HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A proclamation was signed at the Christian County Fiscal Court meeting on April 8 as city and county officials joined to celebrate the Month of the Military Child. Multiple events have been schedule through April to engage the community in support and fun.
Christian County Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam, Mayor James Knight of Hopkinsville, and Mayor Jackie Oliver of Oak Grove all read the proclamation in support of military families across the region, and recognized April 15 as Purple Up Day where the community is encouraged to wear purple.
Upcoming events have been planned to highlight the unique challenges military children face while offering opportunities for fun, connection, and community engagement. “These events aim to honor the contributions of military children and families who make sacrifices daily. Through these activities, we hope to create a supportive, inclusive environment where military families and community members can come together to celebrate and connect,” said a news release from the Military Affairs Committee.
Paint and Skate Event on April 12, 2025
On April 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., military children, families, and community members are invited to the Paint and Skate Event at the local skate park. In partnership with DAD’s House, a local non-profit organization, the event will offer the opportunity to help repaint the skate park while enjoying food, drinks, bounce houses, and door prizes, while supplies last. Volunteers are encouraged to arrive at 8 a.m. to help with setup, with tear down expected by 4 p.m. Participants are encouraged to wear purple in honor of the military children and the military community.
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Hams for Heroes on April 17, 2025
On April 17, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Hams for Heroes event will be hosted at the Equestrian Center in Oak Grove, sponsored by Oak Grove Racing and Gaming, the City of Oak Grove, and Hopkinsville, Trigg, Todd, and Christian County. This event, for active-duty military personnel, guardsmen, and reservists, will provide a free ham meal. From 1 p.m. until supplies last, the event will open to all veterans, soldiers, and their families. Military identification (DD214, VA Card) will be required.
Military Child Bowling Night on April 22, 2025
The Military Child Bowling Night, hosted by Southern Lanes Hopkinsville and sponsored by White’s Automall, will take place on April 22, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Military children will bowl and eat for free, and hourly prizes will be awarded throughout the event. Additionally, local school bowling teams will be present to mentor military children and showcase the bowling programs from Christian County Public Schools and Heritage Christian Academy.
For more information or to volunteer, please contact the MAC at 270-881-6222.