It’s Halloween and Election season, y’all, so get ready to enjoy fall vibes and civic pride, Bowling Green style! Here at Buy Local Bowling Green, we’re keeping things lively with some can’t-miss events and a quick peek at two big amendments on the ballot this year. From spooky night-outs to the chance to shape our community’s future, it’s all happening right here! Whether you’re dressing up or voting down, we’re here to help you celebrate and stay in the know—because local’s where it’s at. Don’t worry, we don’t endorse candidates and we don’t tell you how to vote.
Bowling Green just got a new hometown hero in headwear—introducing Happy Jack Cap Co., where retro American “trucker” caps meet modern style with a nostalgic twist. Inspired by those classic ‘70s and ‘80s lids, Happy Jack is all about bringing back the bold, straightforward designs that made these caps iconic. Launched right here in Bowling Green, this brand is for everyone who loves a little vintage flair in their everyday wear. Check out their full lineup at happyjackcapco.com and get ready to rep BG in style!
Bowling Green, get ready to slurp some spooky ramen! Join Simply Ramen on October 31st for a night packed with Halloween fun, trivia, and ramen. Rock a costume anytime from Oct 29-31 to snag 10% off, and enter our costume contest during trivia at 7 PM. Plus, 10% of food sales go toward the WKU Film Thesis program . Whether you’re bringing the cosplay heat or just craving a bowl, this Halloween, Simply Ramen is the place to be. Costume up, chow down, and maybe take home the prize!
Bowling Green, if you love spellbinding stories, then clear your Sunday! Join us at Bob Kirby Branch on November 3rd at 3:00 p.m. for an afternoon with acclaimed novelist Katie McGarry. Known for her Witches of the Island series, Pushing the Limits, and more, Katie’s here to chat about her unique brand of love stories and share her world of magical intrigue. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt romance or paranormal twists, you won’t want to miss this. Grab your tickets here.
Listen up, Bowling Green – we’ve got a challenge that’ll put your sweet tooth and your speed to the test! Buy Local Bowling Green and Mercadito Hispano are throwing down the gauntlet: can you eat a whole concha in under one minute, no water allowed? Our guy José says it’s possible, but honestly? We’re not convinced. If you think you’ve got what it takes, prove us wrong! Head to Mercadito Hispano today and see if you can conquer the concha challenge. Let’s see who’s got the quickest bite!
This week, as ballots get filled coast to coast, we at Buy Local Bowling Green want to set the record straight: we’re not in the business of endorsing candidates, whether on a national or local stage. But you know what we are in the business of? Making sure you know what’s up on those Kentucky constitutional amendments in this year’s election. So, let’s break down the big two without any fluff.
Amendment #1: Let’s Talk About Voting Rights
First up, Kentucky Amendment 1 tackles a straightforward question about voting eligibility. Right now, Kentucky’s constitution grants U.S. citizens, aged 18 or older, who meet residence requirements, the right to vote. Amendment 1 proposes adding a bit of extra language—specifically that only U.S. citizens can vote. Here’s the gist:
- Yes Vote: Supporters, including Secretary of State Michael Adams, argue this amendment reinforces election integrity. They say it draws a firm line and “protects election rules,” giving citizens peace of mind.
- No Vote: Opponents, like the ACLU of Kentucky, counter that it’s redundant; noncitizens already can’t vote in Kentucky. They worry it might stir up anti-immigrant sentiment without adding real protections.
In short: A “yes” vote says let’s add extra wording; a “no” vote says let’s leave it alone.
Amendment #2: Let’s Talk About School Funding Options
Next up, Kentucky’s Amendment 2 brings school funding and choice to the forefront. It’s all about who can access taxpayer dollars for education and where those funds can go—public schools only, or beyond. Here’s how it breaks down:
Yes Vote: Supporters see Amendment 2 as a win for parental choice. A “yes” would allow public funds to be used for private school vouchers, charter schools, and educational savings accounts. The argument? Families should have the freedom to decide where their kids’ educational dollars go, whether to local public schools or private institutions.
No Vote: Opponents, on the other hand, are concerned about public school resources. They argue that a “no” vote keeps funds strictly for public schools, helping ensure they stay fully funded. Critics worry that diverting funds to private options could impact public schools’ budgets and overall quality.
In short: A “yes” vote supports expanding taxpayer-funded choices; a “no” vote keeps all public funds directed exclusively to public schools.
Local Label, La Honda Record is releasing some live video of artist Colter Wall on his challenge this week. Make sure to check out “Caroline” Live with Band Members: Colter Wall – Acoustic guitar and vocals Muskrat Jones – Pedal steel guitar Patrick Lyons – Telecaster, baritone guitar, mandolin, dobror Russell Patterson – Drums Jake Groves- Harmonica Jason Simpson- Bass.
**Calling All Business Owners Ready to Make 2025 the Year of Real Change!**
If you’re looking to expand beyond the same-old-same, here’s a power move: start accepting EBT payments. Imagine keeping local dollars in local hands while becoming a true community hero, offering essential foods—like produce, dairy, breads, meats, and even non-hot, ready-to-eat meals (think salads and sandwiches). Every EBT sale is a step toward making sure our neighbors can rely on local businesses, not just big box stores.
Want to know how to make it happen? Message us or shoot an email to BuyLocalBG@gmail.com—we’ll help you turn 2025 into the year you build a bigger, more inclusive community impact.
I work with talented people who help me succeed in each issue with Buy Local Bowling Green. Thanks to Mike Carey who designs the magazine, Victor Olivo and Jose Gonzalez who helped shoot the new photos in the magazine, Connie Collingsworth who creates our awesome covers for each issue and Emily Pannell who makes sure I don’t mangle the English language too much on the inside. Can’t wait till the Magazine comes out in a couple weeks!
