcome! Register at 502-484-3450.

Thursday, Jan. 25 11 a.m., Walk Away the Pounds at the Owen County Public Library Join others for motivation to walk for 30 minutes. Follow a video and the time passes quickly. Walk your way to better health.

What are you waiting for? Registration required.

Wednesday, Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day

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ANNUAL MEETING JANUARY 11, 2024 LOCATION TBA

Join us for

CATERED MEAL MUSIC AWARDS SILENT AUCTION Owen County Chamber of Commerce

www.owencountykychamber.com

Best wishes for a healthy, happy holiday season! ’Tis the Season to be Well!

As the holiday lights twinkle and joy fills the air, let’s not forget the most precious gift of all —your health! Three Rivers District Health Department wishes you and your loved ones a season filled with wellness and happiness.

60 Old Monterey Road | Owenton, Kentucky 40359 www.trdhd.com @trdhd (502) 484-3412

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sweetowenmag.com + winter 2023

sweet owen

What are you craving?

BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER Since 1974, Family Billiards & Restaurant's core values have remained intact: great food, friendly service, and hometown pride. Whether you're new in town or just passing through, we invite you to join us for your next meal — a generous portion of mouthwatering, handcrafted comfort food.

133 N. Madison St., Owenton, KY 40359 (502) 484-5996 6 a.m.-8 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Closed Saturday & Sunday

The Owenton City Council & Owenton Police Department

Welcome you to the City of Owenton

220 Main Street, Owenton, KY 40359 | P: 502.484.2313 | F: 502.484.5156

sweetowenmag.com + winter 2023 15

sweet owen + clubs

p PATTY GREENE, COURTNEY ROBERTS, LYNDSI McNALLY, TANA CULBERTSON, and LEE McINTOSH, a few members of the Bookish Behavior book club, meet monthly at Elk Creek Winery. Bookish Behavior is just one of Owen County’s many book clubs. — Photo by Amanda Anderson Matthews

BOOKISH BEHAVIOR

BY AMANDA ANDERSON MATTHEWS Sweet Owen Contributor When you think of book clubs, you might conjure images of women sipping wine and exchanging gossip.

While that might be true for some, book clubs are more than just social gatherings; they are vibrant communities fostering social connections, expanding knowledge, and promoting literacy. In Owen County, book clubs have become a cornerstone of community engagement, bringing readers together to explore diverse literary worlds and share their thoughts.

Whether you’re a mystery enthusi-

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ast, a fan of female protagonists, or someone seeking deep, meaningful discussions, Owen County has a book club tailored just for you.

The phenomenon of book clubs gained significant momentum when Oprah Winfrey introduced her book club in 1996. This initiative not only boosted book sales but also lent valuable support to authors and fueled a nationwide passion for reading. Many books now come equipped with discussion questions tailored for book clubs. Oprah’s selections span a diverse range of genres, enticing readers to venture beyond their usual comfort zones.

Notably, Reese Witherspoon has also embarked on her own literary journey by establishing a book club.

Her mission is to spotlight books featuring female protagonists and support female authors. Additionally, prominent entities like PBS and The New York Times have created the “Now Read This” book club. Their book selections are based on the merit and timeliness of the content, offering readers an ideal gateway into the world of book clubs.

Owen County has fostered its own vibrant book club scene, mirroring a collective passion for reading and community-building. A prime source

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for bookish gatherings is the Owen County Library, which currently hosts two book clubs: “Books at Noon” and the “Mystery Book Club.” These clubs are expertly guided by librarian Lorraine Scott.

Books at Noon encompasses a wide array of genres, including general fiction, works by Kentucky authors, cozy mysteries, and historical fiction.

The Mystery Book Club, as the name suggests, delves deep into the enigmatic world of mysteries. Despite the varied tastes of the participants, the sense of community is what keeps them coming back.

When asked about her favorite book from the “Books at Noon” club, Scott struggled to choose just one.

“That’s a tough choice,” she said.

“John Hart’s ‘The Last Child’ was amazing. ‘Three Weeks to Say Goodbye’ by C.J. Box is a favorite.”

For Ann Bush, an Owen County resident, the allure of the Mystery Book Club extends beyond just the books.

“I just love to come to the library,” Bush explained. “I love to read; I read all the time.”

Books at Noon meets at the library at noon on the first Friday of each month. Upcoming selections for the club include “Hill Women” by Cassie Chambers in December and “Redbird Christmas” by Fannie Flagg in January.

The Mystery Book Club convenes on the third Friday of the month at 2 p.m., with upcoming titles including “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie and “The Last Noel”

by Heather Grahm. You can find the meeting dates on the Owen County Public Library’s calendar.

In turn, the Owen County Senior Center boasts its own book club, designed for those aged 55 and above. This unique club meets at 11 a.m. every Monday at the Senior Center. What sets it apart is the dis-

cussion format; rather than reading the book beforehand, members dissect it together, ensuring a rich and engaging social calendar.

“Right now, we’re more focused on the holiday theme,” Owen County Senior Center Director Margina King said. “The members of the club decide what book they want to read every six months, with help from (Leah Reed) at the library.”

Their inaugural choice is “Unexpected Amish Christmas” by Rachel Good. With 10 members already signed up, anyone interested in joining is encouraged to reach out to King.

For those who prefer a more virtual approach, “The Radical Ladies Book Club” on Facebook provides a welcoming online space. This club includes women from Owen County and book lovers from across the nation. Each month, a group member selects a book for everyone to read, fostering engaging and dynamic discussions. Past selections have encompassed a wide range of titles, from “Same Sun Here” by Silas House to “My Life” by Isadora Duncan and “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett. Discussions unfold primarily on Facebook, but occasional Zoom meetings and in-person gatherings at local parks add to the sense of camaraderie.

Esmee McKee, the group’s founder, remarks on the club’s significance, “I really love that this book club space has also become a safe place for women who are struggling to share their thoughts. It’s been incredible to know that women feel comfortable to talk openly in a safe, shared space.”

These book clubs are not just about reading but also about the power of transformation through literature. To join “The Radical Ladies Book Club,” simply reach out on Facebook.

“Bookish Behavior” completes this

journey through Owen County’s book clubs. This unique club meets monthly at Elk Creek Winery and includes members Courtney Roberts, Tana Culbertson, Lee McIntosh, Lyndsi McNally, and Patty Greene.

Roberts, the club’s founder, shares, “Starting a book club was something I had wanted to do for a while. I love to read, and I especially love talking about the books that I read. I made a post on Facebook to see if there was any interest, and thankfully there was.”

Bookish Behavior primarily delves into mysteries and psychological thrillers, but the diverse tastes of its members create an environment for thought-provoking discussions.

Past reads have ranged from “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides to “Sometimes I Lie” by Alice Feeny and “The Only One Left” by Riley Sager.

This diversity in reading preferences fosters lively conversations. As Lee McIntosh notes, “I guarantee everyone will have a different opinion.” In a time where sharing opinions can be daunting, book clubs offer a safe space for respectful disagreements and a celebration of the uniqueness of every reading experience.

As these book clubs demonstrate, there is no single “right” way to experience a book. The power of literature lies in its ability to bring people together, whether in person or virtually, and to foster a profound sense of community. To enhance your reading journey and connect with like-minded individuals, consider joining one of Owen County’s existing book clubs. If none of them align with your specific interests, take a page from Courtney Roberts’s book and start your own.

It’s as simple as posting on Facebook or leaving a sign at the library; you’re sure to find kindred spirits eager to explore the world of books with you. v

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sweet owen + chamber of commerce

THE OWEN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S recent “Unforgettable Ireland” trip spanned eight days through Dublin, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, the Burren Region, Limerick, Galway, and the Connemara Region. Twenty-four of the trip’s 25 particpants were from Owen County. — Photo by Whitney Prather Duvall

UNFORGETTABLE IRELAND An eight-day adventure, from Dublin to Kerry

BY WHITNEY PRATHER DUVALL Sweet Owen Contributor

From Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of Moher, around the Ring of Kerry, and many other locations, participants in the Owen County Chamber of Commerce’s “Unforgettable Ireland” trip experienced the best of what the Emerald Isle has to offer.

Starting Oct. 2, 25 travelers began their eight-day tour by arriving in

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Dublin. Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, buzzes with city life while also providing an immersive historical experience with Georgian squares, Trinity College campus, historical monuments, shopping, and commerce along O’Connell Street.

After Dublin, the group traveled to County Kerry, visiting Blarney Castle and its nearby historic Woollen Mills for shopping. Blarney Castle, known for its Stone of Eloquence, was constructed in 1446 and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

Visitors also have the opportunity

to kiss the Blarney Stone, a block of carboniferous limestone believed to bestow the “gift of gab” upon those who smooch it.

If you’re seeking high-quality wool products, Blarney Woollen Mills is the place to go. Alternatively, you can enjoy an expansive lunch counter offering a variety of delicious hot and cold lunch items, desserts, and coffee.

It’s a versatile stop for everyone along the tour.

Despite heavy fog, the day spent touring the Ring of Kerry was a highlight of the week, with breathtaking

sweet owen

views of the countryside, mountains, peat bogs, lakes, and the Atlantic Ocean. The group stopped in Waterville for lunch, a town famous for its brightly-colored houses along the rocky shoreline.

There is no shortage of sheep in Ireland, and a visit to a local farm included a sheep shearing demonstration and insights into the working dogs used for herding sheep that graze in the mountains part of the year.

Killarney offered a quaint downtown with cobblestone streets, jaunting car rides, and plenty of stereotypical Irish pubs and shops, enchanting the group.

The majestic Cliffs of Moher justified a lengthy bus trip across the limestone landscapes of the Burren.

From there, the group traveled to Limerick, one of Ireland’s oldest cities, and enjoyed a medieval dinner and entertainment in a 15th-century castle.

On the way to Galway, travelers could appreciate the beauty of the Connemara region, known for its lakes, rivers, mountains, and gorgeous green marble. Amidst all this beauty sits Kylemore Abbey, built in 1868, offering a postcard-worthy experience.

As the week of touring cities, towns, countryside, and landmarks came to an end, it was back to Dublin to prepare for the journey home. A panoramic tour of Dublin, highlighting history, architecture, and the Guinness family’s impact on the city’s socioeconomic aspects, as well as a visit to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, located on the Dublin Docklands, concluded the visit.

To say that the “Unforgettable Ireland” tour was the experience of a lifetime is an understatement. With travelers ranging from 13 to 16 years old and beyond, it was an eclectic and enjoyable travel experience. v

p A TRADITIONAL PUB and RESTAURANT, the Red Fox Inn, pictured above, is located adjacent to the Kerry Bog Village. The local pub caters to visitors traveling the Ring of Kerry, offering food and refreshments, as well as being an Irish coffee perfectionist.— All photos by Whitney Prather Duvall

p A BELL TOWER, left, located at the site of where the abbey once stood in the Connemara region of Ireland. At right, the St. Mary’s Church of Ireland in Killarney.

sweetowenmag.com + winter 2023

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In addition to thousands of books, your Owen County Public Library gives you access to DVDs and audiobooks. Instantly borrow free digital movies, music, magazines, TV shows, eBooks and more with Hoopla and Libby. Plus, borrow audiobooks using OverDrive on your PC. Additional no-card-necessary services: Computer access, free Wi-Fi-, printing/copying, faxing, scanning to email, laminating, notary services 1370 Hwy. 22 E., Owenton, KY 40359 | (502) 484-3450

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sweetowenmag.com + winter 2023

An hour’s drive from Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati, Owen County lives up to its motto of “Pretty, Quiet, Close,” where visitors are always welcome to experience the natural beauty of the heart of Kentucky’s Golden Triangle.

Owen County Convention & Tourism Commission 300 S. Main St., Owenton, KY 40359

sweet owen + eats

House of McNally

Pork, Orzo, and Mushroom Goodness 1 lb. boneless pork chops, cubed 6 large mushrooms, sliced 1/2 small yellow onion, sliced As much fresh garlic as your heart desires 1 can Cream of Mushroom with Roasted Garlic Soup 1 box beef stock

Nothing says comfort food like carbs and dairy. This dish takes such little time to bring together, but tastes like you stood in the kitchen all day.

Using the soup mixes isn’t a shortcut; it’s a “smart cut.” They add depth and flavor. I used fresh pork from Jacobs Family Farm in beautiful Brooksville, Kentucky. You can substitute chicken for pork if you prefer, but I wouldn’t take the chance. If you need to throw together a meal before a boy’s middle school basketball game on a Tuesday afternoon and have a pantry full of staples, make this. But that’s hypothetically speaking. You can do this if you have nothing else to do on a Tuesday.

1 packet onion mushroom soup mix 1 lb. Ozro pasta, uncooked Parmesan Cheese Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 tbsp. butter

Cube and season pork with salt and pepper. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet and add pork; saute until just browned. Remove pork from the skillet. Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic. Saute until translucent, then remove. Add stock, soup mix, and Cream of Mushroom soup to the skillet and bring to a boil. Add vegetables, pork, and uncooked orzo pasta into the pan and cover. Cook covered for 15 minutes. Serve hot and top with parmesan cheese.

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.

sweetowenmag.com + winter 2023

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sweet owen + outdoors

It doesn’t end at the hunt

BY KELLY RODAMER Sweet Owen Contributor

‘Tis the season for crockpot meals, cozy fires, family gatherings, and hunting. That last one may have caught you off guard, but the truth of the matter is hunting is near and dear to the heart of many in Owen County. Not only does it grant us an opportunity to understand where our food comes from, but it teaches us about the circle of life, the importance of wildlife management, balancing our ecosystem, and offers a chance for a sense of gratitude and self-sustainability.

Other life lessons like patience, humility, environmental awareness, confidence, and perseverance are all ingrained in the very nature of the sport.

For my husband and I, it’s important that our children are exposed to the entire hunting process. This starts for us in the summer when gear is inventoried, inspected, and cleaned, prime locations are scouted, and plans are made for when hunts can take place. Typically, while all this is happening, I’m scouring the internet for new recipes and creative ways to use as much of the animal as possible.

One of the earliest conversations we ever had when Josh began hunting was about the relationship we have with our food source and the respect we need to show to the animal that was sacrificed for our

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KELLY AND JOSH RODAMER, PICTURED ABOVE, process deer meat that will go into delicious recipes, including Kelly’s Sweet Chili and a taco pasta casserole that uses venison. — Photo courtesy of Kelly Rodamer.

family. With that comes a new perspective on hunting--an appreciation for the time and work that goes into the hunt, consideration for the best use for as much of the animal as possible, and gratitude for the provisions that fill our freezer.

I won’t lie, from the beginning of our adventure, I had a deep admiration for my husband’s desire to provide for us in this way. But that didn’t mean I wanted to be an active participant. I was perfectly happy to stay home with the kids and collect the meat from a processor once it was packaged and ready to freeze.

Over time, however, I realized how disconnected this kept us from our food source, and we began to evaluate the why behind the hunt.

We found that the life lessons

mentioned earlier were a driving force behind our desire to provide for our family and share in a heritage that dates as far back as humankind. What better way to teach our children about hard work, patience, and environmental awareness than getting them involved with hunting?

There’s also an added benefit of quality family time. Now, they look forward to hiking and scouting with their dad. They spend time shooting their bows in the backyard and enjoy the friendly competition that comes with target practice. And, now that they’re a bit older, they can accompany Josh on some of his hunting excursions.

W e’ v e a l s o i n v e s t e d t i m e i n learning how to process the deer ourselves. This is now something we all

sweet owen

look forward to for various reasons: 1. We believe the appreciation and gratitude of the sacrifice to feed our family is greater. There is a genuine field-to-fork connection made.

2. It’s important that we don’t take the provisions we have for granted. By staying an active participant in the process from start to finish, we’re less likely to waste.

3. Family time can’t be beat.

For anyone who may say this is not for them, I am not one to be found out and about in nature or on the hunt. I

prefer to appreciate those activities from afar, planning how to make delicious meals to share. I’ve found my gift-wrapping skills transfer nicely to wrapping butcher paper and packaging ground meat. And helping the kids learn about the various cuts of meat and properly labeling, dating, and storing the meat geeks out my organizational type-A personality.

It’s taken several years, a lot of learning, and even more patience to get to where we realize how hunting has become interwoven into

our lives. It’s more than a season; it’s a life-long learning journey that provides hands-on opportunities to grow each year. It’s a process that is bigger than we are--and it doesn’t stop at the hunt.

I’m including one of our favorite recipes for venison meat in the hopes that your family can enjoy it as well.

If you’re new to hunting and want an excellent cookbook recommendation, check out “Hunt, Gather, Cook”

by Hank Shaw or “The Meateater” by Steven Rinella. v

Kelly’s Sweet Chili Ingredients 1 lb. ground venison, browned 2 cans chili beans 1 can kidney beans 2 10.5 oz. can tomato soup 2 packets of chili mix

2 tbsp. chili powder 1 tbsp. garlic powder 1/4 cup brown sugar Salt Pepper Basil

Directions Brown venison and place into soup pot.

Add chili beans, kidney beans, tomato soup and stir. Heat on low for 4-5 minutes.

Add chili mix, chili powder, garlic powder, and brown sugar.

Stir together.

Add salt, pepper, and basil to taste. Heat on medium until boiling.

Adjust heat to low and allow to simmer at least 30 minutes.

Serve with cornbread, cheese, or crackers, and enjoy.

sweetowenmag.com + winter 2023

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sweet owen + reads

Cozy winter reads Cozy up with these reads this winter; compiled by AMANDA ANDERSON MATTHEWS & MOLLY HAINES RIDDLE

YA Fiction

The House of Eve, Fiction Sadeqa Johnson Simon & Schuster 320 pages, $17.99

The Lost Bookshop, Fiction Evie Woods One More Chapter 431 pages, $18.99

I

t’s 1950s Philidelphia in Sadeqa Johnson’s “The House of Eve,” and 15-year-old Ruby Pearsall is on track to becoming the first in her family to attend college. But a taboo love affair threatens to pull her back down into the poverty and desperation that has been passed on to her like a birthright.

Eleanor Quarles arrives in Washington, DC, with ambition and secrets. When she meets the handsome William Pride at Howard University, they fall madly in love. But William hails from one of DC’s elite wealthy Black families, and his parents don’t let just anyone into their fold.

Eleanor hopes that a baby will make her finally feel at home in William’s family and grant her the life she’s been searching for. But having a baby—and fitting in—is easier said than done.

With their stories colliding in the most unexpected ways, Ruby and Eleanor will each make decisions that shape the trajectory of their lives.

In Evie Woods’ “The Lost Bookshop,” Opaline, Martha and Henry have been the side characters in their own lives for too long.

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The Anti-Inflammation Cookbook, Cookbook Amanda Haas Chronicle Books 192 pages, $27.95

Wynd, Book One: The Flight of the Prince James Tynion IV BOOM! Box 256 pages, $14.99

But when a vanishing bookshop casts its spell, these three unsuspecting strangers will discover that their own stories are every bit as extraordinary as the ones found in the pages of their beloved books. And by unlocking the secrets of the shelves, they find themselves transported to a world of wonder, where nothing is as it seems.

“The Anti-Inflammation Cookbook” by Amanda Haas is an excellent addition to the home cook’s library, especially for anyone suffering from inflammation. Haas is a recipe developer and cook on a journey to heal her inflammatory diseases through dieting. It’s a similar book to “Fix It With Food” by Michael Symon.

This book was written for those seeking help healing illnesses such as heart disease, Type 1 diabetes, IBS, or allergies. These recipes won’t cure anyone but are designed to improve health and quality of life. The cookbook includes an introductory section explaining how foods can help the healing process. It offers a list of foods to avoid (linked to inflammation), foods you should include, and why. It also offers insight into attempting an elimination diet to identify any triggers. The cookbook

sweet owen

p “THE ANTI-INFLAMMATION COOKBOOK” AUTHOR AMANDA HAAS is a cookbook author, cooking instructor, and brand ambassador for companies including Traeger Grills and Whole Foods Market. After discovering certain foods like gluten were causing inflammation in her body, Amanda wrote The Anti-Inflammation Cookbook (Chronicle Books, 2015). Her goal?

“To make real food taste so good, people don’t miss the junk food!”

is broken into six chapters, from basic pantry staples to meat and vegetable dishes and desserts. The recipes lend themselves easily to substitutions. The pages often include beautiful pictures and are laid out for easy use.

Recommended recipes are garlic-lemon vinaigrette, the curry-spiced nut mix with maple and black pepper, and quinoa salad. Test out the recipes listed on Haas’ website, especially this nut recipe: https://www. amandahaascooks.com/curry-spiced-nut-mix-withmaple-and-black-pepper/#recipe.

“Wynd, Book One: The Flight of the Prince” by James Tynion IV is the first in a graphic novel series involving Wynd, a teen boy with magical powers referred to as “weirdblood,” in a time and place where magic is banned.

Wynd lives a happy life in Pipetown with Miss Molly and

his best friend Oakley, working in the basement of Miss Molly’s pub. Here, he keeps his magic and pointy ears hidden from the town. When danger knocks, Wynd is forced to make a choice to save his life. Thus begins his epic journey with a prince, his crush, and Oakley as they fight forces much larger than themselves to do what is right for everyone living in Esseriel.

The book touches on thematic elements like belonging, friendship, and loyalty with fabulous illustrations that enhance the story with detail.

This book may only suit some as it involves fighting, gore, and monsters. Middle schoolers and, undoubtedly, high school students will enjoy this series. It will definitely appeal to younger readers as well, but adults should use discretion; it’s recommended for ages 13 and up. v

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Find your 'Furever Friend'

meet “sage” Skittish and aloof when she arrived at the Owen County Friends of Animals shelter in December 2022, Sage has improved by leaps and bounds and is now eager to please and thrives on attention. Sage is a bit picky about the dogs she befriends in the shelter environment, but after assessment by a professional trainer, we believe with proper introductions and a stable home, Sage would be fine with canine companions.

ALL ABOUT SAGE Age: About 2 years old Gender: Female Size: Approximately 47 lbs.

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

"Christmas Songs" Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023 Courthouse Square | Owenton, KY 1:00-5:00 p.m., Open House at Participating Merchants/ Christmas Shopping Around the Square 1:00-7:00 p.m., Bellator Trackless Train 2:30 p.m., Christmas Bake-Off (Drop off at Epoch) 2:30 p.m., Caroling on the Courthouse Lawn 3:00 p.m.., Lining Up of Floats (Covenance Group, aka old Itron building) 4:00 p.m., Judging of Floats 5:00 p.m., Leave Covenance Group Parking Lot 5:00 p.m., Lighting of the Christmas Tree 5:30 p.m., Christmas Parade 6:00 p.m., Santa Claus in Front of German American Bank 7:00 p.m., Mayberry Christmas Play at the Owen County Courthouse SPONSORED BY

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