Henderson Family - June / July 2020 by Tanner Publishing

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

2 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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. June // July 2020

Contents

June // July 2020

Serving Students One Meal at a Time In light of postponements, cancellations, and uncertainties about educational events and services in Henderson County; one mission would not be stopped by the COVID-19 pandemic. That was to feed Henderson County students.

Downtown Henderson Partnership Supporting local businesses during COVID-19 crisis.

Life in Our Temporary Norm Three Individuals. Three Different Experiences.

24 The Light is Still On The musical was canceled, but HCHS students will be ready when they can return to the stage.

I N EVERY ISSU E 6 From the Editor 7 The Buzz 8 Parent Profile

M AKIN G IT

9 Dino-Mite Lunch Box Win some cool parent points by being creative with your kids’ lunchbox. 10 Rainbow Popsicles If you’re looking for an easy summer recipe, these are filled with fun, bright colors and have a birthday cake flavor that your kids are sure to love!

O N TH E COVE R

DISCOVER

27 Staying Home? 14 screen-free ideas for kids to do at home. 28 The Book Nook There is nothing better than reading with your child—here is a must-read list for the season.

FR OM OU R R EADER S

32 Healthy at Home Photos submitted to our Facebook page

34 Say What? Our readers asked their kids: “ If screen time was not allowed and you HAD to spend the day outside, what would you do all day?”

For this issue’s cover photo, Henderson Family staff members taped off a driveway for a stained glass chalk look that has been trending on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic. We even got some help from the publisher’s kids to finish filling it in!

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

EDITORIAL

from the editor

EDITOR

Lyndi Mauk

Warm weather is finally here, and since we have been practicing social distancing for quite some time now, there is nothing better than being able to get outside in the fresh air! My daughter loves being outside, so we have been soaking it up. She has played on her swing set, ridden her bike, played chalk, soccer, golf and the list could go on. I love watching her imagination bloom.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jamie Alexander A.J. Casey Amanda Waggener COPY EDITOR

Ashley Gleason Let me just say how much I appreciate our amazing teachers. This was my daughter’s first year of preschool, and although she didn’t get to finish her school year, we still took a “Last Day of School” photo at home. She missed her teachers, her friends and learning. I tried to continue working on what they were learning before the schools closed, but I didn’t realize how hard it would be teaching preschool. I had to mix lessons up to keep her engaged, since she didn’t have the interaction of her classmates. This has all been an adjustment as our temporary norm, but we are all in this together. In this issue, we have featured stories on the Downtown Henderson Partnership’s efforts to help our community come together by supporting local businesses and staying engaged, and how three individuals have balanced homeschool and work. There are also stories on how the Henderson County Schools immediately stepped up to provide meals for our amazing students during this unexpected pandemic, and the cancellation of The Addams Family musical. We want to wish all the fathers in our community a Happy Father’s Day, and we want to thank our advertisers for your continued support. You are the reason we are a FREE magazine. Let’s enjoy this time together at home with our families as we continue social distancing, praying for our loved ones, our community, our country and everyone around the world.

Do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to lyndi@tannerpublishing.com.

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

Brock Quinton Robert Williams Henderson Family is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise. For more information about advertising call 888-304-5416 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Andrea Roberson Monica Smith

Lyndi Mauk Editor, Henderson Family Magazine

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jamie Alexander

Lyndi's Top Picks Family Time

Through the current situation we are facing, my family has, and always will be, my rock. They are always my favorite, but especially during a time such as this. We are slowing down, and we have been able to spend a lot more quality time together, whether it’s at the dinner table, watching a family movie, working puzzles or playing board games.

CONTRIBUTING

SOCIAL DISTANCING EDITION: Cooking

Since we can’t go out to dinner right now, it has forced this wife/mommy to spread my wings in the kitchen when it comes to cooking. I have a stack of recipe books, but I never venture out to try a variety of new things. If you are like me, I have tons of recipes saved on Pinterest, but I haven’t tried very many. Therefore, I have put in the effort to try new recipes during this pandemic. It gives my family a variety, and a chance to try something different.

PHOTOGRAPHER

Darrin Phegley

DISTRIBUTION Being Outside

Everyone who knows me knows I am not an outside person when it comes to summer, unless it involves water. If I am at the lake or at the pool, then I will go outside every day. Besides that, I do not like being out in the hot weather for long periods of time. This year is much different though. Constantly having to be inside the house makes you excited to go outside. Maybe we will run around during a summer shower in the rain, jumping puddles and laughing. We will go for walks, play tag in the yard, go on outside scavenger hunts and so much more!

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 888-304-5416.

ONLINE hendersonfamilymagazine.com facebook.com/hendersonfamilymagazine

TANNER PUBLISHING CO. PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 888-304-5416

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. June // July 2020

THE BUZZ

VIRTUAL SPIRIT WEEK

Student Spotlight:

School may have been out, but students continued to show their school spirit as many followed a virtual school spirit week at home during the week of March 23. Some spirit days varied, depending on the school, but many students took part and posted their photos online each day. The schools and teachers enjoyed seeing their students having fun and being creative. For example, Cairo Elementary followed a COVID-19 style homeschooling spirit week. Monday was Superhero day in honor of our front line workers (hospitals, grocery store workers, essential workers). Tuesday was Crazy Hair/School Color day in honor of our hair stylist and the schools we missed. Wednesday was Dress like an old person day in honor of the older generation who are at high risk. Thursday was Jersey day in honor of our favorite sports our students were unable to play, and Friday was Pajama day because pjs were the highlight of homeschooling. This was a way to keep Henderson students engaged and excited about their days spent participating in school at home.

TEACHERS ACROSS THE COUNTY PARTICIPATE IN PARADES Schools may have been closed but that didn’t stop teachers from seeing their students. Several schools throughout the community took part in parades to drive by and see their students. Kids were able to wave and cheer as the vehicles drove by. It was a way for students to stay connected to their amazing leaders, to bring a smile to their faces and for teachers to show their students how much they missed and care for each of them.

Daniel Clutts and his dad love making silly videos. Daniel just completed second grade at East Heights Elementary. His twin sisters, Nora and Emily (also in the video), will start kindergarten there this fall. After being stuck at home several days, they thought of making a news video. The “News At Home” video featured reports of sports, weather, and spring happenings. They made a second episode of “News At Home” that featured other similar reports and even highlighted the EHS teacher parade through their neighborhood. Their family had so much fun making these videos, and the kids are often throwing out new ideas for their next episode! You can find their first episode of “News At Home” on the Henderson County Schools Facebook page, or check both episodes out on Youtube.

CONSIGNMENT OWNER GIVES BACK Wanda Sauer is the owner of Just Plus/Just Chic Women’s Consignment and Little Britches Consignment and Embroidery. When she had to temporarily close her store, she didn’t think twice about helping our community when it came to the shortage of masks. She was out of work, and she knew we would be needing them. Wanda reached out to the Infection Control Nurse at the hospital and was then sent the CDC webpage for mask guidelines. She said, “At this time, no one was making them yet. I purchased the pattern and off I went. I made a few and posted them on Facebook, and people started messaging me.” She is now making hundreds of masks a night. She has made masks for doctors, postal service workers, UPS workers and factories. She has also made them not only for Hendersonians, but she has shipped to surrounding areas such as Madisonville all the way to Louisville, Lexington, Indianapolis, Ohio and Georgia. Wanda said, “I believe businesses like mine (consignments), as well as, small businesses will be more appreciated in their community. Through this whole thing, people have noticed we support each other and the people in the community and have been there in a way that they never knew. Downtown businesses are the heart of a town, and as we have all come together as one, I believe it will stay that way.”

Holy Name School 6th grader Elizabeth (Lizzy) Cleavenger and her family responded to the recent pandemic situation in a positive way, as they jumped into action making masks to combat the spread of the coronavirus and assist the community. Lizzy assisted in packaging kits for Henderson Moms Making Masks. This group, which developed in response to the need for masks, has now sewn over 2,000 masks and distributed over 2,000 mask making kits to the Henderson community. Lizzy and her family are a prime example of people who always proactively jump in to help in a positive way. Lizzy is also known at HNS for her academic ability, creative and artistic style, basketball, track, cross country, and singing in the group “A New Song.”

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

PARENT PROFILE

Lauren Mackey TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY? KIDS,

WHAT HOBBIES DOES YOUR FAMILY ENJOY TAKING PART IN? (BOTH BEFORE THE

PETS, ETC. I have been married to Dan for 15 years! We have two girls. Addison is 10 and Avery is 8. We also have a labradoodle named Mia.

PANDEMIC AND NOW DURING SOCIAL DISTANCING). We were definitely very busy before social distancing went into effect! Between the two girls,

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THAT POSITION? I am a CPA. I currently work as a Senior Accountant at Gibbs Die Casting. I have been in this position a little over four years.

we were always at somebody’s practice or game. We enjoy watching the kids do their activities. Now we have being doing lots and lots of walking! Mia is so tired at the end of the day she can’t hold her head up. We have been mostly walking in our neighborhood, but we sometimes hike at Audubon Park, ride bikes at Sandy Watkins

HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE BETWEEN WORK, HOME AND RAISING TWO KIDS? Is there such a thing? Dan and I very much work as a team when it comes to parenting duties. We both work full time, so we try to split parenting tasks. There are days we are picking up each kid from a

Park, or walk on the Riverwalk downtown. HOMESCHOOLING. HAS THIS BEEN CHALLENGING? Very much so! Work for me has been really busy, so the girls tried to work through a lot of it while I worked, and then either Dan or I would help after work. One of the

different activity that ends at the same time.

girls has done really well staying on task, but the

We also make time for our own hobbies and

other one not so much! There has been quite a bit

interests so we stay sane! I like to run and

of whining and complaining (and googling for the

workout. I try to schedule my workouts either on my lunch hour or on a night the kids have the same practice, and Dan can take them.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FORWARD TO MOST ONCE WE ARE ABLE TO LIVE LIFE OUTSIDE OF OUR HOMES AGAIN?

WHAT HAVE YOU ENJOYED MOST ABOUT HAVING TO WORK FROM HOME? THE LEAST? The best thing about working from home has definitely been not having to get ready to go anywhere or put on nice clothes! It’s a little more relaxing way to start the day without having to rush to get everyone ready and out the door. The hardest part of working from home has been having the kids home with me. They aren’t used to having this much solo together time, so there has been lots of fighting and just generally being loud.

8 HENDERSON FAMILY

parents).

. June // July 2020

Traveling! Our family loves to travel and explore new places. We have a vacation to the beach booked in June, and we are really hoping we get to go. IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO SOMEONE WANTING TO ENTER THE CAREER FIELD YOU ARE IN, WHAT WOULD IT BE? I really enjoy my job and the people I work with, but the schedule is not very flexible. I am not able to take my kids on spring break or fall break because of important work deadlines at the beginning of the month. Not all positions have this issue, so if that is important to you it’s something to be sure to check on.

Making it

CRAFTS, RECIPES, AND ACTIVITIES FAMILIES CAN ENJOY TOGETHER

Dinomite

LUNCH BOX You don't need to be a Pinterest queen to make some extra-fun lunches for birthdays, special occasions, or holidays! It's as easy as using cookie cutters or “sandwich cutter kits” found in grocery stores. Watch for more lunchbox themes and inspiration in

Photo by Jamie Alexander

upcoming issues!

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

MAKING IT

If you’re looking for an easy summer recipe, these popsicles are filled with fun, bright colors and have a birthday cake flavor that your kids are sure to love! WHAT YOU'LL NEED: ›› ›› ›› ››

Vanilla pudding Food coloring (rainbow colors) Popsicle molds or small paper cups Popsicle Sticks

INSTRUCTIONS: ›› You can either make instant pudding by following instructions on the box, or get your vanilla pudding straight from a pre-made snack pack. ›› Divide the pudding into seven equal bowls (or however many colors of the rainbow you’re including - I used six). ›› Mix each bowl with the food coloring, then layer the colored pudding in your molds (layering should be easy due to the thickness of the pudding). Photos and recipe by Jamie Alexander

Rainbow

Popsicles 10 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

›› If using paper cups, aluminum foil can be used to keep popsicle sticks in place, by covering the lid of the cup then piercing the sticks through the center of the foil. ›› Freeze your popsicles for six hours (or until frozen). HF

JAMIE ALEXANDER is nationally published culinary and commercial photographer working as a full-time staff photographer for Tanner Publishing. She has a knack for making tasty food and pretty art. See more of her portfolio at jaastudios.com.

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

PAID ADVERTORIAL ELDER ADVANTAGE

How Can Elder Advantage Help Your Family? A S S E T P R E S E R VAT I O N

advocate who stands up for your rights.

You spend an entire lifetime accruing assets and building legacies. Working in

(including attorneys) to help create a strategy that works for you. Medicaid,

VETERANS BENEFITS – WE CAN HELP!

Veterans Affairs, Tax Implications – it can

cooperation with attorneys* and other professionals, we will work to devise a

Many veterans and their spouses are

plan to keep those assets safe, so that

We want to help ease your mind, provide

unaware of the benefits they could be

they don’t get unnecessarily trapped

receiving. We help veterans to maximize

guidance and help alleviate some of the

by nursing home expenses and income

their VA pension benefits by working

restraints.

within the system to get veterans the help they deserve.

MEDICAID REPRESENTATION

Medicaid policies are ever-changing; many

applicants

can

fall

prey

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT EA?

all become an overload of information.

stress. If you have a loved one in a nursing facility or may be going into one soon, let our team help you get the benefits you deserve. For a FREE consultation please call (270) 684-6757.

misinformation about what they can

We take the time in this trying season

(or should) do to avoid or limit nursing

of life to patiently and clearly explain

home Medicaid “spend down”. Our team

(and handle) the process of obtaining

of professionals will work to maximize

needed benefits. We will coordinate our

protected. Because to us, it’s always

benefit procurement and we will be an

efforts with other trusted professionals

personal.

believe

legacies

deserve

*Elder Advantage, LLC is not a law firm. We work with appropriately licensed attorneys (and other professionals) for a wholistic approach to overall benefit planning.

12 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

Community

THE PEOPLE AND P L A C E S T H AT M A K E H E N D E R S O N G R E AT

Serving Students

One Meal at a Time

n light of postponements, cancellations, and

uncertainties

about

educational

events and services in Henderson County; one mission would not be stopped by the COVID-19 pandemic.

That was to feed

Henderson County students. Food insecurity is one of the leading causes of poor performance for students. A 2011 study from Larry Howard published in the “Economics of Education Review” By A.J. Casey // Photos by Jamie Alexander

found, “Significant negative developmental effects for children with food insecurity at home; and that children experiencing an early transition from food insecurity in 1st grade to food security in 3rd grade have even larger impairments that persist through

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

COMMUNITY

5th grade.” In a typical school year (and this year is proving to be anything but typical), students’ food needs are met via breakfast, lunch, and sometimes after school snack programs provided by HCS Child Nutrition. Around 8,000 meals per day are served every day in Henderson County Schools.

But what happens if school is not in

session? Where do students go to meet this basic need?

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of ‘disaster,’ I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers — so many caring people in this world.” — FRED ROGERS, AKA MISTER ROGERS

Continuing to Serve Led

Charlotte

Baumgartner,

masks. The Child Nutrition staff has

Baumgartner,

been phenomenal.”

Nutrition.

There

For the month of March, 45,000 meals

Director

have

been

Child

many

heroes

have been served to Henderson County

to celebrate in light of this global

students.

Twenty-five Child Nutrition

pandemic. Certainly, we should applaud

staff members have been committed

the many frontline health care workers

to the program, teachers and support

placing themselves at risk of contracting

staff have helped to prep food, and bus

the virus.

the

drivers have been delivering meals to

Henderson

System

sites in the community. Additionally, the

Nutrition staff and the Transportation

sought to continue to provide meals for

community has been involved. The City

Department who have worked diligently

students. A global pandemic was not

of Henderson donated Easter Eggs and

to provide food to students in need.

going to stand in the way of students

treats that were not used in the hunt this

receiving meals. The program is similar

year, International Paper has donated

The Meal Program

to the summer feeding program, which

boxes, and local churches and businesses

has been running for several years

have been donating food items to the

pick up schedule is Tuesday and Friday

in Henderson except for the logistics

FRYSC backpack program, which has

only from 10:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

are slightly different. “Every day is

continued throughout this time.

The locations for pick up include: A.B.

different. We have to calculate the prep

Chandler

time for the food and follow all safety

but rewarding. When we get to see the

Gate Elementary School, East Heights

precautions. We are taking temperatures

kids’ faces light up when they receive

Elementary School, Jefferson Elementary

every day, following the CDC guidelines

their meals it is worth all the sweat

School, and South Heights Elementary

for handwashing, wearing gloves and

and exhaustion we feel,” said Charlotte

School.

Director Henderson

Child County

14 HENDERSON FAMILY

Nutrition, School

. June // July 2020

“This program has been challenging

I propose we applaud the County

Schools

Child

As of April 20th, the updated meal

Elementary

School,

Bend

Meals are free for anyone 18

years of age or younger in Henderson.

School, Niagara Store, Pebble Creek

Please stay in your vehicle, in the car

Apartments, Presidential Mobile Home

line, and an attendant will deliver your

Park, Reed Area, Robards Fire Dept.,

meals to you.

Saddle Brook Apartments, Seven Oaks

the

following

locations

Apartments, Shady Tree Mobile Home

on Tuesdays and Fridays, a bus

Park, Smith Mills Fire Department,

will continue to deliver meals to community sites.

You must meet

the bus to receive the meals. Buses will stay at these sites for 10-15 minutes.

Those locations include:

Arbor Drive, Ashford Mobile Home Park, Beals Church, Bellfield Church, Bluff City & (Tillotson Rd), Cairo

Spottsville

School,

Sunset

Mobile

Home Park, True Vine Inn, Windy Way Apartments, Wolf Hills, Woodview Apartments, Zion Annex in Country View Subdivision, and Zion Baptist Church. For

information,

School, Cambridge Point Apartments,

you know of an area in Henderson

Carriage

Park,

that needs to be reached with the

Chapelwood, Cottages of Henderson,

delivery site program, please contact

Fair Acres, Frontier, Geneva Store,

Henderson County Board of Education

Green

at 270-831-5000.

Mobile

Leaf

Home

Apartments,

Harding

Mobile Home Park, Hebbardsville Fire Department, Henderson Propane and Gas, Henderson Station Apartments, Holiday House Motel, Irongate Mobile Home Park, Lovers Lane Area, Niagara

A.J. CASEY is the proud owner and operator of his video production company, AJKC. AJ teaches Theatre at Henderson County High School.Â He is married to his lovely and talented wife, Megan Mortis.Â

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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. June // July 2020

PAID ADVERTORIAL HENDERSON DERMATOLOGY

The Facts about Sunscreen: Is Sunscreen Safe?

e all use it, but does it work to

sunglasses, seek

safeguard us from the harmful

shade between 10

effects of the sun’s rays? In short:

a.m. and 2 p.m.,

Yes! Sunscreen helps protect the

and avoid tanning

skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV)

beds.

radiation that can cause skin cancer

Sunscreen

and premature aging. Annually,

should be

over 2 million people in the US are

applied 15-30

diagnosed with a total of 3.5 million

minutes before

skin cancers. Many skin cancers can

going outdoors,

be prevented by using protective

and reapplied

clothing & sunscreen products which

approximately

long-term damage to the skin from

have been proven safe to use.

every two hours, especially after

the sun’s rays. The U.S. Food and

swimming or sweating heavily. Even

Drug Administration (FDA) regulates

Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or

on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s

sunscreens and all the ingredients

higher protects the skin against

damaging UV rays can penetrate

found in them. The ingredient

the damaging UV effects of the sun.

your skin. Owensboro Dermatology

Oxybenzone protects skin from UVA

Dermatologists recommend using a

recommends using spray-on

& UVB rays, and was approved by

sunscreen that is water resistant and

sunscreen, 30 SPF or higher, prior

the FDA in 1978. FDA declares it safe

offers broad-spectrum protection

to going out in the sun. If you use a

for people 6 months of age or older.

(protects against UVA and UVB rays).

sunscreen lotion instead, we advise

Another ingredient in sunscreen is

UVA rays are constantly present, no

you to follow the guidelines of “one

Retinyl palmitate, which protects our

matter the season or the weather.

ounce, enough to fill a shot glass” in

skin from premature aging. Titanium

These rays penetrate deep into

determining how much sunscreen to

dioxide and zinc oxide are common

the skin, causing cell damage and

use. Dermatologists have considered

ingredients that are safe, too.

premature aging. UVB rays can

this amount to be enough to cover

cause sunburn, and can reflect off

the exposed areas of the body, but the

according to directions, it is safe, and

water, sand or snow. Both UVA &

amount of sunscreen used depends on

protects the skin from the damaging

UVB rays can damage the skin, which

body size, as well.

effects of the sun. Always remember

could lead to skin cancer. In addition

Scientific studies show that

to do regular body checks at home

to using sunscreen, wear protective

using sunscreen is not only safe, but

and see your skin care doctor every

clothing, broad-brimmed hats,

can also decrease short-term and

year for a professional skin exam.

Using sunscreen with a Sun

When sunscreen is used

Facts & Figures from: American Academy of Dermatology and The Skin Cancer Foundation.

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

COMMUNITY

Downtown Henderson Partnership Supporting local businesses during COVID-19 crisis By Amanda Waggener

ADAPTING TO CHANGE When

Lindsay

COVID-19 crisis is to make sure the

Locasto

began

community is aware of restaurants

working for Downtown Henderson

offering to-go or businesses that have

Partnership nearly three years ago,

websites they need people to visit

she could have never imagined a

and support by continuing to shop

worldwide pandemic would nearly

local. A creative way DHP has been of

shut down the community she serves.

service to Henderson is by offering a

The

Henderson

virtual tip jar. “We started the tip jar

Partnership (DHP) mission is to

Downtown

so that industry workers can put their

promote, improve and preserve the

name on a list and their clients and

unique

economic

patrons can go on Venmo or PayPal

Henderson.

to leave them a virtual tip,” Locasto

implored as she highlighted the

Nevertheless, with this unprecedented

explains. The success of the virtual

importance

time comes unprecedented changes

tip jar was evident by the more than

businesses. “When this is all over, we

regarding

character

vitality of

and

downtown

the

supporting

local

and

2,000 hits to its page in its first 48

want to go back to those businesses.

promoting of local events. A large

hours. Ms. Locasto has worked in the

We want them to still be there and

majority of the spring and summer

service industry in the past, which has

events

fueled her desire to see this project be

have

scheduling

been

postponed

to be thriving.” It is critical that our community continue to rally for one

canceled. “We’re taking it month by

successful.

month. Listening to our governor

every day to his suggestions,” Locasto

Facebook page that DHP started since

again is safe.

explained. She would love to see

the pandemic began. They are posting

events happen beginning in June, but

menus of local restaurants, along

with each other and celebrate the

concedes she understands that “we

with online ordering information.

unity of our community face to face,”

don’t want to relapse if we have all

There you will also find information

she reassured. “I’ve lived in Henderson

these events and then get back into the

shared by the Henderson County

now for eight years. I grew up in

same place for three more months.”

Schools, as well as, by various non-

However, she keeps high hopes that

profits. In addition to the Facebook

fall events will be on schedule.

page, Hendersonians can also visit

Love What’s Local 42420 is a new

downtownhenderson.org

get

KEEPING WITH THE MISSION

more information. The website is

“We

updated daily to keep current with the

are

membership-based

organization so it’s something we

changing environment.

feel is very important that we offer

another

until

gathering

together

“Soon people will want to go out

Newburgh and lived in Evansville. I am so proud to call Henderson my home now. Essentially with everything that is going on, our community has rallied together.”

AMANDA WAGGENER is a blogger for the

our members any kind of support we

GETTING BACK TO BUSINESS

Huffington Post, author of No Grit No Pearl blog

can right now,” the Executive Director

husband are the parents of two teenagers who they

cheerfully states. Her focus during the

through this crisis right now,” she

18 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

“We are trying to float them

site and is a native of Henderson. She and her are raising with as much zeal as they can muster.

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

COMMUNITY

Life in Our Temporary Norm THREE INDIVIDUALS. THREE DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES. By Lyndi Mauk // Photos by Jamie Alexander

t’s 2020! A new year and new beginnings, but none of us would have imagined at midnight on January 1, 2020, our year would turn into what we have currently been facing. In March, our lives slowly began to experience hardships we never saw coming. We weren’t prepared for a sudden halt. Schools and businesses closing, employees suddenly encouraged to work from home, grocery stores struggling to be fully stocked, and our healthcare workers going to a job every day with more uncertainty than they quite possibly have ever known. This pandemic will be something our children, and those of the future, will learn about for years to come. We spoke with three individuals who have all had different experiences over the last few months. From a stayat-home mom/pastor’s wife to a high school teacher to an essential worker, each have had to adjust differently.

The Stay-at-Home Mom/Pastor’s Wife Amy Hartley is a follower of God, a stay-at-home mom and a pastor’s wife, serving at Zion Baptist Church. She is a partner with the company Juice Plus, and a mother of four to Will (11), Addie (8), Nate (6), and Maggie (4). When it was announced schools would be closing, she decided to make a Facebook group called “The Best Two Weeks Ever.” Amy had been listening to a lot of books and sermons lately on how perspective and gratitude changes everything, and this inspired her 20 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

to make the Facebook group. She explained, “This side of heaven, we will continually face different things as we move through life, but how we react to them is what defines our life. The crisis doesn’t. Our reaction does.” Amy felt like God gave her the idea because she felt so many people would want and need community, ideas, and an outlet to turn to. Amy used to homeschool, so she has enjoyed having everyone together at home again. “We have tried to keep a schedule. We get up, eat, get ready, tidy our room, try to have a God focus and then hit the work. We try hard to plow through it, with a snack time, so that we can be free for the rest of the day. If there is any hint at good weather, we spend the rest of the day outside. That has done a lot to provide energy release for the kids, vitamin D and good spirit,” she said. Amy and her husband, Neal, have continued doing what they can with their church. On Sunday mornings, Neal leads worship for their church virtually, and they have both been able to bring the youth group together, too. Neal has done live teaching, Zoom hang outs and stayed in touch via text. They plan to have a big celebration when everyone can get back together. “We really hurt for the senior class. They are missing so much that they’ve worked so hard towards. We are making a video with their sweet pictures growing up and getting short selfie videos of them saying their post-graduation plans to compile for what would have been Graduate Sunday.” Outside of homeschooling, their

family has taken rides down by the river, participated in the online Disney rides, made fun meals together, and have enjoyed their time outside as much as possible. She said they recently started a new show called, “The Chosen” and have also rented movies and popped popcorn. They have flown kites, two of their kids have learned to ride their bicycles without training wheels, and they have put their artistic skills to work creating tons of art both inside and out. This encouraging wife and mother said, “I’m a worrier by nature, and I have learned to rest in the promises of Jesus in a new way. It has forced me to think eternally. We don’t know what the future holds, but Jesus is good, and He is directing us continually toward Him and His return. I think this has forced us to release what little control we think we had, and rest in Him.”

The Teacher Katie Giles is an art teacher at HCHS and the coordinator for the School of Fine Arts (SoFA) program. She feels as though she has put more work in over these last several weeks than she has during her entire 10-year teaching career in education. “I am

constantly looking up ways to continue teaching rigorous curriculum for my students virtually, and also looking for ways to enhance that curriculum for students with no internet access. This has been a struggle, and it is hard to give continuous feedback on artworks when I don’t see the kids each day,” Katie explained. One day she had to contact a total of 87 students/parents who had

not turned in work. “Each day I post new content on Google Classroom. I record a video using Screencastify (a program that records sound and my screen) and teach as I normally would. Then my students are given an assignment and are to complete it using additional resources that are provided.” Katie is also a mother to a 4-yearold little girl named Ava. She has tried to stay on a similar schedule each day while she is both working from home and homeschooling her daughter. She usually works in the mornings, and is available to her students from 9-2, and then works with her daughter in the

afternoons. On the days she has not been as busy, she will work on preschool content with Ava and then they will do something fun, such as painting or a science experiment. Although Katie is a teacher herself, she has found homeschooling to be more challenging because Ava needs guidance and assistance with preschool. This makes it much more challenging on the days she has tried to multitask. The easiest part has been not having a full schedule with everything being cancelled such as dance, play dates, etc. One of the hardest parts is breaking routine. She realized after the first week that she and her daughter both need routine. This quarantine hasn’t been all work and homeschooling for the Giles family though. Katie said, “We have tried to keep busy because Ava can only play babies for so long. We’ve played board games, video games, drove around and listened to music, gotten fast food and sat at the park in the car, watched movies, slept in, done scavenger hunts, art and science projects, and the list goes on. I’m constantly searching Pinterest to find something new and interesting to do, so we don’t get bored.” As far as the education system, Katie laughed saying, “We’re all going to be technology experts!” She thinks this pandemic is going to provide positive changes, especially in art, to become more creative with technology. She believes art teachers will be able to use technology in more ways and not just from a pencil and paper perspective. This bubbly, kind-hearted art teacher and mother said, “I have learned how to handle teaching without seeing my students. I have learned how to juggle the work-home life. Most of all, I have learned to appreciate the little things because this new normal life is hard.”

The Essential Worker Ashley Woods is a Physical Therapist Assistant at Redbanks and has been working in the long-term care setting

for six years. Ashley and her husband, Josh, will be married for eight years in August. They have two daughters, Kylie (9) and Reagan (4) and a dog named Shooter. “It’s definitely a strange time to be working,” Ashley stated. “I’m so thankful to still have a job to go to, but at the same time, it’s a little nerve racking to be right in the middle of it.” She said many individuals probably wonder why therapy is considered essential at this time. “Those with a new stroke, fracture, or illness wanting to recover and get home therapy is very essential, and as part of the job, you’re required to be in very close contact with your patients.” Ashley is grateful her job hasn’t changed during this time, but they are taking more precautions. “Masks are worn during all patient care, even more disinfecting than usual and social distancing between patients. New patients are required to stay on a single unit for a 14-day time frame,” she explained. One way the therapy world has been affected has been due to elective surgeries being postponed, such as knee and hip replacements. One aspect of Ashley’s job she always looks forward to is having several patients in the gym at the same time and watching them all interact with one another. It is one of her favorite parts of her job, and unfortunately, they simply cannot allow that interaction at this time. It is also disheartening to see patients missing their loved ones during this time, since visitors are not allowed in the building. “It’s important now more than ever to be there for these patients and keep their spirits up. The families worry about their loved ones and vice versa, and everyone is doing their best to make the situation as good as it can be,” Ashley said. “I have been very blessed during this time with being able to manage homeschooling because on days my husband and I both work, we have had my mother-in-law available to watch the

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

kids and help with school. She’s out of work at this time with daycares being closed and has been wonderful helping us.” Ashley and Josh’s oldest daughter is the only child in school at the time, and being such a great student, she has been able to adapt and keep up with her assignments easily. When Ashley has been off work, their family has taken advantage of every nice day, so their girls have spent a lot of time outside. They have done puzzles, played board games and had their own “spa day.” Their daughters have also been busy making crafts, thanks to Ashley’s mother-in-law. Ashley is very thankful for how well her children have adapted to our current situation. “The hardest part for them has just been missing their teachers and friends, so the hardest part for me has been seeing them disappointed with the cancellation of events and activities they enjoy,” she said.

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are going to continue to look a little different with people limiting contact between each other,” she said. Ashley’s job has no choice but to have personal contact with patients, but she doesn’t know how other health care professions will operate moving forward.

Despite the situation, this hard-

working mother said, “I’ve enjoyed the slower pace of life and spending more time as a family with not having to run all over the place. I hope some of that sticks. While I can’t wait to get back to some of our normal activities, I also hope that we will remember this time and not take our time with each other for granted.”

From having to go to work in the

middle of this pandemic, Ashley truly doesn’t know what the future will look like. “I think at least for a while, things

LYNDI MAUK, editor of Henderson Family Magazine, was born and raised in the Bluegrass State. She is grateful to be going through life alongside her husband and best friend, Brandon, and being a mother to their two children.

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

COMMUNITY

The Light is

STILL ON By A.J. Casey Photo by Darrin Phegley

THE MUSICAL MAY HAVE BEEN CANCELED, BUT HCHS STUDENTS WILL BE READY WHEN THEY CAN RETURN TO THE STAGE. 24 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

seems almost cliche to bemoan

rehearsed with each other to put on a show

the many cancellations caused

postponed with only one week to go until

by the COVID-19 pandemic.

dress rehearsal.

It’s certainly disheartening to hear of

customary events like spring sports, prom,

lavish performances.

and graduation all affected by the crisis. Yet,

being grand, intricate, and demanding are

there is still another cancellation that has

well-deserved, especially this performance.

affected over 50 students of varying grades

It was double-cast, the show was designed

and disciplines that have been impacted.

to be black and white, and involved multiple

That is the HCHS spring musical.

disciplines and students ranging from

Since December, students across all

freshman to seniors.

artistic disciplines (theatre, music, band, and

art) have dedicated over 165 hours to this

prior to Christmas vacation. It was easy to

year’s production of “The Addams Family.”

see the sheer amount of talent from students

They have routinely rehearsed until 7pm

across all grade-levels. Fondly, I remember

on a nightly basis and participated in one

Mabrey Rice’s audition (a freshman SoFA

all-night lock in. They have rebuilt stage

theatre student) who had little contact with

pieces, practiced on their own, learned the

the musical director prior to the audition,

Argentine Tango, collaborated with peers

came in and gave an excellent audition. As

across myriad disciplines, and diligently

soon as she left, Mrs. Eaves (choir director)

Musicals are usually synonymous with The stereotype of

The audition process spanned a week

turned to me and said, “Wow.”

ability to be more creative and risky

is not film. It needs a live audience.

And she wasn’t an outlier. In terms

with the designs of each scene mixed,

It thrives on the idea that people will

of talented and dedicated students, the

yet being artistically challenged by

watch and react.

production team noticed an abundance

the restrictions of a grayscale palette.

Henderson County High School

of riches. This led to our first major

That element makes the set design

junior and student Director Raegen

decision to double cast certain roles in

just as important for the audience to

Franks recently said, “It’s not the end

the show. Yes, it made rehearsals run

pay attention to as the actors. This

of the world and I would rather be safe

that much longer. Yes, it presented its

importance of the setting made us put

than sorry but still, I was really proud of

own challenges. But, in the end, our goal

more effort and time into the making

what were doing and it’s just like ‘Wow,

was to showcase the extraordinarily

of each design and the painting of each

this sucks.’”

talented students of Henderson County

scene.”

High School.

There’s a saying in theatre, “The

in the cast) adds, “The musical may

Mabrey Rice (freshman, Wednesday

Additionally, the show’s vision was

show must go on.” The directorial team

have drained me, and there were days

to incorporate German Expressionism

of “The Addams Family,” prior to the

that I thought I wasn’t good enough.

inspired by films like, “The Cabinet

official school cancellation, had met

But really, I loved that musical with

of Dr. Caligary,” “Nosferatu,” and “M.”

and counseled with administration,

every part of me. I loved the people,

SoFA Art student TJ Joy, the lead

students, seniors in the production, and

the songs, my role, and it’s going to be

artistic designer says, “I think a lot of

outside sources to ultimately decide to

really hard if we don’t get to perform

creativity and storytelling was used in

postpone the show prior to the official

it. It was my chance as a freshman to

the set design. We were new to the idea

Governor’s response about halting all

prove that I could do it. Wednesday was

of the stylistic art the Addams Family

school activities.

a character that I could relate to, and I

called for and only vaguely familiar

It wasn’t a decision the production

just couldn’t wait for us to perform. If

with the confines of gray scale and key

team took lightly. Ultimately, the

it doesn’t get to happen, there’s always

moments of color pop. That being said,

decision was made to try and ensure an

next year, but it just won’t be the same

it was definitely more fun having the

audience for the production. Theatre

as Addams Family was this year.”

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

Piper Brewer, Wednesday in the other

cast, adds, “The Addams Family is a wonderful show with a great lesson that is taught along the way. There has been a lot of time, effort, and money into making it the best possible production. We all have worked so very hard staying after school and doing a rehearsal for two amazingly talented casts.

As we

neared the end of our time, within a week until opening night, it was all ripped away. Everyone was looking forward to finally doing this show that we have put months into, especially the seniors that have been in this program for years. They have had so many things taken from them left and right, and I hope there is some way we could at least give them this because they deserve it.”

Thespians are superstitious people. You

may be familiar with some: we say “Break a leg” instead of “Good luck.” A bad dress rehearsal means a good show. We don’t say the Shakespearean “M-word” on stage (that’s the ultimate theatrical curse and I even fear typing it…). One you may not know about is that theatres leave one light on. We call it the “ghost light.” One purpose is to make sure the stage doesn’t get haunted. But, we also leave it on as a reminder that the theatre will always be ready when someone needs it. At Henderson County High School the light has not been turned off. It won’t be. Because we will be ready.

A.J. CASEY is the proud owner and operator of (ABOVE) HCHS Students and cast members rehearsing and preparing for the musical, “The Addams Family” during the school year.

26 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

his video production company, AJKC. AJ teaches Theatre at Henderson County High School. He is married to his lovely and talented wife, Megan Mortis.

Discover

by Katie Beth Osborne, 6th grade

STAYING HOME? “Mom! I’m booooooored!” Ever said these words on a day when you’re stuck at home? We’ve all had those days where we’re cooped up inside. Besides heading straight to your phone, iPad, or Playstation, there are all sorts of other things that you can do or learn. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most entertaining! I’ve made a list of my top 14 super easy activities that DO NOT involve a screen (and two bonuses that do).

ADVICE AND TIPS ON H OW TO M AKE PARENTING AN D L IFE EASIER

Build a blanket fort. Do a puzzle. Read a book. (Find some book ideas on the next page!) Take a nap. Do a LEGO set. Play with a pet (or a neighbor’s if you don’t have one). Practice an instrument. Color in a coloring book. Do a craft. Draw a picture. Play a board game. Play with a sibling. Get creative with Mom or Dad in the kitchen. Dance in the rain and jump in puddles. BONUS: Sing karaoke (at the top of your lungs, of course!) BONUS: Watch a movie (OK, this involves a screen, but it’s not like you’re staring at your phone!)

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

DISCOVER • THE BOOK NOOK

The Night Before Summer Vacation

By: Natasha Wing A little girl and her family are getting ready to go on vacation . . . or at least they are trying to. In the effort to pack everything that will be needed, there’s bound to be something overlooked, and what that is provides a funny ending to this meter-perfect “twist” on Clement Moore’s classic.

The Relatives Came

By: Cynthia Rylant In a rainbow-colored station wagon that smelled like a real car, the relatives came. When they arrived, they hugged and hugged from the kitchen to the front room. All summer they tended the garden and ate up all the strawberries and melons. They plucked banjos and strummed guitars. When they finally had to leave, they were

28 HENDERSON FAMILY

. June // July 2020

sad, but not for long. They all knew they would be together next summer.

Mouse’s First Summer

By: Lauren Thompson Mouse and Minka invite you to celebrate summer with a picnic in the park. Roll down the hill on tickly green grass. Fly fluttery kites high in the sky. Enjoy some juicy watermelon! And before it’s time to go home, a summer surprise sparkles in the sky.

Tippy -Tippy -Tippy, Splash!

By: Candace Fleming Surf’s up for a bunch of mischievous bunnies and one frazzled farmer in this beach-time read-aloud adventure. Mr. McGreely has had it with irksome rabbits, so he dons his swimsuit

and a pair of goggles and gets ready for some time away at the beach. Little does he know, the bunnies have stowed away in his backseat! He also hadn’t known that the rascally rabbits have mad surfing and kite flying skills. His annoyance is at sunstroke level…until he sees a sign for a sandcastle-making contest, and realizes that teaming up with the pesky pufftails might just have some benefits.

And Then Comes Summer

By: Tom Brenner A joyful, sundrenched tribute to the anticipation and adventures of the warmest season of the year. When the days stretch out like a slow yawn, and the cheerful faces of Johnny-jump-ups jump up . . . then it’s time to get ready for summer! From flip-flops and hide-andseek to fireworks and ice-cream trucks, from lemonade stands and late bedtimes to swimming in the lake and toasting marshmallows, there’s something for everyone in this bright and buoyant celebration of the sunny season. HF

June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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June // July 2020 . HENDERSON FAMILY

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Henderson Family - June / July 2020

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