I have to go with two answers — one before my family and one with my family. In college, I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain for a semester. While I was there, I had the opportunity to visit London, Dublin, Rome, Paris, and the Swiss Alps, and it remains one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve ever had. Since starting a family, my favorite trip has been our California road trip, where we explored San Francisco, the Redwoods, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite together.
ASHLEY
My favorite place that I have traveled to is Portland, Oregon. The motto in Portland is, "keep Portland weird." And they do a wonderful job doing that in the most positive respects. Everyone you interact with is hospitable and kind. The coffee is great. Food options are amazing. Lots of different entertainment to experience.
EDITORIAL
EDITOR
Ashley Wedding
CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Danielle Crafton
Andrea King
Lora Wimsatt
Do you have a story idea?
We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to ashley.wedding@blackbox.media.
ADVERTISING
ACCOUNT DIRECTORS
Brock Quinton
Wendall Hallam
Owensboro Parent 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.quinton@blackbox.media.
To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 270-297-1600.
PUBLISHERS
Jason Tanner
Christy Chaney
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ryan Richardson
2624-A New Hartford Rd. Owensboro, KY 42303 270-297-1600 WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE YOU HAVE TRAVELED?
WENDALL
Iceland tops every country that we have ever visited. It’s where I married my amazing husband, and the entire country seemed weirdly committed to making our wedding look like we were starring in a fantasy novel.
JAMIE
Traveling with four children with a 12-year age gap means someone is always unhappy about something. But every few years in Asheville, NC, there’s this perfect moment where everyone is standing knee-deep in the river silently casting fly rods, and somehow everything feels still and you learn that fly fishing and raising children require the same thing: patience. It helps they also have some really great food too!
CHRISTY
The Rutmans are telling their
TAKE A HIKE
For Spring Break, we made a quick trip to Garden of the Gods in southern Illinois, and it truly felt magical. Mason loved climbing, rock jumping, and exploring the trails — and it’s surprisingly close for such a beautiful outdoor adventure.
A VISIT TO WATKINS
I can’t recommend Watkins Nursery enough. They helped me choose all the plants for our landscaping and even assisted with the layout design. I may have gone a little overboard with annuals this year… but no regrets.
DAY TRIP TO VASTWOOD PARK
We spent Drew’s birthday exploring Vastwood Park in Hancock County with a little fishing, tennis, and lunch at Galaxy Pizza. It made for the perfect low-key family day trip.
GOOSE GOALS
I showed you my porch goose two issues ago — now meet Toots and Bootjack, named after their previous owners, Drew’s greatgrandparents. After a fresh coat of paint, the pair now proudly live in our front yard and bring me an unreasonable amount of joy.
FAN GIRL MOMENT
I had the chance to meet Tanner Smith from Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum when he spoke at a caregiver conference in late April. He was every bit as kind, genuine, and joyful as you’d hope he would be.
From the Editor
I take summer break very seriously.
While I love the idea of carefree summer days where everyone wakes up and figures things out as they go, that’s just not our reality most of the time. With both Drew and I working from home, summer around our house needs a little more structure — okay, sometimes a lot more structure. I need a plan.
Every year, before summer officially begins, we sit down with a calendar and map everything out. Camps, sports practices, training sessions, volunteer shifts, vacations, tickets, events — it all goes on the calendar first so we can see what our summer really looks like before it starts flying by.
Then comes my favorite part: the Summer Bucket List.
One of the perks of putting together Owensboro Parent’s Summer Guide is that my family gets an early look at all the amazing things happening around our community. Truthfully, I’ve been compiling this information since late February, and every year I walk away amazed at just how much there is for families to do here.
We use this guide to help plan our summer adventures — both the big outings and the simple moments. Some traditions always make the list: a trip to Holiday World (we absolutely cannot wait to see the giant rubber duck this year), snow cones from as many local stands as possible, and a double feature at the Holiday Drive-In. But as the kids get older, our list changes too. Some traditions fade, new ones get added, and our summer starts to look a little different every year.
I’ve learned that having a plan doesn’t make summer less fun — it actually helps us make the most of our time together. It gives us room for both structure and spontaneity, while still allowing Drew and me to balance work and family life during one of the busiest and most memory-filled seasons of the year.
I hope this guide becomes as useful for your family as it is for mine. We are incredibly lucky to live in a community that puts so much energy into family fun, and I hope these pages help you discover a few new traditions, adventures, and moments together this summer.
Here’s to a season full of sunshine, late bedtimes, sticky fingers, and memories you’ll still be talking about long after school starts again.
CRAVENS TEACHER HONORED AS NEW TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Mrs. Cassidy Stewart was recently surprised in front of her third grade students and fellow teachers at Cravens Elementary with the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative’s New Teacher of the Year award. Stewart said she knew she had completed the application process, but had no idea she was a finalist — much less the recipient of the honor.
Along with the award, Stewart received a full tuition scholarship to pursue her master’s degree through the Elevate Academy. Cravens Principal Natalie Ellis praised Stewart’s dedication to her students, saying she goes above and beyond to ensure every child has the support they need to succeed.
STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE
Students from Daviess County Public Schools’ Engineering Academy at Apollo High School were recently recognized for their accomplishments in the Congressional App Challenge. Congressman Brett Guthrie visited the school to meet with students who designed and built original apps as part of the nationwide STEM competition.
During the visit, students had the opportunity to showcase their app designs and explain the ideas behind their projects. Guthrie presented certificates to several students who placed in the competition and praised their creativity and dedication to technology and innovation.
The Congressional App Challenge, established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, encourages middle and high school students to explore STEM fields by creating original software applications for computers, tablets, or mobile devices. Guthrie noted that more than 60 apps were submitted to his office this year, highlighting the growing interest in technology among local students.
SORGHO STUDENTS TURN CREATIVITY INTO A PUBLISHED BOOK
Students in Mrs. Hamblen’s class recently celebrated becoming published authors with the release of their collaborative book, Welcome to Hamblenville. The imaginative project invited students to design their own dream town, complete with unique buildings, creative characters, and colorful illustrations.
Throughout the process, students learned each step of writing and publishing, including brainstorming ideas, drafting stories, illustrating pages, and assembling the final book. The class celebrated the accomplishment by reading their pages aloud and sharing the inspiration behind their work, proving that writing can be both meaningful and fun.
Meet Sara Aud
Sara is an occupational therapist with Ohio County Healthcare by day and one of the Founding Partners of Palm and Parke Travel by night—which really just means that she never stops talking about travel!
TO START, TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. WHO’S IN YOUR CREW?
My husband, Kyle Aud, is the President and CEO of Cornerstone Community Bank, and he somehow keeps all of us grounded while I’m dreaming up our next adventure.
We have four beautiful kiddos: Emelia (who would have been turning 13 this August), Ellington (11), Holden (10), and Brooks (8). After Emelia passed away, it changed Kyle and I in a lot of ways - as you can imagine. Our babes are truly at the center of everything that we do—and the reason we’ve built a life that leans hard into time together, memory-making, and saying “yes” as often as we can to the moments that matter the most.
WHEN DID YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL BEGIN, AND HOW HAS BECOMING A MOM SHAPED THE WAY YOU TRAVEL?
I think I’ve loved to “go” for as long as I can remember. My dad never flew—he always said "if God wanted him to fly, He would have given him wings"—which never quite made sense to me since he loved driving anything with wheels and God didn't give him those either. But I digress! So while we didn’t travel to far off and exotic lands as a family when I was little, my parents were incredibly generous in supporting opportunities when they came along. I took my first international trip in 4th grade with close family friends, and I was absolutely hooked from that point forward!
Becoming parents didn’t slow us down—but it definitely reshaped how we travel. We always wanted our kids to feel comfortable in airports, to experience different cultures, and to see the world beyond our backyard. What changed was the intention behind it. We became more thoughtful planners, more strategic packers, and more flexible humans. The little details—snacks, timing, downtime—became the big things. And we learned quickly that “perfect” trips aren’t the goal—connected, memory-filled ones are.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO TURN YOUR PASSION FOR TRAVEL INTO A CAREER?
A few years after my dad passed away, my mom decided she wanted to take our entire family on a big trip. So, 15 of us—eight kids included—headed to Europe together. I planned every detail from start to finish, and somewhere between coordinating flights, navigating logistics, and watching it all come together, I realized I had found my creative outlet.
But the real moment was at the airport—watching my family arrive excited and carefree, not stressed about the details because I had taken care of them. That feeling stuck with me. The memories from that trip are priceless, and now I get to help other families—whether they’re seasoned travelers or just starting out—experience places they once felt were out of reach. That’s truly the dream.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES AS A FAMILY?
It’s almost impossible to choose, but a few really stand out.
Our Disney trips are always at the top—there’s just something so special about seeing your kids fully immersed in that kind of magic. It really is what everyone says it is - “the happiest place on earth.”
We also took a trip out west to Glacier, Yellowstone, and the Grand Tetons, and seeing my husband so completely in his element made that one unforgettable. And then Europe—watching our kids explore France, Italy, Malta, and Spain, try new foods, learn different cultures, and handle jet lag like pros—I was one proud (and slightly emotional!) mama. But I certainly
cannot forget our most frequented spot - Rosemary Beach, Florida - it's still my kiddos' favorite place on earth and it just might be mine too.
FOR
FAMILIES WHO FEEL OVERWHELMED BY TRAVELING WITH KIDS, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE?
Give me a call—kidding… but also not!
In all honesty, the hardest part of travel is usually just figuring out where to begin. Once you have a plan, everything feels so much more manageable. My biggest advice is to keep it simple and set realistic expectations. Build in downtime, don’t overschedule, and remember—kids don’t need perfection, they need presence.
As my Disney and European clients will tell you, my motto is “firm but flexible.” When we get too rigid with a schedule, we often miss out on the very best, unexpected moments.
A little preparation goes a long way, too. Snacks, entertainment, and a positive mindset can solve most travel hiccups. And don’t be afraid to start small—a quick trip can build confidence for bigger adventures later!
HOW CAN FAMILIES BRING A SENSE OF ADVENTURE INTO SUMMER, EVEN CLOSE TO HOME?
We live in such a beautiful part of the country, and it’s easy to forget how much there is to explore right in our backyard. I always suggest creating a local “summer bucket list” as a family.
Things like hiking at Jeffrey's Cliffs, taking a day trip to Mammoth Cave, heading out for a fishing day at Kentucky Lake, or even something as simple as laying in the backyard and watching the stars.
Adventure doesn’t have to mean far away—it just means being intentional and a little curious!
WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO TRAVEL HACK FOR FAMILIES?
A few simple things go a long way: pack snacks (always more than you think you’ll need), bring a change of clothes in your carry-on (not negotiable), and download movies or shows ahead of time. Those three things alone can truly save the day!
But my favorite “hack” is actually more of a tradition—we take each of our kids on a one-on-one trip for their 10th birthday. They get to choose the destination, and while they’ve dreamed up some pretty incredible places, I truly think it’s the one-on-one time with Kyle and me that means the most.
The beauty of it is that it can be as simple or as big as you want—a day trip to the movies or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the other side of the world. It’s such a special way to connect with each child individually, and those trips have become some of our most meaningful memories.
WHAT’S YOUR DREAM FAMILY TRIP SOMEDAY?
There are so many! Paris is high on my list—I love it so, so much and I can’t wait to experience it with our babes. I’d also love to take them back to Maui, where Kyle and I honeymooned, and relive that chapter with them.
But if we’re dreaming big… an African safari would be at the very top. That’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences I would love for all of us to share! OP
KEEPING IT REAL
RELATABLE STORIES FROM LOCAL PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS
Teaching Gratitude in a Season of “I’m Bored”
Alice Cooper said it best with “school’s out for the summer, school’s out forever, I’m bored to pieces.” The accuracy in his lyrics is chilling. At least in my home. “I’m bored” repeats itself like an echo throughout the rooms and stays there for two FULL months. We went from finishing homework, rushing to and from practice, picking out clothes, baths and bedtimes to too many minutes and “nothing to do” so quickly I got whiplash.
We go on one beach trip a year. Usually in July. With five kids, getting ready for a vacation makes me feel like I need a vacation and doing it more than once a year sounds like torture. Outside of that beach vacation, my kids are constantly searching for “something” to fill their time. Hearing, “I’m bored,” daily will make a mom approach crash-out mode quickly if not careful. As my kids get older, and I have kids at multiple life seasons, I have realized that when my kids say, “I’m bored,” they are really saying something else. They are begging to be entertained, confused about how to sit quietly, and struggling with not being instantly satisfied.
To be fair, I can empathize with them. My husband asks me all the time, “can’t you just sit down somewhere?” It is not unlike me to be watching a show with him and folding laundry at the same time. Or to be working on school work and sitting at the table eating dinner. The art of multitasking has become part of who I am. If it wasn’t for my constant minimized thinking tabs, our lives would fall apart. It has always been difficult for me to sit in silence. So when the moments come, and I have nothing to do, I look for something. Afraid of what the silence may express or share. Recently, I have found the small
slivers of silence comforting. In those moments, I am met with gratitude.
One day my son Axton was grounded from playing on his Playstation. He wasn’t happy about it and went to his room to sit in his disappointment. Slowly but surely he made his way downstairs and before I knew it he had been in the living room for hours with his three little siblings. The TV was off and all he had was pillows, a couch, and some blankets. I would walk through the living room and kitchen, as I did my cleaning, and just observed. He was building a fort for his younger siblings. Ever so often I would hear giggles. Sometimes fights. But not once did he ask me for help, entertainment, and not once did I hear, “I’m bored” from any of them. It was such a profound moment in my son Ayken’s life that he begged Axton for the next two consecutive days to play “fort” with him and despite Axton’s grounding only lasting one day, he didn’t touch his playstation for three.
My goal this summer break is to
stop rushing to fill the moments, and to just live them. I want to teach my kids how to use boredom to grow gratitude in the moments where nothing is happening, nothing is planned, and there is nowhere to be. Am I teaching my children to crave constant entertainment? Or am I modeling to them the power in noticing the beauty, peace, and creativity in the silence? You see, when one of my kids says, “I’m bored,” they could be leaning into the doorway of imagination, creativity, rest, perspective, and most importantly, gratitude.
I think boredom is sometimes seen as a summer thief. But what if we as parents changed the perception of boredom, and realized its potential of making room for something far greater. My kids that day found gratitude in the nothingness. They made a core memory with essentially nothing and it was free of hassle and money.
You see, sometimes the Lord does His quietest heart work in the moments we are tempted to fill. OP
WRITTEN BY ANDREA KING Andrea is an 8th grade Language Arts teacher and a mom of 5, who loves to spend her “spare time” fishing, worshiping or reading a good book.
GRACE IN THE CHAOS WITH ANDREA KING
The Gift of Wings
“There are two lasting bequests we can give our children: One is roots, the other is wings.”
Hodding Carter Jr. said that, and he was right.
When we raise our children here, we are giving them the gift of roots in a wonderful and nurturing community.
Owensboro is the perfect balance of “small town” and “big city.”
Every neighborhood has its own personality, and we are all better together. Our hometown offers a wide spectrum of performing and visual arts … outstanding educational experiences with dedicated teachers … beautiful parks and outdoor spaces … sports and science and music and libraries … friends and families and classmates and
teammates and neighbors, some who have been here for generations, others who have chosen to make this their home, all of whom make all of us better.
When I travel with my family, and especially with my grandchildren, I make it a priority to encourage them to look around and see, really see, the places we visit.
I ask them to think about what it might be like to live there, wherever “there” may be. But it is important for kids to realize that although Owensboro may be the center of their world, it is not the center of the world.
In some cities, people do a lot more walking than they do here. They ride subways and navigate metro systems. The sidewalks are crowded
with strangers flowing like fast-moving streams. The streets are packed with cars, taxis and buses, with an atmosphere of hustle-bustle that we can compare only to Highway 54 on Black Friday.
In other, more rural, places, a family may live miles away from anyone else. Travel to the next town is measured not in miles but in time, as in “That’s about an hour away.” Silence and solitude are the more intimate soundtracks of life in these vast, open spaces.
We stare in wonder at oceans and mountains and canyons and plains that natives take for granted, giving them hardly a glance as they go about their everyday lives.
Maybe the weather in other places is different. Harsh winters with lots of snow, or maybe no snow at all. Steady, relentless winds. A sun that feels different from the one we know. Clear nights with so many stars. Smog. Brilliant autumn foliage.
Sometimes the people look different. They wear clothes and fashions unlike those we usually see. They eat foods unfamiliar to us, sing songs we’ve never heard, have unique accents that make us really listen to understand what is being said.
But then, when we come back home, leaving behind the mountains or the ocean and all the things that make “there” different from “here,” it is important to see our own familiar people and places with fresh eyes, to listen to our classmates and friends and neighbors with new ears.
Because no matter where we go, no matter how far apart we may be, we all really live in the same place.
The way we look, the way we sound, the way we live, work, play or pray – those differences are never as big as the ways in which we are all alike.
When we allow our children to learn those lessons … that is the gift of wings. OP
REAL LIFE WITH LORA WIMSATT
WRITTEN BY LORA WIMSATT Lora is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.
by
MAKING IT
CRAFTS, RECIPES, AND ACTIVITIES FAMILIES CAN ENJOY TOGETHER
Photo
Jamie Plain
PASSPORT TO SPRINKLES
Two sweet traditions from around the world!
Some of the best souvenirs you can bring home from another country aren’t things you pack in a suitcase, they’re recipes! This summer, we’re taking a short trip to two beloved food traditions that kids absolutely lose their minds over.
The star of the show is Australian Fairy Bread, which is soft white bread spread with butter and blanketed in rainbow sprinkles called “hundreds and thousands”. It’s been the centerpiece of Aussie birthday parties and school celebrations since the 1920s. There’s just something wonderfully no-fuss about it: No baking, no special skills, just pure, colorful joy on a plate.
We’re also stopping in the Netherlands for a taste of hagelslag, the charming Dutch tradition of piling real chocolate sprinkles (this is important: it must be real chocolate) onto buttered bread for breakfast (yes, breakfast). Whether you’re road-tripping this summer or just dreaming of somewhere far away, these two recipes are a delicious reminder that the world is full of good ideas...and sometimes, the best ones involve sprinkles!
AUSTRALIAN FAIRY BREAD
The iconic Aussie party staple — soft white bread, butter, and a blizzard of rainbow sprinkles. Simple, joyful, and gone in seconds.
INGREDIENTS
›› 8 slices soft white bread
›› 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
›› 4 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles (hundreds and thousands)
STEPS
1. Butter the bread: Spread 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened evenly across one side of each slice of 8 slices soft white bread, going all the way to the edges.
2. Add the sprinkles: Pour 4 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles (hundreds and thousands) onto a plate or shallow dish. Press each buttered slice face-down into the sprinkles, or sprinkle generously over the top.
3. Slice and serve: Cut each slice diagonally into triangles and arrange on a platter. Serve immediately.
NOTES
Traditionally made with rainbow nonpareils (the tiny round sprinkles), not the longer jimmies — this is key to the authentic look! Best served fresh so the sprinkles don’t bleed into the butter.
DUTCH HAGELSLAG
The Netherlands’ most beloved breakfast tradition — buttered bread topped with a generous snowfall of real chocolate sprinkles. Simple, surprisingly satisfying, and a total kid favorite.
1. Butter the bread: Spread 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened generously over one side of each slice of 4 slices bread, covering all the way to the edges so the sprinkles have something to stick to.
2. Add the hagelslag: Spoon 4 tablespoons chooclate sprinkles evenly over the buttered surface of each slice. The Dutch are not shy about this step — be generous!
NOTES
Authentic Dutch hagelslag is made with real chocolate and has a noticeably richer flavor than standard decorating sprinkles. Look for it at international grocery stores or online. In a pinch, good-quality chocolate jimmies work as a substitute — just avoid the waxy, artificially flavored variety. OP
ARTICLE AND PHOTO BY
JAMIE PLAIN
Jamie Plain is a nationally published culinary and commercial photographer working as a full-time staff photographer for Black Box Media. She has a knack for making tasty food and pretty art. See more of her portfolio at jaastudios.com.
Watermelon
Collage Activity
MATERIALS:
›› Glue
›› Paper
›› Scissors
›› Red, Pink, and green tissue paper and/or magazine cutouts
›› Black paper/magazine cutouts (for seeds)
STEP 1:
Get a sheet of printer paper. Fold it in half, hamburger style.
STEP 2:
Once it’s folded in half, use scissors to cut out a semi-circle shape, with the two folds still attached. Like a card.
STEP 3:
Cut or tear out pieces of red or pink tissue paper or magazine pieces. Glue these to the inside portion of your paper.
STEP 4:
After the whole inside is covered in your red or pink paper scraps, use your black paper to cut out watermelon seeds - start gluing these to the inside to make your art look like a slice of watermelon.
STEP 5:
Cut or tear out pieces of green tissue or magazine scraps to the both outside pieces of your paper. Glue these down. Now you’re all done. Enjoy your colorful collage! OP
JUNE 24 - 27, 2026
I’M WITH HER PUNCH BROTHERS
MARTY STUART RICKY SKAGGS DEL McCOURY BAND THE BROTHERS COMATOSE SHADOWGRASS RHONDA VINCENT
THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS DAN TYMINSKI BAND
MICHAEL CLEVELAND & JASON CARTER DELLA MAE TREY HENSLEY
EAST NASH GRASS MASON VIA DAMN TALL BUILDINGS
THE OFTEN HERD MAGOO UNCLE B’s DAMNED OLE OPRY DOM FLEMONS & TRAVELING WILDFIRES FRANK SOLIVAN & DIRTY KITCHEN
MICHAEL DAVES & JACOB JOLLIFF THE TENNESSEE WARBLERS
THE CODY SISTERS LARRY CORDLE THE HAZEL PROJECT
THOMM JUTZ CHARM CITY JUNCTION RADIM ZENKL & ONDRA KOZÁK
KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS ALLSTARS
Photo by Jamie Plain
out & AbouT
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES FOR OWENSBORO FAMILIES
The 2026 Owensboro Parent Family Summer Guide
School’s out, the sunscreen is flowing, and Owensboro families are officially in summer mode. From splash pads and storytimes to fireworks, festivals, camps, concerts, and road trips, this guide is packed with ways to make the most of every sunny day.
Whether your family loves live music, outdoor adventures, creative camps, or low-cost fun close to home, consider this your go-to roadmap for summer 2026.
PRESENTED BY
☀ the BIG summer EVENTS
THE CAN’T-MISS FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS OF THE SEASON
These are the signature summer traditions families circle on the calendar every year — the events that bring the community together, create lasting memories, and officially make it feel like summer in Owensboro. From fireworks and festivals to live music and family fun, these experiences are worth planning around.
ROMP Festival
Where: Yellow Creek Park
When: June 24-27
This June, ROMP Festival will return to Owensboro for its 23rd year of music and memorable fun! Held at Yellow Creek Park, the festival is nestled in the rolling hills of the 150 acre spacious grounds. Most notable to the park are the serene surroundings, complete with a small lake for fishing, beautiful nature trails, and a rustic pioneer village.
Aside from the very best in bluegrass music ROMP offers a plethora of other activities for the whole family. Families can enjoy free events daily throughout the duration of the festival. Unique interactive musical workshops, local food trucks, craft vendors, and Kentucky Proud products highlight the three day long event.
ROMP offers free admission to kids 12 and under and is a family-friendly festival, so there is much to see and explore. The park’s splash pad is always a hit during the warm summer temps, and kids can also investigate the inclusive “ROMP Kids Zone.”
The “Kid Zone” is equipped with daily entertainment and fun for children of all ages! This year the area will feature a live banjo demo and workshop where children are invited to “build their own'' afterwards. Children’s yoga is set to fully engage youngsters in movement and fun! There will also be harmonica and kazoo lessons available from Art the Dude complete with a free instrument. This year a children’s songwriting workshop will also be offered, led by Rebecca Samples
David, from “The Children’s Melody Garden.”
Kids Zone will be cleverly disguised as “Hoot Owl Holler,” celebrating the culture and pride of Kentucky, providing crafts like “My Old Kentucky Home, Mosaics” and “Groovy Paper” lanterns. In addition to these fun activities festival friends can also paint, create, and listen to an interactive story about the father of bluegrass Bill Monore, receiving a free train whistle to make a high lonesome sound!
ROMP is the perfect time to camp with your family since the festival offers family-friendly campsites with quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Kids Zone is open ThursdaySaturday 8 a.m to 2 p.m.
Scan the QR code for a full schedule of ROMP Kids Zone activities.
The Daviess County Lions Club Fair is back and bigger than ever, continuing a summer tradition that has been bringing families together for more than 50 years. This year’s fair features live music, exciting carnival rides, delicious fair food and food trucks, a huge petting zoo, pony rides, and crowd favorites like TNT Truck & Tractor Pulls, Full Throttle Monster Trucks, motocross, Garden
Photo by Alex Morgan Imaging
& Mini Tractor Pulls, and Kids & Adults
Pedal Tractor Pulls.
Families can also enjoy laser tag, craft vendors, agricultural exhibits, 4-H and FFA displays, livestock shows, and plenty of classic fair fun throughout the week.
Bring the whole family and experience one of the area’s most beloved summer traditions.
Scan the QR code for a full Fair schedule.
PorchFest OBKY
Where: Griffith Avenue
When: June 13 • Cost: Free
This unique neighborhood music festival transforms front porches into concert stages, creating an all-day summer block party atmosphere. Families can stroll Griffith Avenue, discover local musicians, enjoy food trucks, dance in the street, and soak in one of Owensboro’s most community-centered events.
Scan the QR code for a full PorchFest lineup.
Lavender Fest
Where: Trunnell’s Farm Market
When: Select Dates June 12-28
Cost: Admission starts at $17.99 online. Families can stroll through blooming lavender fields while enjoying baby animals, gem mining, bunny encounters, parakeets, and optional u-pick lavender experiences.
Scan the QR code for a full Lavender Fest schedule.
Rubber Duck Days
Where: Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
Santa Claus, Indiana
When: June 8-21
Waddle on over for some silly summer fun during Rubber Duck Days at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari. This family-friendly festival features the World’s Largest Rubber Duck towering more than 60 feet above Splashin’ Safari — plus her adorable 10-foot-tall sidekick, Timmy. Families can snap photos, enjoy themed activities, and experience all the rides, water attractions, and summer fun Holiday World is known for while celebrating the park’s quacky side. You won’t BILLieve your eyes!
Scan the QR code for a full Rubber Duck Days schedule.
Summer is all about sunshine, family adventures, festivals, vacations, and memory-making moments — but for many kids, it can also mean seasonal allergies, asthma flare-ups, bug bites, and outdoor triggers. That’s why this special summer guide is proudly presented by Allergy & Asthma Specialists, PSC, helping families stay healthy while enjoying everything Owensboro has to offer this season.
As you explore this guide, keep an eye out for our Summer Health Check tips located throughout the pages. These quick, travel-inspired wellness reminders will help parents navigate summer safely with practical advice on allergies, asthma, summer safety and more — so your family can focus on making memories all summer long.
Photo by Ryan Richardson
Dust Bowl
Where: Kendall-Perkins Park
When: July 17-25 • Cost: Free
More than just a basketball tournament, the Dust Bowl has become a summertime tradition and gathering place for the community. Nightly games, music, vendors, concessions, and a festival-like atmosphere make it a favorite event for families, teens, and longtime Owensboro residents alike.
Scan the QR code for a full Dust Bowl schedule.
Firefly Festival: Know & Glow
Where: Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
When: June 2 • Cost: Free Explore the gardens after dark while learning about fireflies through glowing activities and educational experiences perfect for natureloving families.
Dazzling Daylilies
Festival
Where: Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
When: June 20
Cost: All Garden Members and all kids under 18 are free, All other adults are $5 each Celebrate colorful summer blooms with family-friendly garden activities and seasonal beauty.
Vette Lovers Car Show
Where: Yellow Creek Park
When: July 18 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Families can check out classic and modern vehicles while enjoying food vendors, giveaways, and awards throughout the day.
Gala Day
Hosted by: Dugan Best Neighborhood Alliance
Where: Dugan Best Park
When: July 11 • Cost: Free
A neighborhood celebration featuring music, free food, inflatables, giveaways, bike prizes, and family activities.
Juneteenth on the Ohio River
Where: English Park • When: June 20
Cost: Free
Celebrate culture, music, food, and community with live entertainment, vendors, exhibits, and family activities along the riverfront.
Longest Day of Play
Hosted by: Audubon Bon Harbor
Neighborhood Alliance
Where: Thompson Berry Park
When: June 20 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. • Cost: Free Families can enjoy inflatables, mini golf, balloon artists, games, food, and community booths during this fun-filled afternoon celebration.
Photo by Owensboro Times
Photo from Owensboro Neighborhood Alliance Facebook page
All-American Fourth of July Celebration
Where: Downtown Owensboro Riverfront
When: July 3-4 • Cost: Free Owensboro’s biggest Independence Day celebration features live music, inflatables, games, food vendors, a downtown drone show, and one of the region’s largest fireworks displays. Families can spend the entire evening along the riverfront enjoying entertainment and patriotic fun.
Don’t miss 4th Fest at the Owensboro Convention Center, offering inflatables, games, and other family-friendly attractions with free admission.
Fireworks will launch from multiple locations across Owensboro, including Downtown Riverfront, Southern Little League Fields, Owensboro Sportscenter/ Moreland Park, Owensboro Warehouse Leasing (former GE plant).
German American
250 Fireworks
Festival
Where: Yellow Creek Park
When: July 3 from 5-9 p.m. • Cost: Free
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with live music, foam parties, food trucks, family activities, and fireworks. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of summer fun under the stars.
Owensboro Multicultural Festival
Where: First Presbyterian Church Lawn
When: August 15 • Cost: Free Celebrate the cultures that make Owensboro unique through international food, music, art,
performances, and community connection.
Take a Kid Fishing
Where: Panther Creek Park
When: June 6 • Cost: Free Kids can fish during Kentucky’s Free Fishing Weekend while enjoying lunch, prizes, and outdoor fun. Limited fishing supplies are available.
Take a Kid Outdoors
Where: Mattingly Target Shooting Range When: August 22 • Cost: Free Young outdoor enthusiasts can safely explore archery, BB guns, shotgun stations, wildlife education, and outdoor skills with trained supervision.
Monarch Day
Where: Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
When: August 29 • Cost: Free
Celebrate the beauty and importance of monarch butterflies during this family-friendly day at the garden. Families can enjoy educational activities, nature exploration, butterfly-themed crafts, and interactive experiences focused on pollinators and the monarch migration journey.
Photo from Daviess County Fiscal Court Facebook page
Photo from Owensboro Multicultural Festival Facebook page
Photo by AP Imagery
�� WEEKLY family FUN
THE EVENTS YOU CAN BUILD YOUR SUMMER AROUND
DCPL Tales Around Town Storytime
When: Fridays at 10:30 a.m. • Cost: Free The Daviess County Public Library takes storytime on the road this summer, giving families a chance to enjoy stories and explore local attractions for free.
Schedule Includes:
May 29 — Owensboro Fire Department Training Center
June 5 — Reid’s Orchard
June 12 — Panther Creek Park
June 26 — Owensboro Museum of Fine Art
July 10 — Cecil Farms
July 17 — Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
July 24 — Owensboro Museum of Science & History
July 31 — Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum
Families attending the official library program also receive complimentary admission to participating attractions.
Midweek at the Malco Family Films
Where: Owensboro Cinema Grill
When: Wednesdays June 3-July 29 at 10 a.m.
Families can enjoy classic animated favorites and newer family hits all summer long for just $3 per ticket plus tax.
2026 Movie Schedule:
June 3 — Boss Baby
June 10 — Captain
Underpants: The First Epic Movie
June 17 — Dog Man
June 24 — Over the Hedge
July 1 — Trolls: World Tour
July 8 — The Bad Guys
July 15 — Kung Fu Panda
July 22 — The Bad Guys 2
July 29 — The Croods
Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market
Where: 1205 Triplett St, Owensboro
When: Tuesdays & Saturdays from 8 a.m.Noon; Thursdays from 4-7 p.m.
Looking for a fun and easy family outing this summer? Add the Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market to your family’s summer road map. More than just a place to shop for fresh produce, the market has become a weekly gathering spot where families can enjoy live music, hands-on kids activities, local food, and community events all summer long.
Children can participate in POP Club activities, 4-H experiences, library storytimes, gardening workshops, and seasonal celebrations while parents browse fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, flowers, meats, jams, and handmade local products.
Photo from Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market Facebook page
FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Where: Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market • 1205 Triplett St.
When: June 20 from 5-7 p.m.
One of the market’s biggest summer events, the Food Truck Festival features local food trucks, live music from Gavin Vollman, and a fun evening atmosphere perfect for families looking to kick off Father’s Day weekend together. It’s the perfect summer “pit stop” for families looking to slow down, support local businesses, and spend time together in a relaxed, familyfriendly atmosphere.
4-H & Extension Fun
Where: Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market • 1205 Triplett St.
Families can add hands-on learning and farm fun to their summer visits at the Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market thanks to special programming from the Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service, 4-H, and the Green River Area Extension Master Gardener Association.
4-H AT THE MARKET
Select Saturdays at the Kids’ Activity Center
Kids can explore agriculture, food, and science through fun themed activities throughout the season.
Featured Summer Activities:
June 13 — National Dairy Month: Make Butter
June 27 — National Dairy Month: Where Does My Milk Come From?
July 18 — National Corn Month: Corn Pit
August 1 — Parts of a Sunflower with Trail Mix
August 15 — Bugs in the Stream
September 19 — Erupting Pumpkins
POP CLUB: POWER OF PRODUCE
Tuesdays & Thursdays in June and July
The POP Club encourages healthy eating and local agriculture through weekly hands-on activities and food samples related to seasonal produce. Participants ages 3 and up receive $5 in market bucks to spend on fresh produce, meat, dairy, eggs, honey, and more after participating.
Families can sign up at the POP Club cart during the first week of June or July.
MASTER GARDENER YOUTH PROJECTS
Select Saturdays
Kids can also participate in creative nature-themed projects hosted by the Green River Area Extension Master Gardener Association.
Featured Activities:
June 27 — Nature Suncatchers
July 25 — Potato Butterfly Printing August 29 — Leaf Rubbings
LIVE on the Banks
Where: Smothers Park Riverfront
When: Saturdays from 7-9 p.m. • Cost: Free This free concert series transforms the riverfront into a lively summer hangout with local bands, bluegrass, rock, jazz, and community favorites performing all season long.
Scan the QR code for the Live on the Banks summer lineup.
Families can spend the afternoon enjoying food trucks, crafts, cornhole, board games, video games, TVs, and
kid-friendly activities in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Games on the River
Where: Smothers Park Riverfront
When: Sundays through August 30 from Noon-8 p.m. • Cost: Free
Looking for an easy, low-key family outing? Games on the River turns the lawn beside the Shelton Memorial at Smothers Park into a giant outdoor game room every Sunday throughout the summer. Families can challenge each other to oversized versions of favorite games like Connect Four, Jenga, checkers, cornhole, and more while enjoying the riverfront atmosphere. It’s the perfect addition to a downtown afternoon — pair it with lunch, spray park time, or an evening concert for a full day of family fun.
Summer bucket
liSt
✅ Watch fireworks downtown
✅ Go to a $3 movie
✅ Attend a summer festival
✅ Visit a splash pad
✅ Read with DCPL
✅ Try a new food truck
✅ Dance at PorchFest
✅ Camp at ROMP
✅ Explore a museum
✅ Take a family road trip
✅ Go swimming
✅ Watch live music
✅ Ride the Ferris Wheel at the Fair
✅ Visit the Botanical Garden
�� SPLASH into SUM meR
WATER FUN, POOLS & WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT
Combest & Cravens Pools
Owensboro’s city pools are a summer staple for families looking to cool off and enjoy themed activities all season long. From discounted admission days to special celebrations and family swim events, there’s something happening at the pools throughout the summer.
PADDLE & PLAY
OPEN SWIM
Where: Cravens Pool
When: June 9-July 30; Tuesdays & Thursdays from 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: $8 admission includes one parent and up to two children. Additional children are $3 each.
Little swimmers ages 0-6 can enjoy the pool alongside a
parent or guardian during this special morning swim time designed just for young children. It’s a fun and relaxed way for families to cool off, build water confidence, and enjoy summer mornings together.
WATER SAFETY DAY
Where: Combest Pool
When: June 15 from 9-11 a.m. Cost: Free Families can enjoy free swim lessons, water safety demonstrations, giveaways, information booths, and supervised swim time while learning important water safety skills from city lifeguards and the Marlins Swim Team.
NATIONAL FLIP FLOP DAY
Where: Combest & Cravens Pools
Photo from Owensboro Parks & Recreation Facebook page
When: June 19 • Cost: $4 admission. Wear flip flops to the pool and receive discounted admission.
LET’S FLAMINGLE PADDLE & PLAY
Where: Cravens Pool
When: June 11 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: $8 admission includes one parent and up to two children. Additional children are $3 each. A flamingo-themed morning featuring games, prizes, pink lemonade, themed treats, and water play for younger children and caregivers.
UNDER THE SEA ADVENTURE PADDLE & PLAY
Where: Cravens Pool • When: July 9 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: $8 includes one parent and up to two children. Families can enjoy ocean-themed scavenger hunts, decorations, and special sea-themed treats during this preschoolfriendly swim event.
WAY-BACK WEDNESDAY
Where: Combest Pool • When: July 8 & 22
Cost: $2.50 admission
Travel back in time with 2010-style admission pricing.
BUY-ONE-GET-ONE MONDAYS
Where: Combest Pool • When: July 6, 13, 20 & 27 Families can take advantage of special BOGO admission deals throughout July.
NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY
Where: Combest & Cravens Pools • When: July 19 Celebrate summer with special buy-oneget-one ice cream treats during swim sessions.
PIRATE TREASURE QUEST PADDLE & PLAY
Where: Cravens Pool
When: July 23 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: $8 admission includes one parent and up to two children. Additional children are $3 each. Kids can search for hidden gold coins, play pirate-themed games, and receive inflatable pirate sword giveaways while supplies last.
NATIONAL PARENTS DAY
Where: Combest & Cravens Pools
When: July 26 • Cost: Free for parents Parents receive free admission in appreciation for all they do.
Spray park Tour
Cool Off Around Owensboro
Looking for free ways to beat the summer heat? Add these local spray parks to your family’s summer bucket list:
Smothers Park
Legion Park
Kendall-Perkins Park
Yellow Creek Park
Panther Creek Park
Horse Fork Creek Park
�� Creative KIDS
CAMPS, CLASSES & HANDS-ON FUN
Arts Teach Kids Summer Camps
Where: RiverPark Center
These hands-on arts camps help kids build confidence, creativity, and friendships through theater, music, dance, storytelling, and performance experiences.
RISING STARS CAMP
When: June 8-12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: $165 (snacks and lunch included)
Young performers ages 6-9 explore acting, music, dance, theater crafts, and games inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
SUMMER THEATRE ACADEMY
When: June 15-26 from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $340 (snacks and lunch included)
Students ages 10-18 dive into acting, music, dance, stage combat, and production design while preparing a performance of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.
IMAGINATION CAMP
When: July 27-31 from 9 a.m.-Noon
Cost: $80
Children ages 7-10 explore books and character themes through storytelling, crafts, props, and costume-making activities.
Owensboro Museum of Fine Art Summer Art Camp
Where: Owensboro Museum of Fine Art
When: June 8-12 • Cost: Free
This free summer camp introduces children ages 6-15 to Kentucky history and culture through hands-on art projects taught by professional artists and educators. Daily themes include pop artinspired flag art, Creative map making, Kentucky watercolor projects, quilt square storytelling, and mixed media artwork. Sessions are offered from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Johnson’s Dance Studio Summer Programs
Where: Johnson’s Dance Studio Summer dance programming includes classes, workshops, and themed camps for dancers of all ages and experience levels.
TRAINING THE STARS OF TOMORROW
When: June 15-July 15 • Cost: $155
Students explore ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, and creative movement during a five-week summer session.
INTENSIVE WORKSHOPS WITH CONTEMPORARY TECHNIQUES
When: June 15-July 15
Cost: $125 weekly or $450 for all five weeks Intermediate and advanced dancers can train with professional instructors from across the country.
AERIAL DANCE CAMP
When: June 29-July 2 • Cost: $100
Kids learn aerial dance skills using suspended fabrics.
Ages 6-9: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Ages 10 & up: 1:30-3 p.m.
Photo from Owensboro Museum of Fine Art Facebook page
DANCING THROUGH OZ: WIGGLE, GIGGLE & PRETEND
When: June 22-26 and July 6-10 from 9 a.m.-Noon
Cost: $125
A Wicked-inspired camp featuring dance, dress-up, creative play, snacks, and performances.
K-POP STARS RHYTHM & GROOVE CAMP
When: July 13-15 from 1:30-3 p.m.
Cost: $75
A high-energy camp featuring choreography, rhythm games, and dance combinations.
IN MY SPARKLE ERA DANCE & NUTRITION CAMP
When: July 14 from 10 a.m.-Noon • Cost: $25
A Swiftie-inspired camp combining dance, healthy snacks, and themed activities.
SUMMER CHECK HEALTH
Itsy bitsy teeny weeny yellow…bees
– The majority of insect stings in the United States come from wasps,
yellow jackets, hornets and bees. In southern portions of the US, the red or black imported fire ant has become a significant health hazard, and may be the number one agent of insect stings. It’s estimated that potentially life-threatening allergic reactions to insect venom occur in .4 percent to .8 percent of children and 3 percent of adults. Avoidance of insect stings is the first line of defense, so:
›› Don’t walk barefoot in the grass, where stinging insects forage.
›› Don’t drink from open soft drink
Joy’s Cooking Classes Summer Little Chef Camp
Where: 3811 Highway 54 Unit 102
Kids can build kitchen confidence while learning to prepare homemade meals and desserts in this interactive cooking camp.
JUNE CAMP
When: June 23-25 at 5:30 p.m.
Menu highlights include boneless wings, tacos, queso, homemade pasta, and crème brûlée.
JULY CAMP
When: July 21-23 at 5:30 p.m.
Campers will make chicken tenders, pork chops, homemade pasta, and ice cream sundaes.
Theatre Workshop of Owensboro
DISNEY’S HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL
Where: The Empress Theater
When: June 25-28
Cost: Adults $21 | Ages 18 & under $11. Theatre Workshop of Owensboro brings the Disney Channel favorite to life with singing, dancing, and upbeat family entertainment.
cans as stinging insects are attracted to them.
›› Keep food covered when eating outdoors.
›› Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, socks, shoes and work gloves when working outdoors.
If symptoms of a severe allergic reaction occur from an insect sting, epinephrine should be injected.
Once epinephrine is used, 911 should be called and follow up in a hospital emergency room for further treatment and observation.
Photo from Johnson’s Dance Studio Facebook page
�� FOR little EXPLORERS
PERFECT FOR PRESCHOOLERS & YOUNGER KIDS
Little Explorers’ Play Cafe
Where: 410 Southtown Blvd.
Little Explorers’ Play Cafe is an indoor play space designed especially for younger children, offering imaginative play areas, climbing spaces, sensory activities, and parent-friendly seating. Throughout the summer, the cafe hosts themed family events and daily activities that encourage creativity, social play, and hands-on learning.
WEEKLY SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Make-It Mondays — Free craft projects
Wacky Wednesdays — Interactive kids activities
Throwback Thursdays — Discounted admission days Freeze Pop Fridays — Free freeze pops for children
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN STORYTIME EVENTS
Cost: $15 and includes all-day play. Children enjoy a themed storytime before creating a snack inspired by the featured book.
A House for Hermit Crab June 24 | 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Pete the Cat Screams for Ice Cream July 13 | 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Owensboro Museum of Science & History Family Programs
Where: 122 E. 2nd St.
The Owensboro Museum of Science & History offers weekly educational programs and special camps designed to make science, movement, and sensory play fun for younger learners.
SENSORY MORNINGS
When: First Tuesday of every month from 9-10 a.m.
Cost: Free with museum admission. Families who prefer quieter environments can enjoy early museum access with reduced stimulation, sensory activity stations, and a calmer atmosphere.
WONDER WEDNESDAY
When: Every Wednesday Sessions at 11 a.m. & Noon
Cost: Free with museum admission. Each session includes themed
stories, crafts, hands-on activities, and interactive science experiments that encourage curiosity and exploration.
TINY TUSKS YOGA
When: Every Friday at 10 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.
Cost: Free with museum admission. This beginner-friendly yoga program introduces children to movement, mindfulness, and calming activities in a relaxed environment.
BEAUTIFUL BUGS CAMP
When: June 16 from 10 a.m.-Noon
Cost: $10, $7.50 for museum members. Children ages 5-11 can explore insects and discover how bugs move, eat, build, and help the environment through closeup science investigations and activities.
WONDERFUL WATER CAMP
When: June 18 from 10 a.m.-Noon
Cost: $10, $7.50 for museum members. Designed for ages 11-14, this interactive science camp explores how water shapes the world through experiments and handson learning activities in partnership
Photo provided by Owensboro Museum of Science & History
Photo by Ashley Wedding
with Project WET and Kentucky Discoveries of Water.
COLUMBO’S 60TH BIRTHDAY PARTY
When: July 11 from 6-8 p.m.
Cost: $7.50 per child; $5 for members. Celebrate the museum’s beloved mammoth mascot with cupcakes, dancing, party favors, disco fun, and family photo opportunities.
DCPL Summer Reading Program: A Galaxy of Stories
Where: Daviess County Public Library
When: Through July 31
The Daviess County Public Library’s summer reading program encourages kids and families to keep reading all summer long through prizes, activities, performances, crafts, and themed learning experiences. Children earn entries into weekly and grand prize drawings by logging reading hours and attending library programs. Registration prizes are available for all children who sign up, and readers who complete milestone goals receive additional rewards. Families can register through the Beanstack app or online.
Featured DCPL Summer Events
Cost: All DCPL programs are free
HOLE IN FUN WITH HOLES2GO
When: June 3 from 2-5 p.m.
Families can enjoy miniature golf, bubbles, and chalk activities in the library garden.
BALLOON STAMPING SOLAR SYSTEM
When: June 10 at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. or 4 p.m.
Children create galaxy-inspired artwork using balloons and paint.
DISNEY KARAOKE PARTY
When: June 17 from 2-4 p.m.
Sing favorite Disney songs, complete crafts, and meet special character guests.
EDIBLE EARTH
When: June 24 at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. Kids create edible models of Earth while learning about the planet’s layers.
ADOPT AN ALIEN
When: July 1 at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. Create a mini alien pet in a jar complete with a passport and themed accessories.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT CAMPOUT
When: July 8 at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. Enjoy campfire songs, camping-themed stories, and flashlight projector crafts.
TOY STORY PARTY
When: July 15 from 2-4 p.m. Families can make Forky crafts, create potato heads, and meet Toy Story characters.
ALIEN BATH BOMBS
When: July 22 at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. Children create bath bombs with surprise alien toys hidden inside.
UNEARTH A PLANET WITH MR. BOND & THE SCIENCE GUYS
When: July 29 from 2 or 4 p.m. Interactive science demonstrations help families explore Earth, space, and volcanic eruptions.
END OF SUMMER FOAM PARTY
When: July 31 from 2-4 p.m. Celebrate the end of summer reading with Daniel’s Foam Party and prize pickups.
SUMMER CHECK HEALTH
PRESENTED
BY ALLERGY & ASTHMA SPECIALISTS, PSC
No hazy, lazy days of summer for you – Warm weather means moving workouts outside. But for those with seasonal allergies, exercising outdoors can be bothersome. Some recommendations for outdoor exercise include:
›› Exercise outdoors when pollen counts are at their lowest – pre-dawn or in the late afternoon or evening.
›› Take a shower, wash your hair and change your clothing after exercise. Pollen can stick to your hair, clothing and shoes, causing you to bring pollen indoors.
›› Avoid running through the grass. This can stir pollen into the air you breathe.
›› Keep an eye on the weather. Wind and rain can affect pollen counts.
›› Listen to your body.
Asthma can be a symptom of an allergy. If you are having trouble breathing, you should see your allergist.
Photo provided by Daviess County Public Library
�� STAY active THIS summer
SPORTS, SWIMMING & SKILL-BUILDING FUN
Owensboro Parks & Recreation Summer Programs
Owensboro Parks & Recreation offers a variety of summer programs that help kids stay active, build confidence, and learn new skills all season long. From ice skating and hockey to swim lessons and golf camps, these programs give children opportunities to stay engaged while having fun.
ICE SKATING CLASSES
Where: The Edge Ice Center
The Edge Ice Center’s skating lesson program follows Ice Skating Industry (ISI) guidelines and offers instruction for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced skaters. Programs include recreational skating, figure skating, hockey, synchro, and ice dance.
Skate rental and instruction are included in registration fees.
Session Dates:
June Session: June 1-23
July Session: July 6-28
Featured Programs & Costs:
Tots 1-2, Tots 3-4 & Pre-Alpha — $49
Alpha, Beta, Gamma & Delta — $47
Freestyle 1+ — $56
Synchro — $29
Ice Dance — $29
Learn to Play
Hockey — $55
LEARNTO-SWIM CLASSES
Where: Combest Pool Cost: $70
These American Red Cross-guided swim lessons are designed for beginners through experienced swimmers ages 5 and older. Classes include instruction, free swim time, two Edge Ice
Center passes, and free Saturday swimming at Combest Pool. Semiprivate lessons are also available.
Session Dates:
June 8-12, June 22-26, July 6-10
Times: 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. sessions available
PRE-SCHOOL AQUATICS
Where: Cravens Pool • Cost: $70
Designed for children ages 3-4, this playful water program helps young swimmers build confidence and basic water skills in a fun environment. Morning sessions include free admission to Thursday Paddle & Play Open Swim events, while evening classes include access to night swim sessions.
Session Dates:
June 1, 8, 15 & 22, July 6, 13, 20 & 27
Times:
Morning Session: 9:30 a.m.
Evening Session: 5 p.m.
Photos from Owensboro Parks & Recreation Facebook page
JUNIOR GOLF PROGRAMS
Ben Hawes Golf Course
Young golfers can sharpen their skills this summer through instructional camps and Operation 36 Golf classes designed for ages 4-18. Programs focus on golf fundamentals, confidence-building, and on-course learning experiences.
OPERATION
36 GOLF INSTRUCTION
When: June 24-August 12 • Cost: $225
A seven-week instructional series with small class sizes and scholarship opportunities available.
JUNIOR GOLF CAMP
When: June 8-12
Recreation Month with a full day of free family fun around Owensboro. Free Activities Include:
SUMMER CHECK HEALTH
PRESENTED BY ALLERGY & ASTHMA SPECIALISTS, PSC
• Cost: $65 per child. Ages 6-8: 8:30-9:45 a.m.
Ages 9 & Up: 10:15-11:30 a.m.
PARKS & REC FREE DAY
When: July 17
Celebrate National Parks &
›› Free public ice skating at The Edge Ice Center from 7-9:30 p.m.
›› Free public swim admission at Combest Pool & Cravens Pool from Noon-4:30 p.m.
›› Free greens fees at Ben Hawes Par-3 Golf Course
�� Sweet Treat Stops at SmotheRS Park
National Donut Day
Where: Smothers Park • When: June 5 from 9-11 a.m.
Start the morning with a sweet treat on the riverfront. Families who purchase a hot or cold drink from concessions will receive a free donut while supplies last.
National Ice Cream Day
Where: Smothers Park • When: July 19 from 2-4 p.m.
Cool off with a summer favorite during this family-friendly celebration featuring buy-one-get-one-free ice cream specials at Smothers Park concessions.
You love fresh fruit, but does it love you? – Summer means the bounty of farmers markets. If you suffer from hay fever and have had an itchy mouth or scratchy throat after eating certain raw fruits or vegetables, you may have oral allergy syndrome. Oral allergy syndrome is caused by cross-reacting allergens found in both pollen and some raw fruits and vegetables. Symptoms of oral allergy syndrome include itchy mouth, scratchy throat, or swelling of the lips, mouth or tongue. Because the symptoms often subside quickly once the fresh fruit or raw vegetable is swallowed or removed from the mouth, treatment is not usually necessary. Once fruit is cooked, the symptoms typically go away as well.
�� TRAVELING the world without LEAVING OBKY
A FAMILY PASSPORT ADVENTURE AROUND OWENSBORO
Who says you need a plane ticket to explore the world? Families can experience international cultures, foods, art, music, and traditions right here in Owensboro through local restaurants, museums, businesses, and attractions. Create your own “passport adventure” this summer by visiting these destinations around town and discovering a little piece of the world without ever leaving OBKY.
Japan
WESTERN KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDEN
Families can stroll through the Takahashi Japanese Memorial Garden, a peaceful Japaneseinspired space featuring traditional design elements and serene landscaping tucked inside the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden.
Germany
OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF FINE ART
The museum’s stunning stained glass gallery features 16 late-19th century German stained glass windows created by internationally recognized German artist Emil Frei. Originally installed in St. Joseph Catholic Church, the windows are now displayed in towering light installations inside the museum.
Jamaica
JAMAICAN YARD VIBES
Experience the flavors of Jamaica through authentic Caribbean dishes served from both their restaurant
and food truck. Families can enjoy jerk chicken, rice dishes, island flavors, and vibrant Jamaican culture throughout the summer.
Mexico
REAL HACIENDA, TAQUERIA LA BENDICIÓN DE DIOS, OSCAR’S, PAPA GRANDE, EL CAMINO REAL
Owensboro’s Mexican restaurants offer families opportunities to experience authentic flavors, traditions, and dishes inspired by regions throughout Mexico. From tacos and street corn to handmade specialties, there are plenty of ways to explore Mexican culture locally.
West Africa
BLUEGRASS MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM
Did you know the banjo traces its roots back to West Africa? Families visiting the Bluegrass Museum can learn how African musical traditions helped shape bluegrass music and American culture.
Vietnam
I LOVE PHO
Introduce kids to Vietnamese cuisine with comforting bowls of pho, spring rolls, noodle dishes, and flavorful traditional recipes.
Russia
OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMERS’ MARKET
One of the market’s beloved flower vendors shares her Russian heritage each week through beautiful floral displays and conversations with market visitors.
Italy
MAGNOLIA MERCANTILE
Cool off with authentic gelato and Italian-inspired treats while enjoying one of downtown Owensboro’s sweetest summer stops.
Poland
WILLOW & PINE MARKET
Browse one of the area’s largest selections of colorful Polish pottery and learn about the handcrafted
Photo by Jamie Plain
ceramic traditions that originated in Poland.
Philippines
MANGKOK CUISINE
Families can explore Filipino comfort food through flavorful dishes that blend sweet, savory, and traditional island-inspired recipes.
International
JOLIE CARRE –WORLD CAFÉ
Jolie Carre brings globally inspired comfort food flavors together in one place, creating a menu influenced by cultures and cuisines from around the world.
Thailand
THAI FOOD OWENSBORO
Enjoy flavorful curries, noodle dishes, stir fry, and Thai-inspired favorites while introducing kids to new spices and international flavors.
India
FLAVORS OF INDIA
FOOD TRUCK
Families can explore Indian cuisine through dishes filled with bold spices, curries, naan bread, and flavorful street-food favorites.
Greece & the Mediterranean
FAMOUS BISTRO
Experience Mediterranean flavors through gyros, hummus, pita, rice bowls, and traditional Greek-inspired dishes.
Mongolia
YUMMY BOWL
Families can build custom stirfry bowls inspired by Mongolian barbecue traditions while choosing their own meats, vegetables, sauces, and noodles.
Europe
NIKO’S BAKERY
This beloved bakery offers Europeaninspired pastries, desserts, breads, and sweet treats perfect for a summer family outing.
Don’t Miss:
OWENSBORO
MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL
August 15
Take your “passport adventure” even further at the Owensboro Multicultural Festival, where families can experience food, music, performances, art, and traditions from cultures around the world all in one place. OP
Fun Family Idea
Create a pretend passport for your kids and let them collect “stamps” at each international stop around Owensboro this summer.
WEEKEND WORTH THE DRIVE
Family-Friendly Getaways Just a Few Hours from Owensboro
Photos provided by Owensboro Parent Staff
Sometimes the best summer memories come from piling into the car, grabbing snacks for the road, and heading somewhere new for a long weekend adventure. The good news? Families don’t have to travel far to find beaches, big-city attractions, outdoor adventures, unique restaurants, and unforgettable experiences. We asked Owensboro Parent staff members to share some of their favorite drivable family getaways — the places they’ve personally explored, loved, and would recommend to other families looking for an easy summer escape.
These trips are all close enough for a weekend but exciting enough to feel like a true vacation.
STAFF TRAVEL PICK
Nashville, Tennessee CHRISTY’S OFFBEAT FAMILY GUIDE TO MUSIC CITY
Nashville may be best known for country music, honky tonks, and Broadway nightlife — but there’s another side of Music City families will love discovering. Owensboro Parent staff member Christy recommends skipping the obvious tourist stops and exploring some of Nashville’s more creative, quirky, and offbeat attractions that make for a memorable family getaway.
Athena Parthenos at The Parthenon Centennial Park
One of Nashville’s most unexpected attractions is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon — complete with the towering Athena Parthenos statue inside. Standing nearly 42 feet tall, the massive gold-colored sculpture feels larger than life and gives kids a chance to experience a little mythology and history right in the middle of Tennessee. Fun fact: The iconic scene in Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief where the heroes fight the Hydra was filmed here!
The Stitching Bell
For crafty families, The Stitching Bell offers a colorful and creative stop filled with needlepoint canvases, embroidery supplies, and inspiration for handmade
projects. It’s a fun hidden gem for parents and kids who love art, sewing, or creative hobbies.
Fairytales Bookstore
Known as Nashville’s “tiniest mightiest children’s bookstore,” Fairytales is packed with charm, imagination, and carefully curated children’s books. Young readers can browse cozy shelves, discover new favorite stories, and enjoy one of the city’s sweetest little shops.
Adventure Science Center
Need to burn some energy? The Adventure Science Center is filled with hands-on exhibits, STEM activities, climbing structures, and interactive experiences that make learning feel like play. It’s an easy win for curious kids of all ages.
Goo Goo Cluster Class
Trade the concert tickets for chocolate during a Goo Goo Cluster candy-making class. Families can create their own versions of Nashville’s iconic candy while learning a little local history — and enjoying plenty of sweet samples along the way.
STAFF TRAVEL PICK
Lake Michigan
ASHLEY’S FAMILY GUIDE TO BEACH TOWNS, SAND DUNES & A CHICAGO ADVENTURE
When most people think of a Midwest summer vacation, they may not immediately picture beaches, dune rides, waterfront towns, and big-city adventures — but Owensboro Parent staff member Ashley says a Lake Michigan getaway checks every box for families looking for a memorable long weekend.
St. Joseph, Michigan
This charming Lake Michigan beach town offers plenty of family-friendly fun packed into a walkable waterfront area. Ashley recommends grabbing pizza at Silver Beach Pizza, letting kids cool off at the Whirlpool Compass Fountain, and riding the Silver Beach Carousel for a classic summer memory by the water.
Saugatuck Dune Rides
For adventurous families, the Saugatuck Dune Rides are a must. Guided rides take visitors through towering sand dunes, wooded trails, and scenic overlooks while sharing the area’s fascinating history.
Lake Arvesta Farms
Part water park, part outdoor adventure destination, Lake Arvesta
Farms offers inflatable obstacle courses, swimming areas, kayaking, beach activities, and plenty of space for families to relax and play together.
Shopping in South Haven
Downtown South Haven is filled with locally owned boutiques, ice cream shops, coffee spots, and beach-town charm perfect for a slow summer afternoon.
Chicago Day Trip
Ashley’s family also recommends taking the South Shore Line train into Chicago for an easy day adventure. Highlights included visiting Skydeck at Willis Tower, exploring the massive playgrounds and green spaces at Maggie Daley Park, and taking a Wendella boat tour to experience the city skyline from the water.
St. Louis, Missouri
RYAN’S FAMILY GUIDE TO A FUN, EASY LONG WEEKEND
Looking for a family getaway that feels like a real vacation without spending an entire day in the car? Owensboro Parent staff member Ryan recommends St. Louis for a low-stress, family-friendly road trip packed with major attractions, hands-on activities, and plenty to do for kids of all ages.
One of the biggest perks? At just under three hours from Owensboro — mostly a straight shot down I-64 West — it’s close enough to avoid major backseat meltdowns but far enough away to feel like a true getaway. Ryan also loves that many of the city’s biggest attractions are located in the same general area, saving families time on parking, traffic, and logistics. It’s the perfect long weekend destination.
Saint Louis Zoo
Located inside beautiful Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is consistently ranked among the best zoos in the country — and general admission is completely free. Families can spend the day exploring animal exhibits while adding optional experiences like the Zooline Railroad or the Sea Lion Show, which Ryan says was absolutely worth it.
at the Gateway Arch, which features interactive exhibits on westward expansion, Indigenous history, and the construction of the Arch itself.
St. Louis Union Station
Gateway Arch
Even younger kids will love visiting St. Louis’ most iconic landmark. Ryan says Emery was fascinated by the tram ride to the top of the Gateway Arch, where small four-passenger pods carry guests to breathtaking views overlooking Missouri and Illinois. Families should also plan time for the free Museum
Once one of the world’s busiest train terminals, Union Station has been transformed into a giant family entertainment hub filled with restaurants, shopping, carnival games, mini golf, attractions, and activities. Families can ride the St. Louis Wheel, tackle the indoor ropes course, and explore one of the city’s biggest draws — the St. Louis Aquarium.
Ryan especially recommends the aquarium experience, which begins
with a high-tech virtual train ride narrated by St. Louis native John Goodman. Inside, kids can enjoy touch tanks featuring stingrays, doctor fish, and even small sharks, along with interactive exhibits and crowd-favorite river otters.
Build-A-Bear Workshop Flagship Store
Because St. Louis is the birthplace of Build-A-Bear Workshop, the flagship location inside Union Station feels extra special. Ryan says this stop was a huge hit with Emery thanks to the expanded experience, exclusive St. Louis-themed outfits and accessories, and the chance to cool off in the air conditioning after spending time outside exploring the plaza and attractions. OP
HIT THE ROAD & TURN UP THE MUSIC
The Eric Group has your soundtrack
to summer
There’s something about summertime and live music that just goes together. Maybe it’s dancing barefoot on the lawn while kids chase bubbles near the stage. Maybe it’s hearing a favorite song as the sun sets behind an amphitheater. Or maybe it’s simply packing up the car for a weekend adventure with family and friends. This summer, Owensboro families don’t have to travel far to experience incredible concerts, festivals, and community celebrations. Across western Kentucky and southern Indiana, communities are filling their calendars with live entertainment perfect for road trips, long weekends, and memory-making nights under the stars — and The Eric Group is helping make it happen.
From free riverfront concerts to nationally touring artists and destination festivals, The Eric Group continues helping communities across the region create unforgettable experiences through live entertainment.
5th Annual Downtown Summer Jam
Downtown Owensboro, Kentucky
If your family loves high-energy summer events, Downtown Summer Jam delivers a giant block-party atmosphere right in the heart of Owensboro. Returning July 18, the 5th Annual Downtown Summer Jam promises another lively evening of music, food, and community celebration downtown. This year’s featured act is Paradise Kitty, the nationally touring all-female Guns N’ Roses tribute band known for highenergy performances and crowdfavorite rock anthems. The event also includes food trucks, vendors, games, and activities that encourage families and friends to dance in the streets and celebrate summer together.
Scan for event information, entertainment details, and updates.
Friday After 5
Downtown Owensboro, Kentucky Families don’t even have to leave town to experience one of Kentucky’s best summer music traditions.
Celebrating its landmark 30th anniversary season, Friday After 5 remains one of Kentucky’s most beloved free summer concert series. Every Friday evening, Owensboro’s downtown riverfront transforms into a vibrant entertainment district filled
with multiple stages, food vendors, family activities, street performers, and live music spanning nearly every genre imaginable. Families can stroll the riverfront, enjoy the kids zone, grab dinner from local vendors, and spend the evening together under the lights of downtown Owensboro.
Scan for complete entertainment schedule and weekly lineup details.
STOMP AND HOLLER
Beaver Dam, Kentucky
Families looking for a unique fall getaway can also add STOMP AND HOLLER to their road trip calendar this year. Launching October 2-3, 2026, at Beaver Dam Amphitheater, STOMP AND HOLLER is a brand-new roots music and culture festival designed to celebrate Kentucky through music, bourbon, food, camping, and community. The destination-style weekend will feature nationally recognized roots and Americana artists across two stages alongside craft beverages, local food vendors, camping experiences, and immersive Kentucky culture.
Scan for festival details, ticket information, and camping packages.
Sounds on 2nd
Beaver Dam, Kentucky
If your family prefers smaller crowds and a more relaxed evening, Sounds on 2nd makes for an easy and affordable summer road trip from Owensboro. The free concert series takes place in downtown Beaver Dam throughout the summer and features local and regional bands, food vendors, shaved ice, lemonade shake-ups, and family activities. Select evenings also include bounce houses and kids entertainment, creating an easy outing for families wanting to enjoy live music together.
Scan for upcoming performers, dates, and event details.
Madisonville 4th Fest
Madisonville, Kentucky
Located less than an hour from Owensboro, Madisonville 4th Fest offers families an easy way to turn Fourth of July weekend into a musicfilled mini getaway.
One of the region’s largest outdoor celebrations returns July 3-5 as Madisonville 4th Fest and Praise in
the Park celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with three days of free music, fireworks, food, and family fun. This year’s entertainment lineup includes The Band Perry, All-4-One, The Lacs, Ashland Craft, Sugarhill Gang, Ben Fuller, Josh Baldwin, Megan Woods, and more. Along with nightly concerts, families can enjoy food trucks, vendors, children’s activities, and one of the area’s premier fireworks displays.
Scan for the full festival schedule, entertainment lineup, and event updates.
Castle Knoll
Amphitheater
Paoli, Indiana
For families wanting to combine music with a full weekend adventure, Castle Knoll Amphitheater offers the perfect excuse for a summer getaway to southern Indiana.
Tucked into the rolling hills near Paoli, the scenic outdoor venue offers an intimate concert experience under the stars while continuing to attract nationally recognized artists including Travis Tritt, Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners, and the Roots & Boots Tour featuring Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin, and Collin Raye. Families can easily pair a concert weekend with nearby attractions like Wilstem Wildlife Park or Big Splash Adventure.
Scan for concert dates, ticket information, and venue details.
LIVE on the BANKS
Smothers Park | Owensboro, Kentucky
Sometimes the best summer nights are the simplest ones — and LIVE on the BANKS has become one of Owensboro families’ favorite ways to spend a Saturday evening together. Every Saturday night from May through September, LIVE on the BANKS brings free live music to Smothers Park’s Overlook Stage along the Owensboro riverfront. The relaxed atmosphere makes it especially popular with families, as parents enjoy live music while children cool off in the splash pad or explore the awardwinning playground nearby. With beautiful Ohio River views and free admission, it continues to be one of Owensboro’s favorite weekly summer traditions.
Scan to see this summer’s full concert lineup and schedule.
Summer Nights Concert Series
Munfordville, Kentucky
Looking for a slower-paced smalltown road trip? Munfordville’s Summer Nights Concert Series offers a charming evening getaway less than two hours from Owensboro. The free concert series returns to historic downtown Munfordville with performances by 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience, country artist Marty Brown, and regional favorites The Crashers. Visitors can also enjoy food trucks, shopping, vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the evening. With its courthouse square setting and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of summer night that feels both nostalgic and relaxing.
Scan for the full concert schedule and additional event details.
Beaver Dam Amphitheater
Beaver Dam, Kentucky
Just 30 minutes down the road from Owensboro, Beaver Dam Amphitheater has become one of the region’s favorite destinations for families and music lovers looking for a big concert experience without a major road trip. Known across the region simply as “The DAM,” Beaver Dam Amphitheater continues proving that smalltown Kentucky can deliver major entertainment. The 2026 season is one of the venue’s biggest yet,
featuring artists like Hank Williams Jr., Nelly, Foreigner, Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge, Dwight Yoakam, Bret Michaels, Kansas, 38 Special, Mac McAnally, and The Kentucky Headhunters. The venue has become a favorite for fans thanks to affordable tickets, easy parking, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes concerts feel manageable for families and casual concertgoers alike.
Scan for the full concert lineup, ticket information, and upcoming events.
diScover
ADVICE AND TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE PARENTING AND LIFE EASIER
BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD THIS SUMMER
The Rutmans are telling their story to encourage safer, more intentional summer travel for families
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY WEDDING
Summer travel season is filled with early mornings, packed vehicles, tournament schedules, family vacations, and long stretches of road that become part of the memories families carry for years. For Ryan and Chivonne Rutman, those drives are a familiar part of life. The Owensboro couple — both Realtors and parents to daughters Addie-Belle, 18, and Charleigh, 14 — spend much of their time balancing work, school activities, sports, and family life on the go.
Recently, the Rutmans quietly marked one year since a drive home from a volleyball tournament changed their family forever.
But instead of allowing that day to become only a story about tragedy and fear, they have chosen to share it as a message about faith, preparation, gratitude, and the importance of staying connected — especially for families traveling this summer.
The trip itself was nothing unusual. The family had traveled to Franklin, Kentucky, for one of Charleigh’s travel volleyball tournaments with KSA, something they had done many times before. Weekends like that are busy, but meaningful.
“Those are moments we truly look forward to,” Chivonne said. “Watching her play, being together.”
The day, however, started with unexpected chaos. Around 5 a.m., a hailstorm swept through Owensboro, shattering the windows in both Chivonne’s car and Addie-Belle’s vehicle. Suddenly, the family was scrambling to cover broken windows and protect everything from the rain before leaving town.
Ryan’s truck became the only vehicle they could take.
Before leaving, Chivonne grabbed something small from her damaged car — two St. Christopher medals.
Saint Christopher is widely recognized as the patron saint of travelers, symbolizing protection and safe journeys. Ryan already had one medal hanging in his truck, but that morning Chivonne felt compelled to bring two more.
“That day we had three with us — three medals and three of us in the vehicle,” she said.
The tournament itself went well, and by early afternoon, Ryan, Chivonne, and Charleigh were headed home on I-165. Rain was falling lightly, but otherwise the drive felt normal.
Then, in an instant, everything changed.
“The next thing I remember was an unbelievable force hitting us and a loud noise,” Chivonne said. “I didn’t see the car coming.”
A vehicle traveling the wrong direction struck Ryan’s truck head-on at highway speed.
The airbags deployed immediately. The truck tilted. The family couldn’t see or fully understand what had happened. In those first moments, Ryan said only one thing mattered.
“We were just trying to make sure everyone was
Photo by Jamie Plain
okay,” he said.
The family quickly realized they were trapped inside the truck. Within minutes, strangers began rushing toward them through the rain.
Several men cut through airbags and physically helped carry each family member out of the vehicle. Once outside, the reality of the crash became clearer.
The other vehicle was nearly unrecognizable.
The driver of that vehicle did not survive.
Even now, a year later, the Rutmans still speak with deep compassion about the loss experienced by the other driver’s family.
“We think about them often,” Chivonne said. “We know how differently this story could have ended, and we don’t take that for granted.”
At the same time, the family remains deeply moved by the kindness shown to them in the moments immediately after the accident.
People brought umbrellas to shield them from the rain. Others wrapped them in blankets and stayed nearby until emergency crews arrived.
“I still think often about the people who stopped to help us,” Chivonne said. “Their kindness is something I will never forget.”
For Charleigh, the day became a reminder of both fragility and strength. Though shaken emotionally, her parents say she handled the situation with incredible maturity and resilience.
“She’s strong,” Ryan said. “I think all of us learned a lot about how quickly life can change, but also how important it is to stay calm and stay together.”
One piece of that day that continues to stand out to the family is the role technology played during the emergency — specifically, the Life360 app.
Like many parents with teenagers, Ryan and Chivonne originally downloaded Life360 years ago as a way to stay connected to their daughters’ locations and schedules. Between real estate, school events, sports travel, and teenage drivers, it simply made life easier.
But they had never thought about the app as a potential emergency tool.
Their oldest daughter, Addie-Belle, was not in the truck that day. She was attending a Catholic youth conference at Brescia University. After the crash, one of Chivonne’s first thoughts was getting in touch with her before she heard rumors or frightening details from someone else.
“I knew I needed to call her,” Chivonne said.
Later, Addie-Belle told her parents she had already received a missed call and voicemail from Life360 notifying her that Ryan had been involved in a serious accident and authorities were responding.
What stood out most was that the call was not automated. It was an actual person reaching out during an emergency.
“That moment completely changed how we view the app,” Ryan said.
The Rutmans now strongly encourage families to not only download Life360, but to take time to review the settings and understand the safety features available — particularly before
summer travel begins.
“We do pay for the Gold version, and honestly, we didn’t even realize crash detection was included until this happened,” Chivonne said. “None of us could reach our phones immediately after the accident. If we hadn’t been able to call someone ourselves, that feature would have been incredibly important.”
The family also encourages people to double-check the individuals included in their “circle” — the emergency contacts who will receive alerts if something happens.
“Those are the people who are going to get that call,” Ryan said. “You want to make sure the right people are there.”
One of the most important lessons the family shares is simple but powerful: if you are physically able after an accident, call your loved ones yourself as soon as possible.
“Being able to hear from me first made all the difference for Addie-Belle,”
three
Chivonne said.
While practical safety measures became more important after the crash, the Rutmans say their faith also deepened significantly.
Looking back, there are several moments they still struggle to explain away as coincidence — the hailstorm forcing them into Ryan’s truck, AddieBelle being surrounded by prayer at a Catholic conference during the accident, and the fact that injuries could have been much more severe.
“We truly believe we were covered in prayer that day,” Chivonne said.
The experience also shifted how the family approaches everyday life.
There is more prayer before trips now. More awareness on the road. More conversations about distracted driving and safety — especially with a teenage driver in the house.
“We’re definitely more cautious,” Ryan said. “You realize very quickly how much is outside of your control when
you’re driving.”
Still, despite everything they endured, the Rutmans don’t want their story to leave families fearful about travel.
Instead, they hope it encourages people to be intentional — to prepare, slow down, stay alert, and appreciate the people beside them on the journey.
“For families traveling this summer, I would just say: slow down, stay aware, and make safety a priority,” Chivonne said. “Look into tools like Life360, check your circles, and make sure your family knows what to do in an emergency.”
More than anything, though, the family says the experience reminded them what matters most.
“Life gets busy, and it’s easy to take things for granted,” Chivonne said. “But when something like this happens, it changes the way you see your time, your family, and what truly matters.” OP
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY WEDDING Ashley is the editor of Owensboro Parent Magazine. She enjoys everyday adventures with her husband, Drew, and their
kids, Avery, Reed and Mason.
Searching for Answers, Finally Feeling Heard
mollie Bratcher should have been settling into her freshman year at Western Kentucky University — meeting friends, going to class, finding her place.
Instead, she was getting sick. It started quietly. Fatigue. Pain. Trouble eating. Then it grew into something she could not ignore.
“I just wasn’t myself,” Mollie said. At first, she told herself it was normal. A tough adjustment. New schedule. New life. But the pain didn’t fade. It sharpened. It woke her at night.
Her mother, Susan Bratcher, could hear it in her voice.
“She would call us in the middle of the night crying,” Susan said. “We knew something wasn’t right.”
Mollie tried to push through. She went to class. Stayed involved. Did her best to keep up. But behind the scenes, she was struggling.
“I didn’t want this to take over my life,” she said. “But it was.”
She went to the emergency room. Then again. And again. Each time, the answer was the same: acid reflux.
She was treated and sent home.
“There were times I thought, maybe they’re right,” Mollie said. “But deep down, I knew something was wrong.”
The pain came in waves, often after midnight at one or two in the morning. Always intense and always frightening.
Back home in Owensboro, her parents worried. They drove to Bowling Green several times, just to check on her.
“You start questioning everything,” Mom Susan said. “Is it stress? Anxiety? Are we missing something?”
Months passed full of uncertainty, fear and exhaustion.
Then one night, it reached its breaking point.
Mollie was back home after a retreat. The pain hit hard. Worse than before.
“I was on the floor crying,” she said. “I told them, ‘I can’t do this anymore.’”
Even then, they hesitated. They had already been to the ER several times. Still no answers.
But something felt different this time.
They went to Owensboro Health.
From the moment Mollie walked through the doors, the experience changed.
“They got me back quickly,” she said. “They took me seriously.”
Before the doctor even spoke, he had already reviewed her chart. He knew her history. He understood the pattern.
“He said, ‘We’re not letting you leave until we have answers,’” Mollie said.
For Susan, it was immediate relief.
“It felt like a weight lifted,” she said. “Someone finally heard us.”
The doctor really listened. He asked questions. Ran tests. Took his time.
He did not assume. And he did not send her home.
Soon, the answer came. Mollie had pancreatitis caused by gallstones. She needed surgery to remove her gallbladder.
“After months of fear, we finally knew,” Susan said. “And that meant everything.” Mollie was admitted right away. The next few days were full of pain, tests, surgery and finally, recovery.
But for the first time, she felt something she had not felt in months.
Hope.
“They made me feel like I was going to be OK,” she said.
The care went beyond medicine. Nurses checked on her often. They smiled. They stayed. They treated her like a person, not a chart.
“They never made me feel like a burden,” Mollie said. “Even on the hardest days.”
One moment stayed with her.
The doctor looked at her and said, “You’re a smart girl. You know your body. You can advocate for yourself.”
After months of doubt, those words mattered.
“That made me feel heard,” Mollie said. “It made me feel like I wasn’t crazy.”
She stayed in the hospital for several days. Before she left, she asked her mom for one thing — a thank-you card for the doctor who figured it out.
“She wanted to make sure he knew how much it meant,” Susan said.
Today, Mollie is healthy again. She is ready to return to campus and reclaim the college experience she lost.
But she is not the same. Once a public relations major, she now hopes to work in healthcare as a child life specialist — helping patients who feel scared, anxious and unheard.
“I want people to feel the way Owensboro Health made me feel,” she said. “Safe. Heard. Like everything is going to be OK.”
For Susan, the lesson is simple.
“Parents know their children,” she said. “And when you find a team that listens, it changes everything.”
At Owensboro Health, that is the goal every day — not just to treat patients, but to hear them, to stand beside them and to find answers when it matters most.
And for Mollie Bratcher, that made all the difference. OP
Trading Screens for Connection
IN SIMPLE, EVERYDAY MOMENTS
As a mom, I understand how challenging screen time can be. There are plenty of moments when handing over a phone or tablet feels like the easiest option—especially when I need to finish a task or just need a quiet minute. But over time, my husband and I have realized how important it is for our family to be more intentional about when and how we use screens.
Some of the biggest shifts have come during the small, everyday moments—like waiting for food at a restaurant or driving in the van. Instead of automatically reaching for devices, we try to lean into simple alternatives. We play games, we talk, we listen, and sometimes, we do nothing. I’ve learned that boredom isn’t something to rush in and fix. When kids are bored, they start to imagine, create, and figure things out on their own in ways that don’t happen when a screen fills the space.
At restaurants, I’ve found that a little preparation goes a long way. Tossing small games like UNO Cards, Mad Libs, or our current favorite game, OK Play Tiles, into my bag can completely change the tone of the wait. When our kids were younger, we played “I Spy” or made up silly stories together—those ended up being some of our favorite memories. Now that they’re older, even something as simple as flipping through The
Week Junior magazine sparks great conversations and curiosity.
Van rides have become another opportunity to be more mindful. Instead of defaulting to screens, we listen to podcasts or audiobooks together, and our kids bring along activity books. It keeps them engaged, but in a way that feels calmer and more connected.
I’ve also become more aware of how quickly screen time can add up. Kids don’t always have a sense of how long they’ve been on a device, and it can easily go beyond what’s healthy.
Too much screen time can affect mood, attention, and even sleep.
Shifts like these are not perfect or easy and take time. It’s something I’m still working on, and it often starts with the adults. When we put our own phones down, it sets the tone for everyone else. It’s a small choice, but it matters.
At the end of the day, we are not aiming for perfection but connection. These small, intentional changes are helping us build stronger relationships and create the kind of everyday moments kids will remember. OP
KIDS meal DEALS
EVERY DAY
Dee's Diner - one free kids meal per adult meal purchase (in-house only, ages 5 and under).
iHOP - Children can enjoy a free meal from their Kid’s Menu when they buy an adult entrée between 4–10 p.m. daily.
Big Whiskey's - All kids' meals only $2.99 for a limited time only with purchase of an entree.
MONDAY
Moonlite Bar-B-Q InnUp to 2 kids eat free (ages 10 & under) with adult buffet purchase from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 4 - 8:30 p.m.
Zaxby’s – Up to three 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult meal from 5-8 p.m.
Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entrée.
TUESDAY
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – Kids 12 & under eat free when dining in with each adult meal purchase every Tuesday 4-8 p.m.
Big Whiskey’s – Every Tuesday night, kids eat FREE from 5-9 p.m.
Rock N’ Roll Sushi –Free kids Ramen with the purchase of an adult meal when dining in.
Fazoli’s – up to three kids meals for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult meal from 5 – 8 p.m.
Freddy’s – Free scoop or cone with the purchase of a kids meal on Family Night. Kids can enjoy coloring pages, crayons, balloons and stickers!
Pizza Hut (South Frederica location) – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet from 4:30 - 7 p.m.
Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich.
Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entrée.
THURSDAY
Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich.
SUNDAY
Firehouse Subs
$2 kids meal from open to 5 p.m. with the purchase of an adult meal.
Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of an adult entrée; dine in only.
