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. November // December 2015
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nov // dec 2015
from the editor Wow, do I have a lot to be thankful for this year. Reed is a happy, healthy, very active baby boy. He is hitting every milestone (a little faster than his mommy would like). Avery is thriving in her second year of preschool and amazes me every day with what she learns and creates. Jeff is teaching in a school he loves, helping kids, which is what he has always wanted to do. I was given the opportunity this year to stay home with my kids and start a business that I am loving, while still working with Owensboro Parent, my first passion. I’m tellin’ ya, I can’t complain. So much has changed for my family over the last few years with new jobs, a new baby, new opportunities… it got me thinking about all of the incredible stories we have told through these pages in the last four years. Which is why I wanted to take the opportunity in this holiday issue of Owensboro Parent to catch up with some of our favorite stories. Discover what Angie and George Goodwin have accomplished since their son, Lane, passed away in October 2012. See what life looks like for the Daugherty family after their son, Owen, had a kidney transplant. Catch up with the Bell triplets who were featured on our November 2011 cover. Read an interview with Becca Greenwell, former Owensboro Catholic Aces basketball star. See what is on the horizon for American Idol contestant, Jenny Beth Willis. And see how life has truly come full circle for the Aud family after their daughter, Emelia, was stillborn in August 2013. We at Owensboro Parent hope you enjoy this issue, catching up with some of the stories that have touched our hearts over the last four years. Thank you for being such loyal readers and we all hope you have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Ashley Sorce, Editor ashley@owensboroparent.com
Publisher/Creative Director Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com Editor Ashley Sorce ashley@owensboroparent.com Advertising Sales Bo Alexander bo@tannerwest.com Robert Williams robert@owensboroparent.com Graphic Designers Taylor West taylor@tannerwest.com Andrea Roberson andrea@tannerwest.com Contributors Christina Dalton Gail E. Kirkland Danny May Dr. Shanna McGinnis Jill Pendergraft Melody Ann Wallace Steven Wilson Lora Wimsatt Contact Information Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5414 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. Effective brand interactions.
TM
A Jason Tanner Design Group Publication.
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november // december 2015 FAMILY LIFE
the most wonderful time of the year [08] parental control [10] the season of busyness [13] arctic adventure [16] CO MMUNIT Y
christmas photos from facebook [20] the season of giving [24] the days of elijah [28] distinguished teacher award [34] the most valuable lesson [36] a lovely lady [40]
[ 43 ] TH E N & N OW U P DAT E S O N SO ME O F O U R FAVO R I T E STO R I E S
[ 5 9 ] 20 1 5 H O LI DAY G I F T G U I D E
[13]
DISCOV E R
[68] healthy holidays [70] holiday activity guide [72] kids eat free list [74] november/december calendar
[36] [43] [59]
[20]
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[16]
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family life
{ by: lora wimsatt }
the most
wonderful
time of the year O
ne of the best things about having grandchildren is that
season was approaching. I guess for the previous generation,
they provide the perfect excuse – er, I mean, opportunity
it may have been the arrival of the Sears “Wish Book” in the
– to watch all those great Christmas classics that made this
mail. Before that, oh, I don’t know; maybe kids were actually
“the most wonderful time of the year.”
in tune with the changing seasons or something really bizarre
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” premiered in 1964
like that.
and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” followed a year later. Along
Anyway, back to our story.
the way, we also watched “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,”
It was about this time last year when I was out with my
“Frosty the Snowman” and “The Little Drummer Boy.”
daughter and my grandgirl, then age 3-almost-4. My daughter
Now, remember, this was back in the days when you got
Beth is a wonderful Mommy, but there are a few things she is
one chance a year to watch these specials. One! If you missed
not really good at doing, and one of them is singing Christmas
it, well, next December was a loooooong way off.
carols out loud, just for the fun of it. Actually, she doesn’t sing
much at all. Where did I go wrong?
There were no VCRs or DVDs. Certainly no YouTube or
online streaming, Netflix or Hula Hoop or whatever those
other “on demand” things are. I can’t keep up. Gosh, I still
chance to go right. So I sing with Briley, all the time, loudly,
think plain old television is a marvel.
even when we’re out in public, even when it involves hand
motions.
Before 1964, I’m not sure how kids knew the Christmas
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. November // December 2015
But now that I have grandchildren, I’ve been given another
www.OwensboroParent.com
On this particular day, we all were driving along with
“She doesn’t know that one,” Beth said. “I don’t think she’s
Briley strapped into her car seat behind me, and I suggested
ever even seen the movie.”
that it might be fun to have a sing-along.
“You go right ahead,” Beth said. “I’ll drive, you sing.”
asked. “Okay. Drive right now to a place where I can buy
We started with “Jingle Bells,” and Briley did pretty well
this movie for her. We cannot let the sun set on another day
with that, especially the big, enthusiastic “Hey!” that
until Briley knows who ‘Rudolph’ is.”
comes after “one-horse open sleigh.” She sometimes got stuck on the chorus and we would sing “Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle bells …” on and on before I could finally steer her away into “Jingle all the way,” but all in all, this song was a success.
We also did well with “We Wish You A Merry Christmas,”
again putting great energy into the swooshing sound on the word “wish,” but then I suggested a song I felt sure she
Well, I didn’t know what to think. “Why not?” I finally
Beth always thinks I am overreacting, but she did take
me to a store, and I did buy the DVD.
“Don’t wait until Christmas to watch it,” I said. “This is
a movie you can watch all year, with all kinds of important lessons. First, be yourself. Second, accept others for who and what they are. Third, forgive. Fourth ….”
My daughter and my grandgirl waited expectantly.
I picked Briley up and whispered in her ear. “Fourth,” I said, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year.”
OP
would know and love.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
Silence from the back seat. My daughter glanced at me.
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: My son is almost 3 and he is not potty trained yet. I feel that I am doing something wrong. I have tried everything from charts, stickers, rewards, you name it. Help?!
}
A: I wish there was a magic formula
children around this age and I
for this but I am afraid there is
know some tips that could make
not. My best piece of advice is to
you feel better about this process.
be consistent. You have to live and
I remember doing sleepovers when
breathe potty training. And it’s not
I was in middle school and how
fun at all. My child had no interest
much fun they were, but things
in it and then one day something
are so different now. There was no
just clicked. I can’t really tell you
Facebook, Instagram or Snapchat
what I did but we were attempting
then. One suggestion I have is
to go to the potty all the time. If
that you can actually check other
your child goes to daycare or a
kids’ phones to see if they have
sitter’s house, then they have to be
parent restrictions on them. Most
obsessed with going to the potty
children that age do have some
too. It is a team effort. I have had
kind of smartphone. You can put
parents tell me that with boys they
parent restrictions on your child’s
make a game of it and put cheerios
phone so that they do not have
in the toilet and try to get them
access to the Internet or YouTube
to sink the cheerio. I would try it!
without your permission. And you
He will get there and I’m sure it’s
can tell them, “I can’t let you spend
nothing you are doing wrong. Keep
the night if they do not have some
Calm and Potty On!
kind of guidelines when it comes to the Internet and social media.”
Q: I have a 12-year-old daughter
I have another friend that puts all
who will be turning 13 soon.
the phones in her bedroom when
Sleepovers are starting to be
it’s bedtime so that there is not any
an issue. She wants to be
unsupervised use of phones. There
around her friends 24/7
is a way in the phone’s settings to
and wants to do sleepovers
put these restrictions in place or
on the weekends. I am
you can probably go to where you
usually ok if it’s at my house
bought the phone and they can
because I can monitor them but
help you too. Another suggestion
with smartphones these days, who
that has to do with Instagram is if
knows what she might see?! Do
they want to follow your child then
you have any tips or suggestions to
they have to follow you too. This
make this a smoother process?
way you can see anything that they are posting as well. Technology
I have an 11-year-old and
moves so fast and it’s hard to keep
we haven’t done sleepovers yet.
up with everything that is out there
They scare me to death. LOL!
and our kids are on top of it. But
I do however have friends with
with a little work we can stay in the
A:
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know too! And any parent that doesn’t
A: First of all, I am very sorry about
things for others. This would be a great
want these things in place to help
your friend. This is something that is
opportunity to bake something together
keep our kids safe, then they probably
never easy no matter what age. We never
for your friend. This activity will also
aren’t the kind of parent you want your
want to give our kids bad news or see
children staying with in the first place.
them in pain. My suggestion to you is
provide a comfortable environment to
This may sound overprotective but it
to keep it very simple. I would explain
really depends on if you want your child
to your son that your friend is sick
being educated about the world from
and that she is going to get treatments
you or the Internet.
to help her feel better. I would tell
discuss what’s going on with her and your child can ask questions. You could also get him to make her cards, which is a great way for him to express his
him that she might lose her hair from
feelings. I want to caution you on taking
Q: My son is 5 years old and I need
these treatments but that it will grow
time for yourself as well. This has to be
advice on how to tell him about our
back. That sentence alone is going
very difficult for you too and that could
close, family friend that is very sick. She
to cause a million questions. I think
come out unexpectedly if you are not
will be doing chemo and it does not look
that at that age you don’t want to give
careful. You know your child best and
good right now. He is very close with her
them too much information, but you
you will do fine. Best of luck….
and I am unsure how to go about this
want them to be educated at the same
with him. I don’t want to say the wrong
time. The great thing about children
thing.
is they want to help. They love doing
www.OwensboroParent.com
OP
Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is the Family Resource Center Coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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family life
the season of
busyness
{ by: jill pendergraft }
T
he holidays have crept up on us once again this year.
enjoying the company of those who remind you of what the
You can almost smell the turkey cooking in the oven
holidays are all about. However, our busyness this time of
and hear the ringing of the Salvation Army bells.
year does not always give us thoughts of sugarplums dancing
Your mailbox has reached capacity with advertisements and
in our heads or chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Our
you’re just beginning to use the response “Let’s wait and see
attitudes have been twisted at the craziness we feel, and the
what Santa brings you for Christmas” to buy your kids some
little patience we possessed on a normal day seems to have
time for that thing that they just have to have.
withered. Why does what should be the most joyous time of
We should never be surprised every year when the
the year seem to rear the most stress and depression in our
holidays are upon us. Sometimes we react to the timing like
culture?
someone has thrown us the date at the last minute, and we
Obviously we are being pulled in what seems like a
must manage the hustle and bustle the best way we know
thousand different directions. We still have a full workweek
how: utter chaos.
Let’s vow to make this holiday season
and normal family activities, but we pile on little Justin’s
much better than the last (or last few), because we will not
rehearsals for the school Christmas performance, Caroline’s
act stunned at its coming, and most of all we will remember
dance recital practice, and Joy’s required volunteer hours
what really matters most.
for her school club. And that’s not even close to being
If you asked many families, moms especially, to
all. There’s school Christmas parties, work parties, gift
truthfully use one word to describe the holiday season, I
exchanges, family gatherings, church services, cooking,
would venture to guess that “busy” would be at the top of
baking, shopping….and the list goes on and on. What we
the list. Sometimes the busyness of the season can be a good
think we are doing as good for our kids or family members
thing…visiting families, fellowshipping with friends, and
ultimately ends up starting fights or brewing resentment.
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family life
Let’s change our holiday approach this season. I am not
before we get caught up in the frenzy of the holiday season.
suggesting you drop everything and sit at home in order to
Declare now that you will build in a margin of time during
feel defeated by your busyness in year’s past. Instead of
each day or even each week that only focuses on each other
dragging our families (or ourselves) in so many different
and not each other’s schedules. Whether you choose to use
directions, let’s try to build in some time to stop and be
your time in the car driving from one activity to the next to
grateful for the blessings we have.
ask your kids how their days were or you have meaningful
Families need restoration from their busyness.
conversation at the dinner table (technology free), decide
Restoration can happen in a variety of ways, but it remains
that your family will make time for each other.
a necessity to nurture a healthy family. Do your kids know
your schedule better than they know your story? Have they
season because of its meaning in our life as Christians. We
seen your grief or stress and how you have overcome it? A
know that no amount of presents, recitals, work, or even
restorative act in your family does not require a vacation
food can fill our hollowed hearts without the love of Christ.
or even a lot of money spent on “things” that we think will
This is what our focus and goal is even in the midst of the
stimulate our happiness. Let’s find joy in the quality of
shopping, meetings, parties, gatherings, etc. How will you
time we spend together as a family rather than the quantity
and your family break up the busyness this holiday season
of time we find ourselves busy.
to focus more on the blessings rather than your burdens?
Our family finds hope and encouragement in the busy
OP
Also, our busyness should not dictate our time (or lack
of) to demonstrate a meaningful love to our family. Every family will experience changing phases of life that bring on more hectic schedules, differing priorities, demanding struggles, and altered types of busyness. Let’s start now,
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Jill is the Family Resource Director at Newton Parrish Elementary School. She has been married to Brannon for 5 years, and they have an almost 2-year-old daughter, Caroline. She writes a blog for crosseyedliving.com and is very involved in the ministries of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.
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November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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family life
PRESENTED BY:
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. November // December 2015
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owensboro parent magazine bringing
arctic adventure
to convention center Join the fun, Saturday and Sunday, January 2-3, 2016.
T
he Arctic Adventure Kids Fun Festival presented by
makes it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
One Health Pediatrics is an indoor, polar playground
full of activities for kids of all ages! Arctic Adventure
$15 entry fee for kids ages 3-17. For a limited time, use
will be hosted by the Owensboro Convention Center on
the coupon on the ad in this issue of Owensboro Parent
Saturday and Sunday, January 2-3, 2016.
magazine to save $3 on each entry fee. Adults and those
This unique event, created by Owensboro Parent
under 3 years of age are free. That’s right, adult entry is
Magazine, is divided into six, 2-hour sessions during
FREE! Early Admission Entry, which gets you into your
the first weekend of 2016. This is the last weekend of
session 30 minutes early, is also available for an extra $10.
Christmas break and the perfect time to get out of the
house and into the Convention Center for cabin fever
orientation at “basecamp” with your guide, Frostbite
relief.
Fred. He will then lead you on the no-chills-just-thrills
Each session will allow families to participate in
expedition through the “snowcapped” expo halls of the
fun, arctic-themed activities for all ages including the
Owensboro Convention Center. When the “avalanche
90 ft. inflatable One Health Pediatrics “snow” slide, an
warning” sounds, follow Frostbite Fred into the “cool
interactive 50 ft. “ice” maze, the “Everest” rock climbing
down zone” for even more fun and some hot cocoa!
challenge, an “arctic” obstacle course, a “freezing” photo
booth, and much more - all indoors!
Arctic Adventure Kids Fun Festival presented by One
We don’t believe kids should spend their time
Health Pediatrics. Fun for kids. Free for adults. No
waiting in long lines; they should be having fun! Parents
parkas needed.
shouldn’t feel anxious about keeping up with their kids
in overwhelming crowds; they should be having fun, too!
OwensboroTickets.com or find the event on Facebook.
To facilitate that, we have arranged the event into 2-hour
Tickets go on sale November 2 at 9 am.
All Arctic Adventure activities are included in the
Your family’s Arctic Adventure will begin with a brief
All of this and more will be waiting for you at the
Buy your tickets before the sessions sell out. Visit
OP
sessions with limited admission for each session. This
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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{ paid advertorial }
the importance of good
dental health Good dental health is important for all Kentuckians.
R
emember as a kid when your dentist used to say,
of school absences in Kentucky – and an estimated half
“Take care of your teeth because they are the
of second graders are affected by tooth decay each year.
only ones you’ll ever get”? Well, it turns out that was
Because oral health remains one of the most
really good advice that far too many Kentuckians do
prevalent unmet healthcare needs in Kentucky,
not heed.
KOHC is sponsoring a statewide oral health summit
According to the Kentucky Oral Health Coalition (KOHC), Kentucky had the fifth-highest rate of “toothlessness” in the country among adults age 65 and older in 2012. The state also ranks 41st in the nation in annual dental visits, 45th in the percentage of children with untreated dental decay (34.6%), and 47th in the percentage of adults age 65 and older who are missing
on November 20, 2015, in Louisville. The summit will bring together a diverse and large number of leaders in the oral health community to develop strategies to deal with the widespread dental access issues in Kentucky. The summit is free, but registration is required at kyoralhealthcoalition.org.
six or more teeth (52.1%). (For more information, go
Regular visits to the dentist can do more than keep
online to kyoralhealthcoalition.org.)
your smile attractive – they can tell dentists a lot about
Good oral health habits and regular visits to the
your overall health, including whether or not you may
dentist can give kids the strong start they need to have
be developing a disease like diabetes. So be sure to
healthy teeth and gums. Unfortunately, according to
brush and floss regularly, and schedule regular visits
KOHC, pain from dental problems is a leading cause
to see your dentist.
OP
For more information call 502-585-7900 or 800-578-0603. Visit our website at www.passporthealthplan.com 18 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
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Christmas Photos
from facebook
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Christmas Photos
from facebook
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community
the season of
giving
{ by: danny may }
I
t’s the giving time of year. Thankfully, Owensboro is full
of generous people and we have many organizations that
10-14) and fill a standard adult shoe box (or similar sized box)
are devoted to enhancing the lives of others. Whether you
with toys, toiletries, school supplies or other gifts items. Some
are continuing or starting a family tradition of sponsoring a
suggestions are: deflated soccer ball & pump, stuffed animals,
child or donating a gift for a deserving child this Christmas,
dolls, shoes, jump rope, hair clips or bows, small flashlight &
here are some suggestions for local agencies to partner with:
batteries, and a note with a photo of your family.
Around the World Operation Christmas Child
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has delivered gift-
To participate, choose a gender and age group (2-4, 5-9 or
Please include $7 for shipping and drop your box off at
Owensboro Christian Church the week of November 16-23rd. You can track your box online and monitor its arrival with a label option available at samaritanspurse.org.
filled shoeboxes to over 124 million children affected by war, poverty, natural disasters, and other crises in more than 150
In Our Region – Toys for Tots
countries around the world. Owensboro Christian Church
serves as a regional collection center for Operation Christmas
conducted annually in over 700 communities in all 50 states.
Child. Children’s Minister, Emily Leach, says Owensboro
Daviess County Toys for Tots Coordinator Lou Dawdy has
Christian expects to fill two semis full of boxes this year, which
been involved since 2005, and overseas the area including
will then head to North Carolina for global distribution.
Daviess, Hancock, Ohio, Muhlenburg, Henderson, Webster,
24 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
The US Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program is
www.OwensboroParent.com
Union, and McLean Counties, as well as Tell City and Rockport, Indiana.
“I always tell people we are not ‘toys for storage,’ we are Toys for Tots. No matter how many or few toys are
donated, or how much or little money is donated, we give it all away!” Dawdy said.
Marine volunteers collect the toys, store
them, sort them by age and gender, and then fill requests from Salvation Army, school Family Resource Centers, or other organizations who request toys for selected children. Toys will be collected at numerous drop off locations between late October and December 15, when the toys will be delivered to agencies for distribution. Drop off boxes are located in Owensboro at: American Legion, AmVets, BB&T Banks, Big Lots, Clayton Homes, Cash Express, Citi Financial, Coldwell Bankers, Contour Express, CVS, Davis Chiropractic, Daymar, Deals, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Independence Banks, Kroger, Maximillian Montessori, OSMO, Rural King, Sam’s Club, Swedish Match, Time Warner, US Banks, VFW, Wal-Mart, and Walgreens.
In Our City – Goodfellows Club
For 100 years, Goodfellows Club of Owensboro has been
providing Christmas joy to less fortunate children in Daviess County. The organization works closely with Family Resource / Youth Service Centers at area schools to identify children with the greatest needs, serving approximately 2,000 every year. With an operating budget of approximately $172,200, the organization receives most donations during the holiday season through Roll Call, the daily fundraising campaign through the Messenger-Inquirer. “Roll Call is taken from Thanksgiving Day until Christmas Day, but we’ll take donations any time,” says Director Tracy McQueen. Donations can be made in person at the Messenger Inquirer or online at goodfellowsclubofowensboro.org.
The largest fundraiser is the annual Soup Day, which will
be held on Tuesday, November 2, at Settle Memorial’s ROC building. www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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In A Specific School – Family Resource / Youth Service Centers
“We have an alarmingly high amount of children that need our
help right here at home in Owensboro,” says Owensboro Public Schools Information Officer Dave Kirk. Both Daviess County Public Schools and Owensboro Public Schools have Family Resource / Youth Service Centers who help students at Christmas; the thing to remember is the FRYSCs are looking for donors in November, not on Christmas break when it is too late to help. DCPS Information Officer Lora Wimsatt says “it really helps our FRYSCs to have an idea of donations and commitments of support well in advance so they can identify needs that remain to be filled.” Kirk agrees. “If you want to be a sponsor, the best way to help is to call the school you want to help out now and ask how you can help.”
OP
Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner+West and a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very active boys, 5 and 7.
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community
{ by: melody ann wallace }
the days of elijah W
hen 16-year-old Elijah Eckstein received
an accident…He has some very serious injuries,
his graduated driver’s license on September
but he’s alive.”
21, his mother Beth’s biggest concern was about
Elijah had been riding his bike along the
him driving a car. Even though Elijah would now
Greenbelt when he was struck by a large SUV
be the seventh out of her ten children to drive, there
as he attempted to cross at Old Hartford Road.
was still something that worried Beth about the
According to reports, one driver stopped to wave
thought of him being out on the road. What Beth
Elijah across, while another vehicle, seemingly
did not expect, however, was the phone call that
unaware of his presence, struck him. “We believe
came in on the evening of September 22, saying
Elijah had many guardian angels around him that
that Elijah had been in an accident…on his bicycle.
evening. Given the size of the vehicle that hit him
Beth Eckstein was on the phone with one of
(a Ford Excursion), he could have easily died at
her adult daughters when a call came in from an
the scene.” One such angel was off duty ER nurse,
unknown number. The voice on the other end of
Dynah Embry. Dynah cleared the blood that was
the phone sounded something like this: “Do you
blocking Elijah’s airway and managed his c-spine
have a son named Elijah Eckstein?…He’s been in
until the ambulance arrived on scene. Beth says, “I
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hope to meet her when things settle down and express my gratitude for what she did to save my son.” Elijah presented at the hospital with multiple injuries including an orbital fracture that extended deep into his sinus cavity, an air pocket around his brain connected with that fracture, a broken scapula, broken ribs, a bruised left lung with swelling, a broken pelvis (right side, front and back), a fractured vertebrae at T7, and a right ankle that was fractured in three places, extending into the ankle joint. The first surgery to stabilize his ankle was performed on Wednesday, September 23 and a second on Thursday, October 8. Although the second surgery proved to be a very painful one that Elijah is still recovering from, his mother says that, “All breaks have been repaired with screws and a plate to close the major break. He has a bionic ankle now. ”
Elijah is like so many other 16-year-old boys that enjoy hanging out with
friends, and, in this past year has become involved in health and fitness, logging many miles biking back and forth to the Healthpark this summer. When it comes to academics, he is an extremely intelligent young man, in all Advanced Placement classes, who hopes to pursue a career in law and politics. He is incredibly active in Teenage Republicans, has an affinity for Ronald Regan, and is currently a Ben Carson supporter. Elijah is also a huge Kentucky Wildcats fan. On October 8, friends, family, and followers were encouraged to wear UK and Teenage Republican apparel in support of
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Elijah’s surgery. Kentucky Korner even arranged to donate 10% of their apparel sales on October 7 to the family. This information was posted on the Facebook page that Beth set up to journal Elijah’s daily activities and progress, These are the days of Elijah. There is also a Gofundme page that has been established to help off-set the “astronomical” medical bills anticipated with Elijah’s care, his surgeries, and his recovery. When this story went to print, $3,757 of the $5,000 projected goal had been fulfilled.
From the very first day that the Eckstein family arrived at
St. Mary’s hospital they felt an outpouring of support from the Owensboro community and beyond. Dana Goodlett, the marketing director for the Chick-fil-A restaurant in Owensboro, was familiar with the family and, upon hearing Elijah’s story, quickly contacted the Cross Pointe Chick-fil-A in Evansville. After many sleepless hours and a “whirlwind of emotions,” the Ecksteins, and the entire nursing station, were greeted with large bags of hot food, a tray of fresh fruit, and cookies. The generosity did not stop there. Knowing that one of the most prized possessions a teenager could have is his cell phone, the students and staff at Daviess County High School took up a collection, replaced Elijah’s phone, and even went a step further by adding to the $350 raised at Eastview Elementary School’s teacher dress down day, in order to pay the family’s rent for the month of November. The
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family’s home church, Bethabara Baptist, has been a huge support, Beth says, as well as “every school that has taught my children, and some that haven’t.” Individuals with private businesses such as Tastefully Simple and Blessed is She-Bangles, by Ashley Hicks, donated a portion of their proceeds to Elijah and his family. Legends Outfitters has agreed to donate and replace Elijah’s totaled bicycle with a brand new one. Heather Haynes also hosted a donation only Zumbathon on Saturday morning, October 31 at Puzzle Pieces in order to raise funds for Elijah’s medical expenses account established through Daviess County Teachers Federal Credit Union. Beth says that they have been beyond blessed and overwhelmed by the demonstration of love for her family through letters, gift cards for meals, care packages, meals prepared and delivered to the family while she was in Evansville caring for Elijah, parents providing transportation home for her children, money for medical bills, and the many anonymous donors of food, money, gifts and prayers, so abundant that she will never be able to thank them all. On Wednesday, October 14, Elijah was released from St. Mary’s with a stringent outpatient care and therapy schedule. Beth, who hasn’t worked at her job as a caregiver since Elijah’s accident, will now be in charge of his full time care and recovery at home, although his dad, Scott, still maintains the title of “official leg lifter.” The upcoming challenges Elijah faces include homebound study for school, consistent pain management, daily injections, and strengthening that right leg and ankle. Although, in some ways, the recovery process has just begun, Beth chooses to focus on the positive, “Moms don’t usually get a lot of time with their 16-year-old boys--- now I have him all to myself.”
If you would like to show your support for Elijah and the
Eckstein family, there are several local businesses that are sponsoring upcoming fundraisers.
On November 12, Miss Daviess County has coordinated
with Fetta restaurant to donate 10% of the daily food sales to Elijah’s family.
A Zumba fundraiser will be held in November in order to
raise the funds to replace Elijah’s bicycle. If you would like to make a donation toward Elijah’s medical expenses, please visit his Gofundme page at https:// www.gofundme.com/x44vewyk.
OP
Melody Ann Wallace is a teacher at DCMS who finds new blessings each day in her roles as teacher, wife, mom, and stepmom.
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proceed with caution “Elijah had just gotten his graduated license the day before the accident. Most of my concerns surrounded him driving a car. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that he would be hit riding his bicycle.” In the weeks before Elijah’s accident, there were conversations about bicycle helmets and flashing lights, but they were just that, conversations. So many of us get so used to just casually jumping on our bikes and riding, that we don’t stop to think about the “what ifs.”
Bicycle Safety Breck’s Bicycle Shop manager, and avid mountain biker, Chip Winger’s number one piece of advice is to always wear a helmet. Chip says, “You just never know. You never wake up in the morning thinking, ‘I’m going to be in an accident today.’ I’ve been saved twice. I’ve cracked two helmets, but I’ve never cracked my noggin. I honestly believe those helmets saved my life.” Chip also advises bicycle owners to wear reflective clothing and keep the reflectors on their bike after purchase. The reflectors are designed so that when headlights hit them, they immediately attract the driver’s attention. Chip says that there are also “two types of lights in the bike industry--- lights to be seen by, and lights to see by.” Blinking lights are lights that are meant to be used so that drivers and others can see the bicycle rider. Lights with stronger lumens (350 or higher) can be mounted on handlebars or helmets to provide light in order for the rider to see better.
Riding the Greenbelt Considering the fact that Elijah’s accident took place at the Greenbelt crossing at Old Hartford Road, one of the biggest issues that has been brought to light is the proper procedure for handling these crossings safely as a pedestrian and as a motorist. Amanda Rogers, the Director of Owensboro Parks and Recreation, reminds us that there are several Greenbelt rules that have been established in order to ensure the safety of cyclists. Although the Greenbelt is often used for early morning and afternoon commuting, it is also only meant to be used during daylight hours, and should not be used between dusk and dawn.
www.OwensboroParent.com
Riders are also encouraged to walk their bikes at designated crossings. As an experienced rider, Chip also recommends that, “Anytime you are approaching an intersection, you should be more aware of your surroundings.” He recommends that you keep your “head on a swivel,” constantly “watching out for the other guy.”
Knowledge for Motorists One of the biggest concerns Michael Hathaway, Public Safety Officer for the Owensboro Police Department, has is that, “Some motorists are not from Owensboro and don’t know the Greenbelt. We can’t make assumptions that everyone knows the rules.” However, what all drivers need to remember when approaching a marked crossing is to slow their speed and, “if a pedestrian or bicyclist is in the crosswalk, or approaching the crosswalk, the vehicle does have to give the right of way.” Officer Hathaway also recommends that pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists are constantly aware of their surroundings in order to ensure everyone’s safety in our community.
Greenbelt Trail Etiquette • • • • • • • • •
• • • •
Pedestrians have the right-of-way The trail is like a roadway; keep right and pass on left Politely warn trail users as you approach from behind If you stop, please leave the trail Always allow other trail users room to pass on the left Obey all trail signs & rules For your safety, stop at intersections Travel at safe speeds Enjoy your pets; keep pets on a short leash, walk pets on the right-hand shoulder, and clean your pet’s waste from trail area Please help keep the trails clean; don’t litter, and recycle trash on the trail Do not use trails at night; trails are closed from dusk to dawn No motorized vehicles are allowed on trail Please report safety or maintenance concerns to the City of Owensboro Public Works Department, 270-687-8707
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community
distinguished
teacher award { by: danny may }
D
aviess County Middle School language arts teacher Laura Murphy can remember December 15th, 2014 like it was
yesterday. She had been in the media center and was walking back into her classroom when her principal stopped her in the hallway. “We walked through the door to find a scene that will be forever etched in my mind: all of my family members, a few local business owners, a couple of cameramen, and a huge gift basket accompanied with a beautiful bouquet of roses filled my room,” Murphy recalled.
The gift basket she’s talking about was a prize
package with $1,400 worth of gift certificates and other donations from a group of local small business owners who started the Distinguished Teacher Award to
husbands and wives.
recognize an outstanding teacher in Owensboro/Daviess
After several shed tears and a lot of heartfelt
County each year.
deliberation, the entries were eventually narrowed down
“Teachers put so much time, effort, love and care into
to twenty, then seven, and then two finalists. The intent
what they do,” said Lance & Co.’s Mandy Collins, speaking
was to choose one grand prize winner, but the final two
on behalf of the founding businesses. “We decided to
candidates were so deserving that they added a runner-up
honor them for that and make them feel appreciated.”
prize.
The result was an abundance of gift cards and lavish
Janie Montgomery, a twenty-five year veteran teacher
items including jewelry, beauty products, clothing, food,
at Owensboro Middle School South, was named the
art and fitness programs. The businesses advertised on
runner-up and received gift certificates from Lance &
social media and sent emails to city and county schools
Co. Jewelers, Pure Barre and another certificate to get her
inviting people to nominate teachers for the award. The
hair, makeup and nails done.
response was overwhelming; it took two weeks for the
With family and co-workers in attendance, both
committee to read the hundreds of nomination letters they
teachers were surprised at their schools with an assortment
received from administrators, co-workers, sons, daughters,
of gifts from the participating businesses, as well as a
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beautiful certificate acknowledging their achievement. The
To nominate your favorite current or retired teacher,
ladies were overwhelmed with the outpouring of appreciation
fill out the online form at goo.gl/vu08hA or email
they each received.
disinguishedteacheraward@gmail.com.
For Murphy, the Distinguished Teacher Award had a
The attributes to consider for the nomination include:
lasting impact. “One of the biggest blessings that resulted
personal initiative, going above and beyond their obligation,
from the Distinguished Teaching Award was expanding my
innovative teaching methods, and encouraging students to
fitness level, which has helped me to become a more balanced
achieve academic goals and success.
teacher, making time for myself outside of school,” she said.
All K-12 teachers in any of the three school districts -
One of the gift certificates in the prize package was a month
Daviess County Public Schools, Owensboro Public Schools,
membership to Pure Barre. After “falling in love with
or Owensboro Catholic Schools - are eligible. Entries must
the workout,” Laura became an instructor. She also
be submitted no later than November 28th. The winner will
enjoyed getting to know several of the other business owners as she’s used the gift cards over the past year. “I feel very blessed to be the first recipient of this honor, and I am thankful to the local businesses who are taking the time to recognize these local teachers. I can still remember the teachers who impacted my life most, and they are the ones who propelled me into my career path. Many others are deserving of this award so I cannot say enough how much it meant to me,” Murphy said.
www.OwensboroParent.com
be announced December 14th.
At the time of this printing, Pure Barre, Lance & Company
Jewelers, Oasis Tanning Salon, Excursions, Face Forward, Legends, Bakers Rack, Studio Slant, The Earle, Welborn's Florist and Dream Copy Photography are participating this year, but more are expected to join.
OP
Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner+West and a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very active boys, 5 and 7.
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community
the most
valuable lesson { by: melody ann wallace }
It all started with one simple question proposed to a group of teachers in a professional development session this summer, “What could you do in your classroom to make your students’ writing stronger?” The thoughts began to churn. What type of activity would be meaningful enough to impact a group of sixth grade students and enhance the quality of their writing? After all, they are 11- and 12-yearolds, and at an age where they find great importance in friends, self, video games, and the emergence of social media. What lesson could be powerful enough to cause them to think and stretch beyond themselves?
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Z
Then one simple word came to mind, a word that would
staying. A group of boys coordinated schedules to meet at the
certainly evoke an engaging vocabulary lesson, philanthropy.
local Humane Society. Two young girls worked together to
Philanthropy is defined as, “the practice of giving money and
prepare lessons to teach English to Spanish-speaking family
time to help make life better for other people,” and research
members. Some students made bracelets to raise money for
shows that “teaching social and emotional skills like kindness
cancer, while others began making lists of Random Acts of
improves behavioral and academic success.”
Kindness they could perform daily. For the next thirty days
students performed tasks, big and small, that in some way
So the question was proposed to 160 sixth grade students
at Daviess County Middle School, “What would happen if…?”
benefited others.
If I mowed my neighbors lawn? If I served at the Daniel Pitino
Kealey Couch
Shelter? Next, the students were asked, “What do you truly care about?” “What do you enjoy doing?” “How can you use
that to bless or help others?” Students began to brainstorm and
to help others. Kealey Couch has always loved helping people
look at lists of resources including wish lists for local charities,
and has a special place in her heart for children. Knowing that
homeless shelters, animal shelters, and nursing homes. Students
her family had planned to be part of an upcoming community
with artistic ability teamed up with students that had a passion
yard sale, Kealey decided that she wanted to sell her items and
for public servants and created cards to show gratitude to local
donate the money to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. She spent
law enforcement officers and firefighters. Students that enjoyed
hours pricing her old toys and clothes in preparation for the yard
baking immediately teamed up together to plan their menus
sale, but she did not stop there. Armed with brightly colored
and visit a local nursing home where one of their nanas was
markers, Kealey made a large poster board sign that read “Food
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One student knew right away exactly what she wanted to do
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Gavin Price
One young man that saw a need bigger than himself was
Gavin Price. Gavin is naturally kind-hearted, but when he was first presented with the challenge to help others, his initial thought was to join the group of students who were making care packages for deployed soldiers. The students had been asked to find an act of service that was personal to them, one that allowed them to use their gifts and talents. Gavin went home that evening and saw a picture of a premature baby at Kosair Children’s Hospital that had been posted to Facebook by close family friends. Gavin came to school the next day driven by the desire to raise money for the baby and his family. When Gavin was asked why he wanted to help this family he said, “The family is close to us and has helped us before…And I wanted it (the baby) to have a chance.”
Gavin, who enjoys baking with his grandmother on the
weekends, decided to arrange a bake sale. He petitioned family members to bake and donate baked goods, and made several himself, including potato candy and pumpkin dip. A former McClean County resident, Gavin was acquainted with the family that runs the Island Dairy Freeze, and they gave him their full support to set up outside for the bake sale. Unfortunately, the for St. Jude” and hung it near the table where she was stationed. For two weekend days she manned the table that proudly held a crock pot full of streaming hot dogs, various cookies, cakes, snacks, and a variety of drinks. Going a step further in her act of kindness, Kealey had written uplifting personal messages in marker on the outside of the bagged cookies and snacks that said such things as, “You look beautiful today” and “Have a nice day.”
Kealey initially set a personal goal of raising $150 and was
very proud of the fact that she was able to raise $170 in just two days. Initially the plan was for Kealey and her mom to travel to Memphis, Tennessee, tour the campus, and deliver the money personally to St. Jude’s. However, when her mother discovered that Kealey was too young to tour the campus, she opted to mail the money instead. She then surprised Kealey by having a giant check printed with the St. Jude’s emblem and the amount of money she raised. What Kealey did not expect was to have a gift basket delivered to her door filled with a shirt, hat, decorative plate, pencils, and water bottle as a token of appreciation from the children’s hospital. Kealey, who plans on using her love of children to become a pediatrician, says that she would definitely raise money again, but next time she would plan it out earlier and set a higher fundraising goal. 38 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
day he selected was the coldest so far this fall. The weather was cold and windy, and rain drizzled as they sat outside from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. collecting sales and donations for baked goods. However, the bright spot in Gavin’s day came in the form of a man that handed him a particularly special donation. When Gavin went to thank him, the man said that he understood because he had experienced having a premature baby himself.
Although Gavin did not set a monetary goal ahead of time,
he was quite happy with the $180.13 that he raised. He and his family presented the money to the family at their home, in the hopes that it would do a little to help offset meal and travel expenses. As far as for his future, Gavin says he wants to pursue a career in law that leads to public office, and his long term goal is to eventually be President of the United States. With a heart like his, we would be lucky to have him leading our country.
Kealey and Gavin did not set out to help others for the
recognition or tokens of thanks; they did it because they have a heart for helping people. Gavin said it best, “They didn’t decide to have cancer or be premature…we just wanted to help them.”
OP
Melody Ann Wallace is a teacher at DCMS who finds new blessings each day in her roles as teacher, wife, mom, and stepmom. www.OwensboroParent.com
lessons learned: “I pet cats and made them happy and they didn’t want me to leave.” – Tyler W. after visiting the Humane Society “I learned that it’s hard to cook eggs and not break the yolk.” – Michael G. after surprising his family with breakfast “Doing things for other people makes you feel really good and old people are really nice.” – Ashlyn W. after baking cookies for the nursing home where her great grandma lives “I learned that people need clothes and some people don’t have everything I do.” – Grace H. after donating her old clothes to Goodwill “That not everything is about me and doing things for others makes me very happy.” – Ansley H. after helping a friend deal with a devastating loss and completing 30 days of Random Acts “I learned that sometimes you feel better about yourself if you make someone else happy.” – Lilly W. after working with her cheer team to raise $428 for a two year old child with cancer “Making other people happy is better than getting paid.” - Rachel H. after making and delivering cards to the nursing home “I learned that I underestimated them entirely. I was expecting them to perform a few acts of kindness, help around their home or neighborhood, or visit a local shelter. I never dreamed that they would go above and beyond like they did. My students have amazing hearts and completely exceeded any expectations I had.” – Their teacher after reading and learning of her students’ experiences
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community
The Owensboro Christmas Parade, “where Kentucky starts Christmas.”
F
or 79 years, the Owensboro Christmas Parade has been an annual, holiday family tradition, taking place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Each year, thousands line the streets of downtown Owensboro as nearly 120 floats, marching bands and other displays roll by, handing out candy to children eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival on the very last float. “My love for the parade began when I participated in my first parade at four years old,” says Owensboro Christmas Parade Chairperson Adam Johnston, who has been on the committee for ten years. “I love seeing the smiles on all the kids’ and adults’ faces as the parade rolls down Second Street.” A parade the size of ours takes all year to organize, and the
a lovely lady
florence henderson to grand marshal christmas parade { by: danny may }
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. November // December 2015
committee gets started brainstorming on the Monday following the parade. To determine who serves as Grand Marshal, the community is invited to nominate individuals and/or groups and the committee then narrows down the selections. “We spend countless hours sifting through nominations and suggestions for Grand Marshal,” Johnston said. “We look for someone from the area who has really put Owensboro on the map in a positive way or someone who has made a significant contribution to our great community.” This year, television icon and Owensboro native Florence Henderson has been selected to serve as Grand Marshal. Henderson is best known for her role as Carol Brady in The Brady Bunch. She was also the first woman to guest host The Tonight Show and had a successful career on Broadway starring in such musicals as Oklahoma, The King and I, and Fanny. In honor of her achievements in the performing arts, Henderson is featured in the Owensboro Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau’s “Hometown Hall of Fame.” Johnston says the committee has tried several years to have Florence serve as Grand Marshal, but it has not worked with her schedule until now. “We were overjoyed when we found out she was able to make it this year,” Johnston said. “Growing up, I watched her on TV just like everybody else. She has accomplished so much, yet she still returns to her roots quite often. To finally make this work is very exciting.” Florence sounds just as excited as the committee is. In an email to Owensboro Parent, Henderson said, “Coming home to Owensboro is always a treat because I still have so many friends and relatives there! They are as excited as I am about the parade!” She added that she is very proud to say she spent her “growing up” years in Owensboro, and thinks the improvements to the riverfront are “spectacular!” www.OwensboroParent.com
Past parade grand marshals include: Elmo Senator Wendell H. Ford Darrell Waltrip The family of radio personality Joe Lowe Singers Goldie Payne and Jenny Beth Willis KWC Basketball Team Alma Randolph Brad Wilkerson
Awards:
Schools, Clubs, Scouts, and Church Organizations: $250 Cash 1st place $150 Cash 2nd place $100 Cash 3rd place
Most Effective Use of Lighting: $150 Cash and Framed Certificate
Commercial; Governmental and Municipalities: Framed Certificates for First through Third place
In support of Florence Henderson, Emmy-winning television star, celebrity stylist and fashion designer Carson Kressley will also make an appearance at this year’s parade. Kressley is a New York Times best-selling author and was recently a “fan-favorite” on ABC’s world-wide hit, Dancing With The Stars. When Kressley is not starring on stage or screen, he can be found riding one of his American Saddlebred show horses. His passion for horses brings him to the tri-state often to ride at the DeLovely Farms Equestrian Training Center located across the river in Rockport, Indiana. The 2015 Owensboro Christmas Parade will take place on Saturday, November 21. It will start promptly at 4:30 p.m., rain, shine or snow, and is expected to last between an hour and a half to two hours. OP
Danny May is a staff writer at Tanner+West and a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent Magazine. He and his wife Kelly are raising two very active boys, 5 and 7.
www.OwensboroParent.com
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then
& now
updates on some of our favorite stories
J
ust a few months ago, Owensboro Parent celebrated our fourth birthday. We wrote then about how so much has changed for our staff, which has more than doubled in size. Altogether, we had 6 children then… now we could have our own sports team. And we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our 37th issue than featuring our very first CoverKid, Griffin. All of this change got us thinking… What about all of the incredible families we have featured on these pages in the last four years? Where are they now? How have their lives changed since we first told their stories? Which is why we decided to take the opportunity in this holiday issue of Owensboro Parent to catch up with some of our favorite families, who have so graciously shared their lives with us over the last four years. I know all of you, like us on staff, have shared in both their grief and joy.
owensboro’s becca greenwell
continues to shine { by: steven wilson }
T
he last time we officially spoke with Becca was way back in 2011, before she entered her junior year of high school. At the time, Becca had already led the Owensboro Catholic Lady Aces basketball team to a Sweet 16 appearance. She had also earned a spot on the USA Basketball U16 national team. Since that time, Becca has been selected as a McDonald’s All-American, committed to play college basketball at Duke University, overcome two ACL tears, and put up 17 points, 10 rebounds, seven steals and three assists in her first regular-season college game. Even with her busy schedule, Becca was kind enough to lend Owensboro Parent a few minutes of her time to give our readers an update on where she’s been and where she plans to go. OP: What did it mean to you to be named a McDonald’s All-American in high school? Did you watch those games growing up? It was a great honor to be considered one of the best high school players in the country as a McDonald’s All-American. It was always a dream of mine and it was an awesome experience to live it out after watching the games on TV growing up. OP: You’re also a part of Team USA. What has been your favorite place to travel with the team? My favorite place I’ve traveled with Team USA was with the U17 team to Italy. We visited Rome and Venice while we were there, and it was an incredible experience I will never forget. Everything about the two cities was beautiful and the food was amazing! I hope to go back some day.
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then
& now
ORIGINAL STORY AUGUST 2011
OP: What’s your fondest memory of the Team USA experience? My fondest memory was winning my first gold medal with the U16 team in Mexico, and receiving the MVP award. OP: Do you anticipate being a part of Team USA going forward? Yes. I made the World University Games Team last summer, which was a huge goal of mine. But unfortunately, I wasn’t able to play because of an illness. I have had nothing but great experiences with USA basketball, so I hope to be a part of the next team, which will be playing in 2017. OP: You started every game as a redshirt freshman. Was there pressure on you to contribute right away? Not really. I think my redshirt year really prepared me well for last season, so I was much more confident than I would have been otherwise. Having a year of practice made the adjustment a lot easier. When I finally got out there, I was mainly just excited to be healthy and playing again, so I tried not to put too much pressure on myself, and just play. The coaches never put much pressure on me either, but I grew a lot over the course of the season, and ended up liking being in those pressure situations.
athletics, and being immersed in such a hardworking culture with awesome support has taught me a lot about myself, and what I can achieve. A Duke degree will go a long way. OP: I have to ask, being from Kentucky, does anyone back home give you a hard time about being a Blue Devil? Yes, all the time. I just think it’s funny, and remind people we’re 2-0 against Kentucky so far. I’m not ashamed and will rep my Duke gear in Owensboro proudly. Plus, I’m still a UK men’s fan. OP: How often are you able to travel back to Owensboro? Quite a bit, actually. I was home last summer for about 2 months, and then I go home a few days for fall break and a few days for Christmas.
OP: Do you see yourself playing professionally after your time at Duke? Yes, I hope to play in the WNBA and overseas.
OP: What are some of your favorite things to do/places to go when you come home? I make sure to stop at all my favorite food spots: Dipper, Great Harvest, Feta, The Famous Bistro, and Lure. Then I spend a lot of time at the Health Park working out and playing basketball. Other than that, I’m usually hanging out with my friends and family, especially my two little sisters, Briley and Emma. I like to take them fun places like Malco to see a movie, Smothers Park, the Green Belt to ride bikes, Orange Leaf, and surprise visit them at school for lunch.
OP: Even if you play professionally after college, how do you feel that Duke is preparing you for life after basketball? Duke has absolutely prepared me for life after basketball. My experience here has helped me grow and mature tremendously. Duke really strives to bring the best out of you in both academics and
OP: Do you have any advice for young girls who look up to you and want to follow in your footsteps? Always work hard, have a positive attitude and have fun! It may not always be easy, but always try to work harder than anyone else and that will take you far.
OP: What are your goals for the remainder of your college basketball career? I want to win back our ACC title, become an All-American and win a National Championship, and with the talent we have this year, we definitely can!
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then
& now
lucky #3 T
ORIGINAL STORY NOVEMBER 2011
www.OwensboroParent.com
he Bell triplets, Lila, Julia and Clark, were featured on the November 2011 cover of Owensboro Parent at 22 months old. Now they are 5 years old and in Kindergarten. Mom, Lenae, says the three are each very different. Julia loves to sing and dance and play. She loves having friends and being social. Lila loves to draw and color and write. She is happy to sit at the table and just create. Sometimes she would rather be with adults than kids her own age. Clark is all boy and just wants to keep up with his big brother--sports, running on the trails, playing Legos. He loves to talk and will as long as he has someone to sit near him.
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then
& now ORIGINAL STORY NOVEMBER 2011
20
homes later { by: ashley sorce }
F
our years ago, Owensboro Parent featured the Lannie Chambers, a single father of two girls and two boys that was at that time receiving the 100th house built by Owensboro’s Habitat for Humanity. This month, Habitat will turn over the keys to their 120th house to Billi Jean Roach, a single mom of two girls. Habitat for Humanity is an international Christian organization founded in 1976 with the huge goal of eliminating poverty housing around the world. The Owensboro chapter of Habitat was founded in 1988. Houses are sold at no profit and no interest to families that pass the application process. The materials and labor hours for each home are funded through donations, volunteers, grants and a 20-year, zero-interest mortgage that the homeowner pays. This 120th house was a Women’s Build, starting with a “build-a-thon” the first weekend of June. The wonderful five-member crew came from Lexington to Owensboro to be in charge of setting walls and trusses for this special house at 1113 Werner Avenue. “Local women volunteers had set the stage,” said Virginia Braswell, director of Owensboro’s
46 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
HFH, “by pre-building the wall components in the Habitat warehouse...ready-set-build!” On the morning of Thursday, June 4, nearly 35 volunteers arrived in their pink “Be Calm...Build On” t-shirts and by that afternoon all the outer walls were in place. The group of volunteers included many teachers, community leaders, Habitat applicants and a special team from First Christian Church. Homeowner-to-be, Billi Jean Roach, is very excited about having her own home. “She was one of many applicants who followed through with her 350 sweat equity hours worked toward other homes and her own,” Virginia said. “Actually she has put in way over that number in her enthusiastic willingness to partner with Habitat. How was she selected for this particular home? Her place in line came up!” The 120th house will be dedicated on Sunday, November 1 at 2 p.m. Billi Jean will close on her home on Monday, November 2. “Then it is all official,” Virginia said.
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then
& now
ORIGINAL STORY FEBRUARY 2012
hurdleafterhurdle { by: ashley sorce }
W
hen we last talked to Michael and Tyler Daugherty in February 2012, their son Owen was just a few weeks away from a life saving kidney transplant. According to mom, Tyler, Owen’s life has changed dramatically since then. He has grown physically (over 10 inches since transplant!) and is reaching many milestones that he was struggling to accomplish before hand. Before transplant, at 22 months, Owen could not stand alone, nor crawl or walk. Within four days of transplant, Owen was in the crawling position and in two weeks he was crawling on his own. He began pulling to stand a couple months later and soon after that was walking with assistance. It didn’t take long for a determined Owen to walk on his own. Before transplant Owen did not eat by mouth. Those that suffer from kidney disease constantly battle nausea and Owen was sick many times through the day, creating an oral aversion. Michael and Tyler are so happy to report that Owen eats three meals a day now, munching on cheeseburgers and pizza, some of his favorites. “We are so proud of every accomplishment Owen achieves,” Tyler said. “We love celebrating him- and he enjoys being praised as well. Through our journey with Owen he has taught us to truly stop and enjoy moments together that are joy filled and authentic.” In other big news, Owen is now a big brother! Abel, born
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in August 2012, has given Owen a brother with whom to bond. “Abel loves Owen and as he’s getting older he is starting to take interest in helping with some of Owen’s medical needs,” Tyler said. “Owen still has a g tube for feeding him water to keep him hydrated throughout the day and Abel helps with each feed. Owen loves Abel and often initiates games of tag with him and likes to help pick out clothes for him to wear. He likes to make books about people he loves and he is always quick to include his little brother.” Owen has done remarkably well since transplant. He has had a couple of hospitalizations due to sickness, but his kidney has remained healthy and kept him growing and in overall good health. A new development in Owen’s life was the diagnosis of Autism in November 2014. Owen’s development was delayed, and it was somewhat expected due to his kidney disease and long stay in the NICU from birth. He participated in early intervention therapies in speech, occupational and physical. But as he got older, the gaps in his development seemed to be lengthening rather than making the strides Tyler and Michael were hoping for. “His diagnosis did not come as a shock,” Tyler said. “However, that does not mean it was an easy pill to swallow. I can’t say that I didn’t feel sorry for Owen. Of course we had our worries. Wasn’t kidney disease enough? We had our time of worry and sorrow. And then we accepted it. Autism isn’t November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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then
& now who Owen is. Yes, it’s a part of Owen. But it doesn’t make him
And of course they include Carrie.
any different than the perfectly created child that I hugged
“There will never be enough gifts, ‘thank you’s’ or ‘I love
and kissed before he had a diagnosis than after. It’s simply a
you’s’ that could come close to expressing our gratitude for
word.”
her life saving gift,” said Michael. “I honestly believe she was
But perhaps the most special part of this story is the
blessed. The tears in her eyes when she sees Owen say it all.”
continued bond Owen shares with his Aunt Carrie, Michael’s sister, who so graciously donated her kidney to Owen in 2012. “They truly are kindred spirits,” said Michael. And as destiny would have it, Carrie works with special needs children in the classroom. “So as we were beginning to see emerging signs for autism in Owen and upon his diagnosis she was (and is) a great resource,” Michael said. “Because she works with special needs children she has a way of communicating with Owen that he responds to well. But of course they have
Looking at Owen from 2012 to now, Michael and Tyler see
a brand new Owen.
“Owen has been given many hurdles in life, but with each
one he has shown bravery that I’m not sure I could muster and endurance that continues to amaze me,” Michael said. “I’ve referred to him as a ‘marathon hurdler.’ Owen’s journey is a marathon and it’s been laced with hurdle after hurdle and he manages to clear each one time and again because
a deeper connection that only they can feel and understand.”
he never gives up. He works harder than any child I know
Each year on April 3, the Daughertys celebrate
to learn to communicate. I firmly believe that there will be
“Kidneyversary,” complete with cake, balloons, presents
a day Owen will open his mouth and words will effortlessly
and singing happy birthday. “We treat it as another birthday
flow. Why shouldn’t I? It’s just one more hurdle he’s ready to
because it was truly a day of new life for Owen,” said Michael.
clear.”
jordan’s heart lives on { by: ashley sorce }
A
day doesn’t pass in which Jordan Grace Hayden isn’t remembered by her family. Pictures of her sweet face can be found around Neil and Kristi Hayden’s house. Big sister, Riley remembers special occasions with Jordan, like singing to her as she lay in her bed at Kosair Children’s Hospital and keeps a stuffed bear with Jordan’s fingerprints in her room. We last spoke with the Hayden family in May 2012 when Jordan Grace was bravely fighting a rare heart defect called Hypoplastic Left heart Syndrome, a defect that only occurs in every 100 births. After four months at Kosair, Jordan passed away when doctors found further complications. “We talk to Riley about Jordan,” Neil said. “We tell her she still has a sister and Riley remembers certain things about 48 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
www.OwensboroParent.com
then
& now Jordan.” As a family The Haydens visit Jordan’s monument in Calhoun and are sure to celebrate Jordan on her birthday. The Haydens have also stayed in contact with Kosair Children’s Hospital. Both teachers, the Haydens held a toy drive last year at a high school basketball game and donated the toys to families staying at the hospital. They have donated stools with Jordan’s name on them, blankets, and many other items, all to families facing extended stays at the hospital. Neil is now a guidance counselor and head boys’ basketball coach at Daviess County High School. On November 14th at the Daviess County High School Winter Sports Chili Supper he is asking people attending to donate a toy for the kids remaining at the hospital during Christmas. “Kristi and I wish to help those families in need because we realize how helpful people were to us during our four months at Kosair,” Neil said. Life has changed for the Hayden family since Jordan passed away, but perhaps the biggest change came with the birth of Matthew ‘Jax’ on July 9, 2013. “Adding Jax to our family has greatly blessed us and dramatically
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changed the pace of our lifestyle with an addition of a little boy,” Neil said. Coping with the death of child is unimaginable, but the Neil says “the most important thing we can do is pray. We will pray with Riley and thank God for our time with her on earth and tell God we look forward to seeing her again in Heaven. Kristi and I realize Riley won’t remember a lot about Jordan and their time together but we continue to talk about Jordan and we will tell Jax about his sister as well.” Jordan’s life has changed the Haydens in many ways. Admitting that they did receive attention after Owensboro Parent featured them in May 2012, Neil says it was all positive. “Jordan’s life has created many opportunities for us to speak to groups and people about her life as well as Jordan’s heart defect (HLHS). It has allowed us to share how we dealt and coped with losing a child. Many people deal with struggles, whether it’s losing a child or dealing with the daily struggles life may present. Jordan’s life has created many opportunities for us to share our faith and how it didn’t waiver. God is still the same God and loving God, even during a difficult circumstance.”
ORIGINAL STORY MAY 2012
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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then
& now thumbs
up
{ by: ashley sorce }
I
n October 2012, Owensboro Parent did something we had never done before and haven’t done since. With just a few
days before we were to put the magazine to print, our staff decided to scrap the cover we had designed in response to an overwhelming outcry on Facebook to feature Lane Goodwin, a young man battling stage IV Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma. At that time, Lane’s story had gone viral, with people across our community, our state and our country giving Lane a thumbs up to support his movement of childhood cancer awareness. Just a few weeks after our magazine released, Lane lost his
50 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
www.OwensboroParent.com
then
& now battle to “the monster.”
one of his wishes was to help other families
Now, three years later, the Goodwin
that are on a similar journey. One of the
family is still keeping Lane’s memory
programs provides gas and food cards along
and his movement alive.
The Thumbs
with a care package for the child, siblings and
Up For Lane Goodwin Childhood Cancer
parents. The other provides the child with an
Foundation remains committed to fulfilling
iPad mini along with a care package for the
Lane’s mission of finding a cause and a
family.
cure for childhood cancer. It is the goal of
the foundation to support childhood cancer
programs, The Thumbs Up For Lane
research through funding and advocacy while
Goodwin Childhood Cancer Foundation
empowering families battling childhood
also co-funded a $190,000 two-year research
cancer by providing education, financial
grant that is testing an antibody against
assistance and a volunteer network.
Rhabdomyosarcoma, something Angie feels
Owensboro Parent spoke with Angie
is one is their biggest accomplishments.
Goodwin, Lane’s mother, who was proud to
“We live in a great community and
report that last year the foundation added
continue to have support from several
two assistance programs called Lane's Legacy
volunteers,” Angie said. “Continuing to stay
of Love. The Goodwin family recognizes the
in the world of childhood cancer on a daily
financial burden that families encounter
basis is very difficult and very emotional. It
while fighting cancer. Lane also loved to
has been a blessing to see how much more
make others smile. He enjoyed sharing his
awareness there is today compared to three
gifts with other children in the hospital and
years ago.”
In addition to adding the two assistance
ORIGINAL STORY OCTOBER 2012
an open door { by: gail e. kirkland }
T
hree years since making it to American Idol, Jenny Beth Willis, 20, a sophomore at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, now has her own band and sings with a group called ‘Redeemed.’ The group will soon embark on an 8-week tour, performing primarily Southern Gospel (5-part harmony) at churches each weekend. That’s just one of many doors opening to the beautiful brunette with powerhouse vocals. “Holidays are one of my busiest times, because I have the Holiday Stroll, and this year I’m doing the
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Holiday Pops Concert with the Symphony. I’m so excited about that,” Jenny Beth said. Although she will have many gigs from now through Christmas (primarily on weekends), Jenny Beth is focusing on her education. “That’s the number one thing right now,” she said. Majoring in music business, she ultimately hopes to attain a law degree and practice entertainment law. Nonetheless, Mary Beth (mom) is still singing on the sidelines (ha!) and has assumed a new role as Jenny
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
51
then
& now Beth’s manager—or mom-ager as she
a song to Carrie Underwood. Songwriters
affectionately calls it. Jeff, her dad, now
pitch their songs to big name singers via
does the sound equipment, which is like
demos. Jenny Beth was asked to open
a high-tech iPad. “We got a big sound
for ROMP this year, which was a huge
system and he loves it; he’s the best,
endorsement. Performances on The
because he really wants me to sound
Pier, Saturday Night Live on the Banks,
good,” Jenny Beth said, explaining
Friday After 5, Nashville Predators and
that the sound can make or break a performer. Originally, Jenny Beth sang mainly country, but she has dramatically expanded her music genres. Recently, she performed at The Grape Stomp, a fundraiser for cystic fibrosis. She sang The National Anthem at The Yum ORIGINAL STORY
Center (U of L regional volleyball game)
APRIL 2013
and at the Nashville Sounds’ game (AAA baseball). Toby Keith’s band played for her latest CD. Last December she released her first EP (a smaller version of a CD with six songs) on iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon, which may not have been possible without the exposure
. November // December 2015
full. “It’s like every performance is an audition,” said Mary Beth, who is responsible for booking gigs throughout the year. Holiday Stroll (Dec. 5) is square in her sights. “I look forward to it so much. It just gets me into the Christmas spirit; I get to be out in the street, and I can walk around and sing Christmas songs . . . it’s just a fun, Christmastime experience,” Jenny Beth said. Singing at home – in Owensboro – remains her favorite. She has a strong fan base here. “There’s something about
of American Idol. “It has opened a lot
singing at home that I just love,” Jenny
of doors for me,” Jenny Beth said. She
Beth said. “I love coming home. Before
continues to write music with Randy
I left for Nashville, I thought I wouldn’t
Lanham, and some of their original
be back to Owensboro much, but I love
songs are on the EP release.
coming home.” To contact her mom-
ager, call (270) 925-2224 or message her
Doors continue to open. A big door
has opened with an opportunity to demo
52 OWENSBORO PARENT
at weddings kept her summer schedule
at jennybethwillis.net or via Facebook.
www.OwensboroParent.com
then
PHOTO BY TRUE REFLECTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY
& now
ORIGINAL STORY
coming full circle
C
hristmas came early for the Aud family—Dec. 21, to be exact. The priceless gift, a 6-lb. 5-oz., blue-eyed baby girl named Ellington Claire born in Florida, an adoption-friendly state. Admittedly, all adoptions are unique. “We had as smooth of a domestic adoption experience as you possibly could,” Sara said. That is somewhat an understatement. The birth mother asked Kyle if he’d like to cut the umbilical cord. Sara stayed in the hospital with “Elle” and her birth mother the entire time; she never left the hospital after she was born. “We were able to build a good bond (with the birth family),” Sara said. In fact, they communicate regularly and are going to a birthday celebration for Elle’s biological siblings’ birthday party. As Sara admitted, this is unusual. “A lot of times there are situations where it’s not in the baby’s best interest for them to be around their birth family for certain reasons; we do not have any of those reasons,” Sara said. They are thankful for the great relationship they have with the birth family, and their purpose in fostering this relationship is to do what’s best for Elle, to be open about her adoption. The Auds used Faithful Adoption Consultants in Atlanta, Ga., to facilitate the adoption process through Mother Goose Adoptions. The consultants have multiple adoption agencies with which they work to place children born in adoption-friendly states. Florida is one of several adoption-friendly states where a 48-hour irrevocable termination of rights law exists. “For us that was really important, having lost Emelia ...” Sara said. In some states, the birth parents have extended time to reverse their decision. It was five months before Elle was legally adopted (through the courts). When the Auds received the call that the birth mother was going into labor that night (Dec. 20), they hurriedly began driving to Gainesville, Fla. “I’m kind of a control freak when it comes to driving, but I was so tired that she drove more than I did . . . we were switching like every two hours going back and forth . . . I think at one point I told her we’re going to have to pull over on the side of
www.OwensboroParent.com
NOVEMBER 2014
{ by: gail e. kirkland }
the road, because I’m done, I can’t do it . . . then she took over,” Kyle said. Sara said they got to the hospital around 9:30 the next morning, after their 10 ½-hour drive. They didn’t have much time to spare; she delivered less than 3 hours after their arrival. The family of three stayed in St. Augustine in a friend’s condo for two weeks after the birth, waiting for approval to cross state lines. They were joined by multiple family members, although Kyle’s sister was due anytime. The warm weather and beach atmosphere created an enjoyable transition period—and a sanctuary from the rampant flu season back home. Sara had made preparations to breast-feed Elle, pumping for every three hours for months prior to her birth. Her intense discipline paid off and she was able to nurse her exclusively for the first month. Then they used donated breast milk for the remainder of her first 8 months. “She’s been an easy baby,” said Sara, explaining that Elle easily took to the paci, bottle, breast. “It’s so hard to remember that she’s adopted,” Kyle said. “Our hearts have been changed by adoption, absolutely... we would have had no qualms about adopting the rest of our family,” Sara said and Kyle concurred. “For us, we definitely want to adopt again. Obviously, we want more biological ones . . . .” Sara is pregnant, due to deliver in February. Elle and her baby brother / sister will be 14 months apart. “You expect it to be sad for them (the birth parents); you don’t expect how much it’s going to affect you, I don’t think—how bittersweet it really is . . . we know that feeling of leaving the hospital without a baby,” Sara said, with full empathy for the birth family. Adoption has brought this family from darkness into brilliant sunlight. Elle, a bundle of sweet sunshine, sat playing on a colorful pallet with her toys, but not for long. Soon, Mom and Dad were holding, patting and loving on her. “We have come full circle,” Sara said. OP
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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{ paid advertorial }
smoking & children
{ by: dr. sarah danhauer osborne }
Where there’s cigarette smoke, there’s a risk to children.
T
he health risks that come along with smoking are not new. The first Surgeon General’s report on smoking and its impact on health was published in 1964. We know that smoking increases the risks for cancer, heart disease and much more. That’s not just for adults, however. The health risks to children are even greater. November is a big month for awareness of smoking-related illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and lung cancer. November 19 is the day of the “Great American Smokeout,” where smokers around the country are encouraged to give up the habit for good. While everyone knows cigarette smoking is not good for the smoker, it is often overlooked how detrimental smoking can be for the people surrounding a smoker. If you have ever considered quitting, or helping a friend or family member quit, there’s no time like the present! If not for yourself, consider quitting for the young people in your life, and here’s some reasons why.
risky behavior The research is clear: There is no safe amount of exposure to tobacco smoke for children. That means things like limiting smoking to one room of the house, keeping a window open while smoking in the car or smoking outside the house don’t make a big difference when it comes to protecting children. The reason for this is that smoke isn’t only in the air around us. When tobacco smoke touches clothing or a surface, it leaves behind toxins and chemicals. That’s why you can smell tobacco smoke inside a smoker’s car, on their clothing, or even in your hair when you’ve been around a smoker. The odor that lingers is because of those chemicals becoming airborne again as you move, and is called “thirdhand smoke.” Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics and The Mayo Clinic has shown that this smoke residue is as, or more, harmful as secondhand smoke. All of this means that there’s only one way to keep children safe with regards to tobacco-related health problems: Don’t smoke around them and don’t let them be exposed to tobacco smoke. If you can smell tobacco smoke that means your child is being exposed to it, even if no one’s smoking right then and there. 54 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
fighting for air and life
Exposure to tobacco smoke is harmful to children before they’re
even born, and these risks continue into infancy and childhood. According to the Surgeon General’s 2014 report on tobacco-associated health risks, more than 100,000 babies have died in the past 50 years because of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), complications from prematurity, complications from low birth weight and other health problems connected to smoke exposure during pregnancy or infancy. That comes out to 2,000 babies a year, or more than five a day. SIDS, where children suddenly die because they stop breathing, is a problem that is not fully understood by medical science. However, we do understand that certain things increase the risk for SIDS, and smoking is one of the biggest risks.
Children exposed to tobacco smoke are also at increased risk for
other health problems. These include: •
Ear infections
•
Coughs and colds
•
Respiratory problems like bronchitis, pneumonia and wheezing
•
Tooth decay (toxins in tobacco smoke settle on teeth and increase the risk of cavities)
None of these are minor problems. Repeated ear infections can
lead to a need for children to have tubes surgically implanted in their ears. Coughs and colds can cause children to miss school, often affecting parents because someone has to stay home with the child, and children with high smoke exposure have a harder time getting over a cold. Bronchitis is painful and can lead to pneumonia, which is potentially fatal to children, and asthma is worsened by smoke exposure and can cause a need for hospitalization for breathing treatments.
life-long impact Smoking isn’t just a risk now. The health effects of smoking are cumulative, meaning the risk of problems grows with repeated exposure to tobacco smoke over time. This is especially problematic for children, who are growing and developing. Smoking exposure can lead to longterm health problems. These include: www.OwensboroParent.com
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November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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“The risks from smoking are not small, and they don’t just affect smokers. Of the 20 million people who have died from smokingrelated illnesses since the first Surgeon General’s report in 1964, 2.5 million were nonsmokers who became sick because of exposure to secondhand smoke.”
56 OWENSBORO PARENT
• • • •
Lung development issues Lung cancer Heart disease Eye cataracts
vapor trails One of the biggest shifts in the smoking population is people switching from tobacco to vaporizers or electronic cigarettes. These have the obvious benefit of not leaving their surroundings smelling like tobacco smoke, but there is growing evidence to suggest that these are not completely risk-free. According to a study conducted by Boston University, cells in the windpipe of people using electronic cigarettes tended to grow faster than normal cells should, a change strongly connected to cancer. That’s also a change that happens with exposure to tobacco smoke. This tells us is that e-cigarettes are still causing cellular changes that we know are connected to cancer. While that’s not definitive proof that e-cigarettes are harmful, it is definitely a cause for concern. My advice is that e-cigarettes shouldn’t be considered “absolutely safe” for use, especially around children. Until we know more, the safest course of action is not to expose children to either e-cigarettes or tobacco smoke.
. November // December 2015
quitters win If you are a smoker, one of the absolute best things you can do for your health is to quit smoking. The benefits won’t just be felt by you, but also for everyone around you, especially children. There’s no denying that quitting tobacco can be a real battle, but it’s a battle you don’t have to take on alone. There are a great deal of resources available out there, including programs that can provide nicotine replacement for free or at reduced costs, as well as options that help keep you accountable and increase your chance of success. To learn more about how to quit smoking or to find out about available resources, visit quitnowkentucky.org or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669). It won’t just be good for your family and friends, but also good for you, and will go a long way to helping make sure you’re around to spend time with your children, grandchildren and other loved ones for years to come. OP
Sarah Danhauer Osborne is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner (CPNP) with Owensboro Health’s One Health Pediatric Center. She is an Owensboro native and a mom of five. She holds degrees from the University of Kentucky and Vanderbilt University. For more information or to make an appointment, call 844-44-MY-ONE (844-446-9663).
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www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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58 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2015
www.OwensboroParent.com
discover
2015 holiday gift guide
www.OwensboroParent.com
ADVERTISERS: [59] C-ING POLKADOTS [59] LANCE & CO. JEWELERS [60] BELLA RAGAZZA BOUTIQUE [63] THE GLASS FACTORY [64] UPPER ROOM MUSIC [65] MALCO THEATRES [65] MURPHY’S APPLIANCE & ELECTRIC COMPANY [66] PEACOCKS & PEARLS BOUTIQUE [67] LODAN JEWELRY DESIGN STUDIO
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
59
top selling kids’ books OF 2015
The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt Poor Duncan just wants to color. But when he opens his box of crayons, he finds only letters, all saying the same thing: His crayons have had enough! They quit! Beige Crayon is tired of playing second fiddle to Brown Crayon. Black wants to be used for more than just outlining. Blue needs a break from coloring all those bodies of water. And Orange and Yellow are no longer speaking—each believes he is the true color of the sun. What can Duncan possibly do to appease all of the crayons and get them back to doing what they do best?
Press Here by Hervé Tullet Press the yellow dot on the cover of this book, follow the instructions within, and embark upon a magical journey! Each page of this surprising book instructs the reader to press the dots, shake the pages, tilt the book, and who knows what will happen next! Children and adults alike will giggle with delight as the dots multiply, change direction, and grow in size! Especially remarkable because the adventure occurs on the flat surface of the simple, printed page, this unique picture book about the power of imagination and interactivity will provide read-aloud fun for all ages!
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. November // December 2015
Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker and Tom Lichtenheld As the sun sets behind the big construction site, all the hardworking trucks get ready to say goodnight. One by one, Crane Truck, Cement Mixer, Dump Truck, Bulldozer, and Excavator finish their work and lie down to rest—so they’ll be ready for another day of rough and tough construction play! With irresistible artwork by best-selling illustrator Tom Lichtenheld and sweet, rhyming text, this book will have truck lovers of all ages begging for more.
The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak You might think a book with no pictures seems boring and serious. Except . . . here’s how books work. Everything written on the page has to be said by the person reading it aloud. Even if the words say . . . BLORK. Or BLUURF. Even if the words are a preposterous song about eating ants for breakfast, or just a list of astonishingly goofy sounds like BLAGGITY BLAGGITY and GLIBBITY GLOBBITY. Cleverly irreverent and irresistibly silly, The Book with No Pictures is one that kids will beg to hear again and again. (And parents will be happy to oblige.)
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Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin Dragons love tacos. They love chicken tacos, beef tacos, great big tacos, and teeny tiny tacos. So if you want to lure a bunch of dragons to your party, you should definitely serve tacos. Buckets and buckets of tacos. Unfortunately, where there are tacos, there is also salsa. And if a dragon accidentally eats spicy salsa . . . oh, boy. You’re in redhot trouble.
Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by James Dean Pete the Cat goes walking down the street wearing his brand new white shoes. Along the way, his shoes change from white to red to blue to brown to WET as he steps in piles of strawberries, blueberries, and other big messes! But no matter what color his shoes are, Pete keeps movin’ and groovin’ and singing his song... because it’s all good. Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes asks the reader questions about the colors of
Waiting is Not Easy by Mo Willems Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In Waiting Is Not Easy!, Piggie has a surprise for Gerald, but he is going to have to wait for it. And Wait. And wait some more...
different foods and objects.
The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat This magical story begins on an island far away where an imaginary friend is born. He patiently waits his turn to be chosen by a real child, but when he is overlooked time and again, he sets off on an incredible journey to the bustling city, where
Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty Rosie may seem quiet during the day, but at night she’s a brilliant inventor of gizmos and gadgets who dreams of becoming a great engineer. When her great-greataunt Rose (Rosie the Riveter) comes for a visit and mentions her one unfinished goal--to fly--Rosie sets to work building a contraption to make her aunt’s dream come true. But when her contraption doesn’t fly but rather hovers for a moment and then crashes, Rosie deems the invention a failure. On the contrary, Aunt Rose insists that Rosie’s contraption was a raging success. You can only truly fail, she explains, if you quit.
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he finally meets his perfect match and-at long last-is given his special name: Beekle.
The Pigeon Needs a Bath! by Mo Willems The Pigeon really needs a bath! Except, the Pigeon’s not so sure about that. Besides, he took a bath last month! Maybe. It’s going to take some serious convincing to try and get the Pigeon to take the plunge.
OP
November // December 2015 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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top selling kids’ toys OF 2015
Lamaze Pippin the Push Along Pup Suggested age: 6 months+ Price: $24.99 This brightly colored, multi-textured pup encourages hand-eye coordination and grossmotor skill development and is sure to catch the eye of your little one. Featured as a best toy in Toy Industry Association’s “Infant/Toddler Toys of the Year,” Push Along Pup comes with a bone and ball that baby will love putting in the storage bag for putin, take-out play.
Original BedBug Suggested age: 6 months+ Price: $29.99 Developed by a mom on a mission, these snuggly little bugs help soothe children when Mom or Dad is away. Record up to three personalized messages, such as saying “goodnight,” “good morning” or even a three-minute story—all of which can be changed easily. Your little one can hear your voice by squeezing one of the BedBug’s satin feet.
Fisher-Price Little People Musical Preschool Suggested age: 1 to 5 years Price: $39.99 One of Walmart’s Top 100 Toys, this musical preschool will help transition your little ones for what to expect when they start school or let those who’ve already been there re-create their own experience. Just like at many real preschools, the Little People friends have their own spots on the rug, but these make music! This educational toy features more than 35 sounds, phrases and songs, such as making the dino roar or the aquarium bubble.
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Toymail WIFI Messaging Toy Buck the Deer Mailman Suggested age: 3+ Price: $59.99 A throwback to the walkie-talkies Mom and Dad grew up with, these innovative cuties are a genius means of connecting with the next generation. Record a voice message to your kid using the free Toymail app (available on IOS and Android), which gets delivered via the Wi-Fi connected Mailman, like Buck here. Your child can reply too, and the Toymail app stores your conversation like a digital scrapbook—a perfect gift for long-distance and military families or those who travel for business.
Pley.com Subscription or Gift Card Suggested age: 2+ Price: $19, $29 or $39 monthly subscription options; gift cards in any amount also available Does your kid need one more toy lying around the house? Probably not, but try telling him or her that! One mom co-founded a great solution—Pley.com, the “Netflix of LEGOs.” For a monthly subscription, kids choose sets to receive in their “pleylists,” which arrive by mail. When they’re ready to swap, you send the sets back to Pley. The company then counts and sanitizes them in an eco-cleaning solution and sends another set from the list. In addition to being economical and eliminating household clutter, Pley teaches kids about sharing and is environmentally friendly. So far Pley says it has eliminated 150,000 pounds of ABS plastic in landfills, and every set that is rented saves a tree over its rental period. Three popular Minecraft LEGO sets, “The Village,” “The Forest” and “The Nether,” which are based on the hit video game, are also available through the service this holiday season.
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www.OwensboroParent.com
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Rue, the WorryWoo Monster of Insecurity and Storybook Suggested age: 3+ Price: $36 Winner of an Iparenting Award and a Creative Child Top Toy Award, Rue and his story, “The Nose That Didn’t Fit” teaches kids of all ages about insecurity, self acceptance, perception and confidence. Other WorryWoo Monsters that help kids embrace their emotions include Wince (the Monster of Worry), Nola (the Monster of Loneliness), Twitch (the Monster of Frustration), Squeek (the Monster of Innocence) and Fuddle (the Monster of Confusion). The super soft and cute Woos meet ASTM and EN71 safety standards, and their stories are printed with environmentally friendly soy inks.
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Jetaire Camper Play Tent Suggested age: 3+ Price: $249 Skip the bugs and bring the fun of one of summer’s favorite pastimes to your living room anytime with this ultimate play tent. What kid wouldn’t love this modern take on the fort? Handmade and handstitched, the camper features seven windows, an embroidered license plate, logo and patchwork tire. Throw in some S’mores fixings and be prepared to be the sleepover hit of the year.
Super Pop-Up Pirate Suggested age: 4+ Price: $24.99 This new toy for the 2015 holidays promises hours of laughs for the whole family. Players take turns sliding colorful swords into the barrel to see which matey will launch the pirate. Grab your best seaworthy snacks and set sail for some fun family bonding time.
www.OwensboroParent.com
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Stretch ‘N’ Shout Leonardo
Disney Karaoke Series: “Frozen” CD Suggested age: all ages Price: $8.99 Our list could not be complete without a gift for all the fans of Disney’s “Frozen” out there. Sing along to eight instrumental and eight vocal tracks from the Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature. It’s okay, we know you secretly want to belt out your own rendition of “Let it Go” when no one’s watching!
Beados Quick Dry Design Station Suggested age: 4+ Price: $19.99 Craft activities are a hot trend this year, and these colorful beads that fuse with water are being produced around the clock to keep up with demand. They sold out in stores across the country and online within days. Beados are a hit with parents because they’re a mess-free activity that encourages creativity and the development of fine-motor skills. The Beados Quick Dry Design Station includes 500 beads, two display trays, six design templates, spray bottle and quick-dry fan.
www.OwensboroParent.com
Suggested age: 4+ Price: $24.99 It’s Turtle time! Dad might have just as much fun as your child stretching this hero in a half-shell’s arms in order to raise the pitch of his voice. This eight-inch tall toy that’s on many retailers’ best toys lists also shouts his (and Dad’s) fave battle cries.
My Little Pony Pop Starter Kit Suggested age: 4+ Price: $3.99 Here’s
a
great
stocking
stuffer for a little girl who can’t
choose
a
favorite
My Little Pony—now she doesn’t have to! The new My Little Pony Pop line allows children to personalize their pony’s hairstyles, outfits, cutie marks and wings. Each starter kit, like this Rainbow Dash kit, includes one pony body, hair, tail, wings and stickers. So, if you purchase an Applejack kit too, she can make her own AppleDash.
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www.OwensboroParent.com
My Monopoly Little Live Pets Butterfly Starter Pack
Suggested age: 8+ Price: $19.99
Suggested age: 5+ Price: $21.99
Join celebs like
Little Live Pets Butterfly
Jennie Garth who
Starter Pack is a “hot toy”
are raving about
available
My Monopoly, a
exclusively
from
Toys R Us. These bright,
Monopoly
electronic butterflies are sure to fly to the top of wish
you personalize with your own photos and memories.
lists this year. These life-like butterflies flutter faster
This new spin on an old classic allows players
to show their happiness the more your child plays
to customize their game tokens, properties, and
with them.
Chance and Community Chest cards through the My
board
Monopoly app or at www.mymonopoly.com.
Bounce-Off Suggested age: 8 to 88 years Price: $17.99 Featured
as
Project Kid Deluxe Craft Box
Industry
Suggested age: 5 to 10 years Price: $39
A s s o c i a t i o n’ s
This deluxe craft
Game of the Year, this game is bouncing its way onto
box has everything you need to fight cabin fever
many best toys lists for good reason. Two to four
with crafting, including essential supplies and a
players race to bounce ping pong balls into patterns
copy of Amanda Kingloff ’s book, “Project Kid: 100
listed on the challenge cards in an ultimate head-to-
Ingenious Crafts for Kids.” And you can rest assured
head competition—perfect for family game nights
that all Darby Smart supplies are quality tested with
and parties.
step-by-step directions delivered to your door.
a Toy
www.OwensboroParent.com
finalist
for
OP
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discover
H
oliday decorations are beautiful, but they can become a safety hazard for young children. Artificial
spray snow can severely irritate the lungs if inhaled so keep these out of reach. Avoid using breakable or sharp decorations and use caution with sharp ornament hangers. Also avoid decorations that resemble candy or food because small children may try to eat them. Popcorn or cranberry garlands can be a choking hazard for little ones. Bubble lights are less common these days, but they contain a fluid that is poisonous if ingested. Certain seasonal plants, such as mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias are also potentially poisonous if ingested. Contact the National Poison Center at (800) 222-1222 if you have concerns regarding an ingestion. Add the number to your phone’s contact list so it is handy if you need it. When traveling or visiting other homes for holiday events and parties, remember to keep a very close eye on your children. If the party host does not have kids, the home is probably not child-proofed. Be aware of accessible stairs, uncovered outlets, and cabinets that could contain hazardous chemicals. Although you may avoid them at home, candles or fires in the fireplace are common at holiday gatherings. For older children, teach them the importance of steering clear of open flames. Our family mantra when visiting others is “We look with our eyes, not with our hands.” Speaking of hands, this is a good time to review and enforce good hand hygiene practices to prevent
healthy
holidays { by: shanna mcginnis,
MD
}
the spread of cold and flu viruses.
Caution should be exercised when it comes to food and
drinks at parties as well. If your children have food allergies, be sure to inquire about ingredients used. Seasonal baked goods contain some of the most common food allergens - milk, eggs, nuts, and wheat. If you are not able to get ingredient information, err on the side of caution and choose a different food. When in doubt, leave it out. If you have been advised by your doctor to carry an EpiPen, make sure you have it with you, not just during holiday parties, but all the time. Also be attentive to bowls or trays of food
Delicious home cooked meals, twinkling lights, bedtime stories by the fire, and a trip to the emergency room. This could be your list of holiday memories if you fail to take the proper precautions this season. It is easy to neglect safety during all of the hustle and bustle, but proper preparation can make the difference between a hectic or a happy holiday. 68 OWENSBORO PARENT
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or candies left on tables during “open house” style events. Although this is a practical strategy for easy entertaining, it can get little ones into trouble if they eat foods that are choking hazards or allergy risks. If alcohol is being served, ensure that your child’s beverage is nonalcoholic and they are not sneaking sips from other cups. One of the most fun parts about this time of year is gift giving, but nothing will ruin the fun more quickly www.OwensboroParent.com
than a toy-related illness or injury. Ensure that the toy is age appropriate. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members (at least in my family) are notorious for purchasing toys that are too advanced. A toy that may be appropriate and safe for a 10-year-old may not be for a 5-year-old. It probably will not be fun for the younger child either. Be sure that art supplies, such as crayons, markers, paints, and clay, are non-toxic. Painted toys should be covered in lead-free paint. Lead paint has been banned in the United States since 1978; however, it may be found on vintage toys or products imported from other countries. With so much online shopping these days, it is becoming easier to receive a toy that contains lead paint. For more information on toy safety, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website at http://www. cpsc.gov/. The holidays are a great time to gather with friends and family, but don’t leave safety out of your celebration. We hope you have a happy and healthy holiday this year!
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 Turkey Scavenger Hunt
holiday activity guide
Entertaining your kids can be a tricky business at the best of times, but even more difficult during the holidays. For kids, the thought of a few weeks off from school is enough to send them into a whirlwind of excitement. For us parents, it can be difficult to find something to do to occupy all this free time. Owensboro Parent has compiled a list of fun-filled activities you can do with the whole family during the holiday season.
november
Christmas Parade – A Bicentennial Christmas November 21, 4 – 7:30 p.m.
The Owensboro Christmas Parade, “where Kentucky starts Christmas.” For 79 years, the Owensboro Christmas Parade has been an annual, holiday family tradition, taking place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Each year, thousands line the streets of downtown Owensboro as nearly 120 floats, marching bands and other displays roll by, handing out candy to children eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival on the very last float. This year Owensboro’s own Florence Henderson will Grand Marshal the parade.
Gingerbread Man Decorating Contest (Tentative) November 1 – 22 | Daviess County Public Library
Children are invited to design a gingerbread man. Winning designs will be announced December 5 at the Owensboro Convention Center during Gingerbread Impossible. This event is for ages 3-12. For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250.
Old Fashioned Christmas Tree Decorating
November 23 - 25 | Daviess County Public Library
Find the hidden turkey feathers in the Children’s Area to win a small prize. For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250.
december Holiday in The Park
Visit daily from November 26 through January 3.
Walk through the beautifully decorated Legion Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday!
Owensboro Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker Brunch Saturday, December 5, 11:30 a.m. | Cannon Hall Stage at RiverPark Center Plenty of excitement for boys and girls ages 3 to 10 years old. Come get your picture taken with the principal characters from the Nutcracker, visit with Santa, enjoy a great meal with Chef Gil plus a Nutcracker craft and take home a goody bag. For tickets email odt1982@gmail or call 270-684-9580. Space is limited.
The Nutcracker Presented by Owensboro Dance Theatre Saturday, December 5, 7 p.m. | RiverPark Center
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is brought to life on the Cannon Hall stage with elaborate sets, costumes and one very special toy. Children of all ages will find the magic and joy of Christmas through the beauty of music and dance. This outstanding production will fill the stage with light, movement, color and sound and delight students with its imaginative renderings of a classic ballet. Showcasing performances by 6 seasoned professional dancers from Atlanta, Chicago and Denver, audiences will be thrilled by their expertise, grace and athleticism.
Children’s Winter Reading Program December 1 - 31 | Daviess County Public Library
Children are invited to wrap up the year with some good reads and prizes. Read 5 books and win a prize! Sign up at www.dcplibrary.org or visit the library. This event is for ages 0-12. For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250.
Christmas Tree Decorating Drop-in Craft December 1, 4 – 6 p.m. | Daviess County Public Library
Drop in to create a fun ornament to help decorate the library Christmas tree. This event is for ages 12 and younger. For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250.
Guess the Holiday Characters December 7 - 23 | Daviess County Public Library
Guess the characters on display to win a small prize. For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250.
November 24, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. | Daviess County Public Library
Invite the family and join us for our annual Christmas Tree decorating event. The United Daughters of the Confederacy will talk about how pioneers celebrated the holidays, and then we will decorate our tree the old-fashioned way. For more information, please contact 270684-0211, ext. 250. 70 OWENSBORO PARENT
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Sundown Storytime: Winter Tales December 8, 6 - 7 p.m. | Daviess County Public Library
Get cozy in your warmest pajamas and join us for some cool winter stories and a fun craft. Recommended for families. For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250. www.OwensboroParent.com
Storytime with Santa December 15, 10 - 11 a.m. | Daviess County Public Library
Join Santa for a fun Christmas story time and craft. Don’t forget to bring your camera for the meet & greet after the program! For more information, please contact 270-684-0211, ext. 250.
Ice Skating December – January 1 | Edge Ice Center
Holiday Stroll Saturday, December 5, 1 - 8 p.m. | Downtown Owensboro
Stroll the downtown streets to get in the holiday spirit. Strolling carolers, storefront decorations, and indoor performers will make this evening a reminder of the good ole days of being downtown at Christmas. The stroll will take place on Second and Third Streets from Daviess to St. Ann. The official lighting of the holiday tree in Smothers Park will also take place.
Skate with Santa Saturday, December 12, 1-4 p.m.| Edge Ice Center
Your kids will love this family event! Enjoy a classic winter pastime and make it even more festive with Santa. Cost is $5 and includes free hot chocolate. Contact Edge Ice Center at 270-687-8720 for more information.
Holiday Break Camp December 21-31 | Owensboro Parks and Recreation
Tis the season to be jolly! Register your child for Holiday Camp with Owensboro Parks and Recreation so he/she can be jolly with us and have a great time making new friends, playing, and just being a kid. Our Day Camp is the only traditional day camp in Owensboro Kentucky with accreditation from the American Camp Association. Holiday Break Camp will be an unforgettable experience full of fun and excitement! Camp hours are Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. There will be no camp on December 24-25 or January 1. The cost is $70 for the whole week and $60 for 3 days or fewer. The deadline to register is December 11. Contact Owensboro Parks and Recreation at 270-687-8700 for more information.
Owensboro Christmas Show December 4-5-6 | Owensboro Convention Center
Over 200 vendors from across the region selling 1,000’s of Christmas gift items with even more Christmas craft booths than last year. While this is a great event for shopping, it will also be the perfect event for kids with free pictures with Santa and free inflatables. Admission is $2 for adults. Children 12 and under are free.
Holiday Stroll Gingerbread Celebration December 5 | 1 – 6 p.m.
During the Downtown Holiday Stroll, stroll right on over to the Owensboro Convention Center for free story time, cookie decorating, and more.
UK vs. UL Game Watch December 26 | Owensboro Convention Center
Join us to watch the big game! Admission is free and no reservations are needed. www.OwensboroParent.com
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discover
the kids eat free list
Monday
Bob Evans – free kids meals with the
Catfish Willy’s - $1.99 kids meal with the
purchase of adult meal for kids 12 and
purchase of adult meal
younger; kids get a special treat of icing their own cookie
Grandy’s - 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of regular adult meal
purchase Red Lobster – free kids meal with coupon available on website or Facebook page
of adult meal entrée purchase from 3 – 9 p.m. for kids 10
Pizza Hut – 1 free child buffet with the
years and younger
purchase of adult buffet from 5 – 8 p.m. at
TGI Fridays – free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée for kids 12 years and younger
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée from 4 – 8 p.m. for kids 12 years and younger
. November // December 2015
Fazoli’s - 99¢ kids meals with the purchase
Shoney’s – 2 free kids meals per adult
Tuesday
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Denny’s – 2 free kids meals per adult meal
the South Frederica location. Red Lobster – free kids meal with coupon available on website or Facebook page Salsarita’s – free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only
www.OwensboroParent.com
Wednesday
Saturday
Ole South Barbecue – 1 free kids meal per
Maloney’s – free kids meals from
adult meal purchase for kids 12 and younger
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Red Lobster – free kids meal with coupon
Texas Roadhouse – 2 free kids meals per
available on website or Facebook page
adult entrée from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Thursday
Sunday
Bee Bop’s – free kids meal with the purchase of
Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal per adult
adult meal after 5 p.m. for kids 12 and younger
entrée for kids 10 and younger
Captain D’s – 2 free kids meals with adult
Maloney’s – free kids meals from
meal purchase; dine in only
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Red Lobster – free kids meal with coupon
Salsarita’s – free kids meal with the purchase
available on website or Facebook page
of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only
Ryan’s - 99¢ kids buffet for children 11 years
Texas Roadhouse – 2 free kids meals per
and younger
adult entrée from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation.
www.OwensboroParent.com
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november // december 2015 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.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2 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. SOUP DAY Goodfellows Club annual Soup Day fundraiser held at Settle Memorial Church.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 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, NOVEMBER 4 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, NOVEMBER 5 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. LANCE & CO ANNIVERSARY SALE All in-store items will be 20-50% off. November 5-7.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 CONNECTING WOMEN’S CONFERENCE Join us for the first ever Connecting Women Conference, November 6-7, 2015 as we bring women of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds together to empower them to live out God’s Word. Together, along with featured speakers Liz Curtis Higgs and Angie Smith, we will explore our conference theme of “Letting Go” all that holds us back from running His race (Hebrews 12:1). This is a twoday event. Attendees will receive a wristband upon registration Friday, beginning at 5:30 pm, that will allow entrance on Saturday. Visit ConnectingConference.com for information, schedule, and hotel accommodations or call First Baptist Owensboro at 270-683-3505.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 FREE VETERANS DAY PARADE Join our
community in downtown Owensboro in a patriotic salute in honor of our veterans! Thank our veterans for their service! Parade will take place on Second Street through Downtown Owensboro and will begin at 2 p.m.
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FREE DAVIESS COUNTY, KENTUCKY:
CELEBRATING OUR HERITAGE BOOK SIGNING at the Baker’s Rack from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 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 80 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. 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. THE GRAND PUMPKIN SMASH FESTIVAL Don’t trash ’em, smash ’em! It’ll be a smash’em, bash’em kind of day at Trunnell’s! Join us for our First-Annual Pumpkin Smash! It will be a day of OOEY-GOOEY FUN we’ll be having with activities ranging from The Giant Pumpkin Roll, Whack-A-Pumpkin, The Great Pumpkin Drop, The Tractor Smash, Pumpkin Darts, Pumpkin Chunk’N, Pumpkin T-ball, Pumpkin Baseball, Bash’Em & Smash’Em, Pumpkin Bowling, & there will be a few Pumpkin Smash’em Surprises! Get Lost in the Farm Scene Investigation Corn Maze, get your face painted, Slide on the Giant Slide, Listen to the Live Entertainment and more “Absolutely Farmtastic Fun!” 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Trunnell’s Farm Market, 9255 US 431. THE 45TH ANNUAL JUNIOR LEAGUE RUMMAGE SALE Hundreds of thousands of quality items from furniture to high-end fashion and tools to toys are available for bargain prices. Increasing the value of these items is knowing that the money raised goes directly back into our local community through the volunteer services Junior League members provide in the areas of child welfare, family development, literacy, safety and nutrition; 7 a.m.; Owensboro Sportscenter, 1215 Hickman Ave.; Contact Missie Hayden at 270-244-6161 for more information. KENTUCKY REMEMBERS VETERANS DAY 5K This run/walk is to Honor and Remember the sacrifice of thousands of American soldiers who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Since 9/11, Kentucky alone has lost 114 heroes. Runners are encouraged to carry one of the marked flags in memory of a fallen hero. Proceeds will benefit the Bluegrass Chapter of the Honor Flight and the Honor and Remember Organization. Cost is $25
regular participation, $20 student and active duty military; 5K begins as 8 a.m.; Registration is open online at www.doactivities.com KIDS 1K TURKEY TROT You are invited to First Saturday For Kids at Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens. This is a fun, hands on learning event from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for kids ages 6 – 10. $1 admission for non-members and FREE for members and their children, grandchildren, nieces & nephews, neighbors, and friends of The Garden! CHRISTMAS VENDOR FAIR @ PLEASANT VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH Over 20 Vendors will be in attendance and there will be a silent auction! All proceeds go to purchase Christmas gifts for families in need! This event is open to the public. 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.; 800 Pleasant Valley Road, off Hwy 60 East behind Consumers Mall. For more information, please email to doyles03@gmail.com.
FREE GRIEF CAMP FOR KIDS “Camp
Memory 2015” Glenn Family Services is sponsoring their 5th annual CAMP MEMORY November 7th. This camp is for young people ages 6-16 years of age who have experienced the death of a relative or close friend. The goals of the camp are to offer an opportunity for young people to commemorate and remember loved ones and to better understand the feelings associated with loss & grief. This event will be held at Mount St. Joseph Retreat Center, 8001 Cummings Rd. Maple Mt, KY 42356. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. We will end the day with a balloon release at 2 pm. You may call 270-683-1505 and ask for Betty to register. www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE!
Visit the library every Saturday morning from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org GREAT SOUTHERN GUN & KNIFE SHOW Great Southern Gun & Knife Shows, LLC has promoted high quality gun shows since 1984. With an emphasis on quality, safety and security we are excited to bring our brand of expertise to Owensboro. Show will be at the Owensboro Convention Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost for adults is $5, for kids 6-12 is $2, kids 6 and under are free.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 PRESERVATION STATION See event description on Saturday, November 7. GREAT SOUTHERN GUN & KNIFE SHOW See event description on Saturday, November 7.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 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, NOVEMBER 10 AN EVENING WITH CASTING CROWNS Enjoy An Evening with Casting Crowns along with special guest, Lauren Daigle. Casting Crowns, the Grammy and Dove
www.OwensboroParent.com
Award winning group, has consistently delivered songs that spur listeners to evaluate their relationship with God and with each other. “The basic idea is let God define himself through you and if you’ll do that, you’re going to thrive,” says front man Mark Hall. “Joy unspeakable! Faith unsinkable! Love Unstoppable! Anything is possible!” An Evening with Casting Crowns is sponsored by Christian Family Radio and WEHT/WTVW. Ticket Prices: $20, $35, and $50. Tickets will go on sale Friday, September 18 at 9:00am and will be available online at www.owensborotickets.com, at the Owensboro Convention Center Box Office, or charge by phone at 270-687-8800. 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, NOVEMBER 11 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. VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION Veterans join us under the tents in the Glenn Funeral Home parking lot from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Lunch provided by Old Hickory Bar-B-Q. Live music and entertainment provided by Cathy and Tommy Mullins.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 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. CORK & CUISINE – AN EVENING ON THE RHINE The 6th installment transports attendees to along the Rhine River. An Evening on the Rhine is an exclusive and unique 5-course food, wine, and spirits pairing event catered to selections from German and Bavarian cuisine; 6 – 9 p.m.; Owensboro Convention Center.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 2015 KRAFTUCKY ARTS & CRAFT EXPO The second annual Kraftucky Arts & Crafts Expo is November 13 through the 15 at the Owensboro Convention Center! Just in time for the holidays, shop unique handmade creations in jewelry, clothing, pottery, décor, woodwork, and much more! The premier consumer craft show of the season, Kraftucky will serve as a central location for arts and crafts enthusiasts and vendors to collaborate on and purchase the newest trends and products. Times: Friday, Nov. 13: 2pm – 7pm | Saturday, Nov. 14: 9am – 6pm | Sunday, Nov. 15: 11am – 4pm.; Tickets: $3.00 for Adults & Children 11 and under are FREE!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 OWENSBORO SYMPHONY Orchestra presents
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calendar Marriage of Figaro The Marriage of Figaro is a tender comedy in which a countess and her servant join forces to punish her aristocrat husband for his philandering. In the process, two very different couples learn humbling lessons about life and love. The Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, Kentucky Opera and Kentucky Wesleyan Singers will present an evening of opera that will be familiar to all. From cartoons to commercials and movie soundtracks, Mozart’s feisty overture and beautiful arias from this famous tale of love, revenge and forgiveness have infused pop culture for decades; 7 – 9 p.m. at RiverPark Center. CATHEDRAL PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUND FUNDRAISER AT THE CAMPBELL CLUB This event will be a farm to table prime rib dinner with wine pairings. There will be a cocktail hour with cash bar and silent auction from 6 – 7 p.m., with the prime rib dinner beginning at 7 p.m. The cost is $75 per plate, which includes wine pairings. Purchase a table for six includes a bottle of wine. Call the Campbell Club for reservations at 270-684-4249.
mission of saving babies. After enjoying a large reception, while bidding on enticing silent auction packages, guests are invited to bid on a variety of packages related to entertainment, dining, leisure and travel in our exciting live auction; 6 – 9 p.m. at The Hines Center.
marching bands and other displays roll by, handing out candy to children eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival on the very last float. This year Owensboro’s own Florence Henderson will Grand Marshal the parade. Parade begins at 4 p.m.
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.
HOLIDAY AFTERNOON TEA hosted by the Good Manners Club with Kentucky’s Etiquette Lady. Located at the Campbell Club from 3–5 p.m. R.S.V.P. by emailing vroberts@ thegoodmannersclub.com, or call 270-5701776.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 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, NOVEMBER 19 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.
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT PRESERVATION STATION Come see the old school transformed into a winter wonderland. We will have treats for our visitors, special holiday sales, Christmas music, Santa, and much more. Call 270-993-7532, go to www. visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on Facebook.
GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL This touching and hilarious ‘tell-it-like-it-is’ musical takes audiences on a journey into the lives of a FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20 group of female friends. Audience members THE BERNENSTAIN BEARS IN FAMILY MATTERS can’t help but laugh, cry and even find FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Appropriate for Mamas, Papas, and Young Visit the library every Saturday morning Cubs of all ages, in this live musical production themselves singing and dancing in the aisles as some of the most popular hit songs of the from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and filled with fun songs and dancing, the 80s and 90s make this musical a fan favorite! educational activities with a focus on literacy Berenstain Bears learn important life lessons. Follow five friends as they visit their past, and school readiness; Daviess County Public Using the iconic stories and imagery of the celebrate their present, and look to the future Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org books, you and your family will see Bear on a wild and hilarious night out … and you’ll Country come to life on stage while learning 2015 KRAFTUCKY ARTS & CRAFT EXPO See event about the importance of honesty, health, and recognize a bit yourselves in every one of description on Friday, November 13. safety. In the end, it becomes clear to each of them! It is described as “Desperate Housewives the Berenstain Bears that what truly matters is meets Mamma Mia” (Applause Magazine), “A boisterous, bust-out, bawdy musical revue” SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 family; 6:30 p.m. at RiverPark Center. (Wisconsin State Journal), “An infectious, 2015 KRAFTUCKY ARTS & CRAFT EXPO See event exhilarating sense of intoxication (Hollywood description on Friday, November 13. CHRISTMAS ART SALE of local artist Kelly Reporter) and “As funny and outrageous as Sex McClelland November 20th and 21st from and the City!” (The Advocate).GIRLS NIGHT is MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. at Studio Slant, 624 bursting with energy and is packed with hits FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and Emory Drive. “Lady Marmalade,” “It’s Raining Men,” “Man I younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – Feel Like A Woman,” “I Will Survive,” “We are 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Family” and many more; 8 p.m at RiverPark 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. FREE CHRISTMAS PARADE – A BICENTENNIAL CHRISTMAS The Owensboro Christmas Parade, Center. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 “where Kentucky starts Christmas.” For 79 FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! MARCH OF DIMES SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION years, the Owensboro Christmas Parade has Visit the library every Saturday morning Signature Chefs Auctions are exciting events been an annual, holiday family tradition, taking from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and that pay tribute to the culinary distinction place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. educational activities with a focus on literacy of over 20 of the finest restaurants while Each year, thousands line the streets of and school readiness; Daviess County Public raising money to support the March of Dimes downtown Owensboro as nearly 120 floats, Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
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THE KING, THE KILLER AND THE MAN IN BLACK A tribute to the legends of sun records: Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash. Starring Elvis tribute artist Brad McCrady, Rockin’ Terry Lee & his pumpin’ piano, & Johnny Cash tribute artist Frank Hamilton special guest Barry Potter & The Hosscats; 7 – 9 p.m. at Diamond Lake Resort Good Time Theater.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23 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, NOVEMBER 24 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, NOVEMBER 25 RAGTIME THE MUSICAL At the dawn of a new century, everything is changing…and anything is possible. The stories of an upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a daring young Harlem musician unfold set in turn-of-the-century New York, all three united by their desire and belief in a brighter tomorrow; 7 p.m. at RiverPark Center. 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, NOVEMBER 26
Thanksgiving
FREE HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Walk through the beautiful decorated Legion
Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday! Visit daily from November 26 through January 3.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 FREE HOLIDAY IN THE PARK WALK through the beautiful decorated Legion Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday! Visit daily from November 26 through January 3.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the library every Saturday morning
from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Walk through the beautiful decorated Legion
Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday! Visit daily from November 26 through January 3.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29 FREE HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Walk through the beautiful decorated Legion
Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday! Visit daily from November 26 through January 3.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30 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 HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Walk through the beautiful decorated Legion
Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday! Visit daily from November 26 thru January 3.
ALL MONTH OF DECEMBER FREE HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Walk through the beautiful decorated Legion
Park and you will truly become filled with the joy and spirit of the Holiday! Visit daily from November 26 through January 3.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 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 www.OwensboroParent.com
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calendar OWENSBORO DANCE THEATRE’S NUTCRACKER BRUNCH Held on Cannon Hall Stage at RiverPark Center with plenty of excitement for boys and girls ages 3 to 10 years old. Come get your picture taken with the principal characters from the Nutcracker, visit with Santa, enjoy a great meal with Chef Gil plus a Nutcracker craft and take home a goody bag. For tickets email odt1982@gmail or call 270-684-9580. Space is limited.
ubouncepartyhouse.com.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 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, DECEMBER 3 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. SPA-LIDAY OPEN HOUSE at Advanced Aesthetics, 2821 New Hartford Road, from 12 – 8 p.m. Enjoy 25% off all spa products and procedures! Complimentary Hors d’oeuvres and product demonstrations.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 SMALL OFFICE HOLIDAY LUNCH at the Owensboro Convention Center from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Ticket includes admission to the Owensboro Christmas Show. OWENSBORO CHRISTMAS SHOW at the Owensboro Convention Center from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. www.OwensboroChristmasShow. com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 OWENSBORO CHRISTMAS SHOW at the Owensboro Convention Center from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. www.OwensboroChristmasShow. com. FREE GINGERBREAD CELEBRATION AND
HOLIDAY STROLL Stroll the downtown streets to get in the holiday spirit. Strolling carolers, storefront decorations, and indoor performers will make this evening a reminder of the good ole days of being downtown at Christmas. The stroll will take place on Second and Third Streets from Daviess to St. Ann from 4 - 8 p.m. The official lighting of the holiday tree in Smothers Park will also take place. During the Downtown Holiday Stroll, stroll right on over to the Owensboro Convention Center for free story time, cookie decorating, and more from 1 – 6 p.m. 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 80 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique items, live music, and food. 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 SATURDAY MORNING LIVE!
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CARE NET REINDEER RUN 5K Owensboro Parent was just informed that Santa will be “training” for his big night with a special appearance at the Reindeer Run 5K through downtown Owensboro on Saturday, December 5th. The Reindeer Run 5K is a family-friendly event for men, women and children of our community. The run/walk will start at 9am from McConnell Plaza behind the Hampton Inn Waterfront. Proceeds will benefit Care Net of Owensboro. “We were looking for another fundraiser that would be a fun, family event,” says Director of Development Sherrianne Leach. When organizers looked at the 5K calendar, they noticed there weren’t any races in December. “We decided to go for it, and the Reindeer Run 5K was born,” Leach said. Owensboro Area Running and Walking Club will be timing the event. Cash prizes will be awarded for top male & female in the following categories: 10 & under, 11-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 & above. There will also be raffle drawings for participants, including Mini Ipads, gift cards, kids’ prizes, and much more! Christmas attire, ugly sweaters and Santa hats are greatly encouraged! Prizes will be awarded to the adult and child with the most creative outfit. When the run/walk is over, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate brewed by Overflow Cafe and roast marshmallows around the fire pits! The Women’s Pavilion PSC is the title sponsor. American Patriot Getaways, Dixie Reserve, Independence Bank, Legends, Overflow Café, RL Wilson Masonry Inc, Settle Group of Hilliard Lyons, Snap On –Langton Tools Dist, Katie V. Gunterman Insurance and Fairway Realty are also sponsors. Santa will be available for pictures following the race. Registration Details:
T-shirts are guaranteed with $20.00 pre-registration until November 13th. All registrations after November 13th will be $25 and are not guaranteed a t-shirt. Family discounts available (must include one adult in family pre-registration package) Register online http://www.doactivities. com/reindeerrun/ Online registration cut off is 12/3. Day of registration will be held between 8-9am in the Hampton Inn lobby.
THE NUTCRACKER PRESENTED BY OWENSBORO DANCE THEATRE Pyoter Illich Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is brought to life with elaborate sets, costumes and one very special toy. Showcasing performances by six seasoned professional dancers from Atlanta, Chicago and Denver, audiences will be thrilled by their expertise, grace and athleticism. Join 37 ODT members plus over 120 community members for this extravaganza. You don’t want to miss ODT’s new Mother Ginger and her children, so get tickets today at RiverPark Center box office 270-687-2787. UTICA BAPTIST CHURCH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR There will be vendors set up, a silent auction, and a chili lunch for a donation. All proceeds from the vendor set up fees, silent auction, and luncheon donations will go to the Lottie Moon International Missions fund; 10 a.m. until 2 p.m at 415 Hwy 1207, Utica; Call 270-733-4517 for more information. FREE DAVIESS COUNTY, KENTUCKY:
CELEBRATING OUR HERITAGE BOOK SIGNING at the Owensboro Antique Mall from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6
OWENSBORO CHRISTMAS SHOW at the Owensboro Convention Center from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. www.OwensboroChristmasShow. com. AN IRISH CHRISTMAS An Irish Christmas brings just about everything to the table – joy, hope, laughter, friendship, celebration, of life through storytelling, music, song, and dance in a night that sparkles with life and a bit of ‘magic!’ Dancers dance through the generations over brooms, on half doors, around butter churns, into the world of mythology and out again. Songs spinning out of the mists and into the familiar Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy and Carol of the Bells, and superb music of the pipes, flutes, fiddles, button accordion and bodhráns are just the beginning of this great Irish night! You can be sure of a rip-roaring celebration of Christmas from the heart of glorious Ireland with a superb team of Irish traditional musicians, dancers from the Kerry Dance Troupe lead by Scott Doherty (Riverdance & Lord of the Dance), the Kerry Records voice squad, and Irish actor Sheelagh Cullen. We will journey through Christmas in Ireland and celebrate the great tradition of butter making, chase the wren on St. Stephen’s day, draw down the half door for spectacular dance, enjoy superb music-making, singing of Christmas carols and great storytelling in an unforgettable Irish night. Irish folk theatre at its best! So come and refresh your spirit, dust off the cares of the world and dance home with a smile in your heart as this joyful night brings you to a wonderful Ireland that echoes www.OwensboroParent.com
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calendar so forcefully in millions of hearts throughout the world. You can be certain of a great Irish welcome! 7 p.m. at RiverPark Center.
younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org.
Joe Christian, Annabelle Watts, Skylar Cain, Leland Isbill, Tom Ewing, Jeff Hardesty, Gaining Ground, Lexie Merritt, Laura Briner, Wayne Morris and The Footstompin Express Cloggers. Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for ages 6 to 12, and ages 5 and under are free. All proceeds go to Volunteer Owensboro. Shows include Country, Bluegrass, Gospel, Clogging, Squaredancing, Skits, Comedy, and crowd Interaction and are filmed for TV broadcast on KET and WNIN. For more information or tickets, go to www.lanhambrothersjamboree.com
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8
FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE!
PRESERVATION STATION See event description on Saturday, December 5.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7
FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and
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, DECEMBER 9
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, DECEMBER 10
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, DECEMBER 11
FREE AWAITED: A CHRISTMAS SHOW Bellvue
Baptist Church at 7 p.m. 4950 Hwy 56. For more information visit AwaitedOboro.com. THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE at The Empress Theatre This classic, set in the land of Narnia, faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, his struggle with the White Witch, and the adventures of four children who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia. The intense action features chases, duels and escapes as the witch is determined to keep Narnia in her possession and to end the reign of Aslan. Friday and Saturday performances at 7 p.m.; Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12
FREE AWAITED: A CHRISTMAS SHOW Bellvue
Baptist Church at 7 p.m. 4950 Hwy 56. For more information visit Awaited Oboro.com LANHAM BROTHERS JAMBOREE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL at Diamond Lake Resort Theater. Show starts at 7pm. Special guest include
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Visit the library every Saturday morning from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
and bring any type of hospitality gift card to the concert for a resident at Wendell Foster’s Campus For Developmental Disabilities. All gift cards will then be distributed to our friends at the Wendell Foster Campus! 3 – 5 p.m. at RiverPark Center. THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE See event description on Friday, December 11.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 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.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL The beloved TV classic Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE See onto the stage this holiday season. Come see event description on Friday, December 11. all of your favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, FREE AWAITED: A CHRISTMAS SHOW Bellvue Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as Baptist Church at 10 a.m., 4 p.m., & 7 p.m. they come to life in Rudolph The Rednosed 4950 Hwy 56. For more information visit Reindeer: The Musical. It’s an adventure that AwaitedOboro.com. teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Don’t miss this HOLIDAY POPS CONCERT! BY OWENSBORO wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Chestnuts roasting misfit in all of us; 7 p.m. at RiverPark Center. on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, Yuletide carols being sung by a choir… U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must and the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for spreading holiday cheer with the annual $5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or Holiday Pops concert! A sleigh full of guest ubouncepartyhouse.com. artists, including American Idol finalist, Jenny Beth Willis, Owensboro Symphony Chorus, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Owensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra, U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT All must combined children’s chorus from City and wear socks; $7 per child, children under 2 County Elementary Schools, Owensboro High are free, unless they are the only child, adults School Red Steel Drum Ensemble, and actors always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or from Theater Workshop of Owensboro will ubouncepartyhouse.com. join the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra for favorite carols, cherished holiday tunes, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 seasonal orchestral pieces and a Christmas FREE STORYTIME Wee Read for ages 2 and carol sing-along. One of our favorite and younger and Circle Time for ages 3-5; 10 – most festive events of the year, make the 10:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, Holiday Pops part of your holiday tradition. 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org. Join symphony patrons in the spirit of giving and bring any type of hospitality gift card to FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 the concert for a resident at Wendell Foster’s THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE See Campus For Developmental Disabilities. All gift event description on Friday, December 11. cards will then be distributed to our friends at the Wendell Foster Campus – assured of SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 making someone’s day a little more magical! FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the library Concert Sponsor: Aleris Guest Artist Sponsor: every Saturday morning from 10:00—12:00 Hafer Associates and Independence Bank for self guided fun and educational activities Join symphony patrons in the spirit of giving with a focus on literacy and school readiness;
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Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org BREAKFAST WITH SANTA at Another Broken Egg Cafe in Holiday Inn. Seatings 8 - 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Reservations required (270) 691-8960. THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE See event description on Friday, December 11.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20
THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE See event description on Friday, December 11.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 21
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, DECEMBER 22
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, DECEMBER 23
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, DECEMBER 24
Christmas Eve FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25
Christmas SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26
UK VS. UL GAME WATCH Join the Owensboro Convention Center to watch the big game! Admission is free and no reservations are needed. FREE SATURDAY MORNING LIVE! Visit the library every Saturday morning
from 10:00—12:00 for self guided fun and educational activities with a focus on literacy and school readiness; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
MONDAY, DECEMBER 28
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, DECEMBER 29
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, DECEMBER 30
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, DECEMBER 31
New Year’s Eve FRIDAY, JANUARY 1
New Year’s Day SATURDAY, JANUARY 2
ARCTIC ADVENTURE Eliminate cabin fever this winter by getting the kids out of the house for some fun at the Arctic Adventure presented by One Health Pediatrics! Get ready to snowboard, slide, jump, sled, climb, explore, navigate, and bobsled in our interactive (ice-free) obstacles and attractions. $15 tickets for ages 3-17, *adults and children 2 and under are free! Use discount code “Parent” to save $3! Tickets to the Arctic Adventure make excellent and affordable Christmas presents and stocking stuffers! See our ad on page: 58 www.OwensboroParent.com
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