A look inside...
Winter Activities
New Year’s Resolutions
Preparing for Deployment
Healthy Recipes
Text Message Wins Train Ride
The Area’s Best Coffee Shops
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Editor Alex Zapetis
Contributors Dave Marshall CynDe Clack
Publisher Creative ink
Creative Director Sears Hallett
Advertising Kristi Williams 270-484-0463 kristi@creativeinktn.com
Photography mixthatdrink.com jaroflemons.com Deposit Photo pg: Cover, 12, 20, 21, 27, 29, 32
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Happy New Year!! I hope 2019 brings you many laughs and magical memories. It seems like January of every year is the beginning of a new life chapter. It can be such an exciting time! A new year always comes with the opportunity to improve yourself and achieve some personal goals. We have some great information to help you in your journey to reach some of them! We also have some great activities for you and your family to do together so you can begin making lifelong memories from the start of the year! I’m so ready to see what 2019 has to offer, and hopefully you are too. Make 2019 your year!
Alex Zapetis, Editor alex@creativeinktn.com
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The chilly weather has driven a lot of us indoor and we often find ourselves asking “What is there to do today?� Lucky for us, there are so many fun and memorable things to do this winter! Whether it be for a family outing or a day with your spouse, there are so many options for you to enjoy.
Jump to the Sky!
Can You Escape?
Planet 3 Extreme Air Park is a thrilling indoor trampoline park that has over 15,000 square feet of interconnected trampolines. They also have extreme dodgeball, a trapeze, launch pads, foam pits, dunk zones, and even a ninja obstacle course!
Escape games are a new and exciting way for you and your friends to work together and figure out a brain twisting puzzle! There are many different puzzles at each location for you to figure out! Can you escape in time?
310 Needmore Rd | Clarksville planet3clarksville.com
Excape Games | 1943 Fort Campbell Blvd - Clarksville excapegames.com/clarksville
Treat Your Little Bookworm Have a child that loves to read? R.F Sink Library has more than 7,700 books to keep your little one entertained all day. There is a story and craft time every Thursday at 10:30am and 1:30pm for your preschoolers. On Wednesdays at 10am there is also a baby lap sit for you and your infant. 38 Screaming Eagle Blvd Fort Campbell campbell.armymwr.com 5
Covert Escape Games | 480 Warfield Blvd - Clarksville covertescapegames.com
Ice Ice Baby A go-to winter activity is going ice skating! Here in downtown Clarksville they turn a large open lawn into a winter wonderland that can accommodate 150 skaters at a time! 215 Legion Street | 480 Warfield Blvd downtowncommons.org
Black Light Mini Golf
Play with Clay
Do you love to putt putt the day away but it’s been too cold? Then this is the place for you! This indoor mini golf center is Fantasy Forest themed and is decked out with black lights! It also offers 3D glasses to every golfer. D&D Mini Golf not only offers 18 holes of fun, they also have a lazer maze and an arcade room.
Getting to unleash your inner artist can be so fun and rewarding. Come in and get your hands dirty and create some beautiful pottery that can be in your family for generations! Homemade pottery also makes amazing gifts. The Pottery Room | 110 Needmore Road Suite F- Clarksville thepotteryroom.com HorseFeathers | 94 Franklin St. – Clarksville myhorsefeathers.com
211 Holiday Dr | Clarksville | ddminigolf.com
Shoot it Virtual Shots is Clarksville only all virtual gun range. There is no live fire, so it is 100% safe for kids and people of all ages. They have real guns that have been technologically modified with lasers for live fire simulation. Shoot away at zombies, quick draw against outlaws, or play some fun carnival-style games. 130 Corporate Dr | Clarksville | virtual-shots.com
Bowl Baby Bowl Bowling is one of America’s favorite indoor sports. Come grab some rental shoes and your favorite bowling ball and bowl the night away. There are so many bowling alleys in the area to pick and choose from for your night out! Hooper Bowling Center | Tennessee Ave. Bldg. 5380 – Fort Campbell campbell.armymwr.com The Pinnacle Family Entertainment Center 430 Warfield Blvd, Clarksville pinnaclebowl.com 1st Frame Bowl | 3001 Canton Street Hopkinsville | 1stframebowl.com
Connect to Culture Located in downtown Clarksville is the Customs House Museum and Culture Center. It is the state’s second largest general museum. It is over 35,000 square feet of some cool hands-on activities that people of all ages can enjoy. 200 South Second St. | Clarksville customshousemuseum.org
Dance Dance There is no better time to learn some new moves and take dance classes than in the winter! You will have some amazing moves to show off at those summer pool parties! Dance lessons are also an awesome way to keep your little one entertained all winter as well. S.T.A.R.S Dance Studio | 110 Needmore Road Suite F- Clarksville stars-dance-studio.com Clarksville Dance Club | 430 Warfield Blvd – Clarksville theclarkvilledanceclub.com Infinity Dance Academy | 305 N. Riverside Dr. Suite 600 Clarksville infinitydancefa.org
Enjoy the Theatre The Roxy Regional Theater opened in 1983 and has been offering great live shows and cultural experiences ever since. Always keep an eye to the theater’s calendar so you know what days they will be putting on a show. 100 Franklin St. | Clarksville roxyregionaltheatre.org
Create Away Want to get in touch with your creative side? Guenette Arts & Crafts Center offers workshops, classes, and other services for all artistic skill levels. Come in and create the day away! They offer services in ceramics, pottery, leather, and upholstery. They also have a wood working area for all to enjoy. 89 Screaming Eagle Blvd | Fort Campbell campbell.armymwr.com
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Go Taste some Moonshine and Whiskey
Country Music Lover’s Paradise
The Fort Campbell area is home to amazing distilleries. The Old Glory Distilling Company in Clarksville, M.B. Roland in Pembroke, Casey Jones Distillery in Hopkinsville and Leatherwood Distillery in Pleasant View. They all have a tasting bar and offer tours.
If you are a country music fan, then you have heard of the Grand Ole Opry. The Opry is home of many country music legends and new chart-toppers that are following in their footsteps. This concert will be one that you always remember.
Old Glory Distilling Company 451 Alfred Thun Rd - Clarksville oldglorydistilling.com M.B. Roland Distillery 137 Barkers Mill Rd - Pembroke mbroland.com
Grand Ole Opry | 2804 Opryland Drive - Nashville opry.com
Vintage Vehicles Lane Motor Museum features some great art, memorabilia, and cars! This museum has over 150 cars on display on any given day for your viewing pleasure. They are home to three-wheeled cars, unusual cars, and more.
Casey Jones Distillery | 2815 Witty Ln - Hopkinsville caseyjonesdistillery.com Leatherwood Distillery | 6381 US-41 ALT - Pleasant View leatherwooddistillery.com
…Or some Wine If whisky isn’t your cup of tea, there is also Beachaven Winery that allows you to sample some fantastic wines! Come out and taste what delicious things a grape can do! Beachaven Winery 1000 Dunlop Ln - Clarksville beachavenwinery.com
Maybe Even Some Beer Want a place to grab a delicious brew? You are in luck because Clarksville and Hopkinsville are home to some amazing places to grab a cold one. Tennessee Valley Brewing Co 2088 Lowes Dr Ste H – Clarksville tnvalleybrewing.com The Blackhorse Pub & Brewery 132 Franklin St. – Clarksville blackhorsebrews.com Strawberry Alley Ale Works 103 Strawberry Alley – Clarksville saaleworks.com The Star Spangled Brewing Co | 1030 Progress Dr Suite E - Clarksville starspangledbrewingco.com Hopkinsville Brewing Co | 102 E 5th St – Hopkinsville hopkinsvillebrewingcompany.com
702 Murfreesboro Pk | Nashville lanemotormuseum.org
A Presidential Plantation This historical plantation and museum is located in Davidson County, TN. The plantation was owned by Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States. It is a great piece of history to explore and see. 4580 Rachels Ln | Hermitage thehermitage.com
Science Adventure Adventure Science Center is a museum for children with over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits with themes including biology, physics, visual perception, air and space, energy and earth science. The center has 44,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 75-foot-tall adventure tower and the Sudekum Planetarium. 800 Fort Negley Blvd | Nashville adventuresci.org
Swing Batter Batter
City Forum Fun
This museum is a baseball lover’s dream come true! The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is an amazing place to learn all about baseball’s past, present, and future.
The City Forum is a one stop shop for all things that are fun for families! They have high-speed go-carts, laser tag, a bowling lounge, an arcade, mini golf, bumper cars and a play escape all in the same building!
800 West Main St | Louisville KY sluggermuseum.com
2231-T Madison St. | Clarksville thecityforum.com
Gather 2 by 2
Drive-Thru Zoo
This bible story comes to life at the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, KY. The Ark is a life-sized remake of Noah’s Ark. It is home to some exotic animals, a zip line tour, and a two-story restaurant. This is a great family friendly attraction. 1 Ark Encounter Dr. Williamstown KY arkencounter.com
It may be a little too chilly to walk through a regular zoo, so a drive-thru zoo is perfect for this winter weather. Guest can pet and feed over 80 species of animals at the Tennessee Safari Zoo. 618 Conley Rd | Alamo tennesseesafaripark.com
Under the Sea Aquariums are great options when the outside air is a little too chilly. You never get too old to mask in the beauty of the undersea world. The Tennessee Aquarium is the top rated aquarium in the world in overall guest satisfaction
Discover Some Fun The Discovery Park is located in Union City, TN and has some amazing experiences waiting for you! They are home to an earthquake simulator and some fascinating preserved skeletons of a T-Rex and many other dinosaurs.
1 Broad St | Chattanooga tnaqua.org
Skate Date Roller skating has always been a great indoor activity for anyone to enjoy. It can be such a blast to skate around to the beat of the music as lights flash all around you! Plus, it can be a great way to get some exercise and energy out Rainbo Skating Center | 2631 41 A Bypass – Clarksville rainbowskatecenter.com Magic Wheels Fun Center | 1671 Fort Campbell Blvd – Clarksville magicwheelsfun.com Roller Dome Fun Plex | 1230 Skyline Dr.- Hopkinsville rollerdomefunplex.com
830 Everett Blvd | Union City discoveryparkofamerica.com
Go for a Swim You don’t have to stop splashing around just because the temperature has dropped! Indoor pools are great ways to get some exercise during the winter months. Swimming is an activity that the whole family loves! Gardner Indoor Pool | Kentucky Ave. Bldg. 2191 - Fort Campbell campbell.armymwr.com Indoor Aquatic Center at New Providence | 166 Cunningham Ln - Clarksville cityofclarksville.com 8
Dine with Fishy Friends
Climb to the Top
The Aquarium Restaurant in Nashville, TN is a large seafood & steak restaurant that is decorated by a huge fish tank filled with tropical sea creatures. It is an unforgettable experience the whole family will enjoy.
Indoor climbing gyms are a great way to stay in shape and get some energy out during the winter. It is such a thrill to be able to race to the top against your family and friends. Who doesn’t love to have some bragging rights? The also have a kids wall to provide fun for all.
516 Opry Mills Dr | Nashville aquariumresturants.com
Clarksville Climbing Gym | 119 West Dunbar Cave Road- Clarksville facebook.com/ClarksvilleClimbing
Civil War Tour
Challenge Course and Indoor Climbing Wall | Fort Campbell 11th Airborne Division Road Bldg 6621-K campbell.armymwr.com
If you are a history buff, then Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center is the place for you. Come learn about some of Clarksville’s history and watch many great reenactors and presenters. It is a great activity for all ages.
Eagle Watching Did you know that you can see some beautiful eagles this winter season? Eagle spotting at Land Between the Lakes has become one of the most popular and breathtaking events each winter season in the Kentucky Lake area. Special van tours of eagles are offered in January. See page 19 for details.
120 Duncan St | Clarksville ftdefianceclarksville.com
Let It Snow Did you know that snow skiing is just a drive away from the Fort Campbell area? Skiing is a classic winter activity that is guaranteed to leave you with some unforgettable family memories! Pigeon Forge Snow | 2533 Teaster Ln - Pigeon Forge, TN pigeonforgesnow.com Ober Gatlinburg | 1310 Ski Mountain Rd - Gatlinburg, TN obergatlinburg.com Paoli Peaks | 2798 W County Rd 25 S - Paoli, IN paolipeaks.com
Wilderness at the Smokies This resort is a one stop shop for an unforgettable family vacation! There is so many winter activities for your family to enjoy. They offer ice skating, rope courses, laser tag, and more! Your family will also enjoy the indoor swimming, wave pool, arcade and more.
238 Visitor Center Dr Golden Pond, KY lbl.org
Land Between the Lakes As one of the largest playgrounds in the country, the Land Between the Lakes has more than enough to do to keep your whole family satisfied for weeks. You can check out some of the wildlife at the Elk and Bison Prairie or see an authentic 1850s farm on the property.
Look at the Stars When you visit the Golden Pond Planetarium, you will enjoy a variety of entertaining and educational programs presented with our Konica Minolta Mediaglobe II digital projection system which displays exciting images on the 40-foot dome of the theater. Land Between the Lakes • Golden Pond, KY 238 Visitor Center Dr | 800-525-7077 | landbetweenthelakes.us
1424 Old Knoxville Hwy | Sevierville TN wildernessatthesmokies.com
Many people use the New Year to start working towards a challenging personal goal that they might have. It is always an exciting feeling to work hard for something that you really want for yourself or for others. We asked spouses here at Fort Campbell what New Year’s Resolutions they have for 2019! If you haven’t set one for yourself yet, maybe you can take inspiration from these ladies! For me personally, my resolution is to get back into running! I used to love running and exercising before I had my two boys. It was always a great feeling every time I beat my previous record. Alex from South Carolina “My New Year’s resolution is to lose this baby weight, have a healthier lifestyle, and spend more time as a family with no phones.” Chelsea from Florida “A goal that I have for myself is to go back to school in 2019. I would really like to start a career of my own.” Brittnee from Texas “I plan to start being more organized. My house has started to become cluttered and it is driving me nuts!” Amy from California “My resolution is to start being more active and spending more time outside. I want to limit my children’s screen time and we all get involved in more outdoor activities.” Carrie from Maine “It’s going to be hard for me, but I want to become a vegetarian in 2019. If I am feeling really brave I might try becoming vegan. I just heard it makes you feel so much better.” Amanda from West Virginia
“Hopefully I will be able to cut out coffee in 2019. I realized the other day that I am dependent on it and I spend way too much money on it.” McKenzie from New Mexico “I plan on taking my studies more seriously in 2019. I’m going to turn my C’s into A’s.” Kaitlyn from South Carolina “My husband and I decided that our resolution will be to start building up our savings account. We plan on cutting back where we can so any extra money we have can go towards building it up.” Emily from California “I just want to start drinking more water! I heard it’s great for your skin and health, and I know I don’t drink nearly enough.” Hailey from Washington “I haven’t made one for myself yet, but my husband has decided to stop smoking in January. I am proud of him and I hope he sticks to it.” Christie from Alabama
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Deployment is a word that a lot of military families dread. It is easily one of the hardest parts about having a loved one in the military. For me personally, my family is about to go through its first one. We have been extremely lucky that my husband has been in the Army for about 4 years now, and we are just now facing our first deployment. It seems as though deployments aren’t talked about enough in terms of the struggles that families and soldiers face when they are forced apart. That is why I wish to take all of you on this journey with me. I hope that by me writing about my current struggles and feelings that it can help another family going through something similar in the process. If anyone wishes to reach out and just have someone to talk to, please feel free to email me at Alex@creativeinktn.com. When people say a deployment is 6, 9, or 12 months long, they don’t realize it starts way before then. The preparation for the deployment can be very stressful for a family as well. The preparation stage is currently where my family and I are at. I never realized before now how fast days can fly by. The to-do list keeps getting longer and longer, and I just wish I could freeze time. Part of me doesn’t want to accept that he is leaving. I try and block out the thought of him being gone, but it is always pushed back into my mind when he comes home with a new packing list or paperwork that needs to be done. It honestly seems like there is something new that needs to be done every single day.
by Alex Zapetis
I constantly find myself wanting to make every moment we have left together as a family special and memorable. We have a 1 ½ year old and a 6 month old, so I’ve been taking so many pictures and videos of my husband with them. It kills me to think about all that he is going to miss when he is gone. He will be leaving when our youngest is a baby, but he will be returning to a toddler. He is going to miss both of their birthdays, along with our anniversary and both of our birthdays. I already know they aren’t going to be the same without him. It’s going to feel like a piece of the puzzle is missing. My little family loaded up and visited our bigger family for my husband’s pre-deployment leave. It was so nice to see everyone and get to make some more memories before he leaves. We caught up with some old friends, got to go on a few fun dates, went to some Christmas lights, and visited an aquarium. I won’t lie though, the entire time we were on leave my heart was slowly breaking. Every day I was reminded that he was leaving soon. Every day I woke up thinking about how we were another day closer to his deployment date. I tell myself every day that I have to be strong for my husband and our boys. I constantly remind myself that being sad and upset won’t help anyone, but I also tell myself that it is okay to be upset. Being apart from your spouse will never get easier. When they deploy, they take a piece of you with them. For now, I am going to make the best out of the time we have left. I am going to spoil my husband and let him know how much I love and care about him. I am going to make sure he knows how much he will be missed. I am truly thankful and blessed to have such an amazing husband, and he’s going to know that.
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Feeding Clarksville’s Hungry The Fort Campbell Spouses’ Club has selected Loaves & Fishes as this month’s spotlight charity. Loaves & Fishes was started as a way to help feed the hungry of Clarksville, TN. The mission started in 1983 when several women from the Trinity Episcopal Church served soup every Wednesday. This made them realize there was a need for a daily lunch, so these ladies along with the help of First Presbyterian, Immaculate Conception Catholic and Madison Street United Methodist Churches, started “Loaves and Fishes.” Loaves and Fishes has been held at the First Presbyterian Church Activities and Outreach Center since January 1999. They also operate a Food Distribution Center that is used by 27 qualified agencies. Loaves and Fishes amazingly serves between 150-200 fresh and hot meals daily to the hungry six days a week. They also distribute food to area agencies through generous volunteer efforts. Loaves and Fishes provides 45,000 to 50,000 meals yearly at their local center. Loaves and Fishes also has a Food Distribution Center that passes out thousands of pounds of food to 30 other churches and agencies. This amazing “Soup Kitchen” serves meals between 10:30AM and 12:00PM. They are open Monday through Saturday. Donations are also taken 8am to 12pm Monday-Saturday at the 215 Foster St. location. The theme for the January Spouses luncheon is Red Carpet at the Movies at 10:30am at Cole Park Commons on January 16th.
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Winter Eagle Van Tours Lake Barkley State Park • 1-4:30pm • lbl.org held on Jan 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 a family friendly van tour is scheduled for Jan 27 Winter is peak season for bald eagle viewing in Land Between the Lakes! Both year-round resident eagles and visiting winter “snowbirds” are out looking for fish around the lakes. Join this van tour to visit several eagle viewing hotspots and look for these breathtaking birds in the wild. Naturalists will help you spot eagles and other wildlife, as well as zoom in with spotting scopes for a closer look.
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Jeff Parker & Company Concert Lakeland Jamboree • 7pm • gocadiz.com Jeff Parker is bluegrass fan-favorite hailing from central Kentucky. The mando-playing vocalist is the leader of Jeff Parker and Company, and has recorded multiple albums. The Lakeland Jamboree is a family music venue open on Friday and Saturday nights. Gospel Show Fri 7-9 pm & Country/Bluegrass Sat 7-9 pm. Monster Jam Triple Threat Series Brigdestone Arena - Nashville • monsterjam.com Monster Jam is the most accessible and family-friendly sport in the world today. Unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable, Monster Jam takes center stage in the world’s most iconic venues, sporting meticulously manicured dirt tracks created with the sole purpose of pushing these perfectly engineered, ever-evolving trucks to their limits. The Monster Jam drivers are athletes at the core and experts in four-wheeled, controlled aggression. Monster Jam, the larger-than-life sport that always leaves you entertained. 19
Nashville Boat Show Nashville Music City Center Thur 2 - 9pm • Fri Noon - 9pm • Sat 10am - 9pm Sun 11am - 5pm • nashvilleboatshow.com Active Military and Veterans: FREE Just show your military ID at the registration desk for FREE admission See the newest model fishing boats, pontoons and more, all under one roof!
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Champagne and Chocolate Customs House Museum - Clarksville 6pm • .customshousemuseum.org Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Champagne & Chocolate a fundraiser to benefit the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center. The festivities include sweet & savory delights, champagne, wine, beer, a silent auction, and live music. This year will be a wine pull. One lucky guest will take home a special bottle of wine.
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Wings of Winter Birding Festival Paris Landing State Park various times facebook.com/events/725884374275945 Wings of Winter, Kentucky & Barkley Lake Birding Festival offers 3 extraordinary days of birding on lakes, tributaries and river bottoms in the northwestern portion of the Tennessee and the southwestern portion of Kentucky. Attendees will enjoy guided field trips to sites are ordinarily closed to the public, highly regarded featured speakers, plenty of ornithological camaraderie and more in Paris, Tennessee.
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Log and Timber Home Show Music City Center Nashville various times thelogandtimbershow.com/events/nashville-tn-2019 Speak with Industry Experts, buy Rustic Furniture, attend Workshops, view Floor Plans, & finally Build your Dream Home. What you can see and do at a Log and Timber Home Show? Meet with builders, and log and timber home companies face to face to ask questions. Attend a Log and Timber Home University.Listen to informative workshops presented by experts. Plus, you just might meet an editor of Log Home Living or Timber Home Living Magazine. Nashville Auto Fest Nashville Fairground Sat. 8am - 6pm Sun 9am-4pm nashvilleautofest.com The historic Tennessee State Fairgrounds is alive and well and will host the 28th annual Nashville Auto Fest, the area's largest and longest-running classic car and truck show.
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Hot Chicken Week Nearly 20 Restaurants in Nashville www.hotchickenweek.nashvillescene.com A week of piquant poultry kicks off on Monday at almost 20 restaurants around town, celebrating the dish that’s uniquely Nashville. The roster includes some well-known hot chicken joints like Prince’s, new upstarts like Slow Burn Hot Chicken and some spots that you probably wouldn’t think of, such as Lucky Bamboo Chinese Bistro and Green Hills Grille. You don’t have to sign up or buy a ticket or anything to participate. Just show up and order the restaurant’s $5 Hot Chicken Week special. Nashville Restaurant Week Nashville Originals Association nashvilleoriginals.com/nashville-restaurant-week Nashville Originals member restaurants will be serving up special menus, dishes and deals all around town. Locally owned and operated members range from coffee shops to steakhouses, from beloved staples that have been serving Nashvillians for 35 years to new arrivals making their mark on our city’s flourishing culinary scene.
Roxy Regional Theatre 1/25 - Charlotte’s Web 6pm 1/26 - Charlotte’s Web 2pm E.B. White’s classic tale of a remarkable pig, a young girl, a spider and the friendship that binds them together comes to life upon the stage. Charlotte, who shows the true meaning of a friend.
Alahambra Theatre 1/20 The English Patient 2pm Classic Movies
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Zoo Fun Run 5k Nashville Zoo • 3-5pm nashvillezoo.org Join a herd of runners at Zoo Run Run! This winter race takes runners and walkers on a 5K adventure throughout the Zoo’s property, including areas not available to the public. Families and children are encouraged to bundle up as they hit the trail. All proceeds from the Zoo Run Run help fund Zoo operations, including providing education programs for children, feeding our collection of over 2,300 animals and keeping our Zoo safe and clean for our visitors.
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A big part of weight loss in the New Year is diet. Finding some go to healthy recipes will make dropping a few pounds so much easier! Christine from Jaroflemons.com has some amazing recipes that the entire family will love!
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Squash Casserole Christine says “This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Squash Casserole is creamy, savory, comforting, and SO easy to make for dinner tonight. It's also perfect to make in bulk and freeze for later!” Prep Time 10 minutes • Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes • Servings 6 Servings Calories 153 kcal • Carbs: 9 Fat: 6 Protein: 18 1 large spaghetti squash • 3 large chicken breasts • 1 green bell pepper diced • 6 oz. diced tomatoes drained 1 ⁄3 cup cream of mushroom • 1⁄4 cup plain greek yogurt • 1 cup shredded cheese • fresh basil optional • salt/pepper Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, then remove the seeds. Fill a baking pan with a 1/4" layer of water and place each spaghetti squash half face down.Oil a second baking pan and place the chicken breasts on there to bake. Bake the spaghetti squash and chicken breasts at the same time for 40-45 minutes (or until the spaghetti squash is soft and the chicken breasts are fully cooked). While the squash and chicken are baking, prepare the remaining ingredients. Once the squash and chicken are done, shred or dice the chicken into small pieces. With a fork, remove the "spaghetti" from the squash.Combine everything (except for cheese) and mix into a casserole dish. Top the casserole with cheese.Bake 15-20 minutes, or until everything is hot and the cheese has melted. Serve and enjoy or freeze for later!
Slow Cooker Beef Carnitas Tacos ”Easy to make Slow Cooker Beef Carnitas Tacos that are perfect for a delicious, gluten free dinner!” says Christine! Cook Time 2 hours • Servings 4 • Calories 307 kcal 12 oz organic grass-fed tenderized round steak • 1 tsp chili powder 1 ⁄2 tsp paprika • 1⁄2 red onion • 1 tsp garlic • salt/pepper Avocado Lime Dressing • 1 Tbsp olive oil • 4 corn tortillas 1 cup lettuce • 1⁄4 cup feta cheese • fresh cilantro Place the steak in the slow cooker and season with chili powder, paprika, 1/4 of the red onion (chopped), garlic, and salt/pepper to taste. Cook for 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. While the meat is cooking, create the avocado lime dressing recipe and place in the refrigerator. Once the carnitas steak is finished cooking, slice into thin strips. Lightly brown the tortillas in a pan with the olive oil. Top each tortilla with lettuce, carnitas steak, feta, cilantro, the remaining 1/4 chopped red onion, and avocado lime dressing.
Easy 30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice! Prep Time 5 minutes • Cook Time 25 minutes • Servings 4 Calories 414 kcal 2 medium chicken breasts cubed • 1 Tbsp avocado oil 2 cups frozen peas & carrots • 2 eggs 1 Minute Ready to Serve Family Bowl 2 Tbsp Tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) Cut the chicken breasts into cubes. Using half of the oil, cook the chicken breasts over medium heat (until fully cooked and browned). Set the cooked chicken aside. In the same pan, scramble the eggs. While the eggs are cooking, make the Minute Ready to Serve Family Bowl in the microwave according to directions. Combine the rice and the eggs. Add in the peas and carrots, then stir. Add in the gluten-free soy sauce (Tamari). Lastly, stir in the cooked chicken. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipes and photos courtesy of Christine from jaroflemons.com
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A Text Message Wins a Train Ride with Santa by CynDe Clack
In early November, MWR was gifted a set of tickets for the sold out Tennessee Central Railway Museum, North Pole Express Santa Excursion Train on Saturday, November 24. The tickets also included a $25 Gift Certificate for merchandise from the souvenir car. On Thursday, November 15, MWR sent a text club message offering the tickets to the first Active Duty Soldier who texted a response that he or she wanted this trip for their Family and the tickets were won by Frank and Kylee Holl. Frank and Kylee have been married about three years and have been a military Family for two of those years. They have one son, Kaiden, who will be 3 in January and are expecting another boy in April. They’ve been at Fort Campbell for a little over a year and shared that they enjoy it here. Kylee told me, “When I found out that we won the train tickets, we were all super excited! We waited until we arrived at Tennessee Central Railway to surprise our son with the trip. He loves trains and anything to do with Christmas, so he was ecstatic.” The train departed from the Tennessee Central Railway Museum in Nashville and travelled round trip to Watertown, TN. After about 2 ½ hours in Watertown, the train returned to Nashville. When asked if the train ride was as fun as it sounded, Kylee said, “The trip was wonderful and everyone was super friendly. During the train ride, we got a visit from Santa and his elves, a storyteller and carolers. We were also able to pick out a train ornament from the souvenir car thanks to the gift card! Once we arrived in Watertown, we grabbed lunch and explored the little town.” It sounds like they had a really great time! We asked the Holl Family what they felt were the benefits of being text club members and their response was immediate. “The benefits of being a text club member include awesome opportunities such as this one and information on weekly activities. My Family and I have been able to do many fun activities that we would not have known about originally if we were not text club members.” Joining the text club is easy. Just text the letters MWR to the number 68683 and answer the confirming text question with Y for “yes”. (Standard messaging rates may apply based on your cellular service plan.) MWR will send out two texts per week, one on Monday and one on Thursday, with short lists of events and items you don’t want to miss. Free tickets and special opportunities exclusive to text club members are also listed, and some are time-sensitive or limited quantities, so it’s always a good idea to check the text message when you receive it. 23
Cafe Nelson 3 ⁄4 ounce Baileys 3 ⁄4 ounce Frangelico 5 ounces hot black coffee 1 1⁄2 ounces whipped cream 1 teaspoon sugar
Rum Sangaree 2 ounces dark rum 1 ⁄2 ounce Cointreau 1 ⁄2 ounce ruby port Sprinkle of nutmeg (optional) Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Pour in all ingredients except the nutmeg and shake well. Put some ice cubes into a tumbler, and strain the mixture over the ice. Sprinkle the nutmeg over the top.
Pour the coffee into an Irish coffee cup with the liqueurs. Add sugar to taste (hint: less sugar-obsessed palettes may not want any). Float the whipped cream on top and serve. You can garnish this drink with a sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon or chopped hazelnuts on top.
B-52 Shot Cocktail 1
⁄2 ounce Kahlua ⁄2 ounce Bailey's Irish Cream 1 ⁄2 ounce Grand Marnier 1
Pour the Kahlua into a shot glass, then layer the Bailey's, and then the Grand Marnier.
Drink recipes and photos courtesy of mixthatdrink.com
Finding a go-to coffee shop can make any town feel like home. Just the smell of some freshly brewed coffee is enough to warm the soul. Just the thought of a huge cup of coffee on a chilly day brings a smile to many people’s faces. Get out of the cold and meet up with some friends at some of these amazing coffee stops. You won’t be disappointed.
Mugsy's Coffee Co 3291 Fort Campbell Blvd Bldg B, Clarksville M-F: 5:30am-6pm Sat: 7am-2pm Closed Sunday This coffee shop is located right outside of Fort Campbell and is a crowd favorite. It offers some delicious and different flavors of hot and warm beverages. You cannot miss the cow patterned building! They also just opened their 2nd location at VRK Plaza, 620 Dunlop Lane, Unit 123
Green Beans Coffee 650 Joel Dr, Fort Campbell, KY 7001 Market Garden Rd. Ft. Campbell, KY M-F: 7:00am- 4:00pm Closed Sat. and Sun. Located on post this coffee shop is known for its tasty treats! Not only will you get an amazing cup of coffee, but they also donate part of their proceeds to military families.
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Lasaters Coffee & Tea
Getsome Coffee
503 Heritage Pointe Dr, Clarksville M-F: 6am-9pm Sat: 7am- 9pm Closed Sunday
3862 Trenton Rd C, Clarksville M: 5:30am-7pm T-F: 5:30am-8pm Sat: 6am- 8pm Sun: 7am- 7:pm
If you love custom-roasted java and paninis, then this is the place for you! This stop is a favorite among some of the locals in Clarksville. It has multiple locations throughout Clarksville. Stop by and give it a try!
Another local favorite, customers can not stop raving about the atmosphere that this place has to offer. They offer a large variety of hot and cold beverages that you need to stop by and check out!
King Tut Coffee Co 212 Providence Blvd. Clarksville M-Thu: 6am- 9pm Fri: 6am-11pm Sat:10am-11pm Sun: 10am-9pm
Yada Yada Yada Deli
Not only does this cute little coffee shop have yummy coffee, they also have delicious food! They specialize in chicken, burgers, and gyros!
100 Strawberry Alley, Clarksville M-Sat: 8am-7pm Closed Sunday If you find yourself downtown in Clarksville, you have to stop by this cute little shop! The atmosphere is amazing and so is the coffee! It would be a great spot to meet up with some friends on a chilly morning!
Nova Flow CafĂŠ 700 N Riverside Dr c, Clarksville M-Sun: 8am- 5:30pm If you are looking for a unique and fun place to start your morning, this may be the place for you! This gem also has a huge fish tank located inside.
Corner Coffee House 707 S. Virginia St., Hopkinsville Tue-Wed: 6:30am-2pm Thu-Sat: 6:30am-5pm Closed Sunday Charming downtown Hopkinsville coffee shop with great coffees and delicious baked goods in a homestyle atmosphere.
Captain Marvel Another action packed Marvel movie is set to hit the big screen this March! Many believe that this film will answer so many questions that we were left with at the end of Infinity War. This movie will be set in the 1900’s and introduce the world to Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel! Starring: Brie Larson, Lee Pace, Samuel L. Jackson Opening on: March 8, 2019
John Wick: Chapter 3
Dumbo Directed by Tim Burton, this is one of the first Disney movies of the year that will be getting a live-action spin. It will follow the same little elephant that we all know and love! Starring: Colin Farrell, Eva Green, Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito Opening on: March 29, 2019
Aladdin
This movie will pick up right where John Wick: Chapter 2 left off. This action packed movie will follow Wick as he must survive a bounty that has been placed on his head.
This will be the second live-action remake that Disney will release in 2019. The movie will follow everyone’s favorite Princess, Genie, and of course Aladdin as they go on adventures on their classic magic carpet.
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Halle Berry, Ian McShane, Laurence Fishburne, Anjelica Huston Opening on: May 17, 2019
Starring: Will Smith, Naomi Scott, Nasim Pedrad, Mena Massoud Opening on: May 24, 2019
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The Secret Life of Pets 2
It: Chapter Two
Illumination Entertainment has created another amazing animated series with 2016’s The Secret Life of Pets. This movie will follow the unforgettable rascals as they go on another entertaining adventure.
Stephan King fans prepare yourself for the second part of the classic IT. Part Two will continue to tell the story that the first movie started as it follows the characters 30 years later. Get ready for your heart to race.
Starring: Patton Oswalt, Eric Stonestreet, Lake Bell Opening on: June 7, 2019
Toy Story 4 Pixar is back at it again with another addition to everyone’s favorite childhood movie. Many thought Toy Story 3 was the final chapter of the franchise, so this is a exciting surprise that is going to have the theaters packed! Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts, Laurie Metcalf Opening on: June 21, 2019
Spider-Man: Far From Home Everyone’s favorite teenage superhero is back to keep everyone on their toes and a smile on their face. Peter Parker will find himself facing off against Mysterio in this thrilling sequel.
Starring: Jessica Chastain, James McAvoy, Bill Hader, Bill Skarsgård Opening on: September 6, 2019
Zombieland 2 After fans have constantly requested it for 10 years, Sony is finally giving the world the sequel that they have been wanting. We can’t wait to see more of the hilarious comedy and horror story mashup. Starring: Emma Stone, Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Abigail Breslin Opening on: October 2019 (exact date unknown)
Frozen 2 I would keep this one a secret from your little ones until November! Disney returns with the groundbreaking story of everyone’s favorite ice princess and talking snowman.
Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jake Gyllenhaal, Marisa Tomei, Michael Keaton Opening on: July 5, 2019
Starring: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad Opening on: November 27, 2019
The Lion King
Star Wars: Episode IX
Easily one of the most anticipated live-action remakes that Disney has ever released. The classic Disney story returns with a star studded cast to voice our beloved little lions.
Fanboys rejoice, Star Wars is back in 2019! The story continues for this sequel trilogy finale. I can already see the line forming for this one!
Starring: Donald Glover, Beyoncé Knowles, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, James Earl Jones, Alfre Woodard Opening on: July 19, 2019
Starring: Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, Lupita Nyong’o Opening on: December 20, 2019
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January 21st is a day to stop and remember Martin Luther King Jr. This unforgettable man truly changed the world forever. MLK was a Civil Rights leader that was born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 15th, 1929. This powerful man never backed down and let the world know his stand against racism. He dedicated his life to his cause. His one goal was to achieve equality and justice for all Americans of all colors. MLK believed in peaceful refusal and protest to obey unjust laws was the best way to bring change. This man’s words and work will never be forgotten. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” “Free at last, Free at last, Thank God almighty we are free at last.” “The time is always right to do what is right.”
Calling all ice skaters!
Did you know that Clarksville has its own ice skating rink? Downtown Commons Winter Ice Rink is scheduled to run through January 21. Hours of operation will be Thursdays and Fridays 5:00pm to 10:00 pm. They will also be open Saturdays 11:00 am. to 10:00 pm. and Sundays 2:00pm to 10:00 pm. The hours of operation will be extended during school breaks and on holidays. Call 931-245-3366 for more information on the extended hours. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children under 12. The Downtown Commons Winter Ice Rink also offers discounts for military. Come out and skate the day away. Will you be able to master your figure eight?
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Strike Force Medal of Honor Recipients This monument honors the men of Strike Force. These men gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving this country. Their brave and honorable actions have made them all Medal of Honor recipients. PFC Joe Eugene Mann was born on July 8, 1922 and passed away September 19, 1944. Mann was serving with Company H, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. While deployed to the Netherlands, he destroyed an enemy emplacement by himself. He continued to fire on the enemy from an exposed position until he was wounded. Even though he was injured, he insisted on serving guard duty during the night. The next morning, Mann jumped on a hand grenade while under enemy fire. He sacrificed himself to protect those around him. SP4 Dale Eugene Wayrynen was born on January 18, 1947 and passed away on May 18, 1967. He was serving with Company B, 2d Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. On May 18, 1967, he was deployed to Quảng Ngãi Province, Vietnam when his unit came under attack. During the battle, Wayrynen sacrificed himself by throwing his body on an enemy-thrown grenade that was tossed into his company. He saved many lives that day by sacrificing his own.
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PFC Milton Arthur Lee was born February 28, 1949 and passed away April 26, 1968. He was serving with Company B, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. On the day of his death, a fight broke out near Phu Bai in Thừa Thiên Province, Republic of Vietnam. PFC Lee single-handedly destroyed an enemy emplacement. He was mortally wounded while attacking a second. CPL Frank Rocco Fratellenico was born on July 14, 1951 and passed away August 19, 1970. He was serving with Company B, 2d Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division. He was deployed to Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. On the day of his death, he was involved in a firefight. Fratellenico was preparing to throw a hand grenade when he was wounded. This caused him to drop the activated device. He then smothered the grenade with his body. He sacrificed his life to protect his fellow friends and soldiers from the blast.