Owensboro Parent - July / August 2016

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july // august 2016 FAMILY LIFE

happy birthday owensboro parent [10] parental control [12] CO MMUNIT Y

birthday photos from facebook [14] holiday world celebrates 70th birthday [22] teaming for a cure [24] owensboro parent kids triathlon [28] BIRTHDAY GUIDE

sleepover survival guide [32] it’s all about the theme [34] birthday on a budget [37]

[40] let’s plan a healthy party!

[41] dog day summer fun [43] giving is better

[12]

BACK TO SCHOO L

[46] back to school dates [51] back to life, back to reality [54] college readiness DISCOVE R

[62] ear infections fact & fiction [64] kids eat free list [66] july/august calendar

[37]

[24]

[14]

[46]

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[22]

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july // august 2016

L to R: Ethan, Jason, Ella, Levi, Natalie, and Lydia Tanner.

Photo by Captured Moments

from the publisher

A

s much as we enjoy raising our kids, I’m sure every parent can relate to the sinking feeling that can accompany our kids’ milestones. Where has the time gone? Should our babies really be growing up at this fast pace? We experience this roller coaster of emotions at regular intervals but it never seems to get much easier.

My family just spent this weekend celebrating our youngest daughter’s 4th birthday complete with swimming, water slide, and a visit from the Little Mermaid herself. It’s another milestone that snuck up on me. How can this little baby be 4 already? She doesn’t need me to hold her up in the pool anymore. Now I’m just trying to keep her safe as she does front flips down the inflatable water slide.

And here we are, celebrating Owensboro Parent’s 5th birthday. A milestone from a different “baby” of sorts. And it all started after one of the most difficult times in my family’s life. Not many people know this but our oldest daughter (and cover model!) had open heart surgery when she was 2. She had a large hole in her heart and a valve that didn’t form correctly. Our only option was to get them patched and the valve repaired. I could write a book about the whole experience. I wrote this the day after surgery: “Our day started around 3 a.m. when Ella got her last drink of water. She was in a good mood all night and didn’t want to sleep much. At 5 a.m., the alarm went off and we started getting ready.

Ella wanted to jump on the bed, so we did that for a while. We got to Vanderbilt around 6:15 a.m. Natalie changed her from her pajamas into a hospital outfit. She is so small the pants kept falling off. One at a time family members came

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Publisher/Creative Director Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com Editor Ashley Sorce ashley@owensboroparent.com

5 years 43 issues

Advertising Sales Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com

2,251 pages

Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com

6 new staff members from 6 babies among our staff to 18

from 36 pages in our first issue to 76 pages back to give her a little love and wish her the best.

It was about 7:45 a.m. when the anesthesiologist and his team arrived to start giving Ella sedatives.

At 10 after 8 she was walking away with the nurses and my stomach just dropped at the sight of her leaving.”

I can’t read that without feeling a wave of emotions. I wish I could jump back and tell myself “Hey, it’s going to be ok. She’s 10 now.

She’s healthy, beautiful, still sings like an angel and is a great big sister to her three siblings.” I wish I could tell Natalie, “I’ve seen the other side and she’s perfectly fine. Don’t cry, don’t worry so much, she’s perfectly healthy and completely spoiled!”

It is amazing to see how God used that experience and all the things that have come from it. This magazine is one of them. During each of our trips to Nashville, we’d pick up Nashville Parent Magazine. We loved it and knew that Owensboro would love it too. I’d never designed a magazine before but I knew if I could get a great team, we could do it and do it well. We wanted something that we would be proud of and that Owensboro could be proud of. There are so many people that I couldn’t do this without – from our team (the most talented people I know), our advertisers (who have become our friends) and most importantly, all of you, our faithful readers.

Thank you.

So here’s to 5, 10, even 20 more. And even though I may never get used to that sinking feeling, I’m learning to enjoy the ride.

Graphic Design Taylor West Layout & Graphic Design Andrea Roberson Cover Photo Lucas Wiman Photography David Grinnell Interns Shelby Miller Jonathan Taylor Contributors Christina Dalton Heather Haynes Danny May Dr. Shanna McGinnis Taryn Rice Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt Contact Information Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5416 www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/owensboroparent Subscribe Delivery of Owensboro Parent is available by visiting owensboroparent.com/subscribe 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 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.

TANNER PUBLISHING CO. www.OwensboroParent.com

www.OwensboroParent.com

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family life

{ by: lora wimsatt }

I

t has been an honor and privilege to contribute articles

When this publication first arrived on the scene, I didn’t

to this positive and uplifting publication since the

know much about it but knew it had the potential for

very beginning. Five years ago, when I was first invited

great things. Boy, was I right about that! Issue after issue,

to participate, I hesitated for just a moment. My four

Owensboro Parent is filled with interesting articles,

children are all grown; my experience as a parent was no

features about local people and events, and helpful

longer of interest to this new magazine’s target audience.

information for parents in our community.

But then I brightened, realizing that I had recently

In addition to the quality articles and photographs

welcomed my first grandchild to the family, with another

provided by members of the staff, many other writers have

on the way, and happily accepted the invitation, hopeful

contributed regular features on various areas of expertise;

that my experiences as a new grandmother would provide

others have shared only one or two specialty articles –

relevant insight for readers.

emphasis on the “special.”

My grandgirls were only babies then, small and cute,

We’re all growing together, and getting better all the

with a world of possibilities ahead of them, but just

time.

beginning to demonstrate hints of their own personalities

as the unique individuals they would grow to be.

will start school this fall, and have been joined by two

That’s a pretty fair analogy for Owensboro Parent.

grandboys, one age 18 months and the other still brand

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I have four grandchildren now. Those two grandgirls

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new and fresh at 5 months old.

cyber. I shudder to even think about some of the problems

Reading the articles each month and looking at the

facing children (and parents) today, thanks to “advances”

advertisements in Owensboro Parent every month –

in technology.

not to mention seeing my grandkids in real life and the

experiences my children have in raising them – I realize a

it used to be. In so many ways, it’s better.

lot has changed since I was a young mom.

made our lives better is Owensboro Parent magazine.

My kids are horrified to hear that they weren’t secured

in safety-tested car seats when we traveled. I just tucked them in the seat beside me and took off.

There were no computers, no video games, no apps.

Nintendo came along at some point and introduced the Mario Brothers as members of the family, but at least they never sat at the dinner table with us.

In that not-so-long-ago world, there were no cell phones, either; when my kids called their friends, they had to do so on the kitchen phone, and no matter how far they

But I don’t mean to imply that the world is worse than And right here in our home town, one thing that has

Along with the stories about couponing, dealing with food allergies, helping with homework and coping with colic, we’ve come together as a community over these pages.

We’ve shared triumphs and tragedies; I still remember

articles about Brandon Mullins, Team Karlie, Thumbs Up for Lane and Kevin Olusola. The events calendar invites everyone to participate in family-friendly, fun and often free activities.

So Happy Birthday, Owensboro Parent! It may be your

anniversary, but you’ve given the gift to all of us.

OP

stretched the cord, they were never beyond the hearing of parents (or nosy siblings).

Cyberbullying wasn’t an issue because there was no

www.OwensboroParent.com

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

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family life

{ Q&A with christina dalton,

M S S W, C S W

parental

control Q: I am a stay at home Mom. I have a son that will be starting kindergarten in August. I did not send him to preschool because I think kids go to school long enough and I wanted that time to be with me. Are there things that I need to be doing other than the basics to get him ready for school?

I want it to be a smooth transition.

}

A: This is a great question.

what to do and it’s our fault that we

Kindergarten Readiness is at the

do it. I think I’ve waited too late.

forefront of the education process right now. It is something that you

A: First rule to always remember:

are probably hearing more and

it’s never too late.

more about. You can see a huge

is reading this can relate to this

difference in children that start

question and if they don’t then they

school with at least a basic set of

are lying to themselves…LOL!

knowledge and how quickly their

There are always times when we

academic levels grow in school. You

give in too easy, we let them stay

can always be working on numbers,

up too late and before we know it

colors,

letter

recognition

and

sounds. I think it is also important to work on socialization skills. You don’t want school to be the first time your child is interacting with other children. You want them to be able to share, play well with others and be aware of general social norms. I find that it is a fun game to “play school” at home. Kids love doing this and you can teach them some of the rules at the same time.

This will also give them an idea of what to expect. Just the fact that you are wanting to know what else you can do to better prepare him is a sign that your son will do great in

Anyone that

they are the boss of us. It happens.

Has your child ever said, “You’re not the boss of me!” Welcome to parenthood. I have seen instances where I think it has gone on too long and it could be classified as a lost cause but there’s always hope. You need to remember that you cannot control your child’s behavior. It’s true. The only thing we can control is ourselves. And let’s face it, that’s pretty darn hard to do on any given day. My recommendation for you is to change YOUR behavior. Change YOUR response to that child. When the child wants you to play a game,

school. He already has a fantastic

go outside, or make cookies you say,

support system. Best of luck in the

“I’m sorry…I only do those nice things for children who are sweet

fall.

and kind to the people around

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Q: What can I do with a child

them.” Will this make your home

that will not do anything I say,

miserable? Yes! Will it make your

ever? I have four children,

home a nicer place to live in the

but this one is going to get

future? Yes! Just give it a try. And

the best of me. He is 6 years

really think about that statement.

old and he bosses me around

The only thing you can control is

daily. He tells everyone

YOU! You got this….Good luck!

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Q: I’m recently divorced and I am

at the moment. This is a huge change

on the what is important and that would

sharing custody of my two daughters

for everyone involved. My advice would

be the well-being and safety of the girls.

with my ex-husband. My question is

be to try and sit down and talk to your

I would think that the situation would

what advice do you have for someone in

ex-husband. This may not be an option

improve over time, but in some cases

my situation to get along with the father

for you right now, but if possible come

it might not and then you just have to

of my children when he is constantly

to an agreement/arrangement that is

learn how to cope and do the best you

putting me down to my girls and saying

best for the girls. Try to discuss what

can. This is a new situation for you too

things that are not true? My girls are 10

the expectations are going to be on his

and it must be very frustrating. Give

and 8 and they know what is going on

end and your end. If this is not a viable

yourself time to adjust as well. I don’t

and it is making life miserable.

option, then you may have to take it

think that anyone comes ahead when

down several notches and try to explain

the other person is trashing the other

A: This is a tough one to tackle, but it

to your girls what is going on at a level

parent. Your children are a part of both

can be done. Time is going to be your

that they can relate to and understand.

of you and when we criticize the other

greatest asset. I’m not sure how long

You can explain to them that sometimes

you have been divorced, but you did

when people are going through such a

say recently and it is going to take time.

difficult time that they may say things

Feelings and emotions are probably

that are not necessarily true and that

still very much involved and volatile

their emotions are running high. Focus

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parent, the child could think that it reflects upon them. You will get through this and be stronger in the end.

OP

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

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photos from facebook

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photos from facebook

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photos from facebook

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community

As

holiday world

celebrates

70th birthday { by: jason tanner }

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soon as we walked through the entrance of Holiday World, we were greeted by Safari Sam, Holidog and George the Eagle - the perfect photo opp for our kids. I grabbed my camera and pressed the shutter button. Nothing. Dead battery? Nope, no battery. Which meant I must have left it at our cabin that we just checked out of at Lake Rudolph Campground.

That realization could have been a nightmare that ruined our whole morning. I sent my family ahead wondering how much time this oversight would cost me. But thanks to a very nice tram driver who took me directly back to the campground, and another nice employee at Lake Rudolph who went way aboveand-beyond by taking me all the way back to our cabin on her golf cart, and then back to the shuttle, I was back at the front gate with my family in a matter of minutes.

That little incident at the front gate made me think about those little extra details a lot on this trip. Here’s what else I noticed:

ALL THE FREE STUFF Many of us have grown up enjoying all that Holiday World has to offer and so we may not really think about all the little things Holiday World staff does in order to make our experience memorable. We all know about the free parking, free sunscreen, and free soft drinks. But how important is that? At other theme parks of the same caliber, you could find yourself paying $10+ www.OwensboroParent.com

for parking, bringing your own sunscreen, and paying at least $5 per drink.

Your visit is much more enjoyable when you don’t have to worry about those extras.

The free fireworks show every Friday night (from June 17-July 29) are also a nice bonus. And we used the free shuttle service back and forth from Lake Rudolph Campground, but you’ll hear more about that later.

Another freebie I highly recommend is getting height wristbands at the front of the park. We got our kids measured once and they each got a wristband according to their height. That way they don’t have to be measured by each ride attendant. Plus, the wristbands had our cell phone numbers on them, in case we ever got separated.

AT T E N T I O N T O D E TA I L Every year there’s something new at Holiday World. This year, to celebrate their 70th anniversary season, the staff at Holiday World has come up with some great ideas to feature in the park.

Through the main entrance of the park, we saw the 70th Birthday Plaza with nostalgic photos, maps, and brochures from past seasons and a Holiday World Mosaic, which uses crowd-sourced images that were submitted by customers and fans. (They also brought back the Freedom Train, an original ride from former Santa Claus Land!)

Even the concession stands carry the theme with Birthday Cake Fudge, Birthday Cake Sundaes, Birthday Confetti Cake Flurries, and Birthday Cake Ice Cream!

Speaking of food, for those with food allergies, concession stands and cafeterias offer allergen-friendly and gluten-free menu items.

Next Day Tickets If you’re making a weekend out of it, like we did, consider purchasing a next day ticket for $30.

INCLUDE LAKE RUDOLPH To rest up for our long days at Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari, we stayed in a family cabin (actually, it was a “Holiday Cottage”) at Lake Rudolph. These cabins, which can be rented like a hotel room, sleep 5-7 people and have fully furnished kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms, as well as two flat screen TV’s, AC/Heat, and a screened-in porch. The campground also has 20 standard RV’s that can be rented and a traditional campground for tent camping or RV’s.

Throughout the summer, Lake Rudolph offers free family movie nights, arts and crafts, a swimming pool, and Santa’s Splash Park. Last year they added a new Camp Store, Game Room, mini-golf course, and playground!

As a father, I have learned that it’s the small things that make a huge difference - little things like the friendly Lake Rudolph employees who helped me retrieve my camera battery. Which is exactly why I take my family to Holiday World every year. I went as a kid, and now I take my kids. All four of them.

OP

OTHER INSIDE TIPS: Here are some other things that made our trip more convenient and enjoyable: Cabana Rentals For an additional fee, we rented Cabanas in Splashin’ Safari that came with a locking cabinet, mini-fridge stocked with bottles of water, table and chairs, two chaise lounges and a ceiling fan. It was worth every penny for us, especially this year with a 3-month-old.

Double Stroller and Wagon Rentals Strollers and wagons can be rented at the entrance to the park.

The wagon came in very handy; by the end of the day, we had that thing loaded down! www.OwensboroParent.com

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community

H

{ by: danny may }

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ighland Elementary students Brennan Faught, 9, and Macy Roberts, 8, have a lot in common. They’re both in the same grade. They both are very active kids. And they both have Type 1 Diabetes.

Managing Brennan and Macy’s insulin levels has become a team effort between parents and school staff.

Thankfully, an app called Dexcom CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) makes tracking glucose levels much easier for the Faughts, the Roberts, and the Highland Elementary “family” as well.

Both sets of parents, along with Highland Principal, Carrie Munsey, and school nurse, Tonya Ratliff, have downloaded the app on their phones, which provides accurate, real-time readings updated

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every five minutes. If Brennan or Macy’s glucose levels spike too high or drop too low, their phones are notified.

“We know immediately,” Ms. Munsey said.

Monitoring has become a way of life for Faught and Roberts. Macy averages about seven shots a day. Brennan has a pump system on his hip instead of shots. The two visit Ms. Ratliff ’s nurse station to test three times during the day, and more if needed.

Brennan is a little more experienced; July marks the threeyear mark for him. Macy is fairly new at it. She’s been treating her diabetes for about six months.

“It’s amazing how well they know their own bodies,” Ms. Ratliff said, as Macy and Brennan crowded around her desk to begin their routines on a May afternoon just before lunch. “They do a good job with it. They have become very responsible at a young age.” The three look completely comfortable and confident, chatting with each other as they test, check numbers, and deal with shots and pumps. This is their new normal.

“I think at first Brennan felt very isolated,” recalled Brennan’s mother, Liz Faught. “When you’re diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, or anything like that, you go through all the stages of grief. Acceptance. Learning to live with the challenge. But now, with Macy, he knows he’s not the only one.

His attitude toward it has changed.”

The two have become the best of friends, says Ratliff. “They eat lunch together. They come to my office and test at the same time. They’re like a little team.” Their parents say they are a comfort to each other. And because there are now two students with juvenile diabetes in the school, it’s just become a part of the school culture, which Macy’s mother, Molly Roberts, says helps Macy feel less self-conscious about it.

“We had a hard time with it at first, facing the realization that this is forever,” Molly admitted. But then the Roberts decided that although they may not be able to make it go away, they could certainly do something about it. “So we promised to raise money and do everything we can to help find a cure.”

That’s where Highland comes in.

The school rallied around Macy and Brennan to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

The duo brainstormed team names, decided on “Macy’s Squad” and “Brennan’s Dojang”, and began selling t-shirts to their team members.

Highland got behind their efforts to help them meet their goal. May 6 was “Caps for a Cure” day, where students were invited to wear their favorite hat to school. For a $1 donation, students earned a chance to win Holiday World tickets, t-shirts, Wal-Mart gift cards, and lokai bracelets. Staff could www.OwensboroParent.com

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also donate $15 for a “dress down day” until the end of the school year.

And the hallways were full of blue shirts.

Altogether, HES students and staff raised over $1,200 for JDRF, which Macy and Brennan announced at a school-wide pep rally.

Their original goal was to raise $5,000 for JDRF. By the beginning of May they had already surpassed that goal so they bumped it up to $10,000, Macy’s dad, Gavin Roberts, explained.

H O L I D AY W O R L D O N E W A L K With the boost from Highland’s contribution, Brennan’s Dojang and Macy’s Squad gathered their troops to participate in Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari’s 11th annual “JDRF One Walk,” which was held on May 15, 2016.

This year’s event raised more than $350,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Since the park began hosting the event in 2006, Holiday World has helped raise $3.3 million for JDRF. According to JDRF.org, Brennan’s Dojang & Macy’s Squad collected $10,205.02 for One Walk, exceeding their pledged goal by over $200.

By all accounts, the team is still building momentum and continues to have an impact. This summer, Brennan is attending Camp Courageous, a camp that specializes in special medical diagnoses. Liz is hosting a group for parents and kids at her house. Molly and Gavin are talking with JDRF about the According to JDRF, Type 1 diabetes causes a person’s possibility of one day having a chapter here in Owensboro, and body to stop producing insulin, a hormone that pro- Macy has applied to be a JDRF ambassador. vides energy to the body. Approximately 200,000 children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with T1D, Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner Publishing Co. and a regular contributor which can strike people of any age. The foundation’s to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very goal is to “turn Type One into Type None.” active boys, 6 and 8.

OP

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community

owensboro parent

kids triathlon W

e were so excited to announce in our last issue that Owensboro Parent Magazine and the Owensboro Family YMCA are pairing up along with the support of Independence Bank to bring a Kids Triathlon to Owensboro!

There is a strong need in the community for family healthy activities. What better way to be active than involving the entire family in triathlon training?!

Swimming, biking and running are three activities that we all grew up participating in, and we want to bring back the fun! Whether this is your child’s first triathlon or 20th, they will have a great time competing or just enjoying the race experience.

We will have music, food, shirts and medals for all participants. This race will NOT be chip timed, but we will have a running clock so participants know their personal time.

HERE IS WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT FOR THE DAY

Race day registration will open at 7:15 a.m. and close at 9:15 a.m. at the family YMCA registration office (900 Kentucky Parkway Owensboro, KY 42301).

Kids will report by their age group times (see below) to the pool at the Family YMCA. • 11-14 years old: 8 a.m.

• 7-10 years old: 8:45 a.m.

• 4-6 years old: 9:30 a.m.

If there are more kids registered than the amount of pool lanes we have, we will have wave starts within the age group. For instance, if we have 5 lanes and 15 participants in the age group, we will have 3 waves separated by 2-minute intervals. Distances for the swim vary with age group: • Ages 4-6: Swim 25 yards (one length of the pool) 28 OWENSBORO PARENT

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• Ages 7-10: Swim 75 yards (3 lengths of the pool) • Ages 11-14: Swim 125 yards (5 lengths of the pool) Once the swim is completed, participants will head towards the bike transition area that will be set up on the front lawn of the YMCA. Participants will exit the pool emergency doors. Ryan Clark from the cycling department at Legends will be on site prior to the race to conduct safety checks on the bikes.

Participants will take their bike on their designated course, with route distances varying with age group: • Ages 4-6: Bike .46 miles • Ages 7-10: Bike 2.34 miles (1.17 loop x 2) • Ages 11-14: Bike 3.42 Miles (1.71 loop x 2) Once participants have completed the bike ride, they will rack their bike in the transition area and head out for the run. Distance varies with age group: • Ages 4-6: Run .46 miles • Ages 7-10: Run 1.17 miles • Ages 11-14: Run 1.71 miles Once finished with the run, participants will have completed their triathlon! After all that hard work, your kids will love the music, food vendors, and fun-filled afternoon!

If there is a need to cancel due to inclement weather, we will reschedule for July 23. Same times and rates apply.

QUESTIONS FROM PARENTS • What if my child can’t swim without some type of floatation device? No big deal! Bring your life jacket, arm floaties, Puddle Jumper, whatever your child will feel most comfortable in! If you don’t have any of these, the YMCA will provide kick boards at the event.

Volunteers will be in the pool.

• What special gear will my child need? Just a helmet and bicycle. A helmet is mandatory for the event. www.OwensboroParent.com

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• What if my child is still using training wheels? No problem! Parents can also run or ride along side their child. We encourage you to have fun as a family!

• Will my child change clothes after swimming? No, there is no need to change clothes. Children will get out of the pool and go right out to their bike, put on their shoes and take off for the ride portion of the event.

• What if my child is not strong in a particular portion (bike, swim, run)? This race is for everyone! We just want families to come out, make it to the finish line and we want to cheer you on along the way. It is all about having fun!

• What if I have children in different age ranges? We plan on running one group at a time. That way it will be easier for parents in that situation.

GREEN RIVER KIDS TRI GROUP

We hope that your kids not only have fun participating in the triathlon, but also find a new love for being active! Jan Ward and Karen Hobelman saw a need for kids to be able to participate in a sport where everyone is welcome, leading them to start a triathlon team for kids in the Owensboro area in 2014. Triathlons are great, Jan says, because there are not a finite number of players, so any child, at any level can participate.

“Obesity rates for children and adults continue to increase every year,” Jan said. “Team sports aren’t for everyone. So, we decided to introduce kids to a sport we both enjoy. Our main goal has been to develop children in a non-threatening way. We try to teach them basic skills of swimming, biking and running to keep them safe and also help them to learn how to have fun while getting more physically fit.”

As a part of the group, kids are not encouraged to try to run long, bike long or swim long. The goal is to learn how to build slowly and reduce the risk of injury, ultimately teaching kids to push themselves based on their abilities, not the person beside them.

“Having a local triathlon is awesome for these kids,” Jan said. “It gives them a chance to race with friends and have more family watching. Competing in a race gives them a sense of pride unlike team sports. They know they had to do the work to get across the finish line. There will be so many proud, smiling kids crossing that finish line!”

Jan says for our community to offer this, is a true blessing. “We have a very active adult community who seem to be looking to get their kids active,” Jan said. “Triathlon is a lifelong sport to be enjoyed for a variety of reasons and learning the ins and out at a young age will help grow the sport.”

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Here are some tips from Jan, who says safety is key.

Children need basic swim skills to be safe. If a child cannot swim, make sure they have proper safety equipment the day of the race.

Also, kids should wear helmets any time they ride a bike. (For this event, a helmet is mandatory.) Many accidents happen at slow speeds but end in tragedy. Head injuries can change a child forever if they survive. Don’t risk it!

In order to get ready for the race... parents should have kids participate in swimming, biking and running at least once a week. Sessions can be as short as 15-20 minutes.

Teach them how to go slow enough to keep their breathing controlled. We talk a lot about “all day effort.” They should be able to talk as they run and bike.

Bicycle handling skills get better with more time spent on the bike. They need to learn how to start and stop quickly to avoid wrecks. There are some basic rules to follow. Stay on the right side of the road. When you go to pass someone, let them know you are there by saying “on the left.” Some simple things that help others know what to expect.

When it comes to the run, they need to make sure they don’t sprint the first part. Easing into the run can allow them to run the whole way. One of our kids says, “go out like a pig, finish like a cheetah.” Words to live by!

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

“When the triathlon was first presented to Independence Bank, we knew right away that it was a great opportunity for us to partner with Owensboro Parent and promote healthy activities for our Little Patriots and children and parents in the community all while having some fun!” said Bridget Reid, Marketing Director for Independence Bank.

Last year, Independence Bank launched the Little Patriots Savings Club. It’s more than your typical savings account. It teaches financial literacy, educating young savers about saving wisely, responsible spending habits, investing and giving back to the community.

Throughout the year, Little Patriots are invited to be a part of Independence Bank events and activities that come with special privileges at events the bank puts on or sponsors. For example, all Independence Bank Little Patriots, can participate in the Owensboro Parent Kids Triathlon for FREE! It’s a way we can say thank you and encourage healthy physical and financial habits.

We would also like to thank Legends, Gateway Urgent Care, Owensboro Family YMCA, Kidstop Children’s Boutique and StrideRite Bootery, and Academy Sports and Outdoors for partnering with us on this event!

OP

www.OwensboroParent.com

www.OwensboroParent.com

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sleepover survival guide { by: ashley sorce }

As

your child grows older, a fun idea for a birthday party is a sleepover with his or her friends. Now,

financially, this is a great idea. No elaborate party theme, invitations, decorations, or menu. But it can be downright intimidating to have other people’s children to entertain, feed, put to bed (good luck with that), and wake up to the next morning. Here are some things to think about, tips to help you survive and for the kids to have fun.

A good rule of thumb is to invite those children whose

families you know. Many parents today are leery about sending their children to sleepover parties if they don’t know the family. In order to avoid inevitable disappointment due to declined invitations, put a message on the invitation such as, “Party continues after 8 p.m. for those who would like to sleep over.” This will enable guests to decline the sleepover part, but to join the festivities and celebrate with

THE MAGIC NUMBER

your child early in the evening.

First, decide if this will be a one-on-one sleepover or a team event. If this is your child’s first sleepover, you may start with just one guest. Later, advance to three friends, which is plenty tough. Especially brave parents can slowly work their way up to eight to ten children. Aim for an even number of participants for team activities and to prevent the “odd kid

CONSIDER YOUNGER SIBLINGS Rent special movies for siblings or maybe ask grandparents to take them on an outing for a portion of the big night. Don’t think of having your spouse take them out

out” syndrome. Ideally, sleepover guests will be comfortable

-- you will need all hands on deck at home! Maybe let the

staying away from home overnight, which may occur as early

younger sibling have a “sleepover” with mom and dad to

as age 6 but more commonly around age 8 or 9.

take their mind off not being a part of the real sleepover.

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birthday guide

ASSEMBLE PROVISIONS

forget the video camera so they can watch themselves the

Junk food is an expected staple of all sleepovers. TIP:

next morning!). If you are having a sleepover for boys

offer easy-to-vacuum-up foods like popcorn, chips, and

and you are worried about them spending too much time

pretzels. These salty treats can make the kids extra thirsty

in front of the computer or video games, schedule some

so have enough drinks on hand. Keep breakfast simple. group activities. Boys enjoy team activities. Organize a French toast or pancakes are easy to feed a large group. It’s mystery game or sports trivia game and break the kids up easy to prepare and keep warm, plus, you can make a large

into teams. Group activities, such as charades or bingo, are

quantity at a low cost. To spice things up, add chocolate

always a hit with both boys and girls.

chips or M&Ms to the pancakes. TIP: Use paper plates and utensils for easy clean up!

PREPARE YOUR HOME Find a place in your home that will be suitable for several kids to sleep in and play group games. This might be a playroom or any large space with sparse furnishings. Remove any breakable or valuable items.

This way you won’t become a nervous wreck if a pillow fight ensues after dinner. Keep in mind that your child’s

ESTABLISHING GROUND RULES Sleepovers are different from other parties hosted in your home in that your child’s guests know they won’t be picked up until the next day. This may give a sense of “no holds barred” to the kids. Tell the guests about all the great activities you have planned. Then give them a list of rules to follow. Make sure that they understand these are YOUR rules, not your child’s.

friends may not know their way around your house very well, especially in the middle of the night. Place night lights in bathrooms and hallways. It’s a good idea to stock up on a few extra supplies, too. Make sure you have extra toothbrushes, pillows and socks, in case one of the guests forgets his or her own.

MAKE A PLAN

HOMESICKNESS What’s a sleepover without some sort of crisis?

Homesickness is likely what you will face. It is best to call the child’s family right away. If you can hold down the fort, have your spouse drive the child home; it takes less time than waiting for the other parents to get there, and the distressed child will feel immediately reassured.

It’s imperative that you have a list of various activities

planned. If the weather permits, outdoor activities will wear your party goers out without stressing you out (a

GET THE INFO

Obtain cell and home phone numbers for every parent.

game of flashlight tag might settle them down). For

Inquire about guests’ potential food allergies or other

indoor activities, it is best to plan activities that will keep

health issues.

the kids relatively calm and focused. For girls, painting nails or trying out new hair styles always works. Fashion shows and karaoke are always crowd pleasers, too (Don’t

www.OwensboroParent.com

OP

Ashley is mom to Avery, almost 5, and Reed, just turned 1, a small business owner, and editor of Owensboro Parent, the best magazine around.

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birthday guide

it’s all about the

{ by: ashley sorce } Birthday parties have changed a lot since I was little. I can remember going to Skates Alive, the ice rink, or going to a friends house for some cake and a few games. Now that I have my own kids I have learned that birthdays are much different. There must be a theme, a very elaborate and well-executed theme to bring the whole party together. And I’m not going to lie, while it is stressful and can be expensive (see “Birthday on a Budget” on page 37 for money-saving tips), it is a lot of fun to create. Here are some ideas of unique party themes I have done for my kids or have seen created by friends and family.

LEMONADE For Avery’s first birthday, we struggled to find a theme. We really wanted it to be about something that she liked, but she was 12 months old, it’s not like she was giving us a lot of feedback. We had just introduced her to lemonade, which she went crazy over, and a theme was born. We decorated with pink and yellow and had plenty of lemonade. We had lemon and strawberry cupcakes decorated with lemon candy and Twizzlers to appear as straws.

RAINBOW For her second birthday, we had a rainbow theme party for my daughter’s birthday. She was really into colors, and couldn’t pick her favorite so we just had them all. It was super easy to pull off -- balloons and streamers in every color. The snacks were easy too – rainbow Goldfish (Avery’s favorite snack at the time) and colorful fruit and veggies. I only put a lot of effort into one thing, the balloons. I got every color (remembering my elementary school lesson of ROY G. BIV) and let them float at the ceiling with the strings hanging down over table. I then attached photos of Avery to the end of the strings so that guests could see them as they sat and snacked.

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LITTLE LUMBERJACK My friend Nikki created a Lumberjack theme for her son, Abel.

“Flannel up for some fun.” And that is exactly what everyone did. Guests wore flannel, including the birthday boy, whose lumberjack shirt matched the party colors of red and black. Decorations were simple, pinecones and small pine trees. The cake resembled a log with thick chocolate icing to resemble tree bark. Guests could also create their own trail mix to take home in a small burlap bag.

PANCAKES & PAJAMAS For her daughter, Addalyn’s, fourth birthday, Nikki had a party on a Saturday morning. Guests were told to wear their pajamas and come over to Addie’s house for pancakes. Nikki went with pink and gold for the party colors, but the best part was the pancakes – 72 of them to be exact! Who needs a cake when you have pancakes! And although this party was all pink, this theme could easily be switched up for a boy.

OP

Ashley is mom to Avery, almost 5, and Reed, just turned 1, a small business owner, and editor of Owensboro Parent, the best magazine around.

www.OwensboroParent.com

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birthday guide

birthday on a

budget { by: ashley sorce }

W

ith the popularity of Pinterest and those spedup food videos on Facebook that demonstrate

KEEP THE MENU SIMPLE

Don’t worry about creating an elaborate menu for your

a “simple” party recipe, parents these days are putting

child’s birthday party—their friends are likely to be just

a lot of pressure on themselves to throw the perfectly

as impressed with a few basic, fun items to munch on.

themed birthday party for their child. The invitations, the

For instance, if you’re having an outdoor party, simply

menu, the decorations all must be on theme and executed

throw some hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill and

flawlessly, which can add up quickly. But does your kid

whip up a few of your child’s favorite side dishes. When

really care about all of those things? No! So why not save

it comes to drinks, ditch the bottles of water and cans of

a little money this year and follow a few of these tips that

soda. Make lemonade or punch and serve in pitchers. For

will also save you time and a whole lot of stress? It’s our

a surefire way to cut back dramatically on your food bill,

gift to you!

consider hosting your kid’s party in the morning or after lunchtime in the afternoon. This way, you’ll only have to

SEND DIGITAL INVITES

supply snacks and cake instead of a full meal.

Sure, mailing out paper invitations can be a nice touch,

but they aren’t really necessary in today’s digital world.

STOCK UP AT DOLLAR & THRIFT STORES

If you’re on a tight budget, consider sending electronic

invites for your child’s party. Websites such as Evite and

items for your child’s birthday bash. The dollar store can

Paperless Post offer many free, colorful options to choose

be the best place to find cheap party decor like balloons

from. Or even design something that you can text to your

and streamers, plus gift bags to give out goodies. And once

guest list. They will thank you -- RSVP has never been

you establish a theme for the party, rummage through

easier!

your local thrift shop for hidden treasures. For example,

www.OwensboroParent.com

Head to your local dollar store for great savings on cute

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37

all the makings of a tea party could easily be found at a

dodgeball, freeze tag or even a scavenger hunt. Kids just

thrift store.

want to have fun, and fun can be pretty affordable. Last year we had a slip n’ slide birthday for my daughter. It

GO CHEAP ON GOODY BAGS

Don’t go out and waste your money on pricey toys

was a hit! We also went to a family party where the kids painted wood cut outs—affordable and fun!

and candies to fill up goody bags. Kids are wowed by the simplest things, so don’t overthink and overspend on

BAKE YOUR OWN CAKE

goody bags. Like the last tip, the dollar store can be a

Sure, going out and purchasing an expensive,

good one-stop-shop for all things goody bag. I also went

elaborately decorated cake may be eye-catching, but it

to a birthday party where they gave out a $5 gift card to

can kill a budget. Instead, consider purchasing cake mix,

an ice cream shop and the kids went crazy over it. Now

icing and sprinkles from the grocery store and whipping

this may cost a little bit more than the average goody bag,

up your own creation at home. You can even get the

but what extra you may spend on a gift card you make

birthday boy or girl involved in mixing the cake batter

up for in time and energy in buying and assembling the

and decorating the cake to give it a personal touch. For

goody bags.

my daughter’s first few birthdays we made a vanilla cake with vanilla icing (less mess and staining as she smashed

SET UP AFFORDABLE GAMES & ACTIVITIES

into it) and then made cupcakes for the guests that fit the theme and offered a variety of flavors.

OP

Games and activities can make or break a kid’s birthday party, but they don’t have to cost much— or anything at all. Don’t rule out simple games like

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Ashley is mom to Avery, almost 5, and Reed, just turned 1, a small business owner, and editor of Owensboro Parent, the best magazine around.

www.OwensboroParent.com

www.OwensboroParent.com

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39

birthday guide

let’s plan a

healthy party!

{ by: heather haynes }

As

parents, we start to gather our ideas for a birthday party weeks ahead of time. We see what our kids love and play off it. But planning a birthday party is never an easy task, families are busy and life is crazy. We search for ideas that everyone will love and try to feed everyone the best options available. When it comes to birthdays there are many options out there that would accommodate any child’s birthday party and keep them happy and active at the same time. As a bonus many of those options are even free! Let’s explore a few options.

PARK IT There are multiple reasons that the park is perfect -- it’s free, it’s outside, it’s automatic entertainment, and our local parks are amazing! Some parks even have spray parks inside of them that allow the kids to play in the water on the hottest days. Grab a picnic table and let them play while parents can find some shade under the trees and enjoy the company of each other.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE BACKYARD

DON’T STRIKE OUT A personal favorite in our family -- Invite your family and friends over for a fun game of baseball. Everyone brings their chairs and gear and you find a local field for everyone to gather in. Watermelon is always a fan favorite at this event. It’s so fun to watch kids, parents, and grandparents gather together to share some great memories!

SLIP N’ SLIDE INTO FUN Who doesn’t love a great water slip n’ slide? Get out a painters tarp, some laundry detergent, and your closest hill! Don’t forget about a running start as kids have fun seeing who can slide the furthest and do the best tricks. This will surely keep everyone entertained for hours. Usually the adults are jumping to get in on the action as well!

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There are also many games that we can play in the comfort

of our backyard. Dodgeball, kickball, football, swimming, and even setting up some fun games or an obstacle course that the kiddos would love. For my son’s 10th birthday we went to our family’s farm for a camping party. He invited seven of his closest friends. I arranged a hot dog roast and had fun camping themed snacks for them. Each child got a flashlight as their “favor” for the night. Something to keep them brave as the sun went down.

But it also served as their guide for the kids’ scavenger hunt.

What started out as who could find the smoothest rock turned into the boys digging up frogs at the pond! I will never forget the muddy hands and feet as they came running back to the tent with frogs as big as their faces! www.OwensboroParent.com

KEEP IT LOCAL You can also round up all of the kiddos and take them to a few places in town that would keep you active! Bowling is a great option, giving out prizes as someone gets their first scratch. Roller skating and bounce houses are always a hit, and a sure way to wear out the little ones. Some outside options are Reid’s Orchard or Trunnell’s, with lots of fun activities for the kids to take part in.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT While activities are always what keeps a party hopping, food is just as important! It’s always easy to grab the pizzas and feed everyone quickly, but there are many options that are available and healthy with just a little bit of planning.

On hot summer days fruit is always a go-to item. Kids love seedless watermelons and they are easy to prepare. Grilling is always a great option! But if that’s not accessible crockpot spaghetti or tacos on the go are great homemade options that keep costs down, feed a lot of people, and are available with many healthy alternatives. When it’s time for cake, take a moment to find a way to make it just a little bit healthier! If you are anything like me, Pinterest is my first search engine for ideas. There are tons of gluten free, vegan, and healthy options to making a desert.

As parents we take a huge responsibilities in making sure that our children’s birthday parties are perfect. We look forward to seeing the smiling faces and the family and friends that will be attending. We stress out hoping that we have everything we need. It’s our natural instinct to stress over the details, but it is all worth it when we watch our children simply enjoy the fun of their special day. That’s a successful birthday party!

OP

Heather is a wife of five years and a mother to three children ages 10, 3, and 1. She works full time at Legends Outfitters and is training for Ironman Louisville.

dog day summer fun

beat the heat with backyard water play { by: danny may }

SLIP N’ SLIDE WIFFLEBALL/KICKBALL Take “sliding into second” to a whole new level by setting up three slip n’ slides in a baseball diamond configuration: one each at first base, second base, and third base. For every good hit, the batter gets to slide into first, second, and third. Next good hit sends them home.

WATER BALLOON PIÑATAS Tie filled water balloons to low hanging tree limbs and let your little ones bust them with a plastic bat.

There’s no candy in this variation, but the winners get a burst of cool water for their prize.

KIDDIE POOL VARIATIONS Cut fish shapes out of foam or sponges and let your kiddos swim with Nemo, Dory, and their friends. Or bring the beach to them: fill a bowl with play sand and make an island oasis in the middle of the kiddie pool. Let them splash, dig, build a mini sand castle, then wash right up in the pool.

WATER GUN TAG This one is pretty self-explanatory! Put on your swimsuits and play a high stakes game of tag, but instead of a simple tap a cold squirt of water will let you know you’re it.

OP

Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner Publishing Co. and a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very active boys, 6 and 8.

www.OwensboroParent.com

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birthday guide

giving is

better { by: melody ann wallace }

E

ven before they are born, our children are showered with

that just gather dust.”

clothes and gifts to celebrate their arrival. Each year we

Aside from college goals, children and teens are often

take on the challenge as parents to come up with elaborate

taught to save their money so that they can eventually

birthday party themes that suit our child’s interests and

afford that larger item they have their eye on. Birthdays

hopefully entertain the attendants as well. As our children

and holidays are an ideal time to request money rather than

grow older, the stack of gifts grows smaller, and the items

things. Saving up for a video game or a first car teaches

become costlier. The same child that was once entertained

children responsibility and delayed gratification. It also

by a simple cardboard box, now has their heart set on a

makes it easier on the shopper for the parent to simply say,

$500 iPad or iPhone. How do we ensure that our children

“Jared is saving up for a new Xbox, so any dollar amount

have what they want and need while still teaching them to

that you are able to give would be greatly appreciated.”

be grateful? There are some ways that you can teach your

RACKING UP RANDOM ACTS

child how to be a cheerful giver, while still providing an atmosphere of fun and celebration.

Another growing trend is to perform Random Acts of Kindness for every birthday year. For example, if your child

GIVING TOWARDS A GOAL

is turning five, you could discuss and choose five small things

A new giving trend has emerged over the last few years,

that he could do to help others. Older children and teens

beginning as young as birth and age one. Families now send

can do a combination of things on both a larger and smaller

out birthday invitations asking for donations to the child’s

scale, including donating blood, and volunteering time to

college fund rather than gifts or toys. Friends and family

serve others in need. There are hundreds of ideas online and

members are still invited to an entertaining get-together

on Pinterest for performing random acts of kindness at little

where a little one discovers, and eventually destroys, their

or no cost.

first birthday cake. Yet, in this case, the child is receiving

more than just duplicate toys. According to financial-aid

experience as well as time with their friends, send out

expert and New York Times contributor Mark Kantrowitz,

invitations for a Service Scavenger Hunt. The idea is to

while it may seem difficult to ask friends and family

invite your child’s friends over and take them around your

members at first, “It is better for the child to get something

neighborhood or community to see which friend, or group of

of lasting value, like a college education, than to get a toy

friends, can complete the most random acts on the list. The

which will hold his or her interest for a short period of time

ladies at TheDatingDivas.com offer free printable templates

before being abandoned. Children often have too many toys

for the scavenger hunt, including check-off lists and fun gift

www.OwensboroParent.com

If you still want your child to enjoy the birthday party

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tags for donated items. Some ideas include dropping an item

Some children have a heart for pets and could request to

off on a neighbor’s door step such as, a box of diapers or

collect items for the Humane Society, while others care

brownie mix, with a tag that says, “You have been Ding Dong

about the elderly and may want to make cards or deliver

Ditched!” Of course, you can use these ideas to inspire you

socks and lotions to a local nursing home. After enclosing a

and your child to customize their own birthday scavenger

special note on the party invitations requesting that guests

hunt that appeals to their interests or perceived need for

bring an item for donation, make sure to save time during

others.

the festivities for children to pack or wrap items. If possible, take the children to visit the site and drop off donations so

DESIRED DONATIONS AND PACKING PARTIES

As your child grows, so will their hearts for others. Shortly

they see what an impact they are making on someone else’s life.

Another fun idea is to have children fill plastic shoe boxes

after Maggie Vooris started her first year of middle school,

with cupcake mix, sprinkles, party plates, and small toys.

she celebrated her 11th birthday. While Maggie did send

These boxes can be delivered to children living or staying in

out party invitations to 25 friends, she also made a unique

nearby shelters such as Oasis or the Daniel Pitino Shelter. If

request. Maggie recalls, “I didn’t ask for any presents. I

you would like to make a monetary donation in your child’s

asked friends to bring things to my birthday party. Things

honor, a $25 donation can ensure that a child at St. Jude’s

like coffee, razors, shampoo and conditioner.” After her

Children’s Hospital can have a birthday party.

party, Maggie and her family took three loads of items to St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter. Maggie says, “I’ve always had a

TREAT YOUR GUESTS

passion for homelessness. I feel like I have so much and they

Rather than spending money on wasteful party favors,

have so little.”

purchase Redbox codes and microwave popcorn so children

Maggie will be celebrating her 12th birthday next month.

can go home and enjoy a movie night with their families,

She says that she plans on asking for donations again this

or even pay one forward to another family. Have children

year and hopes to exceed last year’s amount. As far as

fill out “Thank You” notes for family members during the

recommending the idea of giving to other kids, she says, “I

party and take them home with a small gum or candy treat

know for birthdays you usually get presents. I would start

attached. Create “Pay it Forward” bags that include items

with a few friends bringing a few things and then work up

such as sidewalk chalk and Post-it notes that children can

to more friends.” By using her heart for others along with

use to make someone else’s day.

her friends’ willingness to give, she was able to bless many

people at St. Benedict’s and looks forward to doing so again

one.

Above all, have fun and make this birthday a memorable OP

this year.

As their birthday approaches, talk to your child about their interests and who they would like to help if they could.

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Melody Ann Wallace is a 6th grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School who finds new blessings each day in her roles as teacher, wife, mom, and stepmom.

www.OwensboroParent.com

www.OwensboroParent.com

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back to school

back to school important dates

Daviess County Public Schools

First day of school for DCPS students is Wednesday, August 10.

Daviess County Public Schools are hosting back to school events as we look forward to welcoming students back to school in Aug.. These events provide important information for our families to ensure a smooth beginning to the school year, including bus schedules, classroom visits, fee payments and information about after-school programs.

This list may not be complete; additional events may be scheduled at a later date.

Parents should call the school their child will attend to confirm information about these events. Phone numbers are listed below.

In addition to these back-to-school events, DCPS is offering online registration for the first time this year. Parents and guardians who need assistance with that process may attend any of numerous “Open Lab” events at each school or at additional locations listed below.

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(Families with more than one child may complete the registration process for all children at the same time.)

Open labs for online registration are also available at the DCPS Learning Center, 1700 Parrish Plaza Drive, between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. July 12, 14, 18, 20, 21, 22, 26 and 28. Computers and staff members will be set up and ready to provide assistance.

Parents/guardians may also attend open lab events at any DCPS school.

For families with more than one child, registration for all children can be done at the same time. Parent/guardian should take copies of required documents, such as physical exam forms, birth certificates etc.

For more information or assistance regarding online registration, call 270852-7000 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays (ask for Student Services) or call 270-316-6644 between 5 and 8 p.m. or write to OLRhelp@dcps.org ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Audubon Elementary School Contact: 852-7150

Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 19 and 21 (open labs for AES will be held at Burns Middle School due to construction at Audubon) Home visits to deliver information packets – Aug. 1 Kindergarten orientation – 6 p.m. Aug. 2 Back-to-School Event – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 4 Burns Elementary School Contact: 852-7170 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 25 Kindergarten screening – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 27 Kindergarten screening – 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 1 Preschool orientation – 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 2 Open House (grades 1-5) – 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Aug. 4 Kindergarten orientation – 6 p.m. Aug. 4 Country Heights Elementary School Contact: 852-7250 Online registration open lab – 2 to 6 p.m.

July 20 Kindergarten screening (last names A-K) – 8 to 10 a.m. Aug. 1 Kindergarten screening (last names L-Z) – 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 1 www.OwensboroParent.com

Kindergarten orientation – 5 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 4 Open House – 6 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4 Deer Park Elementary School Contact: 852-7270 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 28 Home visits to deliver welcome bags – 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 3 Kindergarten Jump Start – 8 to 10 a.m.

Aug. 4 Kindergarten parent night – 6 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4 Back-to-School Open House – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 8 East View Elementary School Contact: 852-7350 Online registration open lab – 3:30 to 7 p.m. July 14 Kindergarten Jump Start – 9 to 11 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. Aug. 2 “Fun with the Suns” home visits to deliver welcome packet – Aug. 3 Back-to-School Picnic and Open House – 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 4 Preschool orientation – 4 to 5 p.m. Aug. 4 Kindergarten orientation – 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Aug. 4 Highland Elementary School Contact: 852-7370 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 27 Grade 5 Back-to-School Picnic – 5:30 to 7 p.m. Aug. 1 at Yellow Creek Park Kindergarten parent orientation and

www.OwensboroParent.com

kindergarten KickStart – 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 2 Preschool orientation – 6 p.m. Aug. 3 Early Bird PTO School Supply Sale – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 4 Back-to-School Bash – 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 4 Meadow Lands Elementary School Contact: 852-7450 Online registration open lab – 3 to 6 p.m.

July 26 “Meet in the Meadows” home visits – Aug. 2 Kindergarten Jump Start – 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 3 Kindergarten orientation – 5 p.m. Aug. 4 Back-to-School Night – 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Aug. 4 Sorgho Elementary School Contact: 852-7470 Online registration open lab – 5 to 7 p.m.

July 21 Back-to-School Bash – 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 4 Southern Oaks Elementary School Contact: 852-7570 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 12 Back-to-School open house – 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 4 Tamarack Elementary School Contact: 852-7550 Online registration open lab – 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 11 and 13 (open labs for

TES will be held at Apollo High School due to construction at Tamarack) Kindergarten orientation – 6 p.m. Aug. 3 Home visit blitz – starts at 9 a.m. Aug. 4 Back-to-School Open House for grades 1-5 – 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 8 West Louisville Elementary School Contact: 852-7650 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 21 Kindergarten screening – 3 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 1 Kindergarten screening – 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 2 Back-to-School Night – 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Aug. 4 Whitesville Elementary School – 8527670 Online registration open lab – 4 to 8 p.m.

July 19 Kindergarten screening – noon to 3 p.m.

Aug. 1 Kindergarten Jump Start – 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 5 Back-to-School Picnic – 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 8 MIDDLE SCHOOLS Burns Middle School Contact: 852-7400 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 19 and 21 Grade 6 Jump Start – 9 to 11 a.m. Aug. 4 Grades 7-8 Open House – 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Aug. 4

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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College View Middle School Contact: 852-7500 Online registration open lab – 3 to 7 p.m.

July 25 Grade 6 orientation – 8:30 to 11 a.m. Aug. 4 Grades 7-8 schedule pick-up – 6 to 8 p.m.

Aug. 4; 9 to 11 a.m. Aug. 5 Daviess County Middle School Contact: 852-7600 Online registration open lab – 4 to 7:30 p.m. July 28 New student registration – 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 1 Grade 8 schedule pick-up – 8 to 10 a.m.

Aug. 3 Grade 7 schedule pick-up – 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 3 Grade 6 schedule pick-up – 1 to 3 p.m.

Aug. 3 Grade 6 Plan for Success – 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 4 HIGH SCHOOLS Apollo High School Contact: 852-7100 Online registration open lab – 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 11 and 13 Grades 10-11-12 Fee Days – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 3 and 4 Grade 9 Fee Days – 2 to 6 p.m. Aug. 3 and 4 Freshman orientation – 8:30 a.m. to noon Aug. 5 Daviess County High School Contact: 852-7300 Online registration open lab – 3 to 6 p.m.

July 26 and 28 Fee Days – 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 2-3-4-5 and 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 4 Freshman orientation – 8 a.m. to noon Aug. 5 Heritage Park High School Contact: 852-7200 Online registration open lab – 4 to 6 p.m.

July 28 Back-to-School Picnic – 4 to 6 p.m. July 28 48 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2016

Owensboro Public Schools

Grades 1-­4 register Aug. 3 from 12 -­6 p.m.

Newton Parrish

First Day of School for Students will be Wednesday, August 10.

All grades register Aug. 2 from 11 a.m.

Children new to the district who have not registered will need to show a certified birth certificate, a social security card, a physical exam and an up-to-date immunization certificate on the required Kentucky forms. All students age 6 and under must have an eye exam and dental exam/screening reported on the required Kentucky forms no later than January of their first year in public school.

Sutton

-­6 p.m.

Kindergarten registers July 27 from 4 -­6 p.m.

Grades 1-­4 register Aug. 4 from 12 -­6 p.m.

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Owensboro Middle School (grades 5-8) 5th and 6th Graders register Aug. 4 from 2 -­6 p.m.

PRESCHOOLS Hager Preschool 1701 W. 7th St. located on the campus of Foust Elementary School.

Hager Preschool will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday each week throughout the summer from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. for parents to register preschoolers.

Developmental Screenings scheduled by appointment on July 21, 27, 28, 2016.

Orientation Schedule will be as follows according to CHILD’S LAST NAME that will be enrolled at Hager: A-Hag: Aug. 10, 1 or 6 p.m.; Hai-N: Aug. 11, 1 or 6 p.m.; O-Z: Aug. 15, 1 or 6 p.m.

Phase-In Days will be held on Aug. 24 & 25 as assigned by the classroom teacher during Orientation. Preschool students will begin a regular half-day schedule on Monday, Aug. 29.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Cravens All grades register Aug. 1 from 12 -­6 p.m.

Estes All grades register Aug. 1 from 12 -­6 p.m.

Kindergarten Kickoff – Aug. 4 – 5-5:30 Back to School Luau- Aug. 4 – 5:30-6:30 Foust Kindergarten registers July 27 from 4 -­6 p.m.

Jumpstart for 5th Graders will be Aug. 5 from 9 a.m. -­noon at 2631 South Griffith (South Campus) 7th and 8th Graders register Aug. 4 from 2 -­6 p.m. at 1300 Booth Avenue (North Campus) HIGH SCHOOLS Owensboro High School (grades 9-12) Students pick up schedules, get locker assignments, parking permits and other information on the following schedule: Seniors register on Aug. 4 from 8 -­10 a.m.

Juniors register on Aug. 4 from 10 a.m. -­ noon Sophomores register on Aug. 4 from 1 -­3 p.m.

Freshmen register on Aug. 4 from 4:30 -­6 p.m.

Freshman parent meeting at 5:30 p.m. in auditorium on Aug. 4 Freshman Orientation on Aug. 5 from 9 --- noon Owensboro Innovation Academy (grades 9-10) Aug. 3 -­Open House/Registration from 5 -­7 p.m. at 1010 Allen St. Gateway Academy Aug. 3 –­Open House/Registration from 5 -­7 p.m. at 2401 McConnell Ave. www.OwensboroParent.com

Owensboro Catholic Schools

First day of school for Owensboro Catholic students is Wednesday, August 10.

Important Dates: June 25th-July 9th – KHSAA Dead Period July 1st – PSAS Round 4 Deadline July 13-14 – Used Uniform Sale – K-3 Campus 5 - 7 p.m.

July 15th – Full tuition payment deadline July 18th – Round 4 tuition assistance awards mailed Aug. 1st – Final tuition payment schedule deadline Aug. 1st – Back to school supply fair- Blessed Mother Church Aug. 10th – First day of school Oct 10-14th – Fall Break Register for newsletters at owensborocatholic.org and click on E-News and choose the newsletters you would like to receive (we recommend “In the Loop” and “Director’s Corner” for everyone).

New Families: Register for SCRIP SUCCE$$ at the Central Office: leave your name, address, phone and email address to earn SCRIP for the school and for future tuition rebates for your family.

Uniform Vendor: The Crowne, 207 East 2nd St., Owensboro, KY 270-231-8132 Live in the County? Need to ride the bus? Contact Daviess County Bus Garage, 270-852-7080 K-3 Campus Aug. 4th 5:30 - 7 p.m. – Meet your teacher night. Please bring all school supplies with you.

Aug. 18th 6 - 7 p.m. - Parents only curriculum night.

4-6 Campus June 17th – last day to order optional school supply kits. www.shopttkits.com Aug. 3rd 6 p.m. – Meet your teacher night.

OCMS Aug. 3rd Time TBA – 7th grade orientation.

Aug. 3rd 11 a.m. -12 p.m. – 8th grade pick up schedules.

Aug. 30th – Fall Open House.

September 7th – picture day.

Oct 24-25th – Parent/Teacher Conferences.

OCHS July 27th 2-6 p.m. – Back to school information day.

Aug. 3rd 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. – Freshmen orientation & picnic.

September 14th 4 - 7 p.m. – Parent/Teacher Conferences. www.OwensboroParent.com

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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50 OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

back to school

back to life back to reality

dos and don’ts from teachers

{ by: melody ann wallace }

E

ach year, summer seems to vanish; before we know it, back to school sales and academic preparations are upon us. Parents often wonder how to best prepare their children to go to school for the first time or transition between grades or schools. This year, we thought it might be helpful to provide some of the do’s and don’ts of starting back to school, as suggested by veteran teachers.

IN THE BEGINNING – KINDERGARTEN

Do have positive discussions with your child about starting school, making new friends, and learning new things.

Do read with your child. While it is important that children be able to identify letters and know how to hold a pencil, kindergarten teachers say the most important thing you can do is read with your child.

Sorgho Elementary School teacher, Donna Bray, has spent eleven of the last seventeen years teaching kindergarten. Mrs. Bray says that so often “we focus on how letters sound and don’t discuss what the story is www.OwensboroParent.com

about. It is important to read to your child, thinking about your reading. Discuss the story. Question why.”

Bray says that by teaching our children to “think about their thinking,” we are preparing them for future situations in the classroom and in life.

Do make sure that your child can go to the bathroom and care for him or herself independently. There are so many new skills to be learned in kindergarten. It is important to ensure that your child is equipped with basic self-help skills such as: toilet training, hand washing, eating, and drinking from a cup or milk carton.

This allows your child, and their teacher, to focus on learning.

Don’t assume that they will be taught how to tie their shoes at school. Practice tying shoes at home, while understanding that not all children progress at the same rate developmentally (so Velcro shoes are still okay).

IT’S ELEMENTARY

Do set and maintain a consistent bedtime routine.

It would be helpful to establish this a week or two prior July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

51

to school starting.

Do create a central location for important papers that

come home and need signatures or special attention.

Don’t expect all communication to come home on

paper. Sign up for class newsletters and homework emails.

Teachers also use sites and apps, such as Class Dojo and Remind, to update families on events and assignments.

Do establish a consistent area for children to complete

their homework. Whether it is at the kitchen table or tucked away at a desk in another room, it is important that your child have a place to sit down each night and complete their work without interruption.

Do maintain a set of necessary school supplies at home.

So often we get caught up in the idea of buying armfuls of supplies for school, that we fill our child’s backpack to the brim with supplies we may never see again. When doing your back-to-school shopping, purchase an extra set of pencils, crayons, markers, scissors, glue, and notebook paper to keep at home. This way supplies are readily available and there is no excuse for not being able to complete assignments.

STUCK IN THE MIDDLE

The middle school years are transitional years that

allow our children to discover their individual personalities and abilities.

Do make sure your child knows your address and

phone number. This may sound like a no-brainer, but in the cell phone age, you would be surprised how many children do not know their parents’ phone numbers because they are accustomed to pushing a pre-programmed button that says “Mom.”

Do discuss personal hygiene and encourage your child

to take an active role in the process. Make sure boys and girls know how to care for themselves and apply deodorant in the morning and before exercise or extra-curricular activities.

Middle school girls, especially, need to be educated and prepared for the changes of adolescence in order to avoid any unnecessary embarrassment.

Do have dinner together as a family as often as possible

and ask your child about their day. One suggestion from a Warren County educator is to go around the table and play Good Day, Bad Day. Each family member takes a turn sharing a success and a challenge they faced that day.

Research supports that students who gather together for at least one meal a day score highest on standardized tests.

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. July // August 2016

Do ask about homework. While it is important to give www.OwensboroParent.com

your child homework support, it is also important that we

not to rush up to school with the homework assignment

teach them responsibility. Websites, such as Quizlet, have

that they left at home on the kitchen table, (you must) let

programs where students can create virtual, and printable,

the student work out the problems with his or her teacher.”

flashcards in order to foster good study habits.

and the teacher, recognizing they are trained, caring

Do check grades regularly using Infinite Campus and

Do keep lines of communication open between you

discuss assignments and expectations with your child.

professionals equipped to do what is in the best interest of

Do build relationships with teachers. Although it may

your child.

seem a bit different than elementary school, and there may be a few more teachers to contact, communication is still

WE ARE FAMILY

very important. Sending a brief email message or writing a

quick note in your child’s agenda book helps to make sure

some good old-fashioned family fun.

you are both on the same page.

do games like Candyland, Connect Four, and Go Fish allow

Don’t allow electronics in the bedroom after bedtime.

Electronics provide an unnecessary temptation to children at night. Late night cell phone text messages buzzing and Call of Duty battles raging can cause children to not only lose much needed rest, but also to be lethargic and less attentive during school hours. Establish an area (outside of the bedroom) for cell phones and electronics to be docked and charged before bedtime.

LIVING THE HIGH LIFE

The high school years are an exciting and challenging

time to watch our children transform into the adults they are destined to be.

Do emphasize the importance of being positive and

accepting. Middle school and high school are tough years for transitioning and making friends. For that reason, a lot of children can easily fall into the trap of picking on others, or treating others poorly, in order to find favor in the eyes of a new peer group. Explain to your child what behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable in true friendships so they will know what to look for.

Don’t jump to conclusions when problems arise

concerning an assignment or teacher. Mollie Wade taught high school for twenty-nine years, while raising two children of her own. Mrs. Wade says that “students want to put themselves in the best light,” and therefore they may omit information in the interest of avoiding punishment or blame. For example, that poster that must be turned in tomorrow may have actually been assigned two weeks ago.

Make sure to find out all the information before making a decision or judgment call.

Do let them suffer consequences. Mrs. Wade says,

“High school is a time to become independent and (allow our children) to solve their own problems. As hard as it is www.OwensboroParent.com

Before you set that alarm clock, make some time for Do pull out the card games and board games. Not only

you to share quality time together, children learn valuable skills such as number concepts, how to follow directions, and how to take turns.

Don’t let your child win every time when playing

games. When our children are small, we often find joy in seeing them win, but it is in teaching them to lose gracefully, and win humbly that they learn the greatest lessons.

Do watch a movie as a family. There are so many

wonderful movies that were great books before they were great movies. Pop some popcorn and choose a movie based on a book that you or your children have read. Afterwards, discuss the similarities and differences between the two, what you both liked about it, and what you each found surprising.

Do cook together. Meal preparation at any age can

be an engaging and educational task. Find a new recipe on Pinterest that you can prepare together. Discuss the different types of math problems you can do while measuring the ingredients for baking. Practice setting the table and using manners when serving and eating food.

Do unplug. Turn off and put away all cell phones

and devices and spend some quality time together. Take a walk or ride your bikes around a nearby park. Drop a fishing line in the water and just listen to your child as they discuss what excites them and worries them about the coming school year.

Enjoy each moment you have as a family, because

time goes by faster than you think!

OP

Melody Ann Wallace is a 6th grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School who finds new blessings each day in her roles as teacher, wife, mom, and stepmom.

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

53

back to school

college readiness { by: taryn rice }

“What do you want to be when you grow up? What are you going to major in? What do you plan on doing after college?”

These are all versions of questions we’ve asked

our high school students as they try to figure out the next step in their transition from high school to college and then, college to the workforce. We want to be sure we send our sons and daughters in to the next stage of life with as much information and as many options as possible. But, how do we help them get there?

Perhaps one of the most crucial topics concerning

and counselors. As a whole, the state of Kentucky has shown marked improvements in the percentage of students who are college ready: from 54.1% in 2013 to 78.9% in 2015. This number is based upon test scores in math, English, and reading for graduating seniors.

How is our community increasing college readiness for our graduates? Our very own Daviess County High School has a daily schedule that consists of four classes per semester, including 30 minutes of dedicated College/Career Readiness every day.

Students at DCHS are also assigned to an advocate,

high school students is readiness for the academic rigor

who serves as a sort of career and school advisor,

and life skills needed to survive in college. College

helping the student succeed in all areas of high school

readiness affects the path a student takes through high

life.

school and enhances post-graduate opportunities.

Here in Kentucky, the number of high school

laptop to enhance the value of eLearning and allow

graduates who are considered “college and career

connectedness. Apollo students also develop an

ready” upon graduation is on the rise due to a focus

Individual Learning Plan (ILP) to help guide their

on college readiness from our hardworking educators

high school experience to a college and career path of

54 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2016

At Apollo High School, each student has a

www.OwensboroParent.com

their choosing.

uses innovative teaching strategies and engaging ways

So, what can our kids do now to prepare for the world

to cultivate passion for the subject content and to give

after high school? What if your child doesn’t know what

students a college experience while still in high school

he wants to major in after high school? Maybe you’ve got

(for more information about the Owensboro Innovation

a freshman or sophomore who is just not sure what he

Academy, visit the OPS website). DCPS students are

wants to do after graduation…but he excels in computers

able to take courses through the Community Campus

and loves to learn how things work. Encourage him to

program, including the Life Science Academy and the

take a computer programming class, several of which

Engineering Academy, depending on their area of interest

are available for dual (high school and college) credit

(Visit the DCPS website for more information.)

and can transfer to the college of his choice. Encourage

your student to take classes at the high school that allow

If he has selected a major, awesome! If not, meeting with

her to explore her interests and find her passion. Enroll

an advocate, guidance counselor, or college and career

in dual credit or Advanced Placement courses that will

readiness coordinator can be set up to help figure out his

allow your student to get a taste of college while still in

aptitude or skills in a certain area. Sometimes, all it takes

high school and even receive college hours. If your child

is a vote of confidence from a trusted adult to pave the

exhibits excellence in a skill or trade, have him or her

career path for an uncertain student. So, for those of you

enroll in a technical program at our local community and

with students nearing the end of their high school career,

technical college. If your child still needs some help, have

here are a few tips from College and Career Readiness

him make an appointment with the school’s College and

Coordinator for the Daviess County Public Schools,

Career Coordinator.

Amanda Jerome:

Another viable option, depending on test score

• Help your child file the FAFSA early! What is the

eligibility, would be the Early College Academies,

FAFSA? It’s the Free Application for Federal Student

available to high school students through both Daviess

Aid (https://fafsa.gov) If your child will be a senior

County Public Schools and Owensboro Public Schools via

this fall, October 1, 2016 is the first day to begin

a partnership with Owensboro Community and Technical

completing the FAFSA. Everyone needs to fill it out.

College. The Early College Academies allow students

Everyone! Even if your income makes your child

to select an academic track and take courses for college

ineligible for grants or student loans, completing the

credit, ideally resulting in a two-year associate’s degree

FAFSA is a requirement for most scholarships offered

by the end of the sequence. For example, the OPS model

by your child’s college/university and is necessary if

www.OwensboroParent.com

Maybe you have a child who will be a senior this fall.

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

55

your child plans to work on campus (through the

scores and GPA; it is applied to any college or

Work Study program).

university in the state of Kentucky. Students can

• Be sure your child is applying for scholarships

receive up to $1,000 per semester depending on test

regularly through websites like www.fastweb.com

scores and grades. Additional information can be

or www.cappex.com. If you have questions about

found here: www.kheaa.com

specific scholarships, contact your high school

• Encourage your child to take the ACT (www.

guidance counselor. Scholarships exist for more

actstudent.org) more than once. This test affects

than just academic achievements. Consider your

college entrance and unlocks various levels of

child’s unique hobbies, talents, or traits to use in

academic scholarships, so encourage your child to

searching for scholarship possibilities.

take it seriously and do their best.

• Think about the option of community college after

All of these questions can be answered by your

high school to cut the rising cost of tuition at the

child’s guidance counselor or college/career readiness

four-year universities. OCTC has a 2 + 2 program,

coordinator. Spend your summer encouraging your

which allows students to complete two years of

child to figure out where they’d like to spend the next

general education and then transfer seamlessly to

several summers!

OP

any four-year college in the state!

• Take advantage of the KEES scholarship money program. KEES money is earned through ACT

56 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2016

Taryn is newly married to Andy and enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. She previously worked as a college advisor and high school recruiter for three years.

www.OwensboroParent.com

www.OwensboroParent.com

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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58 OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

discover { paid advertorial }

developmental

milestones

{ by: dr. nicole davis } o n e h e a l t h m e d i c a l g ro u p

T

he first smile. The first steps. The first time they say “Mommy,” or “Daddy.” Your child is tiny and wonderful and every one of these moments is

12 months •

Pull to a standing position

•

Drink from a cup

almost magical.

•

Enjoy games like “peek-a-boo”

•

Wave goodbye

At the same time you’re celebrating these achievements

with your child, they’re giving you some subtle clues about themselves. We call them “developmental milestones,” and they’re what tell us about the progress your little one is making as they grow.

As a pediatrician, I watch for these milestones at every

well child visit. It can tell me if they have an issue preventing them from developing normally. If your child does have an issue, we want to intervene early and work to resolve the problem or help you and your child adapt to it.

A GLIMPSE INTO WHAT WE WATCH FOR 3 months •

Respond to loud sounds

•

Lift head and chest while lying on their stomach

• Smile •

Making cooing sounds

18 months •

Feed self

•

Use eight to 10 words that are understood

•

Walk without help

•

Throw a ball or run

2 years •

Uses sentences with two to three words

•

Climb stairs

•

Identify hair, eyes, ears and nose by pointing

•

Follow two-step commands

3 years •

Ride a tricycle

•

Play with other children for a few minutes

•

Name at least one color correctly

•

Use sentences with three to five words

6 months

4 years

•

Roll from stomach to back

•

Balance on one foot for at least four to six seconds

•

Transfer objects from one hand to another

•

Dress and undress with minimal help

•

Sit upright with support

•

Play simple group games

•

Give first and last names

• Babble www.OwensboroParent.com

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

59

{ paid advertorial }

5 years

•

•

Skip using feet alternatively

for at-risk behaviors (such as alcohol or substance abuse) and

•

Speak clearly

assess potential for anxiety or depression

•

Count five to 10 objects

•

Print a few letters

•

Copy familiar shapes (square, circle, triangle)

CHECKING IN

Yearly exams are important not just for infants and toddlers,

but for children of all ages. These visits offer us the opportunity to see your child’s overall progress, which we typically aren’t able to do during sick visits. Here are some things we do or look for when we see your child during an annual physical: •

Infants: Monitor growth, discuss feeding advancement, assess

developmental milestones and share guidance on topics such as

Teenagers: Monitor puberty and sexual development, screen

EVERY CHILD IS DIFFERENT

One thing I want all parents to know is that these

developmental milestones aren’t an exact timeline. Think of it as more like a range or a window. Some children may achieve a milestone right at the beginning of the time range. Others may achieve it near the end, but both are normal. These are little people, and no two people are alike. Don’t feel discouraged if your child is achieving milestones in the time range, but not as quickly as others.

If you have any questions, please talk to your pediatrician.

car seat and sleep safety

It’s important to us to set your mind at ease when your child is

•

Young children: Monitor growth, screen for autism, look for

doing well or get you the help you need if they are struggling.

signs and symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

We’re happy to help as you and your child grow together. More

(ADHD) and other learning disabilities, check for scoliosis and

information, including free resources and checklists, can also be

conduct hearing and vision tests

found at www.cdc.gov/actearly or www.healthychildren.org.

OP

Dr. Nicole Davis is a pediatrician with Owensboro Health’s One Health medical group. For more information or to make an appointment with a One Health provider, call 844-44-MY-ONE (844-446-9663).

60 OWENSBORO PARENT

. July // August 2016

www.OwensboroParent.com

www.OwensboroParent.com

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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discover

earFACT infections & FICTION

E

ar infections, also known as otitis media, are one of the most commonly diagnosed illnesses in children. In fact, about 50 percent of children have at least one ear infection by age 1 and that number jumps to 80 percent by the third birthday. Concerned parents often have questions about how to approach their child’s ear health. This article will address some facts and also some myths about ear infections.

Unless otherwise stated, the ear infections discussed here are middle ear infections (otitis = ear, media = middle), not to be confused with external or outer ear infections, sometimes referred to as swimmer’s ear or otitis externa.

1. “IF THERE IS NO FEVER, IT’S NOT AN EAR INFECTION.” FICTION. There are several symptoms that can accompany an ear infection, but they need not all be present. Fever, decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, fussiness, and ear pain are some of the most common symptoms. Pulling or tugging at the ears in a nonverbal infant or toddler can represent pain, but may be associated with teething, self-soothing behavior, or simply exploring body parts.

{ by: shanna mcginnis,

MD, FAAP

}

2. “SOME CHILDREN ARE MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO EAR INFECTIONS.” FACT. Ear infections result from a combination of infection and anatomy. Most ear infections develop following a viral cold infection. The eustachian tubes, which run from each middle ear to the back of the throat, help drain secretions from the middle ear.

These tubes become inflamed and swollen during a cold infection and result in build up of fluid that can become infected with viruses or bacteria. Children, in general, are more prone to ear infections because their eustachian tubes are more narrow and horizontal, resulting in more fluid accumulation. Some children have large adenoids, which sit at the base of the eustachian tubes and prevent them from functioning well. Others have seasonal or chronic allergies that become a risk factor.

3. “ALL EAR INFECTIONS NEED TO BE TREATED WITH ANTIBIOTICS.” FICTION. In recent years, new guidelines have recommended using the “watch and wait” approach for certain patients with ear infections. This

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recommendation was issued for a few reasons. Up to 40 percent of ear infections are caused by viruses and are not cured with antibiotics, but rather with the body’s own defenses. The remaining 60 percent of infections caused by bacteria often get better without antibiotics, too. There is no way to tell by looking in the ear which infections are viral versus bacterial. With the growing bacterial resistance problem and low complication rate for ear infections, it is suggested that symptoms of pain and fever are treated with acetaminophen or ibuprofen while giving the child’s immune system an opportunity to fight off the infection.

If things don’t improve within 48-72 hours, antibiotics should be prescribed. You can discuss with your doctor when this approach is appropriate.

4. “I SHOULDN’T USE COTTON SWABS IN MY CHILD’S EARS TO CLEAN THEM.” FACT. Ear wax, or cerumen, serve a protective role for your external ear canal by trapping dust and microorganisms. It also provides a waterproof barrier to prevent infections like swimmer’s ear. For this reason, wax should not be cleaned until it is visible and can be wiped away with a moist cloth. Sometimes, excess wax production will build up in the ear and cause pain or hearing loss. Your doctor can assist you with removal. Ear wax has no role in middle ear infections, but watery or pus-like drainage from the ear can indicate swimmer’s ear or a perforated ear drum due to a middle ear infection.

5. “THERE IS NOTHING I CAN DO AS A PARENT TO PREVENT EAR INFECTIONS.” FICTION. There are some risk factors associated with ear infections that can be reduced. Secondhand smoke is associated with an increased risk of ear infections and many other childhood illnesses. Quitting can be very beneficial to your’s child’s health.

Studies show that breastfed infants have less ear infections than formula fed infants. In addition, staying up to date on vaccines is another important step in risk reduction. Among the bacterial causes of ear infection, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenza are the most common organisms.

The routine vaccines given during the first year of life provide protection from these bacteria.

If your child experiences recurrent or persistent infections, your doctor will instruct you on the appropriate time to visit an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) for further management.

OP

Dr. Shanna McGinnis is a pediatrician at the One Health Pediatrics. She is also the mother of 3 children.

www.OwensboroParent.com

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discover

the kids eat free list

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Monday

Tuesday

Catfish Willy’s - $1.99 kids meal

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – free kids meal

with the purchase of adult meal

with the purchase of adult entrée from 4 – 8 p.m. for kids 12 years

Grandy’s - 99¢ kids meals with the

and younger

purchase of regular adult meal Denny’s – 2 free kids meals per TGI Fridays – free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée for kids 12 years and younger

Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn - Kids 10

adult meal purchase Fazoli’s - 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of adult meal up to 3 meals with the purchase one entrée

and under eat free on Monday

Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet

night at Moonlite from 4-9 p.m.

for kids 10 and under with adult

(limit 2 free kids buffets per adult

purchase with a drink from 5 p.m.

buffet purchase)

– 8 p.m.

www.OwensboroParent.com

Pizza Hut – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of adult buffet from 5 – 8 p.m. at the South Frederica location Salsarita’s – free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only

Thursday Bee Bop’s – free kids meal with the purchase of adult meal after 5 p.m. for kids 12 and younger

Saturday

Wheatgrass Juice Bar – free kids smoothie with adult purchase

Sunday Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée for kids 10 and younger Maloney’s – free kids meals from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Salsarita’s – free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only

Maloney’s – free kids meals from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids 10 and under with adult purchase with a drink from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Lure Seafood & Grille – free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée

*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation.

www.OwensboroParent.com

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july // august 2016 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.

Want to include your event? Contact the editor at ashley@owensboroparent.com.

ALL MONTH

OWENSBORO REGIONAL FARMER’S MARKET The Market is now open until the end of October at the corner of Triplett Street and Parish Avenue from 6:30 am – 12 noon on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Now through August, the Market is also located at the Owensboro Health Regional Hospital on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. Both locations have parking lots for your convenience. All vendors accept cash, most will accept personal checks, and some will accept credit/debit cards. The Market also accepts SNAP/EBT payments as well as credit cards. These forms of payment are taken at the Market Information tent with the Market Manager. Customers will be given wooden tokens to spend with the vendors in exchange for their SNAP/EBT/credit card payments.

Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market, 1205 Triplett Street, 6:30 a.m. – noon on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday through October.

Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, 1201 Pleasant Valley Road, Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. through August 31.

Come out and join us! Check out our facebook page for special event days, www.facebook.com/ OwensboroRegionalFarmersMarket THE OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY’S RIVERWORKS DISCOVERY: A JOURNEY OF EXPLORATION TRAVELING EXHIBIT Open now through June 5th! This exciting exhibit brings the Ohio River, and all of Mid-America’s inland waterways, to life through informative, hands-on exhibits that are fun for the entire family! Younger visitors will especially enjoy the large water table that allows them to experiment with water flow, currents, building barriers and dams and much, much more! This exhibit is free with admission (museum members are free) and is sponsored, in part, by: Evansville Propeller Club, Foertsch Group, Inland Marina, Kentucky Corn Growers Association, Owensboro Grain, Owensboro Riverport, Yager Materials and Yellow Banks River Terminal; Closed Monday, Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.; 122 E 2nd St.; 270-687-2732.

FRIDAY, JULY 1

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, ServPro of Owensboro presents “Electric Time Machine” (Top Hits/Variety 6:30p.m.10p.m.) on the RiverPark Center patio stage, “Nick Cheek” (acoustic country 7p.m.-10p.m.) is in the Atmos Energy Courtyard, “Heath & Molly” (Americana/Variety 8p.m.-11:30p.m.) are on the Don Moore Party Pier. We’ll feature “Fallout”, the 202nd Army Dance Band on the 66 OWENSBORO PARENT

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Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7p.m.) and we salute our 1st Responders at the Kroger Street Fair as we kick off the holiday weekend. Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com

SATURDAY, JULY 2

FREE ALL-AMERICAN 4TH OF JULY

CELEBRATION The annual city celebration of our nation’s birthday has traditionally been on July 4th. For 2016, 4th of July Celebration will take place on Saturday, July 2nd. This incredible celebration in downtown Owensboro will feature two stages of live music throughout the evening, a Kid’s Bike Parade, 4th Fest activities inside the Owensboro Convention Center. The magnificent fireworks display, accompanied music by the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, will kick-off at 9:15 p.m. to end the night’s celebration over the Ohio River.

Program Schedule Kids Bike Parade: 5 - 5:30 p.m.

Electric Time Machine: 5 - 6:45 p.m.

(McConnell Plaza) Owensboro Symphony: 7 - 7:50 p.m.

(McConnell Plaza) Electric Time Machine: 8 - 8:50 p.m.

(McConnell Plaza) Fireworks Display: 9:15 - 9:35 p.m.

Closing song by OSO: 9:35 - 9:40 p.m.

FREE 2016 4TH FEST BY SPECIALTY FOOD

GROUP Celebrate The 4th of July at the Owensboro Convention Center! Fun for the Entire Family! Enjoy Delicious All-American Food and Drinks! Event begins a 5:30 p.m. and lasts until the fireworks end. FREE Activities and Games for Children! NEW Activities and Inflatables this Year including the Stunt Jump! NEW 4th Fest Food Court!

Coca-Cola Red Zone Exhibit Hall Terrace Seating – $7.50 per person (Non-alcohol and Alcohol sections available) Ticket includes: Access to free activities and games for children, access to a variety of food concessions, access to cash bars, access to restrooms and air-conditioned areas, first-come seating through end of fireworks display and much more. Price includes tax and fees.

Coca-Cola Red Zone Pier VIP Seating – $10.00 per person Ticket includes: Access to free activities and games for children, access to a variety of food concessions, access to cash bars, access to restrooms and air-conditioned areas, first-come seating through end of fireworks display and much more. Price includes tax and fees.

Add a Family 4 Pack Meal to Your Tickets @ $20.00! Includes: 4 hotdogs, 4 bags of chips, and 4 12oz. drinks PRESERVATION STATION Preservation Station Market Days are held the first full weekend of every month. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. with over 100 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. Bring your mom or come buy your mom a last minute Mother’s day gift! Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Hwy 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday Noon -5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www.visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook.

FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE SUNSET CRUISERS DOWNTOWN

CRUISE-IN Downtown Cruise-In is moving Uptown for the SUPER CRUISE! Cruise Frederica Street for chance to win! July’s Cruise-In will be held at Home Depot, 5150 Frederica Street, Owensboro, KY; July’s theme will be Modern Muscle (2000 and newer); 4 – 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 3

2016 FAMILY FREEDOM FIREWORKS FESTIVAL Daviess County Parks and Recreation gladly welcome back its Family Freedom Fireworks Festival. Enjoy music from Heath & Molly, food vendors, inflatables, fantastic fireworks display at 9 p.m. and watch the family friendly movie Minions after the fireworks; Panther Creek Park, 5160 Wayne Bridge Road.

FREE FREEDOM BASH AT DIAMOND LAKE

Wear your red, white and blue and show your patriotism. Enter our pie eating contest, golf cart, or whatever, you’re driving decorating contest! Cruise the park in our Patriotic Parade and we will celebrate with our fabulous fireworks at 9 p.m.

PRESERVATION STATION See event description on Saturday July 2.

MONDAY, JULY 4 Independence Day

FREE FREEDOM DAY 5K This 5K Road

Run/Walk will celebrate the heritage of Independence Day. The race begins at 7:30 at Kentucky Wesleyan College.

TUESDAY, JULY 5

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica www.OwensboroParent.com

calendar Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, JULY 7

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE BLUEGRASS OPEN JAM SESSION

Great time to come experience Bluegrass Music during open jam! Musicians begin at 6 p.m. and usually jam until around 9 p.m.; International Bluegrass Music Museum, 117 Daviess St.; 270-926-7891.

FRIDAY, JULY 8

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, US Bank Home Mortgage presents the “Jimmy Church Band” (R&B Show band 6:30p.m.-10p.m.) on the RiverPark Center patio stage, “Josh Roberts” (acoustic pop/rock 7p.m.-10p.m.) in the Atmos Energy Courtyard, “Jon Wayne & The Pain” (dance reggae/rock 8p.m.-11:30p.m.) on the Don Moore Party Pier. We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7p.m.) plus fun at the Kroger Street Fair. Glenn’s Gospel on the River presents “Conquerors Quartet”, “New Heritage” and “Mark Mudd and Family” (gospel 7p.m.) in the RiverPark Center’s beautiful Cannon Hall. Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com

SATURDAY, JULY 9

FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org SUMMER YOGA SERIES: SEVA DOWNTOWN Riverfront Seva=Self-less service. We are Yogis in Service. The classes are donation based.

All proceeds are given to our organization in need/charity of the month. This summer, The Yoga Loft KY will be offering free yoga to the community at Smothers Park in Owensboro.

www.OwensboroParent.com

This class is open to the community and all ages and skill levels are welcome. Yoga is healing and health supportive. We want as many people as possible to practice yoga in our community. Whether you are a beginner to experienced practitioner come out to enjoy the sunshine and yoga! Place: Smothers Park, The Overlook or The McConnell Plaza (grassy area behind Lure Seafood and Grille/The Hampton Inn).

Announcements the day prior will be made as prior reservations (weddings or other events) may shift exact location. Cost: $5 Donation.

All proceeds will be given to the charity of the month. Limited mats and blocks will be available. Please bring your own if available to you. No registration is required, just show up ready to have fun and play! Please sign waiver before class starts.

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

FREE MUSEUM OF FINE ART SUMMER ART

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

Overlook Stage: Heath & Molly - Allen Street Gazebo: Muddy Gut Blues Band

MONDAY, JULY 11

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

FREE RIVERPARK CAMP #3: COMPASS

CREATIVE DRAMATICS COMPASS CREATIVE DRAMATICS PRESENTS “Goldirox and the Musical Chairs” (Grades 1-12) From July 11 – 15, we’re really excited about our new script – but we need some help from you. Our script is still under construction and we want you to help us make it the best it can be by being the first kids to try out our new scenes, songs, and dances! Chaos reigns as international rock sensation Goldirox and the Musical Chairs check in for a stay at the Bear Hotel and Suites. Searching for a room that’s “just right,” they wreak havoc on the hotel, leaving debris and discord as they fly from suite to suite. The hotel clerks and housekeepers scramble to meet Goldirox’s demands and to avoid the ever-present paparazzi determined to dig up a scandal.

Camp Hours Supervised Drop-Off: 8:30 – 9 a.m.

Camp Program: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Supervised Pick-Up: 3 – 3:30 p.m.

Aftercare: 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Aftercare: The RiverPark Center and Owensboro Museum of Science and History have

partnered together to provide alternating days of aftercare programming from 3:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. each day of camp. For $10 a day, campers will either stay at the center or be supervised at the museum for structured activities. The aftercare program is offered on a per day basis, but space is limited. We encourage you to reserve your child’s spot on the first day of camp for the days they need aftercare. Payment for the additional aftercare program is due on the morning of the day the child will use aftercare. Register online www.riverparkcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 12

CAMP III July 12 - 15, for ages 10-15 from 1 – 3 p.m. OMFA Art Camp III, will offer Free art instruction for children ages 6-15. This art camp will celebrate the community’s public art program by creating monumental outdoor sculpture which will be displayed in OMFA’s Ryan Park, June to September. Registration: info@omfa.us or call 270-685-3181

WEDNESDAY, JULY 13

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, JULY 14

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

FRIDAY, JULY 15

FREE DUST BOWL 2016 43RD ANNUAL

DUST BOWL JULY 15TH-JULY 23RD, 2016 at Kendall-Perkins Park The Dust Bowl Basketball Tournament has become the most anticipated event of the summer in the tri-state area. Every night is a meet and greet with family, friends, classmates, supporters, and fans. It traditionally begins the Third Full Weekend every year in July. This 9-Day Event features BASKETBALL consisting of 10 Divisions: Men’s, Women’s, High School Boys’ and Girls’ (9th-12th Grades), JV Boys and Girls (9th & 10th Grades), 7th & 8th Grade Boys’ and Girls’, 5th & 6th Grade Boys’ and Girls’, and 3rd & 4th Grade and Under Boys’ and Girls’. The annual event includes Basketball Games, Music, Gospel Night, Kids’ Day,

July // August 2016 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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calendar Community Service Recognition, Exhibitors, Vendors, and Concessions. This event is free and open to the public. For more information call Byron W. Owen (270) 302-6310 or (812) 430-7313 Additional information and details visit facebook.com/Kendall-Perkins-Dust-Bowl.

George Stiles, Anthony Drewe. Book, Julian Fellowes. Basis: Mary Poppins book series by P.L. Travers and 1964 Disney film. Mary Poppins will be on the RiverPark Center’s Cannon Hall stage July 16 – 17 and 23 – 24, 2016. Saturday evening performances will be at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees will be at 2 p.m. Individual FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series of performance tickets are available from the free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the RiverPark Center Box Office at (270) 687-2787 eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, or go online to www.riverparkcenter.org Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment SUMMER YOGA SERIES: SEVA DOWNTOWN and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday Riverfront Seva=Self-less service. We are Yogis After 5. This week at Friday After 5, Big Rivers in Service. The classes are donation based. presents an anniversary special event on the All proceeds are given to our organization in patio stage: “Larry Maglinger’s Tribute to Rod need/charity of the month. This summer, The Stewart” plus a special “Reunion of the Velvet Yoga Loft KY will be offering free yoga to the Bombers”, the very first band to ever play at community at Smothers Park in Owensboro.

Friday After 5 twenty years ago. (Tribute and This class is open to the community and all R&B classics 6:30p.m.-10p.m., Michael Jacobs ages and skill levels are welcome. Yoga is (Roots Rock Pop 7p.m.-10p.m.) in the Atmos healing and health supportive. We want as Energy Courtyard, “Fat Box” (Dance Rock many people as possible to practice yoga in 8p.m.-11:30p.m.) on the Don Moore Party Pier. our community. Whether you are a beginner We’ll feature our own LeAnne Musick School to experienced practitioner come out to enjoy Dancers plus “up and coming artists and the sunshine and yoga! Place: Smothers Park, musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound The Overlook or The McConnell Plaza (grassy Overlook stage (7p.m.) and it’s “Family Night” area behind Lure Seafood and Grille/The fun at the Kroger Street Fair. Don’t be late Hampton Inn). Announcements the day prior for our “toast to the sunset” tonight at dusk! will be made as prior reservations (weddings Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the or other events) may shift exact location.

Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com Cost: $5 Donation. All proceeds will be given www.VisitOwensboro.com to the charity of the month. Limited mats and blocks will be available. Please bring your own SATURDAY, JULY 16 if available to you. No registration is required, OWENSBORO PARENT KIDS TRIATHLON just show up ready to have fun and play! Please Owensboro Parent Magazine and the sign waiver before class starts.

Owensboro Family YMCA are pairing up to bring a Kids Triathlon to Owensboro presented FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

by Independence Bank and sponsored by -4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Academy Sports + Outdoors, Legends, Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org Gateway Urgent Care, Kidstop Children’s Boutique and Stride Rite Bootery for children FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor aged 4-17 years old. The children will start concert series on Saturday nights May through with swimming in the Owensboro Family September at the River Overlook Stage in YMCA Aquatic center. Once completing their Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by distance, the participant will run out to the YMCA parking lot (crossing Princeton parkway) the City of Owensboro. Overlook Stage: The Honey Vine – Allen Street Gazebo: Skylar Cain. and get on their bicycle. The participant will complete their bike course which loops in SUNDAY, JULY 17 the streets surrounding the YMCA. Once the MARY POPPINS PRESENTED BY BAM! See bike portion is completed, the participant will rack their bike and take off running on the run event description on Saturday, July 16. course. The run courses will also loop in the streets surrounding the YMCA. Information: Registration, Times, Routes, Age Groups available on the Owensboro Family YMCA website www.owensboroymca.org

MONDAY, JULY 18

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org 2016 DAVIESS COUNTY FAIR – MISS PRETEEN PAGEANT Scholarships, Crowns, Sashes awarded to each winner! $300 to the winner! Miss Preteen & Teen Pageants are open to the following counties: Daviess, McLean, Ohio, Hancock, Hopkins, Muhlenberg & Henderson; 7 p.m. at Hines Center.

FRIDAY, JULY 22

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series of

free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, Owensboro Riverport presents the “V-Groove” (R&B Showband 6:30p.m.-10p.m.) on the RiverPark Center patio stage, “Blue Diamond” (bluegrass 7p.m.-10p.m.) in the Atmos Energy Courtyard, “Roxy Roca” (party dance rock 8p.m.-11:30p.m.) on the Don Moore Party Pier. We’ll feature the LeAnne Musick Dancers plus “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7p.m.).

We’re hosting our first ever “Ahoy Owensboro Boat Parade” right on the Ohio River at the Kroger Street Fair. Glenn’s Gospel on the River presents “Paul Moseley and Friends with special guest, Charlie McCoy” (gospel 7p.m.) in the RiverPark Center’s beautiful Cannon Hall.

Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com 2016 MISS DAVIESS COUNTY PAGEANT at 7 p.m. at Hines Center; $500 to winner!

SATURDAY, JULY 23

FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org SUITS, SEQUINS & SNEAKERS BENEFIT FUNDRAISER FOR THE DANIEL PITINO SHELTER The evening will honor notable friends of the Daniel Pitino Shelter, dinner and drinks, DJ and dancing, and an opportunity to learn how to give back to the homeless families in our city. Individual tickets are $125, and tables of ten are $1,000; Owensboro Convention Center at 5:30 p.m.

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 2016 DAVIES COUNTY FAIR MISS TEEN 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 PAGEANT Scholarships, Crowns, Sashes Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. awarded to each winner! $500 awarded to the TEA WITH MARY POPPINS This will be a winner! Miss Preteen and Teen Pageants open TUESDAY, JULY 19 delightful experience for children as they to the following counties: Daviess, McLean, U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must greet Mary Poppins when she “flys” onto the Ohio, Hancock, Hopkins, Muhlenberg & wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for RiverPark stage. Then it’s off to tea in the Henderson; 7 p.m. at Hines Center.

RiverPark Center lobby when Mary Poppins and $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or Bert will join tea party guests for refreshments ubouncepartyhouse.com.

FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor including punch, cupcakes and cookies. Each concert series on Saturday nights May through FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some child will have the chance to meet Mary for a September at the River Overlook Stage in live music at the River Overlook stage in photo and receive a momentum. Make your Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the reservations by July 14th! Cost: $15 adults, $25 Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica City of Owensboro. Overlook Stage: Gough, Street on every first and third Tuesday now child 3-11, $25 youth 13-18.

Martin & Cheatam – Allen Street Gazebo: Jed through September from 7 – 9 p.m.

Guillaume.

MARY POPPINS PRESENTED BY WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 BAM! Everyone’s favorite nanny alights MARY POPPINS PRESENTED BY BAM! See U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT All must on the Cannon Hall stage in BAM!’s event description on Saturday, July 16. wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2 “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” 2016 are free, unless they are the only child, adults summer musical, Mary Poppins. The Disney/ SUNDAY, JULY 24 Cameron Mackintosh musical tells the story of always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or MARY POPPINS PRESENTED BY BAM! See ubouncepartyhouse.com. the Banks family, whose two young children event description on Saturday, July 16. have sent many a nanny packing — until Mary THURSDAY, JULY 21 Poppins arrives. Can she shape up the family MONDAY, JULY 25 FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and with “A Spoonful of Sugar?” Music and lyrics: FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and Robert B. Sherman, Richard M. Sherman, younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 68 OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.

“The Louisville Crashers” (Classic Hits 8pm11:30pm) on the Don Moore Party Pier. We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm) and it’s “Harley Bike Night” at the Kroger Street Fair. Don’t be late for our “toast to the sunset” tonight at dusk! Fun. Free.

Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com

Battle of the Bluegrass Tractor Pull – 7 p.m.; Miles Arena

2016 DAVIESS COUNTY LIONS CLUB FAIR July 27th thru 30th – See Daily Schedule 4-H/FFA Feeder Calf Show – 5 p.m.; Tom Curtsinger Ag Bldg Open Beef & Youth Fat Steers Show – Following Feeder Calf Show; Tom Curtsinger Ag Bldg Open Dairy Cattle Show – 7 p.m.; Tom Curtsinger Ag Bldg Open Special Dairy Production Classes – Following Dairy Show; Tom Curtsinger Ag Bldg Firefighter’s Challenge – 7 p.m.; Small Arena 4WD Truck Mud Sling – 7:30 p.m.; Miles Arena

2016 DAVIESS COUNTY LIONS CLUB FAIR July 27th thru 30th – See Daily Schedule Bear Hollow Wood Carvers – 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. (auction during intermission); Fairgrounds 4-H Rabbit Show – 6:30 p.m.; 4-H Building Preliminary Talent Show – Registration at 5 p.m., Show starts at 5:30 p.m.; Bittel Hall Coca-Cola Classic Talent Show – Registration at 6:30 p.m., Show at 7 p.m.; Bittel Hall 4-H Poultry Show – 7 p.m.; 4-H Building Open Youth Lamb & Goat Show – 7 p.m.; Tom Curtsinger Ag Bldg Battle of the Bluegrass Tractor Pull – 7 p.m.; Miles Arena

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 30

THURSDAY, JULY 28

FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

TUESDAY, JULY 26

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 27

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org 2016 DAVIESS COUNTY LIONS CLUB FAIR July 27th thru 30th – See Daily Schedule Open Youth Market Swine Show – 6 p.m.; Tom Curtsinger Ag Bldg Dirt Drag Racing – Time Trials 6:30 p.m., Race at 8 p.m.; Miles Arena ATV/4-Wheel Mud Bogg – 7:30 p.m.; Small Arena Bear Hollow Wood Carvers – 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. (auction during intermission); Fairgrounds

FRIDAY, JULY 29

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, R&B Foods presents “Wulfe Brothers” (Classic fun dance music and show) on the RiverPark Center patio stage. (6:30pm to 10pm) “They Music: Alyssa and Chuck “(Americana acoustic 7pm-10pm) in the Atmos Energy Courtyard,

www.OwensboroParent.com

FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

Overlook Stage: Lindsey J Williams – Allen Street Gazebo: Pickin’ In The Park.

OWENSBORO SUMMER FEST PAGEANT Preliminary pageant to the 2016 Kentucky State Festivals Pageant November 18 – 20 in Lexington, KY! Registration: Noon – 1 p.m. All contestants must be checked in by 1:00pm to finalize lineup. Pageant starts: 1:30 p.m.

To ensure your participation & awards, you must secure your spot with full payment of entry fee package ($50) by July 17th! This is a natural pageant! No fake teeth. No fake hair on younger age groups. We want to see your child’s natural beauty – all makeup should be age appropriate! Admission: $2 (1 free adult per child contestant); 12 p.m. at Owensboro Convention Center.

2016 DAVIESS COUNTY LIONS CLUB FAIR 4-H Exhibitors Meal & Banquet – 4:30 p.m.; Bittel Hall Kids’ Pedal Tractor Pull (Free event for kids 3-12) – Registration 5 p.m., Pull at 6 p.m.; Fairgrounds Gazebo

MONDAY, AUGUST 1

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2

FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE BLUEGRASS OPEN JAM SESSION

Great time to come experience Bluegrass Music during open jam! Musicians begin at 6 p.m. and usually jam until around 9 p.m.; International Bluegrass Music Museum, 117 Daviess St.; 270-926-7891.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, Kenergy presents “Familiar Faces” (R&B dance hits) on the Jagoe Homes patio stage.

(6:30pm to 10pm) “Jerry on the Moon” (Contemporary and classic hits 8pm-11:30pm) on the Don Moore Party Pier. “Old Ventures” (acoustic 7pm-10pm) is in the Atmos Energy Courtyard. We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm) and it’s “MAV UP” night at the Kroger Street Fair. Don’t be late for our “toast to the sunset” tonight at dusk! Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is

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calendar Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com

10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12

PRESERVATION STATION Preservation Station Market Days are held the first full weekend of every month. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. with over 100 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. Bring your mom or come buy your mom a last minute Mother’s day gift! Preservation Station Market and Event Center, 9661 Hwy 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday Noon -5 p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www.visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook.

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-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE SUNSET CRUISERS Downtown Cruise-

In August’s theme will be Ford all makes and models are welcome. Enter 3rd and Allen Streets. Enjoy shopping, restaurants and door prizes; 4 – 9 p.m.

CONCERT ON THE LAWN Annual concert by the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra on the front lawn of Kentucky Wesleyan College.

Ticket information available at theoso.com FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

Overlook Stage: Troy Miller – Allen Street Gazebo: TBA.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7

FREE INSIDE OUT – MOVIES ON THE RIVER

Join us for Movies on the River where families come together for FREE films and fun on the riverfront! Concessions available, please do not bring coolers or pets. Emotions run wild in the mind of a little girl who is uprooted from her peaceful life in the Midwest and forced to move to San Francisco in this Pixar adventure. Young Riley was perfectly content with her life until the family moved across country. Now as she prepares for her new life in a new city and a new school, her emotions become very complicated!

PRESERVATION STATION See event description on Saturday, August 6.

MONDAY, AUGUST 8

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 70 OWENSBORO PARENT

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FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long series

of free outdoor concerts held every Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, our title sponsor, Jagoe Homes present “Andy Brasher Band” (Country rock hits) on the Jagoe Homes patio stage. (6:30pm to 10pm) “Old Salt Union” and “The Giving Tree” bands (Americana/Bluegrass rock 8pm-11:30pm) on the Don Moore Party Pier.

“Shawn Brashear” (acoustic 7pm-10pm) is in the Atmos Energy Courtyard. We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm) and it’s our 2nd annual “FA5k walk/run” night at the Kroger Street Fair. Don’t be late for our “toast to the sunset” tonight at dusk!

Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com DIAMOND LAKE RESORT GRAN PRIX GO KART RACE Diamond Lake Resorts is proud to announce the return of the “Gran Prix” the fastest growing competitive go kart race. This professional go kart race has rapidly become an Owensboro tradition! This year’s exciting race is a points race with nearly 100 drivers racing at speeds reaching 95 mph on our streets! You won’t want to miss this exciting event! August 12 – 14 at Diamond Lake Resort.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13

BIG O MUSIC FEST Billy Currington, 38 Special and Mark Chestnutt will take the stage as HEADLINERS for “The Party of the Year” which returns to Reid’s Orchard on Saturday, August 13, 2016! Big Smo, Mo Pitney and Sundy Best also join the lineup performing your favorite hits for a night of great music and fun! General admission tickets are $55.95 and VIP tickets $134.95.

Tickets go on sale Thursday, April 21, 2016 at 11 am, also, available at owensborotickets. com. Tickets will be available at two additional locations, Maloney’s Pizza and Wings, off Hwy 54 in Owensboro, KY and Bud’s Harley-Davidson in Evansville, IN. DANCING WITH OUR STARS “OWENSBORO STYLE” PRESENTED BY THE BOULWARE MISSION Dancing With Our Stars Owensboro Style is Bouleware Mission’s premier fundraiser which sells out each year! Don’t miss this evening of pure elegance, delicious food, great fun and live entertainment!

Dancing With Our Stars Owensboro Style is the talk of the town as local celebrities show their dancing skills competing for the mirror ball trophy; 7 p.m. at Owensboro Convention Center.

LANHAM BROTHERS JAMBOREE AT DIAMOND LAKE “GOOD TIME” THEATER Come and enjoy a night of family entertainment with great country, bluegrass, and gospel music, hilarious comedy with audience participation, and lots of dancing!

Featuring the talented performing artists- Joe Christian, Skylar Cain, Annabelle Watts, Jeff Hardesty, Leland Isbill and Paul Moseley.

Also, the fan favorite, Foot Stompin’ Express Cloggers! Enjoyable fun for all ages!! 7– 9 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door or

online at www.lanhambrothersjamboree.com.

FREE Family Movie Matinee at DCPL 2 -4 p.m.

Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

Overlook Stage: Hayley Payne Band – Allen Street Gazebo: Chuck & Alyssa.

OWENSBORO SOAP BOX DERBY Enjoy the fun all day! 400 Booth Field Road DIAMOND LAKE RESORT GRAN PRIX GO KART RACE See event description on Friday, August 12.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14

DIAMOND LAKE RESORT GRAN PRIX GO KART RACE See event description on Friday, August 12.

OWENSBORO SOAP BOX DERBY Enjoy the fun all day! 400 Booth Field Road

MONDAY, AUGUST 15

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

TUESDAY, AUGUST 16

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

FREE BLUEGRASS ON THE BANK Enjoy some

live music at the River Overlook stage in Smothers Park at the north end of Frederica Street on every first and third Tuesday now through September from 7 – 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 Kentucky riverfront.

The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5. This week at Friday After 5, Owensboro Grain presents “The Springs” (Country rock hits) on the Jagoe Homes patio stage. (6:30pm to 10pm) “Josh Merritt” Band (classic southern rock 8pm-11:30pm) on the Don Moore Party Pier.

“Chris Joslin” (Bluegrass 7pm-10pm) is in the Atmos Energy Courtyard. We’ll feature “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm) and it’s a special salute to Agriculture Night at the Kroger Street Fair. Don’t be late for our “toast to the sunset” tonight at dusk!

Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com 2016 OHIO VALLEY CORNHOLE CHAMPIONSHIP Cornhole King Tournament, www.OwensboroParent.com

Professional, and Amateur Tournament; Cash prizes available for all tournaments! August 19 -20 at Owensboro Convention Center; For more information call 270-314-4419.

and bluegrass music from Randy Lanham and friends; 9 – 11:30 a.m. at Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline; Tickets are $50 per person.

ANNUAL STREET LEGENDS CAR SHOW AT DIAMOND LAKE RESORT This 2-day annual event was voted one of the top 20 events in the Southeast United States, and has become one of the premiere automotive events in the Tri-State area. Over 600 cars will be on display with lots of fun and entertainment for the entire family! Door prizes and CASH drawings each day! Plan to spend the entire 2 days, you don’t want to miss this fantastic event! For pre-registration information and other details, see Street Legends Facebook page.

SUMMER YOGA SERIES: SEVA DOWNTOWN Riverfront Seva=Self-less service. We are Yogis in Service. The classes are donation based.

All proceeds are given to our organization in need/charity of the month. This summer, The Yoga Loft KY will be offering free yoga to the community at Smothers Park in Owensboro.

This class is open to the community and all ages and skill levels are welcome. Yoga is healing and health supportive. We want as many people as possible to practice yoga in our community. Whether you are a beginner to experienced practitioner come out to enjoy the sunshine and yoga! Place: Smothers Park, The Overlook or The McConnell Plaza (grassy area behind Lure Seafood and Grille/The Hampton Inn) 9-10 a.m. Announcements the day prior will be made as prior reservations (weddings or other events) may shift exact location. Cost: $5 Donation. All proceeds will be given to the charity of the month. Limited mats and blocks will be available. Please bring your own if available to you. No registration is required, just show up ready to have fun and play!

Please sign waiver before class starts.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20

18TH ANNUAL OWENSBORO MULTICULTURAL FAIR Enjoy a day of learning about other cultures through food, performances and lots of fun! First Presbyterian Church, 1328 Griffith Avenue.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2

-4 p.m. Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor

concert series on Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

Overlook Stage: Zoe Speaks – Allen Street Gazebo: Firestorm.

BANJOS & BRUNCH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Enjoy a delicious southern lunch, a silent auction,

www.OwensboroParent.com

2016 OHIO VALLEY CORNHOLE CHAMPIONSHIP See event description on Friday, August 19.

ANNUAL STREET LEGENDS CAR SHOW AT DIAMOND LAKE RESORT See event description on Friday, August 19.

MONDAY, AUGUST 22

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

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

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY; All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24

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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25

FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and

younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW 2016 AKC All Breed Dog Show along with obedience & rally trials. 100’s of dogs from all over the U.S. & a few foreign countries. Enjoy the competition, watch the grooming process & learn more about dogs. Vendors onsite with canine products. Bring the family & enjoy the fur! August 25 and 27 – Owensboro River City Kennel Club; August 26 and 28 – Southern Indiana Kennel Club; August 29 – Evansville Kennel Club; Owensboro Convention Center.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26

FREE FRIDAY AFTER 5 A summer-long

series of free outdoor concerts held every

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Friday on the eight block, stunningly beautiful Owensboro, Kentucky riverfront. The festival includes live bands, family events, food and entertainment and our “Toast to the Sunset” at each Friday After 5.

This week Kentucky Wesleyan College presents “7 Bridges” (Ultimate Eagles Tribute Band) on the Jagoe Homes patio stage. (6:30pm to 10pm) “Calabash” (Popular Dance Rock 8pm-11:30pm) on the Don Moore Party Pier. “King’s Highway” (Bluegrass 7pm-10pm) is in the Atmos Energy Courtyard. We’ll feature the “Rock a Teens” and “up and coming artists and musicians” on the Cromwell Radio New Sound Overlook stage (7pm) and it’s a special salute to non-profits and “Over the Edge for MentorKids” at the Kroger Street Fair. Don’t be late for our “toast to the sunset” tonight at dusk! Fun. Free. Friends. Friday After 5 is Where the Weekend Begins! www.FridayAfter5.com RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW 2016 See event description on Thursday, August 25.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 FREE FAMILY MOVIE MATINEE AT DCPL 2 -4 p.m. Daviess County

Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE LIVE ON THE BANKS is a free, outdoor concert series on

Saturday nights May through September at the River Overlook Stage in Downtown Owensboro, KY. Presented by the City of Owensboro.

Overlook Stage: Chasen Little Group – Allen Street Gazebo: Pickin’ In The Park.

SUMMER YOGA SERIES: SEVA DOWNTOWN Riverfront Seva=Selfless service. We are Yogis in Service. The classes are donation based.

All proceeds are given to our organization in need/charity of the month. This summer, The Yoga Loft KY will be offering free yoga to the community at Smothers Park in Owensboro. This class is open to the community and all ages and skill levels are welcome. Yoga is healing and health supportive. We want as many people as possible to practice yoga in our community. Whether you are a beginner to experienced practitioner come out to enjoy the sunshine and yoga!

Place: Smothers Park, The Overlook or The McConnell Plaza (grassy area behind Lure Seafood and Grille/The Hampton Inn) 9-10 a.m.

Announcements the day prior will be made as prior reservations (weddings or other events) may shift exact location. Cost: $5 Donation. All proceeds will be given to the charity of the month.

Limited mats and blocks will be available. Please bring your own if available to you. No registration is required, just show up ready to have fun and play! Please sign waiver before class starts.

RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW 2016 See event description on Thursday, August 25.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW 2016 See event description on Thursday, August 25.

MONDAY, AUGUST 29 FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time

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

RIVER VALLEY CLUSTER DOG SHOW 2016 See event description on Thursday, August 25.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 30 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31 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 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

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