www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
1
2 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
3
4 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
5
6 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
nov // dec 2018 FAMILY LIFE
the seasons of christmas [10] insight from an ordinary dad [12] parental control [14] CO MMUNIT Y
fall break photos from facebook [16] student spotlight [21] on a mission [22] mason on the move [28] HAPPY HO LIDAY S
christmas countdown [32] i'll never forget that christmas [34]
[22]
[28]
[36] random acts of kindness [38] 12 days of christmas in and around obky [42] your elf on the shelf can be more nice than naughty [44] christmas away from home [48] decorating for christmas with kids SHO P LO C A L
[53] special advertising section DISCOV E R
[62] rich & creamy hot chocolate [65] the perfect turkey? [68] the kids eat free list [70] november/december calendar
[53]
[62]
[42]
[16]
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
7
nov // dec 2018
from the editor I know I say this every year, but how is it Christmas time already? This November/December issue of Owensboro Parent comes faster and faster each year it seems. But that probably has something to do with the everyday chaos that surrounds me and my two kids. Between work, homework, school projects, church, practices, games and on and on – the year just slips away. I have found one way to combat the crazy and make intentional time for me and my littles — seasonal bucket lists. These little gems have been memorymaking magic for us. Because of my work and the kids’ schedules, the time we have together is precious. But most the time I find myself on a Saturday afternoon looking around the house for something the kids and I can do. A bucket list gives me the chance to plan out the logistics of a family outing ahead of time and gives the kids something to look forward to, which typically helps with their behavior. Then, when our sporadic free time is available, we are ready! At the beginning of each season, the kids and I sit down and make a list of all the fun things we would like to do in the upcoming weeks. I try to keep the list manageable — around 15 things. I let each child put something on the list that they want, but mostly we come up with the events together. It can be simple, or something more elaborate. For us, nothing costs much. Then I take a poster board, or large piece of paper (our fall bucket list was on a random piece of cardboard) and I write out each bucket list event and typically draw something to accompany it. Each line starts with a large square, so the kids can take turns checking off our events. I thought I would share our winter bucket list with you in case you needed inspiration. Feel free to take all of our list or pick and choose what works for you -- but whatever you do, enjoy this special season with your family. Because as fast as the holidays arrive, they are over even faster. Winter Bucket List: • Build a snowman (cue the Frozen song now…) • Drink hot chocolate (there is a recipe on page 62) • Santa Claus Land of Lights at Lake Rudolph • Holiday Stroll • Clean out closets and donate to Oasis • Go sledding • Watch Christmas movies • Mail Christmas cards to family • Bake cookies • Finally use our slime kit • Build the best blanket fort ever • Drive to see Christmas lights • Get a real tree and decorate • See Santa and Mrs. Claus
EDITOR
Ashley Sorce ashley@tannerpublishing.com PUBLISHER
Taylor West taylor@tannerpublishing.com AD SALES
Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com
Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com LAYOUT & DESIGN
Jamie Alexander Andrea Roberson CONTRIBUTORS
Jamie Alexander Katie Albers Christina Dalton Jamie Roby Johnson Gail E. Kirkland Danny May Taryn Norris Ashley Sorce Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt Danelle Young FOUNDER
Jason Tanner COVER KIDS
Flora and Jossie Stiff Photo by Jamie Alexander and Taylor West Online www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/tannerpublishing Offline Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5416 Advertise Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise.
TANNER PUBLISHING CO.
8 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
9
family life
, christmas . the seasons of { by: lora wimsatt }
S
omewhere along the way, Christmas turned a corner.
bed the next morning and racing into the living room to
Actually, now that I think about it, I guess it has
tear open the packages whose tags bore my name, oblivious
turned several corners in my lifetime, but I never really
to the fact that the handwriting was strangely familiar.
noticed before now.
The “original” Christmas was the holiday of my
arrival in those early years, it seemed the years themselves
childhood. Santa Claus was real, snow was magical
flew by, and soon I was a young mother myself, hoping my
and reindeer really could fly. I was fascinated by those
own children didn’t recognize the handwriting on their
aluminum trees illuminated with the color wheel as the
gift tags.
sparkling branches glowed from red to blue to green. The
Those were the years when shopping meant endless
anticipation increased each day until it seemed I would
journeys up and down the toy aisle, searching for the
not be able to contain the excitement a moment longer …
hoped-for doll or action figure. I remember smiling to
and Christmas Eve seemed unbearably slow, with sleep an
myself as I wrapped packages of socks and underwear,
impossibility. And yet I did sleep, and although I don’t
knowing full well they would be tossed aside with barely
remember dreams of sugarplums (probably because I
disguised disgust as my children reached for their next
didn’t know what those are), I do remember leaping from
toy-shaped package.
10 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
In stark contrast to the slow pace of Christmas Day’s
www.OwensboroParent.com
Then there came the season of transition, when my
Grandchildren.
own children became young adults and were venturing
out on their own. Shopping was easier now than it
Christmas through their innocent, wondering eyes!
had been during the teen years, when “money” and
All the best memories from my own childhood
“gift cards” were the only items on their wish lists.
came to life once again. All the cherished traditions of
Now that they were setting up their own homes, they
my children’s younger days were revived.
needed everything from dishes to furniture to linens;
I could almost have just walked into any housewares
beard at the mall. Snow was magical and not a pain in
department blindfolded, picked something up at
the wazoo to shovel and plow.
random, and it would have been something they
needed.
through the night sky …
But then there came the “plateau years.” By now,
everyone was established. They had everything they
Oh, the joy, oh the delight, oh the blessing of seeing
Santa Claus was real and not an old guy with a fake
And I am sure I caught a glimpse of a reindeer flying … illuminated by a Star that has shined brightly,
steadily through the years.
OP
needed and a lot of stuff they didn’t. We were drifting back into the sad tradition of exchanging gift cards and cash when along came the most wondrous of Christmas miracles:
www.OwensboroParent.com
Lora Wimsatt is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
11
insight from an ordinary dad
family life
{ by: danny may }
'twas the month before christmas K
elly and I were at a wedding reception last Saturday night and
presents yet. After running that brutal circuit we decided to make
the couple across the table from us asked Kelly if she had any
our own new family tradition because there was no sane or joyful way
motherly advice for first-time parents because they are expecting a
we could keep up that pace once we had kids.
baby girl the week of Christmas.
They weren’t asking specifically about Christmas, but if I had
8:00 Mass, relaxed at home some more, and then visited family. Now
thought about it at the time I would have suggested they should start
instead of trying to get to every side of the family in two days, we
their own family traditions now and stick to them as the baby grows
alternate different sides of the family on opposite years or visit some
up.
at Thanksgiving and some at Christmas.
I say that because our first Christmas as a married couple 17 years
So we spent our second Christmas morning at home, went to
Another little family tradition we started recently is making
ago got pretty overwhelming because we tried to visit everybody
“waffle Santas” for breakfast Christmas morning after Mass.
under the sun. We spent the afternoon of Christmas Eve with my
Whipped cream beard and hat, cherry nose, chocolate chip eyes. I
parents, then drove an hour to Kelly’s parent’s house and spent
think we got that idea from Shrek — I can’t remember — but the
the night there Christmas Eve. Then Christmas morning we drove
kids love it. It’s the little things, right?
another two hours to my grandparent’s house (my mom’s parents),
visited my dad’s side of the family Christmas afternoon, and drove
three gifts at Christmas, which is to represent the gold, frankincense
an hour home Christmas night because Kelly and I hadn’t exchanged
and myrrh from the Christmas story. They say it helps keep things in
12 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
I have friends whose family tradition is that everyone only gets
www.OwensboroParent.com
perspective, but their “gold” gift is very special and more expensive.
one. Either way, it’s a chance to focus each day on the true meaning
of Christmas as the day gets closer.
Looking back, my mom had little ways of keeping things in
perspective when my brother and I were growing up, too. She told
us that Santa might bring the presents, but mom and dad still had to
can zoom by in a flash if you’re not careful. There are certain things
pay the bill for everything. I thought that was clever.
Somewhere along the line I heard somebody else say they always
had some presents from Santa and some from “mom and dad” on the tag, but mom and dad always gave the really good stuff.
A few years ago Kelly and I started the tradition of Christmas
I think it helps slow down time a little bit too because December
we do every year like put our tree up the Saturday after Thanksgiving and bundle up for the Holiday Stroll downtown the first Saturday in December. But other things just happen spontaneously, like walking through the lights at Legion Park or driving through Panther Creek.
adventures. We’ve always preferred spending money on experiences
rather than trinkets and gadgets, and our boys understand that. So
unplanned. So I would tell that couple, ‘yes, make a list, but be ready
one year we watched a live production of Rudolph at the RiverPark
for those magical moments that just randomly happen.’
Center. And last year the big box under the tree had pictures that
revealed our Christmas adventure getaway. Beau is still in a dinosaur
from now.
phase so there were tickets to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum,
where they have a really cool dinosaur display. And Luke had been saying he wants to be a chocolate maker when he grows up, so there was a picture of a candy store where we scheduled a tour on the way
The thing is, some of the best traditions start out completely
Those are the ones you may still be talking about 10 or 20 years This year, I’m gonna make it a point to enjoy every day as we tick
off those tabs on the advent calendar and make each day count.
Hopefully, our best traditions are yet to come.
OP
to Indy. They got less toys last year, but way better memories.
Doing an Advent calendar is another small tradition we enjoy
as a family. It’s like a countdown to Christmas where you open a new tab each day with a little activity or reading or something like
Danny May is a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent. He and his wife, Kelly, are raising two very active boys, 10 and 8.
that. Sometimes it’s scriptural, but one year we found a Minions
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
13
Q family life
{ Q&A with christina dalton,
M S S W, C S W
parental
control
I have an eighth grader and she is really struggling in a few of her classes. We have talked to the teacher and she seems to think she needs more practice because she does well on her other things. I hate seeing her struggle and I feel like I do not know how to help her?
14 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
}
A: I have been in this situation myself. It is so hard as a parent to see our kids struggle. I know with my own child, math is always a hurdle and I am terrible at it myself. Sometimes that can make us feel helpless. I always try to look at every situation and see how I can turn it into a positive or make it a life lesson. Teaching resilience to our kids is one of the most important life lessons that they can ever learn. You can talk to her about bouncing back from this. I think you can talk to her about what other resources are available to help her. What can she start doing to improve and what does that look like? Look at all the options and ways that she can start improving. Sometimes there are things we do not think about or options that we did not know existed. I know that she is still young, but it is never too early to teach her how to look at negative situations in a positive way. Communicating with the teacher is a great resource too and it sounds like you are already doing that. I know schools also have times available in either the morning or afternoon to help kids that may be struggling. This is something I would check into for her. All kids have different ways that they learn the best. Some kids need visuals while other kids need to practice more. It is important to know how your child learns best and look at
utilizing that option as well. The greatest life lessons usually come from failure. I know that your girl will bounce back from this with your continued support! Q: My son is 7 years old. He struggles staying in his seat at school, focusing and paying attention. I try to think that a lot of this is just being a kid. He is like this at home a little bit too. I am not sure how to help him find his focus to be successful because I do not really know what he needs for sure. Where would you start? A: I am with you that boys will be boys. Sometimes it is hard to know where to start in situations like the one you described. My first go-to is always going to be my pediatrician first. I think it is important to rule out anything medical before I dive into behavior. That is just something we can cross off the list to be certain. After that, I would talk to the teacher and see what they observe in the classroom. I think there is a fine line between kids playing and maybe needing some extra support to help him focus and be more productive. Of course, that is the ultimate goal for you and the school. Sometimes kids need different things to help them focus. I know some classrooms that have alternate seating options. I have seen the big yoga balls for kids to sit on but at the same time it provides a continuous movement that fills the need of getting out of their seat all the time. I have also seen kids www.OwensboroParent.com
who have Velcro strips in their desk and it helps them focus to be able to touch that strip from time to time. There are many supports in the classroom for kids who just need a little extra support. I hope this helps a little. Q: My 3-year-old daughter is a runner. She likes to run in the parking lot or when we get out of the car. Scares me to death. I feel like I have tried different things but nothing has worked. Now I just do not even like to take her out in public. Help me leave the house?! A: My daughter was a runner too! I feel your pain. When she was that age or even a little younger, I started using the Love and Logic Techniques on her for this very situation. Something that is very
www.OwensboroParent.com
important to remember with this age is they want to make all the decisions and they do not understand why they cannot go where they want to go. What you can do is offer her choices. Many choices. All day long, offer her choices. You have to offer choices that YOU are ok with though. For example, you can say, "Do you want to brush your teeth first or put on your clothes?" This small technique will give her a feeling of control. When you get to wherever you are going you will say, "Do you want mommy to hold your hand or hold your ponytail?" I know how weird that sounds. But I did this with my child and she, being a little sassy, wanted me to hold her ponytail. She thought that was hilarious. I knew if I had her ponytail, she was not going to run from me and at the same time, I was
not hurting her. We walked into Walmart and everyone was staring at us. I just kept going. However, the amazing thing was she did not run from me. She might have been a little embarrassed, but that was ok. And the next time we went, I asked the same question and she said, "Will you hold my hand this time?" That felt like a great accomplishment. It is situations like these that we have to be so careful because our kid's safety is involved. They are too little at that point to really understand the magnitude of what could happen to them.
OP
Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW is a Family Resource Center Coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
15
®
Fall Break
photos from facebook
16 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
®
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
17
®
Fall Break
photos from facebook
18 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
®
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
19
®
Fall Break
photos from facebook
20 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
student spotlight
“
“
Ben Baird is a GREAT kid because he always gives his best no matter what he is doing. He applies himself in school and is one of the select few who made the academic team as a 4th grader. Out of school, he LOVES to compete in jiu jitzu with his team at Gracie Owensboro. He has written multiple poems and essays in class on his love of takedowns and submissions. Ben is an amazing friend and is always going out of his way to make someone feel special. He is an all around GREAT kid. -Gabrielle Yeckering, 4th grade teacher Tamarack Elementary School
Greyson Davis is a fifth grader at Newton Parrish. He was diagnosed with Spina Bifida recently and he is now extremely independent in his self care. He is a really neat kid. He has a twin brother that goes to school at Newton Parrish as well. He continues to work hard in the classroom each and every day and brings a positive attitude. It is also Spina Bifida Awareness Month. -Steve Bratcher, Newton Parrish Principal
”
”
“
Emani Barksdale is a fourth grade student at Estes Elementary School. She is a leader both inside and outside of school. Emani is an excellent role model for others. She is intrinsically goaldriven and sets high expectations for herself. She is in her fourth year serving on the Student Lighthouse Team at Estes. She has interacted with many community members, led school tours and student assemblies, and shared with others what makes Estes a special place. Emani received Distinguished medals for her accomplishments on Kentucky’s state assessment (KPREP) in both reading and math. Outside of school, Emani is on two cheer teams at Cheer Zone. She already has a plan for her amazing future! She plans to attend Howard University to become a pediatrician. She chose this field so she can help kids. We are so grateful Emani is at Estes. She brightens everyone’s day with her contagious smile! - Shari Holzmeyer, Estes Elementary School Principal
”
“
Xander Brubaker is an 8th grade student at Daviess County Middle School. He is a peer mentor and friend to Mrs. McDaniel's Special Needs Students. Xander is joy. He brings our students so much joy and happiness no matter what he is doing with them. He could be helping them with their classwork and they gaze at him with adoration, he could be playing Headbandz with them and they don't realize he is teaching them to take turns and to be kind to their friends. He is a natural when it comes to working with special needs children. He knows just what to say and how to say it to make them feel valued while keeping them in line. Our kids felt loved by Xander and they miss him now that his time with us is over. Xander not only is a phenomenal person, student and peer mentor, he also plays hockey for the Puckhogs, is a member of the Civil Air Patrol, a member of the DCMS/DCHS Archery Team and plays baseball for DCHS. - Kandie McDaniel MMD Unit Teacher at Daviess County Middle School
”
www.OwensboroParent.com
“
Landon Thompson is a 6th grader at Burns Middle School. He has been spotlight bowler of the week twice now for having a new high score. His latest high score is now 172. He is 11 years old and has been bowling for 4 years now. He is very competitive and is always trying to improve his score. He also placed 3rd in his bracket in the City Tournament. - Sherri Boehman, Burns Middle School Registrar
”
“
Sophia Cain, 5th grade, is a student leader in almost everything at Highland Elementary. She is a member of the Student Lighthouse team, Percussion, choir, FCA Leadership, Archery, and peer mentoring. I cannot say enough about Sophia's willingness to work hard academically, but also add so much to our school community. Her musical talents are especially a way that she can add so much life to our school culture! Outside of school she is the lead pitcher and first baseman for Kentucky Venom Girls Fastpitch 12U travel softball team. She can pitch at 50 miles per hour accurately and hit her spots, according to her parents! She plays travel basketball with the Ball Hogs and she plays the mandolin and is a singer/songwriter. - Laura McCain, Highland Elementary School Guidance Counselor
”
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
21
community
on a Mission { by: gail e. kirkland }
22 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
with at-risk students that were at risk to become part of the gang,” Ryan said. That recruitment typically happens at age 12-13. Most of them are from impoverished, broken families. Most have very little family structure; many are orphans. Although boys were once the exclusive target for gang membership, now Ryan estimates that only 6 out of
That truth in Luke 10:2 resounds in the life, the focus,
10 are boys; the rest are girls.
the commitment of the Humphrey family—and they are
answering the call. In December 2018, they will relocate to
by missionaries? “Well, we are not hiding who we are; we
El Salvador as full-time missionaries.
are sharing the Gospel. Gangs in El Salvador, from our
The Humphreys are no strangers to missionary work.
understanding / communication with them, have two ways
During the past ten years, Melissa, 33, and Ryan, 36, along
out of the gang—one is death and the other is what they
with some of their seven children (ages 11 to 2), have
call ‘being devoted to God.’ That means that they leave
travelled to El Salvador in Central America for short-term
their old lifestyle behind. So, if you’re a gang member at
missions, working there 10 days to two weeks each trip.
13, it’s everything you’ve known, your family, and leaving
Yet, how did they decide to become full-time
all that behind to find out something new because you’re
missionaries? “It started about five years ago, and we saw
now devoted to God. So, that is what we are sharing with
the need for someone to engage with gang members (in El
them,” Ryan said.
Salvador). We wanted to share Jesus with them . . . this will
be our targeted group. In the past trips, we were mostly
risk is that all eyes are on them . . . they (the gang members)
www.OwensboroParent.com
Do these gang members know they are being engaged
With that devotion comes risk, incredible risk. “The
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
23
are always around them, and any slip-up of any kind could
the field. So, we will be collaborating, working with other
result in retaliation or death,” Melissa said.
individuals, other organizations that have been there for some
The Humphreys will be working with a Discipleship
time. That includes helping us find housing, assisting us
Module that is obedience-based, with a lot of accountability
getting the kids into school. They will be attending a college-
and support in the process. “So, we are starting a new work.
prep style school there in El Salvador that teaches in English
This is not something that is being done, that we are aware
and teaches Spanish as well. They will be assisting us when
of in El Salvador, really anywhere that we are aware of . . .
we go into Language Studies for the first year; we will be
Our support is Owensboro Christian, as our sending church,
doing a lot of cultural acquisition, learning to live in a new
and we’re connected with a group called Team Expansion
culture, learning about how they live, how Salvadorians live,
(based out of Louisville). They are a sending agency; they
and learning about what it means to live in a new culture, the
equip and send missionaries to lots of different places,” Ryan
different innuendos, things we do not know. We’ve learned
said. “Their purpose is to reach the unreached, the unengaged
to navigate those in our culture relatively easily, because we
people groups,” Melissa said. Team Expansion is a non-
know what they are, we’ve grown up with them,” Ryan said.
profit sending agency; they do not provide financial support.
Both Melissa and Ryan speak a little Spanish, but they hope to
The Humphreys have a team of supportive churches and
become fluent speakers. They know they will be continuously
individuals to help them financially.
learning the culture. They have been through several trainings
So, what will this look like? Where will the Humphreys
that have helped equip them on how to assimilate into a
go? Will they be joining other missionaries? What about their
culture, to learn about it. “The biggest change is that we are
seven children?
adults now and have kids, and we’re trying to train them in
“There are other people in El Salvador that we have
the culture they exist in today. The biggest shift for us is just
built relationships with over the past 10 years that live in El
being consummate learners. So from this point on, we do not
Salvador. They are not with our organization. Most people
know . . . we get to learn. We will always be learning,” Ryan
that work in missions collaborate when they are working in
said.
24 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
How do you come to a life-changing decision like this? It
among those trips, they moved to Kentucky from Pennsylvania.
began with the short-term trips. Then, Ryan said that he felt
On the family trip, Ryan asked, “Could you let us come and
that he wanted more. “I wanted more in the relationship that I
experience life as though we were Salvadorians? We wanted to
had with the people there,” Ryan said. Initially, he did not see
know about the simple things; like, how you do you go buy
himself doing this full-time. About a year later, he told Melissa:
groceries? How do you get from Point A to Point B? What’s
“I think maybe God is changing that in my heart.” Melissa had
the language barrier really like? Is it significant or not? Can we
already been praying about it. She was expecting their fourth
make do with broken Spanish and speak English? What does it
child when they decided to take an exploratory trip in 2011—
feel like to cook there? What do our kids think about it? How
just the two of them—back to El Salvador. They had been on
are they going to react? What about the climate?” Ryan said.
other mission trips to other parts of the world before this. “Our
Melissa interjected that sometimes it’s hotter in Owensboro
heart has always had a part of God’s desire for missions, for
than El Salvador, but the humidity, elevation and pollution are
unreached people, for mission work in general, not just going
all different. Seven million populate the country of El Salvador,
for also sending,” Melissa said.
with 4 million living within the capital city.
The process of collectively coming to a life-changing
“Statistics are saying that 70,000 of the population of the
decision does not always follow simple, straight, congruent
country is gang,” Melissa said. “There’s about a million that
lines. Melissa knew Ryan’s heart was being changed, but Ryan
the gangs control. The gangs control neighborhoods and they
did not want Melissa to feel pressured into making a decision
determine what comes in and out of the neighborhoods,” Ryan
he was feeling led to make. He knew firsthand how unfamiliar
added. “Those are the people that our hearts are going to be
this culture would be to her and the rest of the family. Thus,
focusing on,” Melissa said.
they embarked on a visit to El Salvador together, followed by
Ryan’s solo trip and then a 2012 family trip—including their
deported from the United States were released to the streets,
three oldest girls—which was one of their longer trips. In
since they really did not know what to do with them. This was
www.OwensboroParent.com
In 1992, following a 20-year civil war there, gang members
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
25
an opportune time for gangs to grow and gain strength in political realms, according to Ryan. “The gangs have three words that they live by: Rape. Murder. Control. Those are their motto,” Ryan said. Most of the aggression and control are directed toward fellow Salvadorians, not U.S. citizens. The gangs are called cliques and each has a leader, decentralized, unlike the Mafia. They come across as being civic-minded, as being concerned about the citizens and expect things of the government. Much of the murder is territorial. “The entry into the gang looks something like this: This kid lives in a community that is controlled by a gang. He is approached by a gang member, and is offered shelter, food, clothing and something to do. Typically, they give them like a cell phone, and it starts out with being a scout, sitting out on the street corner, letting them know the police are coming in . . . usually we ask for permission, we always ask for permission actually when we go into a gang community. We ask whoever we know is a contact in that community; sometimes it goes through another missionary who knows someone who lives in there, and we get permission to come in. That’s part of the good thing about them knowing what we are doing is they know why we are there,” Ryan said. The gangs do not try to subvert their presence, since they view missionaries as offering good to the community.
The Humphreys have three primary goals for their
first two years in El Salvador. The first is to become fluent Salvadorian Spanish speakers; the second goal is to have more than a basic understanding of culture, to be able to navigate some of those things well; the third goal involves prayer walks, creating a spiritual map of the city. “We want to find out who is open to the Gospel, who is open to hearing this Good News. We want to go where there are openings. That’s going to determine which communities we enter into, which gangs we begin to interact with,” Ryan said. Each gang needs to be engaged separately, at least in the beginning. Their overall goal is “to communicate the Gospel as peacefully as possible.”
Ryan left the security of a six-figure job to answer God’s
call. They sold everything this past January, including their home, its furnishings and one of two cars. They now live in the Lively Furlough Mission House, owned by Phil and Pat Lambert, a fully-furnished home dedicated to provide affordable housing for those who are involved with mission work. 26 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
“We want our kids to know that our faith is real. I think
within these communities, and we’re really excited to go in
it would be a shame if our kids grew up and left the house and
there and model for the communities and assist them as they
left their relationships with the Lord, because they never saw
have a desire to grow in Christ and obedience to Him. The
their mom and dad live out their faith . . . I believe in doing
watching is a part of encouraging them to go out and find
hard things, and so we teach our kids to do hard things. I
other people that they can model for, that they can assist.
wonder what would it look like if I teach them to do hard
That starts right away, There’s not a gauge in how much
things and I never do them, what is that faith? And is that
knowledge a person has, but a desire to be obedient in what
faith something God wants to duplicate? What kind of faith
they are learning, and that’s a key in being a good disciple and
does God delight in reproducing? So that’s what we believe
a good disciple-maker . . . reproducing what God is telling us
in,” said Ryan, who chose to exchange earthly security for
to reproduce,” Melissa said.
eternal.
So, how long do they expect to be in El Salvador? “We
Although the Humphreys have downsized, they expect to
will leave at some point,” Ryan said. “Our thought is we
downsize even more. When they leave, they plan to only take
will be there as long as it takes. Our vision would be that
what will fit on the plane, less if possible. Each child will get
the gangs would have churches that are self-sustaining and
to take a personal bag and one community suitcase, since two
self-replicating.” These are home churches, not brick and
bags per person are allowed for international travel.
mortar buildings. “Once they become self-governing, self-
reproducing and no longer need us to watch, then we will
The discipleship module which they will be using in
El Salvador has four components: Model, Assist, Watch, Leave. “We know God is preparing them. He has written His truth within their unwritten laws of the gang lifestyle—that ‘devoted to God,’ that’s a ticket. God is preparing a harvest
www.OwensboroParent.com
leave.”
OP
Gail Kirkland recently retired from DCHS, where
she taught journalism and English. She is a mother of twins, a Meme, and sports enthusiast.
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
27
community
{ by: melody ann wallace }
mason on the move
W
e all say we want what’s best for our children and for them to take advantage of every opportunity. But what happens when
those opportunities take them out of the country before they are even old enough to drive?
Mason Thompson, now a 17-year-old junior at Daviess County
High School could easily be labeled a world traveler and she has yet to graduate high school. Over the span of the past three years, Mason has traveled to California, Peru, Thailand, and is now completing a semester study at The Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, New York.
When asked how Mason could possibly come back to a typical
high school day in Owensboro after having such diverse experiences, she was quite honest, “I’m actually really nervous about making the transition back. The creativity and the mindset that they instill here (at the Masters School), I want to bring that back with me to Daviess County.”
Mason’s adventures began was she was in seventh grade and
took the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), scoring well enough to be ranked in the top 99% of the Nation. She said the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation recognized her accomplishments and, in turn, sent her scholarship application paperwork. When Mason’s mother, Kathy, first received the paperwork, she said there was even a moment where she “thought it might be a hoax,” but “we sent it in to see.” From there the process continued to narrow down applicants from 2,000 to 200. Mason was later informed she had been selected as a finalist and was contacted for phone and Skype interviews to help make the final determination. On September 28, 2015, nine months after the process began, Mason was notified that she had been selected as one of the 69 students in the Nation to receive the Young Scholars Scholarship award. As
a
single
mother,
Kathy
Thompson found the scholarship to be an overwhelming blessing and said, “They pay for everything. Her school fees, internet, her laptop,” not to mention up to $40,000 a year for college. Not only is the financial part PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER
covered, but Mason was also assigned
28 OWENSBORO PARENT
an educational advisor, Matthew Keys. “He is my go to for everything,” Mason said. Matthew meets with Mason once a month to work with her on goal setting and her plans for the future.
“I didn’t know what my opportunities were, “ Mason said. Referring
to her current schooling in Dobbs Ferry, New York, “I didn’t know . November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
a semester program was an option.” Not only has Matthew
she has most enjoyed visiting the Bowery Ballroom and the
provided educational support, and arranged for multiple
Metropolitan Museum of Art.
college visits, Mason is also part of a summer program that
involves philanthropy and immersion in diverse cultural
County High School after spending four months in the big
experiences.
city, she said, “I think I’ll be excited to come back and spend
In the summer of 2016, she was able to study photography
time and be with my friends at school. I do look forward to the
in Idyllwild, California, and in 2017 traveled to Peru to assist
spirit of community that we have there, that sense of Panther
in building a school and working on irrigation canals. This
Pride.”
past summer, she had the opportunity to stay with families in
two different villages in Thailand as she learned more about
has deviated a bit, but she still has the same overall goals. If
Buddhism and Thai culture. Mason said, while there, she was
she had her choice of dream schools, which it appears she does,
able to visit Buddhist temples, be blessed by monks, visit an
she would attend Stanford University and major in psychiatry.
elephant sanctuary, and teach English in a nearby school.
Her ultimate goal is to establish a non-profit mental health
clinic that offers services and resources to middle and high
Currently, she is enjoying her semester study in urban
As far as how Mason feels about returning to Daviess
When looking ahead to her future, Mason said her plan
development and the history of New York at The Masters
school age students.
School. Rather than the traditional classroom setting, her
classes are held at different locations throughout the city
there is no telling where Mason’s journey might take her.
If the last three years are any indication of the future, OP
affording her the opportunity to truly experience the rich culture New York has to offer. Mason said, as a small town girl from Owensboro, Kentucky, “it is really different. It’s a lot more fast-paced...I love the city.” An avid cellist, Mason said
www.OwensboroParent.com
Melody Ann Wallace is a sixth grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School that has been writing since she was old enough to hold a crayon, and is currently working on her first novel.
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
29
30 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
{ paid advertorial }
thank you, NICU families! PHOTOS BY SHEILA HOPEWELL
Dear Readers, For just a little while, on September 23, 2018, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital was flooded with 750 NICU graduates and their closest friends and family. We think it’s important to take a moment to say, “Thank you.” Each of the NICU nurses and doctors were so happy to see the children that were once such tiny, little babies blossoming into happy and healthy little people! More than 40 OH team members greeted, hugged, talked with and loved on each of the little peanuts that joined us under the big top on that day. We got to relive a few scary moments through tears and gratitude. We talked about the long days and even longer nights spent in the NICU. Then, we talked about the best days – the ones that were filled with good news and progress – before the best day… the one where you got to hear the magic words: “You can go home!” What these conversations taught us this year, and at each NICU Reunion before, is that the bonds we create in the NICU never break. We, as healthcare providers, live some of life’s scariest and most joyous moments right alongside you and the NICU reunion gives us a chance to celebrate our combined victories every year. As we look forward to next year, it is bittersweet. We know our numbers will www.OwensboroParent.com
continue to grow year-after-year because between those annual reunions there are new families being initiated into the NICU club. We know that we will see heartbreak on the faces of mothers who can’t hold their baby right away. We know that we will see fathers torn between being with their partner or being with their baby as both recover. We also know that we will see great milestones met. We will see mothers and babies look into each other’s eyes as they touch skinto-skin for the first time. We will see fathers who just weren’t sure about this being a dad thing find the strength and courage to hold up a whole family. We will see tubes removed and weight gains achieved. We are the lucky ones. We get to see it all because, as we care for your babies, we witness your lives. We know that we will share hugs, tears and –yes – even laughter as we endure the bad and the good side-by-side with our new families just as we have done for all the families prior. That’s why we want to say, “Thank you.” We so appreciate you coming to our NICU Reunion every year but we also appreciate that you trust us enough to share your family and your life with us, even if it’s just for a little while. We could never ask for more. See you next year! OP
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
31
happy holidays
christmas countdown
The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold
Christmas Stories by Laura Ingalls Wilder
by Maureen Fergus
The Twentyfour days before Christmas
We Believe in Christmas
A Boy Called Christmas
Christmas Trolls
by Karen
by Matt Haig
by Jan Brett
11-year-old
This year,
Kingsbury
by Madeleine L’Engle On Christmas
Nikolas—
decorations
Santa has a problem.
Join the original pioneer girl in
This year, Vicky
we give and get
nicknamed
and
Santa doesn't think
this Little House
Austin's family is
presents, we
“Christmas”—has
presents are
Harold is real. He
chapter book,
preparing for the
sing songs and
received only one
mysteriously
wants to believe
adapted for
birth of a new
we decorate our
toy in his life: a
disappearing,
in Harold. Getting
younger readers
brother or sister.
homes. But what
doll carved out
when Treva
Harold's letters,
from Laura
Vicky is worried that
is Christmas really
of a turnip. But
follows a
eating the cookies
Ingalls Wilder’s
the baby will come
about? Is our
he’s happy with
small creature
he leaves out,
beloved classics.
early—what kind of
happy holiday a
his turnip doll,
making off with
feeding his carrots to
Christmas Eve would
Holy Day?
because it came
the Christmas
the reindeer... what
it be without Mother
from his parents,
pudding. She
would Christmas be
to help them hang
who love him.
discovers two
without that? But
up stockings and
Then one day
trolls who
Santa's just not sure.
sing everyone to
his father goes
want to have
sleep with carols?
missing, and
Christmas,
Nikolas must travel
but don't
to the North Pole
understand it.
to save him.
32 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
What better way to get in the Christmas spirit than to read a classic or new Christmas tale each night leading up to December 25? There are lots of options to make this a special tradition for your family. You can visit Daviess County Public Library and stock up on enough books for the season or you can buy the books (secondhand stores would be ideal for this!) and wrap them up, letting your kiddos unwrap a book each night. This is sure to get them ready for Christmas!
The Nutquacker
The Snowy Day
Humphrey’s First Christmas
Letters from Father Christmas
by Carol Heyer
by J.R.R. Tolkien
captured the
We've all heard the story
Every December an
the old farmer settles
A duck is so
magic and sense
of the three wise men
envelope bearing a
down for a winter's
impatient to
of possibility of the
who brought their gifts
stamp from the North
nap, wondering how
discover the
first snowfall better
to Baby Jesus. But what
Pole would arrive
Christmas can come
farm animals'
than The Snowy
about the camels who
for J.R.R. Tolkien’s
when there is no
secret of
Day. Universal in its
carried them? Here is
children. Inside would
snow! In his dream he
Christmas that
appeal, the story
the story of Humphrey
be a letter in a strange,
imagines a snowstorm
she almost
has become a
the camel and his
spidery handwriting
covering him and his
misses the
favorite of millions,
long, cold journey to
and a beautiful colored
animals—named One,
celebration.
as it reveals a child's
Bethlehem. Humphrey
drawing or painting. The
Two, Three, Four and
wonder at a new
has lost his blanket and
letters were from Father
Five—in a snowy blanket.
world, and the
schemes to acquire
Christmas.
But when the farmer
hope of capturing
a new one. When
awakens, he finds that
and keeping that
the party reaches its
it has really snowed
wonder forever.
destination, Humphrey
outside, and now he
is so drawn to the love
remembers something!
surrounding Baby Jesus
Putting on his red suit,
that he finds himself
he goes outside and
selflessly giving his new
places gifts under the
blanket to the Christ
tree for his animals,
child.
bringing holiday cheer
by Ezra Jack Keats
by Mary Jane Auch
No book has
Dream Snow by Eric Carle It's December 24th, and
to all.
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
33
happy holidays
i’ll never forget that christmas { by: katie albers }
The best part of the Christmas season is not the presents or the food or the festivities, it is the opportunity to recall sweet memories of special days with people that we love.
When Stacy Fulkerson was growing up, the fireplace mantel was the crowning jewel of the Christmas season at her home. Every year her mother would lovingly hang the stockings and greenery to build a festive and special scene, and everyone knew these decorations were to be enjoyed by the eyes not the hands. Well, when Stacy was a mischievous 11-year-old, she was able to find her Christmas presents from hidden around the house, unwrap each one for a peek and close them back up without her mother knowing. At the time, she thought she was being clever, but in the end, Christmas morning was disappointing without the suspense of not knowing what might be in the boxes that she opened. That was when Stacy’s mother’s mantel display brought back the magic. Being trained to not touch the fireplace area, Stacy had not peeked inside the stockings that year, and so Christmas was saved when she found a jewelry surprise in the toe. She would never almost ruin Christmas by peeking again.
34 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
As a boy, every year, Josh Stone would dig through the box of decorations to find his very favorite Christmas ornament. It wasn’t sparkly or large. It didn’t play music or light up. But this simple wooden horse held a special place in his heart. Josh would place it on the tree and then remove it and replace it over and over to find the perfect spot, the perfect lighting for the little orange equine. When he grew up and married, his mother gave him this special ornament to hang on his new family’s tree. Now each December, he takes his wife and kids to choose their own ornaments to represent the special memories of the past year. And, every December, Josh continues to meticulously place and replace his wooden horse in just the right spot on the tree.
For over 20 years, the MacQuarrie family has piled into their red 1988 Isuzu Trooper and driven across the Blue Bridge to Ahren’s Tree Farm to choose and cut a perfectly green Christmas tree Mother, Carole, remembers fondly when her children were young and would play with the farm animals there, petting the sheep, chasing the chickens, and being chased by the guineas. As the years passed, they looked forward to this annual outing and insisted on continuing important details. One year, the Trooper had broken down and was retired to the garage for the winter. But when the trip to Ahren’s Tree Farm started approaching, it was unanimously decided that the trip just wouldn’t be the same in their newer cars. They could not haul home their perfect tree with any other vehicle and so the Trooper had to be fixed in time to go too. Each year a different member of the family has the final say in which tree is chosen, but no matter whose pick, the experience is always special.
www.OwensboroParent.com
One Christmas, Brenda Larson gave her daughters Supergirl pajamas and superhero underwear. Threeyear-old Brianna was so excited about this gift that she hopped behind the couch and immediately put on her new pj’s and undies. Once she reappeared, Brianna raised her arms in the air and jumped with all her might. Her face fell in disappointment as her feet thudded to the floor and she said, “They didn’t work. I didn’t fly!” Later that night, as her father tucked her into bed, Brianna considered, “I’ve got my super pajamas and my super undies. All I need are some super shoes and then I’ll be able to fly!” There is always a glimmer of hope in the magic of Christmas.
www.OwensboroParent.com
When I think about Christmas, my mind immediately goes back to Christmas Eve 2008, at First Presbyterian Church. That night, the room was aglow with the light of a hundred candles. The air was thick with the scent of cinnamon and cloves. And together, we sang, “O Holy night, the stars are brightly shining. It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth.” I can remember caressing my swollen belly as pregnant mothers do. “Long lay the world in sin and error pining till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.” My mind replayed my journey over the past nine months, and I felt rise up an air of expectancy about becoming a new mother. “The thrill of hope. The weary soul rejoices. For yonder breaks, a new and glorious morn!” My first son would be born very soon, and that Christmas, I felt a new, deeper understanding of Mary and her story. “Fall on your knees. Oh hear the angel voices!” The handbells chimed, and like Mary, I treasured these things and pondered them in my heart. “Oh night divine! Oh night, when Christ was born.” I knew that Christmas would never again be the same.
Katie Albers grew up in Owensboro and loved words so much that she became a school librarian and even alphabetized her family: Josh, Katie, Lance, Mallory, Noelle, Oaken, and Polly (the cat).
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
35
happy holidays
Ÿ
Random Acts of Kindness for Christmas
What better way to celebrate the holidays and show your children the real reason for the season than to encourage them to show random acts of kindness? Here is a fun list of ideas for kids of varying ages to do, some with a little help from Mom and Dad. We have even made it easy for you — cut these right out of Owensboro Parent and keep them in a jar. Have your child draw out a random act of kindness each day as you prepare for Christmas.
Ÿ
36 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
Go through your toys and donate ones you don’t play with to a shelter or church nursery.
Take a treat or note to a neighbor or friend who could use a pick-me-up.
Donate food to a local shelter.
Write thank you notes or put together care packages for those who are serving our country in the military.
Donate pet supplies to the Humane Society and go pet some of the animals.
Have a bake sale or fundraiser and donate all the earnings to a local charity.
Help a sibling do a chore or other job.
Go buy inexpensive socks, beanies, and mittens (the Dollar Store has lots of great ones!) and deliver them to a homeless shelter.
Donate books you no longer read or need.
Leave some extra money in the vending machine or even tape it to the outside with a note that says “This treat’s on me!"
Bring breakfast to your school teacher.
Buy a little treat or give a thank you note for the cashier at the grocery store.
Leave a little treat in the mailbox for the mailman.
Tape some money to the gas pump for the next person who gets gas.
Take a treat to the local fire station.
Babysit for a single parent so they can have some alone time or even get some Christmas shopping done.
Fulfill an angel tree request.
Volunteer at church or a local shelter.
Go to a nursing home and visit – take around candy canes and wish them a Merry Christmas.
Invite someone who lives alone over for dinner.
Write grandparents a letter / draw a picture and mail it to them.
For one day, try to pick up at least three pieces of trash wherever you are.
Pay for the person behind you in a fast food drive-through.
Take a treat and/or thank you note to the janitors, librarian or cafeteria workers at your school.
Make a treat and a Christmas card for the school bus driver or crossing guard.
Put together a full Christmas dinner (turkey, potatoes, gravy, rolls, etc) and drop it off at someone’s house who could use it. Ring the doorbell and run away so it’s anonymous.
Donate coloring books to the hospital waiting room.
Sit with someone at lunch that looks lonely or that doesn’t have very many friends.
Offer to take the neighbor's dog for a walk.
Compliment at least 5 people in one day (this is also a great challenge for kids!).
Hold the door open for people behind you.
Do an extra household chore without being asked.
Smile at every single person you see for one whole day.
Make a homemade bird feeder and hang it outside (like a pinecone rolled in peanut butter and birdseed).
Write a thank you note for a teacher or coach or someone who has influenced you and mail it to them.
Tape bags of microwave popcorn to the Redbox rental machine.
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
37
12 happy holidays
days of
christmas in & around obky
2 Santa Claus Land of Lights Family Christmas Light Adventure at Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort The only light show in North America that tells a story,
1
How the Grinch Saved Storytime
Possibly one of kids' favorite holiday characters, the Grinch from Dr. Seuss' famous Christmas story will be a great way to get in the holiday spirit. You are invited to join the Grinch for festive stories and songs at Daviess County Public Library on December 18 at 2 and 6 p.m. The event is for children and their families. Registration is required. For more details, visit dcplibrary.org.
38 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
Santa Claus Land of Lights the adventure of how Rudolph learned to fly and eventually led Santa’s sleigh on that foggy Christmas Eve. Located in Santa Claus, Indiana, the 1.2 mile drive is lit with over 300 light displays, some 30 ft. tall and over 100 ft. wide. In its 10th year, this custom outdoor light show was enjoyed by approximately 40,000 guests in 2017, a record year for attendance. Every vehicle receives a free photo with Rudolph! The display opens Thanksgiving night and then Nov. 23 - Dec. 9 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights); Dec. 14 – Dec. 30 nightly (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) from 5 – 9 p.m. View complete operating schedule online at SantaClausLandofLights.com.
www.OwensboroParent.com
3 OWENSBORO MUSEUM OF FINE ART HOLIDAY FOREST FESTIVAL OF TREES Children of all ages will enjoy the monumental tree displays at OMFA — 15 in all! This year’s theme is “A Bluegrass Christmas,” which each tree will complement. The festival opens Nov. 11 and runs through Dec. 31. Museum admission for adults is $3 and children is $2.
5 HOLID AY ST RO LL Nothing says Christmas in Owensboro more than the annual Holiday Stroll. Families flock downtown for the lighting of the Christmas tree in Smothers Park, local shopping, caroling and a kid favorite -- the Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt. The Holiday Stroll will be from 3 - 6 p.m. on December 1. See full details on the City of Owensboro Facebook page.
4 Care Net Annual 5K Reindeer Run/Walk
This December 1 event is open to runners and walkers of all types. Families welcome! Work groups/teams welcome! School teams welcomed! Participants are encouraged to come dressed in Christmas attire — ugly sweaters, Santa hats, bells, fun socks, etc. Prizes will be awarded to best dressed and various race winner divisions. Visit with Santa, enjoy hot chocolate and win prizes as Care Net helps Owensboro kick off the Christmas season. Entry fee of $25 includes a long sleeve t-shirt and entry for door prize drawings. Family discounts available. Some restrictions apply. Visit RunSignUp.com for registration details.
7 Hilltop Tree Farm If your family wants to opt for a real Christmas tree this year, you must visit Hilltop Tree Farm. They have already cut trees or families can go out and cut their own tree -- they even provide the saws. They will open the Friday after Thanksgiving, but act fast -- they were sold out by December 4 last year!
www.OwensboroParent.com
6 The Reindeer Experience at OMSH
Your child will love to meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and Prancer at Owensboro Museum of Science and History on Saturday December 1. Stop by the museum between the hours of 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 4 - 7 p.m. Your family can even meet Prancer's companion, a miniature horse for the children to pet. Be sure to bring your phones and cameras to take photos! Cost: Normal museum admission from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. with the reindeer experience included in admission. Between 4 - 7 p.m. during Holiday Stroll cost is $5 for the Reindeer Experience, but no museum admission is charged. You won't want to miss this opportunity -- last year 800 people came to OMSH for the Reindeer Experience.
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
39
10
A Very Merry Holiday Pops
A Very Merry Holiday Pops! returns with an all-new concert featuring holiday favorites, timeless classics, fresh new works, majestic choral music with the
8
Owensboro Symphony Chorus and a sing-along to familiar carols. Come hear all your favorites on December 15 at RiverPark Center. From Sleigh Ride to The Polar Express, it’s one of Owensboro’s most festive holiday events for the entire family!
PA N T HER C R EEK PARK
Enjoy over 100 displays and 500,000 lights as you drive through Panther Creek Park located at 5160 Wayne Bridge Road. Christmas at Panther Creek is open nightly, Friday, Nov. 23, 2018 through Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019, from 6 to 9 p.m. Cost is only $3 per vehicle and will support five Daviess County non-profits. Wagon rides are available nightly.
11 CHA RLIE B ROWN CHRISTMAS LIV E Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the all-new touring production A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately
9 Christmas Parade There is no better way to kick off the Christmas season than with this community tradition. The theme for this year’s parade is “Our Christmas Wish” and is set to float through downtown Owensboro on November 17. With an expected 120 floats and other entries, the 82nd annual Owensboro-Daviess County Christmas Parade is the first and largest Christmas parade in the tristate area. The reigning Miss Kentucky Katie Bouchard will serve as Grand Marshal of the parade. Why not two parades? The Whitesville Christmas Parade is Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Whitesville. 40 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
learn the true meaning of the season. A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage is a present the whole family can enjoy! Mark your calendars -- this event will be the perfect start to Christmas break.
12 THE NU TCRAC K E R
Audience members of all ages will find the joy of Christmas through the beauty of music and dance with "The Nutcracker," based on E. F. Hoffman's tale. Owensboro Dance Theatre is still bringing new and innovating tricks and technology to the stage on December 1 in RiverPark Center’s Cannon Hall. The audience will enter Marie's dream, experiencing all the magic and wonder with a flying bed, levitating Arabian dancer, and more with special flying effects from ZFX. Owensboro Dance Theatre’s original version is unlike any other, with dance forms including: ballet, jazz, and tap. Audiences will be thrilled by the expertise, grace, and beauty of several professional dancers from across the country, over 150 community members, as well as ODT Company and Apprentice Company. www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
41
happy holidays
your elf on the shelf can be more
nice than naughty { by: ashley sorce }
PHOTO BY TAYLOR WEST
42 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
OK, parents… raise of hands… does your Elf on the Shelf's crazy antics drive you crazy?! While my kids count down the days that Zippy returns to our house, I have come to dread it. Cleaning up after that elf is just one more thing to add to my never-ending holiday to-do list. And heaven knows Zippy gets into some elaborate mischief. In previous years Zippy has taken a bubble bath in marshmallows, drank syrup in the kitchen pantry, zip lined across the living room, and toilet papered the Christmas tree… just to name a few. Last year though, that crazy elf actually decided to try something different. My daughter had a loose tooth that she refused to pull. It was ready to come out, but she just wouldn't pull it. Zippy gave her a little encouragement to pull the tooth in order to hand it over to his friend, the Tooth Fairy. And my son was struggling with potty training. Zippy gave him some tips on all things #2 — think chocolate chips and a doll house potty. And while Zippy made some typical arrivals each day, like doodling on our framed pictures with a marker, he also taught my kids about kindness and the spirit of giving. One night Zippy left a giant cardboard box in the middle of our living room with a note to fill it with old toys that my kids didn't use anymore. He said once the box was full, he would take it to kids that didn’t have fun toys to play with. I figured this request would be met with sadness over giving away not often used, but seemingly prized possessions or arguments over who had to give away more. But I was shocked. Both kids loved the idea. Avery, my then 6-year-old daughter, couldn’t wait to fill up the box and wanted to start sorting through toys immediately. Reed, then 2, was a little more hesitant, but saw the excitement from his big sis and quickly jumped on board. He even learned a new word from the process: donate. The kids enjoyed the lesson so much that they filled not one box, not two, not even three… EIGHT boxes sat in my living room, heaping with toys, clothes, shoes, coats and more
www.OwensboroParent.com
that were all donated to Oasis Women’s Shelter. So this season, I encourage you to have a private talk with your elf about possibly changing his or her routine. Yes, the Facebook posts and Pinterest pins of elves doing funny things are great. I’m not saying for your elf to take away the fun spirit the tradition. But I do think you could take this opportunity to talk to your elf about implementing a few lessons on kindness and how important it is to have a giving heart. Here are some suggestions to offer your Elf on the Shelf: 1 Your elf can leave out fun new stationary and markers for your kids to make notes for family members that live out of town.
2
We’ve all seen the elf making a snow angel out of flour or powdered sugar. You can do this, but also set out all ingredients to make cookies, brownies or other yummy treats. Package them up and deliver to neighbors.
3
The elf can have a jar filled with pieces of paper that say things about your child that makes them special. Leave instructions for your child to do the same thing and give to someone they love.
4
The elf can spill a bag of pet food, but include a gift card to a pet store. Encourage your child to use the gift card to purchase food for the animal shelter or humane society.
5
Your elf can read a book and leave all the material to for your kids to design their own book marks. Then take the book marks to the library and hide them inside of books on the shelf for the next reader to find and keep.
Ashley Sorce is the editor of Owensboro Parent and Owensboro Times. She enjoys everyday adventures with daughter Avery (7), and son, Reed (3).
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
43
happy holidays
christmas away from
home { by: danelle young }
T
here once was a pretty girl named Jadviga
for women in America. She wanted to go. She told
who lived in Poland during the turn of the
her friends at work about it, and four of them plotted
20th century. She was the first born of four
and planned with Jadviga to set sail for the land of
children. Her mother died at an early age, and so for
promise. Her father sadly supported her decision
a while, Jadviga helped care for her younger siblings.
to leave because he loved her and wanted more for
Her father eventually remarried. As a teenager, she
her. A few months later at the age of 17, Jadviga
enjoyed going to school during the winter months,
found herself on the deck of a ship approaching
but when the weather turned warmer, she along
Ellis Island. She and her girlfriends looked at Lady
with other girls, worked in fields across the border
Liberty with hopeful hearts. They had done it! There
in Germany. Her job was about a day's journey from
was no turning back now. She'd spent most of her
home, so Jadviga lived in Germany during that part
savings on her one-way ticket here. Hopefully, her
of the year. She learned how to speak German and
documentation would be sufficient for entry.
worked hard to earn money for herself and her family.
However, the situation there was not good.
immigrants entered the United States through New
Workers were often mistreated, but she did not want
York. Jadviga was one of them. She made it through
to burden her father with another mouth to feed
the checkpoint at Ellis Island, showing satisfactory
when she was capable of supporting herself. She
proof of her ability to take care of herself, along with
dreamed of a better life, thanks to her aunts who lived
the addresses of her relatives in Pittsburg. She would
in Pittsburg. They wrote Jadviga about opportunities
start her new life there. Jadviga's leap of faith proved
44 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
Between 1886 and 1924, nearly 14 million
www.OwensboroParent.com
to be the right decision. She found work that was more
give her credit for keeping a few toys handy. When visiting
to her liking. To assimilate into Pittsburg society, Jadviga
her home, I always went for her Etch A Sketch, at which
thought it best to change her name. She chose something
point my attention diverted from the adults' conversation
short and sweet - Edna. There were a good many people in
to twisting knobs. I wish I could go back in time and talk
Pittsburg at that time, who had moved from eastern Europe
to her. Imagine the stories she could tell!
to work, including other Poles. As of 1910, Pittsburgh had
become the eighth largest city in the United States, and 26
return to Poland to visit her family for fear of the political
percent of its population was foreign-born. Edna arrived
situation there. She worried that if she went back to visit
in 1911.
her family, she might not be able to return to her husband
Within five years, she met and married a Ukrainian
and children. Poland was certainly no place to be during
man named Onek. He worked at one of the steel mills
World Wars I and II, and after WWII, the Soviet Union
there. After they were married, Onek and Edna decided
instituted a Communist government there. Ironically,
they did not want to raise a family in the city. He and
Edna passed away shortly before the collapse of the
his brother had friends who farmed in eastern Ohio, so
Communist party in 1989.
they moved in that direction to look for land. The families
settled near each other outside of Zanesville, Ohio. Edna
neighboring refugees living in Owensboro and how
and Onek had seven children - four boys and three girls.
they are unable to visit the family they've left behind.
Their fourth child, Helen, is my grandmother.
A few years ago, I felt called to volunteer at our local
I remember Edna. Our lives overlapped by eight years.
International Center. That led to an interim position there,
She spoke English, but with a strong Polish accent. It was
during which I learned about the resettlement process for
hard for me to understand what she was saying, but I did
refugees moving to our city. A refugee is a person who
www.OwensboroParent.com
I was sad when I learned that she was never able to
My great grandmother’s story makes me think about
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
45
happy holidays
has been forced to flee his or her country because
out to our neighbors. If you know of someone who
of persecution, war or violence. He or she is unable
will be away from family this Christmas, I encourage
to return to their country, owing to a well-founded
you to reach out to them in some way this holiday
fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion,
season. I now volunteer for The Welcome Project, an
nationality, political opinion or membership in a
Owensboro faith-based nonprofit that helps groups
particular social group.
from local churches welcome the refugees coming to
our town. For more information, see twpowb.org.
Are you familiar with the sequel to the Christmas
story? It's about Joseph, Mary, and Jesus living as
refugees in Egypt (Matthew 2:13-23). After the
me. Earlier this year, my husband Kevin and I had
three wise men presented Jesus with gifts of gold,
the opportunity to go to Poland and meet some of
frankincense and myrrh, they were warned in a
my extended family. To my knowledge, I am the first
dream not to tell King Herod the whereabouts of the
of Edna's descendants to see her homeland. It was
child because Herod intended to kill Jesus. The king
a dream come true for me. My grandma Helen was
considered Jesus a threat to his throne. An angel
equally excited, and told me, "If only my mother were
of the Lord then appeared to Joseph and said, "Get
here to witness this!" It was a wonderful trip. Our
up and take the child and his mother and escape to
relatives were terrific tour guides. We meandered
Egypt."
through the medieval city of Krakรณw, visited the
somber site of Auschwitz-Birkenau (former Nazi
Christmas is the perfect time of year to reach
46 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
This Christmas will be special for my family and
www.OwensboroParent.com
concentration and extermination camp), and walked through the artistic undergrounds of the incredible Wieliczka Salt Mine.
Kevin and I aren't Owensboro natives.
As you might guess, I grew up in Ohio, and Kevin is from Greenville, South Carolina. Kevin's work brought us here in 2011. We love living here - the only difficult part is being a good distance away from our families. However, we are grateful for people who make us feel at home in Owensboro, and for the ability to travel to Ohio and South Carolina several times a year. We don't take that luxury for granted.
OP
Danelle Young is employed part time at Edward Jones. She and husband Kevin have one son, Maverick. Danelle enjoys reading, writing, and traveling.
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
47
happy holidays
A
round Thanksgiving each year, I find myself browsing Pinterest and looking at beautiful Christmas trees covered
in bows and glass ornaments. Adorable little trains run on tracks under the beautiful trees. Tall soldiers stand on either side of the fireplace. Garlands hang from the staircases and everything is magical in its glow. I think about how I could make my house look like that. It couldn’t be that hard, right?
Then I look up from my phone and reality sets in. My living
room has about 37 toys scattered across the floor. I can’t see the top of the coffee table because it is littered with Pete the Cat books and finger paintings. Everything and anything that is breakable or that can be put in the mouth of a 1-year-old has been moved to the highest shelf. I look like I live in a preschool classroom without the laminated calendar on the wall.
I have two little boys, Simon, 1, and Henry, 4. They are the
lights of my life and Christmas with them is going to be so fun this year.
But I have also learned that Christmas with small children,
especially two rambunctious little boys, means destruction.
When Henry was 1, I was so excited to get out my Christmas
tree, decorate it with my beautiful ornaments and have him help me carefully place them all on the tree. It was going to be such a fun family tradition. I was even going to play Christmas music.
Let’s just say that it ended up being a complete and total
disaster.
First, don’t give your 1-year-old anything with a hook on it. I
know, I know. This should be common sense.
Second, when you hand a 1-year-old a beautiful glittery
ornament made of glass, they will get so excited that they will
Decorating for Christmas with Kids { by: jamie roby johnson }
48 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
squeeze it until it breaks into tiny little pieces.
Third, if the ornament does make it on the tree, your child
will most likely put it on the same branch as the last six ornaments they hung and refuse to put it anywhere else. The branch will be so weighed down by all the ornaments, they will slowly drop to the floor and shatter.
That was the year I invested in my first extremely ugly set
of shatter-proof Christmas ornaments. My pretty glass ornaments that have not been destroyed are in the basement, waiting for the day my boys turn 18.
I have also learned that no ornaments can be placed anywhere
on the bottom half of the tree – shatterproof or not. They will be grabbed and launched across the room. My dog is terrified of a www.OwensboroParent.com
toddler with a Christmas ornament.
This also means we can’t put lights on the bottom half
tree with glass ornaments covering the entire tree. I will be
of the tree. Toddlers love to pull a cord, and when they do,
able to set out my freshly wrapped Christmas presents two
the tree comes down with it. This year, I am considering just
weeks before Christmas without having to worry about a
putting a tiny fence around the tree so I can have a fully lit
sweaty-handed toddler ripping them open.
tree again.
And you can’t put presents under the tree for other
Christmas morning, opening up their presents with pure and
family members without sitting down and explaining to your
utter delight. And that is one thing that makes my heart so
toddler that, no, Santa has not come yet and those presents
full.
are not for him. I made that mistake a couple years ago and
woke up one morning to a disappointed toddler sitting in a
I have to. I will only wrap the top half of my tree with lights.
pile of wrapping paper with a gift card from Pier 1 for my
I won’t set out any presents until Christmas Day. Because
mom and some makeup for my sister.
I dread the day that my little boys grow up and Christmas
morning just isn’t the same.
And even if you do sit your toddler down and explain to
One day, I will have my beautifully decorated Christmas
But that also means I won’t have two sweet boys on
So I will keep buying shatterproof ornaments as long as
OP
them that those presents aren’t his, they might just become overwhelmed with joy at the sight of wrapping paper and go to town anyway.
We now store all presents on the top shelf of a closet
until Christmas Day.
Aaron & Sarah Adkins, Carol Adkins, Ray Austin, Robert & Theresa Bahnick, Chris Baird, Mike Baker, Michael G. Ballard, Linda Beam, Colleen Berry, Ray & Nelda Best, John & Lauren Bickel, Dwaine & Ruth Blakeman, Brittney Brown, Malcolm & Sally Bryant, John Bryenton, Daniel & Melissa Burlew II, Ladona Burns, Allan Burton, Bruce & Charlotte Burton, Jennifer Busse, Keith & Shirley Cain, Gary & Shirley Cecil, Mary Cecil, Laura & Titus Chapman, Amy Chifici, Noel & Brenda Clayton, John & Beth Clements, Lee & Julia Clore, Mike Coakley, Greg & Terri Coke, Larry & Rosemary Conder, John & Adrianne Condray, Donald & Janice Crask, Starla & Ro Cravens, Leigh Ann Crume, Jean Day, Janet Ebelhar, Kathy Edge, Joyce Edwards, David & Rebecca Eggers, Barbara Embrey, Regina Emmick, Alan & Rebbeca Englehart, Lance & Ashley Evans-Smith, Rachael Faulkner, Brittany Fergason, Kent and Lisa Filbeck, Jane K Fisher , Clay & Diane Ford, Rick & Gwinna Freeman, Vince & Joan Frey, Janet Gabbert, Lyzette Galloway, W. Greg Garrard, Max Garvin, Robin Gaynor, Brandon & Emily Gentry, John & Sherry Gillians, May Gipe, Bob & Holly Glenn, Desaray Goetz, Keith & Connie Goodman, Cindy Goodrid, Carl & Molly Greenwell, Debbie Gum, John & Alisa Hagan, Heidi Hagerman, Jordan Hall, Tina Hamilton, Carolyn Hamlet, Angela Hamric, Jeff & Sherrie Harris, Bill & Nancy Harrison, Chris & Mary Havelda, Sherry Hazelwood, Pasty Helton, Kevin Hembree-Brown, Steve Henning, Cindy Henshaw, Joseph & Pam Higdon, Rick & Julie Hobgood, Dr. & Mrs Carroll Howard, Sarah Howard, Phil & Mary Beth Hurley, Lisa Hyland, Scott & Carmen Jagoe, Ed & Pam Janoski, Katie Janoski, Maureen Jones, Chris & Stacey Joslin, Jean Julius, Kirk & Dianne Kirkpatrick, Joe Kline, Mike & Donna Koger, Daniel Kuthy, William & Janet Kuegel, Jr., Pat Lambert, Emma Latta, Debra & David Lewis, Jane Lovecamp, Heather Lyon, Larry & Tammy Maglinger, E. Phillips Malone, Mahendar & Nalini Maru, Ruth Matthews, Jess & Nora Mattingly, Tonya Mauzy, Cindy May, Gregory & Leah McCarty, Heather McCarty, Elsie McDivitt, Rachael McFadden, Sherri McGary Pearson, Grace McIntosh, Vivian McNatton, Cathie & Jeb Medley, John & Mary Medley, Abbie Mercer, Lindy & Abby Mercer, Joelina Merritt, Barry & Christi Midkiff, Nancy Mollett, Doug & Marsha Moore, Keith & Tricia Moore, Amy Morris,
www.OwensboroParent.com
Jamie Johnson is a full-time working mom to two little boys, wife to Logan, and part-time writer. Her pieces have been featured in HuffPost Parents, Motherly, Today Parents and PopSugar Moms. You can follow her blog at HashtagMomFail.com!
Beth Moser, Sue Napper, Tracy Naylor & Jason Cox, Claire R. Neal, Amy Oats, Wanda Oldham, Morgan & Kathy Palmiter, Karen Pannell, Janet Paris, Cheryl & Ed Parker, Leslie & Ed Pearson, Scott & Sheri Plain, Dattatraya & Rita Prajapati, Mary Quader, Bill & Kathryn Raymer, Billy & Kathy Reid, Allen Holbrook & Forrest Roberts, Sally Reynolds, Mindy Roberts, David L Ross, Donna Tate & Kristi Roe, Donna Ross, Janet Rowland, Mary Ruby, David & Betsy Russell, Veena Sallan, Joe & Charlene Salpietra, Deanna Sanderfur, Gerald & Olivia Saunders, Michael & Janice Scherm, Wendy Schienbein, Mary Lou Semien, Lior Shamai, Daniel Sharp, Maria Shyver, Kathi Skidd, Brian & Janice Smith, Ashley Smith Baird, Antoine & Jeremiah Smith-Rouse, Dean & Doris Stanley, Madison & Marni Strobel, Ronald Sullivan, Mike Teasley, Al & Molly Thompson, Robert B. Tincher, Iryna Tincher, Michael & Gayla Vanover, Mercedez Varble, Jay & Lyn Velotta, Kishor Vora, Marcia Waddington, Gary & Linda Wahl, Allen Walker, Debby & Mike Ward, Andrew & Jeanette Ward, Kelsey Washburn, Tammy Wedding, Jack Wells, Robert Whitaker, Sandy Whitehouse, Bob & Cindy Whitmer, Thomas Wieder, Wil Wigginton, Mary Shawnee Williams, Theresa Wills, Sheila Wilson, Jessica Wimsatt, Tina Wolken, Sally Wood, Chelsee Woodey, Air Hydro Power Inc, Aleris, Alexander & Company CPAS PSC, Atmos Energy, Be Real Sports LLC., BJ Killian Foundation, Brook & Bay Goldendoodles, Courier Express, Custom Audio Video, Daviess County Fiscal Court, Domtar Paper Company, Durall Wedding Orthodontics, EM Ford, Express Pro Employment, Fairway Mortgage, Famous Bistro, First Security Bank, Greater Owensboro Realtor Association, Hager Educational Foundation, Independence Bank, J’s Liquors, Jagoe Homes, JTW Executives Inc, Kenergy, Kentucky Legend, Kuegel Farms LLC, Owensboro Grain, Kurtz Auction & Realty, Owensboro Health, People Placer, Public Life Foundation of Owensboro, Radiology Partners, Reid’s Orchard, Southern Star, Specialty Food Group, Stuart Anderson, Swedish Match, Texas Gas, Ursuline Sisters, US Bank
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
49
50 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
{ paid advertorial }
ymca offers winter activities
A
s the weather turns cold and the business of summer
Parents Night Out will be November 17. Drop your child off
and fall come to a close, your family may be looking
and enjoy the night, while your child stays active with other
for things to do this winter. The Owensboro YMCA
kids under professional supervision.
has a full list of programming this season. And during a season when finances can be tight, membership to the YMCA is affordable and members pay half the price of each of the programs that a non-member would pay. Schedule a tour with someone from registration today, where you can check out the facility. You must see the newly renovated pool at the Family Branch! Find Owensboro YMCA on Facebook for up-to-date information on events and promotions.
Youth Wrestling begins January 8 and runs through March
28 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Youth Basketball and Youth Soccer TBD for 2019
Couch to 5K Race in January, date TBD.
Parent Tot Swim Lessons Parents and children participate
Swing Dance class will be available in the future, with classes
in a four-lesson course where parents are shown the
coming up soon. Learn from one of the areas best dancers,
fundamentals of how to teach their children to feel safe and
Dancing with Our Stars Owensboro Champion, Phillip Page.
secure in the water. Tots will begin to learn basic water skills
This is a 6-week program. The cost is $80. YMCA members
such as kicking, reaching, pulling, floating, and bobbing. For
only pay $60 for this program.
ages 6 months - 3 years. This is a 4-week long program that meets Saturdays from 8:30 - 9 a.m. at the Family Branch. Group Swim Lessons The next session is November 27 -
December 20. Private Swim Lessons also available. Aquacise A slow paced water aerobics class, geared to help
joint mobility and flexibility. Weekly classes at the Family
Zumba Learn Latin and fitness moves in this grooving dance
exercise class, which meets Tuesdays from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. at the Athenian Branch. Hot Yoga Express Crank up the heat! For 45 minutes enjoy
the experience of yoga in 85- to 102-degree temperatures. This class meets Wednesdays from 7:15 to 8 a.m. at the Athenian Branch.
Branch. Family Zumba Bring the entire family to this upbeat dance Dance and Tumble This program starts November 6 and
and fitness class -- no experience required. The class meets
runs every Tuesday through December 18.
from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Family Branch.
www.OwensboroParent.com
OP
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
51
52 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Owensboro has a variety of specialty and one-of-akind businesses with unique gifts, services, apparel, home furnishings and more. Get away from the massproduced items found online and at big box stores this holiday season and support the small businesses that support our community. Shop, think and love local this year and find your loved ones a gift as unique as Owensboro.
www.OwensboroParent.com
Advertisers: ROBIN'S RESALE & BOUTIQUE STUDIO SLANT THE WILLOW TREE HILL VIEW FARMS ALL ABOUT YOU SALON & SPA
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
53
Robin's ReSale & Boutique 2416 New Hartford Rd, Owensboro, KY 42303
As a small business owner, why is Shop Local day important to you? Because it brings awareness to all of the great local small businesses that provide personalized service! It’s also a great day to meet new customers and see all of the customers that have been with us over the years.
What is one new item you are carrying this Holiday Season? New variety of Boutique clothing and accessories!
What is an item you recommend for moms? Customized shirts, tees, hats, etc and as always Gift Certificates! Our new Boutique section is always a customer favorite as well!
Studio Slant 624 Emory Dr, Owensboro, KY 42301
As a small business owner, why is Shop Local day important to you? Each year shop local is a day to celebrate all the entrepreneurs who make a town worth living in. It’s a the one day a year where the community comes together and celebrates the individuality and spirit of the people who choose to live here. We love seeing all the smiling faces and showing off all the fun we have at Studio Slant.
What is one new item you are carrying this Holiday Season? We are so excited to be offering Happy Everything and Coton Colors this year. You may already be a collector or just starting out and we have all the pieces to help you have a “Happy Everything”!
What is an item you recommend for moms? Moms are the best and should be celebrated as much as possible! Everyone needs a bag made just for them. Come pick out all the details for that perfect one of a kind Barrington bag because the thoughtfulness of any gift always lies in the details.
54 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
The Willow Tree 3121 Commonwealth Ct, Owensboro, KY 42303
As a small business owner, why is Shop Local day important to you? Most small businesses in our community carry different items big box stores do not. Our community would rather help their own community rather than somewhere else.
What is one new item you are carrying this Holiday Season? The Willow Tree is excited to offer Jason Stoddard jewelry designs, which is inspired by the ancient art of wire wrapping. Stoddard uses precious and semi-precious gemstones mixed with gold and sterling silver.
What is an item you recommend for moms? Every woman is different so we would like to think we have plenty of different items to choose from to please them such as jewelry, body lotions, home decor, linens and much more.
Hill View Farms 5024 Lee Rudy Rd, Owensboro, KY 42301
As a small business owner, why is Shop Local day important to you? Shop local day is important because it celebrates and promotes all the things that help make Owensboro such a unique and awesome place to live and shop.
What is one new item you are carrying this Holiday Season? There are so many its hard to choose just one! Come check them all out!
What is an item you recommend for moms? Cinnamon Honey, its over the top delicious but its something the whole family can enjoy too.
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
55
All About You Salon & Spa 603 Salem Dr, Owensboro, KY 42303
As a small business owner, why is Shop Local day important to you? It improves our local economy. It allows the community to know the people behind the product or services. Offers more opportunity for better customer servicea more personalized service is offered and many times, a better quality of product that is locally made.
What is one new item you are carrying this Holiday Season? USmooth Hair Care
What is an item you recommend for moms? Our Spa package, hands down is the best gift for mom! Gift cards are also a great gift, which are universal for any product or service in the salon.
5 REASONS TO
Shop Local
this Holiday Season 1 Stuck on a
2 Find your
3 When you
4
Enjoy a more
5
Local non-
gift idea?
loved ones
buy local,
low-key
profits enjoy
Benefit from a
a unique,
you’re
shopping
more support
local retailer’s
personalized
supporting
environment,
from local
expertise, saving
gift you can’t
the business
avoiding
businesses than
you time and
find at a big
owner’s
long lines
those based
worry.
box store.
dream and
and cranky
outside the
their family.
cashiers.
community.
56 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
57
58 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
59
Health & Wellness
60 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
{ paid advertorial }
Dentistry... done differently Valerie Warren, DMD
T
he true value of a smile is immeasurable!
Smiling causes your brain to reduce stress-
going to the dentist, my experience with Dr.
causing hormones as well as increasing those
Warren and her whole team has been exceptional.
hormones that make you happy! Smiling also
From cleanings to treatment, I’ve felt very well
reduces aggression, increases your immune system
cared for and listened to, which was important to
and lowers your blood pressure. No matter where
me. I no longer hate going to the dentist,” says
you are in the world, what language you speak or
Heather, a patient of 15 years.
your social status, a smile is a universal language
that is always understood!
every patient to achieve their goals is a fundamental
principle for Dr. Valerie Warren. “Nothing is more
Serving Owensboro for 18 years, Dr. Valerie
Warren knows how valuable your smile is. With that knowledge, Dr. Warren has developed a reputation for creating beautiful smiles. She has pursued hundreds of hours of advanced training in the area of smile design, full mouth rehabilitation, and dental implants to help people achieve the smile and function they deserve.
Dr. Warren also appreciates that some patients
have fear or anxiety about visiting a dentist. So she and her staff strive to create a “Different kind of dental experience” - one in which her patients
“As a patient with very high anxiety about
Customizing and individualizing treatment for
rewarding than helping a patient find confidence by establishing a smile that fits them and unveils their true inner personality. Commonly patients come to me with challenges that include missing teeth, discolored teeth, crooked teeth, inability to eat what they want, and unsightly worn or chipped teeth. I am blessed to have the knowledge and insight on how to restore my patients to optimal health,” says Dr. Warren.
Dr. Warren provides a lifetime of smiles, from
school age to retirement. Her dedication to your family’s health and well-being is why she became a
are treated like family, and pampered with warm
dentist. “I knew I wanted to make a difference, and
towels, pillows and blankets, all in a brand new
dentistry allows me to do that in a big way.”
state of the art dental office equipped with the
highest level technology. They are committed
for 40 years. She and her husband have three sons,
to using the top of the line materials, the best
Stephen, Hayden and Nolan. “Owensboro is our
partnering labs in the country, and overall are
treasured home, and I’m privileged to care for the
committed to providing healthy, beautiful smiles
community and so honored when they choose me
to all of their patients.
and my team for their dentistry.”
www.OwensboroParent.com
Dr. Warren has been an Owensboro resident
OP
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
61
discover
Rich & Creamy hot chocolate { photos and recipe by: jamie alexander }
Whether it’s a chilly autumn afternoon or a cold winter night, it doesn’t get better than drinking chocolate. While I’m all for the convenience of store-bought cocoa packages for a quick cocoa fix, once in a while it’s nice to splurge on some rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate. If you have a little extra time one night for a tasty treat, give it a try and see which one you prefer!
autumn
Are you sick of EVERYTHING pumpkin spice? This salted caramel hot chocolate is the perfect transitional drink to take you from fall to winter. INGREDIENTS: 1 1 cup heavy cream 2 2 cups milk 3 1 cup bittersweet chocolate (chopped or chips) 4 2 tbsp sugar 5 Salted Caramel Sauce (to taste) RECIPE: 1 Dissolve the sugar in a small saucepan of milk & cream over medium heat until the sides start to bubble
62 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
2 Melt the chocolate by microwaving and stirring in 30-second intervals. 3 Turn the heat off the milk and whisk in the melted chocolate mixture 4 Whisk in salted caramel sauce to taste 5 Top with your favorite garnish (including more caramel sauce)! Salted caramel sauce: Heat 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of water in large saucepan on high. Stir constantly until boiling mixture reaches an amber color (be careful, it burns quickly after this color!). Remove from heat and slowly whisk in 2/3 cup of room-temperature heavy whipping cream. Once that’s incorporated, mix in 4 tablespoons of butter, then 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then salt (preferably fleur de sel or other finishing salt) to taste.
www.OwensboroParent.com
winter
Peppermint is a classic when it comes to winter flavors. To add a “twist” to this hot chocolate, try adding some frozen whipped topping cut into winter shapes! INGREDIENTS: (Use ingredients 1-4 from salted caramel hot chocolate) 5 2 drops peppermint extract 6 1/8 teaspoon of salt RECIPE: (Follow steps 1-3 for the salted caramel hot chocolate.) 4 Whisk in 2 drops of peppermint extract and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. 5 To make your hot chocolate extra sweet, stir it with a candy cane before garnishing with your favorite toppings. Whipped Topping Shapes: Mix 1/4 cup of water with a tub of cool whip. Spread the whip into an even layer on top of wax paper (about 1/2 to 1 inch thick). Freeze several hours or overnight. Once frozen, cut out shapes with cookie cutters (work quickly - these melt fast!) OP
Jamie Alexander Jamie Alexander is a nationally-published portrait and commercial photographer, Tanner Publishing Co. staff photographer, and owner of JAA Studios. She is also a recipe developer and blogger for “Lavender and Lenses” - a blog focused on healthy recipes and international travel. Follow her culinary instagram at @lavenderandlenses
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
63
64 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
discover
the perfect
turkey? { by: danny may }
W
hat’s better than setting a perfectly browned holiday turkey at the center of a table full of
family and friends you love, the warm aroma filling the
house as chatter and clattering dishes subside for the ceremonial carving.
I’m
gonna cook
But that quintessential scene is really hard to come
it outside!
by.
I’ve ruined a turkey on a smoker before. And one
I just have to figure out which method I’m going
year, early on in our marriage, the turkey took twice
to use. To weigh my options I consulted some of my
as long as we thought it would in the oven. But since
more experienced friends so I could learn from their
then, my wife has figured it out and she can cook a
victories.
mean turkey. But the problem is, she enjoys making all
the casseroles and sides so much that we can’t afford
one of those backyard barbecue competition guys
to tie up the oven that long. So the last few years we’ve
and says he prefers a turkey on a smoker rather than
outsourced our turkey and left it up to the professionals
a deep-fryer. His best advice is to use a good rub and
at Old Hickory.
smear some butter under the skin. Then watch the
thermometer and don’t overcook it. The advantage of
But this year, I’m feeling brave. I’m gonna take
My buddy John was the first to respond. He’s
back turkey duty.
using a smoker is that rich, smoky flavor that you can’t
get in the oven.
Right away I crossed dishwasher turkey off my list.
Oh, it’s a real thing. A 2013 Men’s Health article claims
the heat and moisture of a dishwasher makes the perfect
and says it turned out so moist and tender he’ll never
cooking environment for a succulent and tender turkey.
cook a turkey any other way. The trick to deep frying
But I just can’t see wasting three and a half hours worth
is to heat the oil first, make sure the bird is completely
of dishwasher cycles on a turkey breast. There has to be
thawed and dry before you drop it in the grease, and
a better way.
closely monitor the temperature so the oil doesn’t
scorch.
So I think I’ve come up with a solution that will
My cousin Patrick deep fried their turkey last year
not tie up the oven (or the dishwasher) for half a day
But I’ve also been hearing about this trash can
and will still give me the satisfaction of perfecting our
thing. My buddy Drew swears it’s the easiest way to
holiday turkey myself.
cook a turkey because all you need is charcoal, foil, and a metal trash can. I know that sounds disgusting at
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
65
first, but I think I might be a believer.
Drew says the indirect charcoal smoke also gives the
turkey a smokey hint and a slight grill flavor too.
Here’s basically how it works. Charcoal is your
source of heat, so light a bag of charcoal and let it turn
I think I can handle that. And I can’t wait to try it.
grey while you're preparing the bird. For your cooking
I found a video on YouTube from Tim Farmer’s
space, you make a base of aluminum foil over a level
Country Kitchen that claims a trash can turkey takes
firepit and put the bird feet-down over a stake in the
about an hour and half to cook to 165 degrees. Tim’s
ground covered in aluminum foil to hold the bird
came out golden brown, too.
upright. You can salt and pepper your turkey or season it
however you want, then simply put that metal trash can
Cliff ’s brine recipe. Which as it turns out is not Cliff ’s
over the bird with the open side down and the bottom
recipe at all. It’s Alton Brown’s, so you can Google that
side up. Just make sure there’s enough aluminum foil
one. But a brine is basically a salt and spice solution you
outside the trash can perimeter because your next step
soak the turkey in the night before you cook it. It helps
is using a shovel to place a few layers of charcoal all the
the bird retain its moisture so it comes out fork-tender,
way around the bottom of the trash can where it forms
no matter what method you use.
a seal with the aluminum foil. Also add a couple layers
on the top of the trash can. What happens is the heat
“Ol’ Man” in A Christmas Story. And this just might be
coming from the charcoal above and below the bird
a turkey to remember. Trash can and all.
The only other thing I might add is my buddy
With any luck, I’ll be a turkey connoisseur like the OP
cooks it equally all the way around. And as the juices drip onto the hot foil, the steam circulates around the metal can and steams the turkey with its own juices.
66 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
Danny May is a regular contributor to Owensboro Parent. He and his wife, Kelly, are raising two very active boys, 10 and 8.
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
67
discover
the kids eat free list
Every Day O’Charley’s – Free kids meal (ages 10 & under) with the purchase of adult entrée
Monday Catfish Willy’s – $1.99 kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal Grandy’s – 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult meal TGI Fridays – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with the purchase of an adult entrée Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn - Up to 2 kids eat free (ages 10 & under) from 4-9pm with adult buffet purchase Zaxby’s – Up to 3 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult meal from 5-8pm Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entrée
Tuesday Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with the purchase of an adult entrée from 4-8pm
68 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
Denny’s – Up to 2 free kids meals with an adult meal purchase Fazoli’s – Up to 3 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult entrée Pizza By the Guy – 1 free kids buffet for (ages 10 & under) with an adult purchase with a drink on Tuesdays from 5-8pm Pizza Hut (South Frederica location) – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet from 4:30-7pm Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entrée
Wednesday McDonald’s – $1.99 Happy meals; dine-in only from 4-7pm Firehouse Subs – Up to 2 kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of an adult meal
www.OwensboroParent.com
Donatos – Up to 2 free individual 1-topping pizza/per child (12 and under) with the purchase of a large pizza; dine-in only from 5-8pm Burger Theory (located in the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront) – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with purchase of an adult meal; breakfast, lunch & dinner
Thursday Bee Bop’s – Free kids meal (12 & under) with the purchase of adult meal after 5pm Dairy Queen (Frederica Location) – Up to 2 $1.99 kids meals Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich
Saturday Maloney’s – Free kids meals from 11am-2pm Lure Seafood & Grille – Free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée Wheatgrass Juice Bar – Free kids smoothie with adult purchase
www.OwensboroParent.com
Long John Silver’s – $1.99 Kids meals all day
Sunday Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal (10 & under) per adult entrée Maloney’s – Free kids meals from 11am-2pm Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only
REPORT CARD INCENTIVES
Orange Leaf – Bring in your report card and receive $1 off yogurt; a report card with straight A’s will receive a small cup free. Ritzy’s (Both locations) – Ritzy’s has a “Scoops for Scholars” program. Students can bring in their report card each grading period to earn treats for each “A.” 1A = flavored soft drink (cherry, vanilla, or chocolate) 2 A's = single scoop of ice cream 3 A's = your choice of a hotdog, coney, hamburger, or cheeseburger 4 A's = double scoop of ice cream
Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11am – 3pm
McDonald’s – All five Owensboro McDonald’s decided this school year that they will award a free Happy Meal to any student who gets straight A's on their report card.
Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids (ages 10 & under) with adult purchase with a drink from 11:30am2pm
Family Video (1212 JR Miller) – For a limited time during the summer, you can take your end of the year report card to Family Video. Your child will receive a voucher for a free movie/game rental for every A (or equivalent) they received in a core class for the year.
Firehouse Subs – Kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult *The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please
Chuck E. Cheese in Evansville – A child can receive 10 tokens with a purchase if they bring in their report card. Sky Zone in Evansville – All A’s= 1/2 off any jump. A & B’s= $5 off any jump. Weekdays & Friday 2-7pm.
contact restaurants to ensure their participation.
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
69
november // december Informing parents about fun, local events is a priority for Owensboro Parent. Our magazine compiles events from across the city and county. So when your family is looking for something to do, check out the Owensboro Parent calendar, where you will find information on local events, including event descriptions, locations, dates, times and price. Want to include your event? Contact the editor at ashley@tannerpublishing.com.
ALL MONTH
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2
exploration of the world outside. You
42ND ANNUAL HOLIDAY FOREST FESTIVAL
CONNECTING WOMEN CONFERENCE Join
might just find that a bug’s life is not all
OF TREES Fifteen monumental Christmas
for a weekend of worship, fellowship and
that different from your own! 4 - 5 p.m. at
trees designed to interpret the origins of
biblical truths and hear from Lysa Terkeurst,
RiverPark Center.
Kentucky’s Bluegrass Music traditions. The
President of Proverbs 31 Ministries. Tickets
exhibition continues through December 31 and admission fees are $3.00 for adults and $2.00 for children. OMFA Hours: Closed Monday; Tuesday through Friday 12 – 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.
on sale online or by calling the RiverPark
MARKET DAYS See Saturday, November 3
Center Box Office (270) 687-2770. Friday at
for details.
5:30 p.m. and Saturday at 8 a.m.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
MARKET DAYS - PRESERVATION STATION
Thursday, November 1 for details.
Market Days are held the first weekend of
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1 FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
DCPL’s
every month Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sun.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
12-5 p.m. with over 100 marketeers selling
November 1 for details.
youngest guests (ages 0-2) and their
antique, unique, boutique, and handcrafted
caregivers are invited to join in stories,
finds, live music and delicious food.
songs and movement to help them prepare for a life of learning. Stay to play
CONNECTING WOMEN CONFERENCE See
and socialize with a craft or other activity;
Friday, November 2 for details.
9:30 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
Young
learners (ages 3-5) and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs,
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4 DIARY OF A WORM, SPIDER & A FLY The
See
Ÿ
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6
Election Day
Ÿ
coolest ever rock-n-roll romp in a bug’s
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8
world, capturing all the droll humor and
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME See
whimsy of the wildly popular books!
Thursday, November 1 for details.
Worm eats his homework, Fly believes
and movement to help them prepare for
she has superpowers, and Spider can’t
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
school. Stay to play and socialize with a
wait to grow up and molt. Promoting
November 1 for details.
craft or other activity; 10:30 a.m.; Daviess
eco-consciousness, earth science and
County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
tolerance of others, Diary of a Worm,
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9
dcplibrary.org
a Spider & a Fly is a joyful, hip musical
FREE FAMILY STORYTIME Children
70 OWENSBORO PARENT
See
. November // December 2018
See
of all
www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar
ages and their caregivers are invited
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11
about mummies and the sphinx. Crafts,
to join us for stories, songs, and other
KENTUCKY REMEMBERS Military Ball
games, and other activities will follow. 6
activities designed to keep families
Beginning at 4 p.m. at the RiverPark
p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020
reading together; 11 - 12 p.m.; Daviess
Center, guests will enjoy a social hour
Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
and silent auction, followed by a dinner,
dcplibrary.org
program and dancing.
FREE LITTLE LEONARDOS Dress
for a mess
and join us as we create a fun art project 2018 KRAFTUCKY ARTS & CRAFTS EXPO
2018 KRAFTUCKY ARTS & CRAFTS EXPO See
(Ages 2-5). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public
Shop unique handmade creations in
Friday, November 9 for details.
Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
quilts, jewelry, floral arrangements,
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14
painting, candles, pottery, embroidery,
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
special classes, and much more! Show
Thursday, November 1 for details.
woodcrafts, furniture, holiday decorations, See
Times: Friday, Nov. 9: 2 – 7 p.m. | Saturday, Nov.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
10: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sunday, Nov. 11: 11
November 1 for details.
See
a.m. – 4 p.m.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10
THE UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND The
KENTUCKY REMEMBERS will be an all-
Jazz Ambassadors is the United States
weekend celebration remembering
Army’s premier big band. This 19-member
veteran. It will begin at the Shelton
ensemble, formed in 1969, has received
Memorial in Smothers Park with a 5K,
great acclaim both at home and abroad
1-mile walk and Fun Run for Little Warriors,
performing America’s original art form,
followed by a breakfast at the VFW Post
jazz. Concerts by the Jazz Ambassadors
696 and auction. The day will end with the
are designed to entertain all types of
Veterans Day Parade at 2 p.m.
audiences. Custom compositions and
FREE FANCY NANCY’S TEA PARTY
Join DCPL
in your finest clothes for a fun, Fancy Nancy-themed tea party! Enjoy tea, a story, and a craft to take home. Registration is required; 4 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
See
Thursday, November 1 for details. FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
See
November 1 for details.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 RICKY SKAGGS AND KENTUCKY THUNDER
A life full of music. That’s the story of
arrangements highlight the group’s
Ricky Skaggs. By age 21, he was already
ANNUAL VETERANS DAY Parade Please
creative talent and gifted soloists. Their
considered a “recognized master” of one
come and join this annual parade in
diverse repertoire includes big band
of America’s most demanding art forms,
downtown Owensboro and along Veterans
swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz,
but his career took him in other directions,
Boulevard to honor all of our nation’s
standards, popular tunes, Dixieland, vocals,
catapulting him to popularity and success in
veterans. We salute our veterans and thank
and patriotic selections. This is a free
the mainstream of country music. Join the
each for serving our nation, we are deeply
concert for the general public to enjoy at
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum
proud and sincerely grateful; 2 - 3 p.m. in
the RiverPark Center, 7 p.m.
for two special nights, November 16 and
Downtown Owensboro.
17, in Woodward Theatre with the newest FREE MYTHS AND MONSTERS Journey
member of the Bluegrass Music Hall of
2018 KRAFTUCKY ARTS & CRAFTS EXPO See
to find the world's monsters goes to
Fame, Ricky Skaggs. Doors open at 7 p.m.,
Friday, November 9 for details.
Ancient Egypt, where DCPL will talk
concert begins at 8 p.m. for both shows.
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
71
72 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19
2018 OWENSBORO-DAVIESS COUNTY
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
CHRISTMAS PARADE The theme for this
Thursday, November 1 for details.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME See
See
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27
year’s parade is “Our Christmas Wish.” The reigning Miss Kentucky Katie Bouchard will serve as Grand Marshal of the 82nd annual Owensboro-Daviess County Christmas Parade. For detailed information on the Christmas Parade, visit christmasparade.net. FREE FAMILY STORYTIME
Children of all
November 1 for details.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME See
FREE MINI THINKERS Join
November 1 for details.
hands on STEM (Science, Technology,
DCPL for
Engineering, Math) activities for
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20
preschoolers. Recommended for ages
FREE STORY SLIME
5 and younger; 10 a.m.; Daviess County
Step into the DCPL lab
for a fun story and stick around with our
Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
mad scientists for ooze and ahhs and
dcplibrary.org
messy fun. Recommended for ages 6-12.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28
ages and their caregivers are invited
Registration required; 6 p.m.; Daviess
to join us for stories, songs, and other
County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
FREE MINI MYSTERIES Gather
dcplibrary.org
young detectives to solve a uniquely
activities designed to keep families reading
crafted puzzle or challenge. Ages 8-12; 4
together; 10:30 - 11:30 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
with other
FREE EARLY EXPLORERS
Join the library as
they read stories and learn about people,
p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
cultures, and art from around the world (Ages 5 and younger). 10 a.m.; Daviess
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29
County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
dcplibrary.org
Thursday, November 1 for details.
of Honky Tonkin’ with Tracy Lawrence is
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME See
one of the most recognizable voices in
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME See
November 1 for details.
country music. Selling 13 million albums,
Thursday, November 1 for details.
TRACY LAWRENCE IN CONCERT Tracy
Lawrence, the multi-platinum CMA and ACM award-winning artist and radio host
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30
22 songs on the Billboard top 10 charts, and 8 number one singles. Opening
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
for Lawrence will be Owensboro’s own
November 1 for details.
Blackford Creek. Reserved tickets are $25, $39, $59, and $79. Tickets are on sale now, may be purchased online at OwensboroTickets.com, the Owensboro Convention Center Box Office, or charge by phone at 270-297-9932. Additional
See
See
MARTY STUART AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES IN CONCERT Marty Stuart,
Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24
musician is living, breathing country-music
SHOP SMALL ONE DAY MARKET Day
history. He’s played alongside the masters,
100 marketeers selling antique, unique,
from Cash to Lester Flatt, who discovered
boutique, and handcrafted finds, live music
him; Marty Stuart has been a worldwide
and delicious food at Preservation Station
ambassador for Nashville to Bakersfield,
Market & Event Center.
he has safeguarded country’s most
processing fees apply to all ticket sales.
valuable traditions and physical artifacts.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26
Stuart continues to record and release
RICKY SKAGGS AND KENTUCKY THUNDER
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME See
keenly relevant music, records that honor
See Friday, November 16 for details.
Thursday, November 1 for details.
country’s rich legacy while advancing it
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
73
into the future. Way Out West, his 18th
with The Nutcracker! Owensboro
MONDAY, DECEMBER 3
studio album, hits both of those marks.
Dance theatre is still bringing new and
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME See
Tickets are on sale now online or call
innovating tricks and technology to the
Thursday, November 1 for details.
(270) 926-7891.
stage. The audience will enter Marie’s dream, experiencing all the magic and
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME See
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1
wonder through dance with a flying
November 1 for details.
CARE NET ANNUAL 5K REINDEER RUN/
bed, levitating Arabian dancer, and more
WALK This event is open to runners
special flying effect from ZFX. ODT also
and walkers of all types. Families welcome! Work groups/teams welcome! School teams welcomed! Participants are encouraged to come dressed in Christmas attire (ugly sweaters, Santa hats, bells, fun socks, etc. ). Prizes awarded to best dressed and various race winner divisions. Visit with Santa, enjoy hot chocolate, and win prizes as we kick off the Christmas season. Entry fee of $25 includes a long sleeve t-shirt and entry
welcomes back professional dancers from Giordano Dance Chicago and Kentucky Ballet Theatre. If you missed your chance to see The Nutcracker last season be sure to mark your calendars for this December 1, 2018 at 7 pm at RiverPark Center. Tickets are on sale now online at OwensboroTickets.com or by calling the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 6872787.
for door prize drawings. Family discounts
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4 FREE TINY DANCERS Join
the library for
an exciting dance party with songs, movement, rhymes, and just plain fun. Parents and caregivers are invited to join in and show off their dance moves (ages 5 and younger). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6 HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Spectacular
Show Featuring some of the most elite
available. Some restrictions apply. Visit
MARKET DAYS See Saturday, November 3
dunkers on the planet, exceptional ball
RunSignUp.com for registration details.
for details.
handlers, and Guinness World Record
THE NUTCRACKER BY OWENSBORO
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2
than just basketball – they are the ultimate
DANCE THEATER Find the joy of Christmas
MARKET DAYS See Saturday, November 3
in family entertainment that will bring
through the beauty of music and dance
for details.
smiles and fan interaction to people of
holders, a Globetrotters game is more
74 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
75
calendar all ages! After the game,
Resort Goo Time Theater; $12
the Harlem Globetrotters
for adults, $6 for ages 6-12,
will remain on the court for
ages 5 and under free.
autographs and photographs with fans. Tickets start at
MONDAY, DECEMBER 10
$26 and are available at
FREE BABY/TODDLER
harlemglobetrotters.com
STORYTIME See Thursday,
or OwensboroTickets.com;
November 1 for details.
Owensboro Sportscenter from 7 - 10 p.m. FREE TINY DANCERS Join
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
the
library for an exciting dance party with songs, movement, rhymes, and just plain fun. Parents and caregivers are invited to join in and show off their dance moves (ages 5 and younger). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
See November 1 for details.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11 FREE LITTLE LEONARDOS
Dress
for a mess and join us as we create a fun art project (Ages 2-5). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13
FREE BABY/TODDLER
FREE LITTLE LEONARDOS Dress
STORYTIME See Thursday,
for a mess and join us as we
November 1 for details.
create a fun art project (Ages 2-5). 10 a.m.; Daviess County
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
Public Library, 2020 Frederica
See November 1 for details.
St.; dcplibrary.org
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7
FREE BABY/TODDLER
FREE FAMILY STORYTIME
STORYTIME See Thursday,
Children of all ages and
November 1 for details.
their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs,
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
and other activities designed
See November 1 for details.
to keep families reading together; 11 - 12 p.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 THE WHITESVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE Sponsored by the
Whitesville Lion’s Club the parade begins at 11 a.m. LANHAM BROTHERS CHRISTMAS JAMBOREE BENEFIT The show will feature
Kings Highway, Cathy and Tommy Mullins, Skylar and Sophia Cain, Wayne Morris, Jeff Hardesty, Leland Isbill and Rollie Pike; Diamond Lake 76 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 A ROCKIN’ COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Enjoy this exciting
live tribute show starring Brad McCrady as Elvis Presley, Terry Lee Ridley as Jerry Lee Lewis, Allen Hilbert as George Jones, Tiffany Puckett as Tammy Wynette, Frank Hamilton as Johnny Cash, Marla Potter as Patsy Cline, Paul Penny as Roy Orbison, Emily Portman as Loretta Lynn, and Tom Ruopp as Merle Haggard. General Admission is $16 with seating as first come, first served; Owensboro Convention Center from 7 - 9 p.m. www.OwensboroParent.com
calendar A VERY MERRY HOLIDAY POPS A Very Merry Holiday Pops! returns with an all-new concert featuring holiday favorites, timeless classics, fresh new works, majestic choral music with the Owensboro Symphony Chorus and a sing-along to familiar carols. Come hear all your favorites from Sleigh Ride to The Polar Express, it’s one of Owensboro’s most festive Holiday events for the entire family!
MONDAY, DECEMBER 17 FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME See
Thursday, November 1 for details.
comes to life in the all-new touring production A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage is a present the whole family can enjoy! Tickets are on sale now at RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2787 or online at riverparkcenter.org.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 See Thursday, November 1 for details.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
FREE EARLY EXPLORERS Join the library as they read stories and learn about people, cultures, and art from around the world (Ages 5 and younger). 10 a.m.; Daviess County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.; dcplibrary.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE! Everyone’s favorite holiday classic
www.OwensboroParent.com
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25
Christmas
Ÿ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME See
Thursday, November 1 for details.
FREE BABY/TODDLER STORYTIME
November 1 for details.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME See
Ÿ
See
November 1 for details.
FREE PRESCHOOL STORYTIME See
November 1 for details.
Ÿ
Ÿ
MONDAY, DECEMBER 31
Christmas Eve
New Year's Eve
MONDAY, DECEMBER 24
Ÿ
Ÿ
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
77
78 OWENSBORO PARENT
. November // December 2018
www.OwensboroParent.com
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
79
www.OwensboroParent.com
November // December 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT
80