Owensboro Parent - February / March 2020

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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. February // March 2020

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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. February // March 2020

Contents

Februar y // March 2020

yum!

Don’t

miss this strawberries & cream pie recipe on page 20!

IN E VE RY ISSUE

37

8 From the Editor 9 Around OBKY 9 Student Spotlight 10 Parent Profile

A Popping Success Meet cousins 8-year-old cousins Rickey and Charlie and learn about their thriving popcorn business.

11 Real life with Lora Wimsatt Valentine’s Day to the rescue!

KE E PIN G IT REA L

14 Hashtag Mom Fail Unconditional love: the things we do for our children.

15 Mom Moments with Jacy English Another hilarious mom moment you won’t want to miss.

MAKIN G IT

40 Little Girls, Big Dreams Read about sisters Jocelynn and Lillian, who have made a name for themselves with their jewelry business.

17 Fun Holiday Lunch Box Idea Win some cool parent points by being creative with your kids' lunchbox.

18 The Recipe Box Valentine’s Day treats you can make without turning on your oven.

22 Craft Time We’re “hedge” over heels for this Valentine’s craft!

24 Harper’s Haven This sweet space is perfect for a 4-year-old and her new puppy.

D ISCOV ER

57 The Book Nook Discover Valentine’s Day with these seasonal books, all available at DCPL. 60 Parental Control Christina Dalton answers your most difficult parenting questions.

62 Helping your Marriage Survive Parenthood Learn three ways to grow closer to your spouse amidst the challenges of parenting.

OUT & A BOUT

65 Calendar Local events and things to do this season.

70 Kids Meal Deals When and where to take your kids to eat for the best deals

FROM OU R REA D ERS

72 Valentine’s Day Boxes See your photos submitted to our Facebook page.

76 Say What?

We asked: “If you had a million dollars, what would be the first few things you would buy?”

SPECIA L A DV ERTIS IN G SECTIONS

27 2020 Preschool Guide Is it time for your little one to start school? The Owensboro Parent Preschool Guide lists every local preschool option, with full information on class times, cost and registration.

45 Planning for the Future In this well-rounded special section, learn different ways you and your family can prepare for the future from local experts.

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BEHIND THE SCENES

IF MONEY WAS NO OBJECT, WHAT WOULD YOU DO ALL DAY?

EDITORIAL DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

“

Ashley Sorce-Wedding

If money was no object, I would like to say I would do something productive or give back to my community. But if I’m being honest I would probably binge watch The Office and Parks & Recreation, for at least the first few months.

“

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Andrea Roberson Eric Bivins Monica Smith

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jamie Alexander Christina Dalton Jacy English Jamie Johnson Scott Kenworthy Laura Murphy Lora Wimsatt

�

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Gleason Do you have a story idea? We want

I would love to live or vacation in the Rocky Mountains with my husband, John, and son, Lincoln.

to hear from you! Email your suggestion to ashley@tannerpublishing.com

�

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

Brock Quinton Robert Williams Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise.

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jamie Alexander COVER KID

Zolee Kay Webb, age 5

888-304-5416 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.

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�

Daughter of Aliyah Bracy and De’Airius Webb Granddaughter of Keith and Cari Bracy and Alisha Taylor and Laurentis Webb

DISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

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

ONLINE

owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent instagram @owensboroparentmag twitter.com/owensboroparent

TANNER PUBLISHING CO. PUBLISHER

Jason Tanner For more information about advertising call

“

If money was no object, I would travel to some place warm so I could spend all of my time outdoors in the sunshine!

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

“

I would travel and take photos around the world!

But in case my boss is reading this, I only mean on the weekends because I love my job.

�

đ&#x;˜‰

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BEHIND THE SCENES

From the

Editor FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Money. It’s something we all want more of, but we don’t like to talk about it much, or put in the effort it takes to save it.

I am just as guilty of it. I have told Drew we need to sit down and make a budget for 2020, but we are a couple of weeks into the new year and that to do list item has yet to be checked off. I stock up on groceries to feed us at home for the week and choose to eat out instead. And let’s not even talk about my Target runs. I go in with the best of intentions, promising myself that I will only buy the one item I drove to South Frederica to pick up. Instead, an hour goes by and my cart is full of deals that were just too good to pass up.

But what does that teach my kids?

Laura Murphy Laura Murphy is a mom of three who is proud to represent Daviess County Public Schools as Middle School Teacher of the Year.

Recently, she represented educators at the Governor’s Inauguration in Frankfort. She has been a Pure Barre instructor for five years, helps sponsor the East Daviess County Elementary Race series at Yellow Creek Park, and enjoys running local races.

She is currently enrolled at the University of the Cumberlands where she is completing her doctorate degree in educational leadership. She has taught language arts at Daviess County Middle School for 11 years. Her favorite part of writing, she says, is being a storyteller.

While I am working on being more financially responsible, I am nowhere near where I want to be. We have family that swears by the envelope system and I’ve heard Dave Ramsey’s name thrown around, but don’t know very much about his financial principles.

In an attempt to teach my kids about the value of a dollar and what it looks like to make, spend and earn money, I challenged Avery and Reed to run a one-day lemonade stand. Now, I disguised my lesson on our summer bucket list. Lemonade stand in the summer? It was an easy sell.

We made a list of all the supplies we would need, which really just amounted to cups and lemonade mix (regular and pink). I told them I would buy their supplies, but they would have to pay me back as their investor.

I also suggested that since they both have full piggy banks from chores and birthdays, it may be a fun idea to donate their profits.

They jumped on board, choosing to give their sales to the Daviess County Humane Society.

After a few hours in the summer heat, the kids sold all of their product, making a total of $110 after repaying their business partner/ investor/mom.

For us, this was a win-win-win-win. Avery and Reed (well, let's be honest, more Avery than Reed because he was only three at the time) learned about managing money, communication, giving to others and just plain had fun on a summer day. And the pride on their faces when they presented their money to the Humane Society is something I will never forget.

For a mom that is learning to better budget and financially plan for the future, I’ll take that quadruple win any day.

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I am a BIG proponent of preschool. For Avery, who knew all of her letters and numbers at a very early age, preschool was more about learning social skills and thriving in an environment that wasn’t home.

For Reed, it was about laying those foundational skills like alphabet, numbers and listening to the teacher. Avery attended the 3-year-old and 4-year-old classes at Cathedral Preschool, which we loved. I’ll never forget reading “The Kissing Hand” on her orientation day. Reed goes to Meadow Lands Elementary’s preschool because that’s where his big sis is in third grade. Whether it is for social or foundational skills, at a private or public facility, I have been pleased with both of our preschool experiences.

I try to teach my kids to save their money that they get from chores or birthdays. A cute bank goes a long way in encouraging them to save. I took both my kids to Target when they were around 3 and let them pick out their own bank. They are always shocked when all of their change adds up to a big amount to deposit into their savings account.

AROUND OBKY • BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE OWENSBORO TIMES

LOCAL AUTHOR SHARES NEW BOOK WITH DPES KINDERGARTEN CLASS

KIDS’ NONPROFIT FUNDED 11 WELLS IN AFRICA THIS YEAR

Jodi Ekbundit, a homeschooling mom, and Sarah Malone, her friend and fellow homeschooler, were reading “A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story,” which chronicles the life of children who must travel several hours a day through the African bush to get clean water.

Both the Ekbundit and Malone children were affected by what the children in the book went through to get clean water. It affected Ekbundit so much that she reached out to the nonprofit Go Drill International, which was begun by an American family who moved to East Africa in 2008 and are committed to their mission work of resolving water issues by building wells.

Once Ekbundit decided this was where she wanted to focus her time and resources, she wondered how to get kids involved and be part of the fundraising for Go Drill International.

“If mine can be a part, why not others?”

Ekbundit said. “Why not empower them to do something about it?”

The Ekbundits began Kids for Kids nonprofit. The Malones immediately jumped in. The organization is not affiliated with any church but rather by kids who have a love for other kids, Malone said.

Kids for Kids learned that to dig a well would cost $3,800, so they set their sights on raising enough to build one well, Malone said.

They also discussed how Go Drill hires people from the village to build the wells and the benefit of that for the families.

The kids who felt comfortable sharing the organization’s story did and others held lemonade stands. In the end, they raised over $40,000 — enough to build 11 wells — which means that every day, 4,000 kids and other villagers have access to clean water.

“People opened their hearts and their wallets,” Ekbundit said. “It was insane and so above and beyond what we expected.”

About 40 children are now part of the nonprofit. For more information or to get involved, visit the Kids for Kids Facebook page.

Local author Hannah Goebel shared her published children’s book, “There’s an Elephant in the Yard,” with kindergarten students at Deer Park Elementary School in January. Goebel read the book aloud to students and also spent time answering students’ questions about writing, reading and creativity.

Goebel’s recently published book was based on a true story experienced by Owensboro resident Doug Wetzel. As a young child living in Ohio, Wetzel had gone outside to play one day and discovered an elephant in his yard that had escaped from a traveling circus.

Goebel first heard the story when she accompanied her college roommate and Doug’s daughter, Langley Wetzel, to Ohio to visit members of her father’s family. Goebel said she knew the story would make a great children’s book.

Goebel not only wrote “There’s an Elephant in the Yard,” but did the illustrations too. She told kindergarten students at Friday’s visit that she taught herself to draw by watching YouTube videos.

“I’m not really an artist, but I just kept drawing, and drawing, and drawing until, finally, I did it,” she told the students. “If you want to do something, you can work really, really hard and learn to do it.”

Students were fascinated as Goebel shared the story of Dougie and his unlikely friendship with an elephant he found in his yard. Goebel asked students about their favorite animals and what they’d do if they saw an elephant in their own yard during the visit.

Kindergarten teacher Julia Boling said her students had just completed writing their first short stories when she decided to ask Goebel to speak to her class.

“We love having that resource [in Goebel], and we’re just so appreciative she’d be willing to do that for us today,” Boling said. “The kids have been excited all week to share their stories they’ve read with her, and to talk with her about their dreams of becoming an author.”

“There’s an Elephant in the Yard” is available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble.

Student Spotlight:

“

DESTINI LEONARD isn't just a rock star junior at OIA, but she also volunteers her time as a Girls Inc. Ambassador. She has been working with the young girls for the past three years as a mentor and a teacher, helping them with topics such as staying active, making friends and making good life choices.

”

- Beth Benjamin, Director Owensboro Innovation Academy

“

AVA HALL is an 8th student at DCMS. She is a straight A student with zero discipline marks ever - not even on her choice card, which is like a warning. Ava excels in Algebra and Spanish, is a member of NJHS, was recognized as an Elite Panther and is a Peer Mentor for special needs students.

She dreams of being a famous actress one day. She even flew to Los Angeles to try out for a Netflix sitcom. Unfortunately, the show was cancelled and never aired, or it could have been her big break!

”

- Ashley Collins, Teacher Daviess County Middle School February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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AROUND OBKY • PARENT PROFILE

Trey Pippin

COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS COUNSELOR AT DAVIESS COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

“

Support your wife. Get up in the night so she doesn’t have to. Embrace your role as an equal caretaker and tend to the baby with confidence. They’re half yours! You can do it!

”

TEL L US A B O UT YOU R FAMILY A N D YO UR J O B. I am the College and Career Readiness Counselor at Daviess County High School. Prior to moving out of the classroom, I was a social studies teacher.

I am also a proud 2008 graduate from DCHS. My wife, Maddy, is a Nursing Instructor at Owensboro Community and Technical College. We have been married for 4 years.

We first met at Atlantis Swim Club as lifeguards. She didn’t like me much at first, but I eventually won her over! I pinch myself every day because I can’t believe I get to be her husband!

We had our sweet daughter, Sawyer, in December 2018– she just turned 1. We’ve been so blessed with a healthy, happy, and easy baby. We’re having a blast!

WHAT D O YO U LOVE M O S T A BO U T B EING A DA D? I am particularly enjoying learning things about bows, expanding my definition of colors beyond red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple, and figuring out what the heck smocking is.

In all seriousness, I haven’t found anything I don’t like so I suppose what I love most about being a dad is everything.

The last thing I say to Sawyer every night is, “I love being your daddy.”

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WH AT H AS B EEN T H E M OST SPECIAL PAR T OF PAR EN T H OOD SO FAR? I made the decision to take an extended amount of time off when the baby was born— about 6 weeks. It was a hard decision for me because I am still relatively early in my career and I know men don’t usually take much time off due to their jobs. However, I figured I only get to be a brand new dad one time in my life and I wanted to have a front row seat. It was a “line in the sand” moment and I was alright making it clear that my family comes first. I wanted to be there for every diaper change and night time wake up.

I wanted to get to see my wife transition into motherhood while simultaneously adjusting to fatherhood by her side— no matter the hour of the day (or night). I’m grateful to have colleagues that supported my decision and helped cover my responsibilities in order to bless my family with this gift.

I’ve climbed the Great Wall of China, been to the top of the Eiffel Tower, met Presidents of the United States, and even worked at Walt Disney World but nothing— nothing— has meant as much to me as that time bonding with our daughter and supporting my wife.

WH AT DO YOU R ECOM MEND FOR OT H ER DADS T H IN KING ABOUT TAKIN G PAT ER N IT Y LEAVE? IF YOU CAN DO IT, DO IT. The bonding time with your wife and your baby will mean so much to you. The chance to be a full part of bringing a baby home and truly being a partner to your wife is incredible. I have a feeling when you’re reflecting on your life when you’re near the end, you’ll look back on that time and be grateful you made the decision to take it.

Google “biggest regrets in life” and nearly every result will say the same thing: “I wish I had spent more time with the people I love most.”

I don’t think you’ll remember specific things you missed at work, but I do think you’ll long for the specific things you missed at home.

B EST PAR EN T ING ADVICE FOR NEW DADS? Take time to be intentional about witnessing the incredible transition of the woman you love into a new amazing creature— a mother. If you think you love her now, just wait- it gets even better.

Mother’s Day will become the most important holiday in your house!

Keeping it Real

R E L ATA B L E S T O R I E S F R O M L O C A L PA R E N T S A N D G R A N D PA R E N T S

Valentine’s Day

to the Rescue

Whoever put Valentine’s Day right

in the middle of February knew what they were doing.

It was also a good idea to schedule

some of the biggest and best holidays

By Lora Wimsatt // Photo by Jamie Alexander

at the end of the year, as that gives us a reason to keep going as our energy starts to fade toward the finish line, but there’s Halloween with its fun decorations (and candy) and Thanksgiving with family (and food) and Christmas with trees and gifts and lights and songs (and food) and New Year’s with parties and celebrations.

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KEEPING IT REAL • REAL LIFE WITH LORA WIMSAT T

And, yeah, more food. Oof.

them, and will address the audience

besides making valentines?), markers

But then you drag all the way

that I actually know a little something

and glue sticks and stickers.

through January, which is usually

about:

But glitter is where it’s at.

cold and grey and miserable, and

Kids.

And the more you love someone,

February arrives pretty much the

the more glitter they get.

same way, but just as you are about

The cards are still fun and

Smear that glue stick! Squeeze

to give up in despair of ever seeing

mostly funny at this age. Who needs

the glue bottle! And then sprinkle,

green grass or a pretty flower again –

those drippy sentiments expressing

sprinkle, sprinkle and sparkle away!

Valentine’s Day to the rescue.

everlasting adoration, inscribed in

No food to speak of except for

some crazy cursive font with lots of

those

sugar/chalk

Kids love Valentine’s Day.

“conversation

swirls that you can hardly even read?

hearts,” unless someone buys you a

Especially when you can trade

box of nice chocolates, but that’s okay.

those cheap paper valentines with

Like a hibernating bear, you’re pretty

goofy cartoons and groan-worthy

much still living off the fat you stored

puns like “I Mustache If You Will Be

up from those previously mentioned

My Valentine” or the ever-popular

end-of-year holidays.

bumblebee-illustrated

No,

Valentine’s

Day

offers

“Bee

My

Valentine,” the kitten-inspired “You’re

The fact that the glitter doesn’t all

stay stuck in place is the best part of the magic.

So if you are fortunate enough to

be the recipient of a glittery valentine this year, don’t worry about the glitter that ends up on the table, on the floor, on the furniture, on the dog.

Don’t drag out the vacuum or reach for the dustbuster or even the

something even better than candy:

My Purr-fect Valentine” or various

LOVE.

jungle animals proclaiming “I’m Wild

About You!”

Just let the love continue to

directed mostly at two very different,

What’s not to love?

sparkle in all those most unexpected

disparate demographics:

Which brings us to the best thing

places

of all: Glitter.

unexpected times …

kids.

Obviously – obviously! – you

… because there’s still a lot of

I’ll discreetly allow the “young

have to have construction paper in

winter to get through before spring

couple” audience to speak for itself

shades of red, pink and white … those

arrives.

– or not – regarding why this special

white-paper lacy doily things (what

occasion might be meaningful for

are those things actually for, anyway,

the way.

Admittedly, the day seems to be

Young couples in love … and little

broom and dustpan.

and

at

all

those

most

But love – and glitter – will light OP

LORA WIMSATT is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.

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KEEPING IT REAL • HASHTAG MOMFAIL

Unconditional Love:

the things we do for our children

By Jamie Johnson

H

appy almost Valentine’s Day! Oddly enough, Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite topics to write about.

I love writing about the things moms and wives REALLY want for Valentine’s Day, like a day full of naps, an entire cheesecake to eat alone in bed while watching Hallmark movies uninterrupted, or yoga pants that are high waisted and long enough to cover my cankles that are also considered dressy so I can wear them to work.

Let’s be honest. None of those things will ever happen, but let’s keep dreaming ladies.

This year, I want to write about the love we have for our kids on Valentine’s Day. I have noticed lately that a lot of people buy their kids gifts for Valentine’s Day. And sorry y’all, but I am not one of those moms. My kids get enough sugar from their grandparents and I am in no way wasting my money on another stuffed animal that will be found covered in dust bunnies under the bed of one of my children six days after they receive it.

We already do so much for our kids. As a parent, we love our children unconditionally. Do they need a gift to realize that? I say no.

Disclaimer: Before anyone gets

upset, I am totally OK with you buying your kids gifts for Valentine’s Day if you want to. Every parent does their own thing and I respect your choices. My choices are just different than yours.

Here is how I show my kids I love them without gifts.

I have not eaten a meal without a kid

either holding onto my leg screaming or asking for a bite in the last five years.

I have caught vomit in my hands.

I have taken care of sick kids while I

am also sick and let them vomit down my back as I attempt not to vomit.

I will never have abs

again. I have actually never had abs, but I like to think that maybe I could get them if my abdominal muscles had not been sliced during C-sections.

I spend an insane

amount of money on daycare and diapers.

98% of my clothes

have had snot, vomit, or Cheeto stains on them. Some I carried them both in my womb for approximately 10 months and had organs removed from my body so the children could be pulled out. I was then sewed back up and sent on my way.

I have watched both seasons of Boss Baby: Back in Business more times than I can count. If your kid is ever bad, I might refer to them as a Scooter Buskie.

I have sacrificed my deep and passionate love for sleep for a very, very long time.

of the Cheeto stains are actually mine, but that’s not something I normally admit.

Our love for our kids is unconditional.

I feed them, clothe them, put a roof over their heads and keep them alive.

And smother them in hugs and kisses until they can physically wiggle out of my embrace. I love my sweet little snot monsters so much, that they will not receive a present for Valentine’s Day.

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!

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OP

MOM MOMENTS WITH JACY ENGLISH

Well, the embarrassment has finally faded and I’m ready to share with y’all the trainwreck that is my life.... again. I call this one “It Appears Harper has Attempted to Sabotage Her Father.�

So. Yesterday while Bo, my 3-year-old son, and I were home, our carbon monoxide alarms went off. I was right in the middle of organizing/purging the kids toys and moving their play room from our bonus room to a free bedroom (you know, so I can shut the door and save my maternal sanity). Well, we left the house and decided to call the fire department to have them come check it out.

So the fire department shows up and they have to go all over the house with their little monitor/checker/ghostbuster machine. Like they have to go in EVERY SINGLE room.

My upstairs was a mess; all the toys, trash and kids’ dirty clothes were strung out over like three rooms and hall because the universe decided to play this cruel joke right in the middle of my rage cleaning/purging/organizing fit. The thought of the firemen seeing that put me in panic mode.

I was apologizing so much for the mess when the firemen were upstairs. I kept going on and on about how it’s not normally like this (ha) and that it was just because I was in the middle of reorganizing. I was so stressed about it.

I was so worried about the mess that I didn’t even notice (enter the “duh duh� noise) the kids’ chalkboard that is conveniently HUMONGOUS AND HANGING RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PLAY ROOM AND RIGHT UNDERNEATH THE CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR.

đ&#x;˜‚

Saturday Harper, 7, Hayden, 6, Bo and Nathan had a pillow fight. They were wrestling and essentially beating the crap out of Nathan. He threw a pillow at Harper and she fell back into the wall. Now, this girl was not hurt but she was mad.

It appears our little drama queen needs a talking to about overreactions.

đ&#x;˜‚đ&#x;˜‚

đ&#x;˜‚

I was freaking out about a messy house when I SHOULD have been freaking out that the firemen were going to think my husband beats our kids.

đ&#x;˜‚đ&#x;˜‚đ&#x;˜‚đ&#x;˜‚

So, there’s that.

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Making it

CRAFTS, RECIPES, AND ACTIVITIES FAMILIES CAN ENJOY TOGETHER

Fun Holiday

LUNCH BOX IDEA

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

Watch for more lunchbox themes and inspiration in

By Jamie Alexander

upcoming issues!

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MAKING IT • THE RECIPE BOX

No Bake Valentine’s Day Treats Photos and recipe by Jamie Alexander

If you’re somebody who doesn’t like baking, Valentine’s Day just got a little sweeter. Each of these treats can be made using only a microwave, are not very time consuming, and will help the recipient feel extra-special!

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Love Bugs WHAT YOU’LL NEED: ›› Fudge-covered Oreos ›› Red candy melts OR white chocolate with red food coloring ›› Black decorating icing ›› Candy eyeballs ›› Heart sprinkles (or other sprinkles of your choice for the “spots”) INSTRUCTIONS: ›› Melt some red candy melts (or white chocolate) in a microwave safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until melted and smooth (if you used white chocolate, add desired amount of red food coloring and stir until completely combined). ›› Dip the fudge-covered oreos into the melted red chocolate, leaving the top quarter undipped (it’s easiest to grab the cookies by this top bit for less messy fingers). ›› Place the dipped cookies on Parchment paper, and sprinkle the red chocolate with heart or circle sprinkles, to recreate the “spots” ›› Once the red chocolate has dried completely, use black icing to add the “wing line,” and any extra spots you’d like to add to fill in the wings. Then, using the black icing as adhesive, stick the candy eye melts on the “head” of the love-bug (the area not covered in red chocolate). Let the bugs sit for 15 minutes before serving.

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MAKING IT • THE RECIPE BOX

Strawberries & Cream Pie WHAT YOU’LL NEED: ›› 3 oz. package of strawberry Jello ›› 8 oz. cream cheese, softened ›› 8 oz. container cool whip ›› Graham cracker pie crust

INSTRUCTIONS: ›› In a medium bowl, dissolve Jello in 1/2 cup of boiling water, then add cream cheese and mix until it’s fully combined (with no chunks) ›› Fold Cool Whip into the mixture until smoothed, then pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust and smooth out the top, ›› Chill the pie in the refrigerator until set (recommended at least four hours)

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Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels & Marshmallows

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: ›› Pretzel rods ›› Large marshmallows ›› White chocolate melting wafers ›› Valentine’s Day sprinkles ›› Paper straws INSTRUCTIONS: ›› Melt the white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth, stirring every 30 seconds. ›› Once melted, dip pretzel rods and marshmallows in the chocolate, leaving the bottom quarter clean. Place the pretzels and marshmallows on parchment paper, and immediately top them all with sprinkles of your choice. Let them dry completely. ›› Once dried, poke paper straws into the bottom the marshmallows to turn them into pops!

OP

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

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MAKING IT • CRAFT TIME

We’re “Hedge” Over Heels FOR THIS VALENTINE’S CRAFT

Why buy Valentine’s card when you can make your own?! This one is simple and doesn’t require too many supplies. Kids of all ages will enjoy creating this happy hedgehog!

By Ashley Sorce-Wedding // Photo by Jamie Alexander

WHAT YOU'LL NEED: ›› White card stock ›› Scissors ›› Washable paint (brown) ›› Paintbrush ›› Pom poms ›› Glue stick ›› Sticker eyes ›› Black marker

INSTRUCTIONS: ›› Fold the cardstock in two (hamburger fold, not hotdog fold).

Cut out a hedgehog shape with the fold to the top in order to create a card that can open. ›› Paint the hedgehog with brown washable paint. We used brown paint for the hedgehog’s body. ›› Cut out the hedgehog “quills” by

›› Use a glue stick to secure the hearts to the hedgehog’s body with the pointed end towards the back of the hedgehog. ›› When the hedgehog’s body is complete, invite kids to decorate their hedgehog’s face. We used a googly eye, a pom pom for the nose and a black marker to draw the smile. ›› On the inside write a sweet Valentine message — we went with “I am ‘hedge’ over heels for you!”

cutting heart shapes out of colored paper or white paper that your child paints.

›› Your hedgehog Valentine is complete!

OP

ASHLEY SORCE-WEDDING is the staff writer for Tanner Publishing Co. and editor of Owensboro Parent. She enjoys everyday adventures with her husband, Drew, daughter, Avery (8), and son, Reed (4).

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February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

23

MAKING IT • SPACES

Harper’s HAVEN

By Ashley Sorce-Wedding

This adorable room belongs to 4-year-old Harper Zimmerman.

While she didn’t have a lot to do with the design of her room, her mom, Audree, gave Owensboro Parent all the details of this special space.

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. February // March 2020

Photos by Jamie Alexander

Tell us about your family.

We are a family of four plus two pups. My husband, Jake, is a nurse practitioner at Owensboro Health’s ER and I am a stay at home parent. My daughter, Hadleigh,

Did you have a style in mind when designing Harper’s room?

To be honest I’m not sure that I have a

What is your favorite part of the room?

certain style. I typically just find things I

My favorite part about her room is the

like and go with it.

bonnet stand with her first bonnet.

Harper didn’t have hair for a very long

is 13 and Harper is 4. Our dogs are Winnie and Wallace.

Tell us about your home.

pig stay on her bed.

Why was it time for a room re-do for Harper? Did she have input on the style?

time so she lived in bonnets during summer.

I redesigned Harper’s room because it

What about Harper’s?

was time for a big girl bed. I’m not sure

Harper says her favorite part about her

starter home. I can’t imagine leaving it

she wanted to help decorate. The only

room is her rug because it’s pink like

just yet. It’s small but cozy.

thing she requested was her pudgy the

Pinkalicious.

Our home is a new build but also a

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

25

Is there anything sentimental about the design?

The dresser was mine when I was a little girl. It was passed down to my oldest daughter Hadleigh and now passed down to Harper.

Where do you get your design ideas?

A little Pinterest and a little on my own. I knew I wanted it to be girly. I went back and forth on different wallpapers for a few weeks and ultimately decided on the Anthropology watercolor flora wallpaper. My husband is a saint for hanging that wallpaper. I also knew I wanted to incorporate bows and lucked out when I found dresser pulls and a lamp. Her sheets are also pretty pink bows.

Did you have a budget?

I didn’t initially set a budget. I just tried to be conscious of how much I was spending. Luckily I kept it around $1,500. Using Hadleigh’s bed from when she was a little girl and my dresser saved a lot of money.

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. February // March 2020

OP

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

the 2020

Preschool Guide Is it time for your little one to start school? The Owensboro Parent Preschool Guide lists every local preschool option, with full information on class times, cost and registration.

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

27

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

AUDUBON AREA

(Head Start)

Dar-Nek Family Development Center 4800 New Hartford Rd. | 270-683-6377 Helen Sears Family Development Center at the Villa 2225 E. 18th Street | 270-691-8000 Leola Hayden Family Development Center 1306 East 8th Street | 270-689-9387 West End Family Development Center 800 W. 5th Street | 270-685-3231 Killian Migrant Center 900 Walnut Street | 270-852-6534

Age: 6 weeks – pre-kindergarten Classes & Cost: Working parents pay according to a sliding scale based on income; otherwise, programs are free.

Head Start has two models: partnership programs with local school districts and stand-alone, full-year, full-day learning facilities. These curriculum-based programs serve low-income families and/or children with disabilities or state foster children.

BREY’S EARLY LEARNING SCHOOL 1945 Tamarack Rd. 270-926-0202 or 270-314-4673

Age: 2 – 6 years old Classes & Cost: Tuition for the toddler

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. February // March 2020

program is $25 for each session. Session available are: 8 - 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Parens can add 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. for an additional cost. Tuition for the preschool program vary depending on session. Sessions available are Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday from 8 – 11 a.m. for $230 per month; Tuesday/ Wednesday/Thursday from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. for $460 per month; Monday/ Wednesday from 8 - 11 a.m. for $165 per month; Monday/Wednesday from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. for $330 per month; Monday-Thursday from 8 - 11 a.m. for $315 per month/ Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. for $630 per month.

After school is available daily until 5:30 p.m. at the rate of $10/day. Early drop off is available at 7:30 a.m.

Faith-Based Program? No

CATHEDRAL PRESCHOOL 600 Locust Street | 270-926-1652

Age: Age: 3 – 5 years old. Must be 3 or 4 or 5 by August 1, 2020 and must be potty trained.

Classes & Cost: 3-year-old class is held Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/ Thursday from 8 – 10:50 a.m. for $132 per month.

4-year-old class is held Monday/ Wednesday/Friday from 8 – 11 a.m. for

$174 per month or Tuesday/Thursday from 8 – 11 a.m. for $132 per month or Monday through Thursday from 8 – 11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. for $190 per month. 5-year-old class is held Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. for $195 per month. After School Care is available from 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 7:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. on Friday for all ages enrolled in the preschool. Cost per month for 2 days is $123; 3 days is $184; 4 days is $245; and 5 days is $332.

Faith-Based Program? Yes, nondenominational.

DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS PRESCHOOL Ages: 3 – 4 years old Classes & Cost: A student is eligible for preschool in the Daviess County Public Schools system if he or she is 3 or 4 years old with a delay or disability; 4 years old and income eligible; or 3 or 4 years old and in the fee-based program.

Classes are Monday through Thursday from 8 – 11 a.m. or 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Time can vary slightly on individual school’s schedule. One meal is served and transportation is provided.

Must be 3 or 4 by August 1.

HERITAGE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL 3585 Thruston Dermont Rd. | 270-685-4002

Age: 3 – 4 years old Classes & Cost: 3-year-old class held Tuesday/Thursday from 8:30 – 11:20 a.m. for $168 per month. 4-year-old class held Monday/ Wednesday/Friday from 8:30 – 11:20 a.m. for $196 per month. $200 registration and material fee.

Faith-Based Program? Yes. Preschool is a ministry of Heritage Baptist Church, but 70% of students come from outside the church.

HERITAGE PARK PRESCHOOL 3802 Legacy Run | 270-683-0611

Age: 6 weeks – 5 years Classes & Cost: Full day, full year program for 6 weeks – 1 year old is $135 per week. Full day, full year program for 2 through 5 year olds is $135 per week.

Faith-Based Program? No.

MAXIMILIAN MONTESSORI ACADEMY PRESCHOOL 1401 Spring Bank Drive, Suite 4 | 270-689-1402

Age: 3 – 5 years old Classes & Cost: 3 – 5-year-olds are in a blended class full-day program Monday – Friday for $550 per month.

Faith-Based Program? Yes, non-denominational.

OWENSBORO CHURCH OF CHRIST PRESCHOOL 3300 East U.S. Highway 60 | 270-684-3406

Age: 3 – 5 years old Classes & Cost: 3-year-old class held Tuesday/Thursday from 8:15 – 11:15 a.m. for $100 per month. 4-year-old and Pre-Kindergarten classes held Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 8:15 – 11:15 a.m. for $120 per month. 7:30 a.m. early drop off available. Must be 3, 4 or 5

by August 1. Must be potty trained.

Faith-Based Program? Yes, non-denominational.

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PRESCHOOL GUIDE

OWENSBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS HAGER PRESCHOOL

1701 West 7th Street | 270-686-1125

Age: 3 – 4 years old Classes & Cost: This program is a blended partner with Head Start. There is no cost for attendance, but students must be income eligible or have a developmental delay. If student does not qualify for either of these criteria, parents may elect to pay tuition of $280 per month. Classes are 3-year-old and 4-year-old blended and are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; one Friday of each month, children do not attend. Owensboro Public School provides transportation.

SEVEN HILLS AUDUBON AREA HEAD START PRESCHOOL

2401 McConnell Ave. | 270-686-1014

Age: 3 – 4 years old Classes & Cost: This program is a blended partner with Head Start. There is no cost for attendance, but students must be income eligible or have a developmental delay.

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. February // March 2020

Classes are 3-year-old and 4-year-old blended and are Monday through Friday from 8:45 - 3:45 p.m.; second Friday of each month, children do not attend.

Owensboro Public School provides transportation.

PLAY SMART PRESCHOOL SIMPLY THERAPY

1512 Frederica Street | 270-683-9992

Age: Ages 2-5 Classes & Cost: The half-day program runs from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Prices for the half-day program are: 2 days for $200, 3 days $276, 5 days for $345. The all-day program runs from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Prices for the all-day program are: 2 days for $304, 3 days for $456 and 5 days for $580.

Faith-based Program? No.

PRESBYTERIAN WEEKDAY SCHOOL (FORMERLY CHILDREN’S DAY OUT) First Presbyterian Church 1328 Griffith Ave | 270-684-1467

Age: 6 months-PreK Classes & Cost: Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:15 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. We have a $50

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31

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

registration fee. Cost is $65 for one day per week, $105 for 2 days per week, or $140 for 3 days per week. We have a scholarship program and a sibling discount. There is also a semester supply fee (Aug and Jan) which is based on the number of days attended. 1 day is $35, 2 days is $50, and 3 days is $70.

8 TI P S FO R A FI RS T-TI ME PRES C HO OL ER ›› Visit Daviess County Public Library during Storytime. This will let your child get used to hearing someone other than you and introduce them to group time.

Faith-based Program? Yes.

›› Establish a routine of “early to bed” and “school wake-up time”

SETTLE MEMORIAL PRESCHOOL

several weeks before school begins so your child has time to adjust to

201 E. 4th Street | 270-684-7005

Age: 3 – 5 years old Classes & Cost: Young 3-year-old class held Monday/ Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $125 per month. Must be 3 by December 1, 2020.

Older 3-year-old class held Monday/Wednesday/ Friday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $145 per month or Tuesday/Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $125 per month. Must be 3 by April 1, 2020.

Young 4-year-old class held Tuesday/Wednesday/ Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $145 per month or Monday-Friday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $185 per month. Must be 4 by September 1, 2020.

Pre-Kindergarten (older 4-year-old to young 5-yearold) class held Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $145 per month or Monday through Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $165 per month or Monday through Friday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. for $185 per month.

After School program available from 11:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. for children enrolled in preschool and are 3 years old by April 1. Two days per week is $120 per month; 3 days per week is $180 per month; 4 days per week is $240 per month; 5 days per week is $300 per month.

the new schedule. ›› Find out about the potty procedures at your child’s school so you can review the situation with your child and make sure she is comfortable. ›› If your child is expressing anxiety, call the school to arrange for a visit to the school and to meet your child’s teacher in the classroom setting. ›› Read books about going to school and saying goodbye, such as:

“The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn

“David Goes to School” by David Shannon

“Will I Have a Friend?” by Miriam Cohen

“First Day of School” by Anne Rockwell

“When I Miss You” by Cornelia Maude Spelman

“Take a Kiss to School” by Angela McAllister

“It’s Time for Preschool” by Esme Raj Codell

“A Pocketful of Kisses” by Audrey Penn

›› Better yet, make your own book at home about the new preschool experience your child is about to begin. You could even take photos of the school or of your child in front of the school and add text like: “This is Avery at school. This is her favorite t-shirt. This is Mommy picking up Avery when school is over.” ›› Tell stories about when you went to school and share how you felt about it. Find childhood pictures of yourself and other adults in your child’s life and talk about the photos. ›› Most importantly, remember that separation is a process. Expect

*While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, please contact the individual programs to verify all details.

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. February // March 2020

that your child (and you) will need time to feel comfortable with the new situation.

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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34 OWENSBORO PARENT

. February // March 2020

PAID ADVERTORIAL OWENSBORO HEALTH HEALTHPARK

Introducing Parisi Speed School P

arents work hard every day to keep up with their children.

deter burnout and lessen injury risk by limiting athletes to

Now, in partnership with the Parisi Speed School, the

two or three classes per week, which are broken down into

Owensboro Health Healthpark wants to help your kids move

four 15-minute increments consisting of warmup, application,

faster than ever.

foundation and cooldown.

Parisi Speed School is a rising youth sports training program

The benefits of Parisi also extend beyond the field or court,

with a rapidly expanding national presence. Owensboro Health

and even beyond health. Sharp and the other performance

now offers exclusive access to the region’s only Parisi program.

coaches put great emphasis on improving the self-confidence

The school’s training focuses on the athletic fundamentals of

of young people

speed, agility, mobility, acceleration, power and strength, which

Head Coach and Project Manager Seth Sharp says transcend all major sports.

Young athletes ages 7-22 have the opportunity to work with

certified Parisi sports performance coaches to improve those attributes and achieve athletic goals.

Such goals may include general improvement of sports

performance, making their sports team or moving up to varsity play, but Parisi is not limited to those goals, nor to only athletes.

Sharp said anyone can drastically benefit from speed training.

“Especially in today’s world where we’re seated a lot when

“We’re working to improve speed, but we’re also empowering

young athletes,” Sharp said.

The program has proven results, with hundreds of students

moving on to become professional athletes. Significant names include Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olson, US Women’s National Soccer Team midfielder Tobin Heath and the 2008 NFL Draft no. 2 overall pick Chris Long.

Parisi Speed School classes are available six days a week to

maximize the opportunities kids have and to work with various fast-paced sports schedules.

we’re in downtime, increasing activity through mobility and

sports-related exercise pays huge dividends in being healthier,”

weekday evenings and Saturdays. Classes serve a maximum of

Sharp said.

10 students to ensure each gets optimal attention and focus.

Another key area of focus for the speed school’s performance

Sports performance coaches work with athletes on multiple

The official grand opening of the Parisi Speed School at

coaches is injury prevention.

the Owensboro Health Healthpark is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on

“The stronger the body is, the harder it’s going to be to

February 15. Demos, dietitians and orthopedic providers will be

break down,” Sharp said. “Sports performance training plays a

available. The community is invited to attend the event and see

huge role in injury resiliency.”

firsthand what the Parisi Speed School can do for your children.

RSVP by calling Seth at 270-688-4878.

In fact, even the trainings themselves are designed to

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

35

36 OWENSBORO PARENT

. February // March 2020

A POPPING

SUCCESS

By Laura Murphy • Photos by Jessica Hall

W

hen first cousins Rickey Hall

to customers. The boys say their product can

and Charlie Moore were just 4

be popped in a skillet or put it in the microwave

years old, they started their own

in a brown paper sack, but it’s best with just a

business. Born just six weeks apart, the pair

little butter and salt.

became close not just as family, but as business

partners with their successful venture, Rickey

ideal for 8-year-old boys, who do not have to

and Charlie’s Old Fashioned Popping Corn.

tend to it every day and can focus efforts on

the weekends rather than school days.

“It’s fun because we get to see each other

Popcorn is a low maintenance crop, so it is

and get to work and sell our popcorn,” Rickey

said, adding that the business duo has not

and the boys have split their earnings 50-

had any problem getting along, and split their

50, the first year was a little different. In the

profit evenly.

fall, about the time that they started picking,

Charlie was diagnosed with cancer.

As a way to instill work ethic in their young

And while every year has been profitable

boys, Rickey and Charlie’s parents began

“We were coming back from picking

looking for a project for them to work on. After

popcorn one night and Rickey had overheard

brainstorming several ideas, they landed on

people talking about Charlie’s treatments and

popcorn as the perfect business for their sons.

him going back and forth to Vanderbilt. He

“I grew up on a family farm down in Logan

told me that he wanted to give all the money

County,” said Rickey’s dad, Chad Hall. “ I was

they had earned to Charlie. He figured it cost a

thinking what could Rickey do 70 miles away

bunch of money for treatment of cancer,” Chad

and still have ownership with it.”

said.

With a grandfather who farms and raises

In this moment, it was obvious that the

row crop, it was decided that the two boys

project was working. Teaching the boys about

would raise natural popping corn on about an

hard work, giving back and discipline were all

acre of land.

the reasons that the family believed in finding

“We grow the corn and then pick it,”

a project for their children.

explained Charlie. “Then we take it to the shop

and shell it off the cob.”

$1,800, or $900 a piece. Rickey gave it all to

Charlie. Now nearly four years later, Charlie is

After harvesting the crop, the boys bag

their product in 2-pound increments to be sold

The first year, the crop earned a profit of

healthy and back at the popcorn business.

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

37

During the second year of their

“Ethically you

dont

sell

an

Both boys’ parents admit that,

business, the boys hustled and

inferior product,” Chad said. “That

like any other kids, there are some

found support from the community.

was something the boys had to

times when Rickey and Charlie

Suzanne

learn.”

may complain about the work, like

Farms put Rickey and Charlie’s Old

This season marks the fifth time

saying it’s too hot outside. However,

Fashioned Popping Corn in her

planting and harvesting the crop

because they love working together

Community Supported Agriculture

and both of the boys say they enjoy

and interacting with people, they see

program for fall deliveries and their

what they do.

Rickey and Charlie’s Old Fashioned

product made it to the farmer’s

“I like to tell people about

Popping Corn only growing in the

market.

farming,” Rickey said, adding that

future.

Both boys put money in the

one of his marketing strategies has

“The boys love being on the

bank and chose to reinvest in their

been to set up a table at his school’s

farm; for them to have a crop to go

business by upgrading some of

agriculture day. He not only got

out to that’s not their granddad’s or

their

years

to sell his popcorn, but he also got

their dad’s is amazing,” Chad said.

ago, Rickey gave a presentation to

to teach his friends about how to

“This is teaching them structure,

Independence Bank, where his dad

harvest a crop.

responsibility and discipline. They

Chad works, that led to the creation

Charlie said he likes picking the

get to learn through this project

of the bank’s Little Patriots Savings

corn the most because shelling the

the foundation of how to conduct

Club.

corn can be tough.

themselves in the future.”

But

Cecil

White

equipment.

each

of

Several

year,

Cecil

success

or

“I like growing it and looking at

Sales have continued to increase

struggle relies on the weather.

it with my Daddy,” Charlie said.

as consumers learn about the unique

And that isn’t the only family

product and the two now 8-year-old

the quality of the popcorn, because

time Charlie enjoys through the

boys are working hard behind the

they only want to offer their

popcorn business. He also sets

name. To reach more customers,

customers the best. One year, they

up each Wednesday after school

the business has rented a booth at

put in the work but didn’t make as

at the farmer’s market with his

Preservation Station, used word of

much money because of the weather.

grandmother.

mouth and also created their own

The boys said they had to learn

38 OWENSBORO PARENT

. February // March 2020

Facebook page.

As far as future goals or plans, the boys say

they just want to keep selling popcorn.

“By 10 they may be burnt out on it and ready to

play sports -- it will be up to them to keep going or not,” Chad said. “It is something that we as parents decided we wanted our kids to do to learn life lessons.”

Chad says he is glad the boys are getting

exposed to this hard work even though they don’t actually live on a farm.

For more information, visit their page, Rickey

& Charlie’s Old Fashioned Popping Corn on Facebook.

OP

LAURA MURPHY is an eighth grade LA teacher at Daviess County Middle School. She has three kids who keep her life interesting; Jonah, Lily and Josiah. She survives on Grape Spark, Jon Gordan books and all things Grumpy Cat.

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

39

LITTLE GIRLS

Big Dreams

By Laura Murphy // Photos by Jamie Alexander

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. February // March 2020

Sisters Jocelynn and Lillian Magan have made a name for themselves with their jewelry business, Mary & Milvie.

M

eet Jocelynn Magan. At just 17

years old, she’s accomplished

ability to shop online via Instagram and

quite a lot. Jocelynn, a junior at Ohio

Facebook, with the option to have items

County High School, has a part time job,

shipped. Recently the sisters reached

is a varsity golfer for the Lady Eagles

more than 1,000 followers on Facebook.

and runs her own business alongside her

Their online presence has led to serving

sister.

customers out of state. Orders have

Lillian Magan keeps an equally

come in from as far as Pennsylvania.

impressive schedule. At just 12 years

old, she is a member of the cheerleading

to sell their products at local festivals

squad and volleyball team at Ohio

such as the Hartford Street festival.

County Middle School. The duo has been

This allows them to reach customers in

creating their own jewelry and running

multiple ways via social media, word of

their own business for four years.

mouth and in physical locations as well.

“We were looking for the perfect

boutique and got super frustrated. We

going. We want to expand and have an

can remember our mom asking us what

official website. We are in the process of

we were going to do about it,” Jocelynn

making one,” Jocelynn said. “We would

said.

like to keep expanding and go to more

cities like out of Kentucky.”

Although it may have been a rhetorical

Mary and Milvie offers customers the

The duo has also set up pop-up shops

“As far as growing, we want to keep

question at the time, the thought led to

The

the sisters creating Mary and Milvie, a

learned to split the work fairly. Jocelynn

fashion-focused small business selling

makes half the jewelry ands she is also

a variety of handmade jewelry and

in charge of deliveries since she now has

recently offering a few unique flannel

her driver's license. Lillian, who makes

tops as well.

most of the social media posts, creates

“Mary and Milvie is a family name,”

the other half of the jewelry. Their mom,

Jocelynn said. “We chose to use these

Jessica Magan, says she couldn’t be more

names to represent our business.”

proud of her daughters.

Although the girls do offer their

“I love their motivation, their self

unique pieces online, they also sell their

discipline. They work together as an

jewelry in four different boutiques in the

effective sister entrepreneurial team,”

area including Country Home on the way

Jessica said.

to Owensboro, Fleners MSC (Main Street

Collections) in Morgantown, and both

bracelets, spoon rings, chokers, long

Shepherd’s Market and Persimmon in

necklaces and custom keychains. The

Beaver Dam. Their future plans include

adult line, Mary and Milvie, carries their

expanding their line of products in other

business name, while the kids line Little

local boutiques in the area.

Lovies, was also selected based on a

young

entrepreneurs

have

Mary and Milvie offers handmade

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

41

family name.

school. A few years ago, the sisters

extra income, she says she is doing

Custom pieces can be created

put their jewelry in a competition

something that she enjoys.

for athletic events such as bracelets

to support their school as part of a

for moms to wear during football

National Beta Club convention. While

business, the sisters realize that their

season or baseball team orders with

they didn’t win, they described it as an

the athlete’s numbers on each piece.

honor just to be asked to compete.

Charms can be added to bracelets or

Each year Mary and Milvie has

necklaces for special events too, such

experienced greater success than

as a high school or college graduation.

the year before. For each of their four

“I made a necklace for a friend

years in business, a new boutique has

student with bracelets all the way

with a megaphone because she is a

agreed to pick up their product line to

up her arm and necklaces stacked

cheerleader,” Jocelynn said.

sell. The sisters say they are excited to

around her neck. Lillian loved to craft.

and

be making their own money, as each

So much, that she said her parents

great

girl already has future plans in mind.

gave her an entire room in the house

for sustaining their business over

“I have a savings account and I

dedicated just for her creations.

the long haul, the sisters have also

want to save money for a good car. I

enjoyed filling larger group orders.

plan to go to WKU just like my parents

Their biggest order to date was two

did,” Lillian said.

hundred pieces created for a local

Now that Jocelynn can drive,

church for the “Women of Worth”

she jokes that her Mary and Milvie

conference. The keychains included a

paycheck is her Taco Bell money.

town. I would like to give a shout out

scripture and a cross.

She also says it’s helpful to have the

to all the boutiques who gave us a

Their entrepreneurship has also

extra income to pay for gas and have a

chance. We were just little girls with

led to them having opportunities in

little spending money. Aside from the

big dreams,” Lillian said.

While returning

individual customers

42 OWENSBORO PARENT

orders are

. February // March 2020

Reflecting on their early start in

gift for fashion and creating was always there. As a little girl, Jocelynn remembers loving jewelry. She found a picture of herself as a grade school

“My favorite part of our business

is the networking and always meeting new people. It’s awesome how people are able to support local in a small

OP

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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. February // March 2020

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

planning

for the

future When I grow up, I’m going to be an

astronaut!

February // March 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

5 WAYS TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

WH I LE S TIL L L IVING IN TH E P R E S E N T

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UNDERSTAND YOUR FAMILY FINANCES.

LIMIT YOUR MONTHLY BILLS.

PLAN TO BE SPONTANEOUS.

This means understanding what you spend now to understand how to save for the future. Analyze your current spending/ saving patterns and habits.

Do you really need all those Starbucks drinks?

Isolate it in terms of what you spend a week. Then you can catch things you may spend too much on, and see the impacts of leaner weeks too.

Try to limit unnecessary bills. Do you really need the newest phone? Is the highest speed internet really worth that much money?

Align your bills with your family’s priorities and goals.

If you want to be more active as a family, maybe you don’t need satellite TV. If you want to be more present with your kids, then maybe you don’t need that much data on your phone.

This may sound contradictory, but this can be a life changer. Analyzing your spending can be exhausting and stressful.

Build in a little wiggle room to allow some time for your family to relax and have fun without the pressure of wasting hard-earned money. That way you can still be spontaneous when you want to be, but with a built in cushion!

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4 THINK OF YOUR FINANCIAL STATUS THE WAY YOU WOULD YOUR HEALTH STATUS. As in, take it seriously. The way your health needs regular check-ins and checkups, as well as maintenance, you will see how your planning/ saving needs tweaking. And with your diligence, greater financial stability brings better overall health – financially and emotionally.

5 DON’T DO IT ALONE. Commit to these goals with your spouse. If you are a single parent, find a friend that can walk through this challenge with you and hold you accountable. And be sure to include your kids in the conversations of making financial priorities and your goals of spending less and saving more. Showing them your commitment to financial freedom will pay dividends in the long run.

OP

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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

Your Child’s First Dental Visit PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF OWENSBORO

D

id you know that cavities in primary teeth are the most common chronic disease in children? We, as pediatric dentists, believe that our primary goal is not to restore (fix) teeth, but it is to prevent tooth decay. We strongly advocate and encourage your child see a pediatric dentist by the age of 1 for their first dental visit. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) introduced the concept of the “Dental Home,” which is the ongoing relationship between the dentist who is the primary dental care provider and the patient, and includes comprehensive oral health care, beginning no later than age one. An infant oral health exam is simple, easy and effective.

erupted teeth when they are susceptible to decay including a new material that can completely stop the decay process.

We will provide a comprehensive assessment for oral diseases and conditions.

We will provide an individualized preventive dental health plan based upon caries risk assessment.

Anticipatory guidance about growth and development (teething, digit, or pacifier habits).

A plan for acute dental trauma and a contact after hours for it.

Dietary counseling and advice for a healthy lifestyle.

A parent might wonder… what will they do during our first dental visit?

We will show you child friendly techniques to properly brush and floss their teeth. We may even attempt to polish/clean their teeth.

We can apply higher concentrations of fluorides to the newly

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Referrals to other health care specialists when appropriate.

The age one dental appointment is the most crucial visit for children, especially if this is your first child. It helps set parameters and expectations for you as a parent. Drs. Crews and Gilbert both realize as parents that raising children is very challenging, and we look forward to being your child’s new dental home.

Be Prepared GAVIN C. ROBERTS, KY FARM BUREAU INSURANCE

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nsurance! Everyone hates discussing it and paying for it; but I love it because I love being able to see lives put back together the best they can be after loss. You see, I am your local Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Agent, and I, along with Kentucky’s #1 Property and Casualty Insurance Company, have the opportunity and ability to help you plan your future. There will be a day, a bad day, that you will experience, and you will want to make sure you have prepared properly. Loss is all around us, how you have prepared for it, is how you will have to handle it. The Boy Scout Motto is very important, “Be Prepared”, are you? Are you confident in how you are prepared?

Just going through the motions, paying premiums, and not understanding how and what you are prepared for can be reckless and detrimental if you have not chosen to prepare for the future properly. Let me help you by doing what I love doing everyday- reviewing coverages and making recommendations that benefit “YOU”!

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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

Planning Your Child’s Dental Care: Setting Them Up for Success BLUEGRASS DENTAL

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rom the moment your child is born, you worry about every sound they make, every step they take, and every bump or bruise they get. Their health and happiness is your number one priority. Protecting your child’s teeth is one of the first steps you can take to ensure a lifetime of good health. At Bluegrass Dental, Dr. Joshua Stamper and his team take this very seriously, and aim to provide you all the resources you need to feel confident about your child’s oral health

WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD VISIT THE DENTIST? It’s important to start a regular routine with your dentist early in your child’s life. The American Dental Association recommends their first visit should occur within six months after their first tooth, but no later than their first birthday.

This allows your child to start to build a positive relationship with the dentist since these visits are typically very easy, and if executed properly, can ease a lot of future dental anxiety your child could potentially develop.

DOES MY CHILD NEED TO SEE A SPECIAL TYPE OF DENTIST? Many parents are often confused on whether or not their child needs to see a Pediatric Dentist or if they can simply go to the family’s General Dentist. At Bluegrass Dental, we respect the needs and wants of a busy modern family, so we strive to provide all the resources necessary to care for not only the comprehensive dental needs of the parents, but also their children. At Bluegrass Dental, not only do we not mind seeing children, we welcome it. We prioritize family style appointments so both parents and children can receive care in the same day, and even utilize a therapy dog to help the child associate their visit with the dentist as a positive one. Now should your child be one of the small percentage that needs extensive work or special behaviors needs met, we can gladly help you arrange for care with the best pediatric dentists that fit your child’s unique needs.

START SOONER THAN LATER You should begin your child’s oral care even before their first tooth. After feedings, wipe their gums with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush. Don’t use toothpaste yet. Once their first tooth

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comes in, you can focus on brushing with a non-fluoridated toothpaste, the amount should be no more than the size of a pea.

LET THEM BRUSH THEMSELVES (WITH SUPERVISION) Once your child hits two, you may begin to let them brush for themselves, but make sure you supervise them, and even go back and continue to help them brush. The biggest mistake I see in my pediatric patients is unsupervised brushing. Just because your child is 5 or 6 doesn’t mean they should be brushing without help or supervision quite yet. The majority of children simply do not have the dexterity and a lot of times the patience to effectively brush. If your child is resistant to toothbrushing at these young ages, try making it a game. At our office we often tell children we are looking for hidden treasures behind their teeth with toothbrushes.

MAKE IT A NON-NEGOTIABLE PART OF THEIR DAILY ROUTINE School aged children thrive on routine. Make before bed brushing and flossing a part of their daily routine early on. Join them in the bathroom and make your oral care something you do together. Doing this early on will create effective brushing and flossing habits that will continue to make their dental visits easy and fun for everyone involved.

CHOOSE A DENTIST THEY CLICK WITH Choosing who oversees your child’s dental health is a big decision. Take time when deciding who will click best with your family, and aim for a dentist that values your wants and needs as a busy modern family. Do not sacrifice either your or your child’s dental care because its too much work to find a dentist that can see your entire family at the same time. Strive to find a dentist that can meet all your dental needs. At Bluegrass Dental, we preach comfort and ease. From heated and massaging dental chairs, family style appointments with a staff that loves children, to a fun loving therapy dog to help put your little one as ease, we would love for you to consider us for the responsibility of caring for your family’s dental needs.

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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

Plan for Happy Healthy Smiles GREATER OWENSBORO PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

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t’s no secret that developing healthy habits for our children at a young age allows them to thrive as they grow and mature.

Your child’s diet and oral hygiene play a significant role not only in their oral health but also their overall health.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry reports that by age five 60% of children have experienced cavities making it the most common chronic disease of childhood according to the Center for Disease Control. Since February is recognized as National Children’s Dental Health Month, this is a great time to discuss how you can help your child avoid this largely preventable disease.

When it comes to diet, we have all heard that candy and soft drinks cause cavities, but that is a small part of the equation. We must also limit consumption of starchy snacks that stick to our teeth such as crackers, fruit snacks, pretzels, etc.

The same holds true with sugary beverages including juice, milk, sports drinks, energy drinks, soda and others. While it is ok to have these as a treat occasionally, it is important to avoid grazing habits to protect our teeth. Frequent snacking or sip-

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ping of sugary drinks throughout the day keeps the amount of cavity causing acids in our mouth high which prolongs the time our teeth are broken down. Thus, we recommend limiting these items to mealtime and drinking water throughout the rest of the day.

“So, when should I start brushing my child’s teeth?” It’s a common question and the answer is actually as soon as their first tooth erupts since dental decay can begin this early. For 0-3 year olds, a rice-grain sized amount of toothpaste containing fluoride is recommended and for 3-6 year olds, a pea sized amount is appropriate. For optimal prevention, the American Dental Association encourages an oral examination by a dentist for every child by age one. According to the journal Pediatrics, doing so will result in 40% lower dental costs for your child by age five.

At Greater Owensboro Pediatric Dentistry, we stand ready to serve all your child’s oral healthcare needs and to help them achieve a lifetime of happy healthy smiles.

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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

Why should you invest in a home now?

ADVICE FROM CHARLIE DAWSON, PRINCIPAL BROKER AND CO-OWNER OF TRIPLE CROWN REALT Y GROUP

INTEREST RATES ARE CURRENTLY VERY LOW. The lower the rate, the lower the payment. As your income increases, you may elect to pay extra, thus paying off the house much faster.

PAYMENTS ARE USUALLY CHEAPER THAN RENT.

HOUSE PRICES TEND TO RISE OVER TIME. This is one of the best investments you can make. In time, you can either sell for a profit or use the equity to borrow money for other things, like home improvements.

PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP. Unlike a rental property, you can redecorate or remodel as you chose. You might even raise a garden. Home improvements have added benefits of increases in property value.

Rather than put money into the landlord’s pocket, use it for other expenses. Plus, with fixed rate mortgages, you won’t have to worry about increases.

YOU WILL PAY LESS TAX. You can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage from your personal income, resulting in less income tax paid.

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INVESTMENTS. Rather than sell when you are ready to “move up,” some homeowners turn their property into rental property. This can create a nice income stream, especially when it’s paid off! I bought my first house in 1997 and I still own it! Of course, I didn’t stop there, I have several others, which will make a nice retirement supplement someday.

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Discover

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

The Book

Nook

Photo by Jamie Alexander

All of these books are available for check out at the Daviess County Public Library.

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DISCOVER • THE BOOK NOOK

I Love You Because You're You

Mouse's First Valentine

by Liza Baker

by Lauren Thompson

In a poem about a Mama Fox's love for her cub, I Love You Because

Early one morning,

You're You captures the many moods of all children, reassuring them

Mouse follows

of their parents' abiding affection and approval. This book is sure to

his sister

become a family favorite—and an enduring classic of the genre.

around the house.

She's making

Here Comes Valentine Cat

something

by Deborah Underwood

It's red and lacy

special.

Cat does NOT like Valentine's Day. It's much too mushy, and no way is

and very pretty.

he making anyone a valentine—especially not his new neighbor, Dog.

Snip! Snip! Snip!

Dog refuses to respect the fence. He keeps tossing over old bones

What will it be?

and hitting Cat in the head! But just as Cat’s about to send Dog an angry “valentine” telling him exactly what he can do with his bones, Dog throws a ball over the fence. What is Dog playing at?

Snowy Valentine by David Petersen Step out into a snowy Valentine's Day with Jasper the bunny as he searches the forest valley for a special gift for his loved one. In his picture-book debut, David Petersen, the Eisner Award-winning creator of Mouse Guard, tells a delightful tale that becomes the perfect way to say “I love you.”

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Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli One wintry day, a postman delivers a mysterious package with a big pink bow to a lonely man named Mr. Hatch. “Somebody loves you” the note says. After some time, Mr. Hatch discovers just who his secret admirer is and, in doing so, enjoys the biggest surprise of his life!

OP

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DISCOVER • Q&A WITH CHRISTINA DALTON, MSSW, CSW

parental control I have an 8-year-old son and he has ADHD and “ anxiety. My husband and I have worked hard to help him cope and to teach him to focus a little better.

He gets very frustrated sometimes and it comes out in the form of yelling, acting out and acting like a toddler. Do you have any suggestions for ways to help with his frustrations?

”

a:

I think you described what your son experiences really well and this does sound like it would be very frustrating to anyone.

The first piece of advice I always give is to make sure and speak with your medical professional about the best course of treatment. A child with ADHD has differences in brain activity that can alter attention, being able to sit still and impulse control just to name a few examples. You add anxiety on top of that and this can produce symptoms that we cannot see sometimes.

Kids might feel nervous, worried or feel afraid. When you look at this, it is easy to see where he might feel frustrated.

Some ideas that work well for kids with ADHD are using visual reminders and timers. Their brains can become so involved in what they are doing and that is where you may see a lack of focus on things around them or being unable to multitask. The good thing about how their brains work is when they are intense and working hard, their minds are so smart and brilliant. The best thing you can do for your son is to help him harness that energy and with time, he will not get as frustrated.

Another tip that I have had success with is helping

the child become organized. Children with ADHD struggle with organization, so the more that you can help them in this area could help reduce frustration levels.

I use a technique called “grounding” with children who can get upset and I am trying to calm down to get back to a state that we can talk. This technique can help with anxiety too. Being grounded can bring us back to what is going on with our bodies and help us feel connected. There is a strategy called the Rainbow Walk. You can do it inside or go outside. The point is try and find something that represents every color of the rainbow. By doing this activity, it brings us back and connects us to the environment around us. Grounding can help clear our minds, recharge us and calm our emotions. Another grounding technique is to involve the five senses. You have to write down five things you see, four things you feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell and one thing you can taste.

This is a calming technique that can help get through frustrating moments and tough times.

I hope some of these techniques can help when there are times that your son gets frustrated.

OP

CHRISTINA DALTON, MSSW, CSW is a Family Resource Center Coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools.

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DISCOVER • ADVICE

Helping Your Marriage

Survive Parenthood

By Scott Kenworthy

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arriage is one of the most rewarding and challenging relationships a person can enter.

Parenting, too. Through the course of my work, I have met a number of couples experiencing a difficult stretch in their relationship who believed having a child might save their marriage. The sentiment makes sense. By rallying around the responsibility of raising a baby, they imagine they’ll set aside their disagreements and grow closer.

The reality is, even if you have a strong marriage, children always make things more complicated.

When you bring a life into the world you go

from attempting to make two lives function as one unit, to now trying to fit together three, four, or more. You’re also doing so with less sleep, less expendable income, and more stress. Ever try to juggle five knives while blindfolded? Sometimes parenting can feel like that.

So, what can you do? Are there any practices

that will help your marriage survive parenthood?

Fortunately, the answer is yes. None of them are rocket science. But just because they’re simple solutions, doesn’t mean they’ll be easy. Each will take commitment and sacrifice, but they can help you and your spouse grow closer together amidst the challenges of parenting.

FIND TIME FOR DATES, EVEN IF SLIGHTLY REDEFINED.

A friend once told my wife and I that when

you don’t have kids every night is date night.

Though I don’t totally agree, once we had a child, I understood what he meant. Date night looks different now. Nevertheless, it’s important for you and your spouse to set aside time for one another.

You were committed to your partner before you were committed to your child. The love and security that results from making your marriage a priority will only benefit your kids. Identify a trusted person or two to babysit, develop a budget, and commit to a schedule, even if it’s only a time or two a month.

You and your kids will be glad you did.

KEEP COMMUNICATING.

After a long day, when the kids are finally in

bed, your work is done, and the dishes are put away, it can be tempting to plop on the couch and watch

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Netflix until you drift off to sleep. Somedays, that may be exactly what you need. Realize, however, that your rhythms impact your marriage. Find time to relax, yes. But also find time to communicate with one another. Just because you’re now parents doesn’t mean you’re no longer people. You each still have stresses, joys, fears, and questions you need to process. You still have dreams to share. You still need to laugh. You still need to make love. Find time for uninterrupted communication with one another, even if it’s only 15 minutes before bed each day. You may choose to make one day a week “check-in” day, where after the kids go to bed you spend the rest of the evening checking in with how the other person is doing emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. Find what works for you and stick with it.

PURSUE COUNSELING OR COACHING.

Though there is less stigma with seeking help now than

there has been in the past, the idea still exists that seeing a counselor is a sign of weakness. On the contrary, working on your blind spots only makes you stronger. Ever year toprated high school athletes underperform as they transition to college. They arrive on campus with great accolades, but they struggle to transfer their skills to the next level. Often the reason is that they failed to work on their weaknesses.

They assume because they could outmuscle or outrun opponents in high school, they don’t need to work on their post moves or ball handling. What happens, however, is the athletes willing to work on their game end up surpassing them. The same is true in marriage. Just because at one time you had a strong marriage doesn’t mean you’re ready for every new challenge or change that comes your way. You have blind spots that a professional counselor or experienced coach can help you with. My wife and I have both benefited from counseling at times in our life and marriage. You can as well. If you’re worried about the cost, insurance will often help with counseling expenses. Many churches also offer marriage ministries or coaching for free.

It’s great to show your spouse you love them by buying

them something nice on Valentine’s Day. But the willingness to invest in your marriage through intentional time, communicating, and counseling is the gift that really keeps on giving.

OP

SCOTT KENWORTHY has served as the lead pastor of Owensboro Christian Church since 2013. He and his wife, Sarah, were born and raised in Indianapolis, 10 miles apart, but met in Knoxville, TN. In his free time, he enjoys sports, reading, movies, board games and quoting 90s sitcoms.

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Out & About

EVEN T S AN D ACTIVITIES FOR OWE NSBORO FAMILIES

12 Local Things to Do

ColorBlast 5k // Photo by AP Imagery

This Season

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OUT & ABOUT

12 local things to do

this season 1

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NIGHT TO SHINE F EB. 7 OWEN S B O R O CONV E N T ION CE N TER

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Life Community Church in Owensboro is excited to partner once again with the Tim Tebow Foundation to host Night to Shine 2020. Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience for people with special needs ages 14 and older — all for free. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6 p.m. Visit Night to Shine on Facebook for more details.

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Finding Neverland FEB. 18 RIV ERPA RK CE NTE R

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The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, this breathtaking smash “captures the kid-at-heart.” Based on the criticallyacclaimed Academy Award® winning film, Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible, and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. Tickets are now on sale online at OwensboroTickets.com or by calling the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2787.

DANCE BATTLE EXTRAVAGANZA PRESENTED BY ODT FEB. 22 | RIVE RPA RK CE NTE R

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Dance Battle Extravaganza will feature Giordano Dance Chicago, Owensboro Dance Theatre and Community Tri-State Competitors. Giordano Dance Chicago is America’s original jazz dance company, captivating audiences worldwide with dynamic performances, diversity and wide appeal of its repertoire. The second act will be an amusing and friendly dance battle fundraiser between tristate community groups. Each group will battle to win a grand prize of $1,000. Competing rounds will include; first responders, schools, banks, car dealerships, fitness centers, nonprofits, healthcare facilities, government, multimedia and more! Each round winner will win $100 to go to a charity of their choice! There is also a social media community favorite award of $500! Come cheer, laugh, and vote while supporting Owensboro Dance Theatre and those in the community! Tickets are available by calling the RiverPark Center Box Office.

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4

2020 KENTUCKY SCHOLASTIC 3D ARCHERY STATE INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIP FEB. 28 - M AR CH 1 OWEN S B ORO CONV E N T ION C ENTE R

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Over 500 archers from across the state of Kentucky will compete for the state championship in their division and class. Also, the archers will compete for the Kentucky Indoor Shooter of the Year which is based on competition points earned during indoor regional tournaments that will be combined with their indoor state score. The event is open to the public and we encourage people to come to the Owensboro Convention Center with their children to watch archers from across the state compete in one of the fastest growing sports.

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S PEND VA L E NT I NE’S DAY WIT H T H E KID S!

Valentine’s Day is a great day for couples, but that isn’t reality for all parents. Single moms and dads — here are some great ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a family. Even couples that do celebrate Valentine’s Day together can add these fun events to their celebrations in February.

JU MP F O R J OY

Elite Air is for sure a kids favorite in Owensboro.

Family jump nights are available. Why not spend Valentine’s Day jumping with the ones you love the most?

SEE A M OV IE

BE E MINE PART Y

LIBRARY LOVE

Check out the new Malco Owensboro Cinema Grill. A movie date can always be a sweet treat!

Join Western Kentucky Botanical Garden for their Feb. 1 Bee Mine St. Valentine’s Party for kids of all ages.

Children will have the opportunity to make Valentine’s Day cards for anyone they wish. It’s free and begins at 10 a.m. in the Education Classroom.

Daviess County Public Library has so many things for families to enjoy. Did you know you can check out instruments, telescopes, games and puzzles? The Library is a great place to explore new hobbies as a family.

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OUT & ABOUT

6

Cherish F EB. 29 RI V ER PA R K C EN T E R

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Saturday, February 29, 2020 from 1PM-6PM at RiverPark Center Cherish is a one-day marriage event with Focus on The Family. Features Greg & Erin Smally, who have led marriage seminars worldwide and are passionate to equip couples with the knowledge, skills and insights necessary to enjoy life together. Come worship with an all-community worship team and laugh together with national Christian comedian Dennis Swanberg, “The Swan.” This event will be memorable and everlasting! Reserve your place today online or call the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2770.

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Second Annual Wendell Foster Half Marathon

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DEAR EDWINA, JR. M A RCH 6, 7, 13, 14 AT 7PM & MARCH 8, 15 AT 2PM TH E EM PR ES S T H E AT E R

{

Directed by Travis Chaney, this children’s musical is a girl power experience for a new generation! Edwina Spoonapple, 13 years old, leads neighborhood kids through a series of production numbers for the latest edition of her weekly advice- a-palooza! The result is a collection of songs about food, friends and growing up. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students. There will be a $2 surcharge on all tickets purchased at the door.

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MA R CH 14 SM OTH E RS PA RK

{

The second annual Wendell Foster Half Marathon presented

by Owensboro Health will offer a flat and fast route of Owensboro, Kentucky. The 13.1-mile race will be fully supported including some full and partial road closures.

The race will start and finish on the riverfront by beautiful Smothers Park. Late March offers cooler temperatures, perfect for the half marathon distance. There will be water stations conveniently placed along the course and the race will be professionally timed. Huge finisher medals will be given to those that complete the course. Plus, prize money will be awarded to the top competitors. Please visit www.wendellfoster.org/special-events/ for detailed information on how to register, course, awards, schedule, volunteer, packet pick up and much more.

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OWENSBORO HOME AND GARDEN SHOW MA RCH 7 10AM–5PM & MA RCH 8 10AM– 4PM OWEN S B O R O CON V EN TI O N C E NT E R

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Homeowners, get ready to plan your spring and summer projects! The Home Builders Association of Owensboro will have over 44,000 square feet of exhibitors showing the newest innovations in home design and remodeling ideas!

All aspects of building and remodeling will be on display!

Admission is $5 for Adults.

Children 12 and under are admitted Free.

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Pigtails & Cowlicks M ARC H 20-21 OWE NS BORO CONV ENTION CE NTE R

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Pigtails & Cowlicks Children’s Spring 2020 Consignment Sale offers area families the chance to shop from 425 families selling new or gently used items ALL for kids – from babies to teens! Clothing, toys, furniture, books, baby gear, shoes, boutique, and more. There is no admission fee to shop and the sale is open to the public.

Cash and debit/credit cards accepted. Times: Friday, March 20 (8am – 6pm); Saturday, March 21 (8am – 1pm) *most items 50% off!

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COLORBLAST 5K MA R CH 21 M ORE L A ND PA RK

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The Color Blast 5K is a fun family run/ walk color celebration to recognize the positive impact individuals with special needs have on our lives, to acknowledge their abilities, and help spread awareness!

The Color Blast 5K is brought to you by four Owensboro nonprofits, Puzzle Pieces, GRADSA, Dream Riders of KY and Team Karlie, whose common missions are to support and enhance the quality of life of those with disabilities. Participation in this event will 100% directly benefit these host organizations. Participants wear white and will be showered with a safe and non-toxic colored powder at each mile marker. The color fun continues to the After Party involving a foam finish. Students are $15 and adults are $25 until March 2. For packet pickup information and full race details see www.colorblast5k.org

OWENSBORO DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS

IN CONCERT FEATURING THE CIRCLE OF LIFE…A LION’S TALE

MA RCH 21 R I V ER PA R K C EN T E R

{

Hakuna Matata! Come enjoy The Circle of Life…A Lion’s Tale with no worries. Dance into the wild with all your favorite characters, vibrant costumes, elaborate digital moving backdrops, and flying animals! This timeless tale tells the story of a lion who must find and accept his roll and responsibility in life. Of course, he does this with help of friends he finds along the way. ODT dancers will be joined with professional dancers and loads of local talent! It’s gonna be the main event like no show was before, you won’t want to miss this brave adventure in the circle of life.

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OUT & ABOUT

kids

meal deals

EVERY DAY

Firehouse Subs – Up to 2 kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of an adult meal

MONDAY

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

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 – $1.99 kids meal (ages 12 & under) all day 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

THURSDAY 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 Lure Seafood & Grille – Free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée Wheatgrass Juice Bar – Free kids smoothie with adult purchase Long John Silver’s – $1.99 Kids meals all day

SUNDAY Beef 'O' Brady's – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with the purchase of an adult entrée from 4-8pm; dine-in only

Pizza Hut (South Frederica location) – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet from 4:30-7pm

Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal (10 & under) per adult entrée

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 McDonald’s – $1.99 Happy meals from 4-7pm; dine-in only . February // March 2020

Burger Theory (located in the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront) – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with purchase of an adult meal; breakfast, lunch & dinner

Pizza By the Guy – 1 free kids buffet for (ages 10 & under) with an adult purchase with a drink on Tuesdays from 5-8pm

Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only

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WEDNESDAY

O’Charley’s – Free kids meal (ages 10 & under) with the purchase of adult entrée

Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids (ages 10 & under) with adult purchase with a drink from 11:30am-2pm Firehouse Subs – Kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult Bar Louie – Kids eat free 11am - 7pm up to 2 kids per adult entrée; dine-in only

on the honor roll?

Bring your report card to these local restaurants & businesses for additional deals!

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 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.

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.

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.

*This list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation.

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FROM OUR READERS

VALENTINE BOXES Follow Owensboro Parent on Facebook to submit your photos!

SPONSORED BY

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FROM OUR READERS

VALENTINE BOXES Follow Owensboro Parent on Facebook to submit your photos!

SPONSORED BY

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FROM OUR READERS

Say What?

Our readers asked their kids following question:

“If you had a million dollars, what would be the first few things you would buy?”

“A house, a car and some Reese’s Peanut butter cups.”

“Oreos, a toy (Barbie), candy.”

- Ellanor, age 3

“Faster internet, new iPad and tons of candy.”

“Stuffed animals, blanket, toys.”

- Novalee, age 7

“First I would buy a raptor claw, then a Lamborghini, and then a box of gum with like a MILLION pieces of gum in it. And then if I had money leftover.... an iPad.” Collin, age 7

“A leg lamp like on Christmas Stor y.”

- Logan, age 13

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- Sabrina, age 9

- Cole, age 8

- Elijah, age 12

“Huge computer set up and biggest 3D printer ever.”

“New helmet, Barbies, art stuff!”

. February // March 2020

-Tennyson, age 5

“Guinea pig, new battery operated car, new car.”

- Raelyn, age 7

“Big house, tv, phone.”

- Cam, age 15

“Candy, iPhone 11, and a hydro flask with metal straws to save the turtles!”

- Lily, age 7

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