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What to Do? Volunteer to Help Clean up BBQ Event

What to Do? Volunteer to Help Clean up BBQ Event
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By Ro Morse
Sep. 02, 2012 | PADUCAH, KY
By Ro Morse Sep. 02, 2012 | 05:46 PM | PADUCAH, KY
For the next 276 days, we'll be sharing places to go and things to enjoy in our interesting town. This is my hometown and when I hear someone say there's nothing to do, I just don't get it. We're making a list of options and attractions and hope this helps when you're wondering what to do. If there's something or some place you want others in our community to know about, email me ro@wkyx.com and we'll try to include it during this 365-day adventure . . .

Link to the previous JULY and AUGUST postings at bottom of  page.

September 30
#89 There's always room for a few more volunteers to step up to the plate to help clean up after the gigantic barbecue festival on Paducah's riverfront. 

The cookers and organizers are bushed following all the festivities and need some fresh faces to show up and help with final clean up. The city and other local organizaitons do the hard stuff and the big heavy clean-up, but there are always little things to do to help with the final picking up and spiffing up our downtown..... 


September 29
#88 The United Way 5K Run and Fitness Walk takes place today starting and finishing at Paducah Bank in downtown Paducah. 

This 5K run and walk welcomes around 400 runners Saturday morning. My son-in-law from Greeneville, TN ran for the first time in a 5K. Our 13-year-old granddaughter, also from Greeneville, came in 2nd place in her age group. Our daughter-in-law, visiting from San Francisco, also ran. It's a crisp fall morning - perfect for a brisk run to support local non-profits. You'll be right on the edge of this year's BBQ festival so walk on over to some of the best BBQ you can find as cookers are competing and being judged this morning. Winners will be announced mid-afternoon. For more info: www.bbqontheriver.org

 
September 28
#87 The BBQ Media Cook-off is tonight so go downtown around and be part of the fun. 

It's an iron chef type competition where the different media groups are given some items to incorporate with each other and see who comes up with the most beautiful, most original and most flavorful. There's naturally a lot of rivalry amoung the media so this ought to be interesting. For more details" www.bbqontheriver.org.  


September 27
#86 Today Paducah's 18th Ever BBQ on the River officially begins at 11 am.  

The 18th Ever BBQ on the River is officially underway. It's raining but not for long. . . nothing stops this serious fun in downtown Paducah. Be sure to get to the riverfront sometime between noon today and 8 Saturday night for some of the best barbecue and fixins anywhere around. For more info:  www.bbqontheriver.org.


September 26
#85 PorkStock is this evening starting at 6 on the downtown parking lot in front of stage set up in opening of the floodwall.

This event supports the Barbecue on the River festivities and kicks of the following three days of barbecueing bliss on Paducah's riverfront. Get tickets ahead of time or just show up. This event supports the Barbecue on the River festivities and kicks of three full days of barbecueing bliss on Paducah's riverfront. Get tickets ahead of time or just show up. For more info: www.bbqontheriver.org.  


September 25
#84 The


September 24
#83 


September 23
#82 


September 22
#81 The infield of Carson Park Fairgrounds is full of tractors and all kinds of gas engines tonight!  

Lone Oak Lions Club is hosting its 35th Antique Tractor and Engine Show at Carson Park Fairgrounds this weekend, September 21-23. Lots of antique tractors, tractor pulls, a few classic cars and motorcycles, good food that includes BBQ and funnel cakes, and a large flea market. Admission to the event is $4 and children under 12 get in free. Past beneficiaries of the show include local organizations such as Martha’s Vineyard, Paducah Cooperative Ministries, Lone Oak Park, River City Missions, and many others.


September 21
#80 The opening reception for the Paducah Shool of Art Jewelry & Meal Exhibit is this evening.

The Paducah School of Art/West Kentucky Community & Technical College is pleased to announce its presentation of Paducah School of Art Jewelry and Metals Invitational, featuring a selection of works by leading artists employing a contemporary approach to the art of metalsmithing. The works on display will include wearable works of art as well as small sculptural objects, with and without functional purpose. The exhibition will be presented in the Clemens Gallery at Clemens Fine Arts Center and an opening reception will be hosted today, between 5 and 7 pm. Exhibiting artists include Lynnette Andreason (Meza, AZ), Alicia Boswell (Boise, ID), Shannon Duffy (Kentucky Dam Village State Park, KY), Danielle Embry, Jill Baker Gower (Sewell, NJ), Doug Harling (Hindman, KY), Nissa Kubly (Phoenix, AZ), Mel Miller (Brunswick, AUS), Mary Hallam Pearse (Athens, GA), Sarah Perkins (Springfield, MO), and Sarah Renshaw (Carbondale, IL). The exhibition is free and open to the public. 
  
Clemens Gallery is located in the Clemens Fine Arts Center on the campus of West Kentucky Community & Technical College at 4810 Alben Barkley Drive in Paducah. Gallery hours: Mondays, 10 am-3 pm; Tuesday, 1 pm- 3 pm; Wednesdays, 10 am-3 pm; Thursdays, 11 am-3pm; closed Fridays.


September 20
#79 There's just something about touching a big truck, tractor, fire engine, police car, any heavy equipment, that fascinates children (and some adults). When kids get to meet the ones who operate these "BIG TRUCKS", it's even more fascinating and informative for them.
 

My little 2-year-old grandson sits on a BIG BIG tractor during the annual Touch a Truck event today from 10 am-noon, in the Farmers’ Market parking lot in downtown Paducah. Hosted by the Paducah Parks Services, Touch A Truck is a free event where kids, teachers, and families can see and touch various types of vehicles including a helicopter, fire truck, ambulance, tow truck, concrete mixer, dump truck, garbage truck, trolley, and police car.  Participants also get to meet the people who operate the vehicles on a daily basis. 

School groups and church groups are asked to call 270-444-8508 to pre-register.  Individuals do not need to pre-register.  Bus and public parking will be available in the downtown parking lot across from Whaler’s Catch.  Bus drivers are asked to drop students off at 2nd and Jefferson Streets. 
For more information about Parks-sponsored activities contact the Parks Services Department at 270-444-8508 or visit www.paducahky.gov.  
 

September 19
#78 It's exciting to watch the Dragon Boat Teams practice together for the first time on Paducah's riverfront. 

The 26 Dragon Boat teams are all from the Paducah area except for one team that comes from Eastern KY - a group of breast cancer survivors who travel around the country racing in their pink dragon boat. They won't be bringing their boat to Paducah on Saturday, but they will have their pink paddles. 

Watching the boats practice individually, hearing the excitement and seeing their competitive spirits as a whole is invigorating. All the activity on the riverfront today is exciting. The Queen of the Mississippi is also docked at the riverfront which makes it even more interesting.  


September 18
#77 Visit the Market House Museum and learn about Paducah history that will surprise and amaze you.

In the center section of the 1905 Market House in Paducah's historic downtown, you'll find a jewel with Paducah history oozing out of every nook and cranny. Our river town has rich and colorful history that surprises me everytime I visit. The collection of photographs, artifacts and exhibits will give anyone who visits a deeper understanding and appreciation of our river town. The William Clark Market House Museum is a hidden treasure that I hope anyone who reads this will takes time to visit.  

If Penny is there, be sure to ask her to show you some of her favorites. Open Monday - Saturday from noon until 4 pm, March through mid-December. They do close on Sundays and major holidays. If you have a group that would like to take a tour, call 270-443-7759 and they will accommodate you. For lots more info: www.markethousemuseum.com


September 17
#76
Western Baptist Hospital’s Annual Golf Tournament invites golfers to come out and play today to benefit regional healthcare needs, first-come, first-serve to be part of the scramble.   

Western Baptist Foundation hosts today’s scramble at the Country Club of Paducah. Morning and afternoon times are reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. For information, phone 270-575-2871. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place teams, as well as contest hole winners, in the morning and afternoon rounds. Each player also will receive a gift and lunch. A silent auction will feature a 2011 British Senior Open flag from the Walton Heath Golf Club signed by the winner, PGA professional Russ Cochran of Paducah. The tournament also will showcase a 25-foot dragster driven by Keith Murt, owner of Murtco, Inc. The event raised more than $80,000 last year, with more than 180 golfers participating. In four years, the tournament has netted nearly $300,000 to benefit Western Baptist Hospital and help meet the healthcare needs of the region.


September 16
#75
Ever want to be a judge in a fun art project? This is your opportunity

All fire plugs in Lower Town are complete, which means that voting in the popular "Paint the Plugs" contest has begun. “Paint the Plugs” is a community art project in which members of the community applied to paint specified fire hydrants with unique personal designs. This project promotes creative arts while also celebrating the arts culture in Lower Town. The 15 designs that were selected are now able to be viewed on Monroe, Madison and Harrison Streets in the Lower Town neighborhood.
 
The popular vote contest album is at our Facebook page by clicking here: 
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.432070036836772.91882.222509394459505&type=3.
Vote by clicking "like" next to your favorite photo on the Facebook page. According to PRA, you can vote for as many as you "like", but vote only once for a particular plug:) Voting is open to the whole community through October 13.

First, second and third place winners will be announced at the Paint the Plugs Celebration on October 13 in Lower Town, complete with live music, food and extended gallery hours. Winners will receive “PRA Bucks” to be redeemed at any business in the Renaissance Area. If you have any questions, call the PRA office at 270-444-8649, or email at info@paducahalliance.org .


September 15
#74 Learn more about what Paducah has to offer for parents-to-be during a free Child Birth class at Western Baptist Hospital.  

Parents-to-be can learn about the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), receive useful information and tour the Birthing Center at Western Baptist Hospital’s annual free Childbirth Fair from 10 am to noon in the atrium of Doctor’s Office Building 2. The fair also features vendors with giveaways and door prizes. Expectant parents can register for the hospital’s free maternity program, StorkCentral, which includes:
·A free copy of the Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
·An invitation to StorkSmart, an educational program with hospital staff, and free classes.
·A StorkCentral coupon book filled with discounts from participating merchants.


September 14
#73 If you like to collect sports memorabilia, head to Kentucky Oaks Mall for a show that is going on all weekend.
 
Sports Collector Show is taking place in the Dillard's Court and is open during mall hours. They have put together an interesting show with vendors displaying sports cards and collector items that sports fans will enjoy. Stop by and see if that rare find may be in the collection. For more info, www.kentuckyoaksmall.com
 

September 13
#72 Get your season tickets to the Paducah Symphony Orchestra's performances.

With the news of Conductor and Artistic Director Raffaele Ponti extending his contract with the symphony through 2016, you can be assured the upcoming season will be spectacular and full of surprises. Sales have already exceeded the 800 mark, which is an increase of over 230 tickets sold from last year.

Season tickets and single performance tickets are currently being sold online at www.paducahsymphony.org or by calling the symphony office at 270-444-0065. New season ticket subscribers can purchase season tickets for 50% off the regular price. 


September 12
#71 If you're uncertaain about specific aspects of using your computer, the McCracken County Public Library offers One on One time today from 1-2 pm.

Go to the second floor computer lab at the McCracken County Public Library, 555 Washington St. in downtown Paducah, across from Dolly McNutt Plaza. Log on for one-on-one computer assistance. Bring your questions and computer issues and get personalized help from the library's friendly tech staff or call 270-442-2510 for more info.

Additional Computer Labs
The McCracken County Public Library has a total of 44 internet computers available for public use in two computer labs (24 on the first floor and 20 in the second floor Teen Tech Lab). A current library card is required. Cards used by anyone other than the card owner will have internet privileges removed. Access is limited to 120 minutes per day. The first five pages of printing are free. Subsequent pages are 10 cents per page. Computers are equipped with the Microsoft Office suite including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. It is important to read the full Internet and Computer Policy here.

Laptops:
If you prefer to work elsewhere in the library other than the computer labs, the library offers laptops for check-out. Laptops are available for check-out in the second floor Teen Tech Lab. Laptops must remain inside the building at all times. A valid KY driver’s license is required and will be held by the library while the laptop is in use. A current library card is required. Access is limited to 120 minutes per day. Unused time may not be used at the desktop internet computers.

Other Public-Use Computers
The library also offers public-use computers for specific, non-recreational uses. These include:
•Genealogy and Local History Research
•Law Research through the Westlaw database
•Searching the catalog and checking your library account


September 11
#70 Take time to remember the 9-11 tragedy in New York City, appreciating our freedoms and liberties and all those who make it possible. 

This isn't just a local "thing to do". It's an everywhere in our country "thing to ponder".  Today in America we pause and thank God that we live in a country where we truly are free to speak, worship, vote, work, play and raise our families as we choose...opportunities that we take for granted. It's been eleven years since we heard on the radio and saw on the tv, the tragic sounds and images of the planes crashing into the Twin Towers in NYC. Our lives did change, for some more than others. This day is a reminder to all of us how blessed we are-even on our worst days, to live in this great country.

Locally, Paducah Police, members of the McCracken Sheriff's Department, local firefighters and EMS personnel are invited to a 9-11 First Responder Appreciation Lunch today, hosted by Paducah/McCracken County Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). The lunch is offered from 11:30 until 1 pm to allow people to attend as their schedules allow. The offerings will include hamburgers, chips, soda, cookies and brownies. The lunch is being held next to the Mercy Ambulance substation at 501 S. 6th St.   


September 10
#69 Yeiser Art Center changes exhibits regularly and has opening receptions for the public, as each exhibition begins.

Now showing is the work of Rob Millard-Mendez: A Feeble Armada Exhibition. Through Saturday, Sept. 22, his art will be available for the public to see at Yeiser Art Center Gallery in the historic Market House at the 200 Broadway entrance. Life on the water is the current theme of both exhibitions at the Yeiser Art Center. Eleven boat sculptures by artist Rob Millard-Mendez will be on display in addition to work from the Yeiser Art Center's permanent collection.


September 9
#68 When you live in a rivertown, there's no place like the riverfront to read, relax and simply watch people.

This is one of those days when the air is fresh, the sky is blue and the temps are just perfect. We're fortunate to be able to walk, ride or drive to our riverfront. Some criticize this laid-back, small town past time, but if you've never taken a lazy Sunday afternoon along the riverfront in downtown Paducah, try it. You'll see why it's a way of life, a break from the fast-paced day to day routine.  


September 8
#67 Kids and adults alike find Paducah's Railroad Museum interesting and fun as its staff adds visitor-friendly activities and attractions. 
  

There are hundreds, maybe thousands of Paducahans who are more than casually interested in the history of the railroad in our community. If you haven't been to their museum, across from the Carson Center in downtown Paducah, it's well worth your time to visit. Today they will have a Story Hour for Children. It will be hosted by Amy Blewett, who will read "Kate Shelley and the Midnight Express" and provide related crafts and games. There will be three sessions sat 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. I took my granddaughter and nephew last time they offered this and they were fascinated. We will definitely return. Regular admission price is $1 for children 12 and under, and $3 for adults. Admission includes all the museum displays, exhibits, the model trains, Thomas the Tank Engine, and for older children and adults, the locomotive simulator. Stay as long as you like. It's a great value and a learning experience. For more info, call 270-908-6451.


September 7
#66 You'll have three weekends to see "9 to 5" as the Market House Theatre opens its 49th Season with this hilarious musical. Tonight's play starts at 7:30.

You'll recognize the lively music and lyrics written by Dolly Parton or you may have read the book by Patricia Resnick. The popular 20th Century Fox film featuring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin was adapted into a Broadway musical, and as we've come to expect, the MHT crew will bring all the fun to the stage. MHT offers children and adult productions. This one is in their adult series and is recommended for high school age and older. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for students ages 21 and under. *Tickets are all $16 for the Saturday matinee on September 15th. The show runs September 6-9, 13-16, and 21-22, with performances on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Sunday afternoons at 2:30.  Learn more: www.mhtplay.com


September 6
#65 Noon on Thursdays, drop by the Pasta House Company and get inspired to speak more confidently in front of groups. It's Toastmasters! You'll be surprised how this group of local leaders and business people can help build your confidence.  

Most people have a lack of self confidence when it come to speaking in front of large or small groups. Thursday is the day to practice with the help and wisdom of friends and other leaders. In Paducah, the Sam Sloan Chapter of Toastmasters meets on Thursdays at Pasta House. Their purpose is to build the confidence needed to be a good and comfortable public speaker. T\From noon until one, this group provides training in a friendly atmosphere that will help take away the fear of speaking in public. If you know or have heard of Clay Campbell, who owns and manages the KY Opry, you know it will be an informative and entertaining hour. Clay's the one to contact for more info: 270-703-2700.


September 5
#64 It's an art + exercise! Beginners oriental belly dancing classes are growing in popularity. 
 
Right after work today, you can start Beginners Oriental Belly Dancing Classes. They meet at 5 pm at the Parks Dept. building, 1400 H.C. Mathis Dr. Talk about great exercise - this is it. They offer eight classes for $40. Come learn to belly dance and have a blast getting in shape, gaining strength and flexibility as you dance to invigorating oriental music. At least call and get more information: 270-444-8508.


September 4
#63 This is the last week of the 2012 Paducah School of Art Faculty Exhibition at the Clemens Fine Arts Center Gallery on the West KY Community and Technical College (WKCTC) campus.

The exhibit is open to the public and showcases a variety of art by members of the WKCTC faculty. Works on display include drawings, paintings, sculpture, ceramics and photography. The artists/faculty being featured are: Paul Aho, Todd Birdsong, John Hasegawa, BiLan Liao, Lily Liu, Kevin Myers, Linda Ogden, Anita Rodriguez-Fitch, and Randy Simmons. here is no admission fee and runs through Friday, September 7. 
 

September 3
#62  
Union labor helped build Paducah and today organized labor is celebrated downtown.

A parade, concerts, food, activitites for children, a debate about a city/county merger, rededication of the repainted Labor Day mural, and more.  


September 2
#61 I've been hearing about this documentary, 2016 Obama's America . . . today I saw it! Powerful and eye-opening.
 

Our local Cinemark doesn't show documentaries very often. We have a few days to view this one. Every AMERICAN-Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, liberal and conservative needs to see this film. If you love our country, make time to see this while it's in Paducah and decide for yourself. It was a full house and hopefully will be every time it shows. This is not a time in history to assume you know about who is leading our country. See it and make your own decision. Here's the schedule and ticket info: http://www.fandango.com/cinemarkpaducah_aaqlk/theaterpage


September 1
#60 Sample Kentucky-made wine at Purple Toad Winery

There's no way to know what your favorite wine is until you taste if for yourself. Purple Toad Winery, 4275 Old US Highway 45 offers free tasting from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm on Saturdays and throughout the week. Winegrowers Allen and Juen Dossey
 invite you to come walk through their vineyard and sample wines from sweet to dry and Chardonnay to Cabernet Sauvignon. Their Kentucky made wines and cheese are gaining notoriaty in the region. www.purpletoadwinery.net

On the Net:

What to Do? Paducah Fun, Chapter 2 - AUGUST
What to Do? Paducah Fun, Chapter 1 - JULY
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