October / November - Henderson Family 2023

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

Contents

October // November 2023

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Meet Local Agriculture Entrepreneurs Q&A with The Boucherie Grandchildren

14

Dream It, Do It, Declare It

Two sisters and their parents find a way to bring two business ventures to the Henderson community.

I N E V E RY I S S U E

6 From the Editor 7 The Buzz 8 Parent Profile M A K I NG I T

reading with your child—here is a must-read list for the season.

36 Make Fall Memories Your Ultimate Fall Bucket List

37 Giving Thanksgiving Away

10 Recipe

16

More Than a Profession

The Stories of Four Local Farming Families.

26

Henderson Locals Take on Tokyo!

Students share their experiences about summer STEM trip to Japan.

This Halloween, give your kids a treat that’s both spooky and delicious with these graveyard pudding cups!

12 Craft Time

Create a fun and colorful pumpkin craft with pipe cleaners and pony beads.

D I S COV E R

32 Tips for Planting a Fall Garden 34 The Book Nook

There is nothing better than

OUT & ABOUT

40 Local Things To Do This Season Events and fun things to do close to home.

43 Kids Meal Deals When and where to take your kids to eat for the best deals.

FR O M O U R R E A DERS 44 Summer Adventures Photos submitted to our Facebook page.

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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FROM THE EDITOR

Lyndi's Top Picks Two-Tier Decorative Tray Last year I started using a two-tier tray as a decorative piece in my kitchen. With this said - I found myself gathering small decor to arrange on both tiers anytime I might be out and about, especially at Hobby Lobby. It has now become one of my favorite places to add decor in our home. It’s in the center of our kitchen, so I am able to add a little touch for every season in a very simple way.

Hash Brown Casseroles My job for our Thanksgiving gatherings on both sides of our family is to make hash brown casseroles. The recipe is from my aunt, so everyone in my family already knows how delicious her casserole dish is.

But I then introduced the casserole to my husband’s side of the family and it soon became the dish I bring to their Thanksgiving gathering, too. Luckily, we usually have our Thanksgiving gatherings on different days, or I would need another casserole bag to pack along for the trip to see our families.

Pumpkin Roll I know many love all things pumpkin when fall comes around. Although I’ve never been one to order a pumpkin spice drink, I do love my pumpkin desserts - with pumpkin rolls being one of them. I remember in high school there would be a fundraiser each year selling baked goods, and I always wanted to order a pumpkin roll. They were delicious and have always been one of my favorites!

H

ow are we already entering the fall season?

With kids back in school, the busy season has officially started for many parents - including myself.

School, sports, church activities, and more!

But - I have to admit I absolutely love this time of year. I love the leaves changing colors, all things fall from decor to scented candles, pumpkin patches, football games, soups - the list could go on. It’s one of my favorite seasons!

I know I have mentioned before how I grew up as an Indianapolis Colts fan and my husband a Cincinnati Bengals fan. I watched the Colts with my dad, and now my kids are watching the Bengals with their dad and Pap. It has become our Sunday tradition. We all get together and watch the game, and I absolutely love it because it’s family time. It brings back so many wonderful memories with my own dad. We are a football-loving family, and we are ready for the new season to begin.

This issue is our agriculture issue where you will find all things related to agriculture. Agriculture plays such a huge role in Henderson County, and we are blessed to have so many amazing local farms.

Inside, you will find a feature on four local farming families who share what life on their farm is like and the life skills their children are learning along the way. We have also featured two sisters who have started their own business with the help of animals from their small farm to offer parties to the community - with their family also starting up Henderson’s monthly “Road to the Rodeo” event. The Boucherie grandchildren have also answered some questions about the business their grandfather helped them start, and what it’s like being young entrepreneurs in the agricultural world.

Don’t miss reading about a group of Henderson County students and adults who recently traveled to Japan on a STEM trip just in time to share as the new school year has started.

Get in the Halloween spirit with our Graveyard Dirt Cups recipe and let your kids enjoy making a fun pumpkin craft that’s full of color for your fall or Halloween decorations.

Happy Fall Ya’ll!

EDITORIAL EDITOR

Lyndi Mauk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christie Netherton Mandy Sue Glaser Kaycee Inge Jamie Plain Ashley Wedding Do you have a story idea?

We want to hear from you!

Email your suggestion to lyndi@tannerpublishing.com.

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Brock Quinton Henderson Family is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise.

For more information about advertising call 270-297-1600 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Andrea Roberson Monica Tapp STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jamie Plain ON THE COVER

Jay, Amber, Raecy and Mackenzie Adair Photo by Wild WILD Light Photography CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Darrin Phegley Whit Phelps Photography

DISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 270-297-1600.

ONLINE hendersonfamilymagazine.com facebook.com/hendersonfamilymagazine instagram @ hendersonfamilymag

TANNER PUBLISHING CO. PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner LY N D I M AU K Editor, Henderson Family Magazine

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

2624 New Hartford Rd, Building A Owensboro, KY 42302 270-297-1600

THE BUZZ

THE MOBILE SCIENCE ACTIVITY CENTER STOPS BY HENDERSON FARMERS MARKET

On Saturday, July 22 the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Mobile Science Activity Center stopped by the Henderson Farmers Market for a visit. The MSAC trailers have tons of educational opportunities conveniently located inside where students can use iPad interactive workstations to learn more about agriculture through a variety of activities. They target 4th and 5th grade, but there are activities available for all elementary aged students.

HENDERSON COUNTY FFA NAMED NATIONAL 3-STAR CHAPTER

The Henderson County FFA was recently announced as a National 3-Star Chapter, which is the highest rating a chapter can receive. In November, they will be recognized at the 96th National FFA Convention. This will be the third time HCHS FFA has received this award, as they also received this honor in 2014 and 2015. There are currently 8,995 chapters in the National FFA Organization.

This also ranks Henderson County as one of the top 10% in the state of Kentucky.

Henderson FFA Secretary (2022/2023) Laynie Rich had a leading role in completing the application. Rich, now a junior at HCHS, stated “We set the goal of receiving a 3-star rating in the summer of 2022. Our members, officer team, and advisors worked extremely hard for this tremendous honor. It was definitely a year to remember and celebrate.”

FELDMAN FARMS HOSTS STAFFULTY GATHERING FOR SPOTTSVILLE ELEMENTARY

On Tuesday, August 15 Spottsville Elementary School had their first “staffulty” gathering at Feldman Farms. They spent the evening creating fresh bouquets. “Our hosts, the Rideouts, were wonderful,” said Leslie Bartow, Assistant Principal. “We have a Culture Crew here at school where we organize monthly staff gatherings outside of school for any staff member who wants to attend. We try to mix it up and do a variety of things. For Feldman Farms, everyone met out there and went to pick their own flowers, then created their own bouquets.” Mason jars and green filler were provided by the Rideouts and Laura Rideout helped arrange for those that needed help with their arrangement. Staff members were able to bring their own children to this gathering if they wanted to as well. “Our Culture Crew has made a big impact on our school culture and staff morale. We also plan monthly morale things within the school day to keep things upbeat and positive.”

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PARENT PROFILE

Wes Overton Photo by Darrin Phegley

Tell us a little about yourself (family, kids, pets, etc) My name is Wes Overton. I am the middle child of three. My brother is two years older, and my sister is four years younger. I grew up on my father’s first-generation farm in Zion where my brother and I raised vegetables to sell with my grandfather.

During high school, my brother and I baled and sold alfalfa hay, mums, and worked on my father’s farm.

I graduated high school in 2002 and attended college where I received a degree in liberal arts. In 2008, I met my bride, Ashley Hunt.

In 2011, we became engaged and married in 2012. That same year Ashley became an RN. Ashley and I moved into my farmhouse on Alves Ferry Rd, along with her son Dakota, and started our lives together. Little over a year later, I became a father with a daughter, Allie. We had our son, Avery, two years later, and then almost three years later we had our last daughter, Ava Claire. Our children have a dog, Lucy, horses, 4H hogs, and numerous chickens, of which they sell eggs to neighbors. Allie will also be selling mums this fall.

What do you do for a living and how long have you been working in this position?

I am currently a producer of agricultural commodities. My brother, father and I work alongside each other each day. We produce corn, soybeans and perform custom farming for some elder neighbors. We have also raised vegetables, tobacco, and custom fed chickens for Tyson foods. I have been a farmer full-time since 2004. I started out raising 40,000 lbs burley and 12,000 lbs dark tobacco.

What do you enjoy most about your job? What are some of the challenges?

Farming is an interesting career! Agriculture is a career in which you have very little control of outcomes due to the reliance on mother nature.

One rain stands between a bad, good or great year! Farming gives you the privilege to work outdoors with nature. Only someone who grew up on a farm can understand the smell of fresh dirt, the sound of a corn field in the wind, or the smell of an ear forming on the stalk. It is quite satisfying seeing the seeds you planted germinating from the soil. One of the best parts of being a farmer is raising children where life is real! They get to see the results

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

of their hard work. The skills and values they learn outside is unmeasurable. There are several issues facing agriculture, one of the top ones right now is solar farms. Crops can’t grow everywhere, and the placement of solar panels on cleared productive soil is terrible. Finding skilled labor is very difficult for several reasons: the high wages paid for off farm jobs, the complexity of the technology, and the lack of work ethic are just a few. It’s not easy sending a novice operator to perform a task with a quarter to a half million-dollar piece of equipment. Inputs have been quite the issue in recent years, both availability and price.

Outside of farming, what hobbies does your family enjoy?

We attend church and church events regularly. My children enjoy the children’s programs they participate in. My children and I also like to ride horses and camp. My brother’s family and mine enjoy dealing with horses and are looking into starting training for both horses and people looking to learn to ride. My children love to go to fun shows with their horses where they barrel race, pole bending, and simply trail riding. We enjoy time on the boat with my parents as well.

How do you find balance between work and family?

It is quite difficult sometimes to juggle fun with work, but with the understanding that we all work hard together, the balance works. There are times horse riding must take a pause to spray beans, or camping gets cut short because fields dry for planting.

The best part about living and working on a farm, work is part of the fun. I teach my family, with our love and respect for each other, smiles and hugs win in the end.

What advice would you give to those interested in the agriculture industry?

The best advice I can give a young person looking to enter the agricultural field is to find someone to shadow. Find an older farmer to work with. Far more will be learned from shared wisdom than a text or YouTube video. You must be patient. Farming is expensive, success is earned and fought for. One cannot compare to a multi-generation operation. Find a hole in the marketplace and fill it. Be willing to do what others are not. Your most valuable asset is your labor, use it wisely and to your advantage. Most importantly is persistence! You’re going to fail. You will have a bad year. Hard work can’t always cure bad management, but learn to adapt, redirect and try again. Above all, have an active relationship with our God and creator! HF

Making it

CRAFTS, RECIPES, AND ACTIVITIES FAMILIES CAN ENJOY TOGETHER

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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MAKING IT • RECIPE

GRAVEYARD DIRT CUPS Recipe & Photo by Jamie Plain

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

This Halloween, give your kids a treat that’s both spooky and delicious with these graveyard pudding cups! Made with chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms, these cups are sure to be a hit. To make them even more festive, decorate them with tombstones made from Milano cookies and black icing. Your kids will love digging into these graveyard pudding cups!

INGREDIENTS: ›› 1 (3.9 oz) pkg chocolate instant pudding mix ›› 2 cups milk ›› 8 oz. cool whip ›› 1 pkg Oreo cookies ›› Milano cookies (cut into twos), edible marker (or writing frosting) Optional types of Halloween decorations: Gummy worms, candy pumpkins, candy bones, ghost marshmallows, Halloween sprinkles.

DIRECTIONS: ›› Crush the Oreos in a ziplock bag with a

rolling pin. Set aside. ›› In a mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Allow to sit for 5 minutes. ›› Fold the cool whip and approximately 1/4 of the Oreo crumbles into the pudding. ›› Layer cookie crumbles and pudding mix into small glasses. ›› Cut Milano cookies in half to make “gravestones”. Use an edible marker to add a “RIP”, then stick it into the pudding cup.

Decorate with other optional Halloween treats. ›› Chill 1 hour before serving.

HF

JAMIE PLAIN is a nationally published culinary and commercial photographer working as a full-time staff photographer for Tanner Publishing. She has a knack for making tasty food and pretty art. See more of her portfolio at jaastudios.com.

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MAKING IT • CRAFT

PUMPKIN PICASSOS Written by Ashley Wedding Photo by Jamie Plain

Create a fun and colorful pumpkin craft with pipe cleaners and pony beads. This activity is perfect for kids and can be a great addition to your fall or Halloween decorations.

Here's how to make it: M AT E R I A L S Y O U 'L L N E E D :

INSTRUCTIONS:

›› Take 6-7 pipe cleaners and overlap them in their center. Twist them together at the center to form a spider-like shape. ›› Thread pony beads on to the pipe cleaners, leaving a small amount of space at each end.

›› orange, green and brown pipe

›› Twist all the ends together to

cleaners

secure the beads.

›› orange pony beads (varying colors

›› Add green or brown pipe cleaners

if possible)

for the stem and/or vine.

You can also get into the season with some DIY painted pumpkins.

Transform plain ceramic pumpkins into works of art that are perfect for decorating your space, adding a touch of fall flair, or even giving as special gifts. These pumpkins feature shades of orange, but you could opt for Halloween colors, rainbow or anything your child wants – let their creativity run wild!

If you make these adorable crafts, be sure to tag a photo of them on our social media accounts! We would love to see them!

ASHLEY WEDDING is the editor of Owensboro Parent Magazine. She enjoys everyday adventures with her husband, Drew, and their three kids, Avery, Reed and Mason.

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

Community

THE PEOPLE AND P L A C E S T H AT M A K E H E N D E R S O N G R E AT

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COMMUNITY

DREAM IT do it DECLARE IT “You are doing great, and I am proud of

A Farming Family

you!” said Jennifer Heistand, to her daughters

they must help each other depending on

Madison and Mollie live on a small farm

circumstances. “Sometimes if one of us is

with their parents, and about four years

struggling to do something, like if there is a

Madison (17) and Mollie (11) Heistand

ago Madison began riding horses. She was

big storm coming and everyone else is done,

are two sisters from Henderson who know

self-taught and currently has a job riding

then we go over and help somebody,” Mollie

a thing or two about farm life - caring for

horses for two private horse owners here in

explained.

and tending to horses, chickens, goats and

Henderson who both approached her for the

rabbits. But - the idea to share their animals

job.

on their business accomplishments.

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Written by Lyndi Mauk Photo by Whit Phelps Photography

Madison takes care of the horses and goats while Mollie takes care of the

with the community came about when

The Heistand family has 5 horses on

chickens and bunnies and gets the eggs.

Madison and Mollie set out to find a way

their farm. Mollie has a mini pony named

“All of our animals are really sweet because

for Mollie to buy a new pony and Madison

Noni, which is used for their business.

we mess with them everyday,” Madison said

to start saving money for college. And so -

They also have dairy goats, dwarf goats,

cheerfully. She laughed, explaining that their

a new business adventure began known as

chickens and bunnies. “It is a lot of work to

chicken coop isn’t very big, but Mollie is

“Party Ponies: Mobile Pony Rides and Petting

have a lot of animals,” Jennifer said. Each

able to squeeze inside and the chickens will

Zoo.”

family member has chores but sometimes

run up to her like they are pets. They didn’t

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

technically have a mama, so Mollie calls

Madison how to do some of the body work.

their #1 priority is making sure everyone is

herself their mama.

They worked together to design it. Once they

safe.

Madison’s interest and hobbies revolve

began building the Party Ponies business, it

During the parties, Madison leads the

around horses. She is wanting to go to

made sense to add more of their animals

pony. “I like playing the part and interacting

college to train and possibly obtain a degree

since they had a way to transport all of them

with the kids.” Mollie went on to explain how

in equine studies at Asbury University near

now. They had the animals and the trailer, so

they are always open to recommendations.

Lexington. “Horses are my thing,” she said.

they were ready to start offering parties to

Mollie said, “I like seeing them enjoy the

Outside of their new business, Mollie really

the community!

animals, and for kids who don’t have a lot

enjoys playing the piano, horseback riding and planting and gardening.

The plan is they will work hard, and the girls will split the funds to go towards a

of animals or any at home, they can enjoy animals they don’t have.”

new pony and college tuition. However, the

The Idea Mollie knew she was outgrowing Noni,

money earned will also be used to help feed and care for their animals.

who is about to be 6, so she really wanted to start looking for a new pony. She had painted

Not Their First Rodeo Starting

a

business

hasn’t

been

Madison, or her family’s, first experience

The Business

bringing something new and exciting to the

a picture of what kind of horse she wanted,

It took about a month to get Party

Henderson community!

and one day they walked into Madison’s work

Ponies up and going. Madison researched

When Madison began competing, she

and almost exactly what she had painted

and built this business from the ground

started in Indiana. She was brand new, but

was in the stall. We couldn’t get it because it

up on her own. Her dad helped her with

she did fairly well being her first show. The

was too much,” Mollie expressed.

some of the 501c3 paperwork, but she did

next weekend, she won quite a few events.

Madison stated, “She was so upset.”

the majority of it on her own. She also had

That entire year, she was practicing and

Madison knew when Mollie found the right

to find costumes and worked on marketing

going out to compete every weekend. “By

pony they would have to get rid of Noni. And

to promote their new venture by designing

the end of the year, I had a few championship

that is when the idea was born. Madison

their website, Facebook page and business

year-end points. It was hard to find

shared her idea, “I am like what if we did

cards.

competition in Kentucky, so I had to go

parties so that you could earn money to

“Party Ponies: Mobile Pony Rides and

further than Evansville.” However, Madison

get another pony, and we could keep Noni

Petting Zoo” offers four themes: Mythical,

knew they could not keep traveling every

because she would be doing something.

Sunflower Country, Cowboy Country and

weekend.

Mollie said happily, “I want people to ride

Frozen. They are hoping to add a Knight

There were no shows at the Henderson

her, but I don’t want to sell her. We are

themed party soon. Not only do Madison,

County Fairgrounds. Madison and her family

keeping her to love on her while we are

Mollie and their pony, Noni, dress the part,

kept talking about how someone needed to

doing the party ponies. That’s basically what

but they provide costumes and props for the

start a show, and then one day her dad said,

we want to do is kids can still ride her, and

kids to take photos with as well.

“Well ,if it’s going to be this hard, why don’t

she can still get exercise.”

When it comes to transporting the

we just make a show ourselves!”

“She is like a dog,” Jennifer said

animals, their chickens are probably the

Madison explained it was kind of a joke

laughing. Mollie added that Noni is like an

easiest. Madison laughed as she explained

for a while, but then they thought, “Why

outside pet. She is part of their family, and

how the baby chickens are moved in a cat

don’t we?” The next thing you know, the

this new business gives her purpose since

carrier, and the baby chickens will run right

monthly Western Horse Show was created

the girls can no longer ride her now. The

inside for the road trip. The goats on the

called “Road to the Rodeo (RTTR).” Jennifer

girls took their business idea a step further

other hand can be the most challenging

explained, “Road to the Rodeo is not a rodeo,

by adding the petting zoo. Madison recently

sometimes to get inside the trailer but are

but it is a training ground that is basically

helped their dad, Jamie, fix up a trailer to

very loving. Smiling, Madison said, “If they

a bridge between fun shows and rodeo. It is

transport their horses when she became

can’t see you, they will yell.” Their dwarf

the “road to” for kids and anyone who wants

interested in competing in speed and agility

goats are named Cotton and Candy. The girls

to compete. RTTR was created in October

events. Madison found their trailer while

bought these goats with their own money in

2022, but shows didn’t start until April 2023.

driving down the highway and as Madison

Montgomery, Indiana. All of the animals will

The shows will end in October before they

described, “it was a rust bucket.” They were

be inside a portable pen at the parties.

start preparing for the upcoming season.

currently borrowing a friend’s trailer to get

Madison says the most challenging task

Madison and her dad started looking

their horses to and from events, so they

on their part is keeping all the animals in the

into legal work, but had a lot of support

knew they had to reach out and get the

pen and making sure kids follow the rules.

from people in the community. “We wanted

trailer. Their dad is a mechanic and showed

They know how excited the kids will be, but

a festival atmosphere for riders and

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

15

COMMUNITY

responsibility by living and caring for all their animals. “It takes a lot to do things like feeding and making sure their health is looked after.” Madison has taken this all on her own by learning how to set up a business. “It is stressful, but it is rewarding at the same time. She is learning a lot of things that a lot of adults don’t even know. I never would have done that at 17,” Jennifer said. For Mollie, she is working the concessions for RTTR by learning how to communicate with others and count money. “She is getting it and thinking in her head doing math,” said the proud mother. Their motto for RTTR is “Riding on Faith” and this rodeo venture has been truly that. Their family has taken a leap of faith to bring a fun-filled event to Henderson.

“They have done really spectators,” Madison said.

well. It’s a great idea. The

“As a rider, I enjoy putting

only thing we have left now

on a performance. I enjoy

is to learn how to drive with

competing

a horse trailer,” Jennifer said

and

going

against other people, but

laughing. “I am proud of them

it’s also fun to be in front

because they are learning

of a crowd. We wanted to

how to be responsible and do

draw people in, as well as,

things on their own. We have

have things for the riders

a lot of adventures. Why not

so we came up with ideas:

try it and see if it will work!”

bounce houses, games,

“Dream

roping and great food.

got a lot of people here this time. People are

All kinds of stuff to draw

finally hearing about it!”

people in.”

Madison

used

Canva

to

create

everything for RTTR. Madison created all the forms, waivers, and banners and designed the website and awards for the event.

The monthly shows themselves have been a family business. “Every show is a learning experience. We couldn’t pull it off without volunteers,” Jennifer said. They would not have been able to get this event up and running without sponsors. Jennifer stated, “It takes a lot of time, effort and energy. What the show makes helps sustain the next one. It’s in its infancy stages, but it has gone really smoothly and great. We

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

It,

Do

It,

Declare It” - this is what you will find on the back of Madison and Mollie’s

Their last monthly show had riders

trailer and these girls are proving you are

from Illinois and even Texas who just

never too young to dream big and make

happened to be in town for work. “Each time it progresses,” Mollie said. Mollie is the “concession tray girl” as she calls it. She will walk around and get orders - whether it be for the elderly or for those who don’t want to miss the show. She helps get drinks, chips, etc. She really enjoys it.

A Learning Opportunity

those dreams a reality.

To learn more about “Party Ponies: Mobile Pony Rides and Petting Zoo,” you may visit partyponies.godaddysites.com, email them at PartyPonies.Events@gmail.com or call 270-860-6955. For Road to the Rodeo, you may visit roadtotherodeo.com. HF

As a homeschooling family, Jennifer

LYNDI MAUK, editor of Henderson Family

is always teaching her girls. However,

Magazine, was born and raised in the Bluegrass State.

these business adventures are teaching

She is grateful to be going through life alongside

them so many life skills and lessons. She

her husband and best friend, Brandon, and being a

explained how they are learning so much

mother to their two kids.

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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COMMUNITY

From left, back row: Brianna Barnes, Heather Fehd, Cassandra Bennett, Amber Adair, Montana Fehd, 12, Anna Bennett, 16, Madelyn Bennett, 17, Raecy Adair, 16, Ana Green. Front row: Paige Bennett, 12, Mackenzie Adair, 8, John Tyler Green, 7, Cole Green, 6.

More Than a Profession: THE STORIES OF FOUR LOCAL FARMING FAMILIES Written by Christie Netherton // Photo by Darrin Phegley

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

Agriculture and farming are more than a profession, they are a lifestyle, uniting families and providing youth with handson experiences, such is the case for four Henderson families who share their journey into farming and agriculture and how their children have cultivated their own entrepreneurial endeavors in the field.

THE ADAIRS: The Adair family, comprising Jay

ensuring their animals are well fed and

profit out of it too. With a surplus of goat

cared for throughout their lifecycle.

milk, the family started making goat’s

and Amber Adair and their children,

“I think for us, it’s kind of become a

milk lotion and soaps, which they sell at

Raecy and Mackenzie, transformed their

lifestyle, but it’s also kind of a pride thing

local craft shows during fall months. The

farming passion into a vibrant lifestyle.

… And it’s really a team effort,” she said.

family also sells a unique range of other

In 2019, they began livestock farming on their family property, “Rockin’ A

products including “Rabbit Dust,” a plant THE BENNETTS:

fertilizer made from rabbit droppings;

Acres,” in Henderson, where Jay grew

The Bennett family – Cassandra and

up. Raecy and Mackenzie are actively

W.A. Bennett, along with their three

Each family member plays a vital

involved in the family farm, from

daughters, Madelyn, Anna and Paige –

role, from lotion and soap production

raising sheep, pigs, and dairy goats, to

created a fun, family business through

to animal care. Year-round preparation

participating in local and state fairs and

their love of raising livestock.

includes milk production, inventory

bath salts, candied pecans, and more.

selling pork and lamb at the farmers’

“The idea to get the girls started in

management, and livestock training for

market. “That has just taken off,” Amber

4-H and raising dairy goats,” Cassandra

shows. “We all have to pitch in,” Madelyn

said.

said, “stemmed from wanting to find an

said.

The

farm

commitment,

is

a

year-round

activity and hobby that the whole family

Madelyn and Anna’s participation

with

and leadership roles in

summer months filled

FFA and 4-H also nurtures

with livestock shows

their

and fairs, and the fall

entrepreneurial

season dedicated to

while

breeding sheep and

livestock

goats. Pigs are bred

cheerleading.

leadership Paige

and skills,

uses

her

earnings

for

throughout the year,

“This teaches them,

and December to April

not only leadership, but

is a “chaotic” period

they’re learning how to

as

they

welcome

network,” Cassandra said.

newborn

lambs,

“What we do, it’s given

Amber said.

them the ability to deal

Raecy’s dedicated

with real life things.”

care during lambing THE FEHDS:

and farrowing seasons involves

constant

Heather

monitoring and alarm

and

her

daughter, Montana Fehd,

reminders, sometimes resulting in long

could participate in.” So, in 2016, the

nights. “It’s a lot of work,” Amber said.

family started dairy goat farming under

“And I will give them credit. Most girls

the name, “Bennett’s Barnyard.”

their age would not get out there and do

share a passion for raising goats.

Montana’s journey began at three when they received two goats as a gift.

“They all played softball when

“I took one goat and her (Montana)

they were little. And [Madelyn] almost

to the fair. Pippi Longstocking … and

also

played travel ball, but her dad is such

her walked all over the place. They were

involved in 4-H, with Mackenzie starting

a homebody, and he wanted us to be

everywhere. She was hanging from

her first year of Clover Buds, and Raecy

together.” The operation expanded to

the rafters in there, but as soon as she

participating in Area Team Council and

include Black Angus cattle, Flemish

went into the show ring, it was like you

preparing country hams for the state

giant rabbits, market hogs, ducks, and

turned on a light switch,” Heather said.

fair.

chickens.

“Something clicked in her because she

a lot of the heavy lifting. Raecy does.”

Raecy and

Mackenzie

are

While the family puts a lot of work

Cassandra said the family quickly

and time into the operation, Amber said

learned that, while raising and showing

Montana, now 12, manages her goat

it is well worth it, especially knowing

their animals was a great family activity,

herd under the name, “Cheyenne Acres,”

they are feeding their community and

they had to somehow find ways to make a

with the help of her mother and father,

just fell in love with it.”

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

19

COMMUNITY

the goats because “they’re so cute,”

David Fehd.

She joined the American Goat

but the family eventually purchased

Society (AGS) in 2014 and the American

registered goats for John Tyler and

Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) in

Cole to show at fairs and have since

2017. Her passion grew steadily, and

expanded their herd to 19 goats.

by 2020, she became more invested

John Tyler and Cole started

in learning about breeding, genetics,

showing their goats last year and

and the overall development of her

participate in the Livestock Kids

herd of 25 goats. Her daily routine

program

involves milking, feeding, and health

which is geared toward younger kids

check-ups, with a challenging kidding

interested in raising livestock.

County,

of

still young, Ana said the two help

the hardest parts of the year in

bottle-feed the baby goats and feed

maintaining the herd,” Heather said.

the adult goats on a daily basis, as well.

“Kidding

season

is

one

Cameras in the stalls ensure the

“We had a couple of bottle babies we

family are present for every birth and

started with, so that was something

able to assist the goats however is

fun they could do,” Ana said. John

needed, including bottle feeding every newborn goat, Heather said. With a surplus of milk following breeding season, Heather said the family donates about 10 gallons a week to rehabilitating animals.

Montana’s involvement in 4-H, community service, and education complements her ability to build her goat herd. She hopes to achieve national

champion

status,

and

potentially become a certified judge in the future, though it could mean not showing her own goats as frequently as she would like.

As the end of showing months approach, Montana said she will start breeding her goats. Then, with the start of kidding season in April, she said that’s when she gets to do her favorite part – naming the newborns.

THE GREENS: The Green Family – Ana, Tyler,

Tyler said he and brother Cole wake up early to help with feeding, but they also just like to hang out with the goats too. “The thing I like about the goats is they’re so calm. When you first get them, they’re not calm, but you have to teach them. It’s just like you have a kid,” he said.

In addition to goats, the family also sells goat milk soap and runs a

greenhouse,

selling

annuals,

perennials, herbs, ferns, and some cool-season crops during fall and winter months under their farm name, “JTC Farm.”

Right now, Ana said John Tyler and Cole are growing their own plants, including watermelons and carrots.

“We got done selling spring plants at the end of May, and then the boys got to have at it and plant whatever they wanted, and they will help with putting the tags in the plants and all that fun stuff,” she said.

HF

and their sons, John Tyler and Cole –

CHRISTIE NETHERTON is the Community

began goat farming three years ago in

Engagement and Marketing Specialist for

Hopkins County.

RiverValley Behavioral Health. She is a local

“We just started with a couple goats a couple years ago and then it really snowballed,” Ana said.

Ana said she originally bought HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

Henderson

Though John Tyler and Cole are

season.

20

in

Kentuckian from Frankfort with a journalism degree from the University of Kentucky. She spends her free time roller skating at local parks, snuggling with her dog, and is a self-proclaimed foodie.

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

21

COMMUNITY

22

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

Meet Local Agriculture Entrepreneurs:

THE BOUCHERIE GRANDCHILDREN

T

Photo by Mandy Sue Glaser

he grandchildren of the Boucherie family at Boucherie Winery started learning about what it takes to

DOES EVERY GRANDCHILD HAVE A

start, manage and work a business from the

Emma Mayes (20) - We mostly do the same

help of their grandfather when he helped

jobs. The older kids do more physical labor

them create E.M.C.O. Epic Growers. Emma, Memphis, Christian, Olivia, Claira and Violet work together in their farming business and several of them have shared a little bit about their local business below.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT E.M.C.O.

DIFFERENT JOB/RESPONSIBILITY? IF SO, WHAT ARE THEY?

while the younger kids do more of the selling; as the oldest though I did both.

Claira Bell (7) - All the grandchildren, they all really sell sweet corn. I plant pumpkins, and I harvest pumpkins and sell pumpkins

Emma Mayes (20) - E.M.C.O. is a farm that

and corn, too. So you do all of it? Yes! Plant,

the grandkids started on our grandparents

pick and sell.

farm Summer 2013.

Violet Pullum (5) - Memphis, I don’t really Claira Bell (7) - We do a lot of planting, and we

know what his job is but like all of the kids’

plant in the spring. We sell in the summer,

jobs are to pick corn and sell pumpkins and

and then we plant pumpkins in the fall, and

sell corn, too. What is your job? What do you

we harvest in the late, late fall.

do? Do you help with everything? (Nodding).

HOW DID THE IDEA TO START E.M.C.O COME ABOUT? Emma Mayes (20) - We went to our grandparents farm during the summer and wanted to earn some money over the summer, the two ideas went together!

WHAT DO YOU CURRENTLY GROW AT YOUR FARM? DO YOU PLAN TO EXPAND IN THE FUTURE? Emma Mayes (20) - Right now we grow pumpkins and corn. We used to grow more but found it wearing ourselves too thin and

Christian Mayes (15) - Our grandfather

needing to downsize and focused on the

wanted to find a way to spend time with us

crops that made the most money. We don’t

and teach us about farming.

currently have plans to expand again.

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

23

COMMUNITY

Christian Mayes (15) - Pumpkins and corn. I am not sure if we are going to expand any time soon.

Claira Bell (7) - We sell corn and pumpkins. Do you plan to do more in the future? Umm…no.

Violet Pullum (5) - Corns

and

pumpkins. Do you want to do more in the future? Yeah!

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT FARMING? WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLENGING IN THIS BUSINESS? Emma Mayes (20) - I enjoy seeing plants I planted grow and produce crops as well as seeing other people enjoy them! The most challenging was

enjoying

it

every

second.

Sometimes those corn fields are just so hot!

Claira Bell (7) - My favorite part about farming is I get to help with some of the equipment that we use, which we barely use it. Like the seed planter?

Yeah, and I try to do it as fast as I can because it’s really hot outside. And that’s all that I really kind of like. The most challenging part about farming is probably doing some of the steps and when it’s hot out we have to try to hurry. But, whenever we hurry too fast we might mess up so we kind of have to do it slow and fast at the

WHEN DOES YOUR PLANTING SEASON BEGIN, AND HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU WORK? Emma Mayes (20) - Our planting season begins in April where we buy seeds and decide where to plant them. How many days depends on how much we grow and how fast we sell them. You have to work the field, buy seeds, plant seeds, put up electric wire to deter deer, move vines to make room, pull weeds, spray the plants, harvest, and go to market.

I like to do is probably like some pumpkins and corn. And - what’s it

Christian Mayes (15) - We plant in early May and how many days we work varies from year to year.

hardest part about farming is picking corn in the summer because it’s so hot, and we have to do it so fast.

24

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

flower, vegetable, or fruit grow is so exciting. Plus, it’s really easy to sell!

Being able to talk about what you’re selling is so important when you’re at market and people can tell when you like the product. You can tell them your favorite way to show flowers or cook your favorite fruit or veggie, and they are more likely to buy it.

to get a feel for it and slowly expand as is necessary.

Claira Bell (7) - Start by buying some

Claira Bell (7) - We plant in the spring, and we harvest corn in the summer.

Then we plant pumpkins in the fall and then we pick pumpkins in the late fall.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM STARTING AND WORKING IN THIS BUSINESS? Emma Mayes (20) - I’ve learned about working hard and where my food comes from. I’ve also learned about the value of money from a young age, how to talk to customers, and how to grow my own food.

of the materials. You definitely need wire because your corn could be all gone. What kind of wire? Electrical fence wire because it keeps animals and stuff away from the corn. What do they do to the corn? They knock it down, and they eat it and a bunch of worms can take over after that.

Violet Pullum (5) - The first thing that I would do is probably show em’ around where the vineyard is, and where we cut and where we should do all of that stuff. Probably next, I would give them supplies and then

Claira Bell (7) - I learned that we can’t always do it by ourselves, and we need help sometimes with selling some of our stuff.

Violet Pullum (5) - I’ve learned how to be nice to people and help people and be kind to people and learn how to count money and learn how to sell.

called again? So, selling is your favorite part? Yeah, because I get money! The

favorite plants! Seeing your favorite

Christian Mayes (15) - Start off small

same time.

Violet Pullum (5) - The things that

Emma Mayes (20) - Grow your

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER KIDS INTERESTED IN STARTING A FARMING BUSINESS?

we will go into the vineyard and mark all the way over to that barn and go down the hill - probably go past the bee nest. We would start putting up the electric fence and probably after that we would probably turn on the fence so no one can eat. So deers can’t eat the corn. If deers hop over the electric fence then they would take over and then after that the worms would take over because they’re tiny enough they can fit through that hole in the bottom.

HF

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

25

COMMUNITY

HENDERSON LOCALS TAKE ON TOKYO! Written by Kaycee Inge

G

26

oing

from

Henderson,

Education First Tours, or EF

enough to be a part of this trip, and it’s

Kentucky

with

a

city

Tours, is a tour company that provides

all thanks to Dalton Inge, Computer

population

just

shy

of

student-oriented trips all around the

Information Technology teacher at

28,000 to Tokyo, Japan, the biggest

world. This particular trip to Tokyo

Henderson County High School.

metropolitan

was all about science, technology,

area

in

the

world

“The trip being all about STEM

housing 39.1 million people is sure

engineering,

mathematics

and what is progressing technology

to be a culture shock. This past

(STEM). Twenty students and recent

forward is just really cool. Also,

summer of 2023, thirty-two lucky

graduates from Henderson County

offering the trip out so far in advance

Hendersonians got to experience the

High School and 12 adults braved this

made it so much more feasible for a

bright lights, big city atmosphere,

journey to Tokyo in an effort to further

wider range of kids to go. It started

and the sense of wonder that makes

their knowledge about some of the

to be planned almost two years before

Tokyo one of the most popular tourist

greatest up and coming research

the trip itself, so that let parents make

destinations in the world.

and technology out there. I was lucky

payments in increments and allowed

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

and

phones and Google

I was incredibly excited to begin seeing

translate to figure out

Tokyo and start our tour. The first day of

the Japanese menus

the tour came with a trip to the Shibuya

while others looked

Station, The Tokyo Skytree, and lastly a

at the pictures and

hotpot style dinner. The Shibuya Station

hoped for the best.

was incredible, and clearly well designed,

Regardless

the

varying strongly from the architectural

choice they made for

style in America, and more suited to the

dinner, the exhausted

need to build structures for so many people

of

passing

through

Japan’s

largest

city. I was impressed by Japan’s accommodations for foreigners and families to save to be able to send

people with disabilities at the station.

their kids on the trip of a lifetime. I

The Skytree was incredible, and

really hope to offer the trip again in

although I’m afraid of heights, I did

a few years,” stated Dalton.

stand on the glass floor for a picture.

Lastly, the hotpot dinner was a lot of

THE TRIP BEGINS!

fun, and I got to serve as my table’s

The trip began with over 28

assigned cook. I even got one of my

hours of straight travel. It was

picky friends to try some Japanese

a guarantee that everyone was

food he wouldn’t have before. In all

exhausted by the time we arrived in the Narita Airport, but we managed

group returned early to the hotel for a

to make it safe and sound and met our

much needed night of sleep before the real

wonderful tour guide named Yoshi, who

adventure began.

made the trip even more special for us.

Yoshi guided us from the airport to our

it was an incredible day and a great start to the trip!”

THE FIRST FULL DAY

hotel and helped us all find somewhere

The next morning, we awoke bright

good to eat before crashing after the long

and early to eat a breakfast of rice, noodles,

day.

fried chicken, French fries, and many other

While some found familiarity and

interesting foods. The hotel staff tried to

comfort in the Burger King and the 7/11

be very accommodating to our American

convenience store down the road from

palettes, which for some was much

the hotel, others branched off into food

appreciated. Our private tour bus picked

unknown, exploring the local ramen and

us up, and from there we set off. Local

sushi shops and hoping they had English

senior Ben Frederick recounts how his first

menus. Many students used their cell

day went: “On the first day after the flight,

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

27

COMMUNITY

FAVORITE PARTS OF THE TRIP With the wide variety of activities and places we saw in Japan, it is definitely hard to choose a favorite. Below are the favorite parts of some of the students who went on the trip: “TeamLab Planets Tokyo had to be my absolute favorite activity. For some context, I process senses a little bit differently and more intensely than others, so this was an amazing experience. All the lights, water, and projections were so nice to look at and touch, and there was a room where flowers would rise and fall from the ceiling. We got to lay in that room for about 10 minutes, and by the end, I was tearing up from how relaxed I felt in that moment,” said Zavor Murphy, local high school junior.

“One of my favorite parts of the trip was going to Karaoke. While I don’t think I can

A PACKED SCHEDULE

sing all that well, it was fun to

The days that followed were filled

see everyone having a great time

with science museums, disaster

and Yoshi was amazing singing

prevention parks and simulations,

Bohemian Rhapsody,” recounted

and incredible views of the city and

Marc Carter.

Mt. Fuji. We viewed and interacted

Penn

with incredible robotics, including

school

the artificial limb technology found

senior,

Raleigh,

high

had

similar

thoughts. “My favorite part of

at CyberDyne Studios and the

the trip was doing karaoke with

reactive therapy seals named Paro

Yoshi and going with the group

that responded to touch and voice.

that was going to Akihabara to

Some of the group members even

play claw machines was a blast.”

experienced earthquake simulators

Henderson County High School graduate,

Ben Frederick had more

that shook them around the room.

found this part of town to be incredibly

of a personal favorite from an adventure all

fascinating:

his own: “My favorite part of the trip was

By the time we arrived back at the hotel at the end of each evening, everyone was

“I thought that Akihabara was very

when I was able to take a slight journey

exhausted, but some pushed themselves

intriguing. I heard a lot about what it looked

to find the only souvenir I had planned on

like and was looking forward to seeing it.

purchasing in Japan, a Yanagiba. While

I wasn’t disappointed either; several of us

working at Koi: Asian Fusion, I found the

further to get as much out of Tokyo as they possibly could. Many students found joy in visiting the Akihabara prefecture, a part of the city known as the anime and video game hub. You could find them playing rhythm games, winning figures and stuffed video game characters out of

traveled together to the district days before we were scheduled to visit. We saw it all at night and it was a completely different experience. They call Akihabara the electric

knives of the sushi chefs interesting, and I had asked about them while I worked there.” Ben was able to find a special knife shop after asking the workers at our sushi class about where to find this type of knife.

claw machines, and buying trinkets to take

town due to all the lights and it was amazing

home for themselves and their families.

to see it all at night. It was also very nice to

turned out to be his favorite because of the

This district was definitely where we spent

see so much pop culture concentrated in

kindness of the locals he met. “It was really

the most time and it feels like we barely got

one place, such as merchandise for popular

special to get to interact with people along

to explore any of it. Marc Carter, a recent

games and shows.”

the way and I really got a sense of what the

28

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

The experience of looking for the knife

different areas of Tokyo are like while looking around.”

THE HEARTBREAKING GOODBYE Getting on the bus for the final time was hard for us all, although we were ready to go home to see our families. This trip was filled with constant entertainment and we learned so much about not only Japan and its culture, but also about the coming technologies that the rest of the world has yet to see. When asked if they would like to return one day, these trip-goers had similar responses: “Most definitely.” -Zavor Murphy “Yes, I would love to.” -Marc Carter “I would love to return to Japan someday.” -Ben Frederick “I plan on going back as soon as I can.” -Penn Raleigh If you plan on going to Japan yourself, Penn has some advice: “If you ever decide to go to Japan and play claw machines, make sure that you have a plan for bringing home as well as storing or selling any figures you don’t want.”

Overall, our trip was amazing in ways we could have only dreamed before going. Everyone who went was touched by the city of Tokyo and its beauty, and we all can’t wait to go back one day.

Until next time, Japan!

HF

KAYCEE INGE has lived in Henderson her entire life and plans to keep it that way. She loves animals and movies, and enjoys drawing with charcoal and working on local political campaigns in her spare time.

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

29

PAID ADVERTORIAL

THE THIRD ANNUAL

Pumpkin & Pickle Festival

H

ot off the heels of the successful Strawberry Festival, The Cottage Farm Stand & Baking Co. is gearing up for the third annual Pumpkin & Pickle Festival on

October 21st and 22nd from 9am to 4pm each day.

“I always look forward to fall weather when the days begin to cool and the pumpkin patch is full. I know fall is here,” said Marlene Knight, owner of The Cottage. “Pickling vegetables is one of my favorite things to do. My plan is to always have enough pickles on hand to get me through the winter, but they never last that long in my house,” Knight says with a laugh. “We try to keep The Cottage stocked with pickled beets, Kosher dill pickles, pickled okra, bread & butter, hot & spicy —you name it and we pickle it.”

The festival will offer pumpkin treats & all things pickled for every palette. There will be fried pickles, pickle Kentucky Kolache, pickle tater tots, pickle popcorn, pumpkin & pickle shaped desserts, slushies and more. “We like to let our imagination run wild. The festival is only two days long so we want to pack as much fun with two fan favorites as we can into this event,” Knight said.

There will be 10+ food trucks. “I’m excited to be able to offer even more food options at this event. The Cottage will be open and serving our customer’s favorites, but we hope you’ll get to taste something new too,” Knight said.

Visitors may browse the pumpkin patch and enjoy a free petting zoo on the farm. The corn maze includes a game associated with 10 mailboxes hidden in the maze. A prize is awarded at the end. It’s $5.00 per person. Children under 2 are free.

Over 100 vendors will be setting up shop. You’ll find everything from jewelry to clothing to houseware. Anyone interested in renting a booth should contact Marlene via email at marleneknightevents@gmail or send a message via The Cottage Facebook page.

New this year will be a contest with prizes awarded for the most voted for pickle or pumpkin themed outfits for adults, children or a family group of 3 or more. Entry details may be found on the Cottage Facebook page @cottagehwy56

30

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

HF

Discover

ADVICE AND TIPS ON H OW TO M AKE PARENTING AN D L IFE EASIER

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

31

DISCOVER

TIPS FOR PLANTING A

fall garden Written by Mandy Sue Glaser

F

all is a great time to busy yourself in the garden and yard. Planting a fall vegetable garden, spring blooming bulbs, cool season annual flower seeds, biannual flower seeds, herbs, perennials, trees and shrubs, and mulching, composting and fertilizing are just several things you can take advantage of during the cooler weather.

GETTING THE SOIL PREPPED When beginning a fall vegetable garden, your first step will be preparing the soil. At our farm, Rain’R Shine, we focus on soil health so we don’t usually till. Instead, we have permanent beds and rows that are created by tarping the grass and adding layers of compost as topsoil once the tarp is removed.

This involves leaving a silage tarp on the area you plan to garden for six

32

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

weeks in the summer and even longer in other seasons. Once the grass is dead you remove the tarp and rake up the remaining debris. However, tilling is an option, especially if this is the first time you are breaking ground. For established spring gardens, clearing out spring vegetables and weeds will be your first step. Fertilizing and composting will be the last step before planting your seeds and transplants. I can’t emphasize enough the importance and impact the addition of compost can have on your plants. It is a step I wouldn’t leave out! We mix it in and use it as mulch. There are many local resources for getting great compost.

This year we tried Jerry O’Bryan’s Pig Farm in Owensboro, whose compost is acceptable for organic crop production.

ROOTS AND GREENS ARE GREAT FALL CROPS First, we can talk about carrots because they are somewhat more complicated to grow. Dark, deep, soft soil is the dirt you want to see in your garden. Compacted ground is something to avoid, so building your soil up with compost is a must for most plants, but so important for carrots.

When harvesting carrots you will be very thankful for the deep loose soil.

Once seeded, carrots need to stay moist until they germinate. One trick to help with the moisture is to tarp them until they sprout. However, with this method you must pay very close attention and remove the tarp as soon as they sprout, or you may end up killing your plants.

Once sprouted, the seedlings will need to be watered often. Sometimes an

Once the soil is prepared, I really like

germination rates.

broadcasting the seeds, and lightly

When planting seeds follow the

raking and tamping the seeds into the

guidelines for zone 6b and be sure to

soil with a garden rake. It’s as easy as

follow the seed packets for the planting

that! The seeds will need to stay moist

depth and spacing.

while they germinate and are young plants. Radishes will also benefit from a

POLLINATION AND HEALTHY

light additional watering during the hot

ECOSYSTEMS IN YOUR BACKYARD

days at the end of summer.

The last plant I want to mention is

Lettuce and greens are a plant to

the addition of flowers for pollination

consider in your fall garden. Leaf lettuce

and a healthy ecosystem. Flowers bring

mixes can be planted like radishes, by

pollinators into your garden, and some

broadcasting the seeds and tamping

even act as trap plants to harmful insects.

them into the soil with a garden rake.

These aspects will help your vegetables

At our farm, we don’t usually broadcast

and greens thrive. Zinnias are a great late

seeds due to the strategic system we

summer annual. They are easy to plant

use for market gardening, but it works

from seed, and some varieties mature

great on a small scale in a home garden.

and bloom in as little as 35 days.

Lettuce can benefit from the use of shade

additional light watering in the afternoon can be helpful to cool them down from the midday summer heat. Hoops can be made from pvc pipes or spring wires, and covered with shade cloth to also keep the summer heat at bay.

Radishes are another root I’d like to mention because they are so easy.

clothes on small caterpillar tunnels

IF FALL PLANTING ISN’T AN OPTION

made with pvc or spring wire. Watering

If planting this fall isn’t an option,

in the morning keeps fungus at bay, but

you can consider prepping your garden

remember a light midday sprinkle can

for spring by covering the soil with a

cool greens off during hot sunny days

silage tarp or mulches, such as fall leaves,

just like your roots.

compost and cardboard, or by planting

Head lettuce is an additional option.

a cover crop. Fall gardening is an often

If you aren’t buying transplants, you

overlooked opportunity to get another

may need to start seeds in trays by late

harvest in and to enjoy time outdoors

August before they can be transplanted

before the Kentucky winter sets in. Good

into your garden. We have achieved this

luck and happy planting!

HF

by germinating the seeds in trays in the shade during the day and placing them under a plant light at night, or starting indoors with a plant light. If you don’t have a plant light you can try filtered light, but direct sunlight and summer heat can cause lettuce to not have great

MANDY SUE GLASER is a local farmer, photographer, illustrator and author at Rain’R Shine Farm and Wild WILD light Photography. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and pets, and being part of the community of Henderson, Kentucky.

She believes in finding ways to improve her surroundings and the environment she is a part of, and embraces the idea of “leaving things better than how we find them.”

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

33

DISCOVER

The Book Nook All of these books are available for check out at the Henderson County Public Library.

Finn’s Fun Trucks: Farm Fleet By: Finn Coyle Finn loves trucks! In this book, Finn features some of his favorite farm machines, like a tractor and a harvester, and with the help of Sandy the farmer explains the important job each one has on the farm.

Driving My Tractor By: Jan Dobbins Follows a farmer through his very busy day as he drives his tractor and transport heavy loads in the attached trailer, including fifteen friendly animals. Includes information on crops and the different vehicles that farmers use.

Pig and Pug By: Laura Marchesani and Zenaides A. Medina Jr. Pig lives on a farm with lots of other animals. All the animals have friends, but Pig does not. One day a new animal comes to the farm. Pug has a curly tail like Pig. Pug plays in the mud like Pig. Pug even snorts like Pig. Pug is not a pig, but maybe, just maybe, Pig and Pug can be friends!

Aaron Loves Apples and Pumpkins By: P.D. Eastman As Aaron the Alligator’s thoughts turn to apples, pumpkins, football, and . . . ghosts, his usual mishaps occur while playing outdoors with his friends. Young readers will giggle along as they tackle the simple words and sentences all on their own.

Logan’s Greenhouse By: JaNay Brown-Wood Logan searches for carrots in his wheelchair-accessible greenhouse in this vibrant exploration of gardening and healthy eating, from the Where in the Garden? picture book series.

Logan is organizing a pet playdate at his greenhouse for all of his friends, and his treats won’t be the same without his carrots. He’s searched and searched, but his greenhouse is filled with plenty of plants and Logan needs our help to identify them. What do we know about carrots? They’re long, orange, and have bushy leaves at the top-and, wait a moment, is that a carrot? No, that’s a turnip. Where, oh, where could those carrots be? Can you help Logan find them in time for his playdate?

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DISCOVER

M A K E FA L L M E M O R I E S

Your Ultimate Fall Bucket List Written by Jacqueline Jordan Russell

After a sweltering summer, fall is finally here! Autumn weather and holidays give the opportunity for lots of memory making with family and friends, but if you’re short on ideas for things to do, this fall bucket list is sure to inspire!

Indoor Fall Activities: ›› Carve pumpkins ›› Make homemade caramel apples ›› Host a fall movie night ›› Make apple or pumpkin baked goods ›› Perfect your soup or chili recipe ›› Make a fall bouquet from sunflowers, mums and leaves ›› Decorate your home for fall ›› Open your windows and let the crisp fall air in ›› Light fall candles ›› Create a fall wreath ›› Enjoy warm apple cider ›› Roast pumpkin seeds ›› Bake cookies ›› Enjoy a pumpkin spice latte ›› Eat candy corn ›› Collect and press fall leaves ›› Host or attend a chili cook-off ›› Have a game night and play Clue ›› Attend or host a mystery dinner theater ›› Visit a spooky escape room

Outdoor Fall Activities: ›› Visit a pumpkin patch ›› Plant fall flowers like mums, or tulip bulbs that will bloom in the spring ›› Have a bonfire (complete with s'mores)

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

›› Take a drive to look at the changing leaves ›› Walk in the woods ›› Attend a football game or tailgate ›› Go apple picking ›› Attend a fall festival ›› Go on a hayride ›› Explore a corn maze ›› Decorate your front porch with bales of hay, corn stalks, pumpkins and mums. ›› Have a fall photo shoot with your loved ones ›› Rake leaves and jump in ›› Play touch football ›› Make a scarecrow ›› Go canoeing or kayaking in the cooler weather ›› Bike ride on a scenic trail like the Greenbelt ›› Go on a picnic ›› Go stargazing and enjoy the earlier sunsets

Halloween Bucket List: ›› Learn the Thriller dance moves ›› Create and listen to a Halloween playlist ›› Go trick-or-treating or hand out treats on Halloween ›› Host a Halloween scavenger hunt ›› Build a Halloween gingerbread house

Thanksgiving Bucket List: ›› Send “thankful for you’ cards to important people in your life ›› Celebrate friendsgiving ›› Watch Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade ›› Create a Thanksgiving craft ›› Black Friday shop ›› Volunteer JACQUELINE JORDAN RUSSELL is a marketing specialist, freelance writer and photographer. She has a passion for celebrating every day moments and basically leaves a trail of confetti wherever she goes.

Giving Thanksgiving Away Written by Lora Wimsatt

T

hanksgiving is the season dedicated to reflecting in a spirit of gratitude on all the blessings of our lives … being thankful for the things we have.

It’s a great idea, and one that really ought not be limited to one day a year.

After all, when you really stop and think about it, most of us have quite a lot for which to be thankful: Health, comfortable homes, loving families, more than enough food to eat, a car that starts every morning, a job that allows us to pay the bills …

But it’s also a pretty good idea, while we’re at it, to be thankful for all the things we DON’T have – and that same list comes into a new light when we look at it from that angle.

Illness; maybe serious illness.

Looming eviction, or even homelessness. Dysfunctional or abusive families. Not knowing where the next meal is coming from, or whether there will even

be a next meal. A broken-down car you can’t afford to fix, or one without gas, or no vehicle at all.

A job that pays maximum stress but minimum wage, certainly not enough to meet all the financial obligations that are piling up.

The point here is not to heap guilt on anyone for their good fortune. By all means, give thanks and enjoy!

But especially for parents, grandparents or anyone who has a child in their lives, this holiday season opens the door for the kinds of lessons that change lives.

Kids learn what we teach them, and what better thing to teach a child than compassion for others – and being grateful for the means and opportunity to bring joy to another person, especially when done discreetly or even anonymously.

This Thanksgiving season, consider asking your children or grandchildren to list some of the things for which they are thankful,

and then challenge them to think of ways they can share their blessings with others.

Best of all, encourage your child to think of things that are not material possessions. Even the youngest child can comprehend and

express

appreciation

for

having a friend, for playing with someone who plays nicely, shares and takes turns. Those are gifts too, and worthy of gratitude, and what a great feeling to treat others in such a way that you know they are thankful to have you as their friend.

Who

knows?

Thinking

of

all the things that someone else might not have – a smile, a kind word – and then being the instrument that gives that gift … well, it might turn out that giving Thanksgiving away makes it the best Thanksgiving of all.

HF

LORA WIMSATT is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

Out & About

EV ENTS A ND AC T IV IT IES FOR HEN D ERSO N FA MIL IES

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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OUT & ABOUT

7 LOCAL THINGS

2

TO DO

2023 HENDERSON LIONS CLUB ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

this season

SATU R DAY, O CTO BER 7 - SUNDAY, O CTO BER 8 @ 10A M - 4PM J OH N J A M E S AUDUBON STATE PAR K

{

The Lions Club Arts & Crafts Festival in Henderson, KY features a large variety of arts and crafts and all items from vendors are handmade and one of a kind. This is the perfect time to purchase gifts for the holidays or to just grab lunch from one of the many food trucks and take a stroll around the park. Bring your friends and family for a day of relaxing and to check out some of the most enjoyable artisans and craftspeople showing off their wares. Admission to the festival is free, but there is a $5.00 parking fee for visitors good for the entire day of arrival. Shuttle service provided throughout the park as a courtesy from the Henderson Lions Club. All information for the Arts and Crafts Festival can be found on the Henderson Lions Club website listed below or by emailing hendersoncitylions@gmail.com.

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FIFTH ANNUAL CHILI COOK OFF SATU R DAY, O CTO B ER 14 @ 11AM - 1PM

1

COFFEE WITH A COP WE D NE SDAY, OCTOBER 4 @ 7 - 9A M (M C DONALD’S NORT H)

THURSDAY, N OVEM BER 16 @ 7 - 9A M (A N T LE R S P EC IALT Y G OODS)

{

Throughout the year, officers from the Henderson Police Department will be visiting local businesses and establishments to allow the community to share some coffee with them, ask questions, and be able to put a face and name to the officers which serve in your community.

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

DOWNTOWN H E NDE RSON

{

Don’t miss the event that sells out every year! 1) Order your chili mug online and pick up at the Chamber office – they will have a limited number of chili mugs available on site at the event. Cost is $12. Your mug is your ticket.

2) On October 14th, check in at the Chamber tent to receive your spoon and 1 voting ticket.

3) Sample chili from all of the participating teams. 4) Use your ticket and/or cash to vote for your favorite(s).

5) Shop the Market on Main! While you’re sampling delicious chili, you’ll be raising money for local nonprofits! Every dollar and ticket placed in each team’s jar will be donated to a non-profit of their choosing. Mugs will be available for preorder mid-late September.

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CAMPGROUND HALLOWEEN F RIDAY, OC TOBER 13 & SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14 J O HN J A ME S AU D U B ON S TAT E PAR K

{

Book your campsite, get your costumes ready and pull out your spookiest decorations–you won’t want to miss this pre-holiday fun! Contests, magic show, trick-or-treating, and MORE FREE activities will take place throughout the weekend.

This event is for campground guests only, so reserve your site before they’re gone. Go to ReserveAmerica.com today!

5

ROAD TO THE RODEO SATU R DAY, O CTO BER 28 @ 5PM H E NDE RSON COUNT Y FA IRGR OU ND S

{

Join in for a high energy horse show, food, games, and fun for the whole family. Events include Extreme Trail, Bash N’ Splash, Texas 8, Dueling Keyhole, Calf Roping, Freestyle, Pole Bending, Flag Racing, and Barrel Racing.

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OUT & ABOUT

6

ART HOP F R I DAY, N OV EMB ER 3 @ 5 - 9PM DOWNTOWN H E NDE RSON

{

Stroll the quaint streets in downtown to visit pop-up galleries featuring more than 50 artists from around the region. Enjoy, admire, and purchase original works of art. It’s the perfect opportunity to start your holiday shopping early in Henderson while enjoying complimentary food, beverages, and entertainment.

For more information, please call 270-826-7505.

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DIAMONDS AND DENIM GALA AND DINNER SATU R DAY, N OV EMBER 4 @ 5:30 - 11PM FA RM E R & F RE NCH M A N WINE R Y

{

Join the annual “Diamonds and Denim” Gala to benefit Healing Reins of Kentucky, Inc. Begin your evening with appetizers and drinks during their social cocktail hour, from 5:30-6:30. Enjoy a delicious dinner at Farmer and Frenchman and an entertaining live auction. Then dancing starts at 8:15pm.

Special guest speakers include Coach Kermit Davis, head coach for the Ole Miss Rebels from 2018 to 2023. Bid on our exciting live auction items that include a PGA Championship trip, Land Rover Excursion, Kentucky Castle stays, UK Basketball and Football tickets, exciting trips and more! All proceeds benefit our local 501c3 non-profit Healing Reins of Kentucky, Inc. and fund several programs of Equine Assisted Services. For more information, please call 270-854-3150.

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

KIDS

meal deals

SUNDAY

Tumbleweed

1 free kids meal for every adult entree

MONDAY

Rookies Sports Bar & Grill

Kids under 8 eat free with purchase of adult entree from 4-10pm (Dine-In Only)

TUESDAY

Fazoli’s

.99 kids meal with adult purchase 5-8pm

Wings Etc. Kids eat free 5-8 with purchase of adult entree

SATURDAY

Tacoholics

1 free kids meal per adult entree (dine in ONLY) *The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation. Restaurants, please contact lyndi@ tannerpublishing.com with additions or corrections.

Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Free kids meal with adult meal purchase.

ONGOING

Shoney’s

Kids under 4 eat free with adult purchase.

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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FROM OUR READERS

Summer

ADVENTURES Follow Henderson Family on Facebook to submit your photos!

SPONSORED BY 44

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

45

FROM OUR READERS

Summer

ADVENTURES Follow Henderson Family on Facebook to submit your photos!

SPONSORED BY 46

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

47

FROM OUR READERS

Summer

ADVENTURES Follow Henderson Family on Facebook to submit your photos!

SPONSORED BY 48

HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

October // November 2023 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023

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HENDERSON FAMILY . October // November 2023