June/July 2024 - Henderson Family

LYNDI’S TOP PICKS

HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

It isn’t summer without ice cream! My favorite flavor is cookies n’ cream if I go to an ice cream shop, but my husband’s Mamaw makes the best homemade vanilla ice cream. She will make it at family/holiday gatherings during the summer months at the lake. She also bakes warm brownies to add with itdelicious!

GARDEN VEGGIE TORTILLA CHIPS

My kids have always loved eating veggie straws. We will eat them for a snack at the lake or out by the pool during the summer. But - we recently discovered something new - Garden Veggie “Flavor Burst” Tortilla Chips (nacho cheese flavor). These have become a new favorite, and they are definitely being packed on our adventures this summer for a yummy, summer snack.

SIDEWALK CHALK

I know kids love chalk, and my kiddos are no different. Whether they are drawing, making a path to ride their bikes, scooters or skates, making hopscotch or playing tic-tac-toe, it keeps them entertained while we are enjoying the sunshine and warm weather.

From the Editor

Summer has arrived, and my kids are so excited for summer break! They love being outdoors. They enjoy going to the pool and lake with family, water parks, playing on the swing set, riding bikes, skating, playing with chalk, playing ball and so much more! The summer adventures are endless as we are always finding something fun to do outside in the warm weather!

Father’s Day is approaching, and it’s such a special day to celebrate the fathers in our lives. I love watching my husband be a father to our two children, but I wish all three of them had the opportunity to know my dad. He was called home to Heaven too soon. There are so many moments he has missed over the last 15 years, but I am so grateful for the moments and memories I had with him and know he is watching over us.

This is our Family Favorites issue, and our community is blessed with the best! You - our amazing readers - have voted for your local favorites in a variety of categories, and you can find the winners inside!

You will also find features in this issue on the AKZ teens who took on a community project sewing swing cushions for surrounding neighbors, a local children’s author who found writing as a way to heal and now helping others who are grieving and how Junior Achievement is making a positive impact in the Henderson community.

Don’t miss our Parent Profile on Hargis Collision owner - Adam Hargis. We have also shared a tasty, S’mores Rice Krispie treat recipe and a fun, marbleized paper craft your kiddos are sure to enjoy.

We want to wish all the wonderful fathers in our community a Happy Father’s Day!

LYNDI MAUK Editor, Henderson Family Magazine

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Lyndi Mauk

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christie Netherton

Kaycee Inge

Jamie Plain

Ashley Wedding

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

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Brock Quinton

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 270-297-1600 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Andrea Roberson

Monica Tapp

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jamie Plain

ON THE COVER Donut Stack from our Family Favorites winner, Donut Bank

Photo by Jamie Plain

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Darrin Phegley

DISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dave Mackey

To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 270-297-1600. ONLINE

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HENDERSON TOURIST COMMISSION LAUNCHES LOCAL PODCAST

The Henderson Tourist Commission launched its new podcast known as “This is Henderson.” The first episode launched on March 21, 2024. The goal was to showcase what Henderson offers to both visitors and locals alike.

Released twice a month, each episode features a guest who shares their unique insights into the city’s happenings. For their second episode, they had Doug Laramie on the show to delve into the origins of Henderson Brewing Company.

The show has two segments: “Bluegrass Bites,” where they sample and review local flavors, and “Test the Guest,” where they challenge their guests with Henderson trivia.

The aim of the show is to present the complete Henderson experience by sharing the stories behind the people who contribute to making Henderson a wonderful place to be.

HENDERSON COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS GOLDEN GALA

On Monday, April 15 Henderson County High School held its “Golden Gala.” This event was open to all grandparents and senior citizens in the community and hosted by the Freshmen Student Council and Junior Student Ambassadors. There were around 25 students to assist the guests and approximately 50 senior citizens in attendance. Henderson County High School has been hosting this event for at least 8 years. This senior prom is always held the Monday after HCHS’s prom from 9:30-11am.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

LEVI MCCAMISH NAMED A NATIONAL WINNER OF THE NEW AMERICAN PENMANSHIP 2024 CONTEST

In April, Levi McCamish was named the 1st Grade Boy Recipient of the New American Cursive Penmanship 2024 Contest. Students were given a template and writing sample, and entries were judged based on grade level and “on legibility, neatness, shape, slant, spacing, size, spelling, and accuracy.” Levi is part of Arrow Classical Education, a homeschool hybrid program (Kindergarten4th Grade) offered through Henderson’s First Baptist Church.

Adam Hargis

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I was born and raised in Henderson, Kentucky. I graduated from Henderson County High School and furthered my education at Nashville Technical School for Auto-Body. I started my career in Murfreesboro, TN, but eventually, I knew I wanted to make it back to my hometown. My wife, Dagney Hargis, and I have been married for 14 years and have two children, Ryder (13) and Aniston (10). We have three dogs, three goats, a guinea pig, and a hamster. Our lives revolve around our children and pets.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING?

I am the proud owner of Hargis Collision. We purchased Hargis Collision in 2017 with a small two-bay shop on Atkinson Street. Soon after, we were able to expand to our HWY 41 location. Recently, we have moved to our new facility at 1480 S Green St to better serve our community. It’s still my passion to be really involved with the hands-on work and try to help my team any way I can.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE AUTO BODY INDUSTRY? WHAT ARE SOME CHALLENGES?

OUR CUSTOMERS!! My team and I enjoy what we do. We get to develop long-lasting relationships through delivering safe and quality repairs. Our biggest challenge is continuing to find ways to better ourselves and the processes to better serve our customers and community.

OUTSIDE

OF WORK, WHAT HOBBIES DO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ENJOY?

You will often see us at the golf course with Ryder or the softball field with Aniston. We enjoy the occasional trip and spending time outdoors. Also, UK basketball—all the things associated with being raised in Kentucky.

HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE IN WORK AND FAMILY LIFE?

You have to make it. Oftentimes, being a business owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day. I have to step back and prioritize what is really important. Not only for me but my team as well. We try to hold true to the “Family Business” idea and culture.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN WORKING IN AN AUTOMOTIVE BODY SHOP?

Do your research! Find out if formal training is right for you or an apprenticeship program at a local shop. The industry is always looking for good people with a passion for success.

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Making it

TREATS

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If you love the classic campfire treat of s’mores but want a twist on the traditional recipe, then you’ll love these s’mores Rice Krispie treats! This easy and delicious dessert combines the flavors of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows in a fun and portable Rice Krispie treat form. Perfect for a picnic or a backyard barbecue, these s’mores Rice Krispie treats are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a sweet and gooey treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

INGREDIENTS:

›› 6 Tbsp unsalted butter

›› 16oz bag mini marshmallows

›› 7 cups Rice Krispie cereal

›› 1 tsp vanilla extract

›› 1/2 tsp sea salt

›› 1 cup chopped chocolate

›› 2 cups graham cracker pieces

›› Garnishes: extra mini marshmallows, chocolate, and graham cracker pieces

INSTRUCTIONS:

›› Grease a 9x13 pan and set aside.

›› Brown some butter in a large pot: cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter starts to foam and turns brown.

›› Turn heat to low and immediately add 16 oz. bag of marshmallows. Stir until all of the marshmallows are completely melted.

›› Remove from heat and add vanilla and salt. Add the cereal and gently fold it in until all of the cereal is well coated in marshmallows.

Add in another cup or two of mini marshmallows, graham cracker pieces and chocolate pieces. Gently fold it all together until combined.

›› Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Lightly press the mixture into the pan using a greased spatula. You can also add some toasted marshmallow, graham crackers, and chocolate pieces on top as garnish - gently press them all into the tops.

›› Let cool for one hour before cutting. Enjoy!

SUMMER FUN

DIY Marbleized Paper Crafting

Looking for a creative way to keep the kids entertained during those long summer days? Say goodbye to boredom and hello to creativity with this simple and engaging DIY craft project: marbleized paper!

With just a few basic supplies, you and your little ones can create beautiful, marbleized designs that are perfect for a variety of fun projects.

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

›› white paper (card stock or printer paper) a baking sheet

›› foam shaving cream (not gel)

›› food coloring

›› a popsicle stick (or similar tool for swirling)

›› an old credit card or gift card for scraping

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE:

›› Begin by spreading shaving cream onto the baking sheet in a thick, smooth layer.

›› Drip food coloring onto the shaving cream in various spots.

›› Use a popsicle stick to gently swirl the colors together, creating unique patterns.

›› Press a piece of paper onto the surface of the shaving cream, then lift it off after about 30 seconds.

›› Use an old credit card to scrape away the excess shaving cream from the paper, revealing the marbled design underneath.

›› Once your marbleized paper is dry, the creative possibilities are endless! Use it to cover homemade journals, create unique greeting cards, or even frame it as a piece of art. Let your imagination run wild!

With just a few simple steps, you can turn a lazy summer afternoon into a fun and creative crafting adventure. HF

WRITTEN BY ASHLEY WEDDING Ashley is the editor of Owensboro Parent Magazine. She enjoys everyday adventures with her husband, Drew, and their three kids, Avery, Reed and Mason.

Photo by Jamie Plain

Community

Photo by Darrin Phegley

HEALING WITH WORDS A Journey from Loss to Hope

Photos by Darrin Phegley

Dani Girten spends her days commuting to and from her job at the Henderson County Attorney’s Office, working as editor/publisher for Macaroni Kid serving Henderson, Owensboro and Madisonville, and caring for her children, Righley, 15, and Ellie, 5, and her partner, Brandon — all while balancing a blossoming career as a self-made author. Writing is an endeavor she never saw herself getting into, but one that has

brought healing and hope to herself, her own family and many other families.

THE HEALING JOURNEY

Dani’s journey into writing was not a conventional one. In fact, she noted that it is not something she ever saw herself doing.

“I’m not the writer in the family. My sister was. I didn’t even like reading until I was in my 20s,” she said.

For Dani, writing began as a therapeutic undertaking, guided by the encouragement of her therapist after the devastating and unexpected loss of her three-year-old daughter, Presley, in 2017. Dani turned to journaling as a means of processing her grief. However, she soon realized the lack of resources available to help her son, Righley, then eight years old, navigate his own grief over the loss of his sister.

Determined to find a way to ease her son’s pain, Dani channeled her grief into her first book, “Dear Presley.”

On her website, Dani writes about her journey into becoming an author, saying, “...amidst the darkness of grief, I found a flicker of light in writing. It became my lifeline, my way of pouring out all the emotions I couldn’t put into words. And when I saw my son struggling to understand and cope with losing his sister, I knew I had to do something.”

“Dear Presley,” Dani said, is a book written from the perspective of a brother to his sister in heaven, crafted with the intention of offering solace and understanding to siblings mourning the loss of a loved one. Drawing from her own experiences and conversations with Righley, Dani, through her book, was able to reassure children that it’s okay to grieve and that their feelings are valid.

“It’s been healing in some ways. Other times I feel like, when I’m writing or I’m trying to drag out these emotions, I’m like a total wreck. I’ll be in there and I’ll have like two words down and I’ll be sobbing,” she said. “It was a lot harder than I anticipated – writing to her on my own and, you know … just putting down the thoughts was one thing.”

Trying to figure out what to write that might help her son and others who are coping with the loss of a sibling was something entirely different. Dani said she tried talking to Righley to better understand his needs, but it wasn’t always easy, especially for a young child who’s understanding of death and grief can be complicated and confusing.

“Processing and trying to get the book together was a very long process. It’s a children’s book, so you know, you don’t use a whole lot of words, or you don’t think you would, but it took me like, nine months to a year to even process all the words and get them out there,” she said.

The journey from conception to publication was a difficult one in many ways. Wrestling with her own grief while striving to create a meaningful and

impactful book presented its challenges, yet, she did it. After finally getting her story on paper, she enlisted the help of a close friend for illustrations and sought feedback from editors to ensure her message resonated, and after that, she self-published “Dear Presley” on Amazon.

“I put it out there and I got really good feedback from it, and then one thing led to another and then I wrote Everwood,” she said.

MOVING FORWARD

“Dear Presley” was just the beginning of Dani’s literary endeavors.

Following her first book, Dani then published “Discover The Realm of Everwood,” a story inspired by her love of Harry Potter and the encouragement of her dad. The story follows main characters Luca and Mia back in the magical realm of Everwood and marks the first in an upcoming chapter series for children ages 8-11.

Then, in the past year, Dani lost her father. Though the loss shook her and her

family, she used that grief to tell another story, “Bella’s Big Heart,” meant to offer solace to anyone grieving the loss of a loved one.

“My dad was like, my biggest fan,” she said. “‘Bella’s Big Heart’ … It’s for everybody. What I always say is, grieving is like you have all this love and the person that you want to give it to is not here anymore.

“And so it kind of feels like it doesn’t have a place to go, and so ‘Bella’s Big Heart’ is Bella trying to figure out what to do with all this extra love that she has, and so she’s talking to her mom and she’s like, ‘you should share it with other people.’ And so she’s sharing that love that she has for the people that she lost with others.”

The reception to Dani’s books has been overwhelmingly positive. From therapists seeking resources for their clients to her own family, and other individuals who find healing and hope through her books, her words have touched many who are grieving loss.

“I want to help other families that are grieving. Grieving is such a hard thing, especially when it comes to kids,” she said. “I think it’s good that kids know that it’s okay. You know, it’s okay to grieve. It’s okay to have these feelings. It’s okay that the person or the animal that we love isn’t here, and you can share that love with somebody else.”

A BUDDING CAREER

Balancing her writing with her career and the responsibilities of motherhood is no easy feat. Yet, Dani said her colleagues at work and her family are incredibly supportive of her journey and she continues to be inspired to share her stories with others.

As Dani looks toward the future, her journey as an author shows no signs of slowing down. With new projects on the horizon, including a sequel to her children’s series, entitled “The Guardians of Everwood,” Dani remains committed to using her words to heal and uplift others.

Dani’s books can be found at Butler’s in Henderson, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, or on her website,www.authordanigirten.com. HF

WRITTEN BY CHRISTIE NETHERTON Christie Netherton is the Community Engagement and Marketing Specialist for RiverValley Behavioral Health. She is a local Kentuckian from Frankfort with a journalism degree from the University of Kentucky. She spends her free time roller skating at local parks, snuggling with her dog, and is a self-proclaimed foodie.

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A Community Service Learning Project AKZ Teens Sew

Swing Cushions for East End Neighbors

Audubon Kids Zone (AKZ) has been serving the East End Community since 2016, and it has only continued to grow. In the summer of 2022, the teen program was created. They offered a “Minute to Win It” kickoff in the parking lot to celebrate this new addition to Audubon Kids Zone. In the first year of AKZ Teens, teens came after school on Thursdays for tutoring. Then they started the AKZ Ambassadors Program for teens. Kacee Campbell, Family Development Director, said, “When the kids that we call our ‘day ones’ – because they’ve been there since AKZ opened- moved on to middle school, they still really wanted to come to AKZ after school. We knew we would miss them if they couldn’t come, so I came up with the idea

Photo

Darrin Phegley

of AKZ Ambassadors. To be an Ambassador, they have to fill out an application, do an interview, have good grades, and give references to contact. Once they’re an AKZ Ambassador, they get off the bus at AKZ Monday-Thursday after school and help with the activities that are going on with the elementary kids, help at events, give donor and volunteer tours of AKZ, and they go on field trips to help with the elementary kids. They also get their own field trips, rewards, and opportunities to help build their social skills and self-confidence.” Their role is similar to a teacher assistant position. The teen program also offers a weeknight where teens come together on Thursday evenings.

A GROWING OPPORTUNITY

Kacee was over the teen program for one year. Kacee began her journey as an AKZ volunteer in January 2021 because she needed internship hours for her social work degree. Tammy Sutton, Executive Director, asked if she wanted to come work once her internship was completed. At first, Kacee was hesitant because she had been a stay-at-home mom, but Kacee said she fell in love with the kids and families. “I couldn’t leave,” she said. When Kacee came on as an employee, she became the fifth staff member. Now, there are twenty-three employees.

Knowing she would be moving into her new role as Family Development Director, Kacee approached Tammy about bringing on their summer 2023 intern from USI at the time, Isaiah Johnson. Kacee laughed as she recalled her conversation with Tammy, saying, “You know what would be great? If Isaiah would quit his job and take over the teen department.” Isaiah was on board, so after the completion of his social work internship last summer, he came on as a Wrap-Around Care Coordinator/Teen Program Supervisor taking over the AKZ Teens.

Kacee oversees the Wrap-Around Care Coordinators (WACCs) who are all social workers. She explained how it is the heart of AKZ, and it always has been, but they didn’t have enough employees at first. She said, “They are assigned to a family, and they empower the families to make the right choices to get their families out to break the cycle.”

THE AKZ EXPERIENCE

Referrals are given to AKZ from South Heights Elementary based on academics, social skills and family support. “We help families build their support system. It is all about who you know. The more people you know, the more support you have, the better,” expressed Kacee. The Strong Start Program is ages 0-5 where parents are involved and come work with their kids at AKZ. The Enrichment Program is for elementary aged kids. It is an afterschool program where students ride the bus from South Heights and are at AKZ from 2:30-5pm Monday-

Thursday. The AKZ Teens meet once a week on Thursdays from 5:307:30pm. They currently have an average of 20 teens attending each week. It is a voluntary program - as everyone’s schedules are busy. Kids can come and go. It is still fresh and new, and teens are at the age they are finding other things to be involved in such as sports, clubs, etc. Where the Enrichment Program offers a bus ride to and from AKZ, most of the teens walk and/or get rides to AKZ. They will play ball while the other students are leaving.

AKZ TEENS

When the teens meet, they always eat dinner together. Isaiah schedules a variety of people and organizations to come in and speak with the teens each week such as Junior Achievement, entrepreneurs and the library to name a few.

Kacee said, “We always try to hit on life skills the school doesn’t teach such as credit scores.” Isaiah said the mission statement of AKZ Teens is Respect, Togetherness and Knowledge. Those are the values they try to live by for the teen group. The three goals this program focuses on are social/emotional wellness, career exploration and financial literacy.

The summer program will be new for the teens this year. Isaiah plans to have fun activities such as field trips, swimming and community service projects.

THE LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR INITIATIVE

The “Love Your Neighbor” initiative started in Evansville with Community One who oversees the initiative. Nivea Carter, Neighborhood Coordinator, hosts

neighborhood meetings the second Tuesday of each month. “Love Your Neighbor” days are twice a year to gather neighbors together and find out what they want to see changed, what they really want to push to make the neighborhood a great place to live, etc. Nivea is the one who does these surveys.

Part of the initiative is they provide project grants. Once a year they run a grant cycle and can get up to $1,000.

THE COMMUNITY SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT

Kacee explained how the idea to make swing cushions for individuals in the neighborhood came about last spring when she was getting her own swing cushions out and noticed how she was in need of new cushions. She reached

out to Tammy, “Wouldn’t that be a cool community service learning project? For the teens to learn how to sew and make swing cushions? They can take the order, learn to sew, plan it out and deliver it to the person’s house.” Kacee said, “I’d be happy if a teenager brought me a new swing cushion.” The idea was to bring some comfort and color to their neighbors on our east end.

Last spring, Kacee and the teens wrote a project grant for swing cushions and presented at a neighborhood meeting. A week before AKZ’s biggest “Love Your Neighbor Day” that was held at the end of April, it was announced that Kacee and the teens had received the grant. At this particular meeting, AKZ fills the back of a truck up with flowers to pass out to the neighbors. The teens set up a table for neighbors to sign up to receive a swing cushion.

They limited the number of neighbors to twenty, and they filled all their spots within fifteen minutes.

By the end of this project, there will be 30+ teens who have had a hand in this project. In October 2023, they received the check and started purchasing the materials. They decided to wait until spring when the weather was warm to begin sewing the swing cushions. Tammy taught the teens how to sew. They were able to get two new sewing machines and partnered the teens up to work together.

When the neighbors signed up, they were able to mark if they needed a standard or larger cushion size. They were also asked if they would prefer patterns or solid colors. Kacee was told the more colorful the better, so Kacee decided with a pattern material.

Kacee laughed saying, “I put all

my faith into this lady at JoAnn. I know nothing about sewing. I told her this is what I am doing. This is what they said. Can you help me?” The employee at JoAnn cut all the material and said, “Here you go!”

Kacee said the biggest challenge for this project was getting volunteers and finding community members who could sew. But - she said what she loves the most about this project is “getting the teens and the older generation together. The teens here are the east end’s future and then those who have lived here to see it thrive. We are all in this together!”

As AKZ Teens continues to grow, Isaiah hopes to continue connecting the older generation and the younger generation with each other. HF

WRITTEN BY LYNDI MAUK 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 kids.

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Mentoring the Next Generation Junior Achievement Strives to Make a Difference

Henderson continues to benefit from the nonprofit organizations that serve our area. Junior Achievement is a nonprofit that uses volunteers to go into the classroom to talk with students about financial literacy, career and work readiness, and entrepreneurship. They provide all materials and resources that are needed for the volunteers to have as much success as possible with the

students in their given classroom.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN HENDERSON COUNTY

In the 2022-2023 school year, 74 classes received some sort of Junior Achievement program. It is estimated that these programs reached 1,693 students in Henderson alone. Junior

Achievement of West Kentucky serves eleven counties, including Henderson, Daviess, Union, and Webster. As a whole, this branch of the organization reaches around 21,000 students each year. There are several branches of the nonprofit across the United States. Chelsey Chaney, the Ohio Valley Program Manager for Junior Achievement, recently spoke about the importance of

Photos by Darrin Phegley

the programs offered and what Junior Achievement brings to the community. “Community members have the opportunity to be mentors to students that are interested in fields that volunteers are working in,” said Chelsey. “We want to be able to serve every grade level at every school in Henderson.” Currently, Chelsey and Junior Achievement are searching for volunteers to fill these roles so more students and classes can be involved. There are not enough mentors at this time to accomplish this goal, although Chelsey sees a bright future for Junior Achievement and believes that these programs will grow much further. There are nine classrooms open in Henderson that are in need of volunteers. High school juniors and seniors are welcome to volunteer for these opportunities and will be working with kindergarten classes.

THE “MISS BUSINESS” EVENT

One recent event that Junior Achievement held was the “Miss Business” program. During this event, students were paired with a mentor that had a job that the girls were interested in that they selected via a survey. Once paired, students were able to ask questions about their selected job and learned about what the job is like, what job applications entail, interview skills, work attire, identifying skills and positive qualities, and social media presence and etiquette. There were several activities that students could participate in and there were also Virtual Reality (VR) headsets that allowed the girls to try out whichever job they were

interested in. Modules for the headsets included Distribution Line Worker, Transmission Line Worker, Broadband Tower Construction, Electrician, Solar Technician, Broadband Utility Construction, Registered Nurse, Surgical Technologist, Emergency Medical Technician, Network Technician, Semiconductor Manufacturing Technician, and Welder. There are several new modules being added to the roster for the VR headsets, as well, including Carpenter, Construction Laborer, Pharmacy Technician, Robotics Specialist, Medical Assistant, and more. This was the pilot year for this program and Chelsey is hoping to spread it to other counties and also continue it for the upcoming years. Chelsey is also hopeful that more events will be coming up this year and in the upcoming school year.

BECOMING A JA VOLUNTEER

If you are interested in getting involved with Junior Achievement as a student or community member who wants to spread information on your career, please contact Chelsey Chaney at 270-314-5287 or Chelsey. Chaney@ja.org. She stated that calls, texts, and emails are welcome. If interested people are not comfortable going into classrooms, there are ways to assist with setup for events. Chelsey wants to emphasize that all volunteers will receive training before they go into a classroom, so all volunteers are well prepared. For more information, the Junior Achievement website can be viewed at westky.ja.org. Thank you, Chelsey, and thank you, Junior Achievement, for serving our community! HF

WRITTEN BY KAYCEE INGE Kaycee Inge has lived in Henderson her entire life and plans to keep it that way. She loves animals and movies, and enjoys drawing with charcoal and working on local political campaigns in her spare time.

We are excited to announce the winners of our 2024 Henderson Family Favorites contest, where you, our loyal and trustworthy readers, have the opportunity to make your voices heard. Hundreds of you cast your votes for your favorites — from pediatricians and parks to sweet treats and boutiques. Take a look at all of the 2024 Family Favorites and see if your choices made the cut.

Favorite Food Truck

PLATINUM WINNER TRAPPIN CHICK’N

You can find Trappin Chick’n parked in different locations throughout Henderson. They offer wings, sliders, quesadillas, loaded red potatoes, fries, nachos and more. Follow them on social media to find where they are headed to serve the community next.

GOLD WINNER UP IN SMOKE BBQ

Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurant

PLATINUM WINNER TACOHOLICS

Tacoholics offers the perfect kid-friendly atmosphere for those fun, family outings, and kids eat free on Saturday.

GOLD WINNER MISTER B’S PIZZA & WINGS

Favorite Restaurant

PLATINUM WINNER HOMETOWN ROOTS

Hometown Roots is locallyowned and located in downtown Henderson offering delicious, southern comfort food. With weekly specials, a welcoming atmosphere and friendly customer service, you’ll be ready to plan your next visit before walking out the door.

GOLD WINNER TACOHOLICS

Photo by Darrin Phegley

Favorite Coffee Shop

PLATINUM WINNER ROAST COFFEE BAR

Roast Coffee Bar is the perfect place to grab your morning brew, offering a variety of delicious coffee and latte flavors. Not a coffee drinker? Grab a refreshing iced tea and satisfy your sweet tooth with freshly made muffins and scones, along with your favorite Roast beverage.

GOLD WINNER ANTLER SPECIALTY GOODS

Favorite Sweet Treat

PLATINUM WINNER COFFEE + CREAM

Coffee + Cream is a coffee and ice cream shop located in the Eastgate Shopping Center. Offering 16 flavors yearround, along with ice cream cakes and miniature ice cream treats, customers are sure to find the perfect treat to satisfy their sweet tooth.

GOLD WINNER THE DAIRIETTE

Favorite Donut Shop

PLATINUM WINNER DONUT BANK

Donut Bank is a family-owned bakery serving the community and tri-state since 1967. They offer donuts, pastries, cookies, coffee drinks and more.

WINNER GOLDEN GLAZE BAKERY

GOLD

Favorite Burger Joint

PLATINUM WINNER

METZGER’S TAVERN

Metzger’s is more than a local neighborhood bar. Known for their delicious burgers, bean soup, house-made chili and old-fashioned dipped dogs, you’ll never leave the tavern hungry.

GOLD WINNER MR. D’S

Favorite Mexican Restaurant

PLATINUM WINNER TACOHOLICS

Tacoholics offers traditional Mexican dishes. Made with fresh ingredients and full of flavor, you can find your favorite dishes all week long. Local customers love the fajitas, chimichangas and Mexican street tacos.

GOLD WINNER AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL

Favorite Pizza Place

PLATINUM WINNER

MISTER B’S PIZZA & WINGS

Mister B’s Pizza and Wings is a locally owned and operated sports themed restaurant – famous for their pizza and wings. They offer a variety of pizza options including their house specialty pizzas such as buffalo chicken, chicken pesto and quesadilla pizza. Packed with televisions and a game room for kids, Mister B’s provides great food, great service and entertainment for the entire family.

GOLD WINNER

ROCKHOUSE ON THE RIVER

Favorite Sandwich Shop

PLATINUM WINNER SIDEWALK

CAFÉ

Sidewalk Cafe is a family-owned business serving the Henderson community. Offering a variety of sandwiches, soups, salads, sides and desserts, you will enjoy this family-friendly restaurant making you feel right at home.

GOLD WINNER HOMER’S BARBECUE

Favorite BBQ Restaurant

PLATINUM WINNER

HOMER’S BARBECUE

Homer’s Barbecue is a local barbecue joint located in downtown Henderson offering smoked meats, sandwiches, craft sides and more.

GOLD WINNER THOMASON’S BARBECUE

Favorite Breakfast

PLATINUM WINNER

EASTGATE FAMILY RESTAURANT

Eastgate Family Restaurant has been serving the community of Henderson for over four decades. They are known for their all-day breakfast offering classic favorites like fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon and perfectly cooked eggs. They believe breakfast should be a celebration of flavors and the Eastgate family loves being a place where friends and family gather around the table.

GOLD WINNER BROWN BAG BURGERS

Photo by Jamie Plain

Favorite Pediatrician

PLATINUM WINNER

RACHEL FARMER, MD

Dr. Farmer is a pediatrician with Deaconess Clinic Henderson — Pediatrics. She is board certified in the American Board of Pediatrics, and her goal is to “equip families and caregivers to provide the best care for their child.”

GOLD WINNER

JENNIFER LILES, MD

Favorite Medical Practice

PLATINUM WINNER

DEACONESS CLINIC

Deaconess Clinic is open Monday-Friday offering a variety of services such as family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, gastroenterology and podiatry.

GOLD WINNER

OWENSBORO HEALTH

HEALTHPLEX

Favorite Chiropractic Office

PLATINUM WINNER

BAKER FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

Baker Family Chiropractic is focused on holistic, natural healing. Some of their services include sports related and work injuries, pediatrics, pregnancy care and women’s health issues, in addition to school physicals, performance training, and more.

GOLD WINNER NUNEZ CHIROPRACTIC

Favorite Retirement/ Assisted Living Facility

PLATINUM WINNER

THE HOMEPLACE OF HENDERSON

The Homeplace of Henderson is a senior care facility offering trained staff, state of the art technology, a home-like atmosphere and more. Their residents have a range of socialization and activity opportunities, while also offering both personal and memory care services.

GOLD WINNER

COLONIAL ASSISTED LIVING & INDEPENDENT LIVING

Favorite Optometry Office

PLATINUM WINNER OLIVER OPTOMETRICS

Oliver Optometrics offers optical care services for both adults and children. Offering routine vision and/or pediatric eye exams, eye disease observation and treatment and emergency eye services, their doctors are ready to assist you with all of your vision care needs.

GOLD WINNER ADVANCED EYECARE ASSOCIATES

Favorite Urgent Care

PLATINUM WINNER

OWENSBORO HEALTH HENDERSON HEALTHPLEX

Owensboro Health Henderson Healthplex offers both walk-in and virtual visits for minor emergencies. Providing services for common illnesses, minor injuries, screenings, imaging, eye and skin conditions, their urgent care providers are ready to care for you.

GOLD WINNER

DEACONESS CLINIC

Favorite OBGYN

PLATINUM WINNER

SARAH O’NAN, MD

Dr. Sarah O’Nan serves the community of Henderson at Deaconess Henderson — OBGYN. Currently accepting new patients, she is board certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support Provider, CPR and First Responder, Neonatal Resuscitation, NCC Credential Fetal Monitoring and Basic Disaster Life Support.

GOLD WINNER

JOHN RASHIDIAN, MD

Favorite Primary Care Physician

PLATINUM WINNER

SCOTT A. WATKINS, MD

Dr. Scott Watkins is an MD with Deaconess Clinic –Henderson and is board certified on the American Board of Internal Medicine.

GOLD WINNER

JOSH S. KITCHENS, MD

Favorite Pharmacy

PLATINUM WINNER

BUTLER’S APOTHECARY

Butler’s Apothecary is a hometown family-owned pharmacy located in downtown Henderson. They offer low prices on prescriptions, compounding, free pill packaging, free delivery, curbside service, immunizations, strep/flu/ covid testing and a 24/7 pharmacist on call.

GOLD WINNER T&T DRUG STORE

Favorite Dental Office

PLATINUM WINNER

AUDUBON DENTAL

Audubon Dental offers a variety of services to the Henderson community including crowns, dentures, bridges, relines, fillings and more. They are committed to providing you with all your dental needs.

GOLD WINNER

JESSICA H. RENAKER, DMD

Favorite

Place for Rainy Day Fun

PLATINUM WINNER

DIAMOND LANES ECHO

Echo Lanes offers fun for the entire family with open lanes daily and reservation times available. With bowling specials, a variety of great food and as many games of bowling as you’d like to play, Echo Lanes is ready to welcome you.

Photo by Jamie Plain

Favorite Accounting Firm

PLATINUM WINNER

ALEXANDER THOMPSON

ARNOLD PLLC

ATA is a full-service accounting firm. Their professionals provide a wide array of accounting, auditing, tax, and consulting services for their clients ranging from small family-owned businesses to publicly traded companies, and international corporations.

GOLD WINNER

KEMPER CPA GROUP LLP

Favorite Real Estate Agent

PLATINUM WINNER

MELINDA LUNTSFORD

Melinda Luntsford is an agent with ERA First Advantage Reality and has earned many local and national awards. Providing exceptional customer service, she is always just a call away from buying or selling your home or business.

GOLD WINNER

TARA DIXON

Favorite Real Estate Company

PLATINUM WINNER

ERA FIRST ADVANTAGE REALTY

ERA First Advantage Realty provides quality customer service, making every real estate transaction as easy as can be.

GOLD WINNER

F.C. TUCKER/COLLIER

Favorite Law Firm

PLATINUM WINNER

VOWELS LAW PLC

Vowels Law PLC is a law firm founded in 2011 by Attorney Austin P. Vowels. Primary practice areas include federal black lung benefits claims, civil litigation, personal injury/wrongful death, appeals, family (divorce, custody, adoption) and contract.

GOLD WINNER

KING, DEEP AND BRANAMAN

by Jamie Plain

Favorite Bank

PLATINUM WINNER

FIELD & MAIN BANK

Field & Main Bank is a community bank with Modern Craft Banking being their brand promise by offering a more personalized banking experience. From checking and savings accounts to card services, wealth management and more, they are ready to assist you with all of your banking needs.

GOLD WINNER INDEPENDENCE BANK

Favorite Credit Union

PLATINUM WINNER

LIBERTY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Liberty Federal Credit Union, formerly Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union, serves community members from all walks of life, and they are ready to help you with all of your credit union needs.

GOLD WINNER

HERITAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Favorite Mortgage Company

PLATINUM WINNER

FIELD & MAIN BANK

Field & Main Bank doesn’t see their client as just a homebuyer but a friend. Offering exceptional customer service and education when it comes to purchasing a home, they are ready to offer their expertise to help you with your home buying experience.

GOLD WINNER

LIBERTY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Favorite Financial Advisory Group

PLATINUM WINNER

GUIDEWISE FINANCIAL GROUP

GuideWise Financial Group is committed to helping you prepare for your life, whether it’s expected or unexpected. Some areas of focus include charitable giving, estate and retirement planning strategies, social security retirement benefits, investment management, family finances and more.

GOLD WINNER EDWARD JONES

Photo

Favorite Photographer

PLATINUM WINNER

B + B PHOTOGRAPHY

Brooke Hallmark and Brylee Cannon are two best friends just chasing their dream and telling your story with their cameras.

GOLD WINNER

HOMETOWN PROUDWHITNEY HAYNES

Favorite Funeral Home

PLATINUM WINNER

TOMBLINSON FUNERAL HOMES

Tomblinson Funeral Homes offers a variety of funeral and cremation services to meet your family’s needs. Their directors will assist you and your family through every step from choosing the type of service and monument to offering life tribute videos in memory of your loved one.

GOLD WINNER

BENTON-GLUNT & TAPP FUNERAL HOME

Favorite Automotive Repair

PLATINUM WINNER

HARGIS COLLISION

Hargis Collision is a family-owned and operated automotive body and repair shop. Offering top quality car care and delivering honest and professional warranty repair collision and body work, they are ready to serve you.

GOLD WINNER CLASSIC AUTOMOTIVE COLLISION CENTER

Favorite Auto Dealership

PLATINUM WINNER

HENDERSON CHEVROLET GMC

Henderson Chevrolet GMC has been serving the Henderson community for over 20 years. From purchasing a new vehicle to offering maintenance service, their dealership professionals will provide you with quality customer service every step of the way.

GOLD WINNER KATE FAUPEL FORD

Favorite Insurance Agent

PLATINUM WINNER

JAMES RUNION

James Runion is your local Henderson County Kentucky Farm Bureau agent and is ready to help get you the correct level of coverage.

GOLD WINNER CHASE FULCHER

Favorite Insurance Agency

PLATINUM WINNER

KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU

Kentucky Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company is the #1 property and casualty insurance provider in the state. Offering two offices in Henderson County, it makes it easy for members of this community to access all the membership benefits.

GOLD WINNER STATE FARM

Favorite Boutique

PLATINUM WINNER THE OLIVE LEAF

The Olive Leaf is located in downtown Henderson and owned by two sisters who always had a dream to own a store together. Offering a variety of stylish clothing, accessories, unique gifts and decor, the ladies at the Olive Leaf are ready to help you with all of your shopping needs.

GOLD WINNER ELITE DOWNTOWN

Favorite Kids

Clothing Store

PLATINUM WINNER

FALCON CREEK BOUTIQUE

Falcon Creek Boutique offers fashionable infant and children’s clothing, gifts, embroidery services and more.

GOLD WINNER OLIVE + MAE BOUTIQUE

Favorite Gift Shop

PLATINUM WINNER

BEACHBUM FARMS

DESIGNS AND COMPANY

Beachbum is a family-owned business located in downtown Henderson. They offer a wide variety of home decor, baby and wedding gifts, floral arrangements and more.

GOLD WINNER

SWEET PEA’S GIFT SHOP

Favorite Florist

PLATINUM WINNER

J’PETALS FLORAL & GIFTS

J’Petals has been serving the Henderson community for over 14 years. From florals and gift registries to wedding and interior design services, they are ready to serve you.

GOLD WINNER SHAW’S FLOWERS INC.

Photo by Jamie Plain

by

Favorite Place to take a Family Hike

PLATINUM WINNER

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK

John James Audubon State Park is open year-round. Visitors can experience the beauty of the outdoors on their own hiking adventure, or they may hit the trails on a hiking event hosted by John James Audubon State Park.

GOLD WINNER

SANDY LEE WATKINS PARK

Favorite Car Wash/Detailer

PLATINUM WINNER

OLLIE WASH

Ollie Wash features state-of-the-art equipment to clean your vehicle safely and thoroughly. Offering four types of washes, along with a free vacuum, customers are sure to enjoy the Ollie Wash experience.

GOLD WINNER GREEN STREET CAR WASH

Photo

Darrin Phegley

Favorite Date Night Spot

PLATINUM WINNER

HOMETOWN ROOTS

Hometown Roots is the perfect date night spot offering dine-in and outdoor seating in beautiful, downtown Henderson. Offering weekly specials, you are sure to be introduced to a new, delicious dish you can’t find anywhere else on their southern comfort menu.

Favorite Place to Work

PLATINUM

HENDERSON COUNTY

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The mission of the Henderson County Schools is to provide extraordinary educational opportunities for every student. The vision of Henderson County Schools is to excel as a national innovative leader in education.

Favorite Home Builder

PLATINUM WINNER

DAVID SHELTON HOMES

Since 2004, David Shelton Homes’ mission is to give each homeowner an enjoyable and rewarding building experience. David ensures each build has quality construction by using quality materials and the best subcontractors in the tri-state while building relationships with the homeowners and having honest communication throughout the process.

GOLD WINNER

JOE MATTINGLY BUILDERS, INC.

Favorite Heating & Air Company

PLATINUM WINNER

WOODARD COOLING & HEATING

Woodard Cooling and Heating is family-owned and operated with over 40 years of experience and knowledge. They specialize in both residential and commercial HVAC and are a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer. GOLD

HAGER AND SON HEATING & COOLING

Favorite Hair Salon

PLATINUM WINNER SALON CALIDORA

Salon Calidora is here to meet all your beauty needs. Located in downtown Henderson, Salon Calidora’s stylists not only cater to cuts and color, but they offer services such as special hair treatments, microblading and more. New clients are always welcome, so make your appointment today.

GOLD WINNER BEAUTY BOX SALON

Favorite Pet Groomer

PLATINUM WINNER

HAPPY HOUNDS PET SALON

Happy Hounds Pet Salon LLC has been open for 7 years. Offering 5 groomers, a boarding facility and training for pups, they have 41 years of combined experience making them one of the most experienced grooming shops in Henderson.

GOLD WINNER SHAGGY CHIC GROOM & BOARD

Favorite Barber Shop

PLATINUM WINNER

K.T.’S BARBERSHOP

K.T.’s Barbershop is conveniently located in downtown Henderson and accepts both appointments and walk-ins. Offering haircuts for men, women and kids, straight razor shaves or hair services for those special occasions, these barber/stylists are ready to help give you the look you deserve.

GOLD WINNER LEE’S BARBERSHOP

Photo by Jamie Plain

Favorite Sports League

PLATINUM WINNER

HENDERSON PCMA

The Henderson PCMA (Players, Coaches and Managers Association) is a non-profit, recreational baseball league for youth between the ages of 5-10.

GOLD WINNER

HENDERSON GIRLS SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION

Favorite Dance Studio

PLATINUM WINNER

DANCE FACTORY

The Dance Factory opened in 1992. The studio offers dance instruction in a Christian environment for all ages from toddlers to adults. Classes include ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, and hip-hop along with several preschool class options.

GOLD WINNER FIERCE X DANCE STUDIO

Favorite Golf Course

PLATINUM WINNER

THE BRIDGES GOLF COURSE OF HENDERSON

The Bridges Golf Course of Henderson offers a variety of leagues for all ages including men, women, kids and couples. The course is open to the public and golf lessons are offered with Bill Rendall, who is a Quarter Century PGA Member and golf professional.

GOLD WINNER

HENDERSON COUNTRY CLUB

Favorite Park

PLATINUM WINNER

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK

For over 75 years, John James Audubon State Park has been serving the Henderson community. It is a hidden treasure that is a favorite for family and children’s programs/events, local art exhibits, weddings, family reunions, school field trips and more.

GOLD WINNER CENTRAL PARK

Photo by Carolyn’s Captures

Favorite Charity Event

PLATINUM WINNER

RUNWAY RED — MATTHEW 25

Runway Red is a Matthew 25 signature fundraising event highlighting 10 locally owned boutiques in a fashion showcase. There are 30 community members who model the spring/ summer items, and guests have the opportunity to shop vendors, participate in a silent auction and enjoy cocktails and appetizers before the show begins.

GOLD WINNER NIGHT FOR LIFE – MARSHA’S PLACE PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER

Favorite Radio Station

PLATINUM WINNER WSON

WSON radio brings everyone’s favorite tunes, sports and news to the Henderson community.

GOLD WINNER WKDQ

Favorite Preschool

PLATINUM WINNER THELMA B. JOHNSON EARLY LEARNING CENTER

Thelma B. is providing a high-quality education through exploration and learning in a nurturing environment. Every child. Every effort. Every day.

GOLD WINNER BUSY BEES EDUCARE

Favorite Annual Event

PLATINUM WINNER TRI-FEST

The Henderson Breakfast Lion’s Club Tri-Fest is an annual fundraiser for local non-profits. All money raised by the Lion’s Club goes back to the community. This event offers a variety of vendors, music, food and carnival rides for the entire family to enjoy.

GOLD WINNER THE W.C. HANDY BLUES & BARBECUE FESTIVAL

Favorite Gym/Fitness Center

PLATINUM WINNER HENDERSON FAMILY YMCA

The YMCA serves Henderson County youth, adults and families and helps promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility all while building a Christian spirit, mind and body.

GOLD WINNER PLANET FITNESS

Favorite Running Race

PLATINUM WINNER TURKEY TROT 5K

The Turkey Trot 5k is an annual event held each Thanksgiving morning by the Brain Injury Adventure Camp in Henderson. This event brings families together to support a great organization within our community.

GOLD WINNER TRI-FEST 5K

Discover

Read with Dad for Father’s Day!

I Love Dad

By: Joanna Walsh

A dinosaur father and child share their day, from morning yawns to fantastic bedtime stories, in a celebration of the many wonderful things about fathers.

Froggy’s Day with Dad

By: Jonathan London

Froggy and his dad celebrate Father’s Day with a game of miniature golf, among other things.

Bluey: My Dad is Awesome

By: Penguin Young Readers Licenses

Everyone loves Bandit, but especially Bluey and Bingo! He’s always making up funny games, playing Daddy Robot, and taking them on exciting adventures. This is the perfect book to celebrate your dad on Father’s Day, or any day, and share what makes him awesome!

Splat the Cat Makes Dad Glad

By: Rob Scotton

When dad’s team loses a soccer game, Splat the Cat decides to cheer up his dad by entering them into a father-son three-legged race at the Cat School Game Day. When the race doesn’t go the way Splat hopes, will he still succeed in making his dad glad again? Beginning readers will love this hilarious easy-to-read addition to the Splat series that features the “-ad” sound.

The Night Before Father’s Day

By: Natasha Wing

In rhyming text based on “The Night before Christmas,” a father’s wife and two children prepare several special surprises for him for Father’s Day.

Biscuit Loves Father’s Day

By: Alyssa Satin Capucilli

Celebrate Father’s Day with Biscuit! Unfold the big flaps and join Biscuit for fun times with dad - exploring, playing and sharing.

Nurturing Emotional Well-Being in our Children

When emotions are high, people often act and do things they would not do on a normal day. When you are a young child, this might very well be what you do all the time.

Consider this scenario: Bradley is struggling with his spelling words. Instead of screaming and giving up, he tells his dad how frustrated he is and asks for help. Or this one: Haley’s friend gets some upsetting news and cancels their plans to go to the movies. Haley understands why her friend doesn’t feel like socializing and makes other plans.

These reactions may not appear significant at first glance. However, they signify a critical set of abilities constituting what is referred to as "emotional intelligence" (EI). Unlike IQ tests, emotional intelligence

isn't quantified in traditional ways. Nonetheless, it plays a pivotal role in assisting us in navigating obstacles and effectively responding to various situations. It aids us in establishing meaningful connections with those around us.

Emotional intelligence is the ability to process feelings, our own and other people’s. It means being able to notice, understand and take action on emotions in an effective way. As parents and educators, fostering emotional intelligence in children is a fundamental responsibility that lays the foundation for their future relationships, academic achievements, and mental health.

The concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) has been present for decades, gaining popularity with

the 1995 publication "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ" by psychologist Daniel Goleman. Goleman outlined emotional intelligence as consisting of five key elements:

1 SELF-AWARENESS

This involves individuals recognizing their emotions in the moment and understanding how their moods influence others.

2 SELF-REGULATION

People who possess self-regulation can control their emotional responses, considering potential consequences before acting impulsively.

3 MOTIVATION

Individuals with strong motivation can achieve their objectives despite encountering negative or distracting emotions.

4 EMPATHY

Empathetic individuals can comprehend and share the emotions of others.

5 SOCIAL SKILLS

Those with developed social skills can effectively manage relationships, understanding which behaviors warrant positive responses from others.

Emotional self-control, a significant aspect of emotional intelligence, refers to the skill of controlling one's emotional experiences and outward displays of feelings. Through repeated practice, children improve their ability to regulate their emotions. Typically, by the age of four, most children begin using techniques to reduce the impact of upsetting external factors. For instance, they may shield their eyes when frightened or block their ears in response to loud sounds.

Feelings serve a purpose in our lives. The only way you can learn to regulate a feeling is to feel it. That is how kids learn.

This is how kids learn to self regulate. The foundational aspect of emotional intelligence involves being aware of and understanding our emotions. Before we can effectively manage and express our emotions, we must first acknowledge and comprehend them. Emotions are integral to human evolution and serve specific purposes.

Children need to experience and learn to tolerate these emotions in order to cultivate self-control and emotional intelligence. But we can all agree that children cannot be what they do not see. Keeping that sentence in mind here are some tools to enable your child to comprehend and describe their emotions in a positive and healthy way.

Model positive behavior. Show your child how you respond to challenging situations. When you model listening, patience and understanding they will be more likely to respond in that way. Remember, you are the one that teaches them how to handle the world.

Create a safe and accepting space where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Foster Empathy and PerspectiveTaking. Cultivate empathy by encouraging children to consider other people's perspectives and feelings.

Provide opportunities for children to practice empathy through acts of kindness, cooperation, and understanding towards others.

Promote Self-Awareness and Reflection. Help children develop selfawareness by encouraging reflection on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Prompt them to consider how their actions impact themselves and others. Engage in activities like journaling, mindfulness exercises, and provide activities that promote self-reflection.

Provide Opportunities for social interactions. Encourage children to participate in group activities, team sports, or collaborative projects that foster social skills like communication, cooperation, and empathy.

Investing in the emotional intelligence of children is a continuous process that requires patience, empathy, and consistent support from parents and educators. By implementing the strategies outlined, we can empower children to navigate the complexities of their emotions, build meaningful relationships, and thrive in all aspects of their lives. Remember, nurturing their emotional well-being today lays the groundwork for a brighter and more resilient future tomorrow. HF

WRITTEN BY CHRISTINA DALTON, MSSW, LCSW Christina Dalton, is a District Social Worker for Daviess County Public Schools.

WSummer Fun for Everyone!

hen I was growing up, I remember spending my summer breaks playing outside with the neighborhood kids. We would ride our bikes, skate and play ball. We would take a break for lunch and eat popsicles later in the day. Other days my mom and aunt would take my cousins and I to the community pool to swim. The list of summer fun was endless.

We now live in a world filled with technology, and I often hear parents talk about how they feel as though their kiddos become easily bored or have trouble coming up with things to do. Coming up with ideas to keep the kids busy during the summer months can sometimes be a challenge. We want them to enjoy their summer break, and we want their summer packed with fun.

Kids like to be included - especially when it comes to something they will be part of. Two ways to kick your summer off with excitement are to make a summer bucket list and make a fun, themed weekday schedule.

A SUMMER BUCKET LIST

Let your kids brainstorm what THEY want to do this summer. If you have smaller children, help them get their ideas on paper. Explain you are wanting to gather ideas and provide examples such as getting ice cream or visiting a new park. This allows for more realistic ideas instead of your kids listing “going to Disney World.” That may not be in the summer budget, but you could suggest going to Holiday World instead, or other places closer to home and less expensive. This will get their wheels rolling as they consider all the possibilities of summer fun. Have them make a list of places they want to go and things they want to do.

Once each child has made their list, have them cut their ideas out and put them into a jar or container. To add another level of fun - let them create and/or decorate their own

summer fun jar! This allows quality time to be spent with your children before summer even begins.

You can decide how you want to go about checking things off your bucket list based on how many ideas your kid(s) have come up with. You may decide for them to draw out of their jar/container every Sunday night to see what bucket list item you plan to check off for the week, or if there are a bucket full of ideas then maybe your goal is to check off multiple items per week.

THEMED WEEKDAYS

Another great idea for summer fun is to brainstorm with your kids five themes to focus on every weekday throughout the summer. For example, maybe every Monday you plan to have a movie night, Tuesdays visit a new park and Wednesdays bake a dessert, etc. Your kids will love coming up with ideas they are interested in and adventures/ hobbies related to their age. Even if you have more than one child and an age gap, this can still be a great way to spend quality time together and each idea can be catered to each individual child. For example, craft days can focus on the same theme such as seashells, yet be geared towards each child’s age. A 3-year-old might paint a picture of a seashell while an 8-year-old might go a step further and create a seashell salt painting. There are so many different ideas you can find online or on Pinterest, so working together with your kids to come up with what you want to do each day will be fun. They will know what to expect each weekday based on the themes chosen, yet each week will look different because something new will be planned for those themes. If Wednesdays are for water fun then you might play in the water sprinkler one week and visit a splash pad the next Wednesday. Fridays might be for family night where one week you watch a movie, the next catch lightning bugs and another week play board

WRITTEN BY LYNDI MAUK 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 kids.

games. It truly is all about your own individual family and what will be most enjoyable for your kids.

Having a summer bucket list and/or making a themed weekday schedule is a great way to allow your children to use their imagination and creativity to come up with ideas for summer fun. It can also help take a little bit of pressure off of the parents knowing you already have summer adventures planned out ahead of time. Enjoy soaking in the quality time, the smiles, the laughs and the memories with your family this summer! HF

SUMMER BUCKET LIST IDEAS

Take a hike

Go swimming

Visit a theme park

Play in the rain

Make s’mores

Have a picnic

Visit the zoo

Bake a cake

Go bowling

Fly a kite

Paint a picture

Eat ice cream

Go for a family walk

Visit a new park

Play in the sprinkler

Read a book

Go fishing Plant flowers

THEMED WEEKDAY IDEAS

Monday: Movies

Have a movie night.

Tuesday: Treats

Bake a new recipe.

Wednesday: Water Day

Make a splash.

Thursday: Themed Craft Get creative.

Friday: Family Fun

Go on a family adventure.

Out & About

13 Local Things to do THIS SUMMER

1

Porchfest

SATURDAY, JUNE 1 @ 5:00-8:00PM

DOWNTOWN HENDERSON - SOUTH MAIN STREET

Porchfest is a vibrant community event where South Main Street’s front porches come alive with local music, food trucks, and dancing. This free, family-friendly evening offers an al fresco experience, inviting everyone to enjoy the music and atmosphere of this unique outdoor concert series. For more information, please contact the Chamber of Commerce at 270-826-7505.

2

“Take a Hike 2024”

SATURDAY, JUNE 1 @ 9:00AM

CANOE CREEK NATURE TRAIL AT NEWMAN PARK

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Support a worthy cause benefiting Elevate at the Sandefur Center on this 3 mile hike (easy to moderate). Registration is $35 and includes a t-shirt. This event is presented by Field & Main Bank. To register, please visit www.elevatewky.org.

3

Exploring the Arts- 3-day art camp ages 6-8

TUESDAY, JUNE 4 - THURSDAY, JUNE 6 @ 10 - 11:45AM GALLERY 101

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Students ages 6-8 will be creating art by using different mediums such as colored pencils, pastels, tempera and more. If your student loves art, they will love this 3-day art camp. Cost is $42 (supplies are included). The class is limited, so pre-register today at kim.mcgrew0930@gmail.com

4

W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12 - SATURDAY, JUNE 15 @ ALL-DAY

AUDUBON MILL PARK

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Head down to Audubon Mill Park for the annual W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival, named one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s 2023 Top 20 Events! Enjoy four days of free blues music, food vendors, and familyfriendly activities.

Operation WILD Summer Nature Camps

TUESDAYS – THURSDAYS IN JUNE

Little Chickadees (ages 3-5/$18)

June 4-6 @ 10:30-11:45am Wrens (ages 6-8/$30)

June 11-13 @ 10:00am – Noon Raptors (ages 9-12/$45)

June 25-27 @ 9am -Noon

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK

The naturalists at John James Audubon State Park have planned activities to help your child explore the wonders of WILDlife during these three-day kid’s nature adventures. Each day’s lesson revolves around a nature-oriented theme full of fun games, hikes, crafts, animals, science experiments, and other activities. Reserve a spot in the appropriate age level today. Pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact Lisa Hoffman at 502-782-9727.

5 6

Children’s

Make-N-Take Crafts

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

@ ALL-DAY

HENDERSON COUNTY PUBLIC

LIBRARY

Art ages 3-6

FRIDAYS, JUNE 7 & JULY 12 @ 10:30 - 11:30AM GALLERY 101 {

Bring those little artists to a fun-filled morning of art! Dress for a mess and have some fun with lines, shapes, and colors. Preregistration is required, and students must come with an adult. Cost is $8. For pre-registration, please email kim.mcgrew0930@ gmail.com.

Head on over to the library to enjoy an afternoon of fun crafts children can make in the messy room and take home to enjoy. For more information, please call 270-826-3712. 8 9

Advanced ART- 3-day Art Camp ages 9-13

TUESDAY, JUNE 18 - THURSDAY, JUNE 20 @ 10:00AM - 12:15PM

GALLERY 101 {

ART, ART, ART, and more ART! This class is designed for serious artists, ages 9-12, who LOVE art. Kids will be working in acrylic on canvas, pastels, and mixed mediums. Wear old clothes to experience as many mediums as you can fit it. Pre-registration is required. Cost is $45 (supplies are included). Class is limited. Preregister today at kim.mcgrew0930@gmail.com.

Art from the Heart ages 6-8

FRIDAY, JUNE 21 @ 10 - 11:45AM

GALLERY 101

This class is for the young at HEART, who love being creative and exploring art. They will be using the principles of art: lines, shapes, value, texture, and color. Cost is $15 (supplies are included). Preregister today at kim.mcgrew0930@gmail.com.

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Studio ARTS

ages 9-13

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

& THURSDAY, JULY 18 @ 10:00AM - 12:00PM GALLERY 101

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Dipping into Watercolor wonders and mixed medium will be the topic of both days. Learning and exploring new techniques are so much fun when you love doing ART. Wear old clothes. Cost is $30 (supplies are included). Pre-registration is required. The class is limited so sign up today at kim.mcgrew0930@gmail.com.

Fireworks Celebration

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3 @ 5:00-9:30PM

AUDUBON MILL PARK

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Celebrate Independence Day at the downtown riverfront with dazzling fireworks plus live music, food trucks, and familyfriendly fun. For more information, please call 270-836-7505.

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Princess Camp-ages 6-8

TUESDAY, JULY 9 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 @ 10-11:45AM

THURSDAY, JULY 11 @ 10AM -12:15PM GALLERY 101

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Girls ages 6-8 will have a blast at princess camp. Three days of nonstop fun creating ART, learning to be a princess, storytelling and more. Thursday is the princess tea, so dress that little princess in her favorite princess dress. Cost is $45 (supplies are included). Class is limited so don’t wait. Preregistration is required at kim.mcgrew0930@gmail.com.

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Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24SATURDAY, JULY 27

DOWNTOWN HENDERSON {

The Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival transforms downtown into a haven for music enthusiasts. Experience the intimate charm of Nashville-style listening rooms as downtown restaurants and bars play host to legendary songwriters from Music City. Get up close and personal as these talented storytellers share the inspirations behind the songs that have become beloved classics. It’s a unique opportunity to dive deep into the heart of songwriting amidst the vibrant atmosphere of our city. Cost is $20. For more information, please visit sandyleesongfest.com

KIDS MEAL DEALS KIDS MEAL DEALS

Kids under 8 eat free with purchase of adult

.99 kids meal with adult purchase 5-8pm

Kids eat free 5-8 with purchase of adult entree

1 free kids meal per adult entree (dine in ONLY)

Free kids meal with adult meal purchase.

Kids under 4 eat free with adult purchase.

*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation. Restaurants, please