Owensboro Parent - October 2011

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October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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. October 2011

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{ owensboro parent . october 2011 }

Editor Ashley Sorce ashley@owensboroparent.com Publisher/Designer Jason Tanner

from the editor As I sit at my computer, writing my letter for this month’s issue, I can’t help but notice the occasional leaf drop off our red maple tree. Jeff and I planted it two years ago when we moved into our house. (Jeff really did the planting. I more or less told him where to dig the hole.) The tree stands tall outside of our kitchen window. And although it has weathered many storms this year, it remains strong.

jason@owensboroparent.com Sales Director Jonathan Tanner jonathan@owensboroparent.com Distribution Manager Robert Williams robert@owensboroparent.com Account Executives Jodi Tanner jodi@owensboroparent.com Jeff Sorce

Reminds me of us, really. Jeff and I have had the most whirlwind year.

Pregnancy brought so many new experiences— some beautiful, some terrifying. But here we are. Still strong. And now parents.

jeff@owensboroparent.com Contributors Christina Dalton

Avery Amelia was born Sept. 2 at 12:49 p.m. She weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 19 inches. I don’t know that doctors and nurses at Owensboro Medical Health System have seen two happier, more overjoyed parents than Jeff and I.

Dean Ehrenheim

Parenthood is not something I could have ever described before holding my daughter. I feel strange to have called myself editor of a parenting magazine for the last two months without knowing how being a mother truly feels.

Matt Weafer

It seems only appropriate that trees are beginning to lose their leaves and the air is turning crisp and cool. As the summer gently fades into fall, my role is transforming into all that it means to be a mother.

Dr. Brian Gannon Libby Johnson Jessica Weafer Lora Wimsatt Contact Information Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 23237 Owensboro, KY 42304 (270) 314-5240

This season brings new adventures, new experiences and new traditions for our family. Avery will soon have her first Halloween costume. Jeff and I are sure she’s going to be the cutest pumpkin of the season. She’s going to experience her first trip to Reid’s Orchard for the Apple Fest, granted she can’t enjoy an apple sundae yet. And she and her big brother/Golden Retriever, Cooper, will relish their first walk/stroller ride down the Greenbelt with leaves of all colors falling around them.

I hope that each of you enjoys this fall season and takes advantage of all this beautiful city has to offer. Be sure to keep traditions from years past, or for new families like us, create your own! Embrace being parents and don’t waste one second with your children.

Take it from this new mom: leaves will fall every year and seasons will continually change, but our role as parents is constant, and the most important role of our lives.

Always,

www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/owensboroparent Cover Photography Captured Moments Photography www.capturedmoments-ky.com Advertise Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine because of community support.

Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise with us.

If you want to contribute to the

Editor, Owensboro Parent Magazine ashley@owensboroparent.com

success of our magazine, we would love to hear from you and will work to develop an advertising partnership that will not only benefit you, but also the parents of Owensboro.

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parent talk 7 a celebration for the senses 8 a risk worth taking? 10

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5 tips for smoother mornings 13 parents stand up against statistics 15 advice from an ordinary dad 16 gone, but never forgotten 18 halloween costumes 20 a time for renewal 22 pumpkin spice cake 24 family fun 27 no tricks, just treats 28 october calendar 29 family getaway 36 the shangri-la chinese acrobats 38

october features

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{ from our readers }

parenttalk Our readers shared their stories about their family’s fall traditions. These are some of our favorites: Fall is our favorite season-- there’s so much to do! A few of our favorite activities to do as a family include: taking walks through fallen leaves, picking apples at Reid’s and pumpkins at Trunnell’s, and camping at Lake Rudolph for Halloweekends!

We love to get creative with our Halloween costumes too.

Last year my two youngest girls were popcorn and Coke. And our favorite fall treat-- caramel apples!

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Every Halloween we go with our three kids to my parents in Owensboro. There we eat chili, hot dogs and homemade pimento cheese sandwiches. After trick-or-treating there, we drive to McLean County to my mother-in-law’s house to trick-or-trick. We come home and watch Halloween shows and eat too much candy.

- Mary Edwards

April Wantz Long

My twin girls just turned five this summer, so we are super excited about this fall in particular! Ever since they were born, we’ve made it a point to take them to the Apple Festival at Reid’s Orchard every year. They ride the horses, pet the goats, listen to the local musicians, eat all of the wonderful goodies (especially the caramel apple slices and corn on the cob dipped in butter). Yummy! We love to just walk around looking at all the booths, smell the fresh fall air and visit with friends. We always buy pumpkins and take them home to paint and carve. Then we watch the It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. It’s the perfect day!

- Denise Auxier Townsend

We take the kiddos to the pumpkin patch.

While there we go on a hayride, pick out pumpkins, go through the corn maze and then finish the trip off with a bonfire and s’mores.

The next day the kids all pick out faces or art work for their own pumpkin and we stencil it out then carve our pumpkins while watching It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. That’s a tradition carried over from when my sister and I were children. The smell of pumpkins, the feel of pumpkin “guts” sliding between your fingers, the excitement of putting the candle or pumpkin light in and turning off all the lights to see your masterpiece light up, and Charlie Brown...ahh the memories!

- Danielle Brashear

Owensboro Parent strives to be an essential companion for parents in Owensboro.

Learn more online: www.owensboroparent.com

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{ by: lora wimsatt }

a celebration

for the senses There’s a reason autumn is the most popular season of the year. In fact, there are a lot of reasons, as many as there are colors of the trees.

T

here is a sumac tree along the highway near my house, nestled

year. In fact, there are a lot of reasons, as many as there are colors

among a grove of trees hanging over the road.

of the trees.

At least, I think it’s a sumac. Back in the 1970s, every seventh-

grader at Southern Junior High School was required to do a leaf collection. We rode our bicycles or walked all over Owensboro,

Football Friday

Is there anything more hopeful, more exciting, than those Friday

carefully selecting specimens of the ubiquitous silver and sugar

night lights? Sitting in the bleachers cheering for our local high

maples, searching for the elusive ginkgo, agonizing over the hard-

school teams, moms with afghans in school colors tucked around

to-identify pines, surreptitiously trading redbuds for dogwoods

their legs, dads “coaching” from the sidelines as they trade

during study hall.

memories from their own glory days. On the hillside behind the

goalposts, little boys are tossing wobbly passes and scoring their

It still bugs me, 41 years later, that I got the worst grade of my

scholastic career – a D – on an assignment that I honestly enjoyed.

own touchdowns while casting an admiring glance at the big

But Mrs. Rumage’s tough grading scale aside, I notice that sumac

boys out on the field … and the little girls practice cartwheels

every time I drive down the highway. It has one limb in particular

and cheers: “Bang bang, choo-choo train, come on team, do your

that catches my eye, because for some reason, the leaves on this

thing!”

singular branch turn bright red, all at once, weeks earlier than any

other leaves in town start to turn color.

A red flag of color in a field of green, signaling to anyone

Autumn Cookouts

Sure, summer afternoons take the credit for grilling burgers and

paying attention that summer is drawing to a close – autumn is

brats, but the real fun starts when the sun – and the thermostat

near.

– go down. There’s nothing cozier than sitting around a firepit

in the backyard, or gathering around a blazing bonfire if you live

There’s a reason autumn is the most popular season of the

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in the country, laughing and talking with family and friends.

Sparkling embers take the place of lightning bugs on these cooler evenings, and the background is filled with the sound of laughter as children play hide-go-seek in the dusky shadows. As the darkness grows deeper, the little ones tuck themselves close to their parents, snuggling in Mommy’s lap or nestled next to Daddy on the big log, listening – sleepy-eyed and content – to stories shared by the grown-ups in the fire’s golden glow.

Hiking and Biking

Outdoor exercise is a fun family activity any time of the year, but especially during autumn when the humidity has lifted (well, mostly, anyway). Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons are the perfect time for a family walk, on the Greenbelt, at the park or just through your neighborhood. Or strap on those helmets, tighten up the training wheels and enjoy a leisurely ride through the autumn landscape. Wave at neighbors – whether you know them or not. Smile at babies in their strollers. Pet dogs on their leashes. What a wonderful way to feel more connected to your community!

Seasonal Senses

Autumn is a celebration for the senses! Owensboro’s green landscape gives way to bright colors of yellow, red, orange and russet. Maybe we’re not allowed to burn leaves in town anymore, but the scent of crisp apples, tangy cinnamon and warm, hearty “comfort foods” still fills the air – and our tummies! Even chores are fun, as the whole family pitches in to rake leaves in the backyard. The little ones tumble into piles of leaves, shrieking with laughter as Daddy tosses another big armful of leaves on top of them. (He never seems to mind that he has to rake up the same leaves over and over again!)

And how fun to drive through town admiring the decorations of cornstalks, mums, pumpkins, gourds and haybales in our neighbors’ yards.

Memories of the Past, Hope for the Future

At the same time I was collecting leaves for that seventh-grade science project, our English teacher was introducing us to the poems of Emily Dickinson. We talked a lot about the “seasons of life.” We were springs, looking forward to the summer we could see on the horizon, but winter was so far away we couldn’t even imagine it. But now that I have arrived at the autumn of life … with all its memories, experiences, dreams, hopes and promises … I realize this really is the best season of all.

OP

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

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{ b y : d r. b r i a n g a n n o n }

parental concerns about vaccines:

a risk worth taking?

Over the past 50 years, medical science has been very successful in developing vaccines to prevent and, in some cases, nearly eradicate certain infectious diseases. The irony of this success is that many parents today have little or no real-world experience with a child paralyzed from polio or an adult with brain damage from measles. Many parents don’t really even remember what chickenpox looked like, since it was 20 or more years ago, and kids today seldom get serious cases.

So what are some of the reasons parents list for delaying vaccines or even deciding against one or all recommended childhood immunizations? There are several common misconceptions, fueled by incorrect information that is often found on the Internet.

THE MYTH Vaccines (particularly MMR, for measles, mumps and rubella) cause autism.

THE TRUTH This idea began with an article published in a medical journal about 12 years ago. The theory was taken very seriously, and many other researchers looked carefully for this supposed link.

Looking back, it turned out to be a hoax by a doctor in Britain who disagreed with the concept of vaccinating children. The original article has been retracted and the doctor lost his license for falsifying data. It seems this was just an “urban legend.”

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THE MYTH Giving a baby “so many” shots at once is too hard on their developing immune systems.

THE TRUTH When a baby exits his mother’s womb, he is instantaneously exposed to hundreds of thousands of “antigens,” or particles in the air that make the immune system respond. Vaccines only expose the child to about 20 or so antigens, at the most. Babies are well-equipped to handle this, and the FDA is very careful about evaluating vaccines for this issue before they are ever available to be given in doctors’ offices.

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THE MYTH These diseases are gone from the US, so why should we torture our babies?

THE TRUTH If vaccination rates drop, the next epidemic is just a plane flight away. Many of these infections are still rampant in other parts of the world, and there have been cases of measles even in Owensboro in the last 2 years. Pertussis (whooping cough) is on the rise, with hundreds of cases every year in the US. As long as most parents follow the recommended schedule, the unvaccinated kids can benefit from the low rates of infection in our community. But the more parents refuse, the higher the risk of a problem, as we saw in San Diego last year with about a dozen deaths from measles.

THE MYTH Won’t my child suffer terribly by receiving so many shots in one visit?

THE TRUTH A study a few years ago was very clear: children suffer more when the shots are spread over several visits. The child who receives combination vaccines in three to four injections during the first three well child checkups experiences minimal pain compared to an older child who gets one shot every month for 10 to 12 months. By giving them all quickly at one visit, the child experiences the pain as one long injection, rather than three to four separate ones, but if they are given on different days, this benefit disappears.

As a child health advocate, I believe the FDA is watching over our children’s safety, and we should trust that our doctors would never recommend any treatment or preventive measure that would cause illness or damage to our children. Much of the information available that preaches against vaccination is based on philosophy, not science. This may be valid for some

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THE MYTH What about all the stuff added to the vaccines?

THE TRUTH The mercury has been removed from almost all vaccines for several years because of some questions about this, and the rates of autism have continued to rise. The other chemicals in vaccines have been looked at closely and have always proved to be safe.

Some helpful, unbiased and reliable resources on the Internet regarding vaccines and child health in general include: www.healthychildren.org; www.immunizationinfo.org; and www.cdc.gov/vaccines/.

people, but it is important for us as parents to be honest with ourselves about how we are using information to decide on the best medical care for our children.

OP

Dr. Brian Gannon is a partner at Pediatric Partners of Western Ky in Owensboro and the father of five children, including 2-year-old twins. He is a very busy man.

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{ by: christina dalton,

mssw, csw

}

5 tips to make your mornings go smoother...

Are your mornings a scene out of “The Amazing Race?” Do you feel like you are signing permission slips and looking for tennis shoes as you walk out the door to start your day? There are plenty of parents out there who feel this way in the morning— I know I do. Some days I feel like I deserve a gold star for getting my child to school on time with backpack in hand! Hopefully you’ll find at least one of these tips will help you breathe a little easier come tomorrow morning.

Upcoming Love and Logic Parenting Classes: October 18 – November 15 (Tuesdays) 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Southern Oaks Elementary School Some of the advice listed comes from the Love and Logic Parenting Program. The Family Resource and Youth Services Center’s have been providing parenting classes for over 10 years to the community.

If you are interested in learning more about the Love and Logic Parenting Classes or to register please contact Christina Dalton at (270) 852-7561.

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1 Always check with your children or look through their backpacks to make sure you sign any important documents that may need to be returned to school. This will not only save you time, but save you the hassle of trying to do too many things in the morning.

2 Have your children pick out what they are going to wear to school the night before. This is especially important if your kids have extracurricular activities and need certain items for the following day.

Let your children know in advance, “Breakfast is served until ____ .”

(You fill in the blank). If you give your children a specific time that breakfast ends at your house, no one can complain when the kitchen closes!

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4 If you drive your children to school, you can also let them know, “The car leaves at ____ .”

(Again, you fill in the blank). A good way to do this, especially with smaller children, is to put a sticker on the clock that indicates when the car leaves. It will save you from repeating yourself over and over.

5 The last tip goes for both parents and children.

Everyone needs sleep! Just like we need food for nutrition, our bodies need sleep to function properly and feel rested. Children actually need more sleep than adults, so try to make sure everyone gets enough rest!

OP

Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is the Family Resource Center Coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.

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owensboro parents stand up against statistics

{ paid advertorial }

K

entucky has a profound track record when it comes to taking designed to help every parent manage each challenge successfully. care of its children. Among our library of accomplishments, What makes Bellewood’s program different from traditional foster we held first place in 2009 for the highest death rate from child care is the purposeful planning and ongoing support it gives its abuse and neglect. We don’t seem to want to relinquish this title parents. Financial assistance is about as far as most agencies go, either because currently every 8 minutes a child in this state is the but Bellewood offers parental training and preparation long before reported victim of some form of abuse. a child even enters the home. Continued guidance, therapy sessions It seems much easier to turn a blind eye on disturbing and individualized services are also part of the package. statistics such as these, but one long-standing nonprofit is taking a Rhondalyn Randolph is a single mother in Owensboro and successful, proactive approach toward improving childcare – and believes foster parenting is an opportunity to make a positive parents in Owensboro are right there with it. impact in a child and the community.

Since Bellewood’s Bellewood Home for Children has been

“What I’ve learned about foster therapeutic foster providing care to abused and homeless youth parenting is that one individual can make a big since it began in 1849 as a small orphanage. Now, difference,” Rhondalyn says. “The smallest program began in more than a century and a half later, Bellewood is accomplishments can inspire a person to 2008, more than a statewide agency with a multitude of services to 370 youth have been tackle other challenge.” children and young adults who have experienced

Since Bellewood’s therapeutic foster placed in homes. abuse and neglect is the worst ways. program began in 2008, more than 370 youth “Our young people have been through unimaginable events have been placed in homes. In Owensboro, 35 homes have been a by the time they get to us,” Bellewood President and CEO, Jerry part of the program, which continues to go across the state.

Cantrell, says. “But our mission is to reclaim them, educate Keith and Patricia Satterfield are parents in one of those homes, them and empower them to live as self-sufficient adults who have preparing for the adoption of two children after foster parenting for overcome the barriers of their past.” more than a year.

One of Bellewood’s services is a highly successful therapeutic “We never expected to adopt our girls,” Patricia admits. “And foster care program, which has spread throughout Owensboro and Bellewood’s staff has gone above and beyond for our family.”

Western Kentucky, equipping parents with the tools they need to Going beyond the limit is part of Bellewood’s mission for young meet every obstacle. people who have been abused and abandoned. Their programs Tackling a challenge is part of every parent’s life, but as a foster are turning Kentucky’s track record around, and foster parents in parent, the challenges often increase because of the emotional baggage Owensboro are needed to help. a child brings inside the home. Bellewood’s innovative program is OP

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advice from an ordinary dad

Photo by Donnie Hagan

Finding a coach that strives to win, but understands the bigger issues of character development through sports participation, is a true find. { by: dean ehrenheim }

B

efore my YMCA days I was a full-time swim coach. As coach, I worked with some of the nation’s most talented swimmers.

Those youth succeeded at differing levels for many various reasons.

Sometimes it was pure talent, others true grit, and still others the combination of both.

Is your child the next Hussein Bolt, Michael Phelps or John Wall? It is easy to watch collegiate and professional athletes and dream about your child making it to the big leagues. And for some parents, like the parents of Brad Wilkerson or the Hayden brothers, this dream became a reality, which is great. But most fall short of that level of success.

So what’s the point? Is winning the only thing?

Vicki Quisenberry, parent of four kids participating in both swimming and cross country says, “Of course not. It’s about becoming a balanced person and learning how to graciously win and graciously lose. It’s about balance, in academics, church and athletics. It’s about learning how to be part of team and being responsible to that team.”

There will be many choices in raising your kids. Understanding that concept of balance is important, especially with younger athletes. If they are destined to be the next phenom, they will find their way, usually without an overzealous parent or coach. For the

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rest of the pack, they will have a leg up on the competition when it comes to living life in the adult world.

Parents have a huge impact on their kids’ development.

However, I learned an important lesson years ago while working with a parent volunteer. She and I were putting together a marketing piece for our swim team. It needed to set us apart from the other teams in the area.

After pouring all of my marketing genius into the brochure, she asked a very simple question, “What is the most important thing for a parent to know?”

“Price,” I responded, “It’s on the front inside panel.”

“No that’s not it,” she said politely.

I tried again with location.

“No.” “Competitions?”

“No” “Team size, accomplishments, philosophy?”

“No, no, no.”

Finally she told me the answer, “The coach.”

And she was right.

Parents need to know who will be impacting their kids outside of the home. In some sports a coach may work with the same group www.OwensboroParent.com

of athletes for five or more years. By simple virtue of that time investment, they will have more impact than even a teacher or youth minister at church.

Finding a coach that strives to win, but understands the bigger issues of character development through sports participation, is a true find. If the only thing that ever matters is the final score of the game, it will be easy to miss the real finish line years later.

Today, Brendon Maxwell, a child of the Generation Y era, is co-owner of Utopian Coffee Company (www.utopiancoffee.com) in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He has also started a non-profit initiative called Third World Cup (www.thirdworldcup.org), which uses soccer as a global uniting language, bringing opportunity to those who have little.

“Growing up as an athlete, specifically within swimming, I was challenged, both mentally and physically, beyond what I ever imagined,” Maxwell said. “Having been pushed outside of my limits – beyond what I thought was possible lead to my growth, within athletics and outside of them. Whether it was at school, my workplace or traveling overseas, the confidence that was built and fostered through sports transcended and gave me victories and successes in these other arenas.”

Owensboro has it’s share of athletic traditions and successes.

None perhaps more recognized than Tony Rowe’s 35-year impact with the Daviess County High School cross country and track programs. With 10 state championships, seven individual cross

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country champions and numerous track champions, his insights shared in his book, Trails, Trials & Triumphs: The Daviess County Running Tradition, addresses the need for success beyond the playing field.

Rowe writes, “In today’s society, many of the traditional responsibilities that were once a part of the typical American family are gone. Very few kids throw hay, work in tobacco, or have chores where so many character qualities became inherent. While not all aspects of sports are positive, within the proper balance, athletics can serve a vital role in the successful passage over the bridge from adolescence into adulthood. It’s easy for us to put negative labels on young people but the truth is that most are ‘successes looking for a place to happen!’ When I look back on my own high school and college days, I am so thankful for the struggles and accomplishments that came through the daily grind of athletics… and I am sure I am not alone in that sentiment.”

Whether your child scores the winning goal, out runs that kid from across state or wins that college scholarship, sports has something to teach each child about life, character and becoming a great adult.

But that’s just what one ordinary dad thinks.

OP

Dean Ehrenheim, with his wife Jeanette, is raising four great kids. He regularly writes about his experiences in parenting, coaching and wellness.

His email is dmeymca@gmail.com.

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gone, but

never forgotten Tommy & Cathy Mullins

“Brandon was passionate about living on the edge, so much so that one may have perceived him as a living paradox. He walked a fine line almost his entire life, between failure and success, between danger and safety, between rebellion & submission, between illegal and honorable, between running away and coming home, between hell-bent and heaven-bound.”

Read during the funeral of PFC Brandon Mullins

by Pastor Damian Schoonmaker

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A

lthough the Mullins family moved to Owensboro more than 10 years ago, the memory of their son, dressed in camouflage, playing on an armory tank in their hometown of Ashland, Kentucky is not so distant.

Tommy Mullins, 51, wife Cathy, 42, and their three children have always been a proud, three-generation military family.

And when that son, Brandon, who quickly traded in his childhood camo for military fatigues, decided to enlist in the United States Army in Feb. 2010, both parents fully supported him.

“He relished the idea of protecting the United States,” Tommy said.

For Brandon, joining the Army was not a difficult decision. His older brother, Shaun, now 23, had enlisted before him and Brandon also chose to join the infantry.

“He wanted the tough job,” Cathy said.

“He wanted to fight. He was competitive.”

Brandon reported to basic training and was later sent to Alaska for further

preparation. In May 2011, he was deployed to Afghanistan.

“Brandon matured very quickly,” Tommy said. “From the time he entered basic training…you could see a big change in his life. He was headed in the right direction with his life.”

Able to speak with their son every week, Tommy and Cathy knew he was proud of his service to his country. On many occasions Brandon told his parents he wished to reenlist.

“Brandon knew what war was about,” Tommy said. “He was a part of the 9/11 generation. He wanted to fight the war on terror.”

And fight is exactly what Brandon did, until August 25 when his vehicle drove over an improvised explosive device. He was 21 years old when he died.

That same day a chaplain and notification officer from the Army station at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky were sent to the Mullins’ home. But they were not there. www.OwensboroParent.com

Photo by Dream Copy Photography

{ by: ashley sorce }

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Painting by Aaron Kizer

Tommy and Cathy were actually back in Ashland that day, preparing funeral services for Cathy’s mother who had recently died.

Their daughter, Bethany, 19, was the only family member home when the two officials rang the doorbell.

Because Brandon’s parents were required to be notified first, Army protocol did not permit the officials to inform Bethany of her brother’s death. In fact, until a chaplain and notifying officer out of Ft. Knox, Kentucky could reach the Mullins in Ashland nine hours later, the family was uncertain of what happened to their son and brother.

“We had already processed a lot in our hearts,” Cathy said. “Our faith had already settled in.”

It is their faith in God that the Mullins attribute to their ability to cope with their son’s death.

Cathy remembers meeting a USO Officer at the Dover, Deleware airport, where their son’s body was returned home. “[That officer] made the comment, ‘I am amazed at your family. You have come together through this. You would not believe how divided people are. How angry people are,’” Cathy said. “Families go through this all the time.”

The Mullins understand their son’s death is not the only loss.

“Every day there is another soldier who dies,” Cathy said. “There might be one or two soldiers tonight, might be two or three the next day. Since Brandon died there have been at least 20.”

In fact, since the war began in the Middle East, more than 6,000 American soldiers have lost their lives. While Brandon’s death has added to this statistic, Tommy and Cathy are happy to have their son home.

“People don’t understand that there are people unaccounted for from past wars,” Tommy said.

Since World War II, 22,000 soldiers are missing in action.

“It’s comforting to know Brandon is home,” Cathy said. “We know where Brandon’s at. He’s OK.” The Mullins family never dreamed they would receive the amount of support from their community as they did when they brought their fallen soldier home.

“He had a hero’s memorial,” Cathy said.

Sept. 11, the day the entire country remembered the terrorist attacks from 10 years ago, the Mullins family held a memorial service for their son. An astounding 800 people attended the service. The funeral procession, lead by 576 motorcycles, traveled from Good Shepherd Church to Owensboro Memorial Gardens, taking one hour to drive 11 miles.

Tommy and Cathy, married almost 25 years, attribute their ability to cope to the strong support they have received from their family and community and their faith.

“We don’t expect to bury our sons and daughters,” Tommy said. “We expect them to bury us.”

Steady prayer has consoled this broken family. And despite their deep loss, the Mullins are encouraged at the

thought of helping other families survive similar tragedy.

“Parents don’t need to be afraid to grieve,” Tommy said. “We experience such a wide range of emotions, from sorrow to anger to guilt. Don’t be afraid to cry. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.”

But most importantly, as parents of three children and survivors of one child’s death, the Mullins want to emphasize one thing.

“You never give up on your children,” Tommy said. “No matter what, don’t give up on your children ever.”

OP

Special thanks to Tommy and Cathy Mullins for sharing their story with Owensboro Parent.

Ashley is a first-time mommy, a not-sonewlywed, an organizational freak and the editor of this awesome magazine. (Which is of course a totally unbiased opinion.)

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{ facebook photo contest }

halloween costumes Robots, Chipmunks and Superheroes! Thanks for sharing your childrens’ best Halloween costumes with Owensboro Parent. We loved all of the entires and picked a few at random to share with our readers.

Happy Halloween, Owensboro!

Congratulations to Caleb, winner of the U-Bounce Party House Birthday Party!

U-Bounce Party House Party Winner, Caleb

Bryson

Erin & Kyndal

Annie

Ja’Lynn

Julia

Austin Blake

Claire Elizabeth

Landon & Lainey 20 OWENSBORO PARENT

. October 2011

Emmitt www.OwensboroParent.com

Addesyn

Nolan

Jayden

Lacey & Austin

Gavin

Abram, Rowan, Bryar

Matthew Dale

Madison

Lillian

Levi www.OwensboroParent.com

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

21

{ by: libby johnson }

single moms: a time for renewal

MentorKids KY reminds single mothers there are people who want to help.

F

or nearly 10 years, MentorKids KY has been supporting single parents and their children in Owensboro and Daviess County.

The mission of MentorKids, according to Executive Director Matt Woodfall, is to match Christian adults with local kids who are being raised by a single parent.

“There are about 6,000 single parents in Owensboro, and over 5,000 of those are single moms,” said Woodfall, whose organization already reaches out specifically to those moms through MentorMoms, an in-house program for mothers of “troopers,” the children who

Logan & Karen Midkiff

22 OWENSBORO PARENT

. October 2011

participate in MentorKids. On October 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., however, the group is hosting “Renew,” an open event for any single mother in the area.

“Over and over, the thing we hear from our moms is ‘There’s not enough of me to go around,’” Woodfall said. “Single moms are trying to balance everything at once and it’s hard to reach out and ask for help. This (Renew) is a reminder that there are people who want to help.”

Renew, which is taking place at Owensboro Christian Church on the same day as the church’s Harvest Day festival, will feature free VIP passes for local service, such as oil changes and yard work, day spa experiences, haircuts and styles, a financial seminar, free useful gifts and door prizes, and scholarships for moms and kids.

Woodfall explains that the name of the event is indicative of its purpose.

“We landed on Renew because it is a title of growth and a place to feel free, to relax,” Woodfall said.

The need for relaxation is one that Karen Midkiff, a local church administrator, felt often in her years as a single mother. A stay-athome mom, Midkiff found herself suddenly single with a 5 year-old son. Living far from her family in Owensboro, she found work at a potpourri plant in the small Arkansas town where she lived. Because she had to work, she put her son in childcare, which was emotionally stressful for both of them, she recalls.

“I thought I had a good sitter, but then one day she left the windows open and when I walked up to get him, I heard her yelling at him,” Midkiff said.

Shortly thereafter, Midkiff, who credits grace and the power of prayer for her fortunate circumstances throughout her life as a

www.OwensboroParent.com

single parent, became a licensed, in-home daycare provider. That career enabled her to work from home until her son, Logan, now 29, graduated from high school.

Though her childcare problems were solved, Midkiff experienced the gamut of challenges and emotions that accompany being a single parent.

“When you are a single parent, especially if you are young, you are making all the decisions,” Midkiff said. “You worry about the school fees, the light bill and keeping your child dressed and fed.

You are so emotionally and physically worn out that you forget to sit down with your child and tend to their emotional and spiritual needs.”

She stresses not to let the “busy, necessary stuff ” get in the way of the attention your child needs. Though that is a challenge on its own, Midkiff also stresses that it is important not to make your child your friend.

“If you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself saying too much to your child,” Midkiff cautions, “and the child deserves to be a child.”

On several occasions, Midkiff remembers, people would say to her son, “You’re the man of the house.” That was particularly frustrating, because she didn’t want her son to bear that burden.

Midkiff, whose son is a college graduate and a successful businessman, admits the biggest challenge to being a single parent was simply being single.

“At the end of the day, it’s hard not to have someone there to validate your decisions,” Midkiff said. “No one to say to, ‘Are we doing the right thing?’ I would feel so good when someone would say to me, ‘I saw Logan today, and he has such nice manners’ or something like that. The thing most single parents crave is a little affirmation now and then.”

Of course, without a partner to reassure you that you are on the right path in raising your child, one measure of success is to watch your child succeed. Whether that success is measured in academics, career, relationships or all three, Midkiff stresses a belief that can benefit all parents, not just the single ones.

“Let your child show you who they are,” Midkiff said. “The best thing you can do is to let go of preconceived notions and take the time to learn your child. You’ll be able to guide them better.”

OP

More tips from a successful single parent: *Just accept that you can be a mother doing “dad things,” but you can’t be a mom & a dad (or vice versa). *Having roots is important. Moving kids around can be confusing for them. *Keeping your child away from negative influences is as important as exposing them to good ones, especially at a young age.

Libby Johnson is (in no particular order) a wife, mom to two boys, a teacher, freelance writer and former competitive swimmer. She enjoys being outside, sarcasm and well written sentences by teenagers. Her hobbies are reading, mommy guilt and dreaming about the day she’ll be able to attend classes at the gym again. www.OwensboroParent.com

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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Pumpkins have been a staple ingredient for Halloween and All Hallows Eve for centuries. This orange fruit has also been utilized in North American culture since before the pilgrims hit Plymouth Rock. Native Americans would dry strips of pumpkin and weave them into mats.

They also roasted them over coals and ate them. Early settlers made the first rendition of pumpkin pie by slicing off the top of a pumpkin, hollowing it out and filling it with milk, honey and spices, then baking it in a clay oven.

This

recipe

combines

two

great

things about Halloween, pumpkin and chocolate. The cake recipe is relatively standard, but is heightened by fresh spices and fresh pumpkin. Freshly ground or grated spices always render a more robust and cleaner flavor. Once a spice is ground, it immediately begins to lose

tasty family recipe!

flavor. Many ground spices are also blended with different agents to prevent clumping,

maintain

color

or

make

pouring easier.

pumpkin spice cake

The spices for this recipe also include

with chocolate ganache

cardamom.

{ by: matt weafer }

Not

typically

found

in

pumpkin spice, this aromatic Indian spice blends well with cinnamon, clove and nutmeg. And using fresh pumpkin as opposed to canned can elevate the pumpkin flavor as well. You can substitute canned pumpkin, but the flavor is not the same.

Though pumpkin is typically found baked into sweet treats, it is extremely healthy, high in vitamin A, with 245% of your daily value, vitamin C, iron, calcium, potassium, fiber and some protein.

24 OWENSBORO PARENT

. October 2011

The Pumpkin One of the reasons many people choose canned pumpkin over fresh is convenience. But as long as you have 5 to 10 minutes to break down your pumpkin, the hardest work is completed by your oven.

Remove the stem of the pumpkin, and scrape the seeds and fibrous strands from the center of the pumpkin and then slice it in half. Place the pumpkin skin-side-up on a lightly greased, foil-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the pumpkin is soft, enough to mash by hand, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool. Then scoop all the pumpkin out and you have fresh pumpkin puree. You can do this the day before and store it in the refrigerator.

You will most likely have pumpkin left over from this recipe, so use it in a soup. Puree with sautĂŠed onions, garlic and chicken stock with a little sage and a touch of heavy cream. You can also dice raw pumpkin and sautĂŠ it with potatoes and sausage and make a potato pumpkin hash. www.OwensboroParent.com

The Cake Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour 13-by-9 inch pan. Combine the dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda and all the spices. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and pumpkin.

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make sour milk by combining one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make a combined one cup. Let stand about 5 minutes.

Bake at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool.

In a stand mixer or mixing bowl, combine both sugars and butter. Beat on medium high speed until well incorporated. Add the eggs and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and continue to beat on high until butter mixture becomes lighter in color and fluffy.

Pour chocolate over the cooled cake and store in the refrigerator to let the chocolate set. If set out at room temperature for too long, the chocolate may start to melt, so serve it cool.

Reduce the mixer to medium-low and alternating between flour mixture and pumpkin mixture, add each. Mix just until blended.

www.OwensboroParent.com

Chocolate Ganache Place the chocolate chips in a heavy glass bowl. Pour the cream into a small sauce pan over medium heat and bring to a scald. Turn off the heat, add the vanilla and then pour the cream over the chocolate chips. Stir until all the chips have melted and the mixture is smooth and shiny.

OP

Ingredients ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature 2 cups all purpose flour 1 cup sugar 2 eggs ½ cup brown sugar ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated ¼ teaspoon fresh nutmeg 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¾ cup fresh pumpkin 1 cup buttermilk 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder

Matt Weafer has a 1-year-old son, is a former restaurant chef and has been freelance writing since 2003.

½ teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup heavy cream 1 ½ cups chocolate chips

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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26 OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

{ fall festivals }

familyfun Octoberfest at Trunnell’s Farm Market October 1 – 2; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Reminisce about the past with live demonstrations: cider making, corn grinding, butter churning, broom making and basket weaving. FREE Pumpkins to the first 100 customers. Listen to live music while viewing the countryside, let the children enjoy the Family Fun Acre, interactive Giant Corn Maze, hayrides to the Pumpkin Patch, face painting, pumpkin painting and great food.

The Great Pumpkin Fest at Trunnell’s Farm Market October 8 & 9; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The Great Pumpkin Hunt will begin at 2 p.m. (Children bring your baskets.) Prizes will be awarded. The event will include pumpkin carving and contest, pumpkin painting and contest, guess the weight of the giant pumpkin contest, pumpkin bowling, Funky Pumpkin Game, Pumpkin Toss and face painting.

Apple Fest at Reid’s Orchard October 15 & 16; Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. & Sunday 12 – 6 p.m.

The Apple Festival is an event for the whole family with 20 food booths, 90 crafts booths, entertainment, demonstrations and carnival riders. The festival has been named a Top 10 event by the Kentucky Tourism Council and a Top 20 event by the southeast Tourism Society, which covers 11 states.

www.OwensboroParent.com

Ole’ Cider Days Festival at Trunnell’s Farm Market October 15 & 16; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

A weekend of apple cider -- six different kinds! Live music, tasty barbecue, freshly pressed apple cider, apple cider donuts, cider slushies and great fun for the whole family. Guests will experience how pioneers made cider with antique, hand-cranked presses or enjoy scenic hayrides around the farm and to the Pumpkin Patch.

A-maize-ing Maze Quest Fest at Trunnell’s Farm Market October 22; 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

The whole family can enjoy exploring Trunnell’s five mazes during the day and then grab your flashlight and jacket for Flashlight Night in the Trunnell’s Corn Maze!

Enjoy finding your way through the interactive Giant Corn Maze in the dark, which is a whole new experience that is fun for all ages.

Fall Squash-N-Pumpkin Gobble at Trunnell’s Farm Market October 29 & 30; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Come feast on smoked turkey legs or excite your taste buds with delicious pumpkin and squash soup. Enjoy the farm scenery while listening to live entertainment or hop aboard a hayride to the Pumpkin Patch. Children will enjoy fun fall crafts!

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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{ by: jessica weafer }

no tricks just treats

T

he most important thing to your child on Halloween may be to fill his pillowcase full of candy, but as the parent, chances are you are more concerned with keeping your candy-crazed, pumpkinninja turtle-princess-super hero safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a list of Halloween precautions to keep your little ones safe while they frolic and fright.

According to AAP, children should wear costumes that are bright and reflective. If the costume your child chooses is not bright or reflective, you can add reflective tape or striping to the costume or to their trick-or-treat bag for greater visibility. The AAP also stresses the importance of children and their parents using flashlights or other lighted devices.

Young children should always be accompanied by adults when trick-or-treating. If your children are old enough to go out on their own, be sure they have a cell phone so they can call either 911 or you if they run into any trouble or get lost.

AAP also says you should discuss a trick-or-treat route with your child, so you know where they will be and they know where to go.

Remind your child to only go to houses that have porch lights on and to never enter someone’s home or car to get a treat. You will also want to remind your child to stay in groups, to stay in well lit areas and to walk either on the sidewalk or on the edge of the roadway facing traffic. According to AAP, pedestrian injuries are the most common injuries to children on Halloween.

Once your little trick-or-treater returns home with their loot, inspect the candy before they begin their long-awaited sugar binge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that parents examine each piece of candy to not only make sure that it is not a choking hazard, but also to make sure that the candy has not been tampered with. The CDC also warns against eating homemade treats because you can’t be sure of the contents and you can’t be sure that the treats were cooked properly. The CDC recommends only eating factory-wrapped treats unless you know the maker of the homemade treats.

OP

Jessica Weafer is a stay-at-home mom and freelance writer. She lives in Owensboro with her 1-year-old son, husband and cat.

28 OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

{ owensboro parent }

october calendar Informing parents about fun, local events is a priority for Owensboro Parent. Our magazine compiles events from across the city and county. So when your family is looking for something to do, check out the Owensboro Parent calendar, where you will find information on local events, including event descriptions, locations, dates, times and price.

Your event not listed? Contact the editor at ashley@owensboroparent.com.

OCTOBER 1

25TH ANNUAL FARM FESTIVAL A fun event for the whole family,

U.S. Highway 60 through Livingston, Crittenden, Union, Henderson, Daviess, Hancock, Breckinridge, and Meade counties. Hundreds of local individuals, businesses, and groups are expected to participate this year, setting up yard sales and craft booths on their properties along the highway. This unique event allows visitors from Kentucky and surrounding states to enjoy an exciting shopping experience, while taking in the distinctive flavor of the Ohio Valley’s unique restaurants, shops, and southern hospitality; free event, except what you buy; 1-800-489-1131.

VOICES OF ELMWOOD Join the Daviess County Public Library and

FREE HIGHWAY 60 YARD SALE The sale will stretch for 200 miles along

COMMUNITY SPELLING BEE FOR BOOKS A unique, exciting event that raises funds and awareness for the Daviess County Imagination Library program while stressing the importance of literacy and education. The Community Spelling Bee is a fun, family-friendly event! Local businesses, corporate teams, government representatives, school groups, church groups, bunco teams, book clubs, business associations, non-profit organizations, anyone wanting to have fun together, bee competitive, and support local literacy and early learning efforts are welcome; Owensboro Christian Church Community Dining Room (Rooster Booster room), 2818 New Hartford Rd.; spawjohnson@roadrunner.com.

www.OwensboroParent.com

featuring John Deere tractors and equipment. Event will have antique cars and trucks, kiddie rides and inflatables, tractor pulls, great food and prizes.

Bring your own tractor to the field – all makes and models welcome; Lampkin Farm; 8284 Short Station Rd., Philpot, KY; $3 admission. the Owensboro Museum of Science and History as they invite you on the fourth annual “Voices of Elmwood” tour. Take a hayride through the historic sections of Elmwood Cemetery and learn about some of the history of Owensboro, and the people who helped to shape it. Local actors will be portraying figures from Daviess County’s past; 6 p.m. – 11 p.m., the tour will last approximately an hour; Elmwood Cemetery, 1300 Old Hartford Rd.; $10, and all profits will go toward the establishment of a fund to aid in the restoration of those monuments damaged in the Tornado of 2001; owensboromuseum.com

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art features a multimedia exhibition featuring 6 artists whose works will celebrate the traditions of Bluegrass music through the lens of art. Museum open Thursday & Friday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.; OMFA, 901 Frederica Street; Adults $2, children under 13 $1; 270-685-3181 or omfa.us.

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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FREE ARTLAND An exciting new dimension in education, is an interactive

TASTE OF OWENSBORO Enjoy unlimited food and drink at this event.

art studio created especially for children ages 4 to 10. It is a special place designed to challenge and stimulate the imagination while allowing children to create works of art at their own pace. ARTLAND features an art laboratory fully equipped with supplies and materials for making works of art and is complemented by child-sized easels and tables; Museum open Thursday & Friday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.; OMFA, 901 Frederica Street; 270-685-3181 or omfa.us.

Proceeds benefit RiverPark Center. 6 – 9 p.m.; RiverPark Center, 101 Daviess St.; $25 in advance, $30 at the door; riverparkcenter.org.

FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the library every Saturday morning for self-guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness; 10 a.m. — 12 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

OCTOBERFEST AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun section.

OCTOBER 6

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

OCOTBER 4

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT All must wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2 are free unless they are the only child, adults always free; 5 – 10 p.m.; 685-1255 or www.ubouncepartyhouse.com.

OCTOBER 2

FREE HIGHWAY 60 YARD SALE See event description on October 1.

25TH ANNUAL FARM FESTIVAL See event description on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

OCTOBER 5

JACOB HELWIG BENEFIT RALLY Yellow Creek Baptist Church has organized a benefit prayer and worship rally for local youth Jacob Helwig; 6 – 8 p.m.; Yellow Creek Baptist Church, 5741 Hwy 144; check out Facebook for more information.

on October 1.

OWENSBORO GYMNAST OPEN GYM; 3239 Alvey Park Drive East; $7

FREE HAWK TALKS Explore the world of hawks every Sunday afternoon

per child, $1 discount for siblings; 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.; find more information on Facebook.

at Yellow Creek Park Nature Center and the West Kentucky Raptor Center; 5710 Highway 144; http://www.daviesscountyparks.com.

OCTOBERFEST AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event

OCTOBER 7

VOICES OF ELMWOOD See event description on October 1.

description in Family Fun section.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

OCTOBER 3

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE See event description on October 4.

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time for

30 OWENSBORO PARENT

. October 2011

on October 1.

www.OwensboroParent.com

OCTOBER 8

FREE ART IN THE PARK As part of the Grand Opening of River Front Crossing, both children and adults can enter this sidewalk chalk contest. 60 squares available; 4 - 9p.m.; studioslant.com.

MOMS NIGHT OUT Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Evansville shopping trip; See Owensboro Christian Church MOPS Facebook page for more information.

VOICES OF ELMWOOD See event description on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! See event description on October 1.

OWENSBORO RIVER CITY KENNEL CLUB ALL-BREED DOG SHOW An annual all-breed dog show; The Hines Center, 1 Wellness Drive; $5 parking fee per day; www.orckc.com.

THE GREAT PUMPKIN FEST AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun section.

OCTOBER 9

THE AMAZING KRESKIN For more then 50 years Kreskin has been baffling his audiences with his accurate predictions, his mentalist effects, and for a large percentage of his audience, telling them things about themselves that only they, a close friend, or their family would know! He does read minds! 7 p.m.; RiverPark Center, 101 Daviess St.; tickets $17.50; riverparkcenter.org.

OWENSBORO RIVER CITY KENNEL CLUB ALL-BREED DOG SHOW See event description on October 8.

www.OwensboroParent.com

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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THE GREAT PUMPKIN FEST AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun section.

OCTOBER 10

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

OCTOBER 11

FREE PUMPKIN DECORATING EXTRAVAGANZA Drop in to decorate a pumpkin from the Library’s Pumpkin Patch. For kids ages 12 and younger; 5 – 7 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library Program Room; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE See event description on October 4.

OCTOBER 12

FREE PUMPKIN DECORATING EXTRAVAGANZA See event description on October 11.

OWENSBORO GYMNAST OPEN GYM See event description on October 5.

OCTOBER 13

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

OCTOBER 14

BOO FEST Calling all ghouls, goblins, witches and warlocks! Enjoy pumpkin painting, games, crafts and lunch. Enter the costume, golf cart and campsite decorating contests. Join in on the non-scary, kid-friendly hay ride, the trickor-treat event from campsite to campsite and the haunted trail; Diamond Lake Resort, 7301 Hobbs Road; www.diamondlakeresort.net.

THE MONSTERS ON THE OHIO TOURNAMENT Event for catfish anglers, clubs and organizations. Try to break the Kentucky state record of a 104 lb. catfish. Load up the car and bring the kids for door prizes, BBQ and watch the excitement of the weigh-in; English Park.

VOICES OF ELMWOOD See event description on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE See event description on October 4

OCTOBER 15

BOO FEST See event description on October 14.

THE MONSTERS ON THE OHIO TOURNAMENT See event description on October 14.

VOICES OF ELMWOOD See event description on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! See event description on October 1.

RIVER CITY FESTIVAL OF FILMS This inaugural, day-long festival will feature short films of any genre. Held in the former Dawahares store in Towne Square Mall; www.rivercityfestivaloffilms.com.

APPLE FEST AT REID’S ORCHARD See event description in Family Fun Section.

OLE’ CIDER DAYS FESTIVAL AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun section.

OCTOBER 16

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

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. October 2011

www.OwensboroParent.com

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

FREE HAWK TALKS See event description on October 2.

APPLE FEST AT REID’S ORCHARD See event description in Family Fun Section.

OLE’ CIDER DAYS FESTIVAL AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun section.

OCTOBER 17

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

OCTOBER 18

FREE LEGO BLOCK PARTY Lego free play for kids ages 6-12. Registration required! 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library Program Room,2020 Frederica St.; Please call 270-684-0211 to reserve a space, dcplibrary.org.

MOPS PLAY DATE Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) play date at Trunnell’s Family Fun Acre; 9 – 11 a.m.; Trunnell’s Family Farm, 9255 U.S. Hwy 43, Utica; See Owensboro Christian Church MOPS Facebook page for more information.

FREE LOVE AND LOGIC PARENTING CLASSES The Family Resource and Youth Services Center’s have been providing parenting classes for over 10 years to the community; 6 – 8 p.m.; Southern Oaks Elementary School; Contact Christina Dalton at (270) 852-7561 to register.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE See event description on October 4.

OCTOBER 19

OWENSBORO GYMNAST OPEN GYM See event description on October 5.

OCTOBER 20

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

www.OwensboroParent.com

October 2011 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

RIGHT TO LIFE ANNUAL FUNDRAISING BANQUET Please call to make reservation. Featured speaker, Abby Johnson; 6 p.m.; Hines Center, 1 Wellness Drive; (270) 685-4922.

on October 1.

FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! See event description on October 1.

A-MAIZE-ING MAZE QUEST FEST AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun section.

OCTOBER 21

BOO FEST See event description on October 14.

HAMLET The Prince of Denmark has a problem: how to avenge his father’s murder when the villain is his uncle – and married to his mother.

Shakespeare’s grandest tale absolutely bristles with royal intrigue, secret plots, wry comedy, duels, double deals, and dramatic deaths; Friday & Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Sunday, 2 p.m.; TWO Opryhouse; Adults $15, students: $10; theatreworkshop.org.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

RENEW An open event for any single mother in the area. Event will feature free VIP passes for local service, such as oil changes and yard work, day spa experiences, haircuts and styles, a financial seminar, free useful gifts and door prizes and scholarships for moms and kids; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Owensboro Christian Church.

OCTOBER 23

HAMLET See event description on October 21.

on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE See event description on October 4.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

OCTOBER 22

on October 1.

GHOST AND GOBLINS Play Day; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Moreland Park.

SNAP GOLF SCRAMBLE Help Support Special Needs Assistance Program (SNAP), a non-profit whose mission is to support individuals with intellectual disabilities through the funding of grants for specialized structured programs, supplies, equipment, and/or resources to enhance their quality of life. Must register by October 15.; Check-in 7 a.m., scramble 7:30 a.m.; Panther Creek Park; four-man team, $200; aowen@dcps.org.

BOO FEST See event description on October 14.

HAMLET See event description on October 21.

34 OWENSBORO PARENT

. October 2011

FREE HAWK TALKS See event description on October 2.

OCTOBER 24

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

OCTOBER 25

FREE FAMILY FUN NIGHT CREEPY Crafts to thrill and chill this Halloween Season. For kids ages 6-12; 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library Program Room, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

www.OwensboroParent.com

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE See event description on October 4.

GHOST AND GOBLINS TRAIL OF TREATS 6 - 8:30 p.m.; Moreland Park.

OCTOBER 26

FREE SUNDOWN PAJAMA STORYTIME: SPOOKY STORIES Come dressed in your favorite PJs to hear spine-tingling Halloween tales. This program will be interpreted in sign language. For kids ages 6-12; 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library Program Room, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

OCTOBER 27

THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS Sensational Chinese acrobatics, balancing feats, martial arts displays and much more;7 p.m.; RiverPark Center, 101 Daviess St.; Adults $12.50, students 2-12 $7.50; riverparkcenter.org.

LEGENDARY OCTOBERFEST Legendary Entertainment brings another great Country line-up to the Owensboro Sportscenter. Performers include Craig Morgan, Jaclyn Graves, Frankie Ballard, LoCash Cowboys, and Craig Campbell; Doors open at 4 p.m. and the concert will begin at 5 p.m.; Owensboro Sportscenter; Tickets can be purchased through the website; For more information, contact 270-313-8286.

THE AMOROUS FLEA MUSICAL Comedy by Back Alley Musicals. 6 p.m. Oct. 28; 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29; 2 p.m. Oct. 30; Pangea Theatre, 1320 Carter Road.

OCTOBER 29

BOO FEST See event description on October 14.

HAMLET See event description on October 21.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

on October 1.

on October 1.

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! See event description on October 1.

OCTOBER 28

THE AMOROUS FLEA See event description on October 28.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT; 6 - 8 p.m.; Sts. Joseph and Paul Catholic Church.

BOO FEST See event description on October 14.

HAMLET See event description on October 21.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

BLUEGRASS ROOTS: ART FROM THE HEART See event description

FALL SQUASH-N-PUMPKIN GOBBLE AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun Section.

OCTOBER 30

HAMLET See event description on October 21.

FREE ARTLAND See event description on October 1.

on October 1.

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BLUEGRASS ROOTS: Art from the Heart See event description on October 1.

FREE HAWK TALKS See event description on October 2.

FALL SQUASH-N-PUMPKIN GOBBLE AT TRUNNELL’S FARM MARKET See event description in Family Fun Section.

OCTOBER 31

FREE STORYTIME See event description on October 3.

TOWNE SQUARE MALL TRICK-OR-TREATING; 5 - 7

Family Getaway

French Lick West Baden, Indiana Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort Enjoy 40,000 square feet of water park fun! Experience tropical luxury in a family friendly environment. 154, smoke free and pet free, family friendly rooms and suites are waiting. No weather worries-- the water park is enclosed in a beautiful glass structure. Come visit one of the few retractable roof water parks in the world.

French Lick Scenic Railway

Christian Church.

Journey through 20 miles of the Hoosier National Forest, limestone cuts and venture through the 2,200 ft. Burton tunnel. This 10-mile route provides breathtaking views of the rolling, forested hillsides in their seasonal beauty.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT; Inflatables, food, games and music;

French Lick West Baden Indoor Karting

p.m.; Towne Square Mall.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT; 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.; Owensboro

5 - 8 p.m.; Lewis Lane Baptist Church.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT; Inflatables and food; 5 - 8 p.m.; Wesleyan Heights Church.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT AND FALL FESTIVAL; Chili supper with games for kids and inflatables; 5 p.m., Trunk-or-Treating will start at 7:30 p.m.; Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.

Experience the thrill of racing on their 1,250 ft. indoor road course. Be sure to check out the fun arcade for kids too!

French Lick West Baden Museum An engaging visitor experience showcasing the area’s unique heritage and current lifestyle through a series of interactive information and interpretive exhibits.

The Stables at French Lick Venture into the countryside on an exciting trail ride or simply sit back and relax as a horse-drawn carriage leads you on a tour of the resort grounds. Pony and hayrides also available.

French Lick Resort Hiking & Biking Trails French Lick Resort has over 12 miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking with historical and architectural points of interest along the way.

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{ curtain call }

the shangri-la

chinese acrobats ®

RiverPark Center along with Independence Bank, will host the THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS® This attraction has been called “incredible,” “breathtaking,” “stunning,” and “quite unbelievable,” to quote just a few of the critics. THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS® have taken the world by storm and continue to do so on this, their 32nd North American Theatre Tour. THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS® will appear at RiverPark Center on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 7:00pm CST.

The entertainment provided by these gifted performers appeals to all ages, from young children to grandparents. Most important, there is no language barrier and everyone attending a performance

by THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS® will thrill to their incredible feats. So, audiences should prepare to sit back, relax and be transported by these incredible performers to the mystical land of “Shangri-La,” where anything is possible … and illusion becomes reality!

OP

Visit RiverParkCenter.org to get your tickets now to THE SHANGRI-LA CHINESE ACROBATS ®

Performing at the RiverPark Center on October 27, 2011

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