January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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Contents
Januar y // Februar y 2020
18
IN E VE RY ISSUE
MA KING IT
8 From the Editor
Pretend. Play. Pizza. We stopped by the Elder home for a tour of their latest playhouse creation.
17 DIY Snow Globe This winter craft is easy, fun
10 Student Spotlight
9 Around OBKY 12 Parent Profile
KE E PIN G IT REA L 13 A Timeless Message for 2020 Real life with Lora Wimsatt 14 Mom Moments with Jacy English
24
16 Make Room for the New
Living for Roxie Read Melody Wallace's moving tribute to Roxie Pickrell, the 13-year-old OMS student that recently lost her battle with cancer.
Scott Kenworthy reminds us to
(and Old)
and not too messy! 20 Rainbow Fortune Cookies Yummy, colorful, personalized — these treats are a perfect start to 2020!
SPECIA L A DV ERTISING SECTION
35 Hashtag Mom Fail Read why Jamie is not ashamed to let her kids play on her phone at dinner. 36 Kids Meal Deals
D ISCOV ER 39 The Reading Nook Discover the holidays with these seasonal books, all available at DCPL. 41 Parental Control Christina Dalton answers your most difficult parenting questions
29 Kids Dining Guide Eating out with kids can be tough! Check out the
bring the best of our past with
Owensboro Parent Kids Dining Guide for a quick reference to our readers' favorites kid-
us into the new decade.
friendly restaurants.
FROM THE REA D ERS 44 Snow Much Fun! Photos submitted to our Facebook page
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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10 YEAR CHALLENGE! WHAT WERE YOU
EDITORIAL DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY
DOING 10 YEARS AGO?
EDITOR
Ashley Sorce-Wedding
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
THEN
Andrea Roberson STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Christina Dalton Jacy English Jamie Johnson Scott Kenworthy Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt
“
Ten years ago we had just experienced our first Christmas as parents. Now, we are celebrating with four times the fun!
THEN
COPY EDITOR
Ashley Gleason
”
Do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you!
Jamie Alexander COVER KIDS
“
Olivia Tucker, 7 years old Daughter of Jeff & Desiree Tucker
In 2010, we were fresh out of college, having fun working together at our first 'real world' job. 10 years later and we're still work besties and still having fun!
Myles Sturgeon, 6.5 years old Son of Taylor and Kannetha Sturgeon
DISTRIBUTION
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Dave Mackey To add your business or organization to our distribution list, give us a call at 888-304-5416.
Email your suggestion to ashley@tannerpublishing.com
ADVERTISING
“
ONLINE
Brock Quinton Robert Williams
NOW
because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses and organizations who advertise. For more information about advertising call 888-304-5416 or email brock@tannerpublishing.com.
TANNER PUBLISHING CO. PUBLISHER
Jason Tanner
”
THEN
PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 888-304-5416
NOW
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”
Ten years ago I was working at an Alzheimers facility as Activities Coordinator. Now, as accounts director at Tanner Publishing, I'm still bringing the energy to the workplace!
owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent
ACCOUNT DIRECTORS
Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine
NOW
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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Ashley's : s g n i h T e t i r o Fav from the editor
I mentioned I just turned 33. Well, this was one of my favorite gifts that I got! Drew got me this delicate Kentucky necklace from Bella Ragazza along with a new Jackie Blue Handmade bracelet. I love supporting local businesses whenever I can, so this was a perfect birthday gift for me!
2020?! That doesn’t even seem real. It seems like some futuristic time you see portrayed in a movie. [I started to type… “I remember when 2000 rolled around and people thought Y2K meant the end,” but I figure that would make me sound old. And I just had my hair dyed for the first time — at the suggestion of my 8-year-old daughter — to get rid of all the grays starting to pop up. So, the last thing I want is to sound old. Although I did just turn 33, which is basically mid30s, which might as well round to 40. Wow, sorry for that tangent.] We just moved into Drew’s house, which is an older home built in the 1950s. We are slowly remodeling it, for both modern functions — I mean, I can’t live without a dishwasher — but also making the space feel more like us. A big part of that is the kids’ rooms, where I am encouraging them to take part. Avery painted her own artwork for her room (she is recently obsessed with hedgehogs) and this other piece was something we commissioned from Minh Best. We met Minh when we featured her in Owensboro Parent a few issues ago.
I am looking forward to all of the possibilities this new year — new decade — will bring. Reed will start kindergarten after a successful year in preschool. He has this new love for knowledge that I can’t wait to see grow at our favorite school — Meadow Lands Elementary. And Avery is growing into a young lady, figuring out the person she wants to be a little more each day. Now, that comes with a lot of sass and drama, don’t get me wrong, but her kind spirit shines. But I am probably most excited to grow together as a family in the coming months and years. Eating homecooked meals (that I somehow don’t burn) around our table. Filling our craft wall with fun creations. Painting walls and making our space our own in our new-tous home. Playing outside on the farm, with fresh air and fresh possibilities that our previous home in a neighborhood couldn’t offer.
Magformers — or “Mag-na-forms” as Reed calls them — are the best gift he has ever received. He plays with these things more than anything else. He started building the structures from the book that came with them, but has since built his own creations, using his imagination to come up with some really creative things!
Drew and I were married at the end of October. The pastor that married us told our guests that our ceremony, our marriage, our future centered on one word — family. October 26, 2019, was not just the day Drew and I said “I do,” but was the day that we became a family of four. It is my hope that this next year continues to build on what we have already established in these few weeks since the wedding day.
Have you all ever heard of Model Magic? I hadn’t either until we were slime shopping one day. Yes, I said slime shopping. My kids are slime obsessed. Does that ever go away? Anyway, we saw Model Magic and gave it a try. My two give it two thumbs up. It hasn’t replaced the slime or the desire to want to make new slime, but it has given us a better everyday, MUCH less messy, alternative.
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What does 2020 look like for your family? What do you want to accomplish? Become a healthier family with better food choices and exercise? Less screen time and more together time? Travel more or make time at home a priority? Decide what you want for your family in this new year and make it happen. After all, it will set the tone for the next decade.
Happy New Year!
Our wedding day was filled with rain and strong winds, until 30 minutes before the ceremony began, when the skies cleared, the sun shone and a rainbow appeared. But that was pretty symbolic for both of our lives to that point. It was a rough road for both of us prior to finding each other, but the sun always shines in the end. Photo credit: Jacqueline Jordan Photography
AROUND OBKY
FIFTH GRADER EARNS NATIONAL RACE TITLE
Local fifth grade student Camryn Edge started his running career when he was in kindergarten. As a member of the Meadow Lands Elementary School Running Club for the East Daviess County Elementary races, he often finished near the front of the pack. His parents say this is where his love for racing began. “He has more determination than anyone we know,” said his dad Seth Edge. He joined the DCMS cross country team last year after competing in a few local 5K races and showing great improvement each time he crossed the finish line. According to his parents, he wanted to continue to train and grow by setting goals for himself and working hard to make his goals. This year, Camryn won first place in the local Owensboro Parent Triathlon, had three firstplace wins during his cross country season, and placed top ten in the 8th grade and under City County meet. This accomplishment earned Edge first Team All City/County honors. Camryn took success to a new level during national competition in November. As a member of the Derby City Athletic Club, Edge got the chance to race in Shelbyville, Ind., for the Cross Country Coaches Youth National Championship. With nearly 300 athletes competing in the 9-10 year old division, the championship meet hosted runners from all across the United States. Edge was the first to cross the finish line, becoming the national champion with a 3K time of 11:08.
LIBRARY OPENS STORYWALK AT MORELAND PARK
Through a $6,850 grant from Owensboro Health, the Daviess County Public Library created an installation of StoryWalk, a literacy and physical activity tool that engages community members in reading children’s books in unique environments. Through a series of signs featuring sequential spreads from a children’s picture book, readers follow the story by walking along the path at Moreland Park. “So many families utilize the parks within our community. It seemed like a natural fit to install a StoryWalk at one of the city’s busiest parks,” said Shannon Sandefur, DCPL community engagement manager.“We hope that those who follow along with the StoryWalk will be inspired to read more and to visit the Library and learn more about the different products and services that we offer.” PHOTO BY AP IMAGERY
His finish earned him a spot on the ‘All American Team’ and first place runner on the 9-10 year old National Championship team Saturday.
EIGHT SETS OF TWINS TO GRADUATE FROM OWENSBORO CATHOLIC THIS YEAR Out of a class of 107 students, Owensboro Catholic High School will see eight sets of twins will graduate. The sixteen students all agreed that it has been fun being together in such a small graduating class and that one of the perks of being with other sets of twins is the relationship that being a twin creates.
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AROUND OBKY
Student Spotlight:
"KA LOW is an outstanding 8th grader for us here at iMiddle. She is a straight A student who is extremely motivated and passionate about a lot of different things. She has a strong interest in photography and at only 14 years old, she is already interested in seeking her first part-time job and is considering babysitting as an option." - Mark Moore, Director, iMiddle
"LOGAN GLENN is a senior who comes from a farm family. He's been very involved with Apollo's Future Farmers of America. He has a heart for helping others. Recently Apollo participated in the Sunrise Pep Rally with WFIE Channel 14 news. Leading up to the morning pep rally was a food drive for our community. Logan personally brought in 1,100 cans of food by himself! He reached out to some local agencies/community members and got lots of donations. He also helped students and staff with their donations brought to school by taking them to the storage area and organizing them. Logan is also our first student to be granted a morning Co-Op opportunity at Apollo. During 3rd period every day Logan is employed by the school and does all sorts of maintenance work for our building. He can be found cleaning, tidying up landscaping, and painting, to name a few jobs. He is so proud to earn a paycheck working for his school." - Cristy Dame, Guidance Counselor, Apollo High School 10 OWENSBORO PARENT
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PARENT PROFILE
Jenny Rickman TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. My name is Jenny Rickman. I am a first grade teacher at Highland Elementary and I am also a Rodan and Fields skincare consultant. I have a 10-year-old stepson named Ethan and a 3-year-old son, Noah. A little over two years ago, I became a single mom. My husband, Troy, battled mental illness, eventually losing that battle. My prayer is that God would use me to bless others in whatever way He so chooses, based on my personal experiences and struggles through these challenging times. It has definitely been a challenge moving forward, but has also been filled with many blessings.
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING THING ABOUT BEING A SINGLE MOM? I believe the most challenging thing about being a single mom is that there is no one to say “tag, you’re it” to – on those days when we as moms are exhausted from work and just need a break for a moment. I’m reminded again and again, though, that trying times will come and go and this season, too, shall pass. Enjoy all the memories along the way, because time flies much too fast!
THE MOST REWARDING? The most rewarding part of being a
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER SINGLE MOMS? Believe people when they say they are there for you. When someone offers help, take them up on their offer. When they say, “you are loved and supported,” they mean it! I have countless, loving relationships because of the support that God has placed in my life through many amazing people.
CAN YOU GIVE US AN EXAMPLE OF THE SUPPORT YOU FOUND IN THE COMMUNIT Y? One special family that God placed in our lives about two years ago was the Faught family. Ryan and Liz Faught have a daughter who was in my classroom when Troy passed away. Liz soon started inviting me to a women’s bible study at Owensboro Christian Church and over to their home. Months later, Liz and Ryan asked us the most pivotal question of all; something they had been praying about for a long time. God had laid a specific verse on their hearts – James 1:27 – “…to look after orphans and widows in their distress…” She and Ryan wanted to help – they felt led to ask if my family wanted to move in to their home. She explained that they would want nothing in return and we would have our own living space. She went on to say she would provide dinner every night and help whenever needed.
mom is all the moments that make me so proud. Though often I wish I could share those proud momma moments with their Dad, there is still great pleasure in all the milestones they both continue to meet! Ethan and Noah are amazing boys who are well rounded and thriving. One mother/son tradition that I have with Ethan is something that he actually initiated this past Valentine’s Day. As a tribute to his Dad (his birthday was on Valentine’s Day), he told me he would like to take ME to dinner for this holiday every year, as something special we do together! How precious! With Noah being so young, we are creating new traditions each year. I do believe it takes a village to raise children. I am grateful for the wonderful experiences we continue to have with Noah being part of the KB’s Kidzone Daycare family. He has been going there ever since he was four months old. They have done and continue to do a phenomenal job helping me raise and teach Noah.
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What Liz and Ryan didn’t know (and had no way of knowing – because it was at a different church I was visiting) was that I had just gone to the alter two weeks prior and given my finances to God, pleading for His help with my financial burdens, not knowing what to do or how things would or could change. He, of course, knew what was ahead. To some, their offer may seem like a no-brainer question, but to me, I really had to ponder it, to pray about it, to know for sure that it was what God had planned for my little family. With such huge changes, the last thing I really, selfishly wanted was another change, but knew after much prayer and consideration, that God had ordained it. He made it very clear that THIS was His plan all along. It became our reality in June of 2018. We have been blessed beyond measure by living with the Faughts. I am forever indebted to them for truly changing the course of our lives! Praise God for all of His provisions! I hope my story inspires many moms out there – single moms, married moms – to keep pressing on when days are hard and remember God has a beautiful plan and He is right there to help!
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
A Timeless Message
For 2020 By Lora Wimsatt
T
he whole idea of a “Happy New Year” can be a pretty confusing concept
to a child who can barely comprehend how long it is until “tomorrow,” or that everelusive “in a minute” – which, by the way, is always longer than an actual minute. No wonder the kids are confused.
But this year’s New Year is more exciting
than most, because we are moving into a whole new decade now as the 2020s begin.
For someone like me who is old enough
to remember when “The Year 2000” sounded like science fiction (OK Boomer), this is an opportunity to talk to my grandchildren
Photo by Jamie Alexander // Duncan, age 4
about how quickly time goes by.
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KEEPING IT REAL
They won’t listen, of course.
They’ll tune me out right around the
websites are magic, and you don’t really
just defies all understanding.
time I say something like “Christmas
even understand what the “internet” is or
seems to come around faster and faster
how it works.
felt when I realized my boss, my doctor, my
every year,” because in their experience, it
Your grandkids just take all this
mechanic – all those professionals whom I
takes Christmas for-ev-er to get here, and
technology for granted. In fact, they have
had respected for their wisdom and years
time absolutely stands still on Christmas
moved far beyond anything so archaic
Eve. Forget the winter solstice; any kid can
as a website. LOL, Granma; that’s like an
of experience – they’re all a bunch of kids
tell you Dec. 24 is the longest night of the
encyclopedia, for goodness sake.
year.
don’t know what an encyclopedia is.
So how can I make these little ones
Never mind the fact that you still think
Actually, they wouldn’t say that; they
of high school and into college, well, that Gosh, I still remember how stunned I
too. So
how could
I,
or any other
grandparent, possibly make little children understand what we are still struggling to
understand how precious each day, each
Maybe it’s not so surprising that I
moment really is, when they are still in the
can’t figure out a way to communicate
springtime of their lives, with what feels
the passage of time to my grandchildren,
like an infinite future ahead of them?
because I have never really come to terms
from the forest and focus on one little tree.
They cannot know how it feels when
with the realization that my own children –
One little sapling; one little child. The child
you go to a website that asks for the year of
born in the 1980s, which was just yesterday
we love.
your birth and you find yourself spinning
– somehow now have their own homes and
the years back and back and back in that
jobs and a spouse and kids of their own.
more time goes by, the more I love you.”
drop-down menu that whirls dates past
That’s a timeless message even the
like a gauge in a time machine.
birth years start with “20” are already out
And when I realize that kids whose
comprehend ourselves?
Well, maybe we just need to back away
“Happy New Year,” we will say. “The
youngest child will understand.
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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MOM MOMENTS WITH JACY ENGLISH
Oh. My. Lawd. Fix. It. Jesus. Hot Mess Express Episode 4,375 My daughters, Harper, 7, and Hayden, 6, were fighting about who packed Hayden's lunch. I'm thinking they're playing because these kids haven't taken their lunch to school in MONTHS. The fight gets real scrappy and I'm thinking I better step in. So I start trying to piece all of this information together. Y'all. Apparently Hayden Blake, sweet angel baby, unbeknownst to me, packed her own lunch today, AND hid her lunch box in her backpack. I didn't know about this until this evening. She claims Bo, her 3-year-old little brother, packed her lunch and put it in her backpack for her. So sweet. I asked her what was packed in her lunch box...... Y'all. (I know that's 'y'all' #2, but it's for emphasis) She tells me.... "Some crackers and some croutons."
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I start spiraling. Like, no home girl did not eat some Club crackers and croutons for lunch at school, so I go check out their MySchoolBucks app. SURE ENOUGH. NO TRANSACTION FOR TODAY! That means she didn't even go through the lunch line... which had plenty of money in it!!! I'm mortified! Hayden is still adamant that Bo is the one who packed the lunch. My child packed herself crackers... a whole sleeve of crackers , and a bag of croutons and ate that for lunch... in front of everyone...
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Are her teachers going to think we don't have food?! There was money in her lunch account! Why would she not go through the line?!?! Is CPS going to come do a home visit?!?! Pray for me. Pray for these kids. Pray for Hayden's teachers.
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KEEPING IT REAL
Make Room for the New
(and old)
2019
By Scott Kenworthy
2009
A
s this past year drew to a close,
for the return of 90s culture). While there
Maybe, you miss receiving hand-written
several people on social media
is nothing wrong with the new, as we
notes and want to start sending letters
took part in what was called the “10-year
enter another decade, I encourage you
of encouragement to the people in your
challenge.” Basically, you posted a picture
to remember and celebrate the old. The
life. When it gets warmer, you might
of yourself from 2009 next to a picture of
great C.S. Lewis used to tell people that
start taking slow walks through your
yourself from 2019 and shared it for the
for every new book they read they should
neighborhood so you can grow to know
world to see. The point was to illustrate
reread an old one. This is not intended to
your neighbors. Is there an annual camping
how much can change in a decade.
suggest modern books lack value—at the
trip, sister’s weekend or friend gathering
It’s true that a lot happens in ten years.
time, Lewis was a modern author! —but
you used to participate in—could it be time
We’re about to enter a new decade. New
rather that old books provide wisdom and
to bring the gang back together? Perhaps
decades, perhaps even more than new
perspective we still need. As much as each
it’s as simple as deciding now’s the time to
years, afford new opportunities and pose
generation likes to think they are the first
once again give back to your community
new challenges. In the next ten years, you
to identify and wrestle with particular
as a volunteer. Maybe it’s time to return to
will likely welcome new members to your
problems, those preceding us have dealt
church, get a better night’s sleep or start
family and say goodbye to friends and
with many similar issues and can thus help
picking up books again. These are only a
family you love. You will watch children or
us think about our challenges in fresh ways.
few ideas. I’m certain you can think of more
grandchildren graduate. Technology will
What if we applied Lewis’ advice to other
and better possibilities.
continue to push new bounds, causing
areas of our life? As we enter a new decade,
I’m excited for what the 2020s will
us to adapt methods of communication,
are there any old habits, disciplines or
bring. To make the most of the years to
travel and entertainment. As a nation, we
traditions you should consider bringing
come, I believe we’ll need to bring with
will face new threats, internationally and
back?
us the best of the years that have passed.
domestically. And old fashions will cycle
Blessings on you and yours as you make
back as new fads (personally, I’m waiting
family dinners around the kitchen table.
Perhaps, you want to return to eating
room both for the new and the old.
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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Making it
CRAFTS, RECIPES, AND ACTIVITIES FAMILIES CAN ENJOY TOGETHER
DIY Snow Globe My kids are all about the crafts. We have an entire cabinet in our house dedicated to supplies. This is a fun, easy, mess-free idea for a cold winter day. And who doesn't love a snow globe?
WHAT YOU NEED: ›› Small figure — let your kids pick something from around the house or the dollar store has lots of inexpensive options. ›› Glitter (2 tablespoons per globe) ›› Water ›› Glycerin — I found this for under $3 at Walmart in the pharmacy area ›› Mason jar — or any jar will do! We used an old salsa jar for our second snow globe. ›› Spoon ›› Glue gun
By Ashley Sorce-Wedding // Photo by Jamie Alexander
DIRECTIONS: ›› Secure the figure to the lid. Using a glue gun, carefully glue the bottom of the figure to the jar lid. Make sure to use enough glue to secure the ornament. Set aside to dry. ›› Add glycerin and water to the jar Add enough water to fill the jar. The amount of glycerin will depend on the size of the jar. I used about a tablespoon for this jar. ›› Add glitter and stir Pour in 2 tablespoons of glitter then stir thoroughly with a spoon. ›› Seal the lid Give it an extra twist to ensure the jar is tightly sealed. Add glue to the lid to prevent any leaking if needed. ›› Shake and enjoy! Make sure your snow globe is completely sealed by shaking it carefully at first. OP
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MAKING IT
PRETEND. PLAY.
PIZZA. By Ashley Sorce-Wedding • Photos by Jamie Alexander
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Owensboro Parent first met the Elder family when their creative outdoor kids' space was nominated to be featured in an issue earlier this year. When we heard this family redesigned the space, we had to catch up with them and check out their latest project.
B
"One of our favorite places to eat
Tenny "cooks" his pizzas in a
repurposed a dilapidated shed
in Hancock County is Galaxy Pizza
brick oven with a chimney. Brent
in their back yard into a playhouse
in Vastwood," Jamie said. "He won't
has been known to put a smoke
for their son, Tennyson -- or Tenny
actually eat the pizza, but he will eat
bomb in the oven to make it look
as they call him. But Brent went
every pepperoni off of the pizza. So
like the oven is really working. The
above
typical
Brent got the bright idea to change
Elders even have real pizza boxes
playhouse standards and converted
the Starbucks into Elder's Pizzeria."
the shed into a diner and he did it in
a matter of days with less than $200.
pizzeria, especially when his parents
About a year after the diner,
let him play with real ingredients.
came a Starbucks. Brent used an
And Tenny loves to share his latest
old swing set for the frame of the
space with friends and neighbors.
coffee shop structure. And the rest
came from scraps of other projects.
station with four different soda
the garage and shed," Jamie said.
Since
options. From a distance it almost
What's in the future for the
with Starbucks ran it's course, his
looks real!
Elders? According to Jamie, Brent
parents said, so Brent went back
"The cups remind me of the red
has been thinking about creating a
to the drawing board for his next
cups from an old school pizza joint,"
gas station. Whatever it is, we know
creative build.
Jamie said.
it will be amazing!
rent
and
and
Jamie
beyond
then,
Tenny's
any
Elder
fascination
Jamie said Tenny loves his new
Elder's Pizzeria includes a drink
that they ordered online, which they use to "deliver" their culinary masterpieces. "Brent is the creative mind behind it and did all the construction himself using odds and ends from
OP
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MAKING IT
Rainbow
FORTUNE COOKIES Photo and Recipe by Jamie Alexander
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The best thing about these fun and colorful fortune cookies is that you're the one writing the fortunes! You can make them say anything you'd like (so a lot of mine mysteriously had fortunes about great health and finances). These are great for the month of January so that you can fill them with great fortunes for the whole year. Kids will love them, especially if you can think of some unique personalized notes!
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
on making. I used six different
or they will harden and crack. This
›› 5 large egg whites
colors so I equally separated my
will be too hot for little hands, and
›› 1 cup sugar
batter into six small bowls. Once
if you worry they'll still be too hot
›› 1 tsp vanilla extract
you have the batter separated, add
›› 1/2 tsp almond extract
for an adult to fold, try wearing a
a couple of drops of food coloring
›› 4 tbsp water
(in the color of your choice) to
›› 1 cup all-purpose flour
each. Stir until incorporated.
›› Food coloring of your choice
›› To make sure the cookies
›› Optional - pinch of cinnamon
don't stick, I recommend using
thin cotton glove when folding to ensure it gets done as quickly as possible!) ›› Take the cookies out of the
a silicone mat on a flat baking
oven and immediately loosen
INSTRUCTIONS:
sheet (my baking sheet had tall
them from the pan using a flat
›› Write out fortunes and cut them
sides so I actually flipped it upside
metal spatula. Flip the cookie over
into strips (approximately 2.5" by
down and used the mat on the
and place a fortune in the middle,
1/4")
bottom). You'll need to fold them
before folding the cookie in half
›› Preheat oven to 375. In a
fast so I recommend only baking
over the fortune (like a taco).
medium bowl, whisk together all
2-4 cookies at a time (start out
Pick up the folded cookie and
the dry ingredients. In a separate
small until you get the hang of it).
bowl, whisk together the egg
Pour about a tablespoon of batter
bend it over the rim of a cup or
whites, water, and extracts until
on the mat and use the bottom
the mixture turns fluffy (small
of a spoon to spread the batter
peaks form). Then mix all of the
out into 3-inch circles. Once you
dry and wet ingredients together.
have a few poured out, place in
›› Separate your batter into equal
the oven for around 8 minutes —
›› Repeat with each cookie, baking
individual bowls. The number of
watch for golden edges.
them in batches of no more than
bowls is determined by how many
(IMPORTANT NOTE: Folding the
five so you can get them folded
colors of cookies you're planning
cookies must be done very quickly
before they harden!
coffee mug, with the seam facing upwards, then place it in a muffin tin cavity to hold it's shape while it cools.
OP
JAMIE ALEXANDER is a nationally-published portrait and commercial photographer, Tanner Publishing Co. staff photographer, and owner of JAA Studios.
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
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22 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
PAID ADVERTORIAL • OWENSBORO HEALTH
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital celebrates
10 years of Neonatal Intensive Care
Entering parenthood is a life-changing experience. For
many parents, that experience can begin with feelings of worry, as many newborns face some form of early health concern or complication.
Luckily, medical advances and technology have minimized
those risks to rates lower than ever before. However, just 10 years ago, new parents in Owensboro facing such fears were often forced to drive hundreds of miles, pay for weeks of lodging and even go nights without seeing their older children.
That was until January of 2010, when Owensboro Health
opened its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital.
Ten years later, the NICU has cared for thousands of
newborns, and parents can rest assured knowing the region’s largest provider of Level III neonatal care is right in their backyard.
the mother’s room,” Denton said.
The convenience of Owensboro Health’s NICU also allows
parents to be closer to their baby, take care of older children at home and still maintain their work responsibilities. In the past, those parents were forced to travel to NICUs in Evansville, Louisville or Lexington.
Owensboro Health partners with neighboring Level IV
NICUs in cases where patients need specialized treatment like surgery. “Because of our partnership with Norton Children’s Hospital, we’re able to bring a lot of babies home,” Denton said. “If they need a higher level of care, they’re able to go there and get the special treatment they need and, when possible, we can bring them back here to the NICU.”
On the fourth Sunday of each September, the NICU hosts
a reunion for graduates and their families. This event draws
Ashley Denton, manager of nursery & NICU, who has
nearly 1,000 people to reunite with their NICU doctors
been with the department since its opening, said it’s uniquely
and care team. This is the best day of the year for the NICU
equipped to serve families.
team because they get to see their tiny patients growing and
thriving.
“The whole design of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is
family-focused,” Denton said.
The NICU features 20 beds, private family rooms and other
years of serving the community on January 8. A collaborative
specialized amenities. Drs. Bridget Burshears and Heather
painting created by NICU graduates at the last reunion will
Brown provide specialized neonatal care alongside 55 nurses
be revealed. It was painted in partnership with Owensboro
that serve the nursery and the NICU.
Museum of Fine Arts.
“Our nursery and NICU nurses attend deliveries, take care
The NICU is hosting a birthday party to celebrate 10
After 10 years of serving babies and families in Owensboro,
of the baby in the delivery room, and if there are any issue, the
the NICU team looks forward to providing excellent care to
baby can be transferred to the NICU just down the hall from
many more in the years to come.
OP
For more information on the Level III NICU at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, visit OwensboroHealth.org/NICU. January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
23
LIVING forROXIE By Melody Ann Wallace
24 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
T
he average person strives in small ways
throughout their lifetime to be kind, to
overlooked,” Roxie’s father Jason said. “Early on,
do good unto others and to leave the
we knew that she was different in a way — but
world a better place. For 13-year-old Roxie Pickrell
“She was drawn to people who were often
she was the exception to the rule.”
that was how she lived her life every day and, her family will assure you, she was far from average.
“We have three very good kids,” said Roxie’s
mother Cathy, “but Roxie was the most flexible and easy-going. She was very kind and nurturing toward other people.”
An Awful October
In late September 2019, Jason’s father and
the owner of Gary’s Drive-In, Gary Pickrell, had surgery performed as a result of complications from diabetes. The surgery was considered a
A Kind Heart
success and Gary was sent home to recover.
and Cathy made the decision to purchase the
Roxanne “Roxie” Lorraine Pickrell was born 20
However, his mobility was limited, so Jason
minutes ahead of her twin brother Jude on July
restaurant from Gary to ease his burden.
12, 2006. Growing up, Roxie loved art in any form,
Meanwhile, Roxie, who wore prescription
from singing music and playing percussion to
eyeglasses, had been complaining of difficulty
repurposing items in order to create something
with her vision and asking to have her eyes
beautiful. But of all the gifts Roxie possessed,
checked. The couple said she rarely complained,
her parents say it was her kind heart and keen
so they made an appointment with her routine
intuition that amazed them most.
eye doctor, which was rescheduled on several
occasions.
“She was one of those people who would just
look for those people who were hurting,” Cathy
said.
football game with her dad, she began asking
The couple said that grown-ups and children
questions that caused great concern. Jason said
alike continue to share stories of times Roxie
Roxie began asking the score of the game that
came alongside them and encouraged them on
was posted boldly on the scoreboard and then
a bad day or helped with a negative situation at
asked if Jude was on the field. Before long, Jason
school.
realized that Roxie could not see the large yard
Then, while Roxie was attending her brother’s
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
25
line numbers on the field or the players’ numbers on the bench in front of them. After speaking to Cathy, the two agreed Roxie would need to see an eye doctor at a walk-in clinic immediately. “She failed the exam miserably,” Cathy said, adding that they were referred to an eye specialist who scheduled Roxie for an MRI of her brain on Oct. 10.
On Oct. 11, as Jason and Cathy sat in the
specialist’s office awaiting the MRI results, Jason, a firefighter with the Owensboro Fire Department (OFD), received an alert on his phone. The fire department had been dispatched to a call of a reported stroke — at his parent’s address. Jason stepped out to call his mother while Cathy awaited the test results.
Within a matter of minutes, Jason and Cathy
would be facing the news that his father Gary had gone into cardiac arrest and died and that Roxie had a 4 centimeter mass on her brain (which would later be diagnosed as malignant). The couple was encouraged to take Roxie to Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville right away. As other local families were packing up and returning home on the last day of fall break vacation, Jason was on his way to the hospital to be with his mother, while Cathy headed to Louisville with all three children.
Surgery, Survival and Support
News of Gary’s death and Roxie’s diagnosis
quickly spread across social media, words and prayers were shared and fundraisers of support began in order to rally around a family that had given so much to the Owensboro community.
“We were bombarded with people calling and
texting,” Cathy said, adding that at one point she and Jason had as many as 10 missed calls and 30 text messages on their cell phones. It was then that she decided that the best way to keep everyone updated on Roxie’s condition was to make a daily post on Facebook.
Using a nickname from Roxie’s early childhood,
Cathy created a Facebook page entitled, “Foxy Roxie’s Army of Angels.” Along with daily updates, 26 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
she encouraged others to wear red for
“cautiously optimistic.”
squeeze your eyes tight,’” Jason said.
Roxie. While red was not Roxie’s favorite
“We were expecting her to wake up
“She couldn’t open her eyes, but she
color, it was the color that best described
in a couple of days,” Jason said. “Instead,
would flicker them. And then I saw a
her beautiful hair, her middle school, her
she had two strokes the next day.”
tear.”
Poppy’s drive-in and her family’s favorite
team, Kansas City Chiefs.
about a roller coaster of emotions for
“We had no idea the Facebook
Jason and Cathy.
support we would receive,” Cathy said.
“I just thought it would be something
result — you want to hear something
small.”
good,” Jason said. “You would have that
4. But, on Nov. 5, her breathing became
moment — then days or hours of nothing
increasingly shallow and she was placed
surgery to remove the baseball-sized
— just her lying there intubated.”
on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane
mass on her brain, fundraiser after
The two strokes Roxie suffered
oxygenation) life support.
fundraiser began to emerge including
following surgery affected her left side,
everything from bracelets to T-shirt
as well as her body’s ability to regulate
said. “Not one time did I not think she
sales, and a “Pickrell Jar” account set up
temperature and blood pressure. She
in the family’s name.
was also unable to see, speak, drink or
Funeral arrangements for Gary were
eat and had lost her motor skills. While
temporarily delayed until the family
Roxie could not open her eyes, it was still
knew more about Roxie’s condition.
quite apparent to Cathy and Jason that
Roxie underwent brain surgery and
their daughter was still very much there
went to heaven where her brother Jude
had the mass removed successfully
in that hospital bed.
knew she belonged all along because, he
on Oct. 14, leaving the doctor’s feeling
says, “she was an angel.”
After learning that Roxie would need
The days following surgery brought
“You are waiting on the next test
“I would say, ‘If you love your daddy,
Then, the Pickrells said, it appeared
as if Roxie had turned a corner. She was extubated and prepared to be transferred to another hospital on Nov.
“I had hope the whole time,” Cathy
would make it. I prayed we’d take her off of life support and she’d show signs.”
On Nov. 6, with her parents and
siblings surrounding her, Roxie Pickrell
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
27
A Bittersweet Homecoming
The community that supported the
Pickrells through the loss of two of its most beloved family members showed up once again to say their final goodbyes to Roxie on Nov. 11. Firefighters in full Class A uniform served as pallbearers and stood watch by her casket, as the notes to her favorite song, “Drops of Jupiter,” flowed from the piano. The song a forever reminder that Roxie was still there, just in a different form.
“She was beautiful. She was perfect.
She was awesome,” Jason said.
“We’ve had so much support from
Cathy and Jason will both return to
this,” Cathy said. “I think eventually
work on Jan. 2 and life will assume a
there will be an opportunity for us to
new normal.
feed that positivity back — when we’re
ready. I know we’ll do something — we
said. “I know I’m not the only person
just have to get through our grief.”
Finding a New Normal
As the Thanksgiving and Christmas
“It’s not going to be the same,” Jason
that feels this way — everybody’s story is different.”
In the meantime, the couple said
they have donated Roxie’s bedroom furniture to families in need and
holidays came and went, the Pickrells
created gift bags for her friends to
said they were doing their best to live
have small tokens of remembrance.
life and grieve appropriately.
“Every day we get up and we do
said. “But I think I made 17 Roxie bags
something productive with our life,”
with things that weren’t meaningful
“I kept a lot of her things,” Cathy
Cathy said. “What would Roxie want
Students at Owensboro Middle
to us. I have an overwhelming urge to
me to do? Roxie would want me to live.”
School lined the streets with red
make people remember her.”
The couple said that their son
and yellow balloons as the funeral
With Roxie’s incredible desire to
Jude and daughter Rhianna have been
procession
the
come alongside those that often went
staying busy with swimming and
school, the hallway windows were
cheerleading and are doing better than
covered with hand-colored paper foxes
they anticipated.
in memory of their fellow student.
Even after Roxie’s passing, the
do every day, we are setting an example
fundraisers and displays of community
for our kids that there is strength in
support continued. From a blood drive
vulnerability,” Cathy said, adding that
There
and Zumbathon in her honor, to local
when it comes to Roxie, they focus
scheduled in the coming months in
runner Dylan Hammons committing
on the positive. “We talk about her —
honor of Roxie Pickrell. For more
to run 100 miles for a young girl he’d
we just don’t talk about October and
information, please visit the Foxy Roxie's
never met.
November.”
Army of Angels Facebook page.
passed
by.
Inside
“By doing what we’re supposed to
unnoticed, there is little doubt that she will ever be forgotten.
“We spend our whole life trying to
do what she did in 13 years,” Jason said. “She’s the best role model I ever had.” are
multiple
fundraisers
OP
MELODY WALLACE is a former middle school language arts teacher and now works with Owensboro Times, sharing stories about the community she has come to call home. She has been writing since she was old enough to hold a crayon.
28 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
kids dining guide
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
29
DINING GUIDE
Owensboro is home to some amazing food. With so many choices, choosing a place for dining out can be tough — especially with kids. We asked our readers for Owensboro's most kidfriendly restaurants and we got so many great responses. Here is our list of restaurants for the Owensboro Parent Kids Dining Guide — with all of our reader suggestions and some of our own. And you will find that we included all of the must-know information for parents. Don't feel like cooking dinner tonight? Why not dine out instead!
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
3189 FAIRVIEW DR. SUITE E | (270) 685-4969
A family-friendly restaurant, Beef’s is a neighborhood pub where friends and families could gather to enjoy good food and sports in a fun, comfortable atmosphere. Kids can choose from a grilled cheese, cheese or chicken quesadilla, mac and cheese, chicken nuggets or tenders, traditional wings or a cheeseburger. Each meal includes a special treat. Kids 12 and under eat free with each adult meal
KIDS MENU COLORING SHEETS GAME OR PLAY AREA
purchase on Sunday from 4-8 p.m. and for $1.99 all day every Tuesday.
Buffalo Wild Wings 4736 FREDERICA ST. | (270) 686-7800
CHANGING STATION BIRTHDAY DESSERT RESERVABLE SPACE
At Buffalo Wild Wings, or B-Dubs, as they are commonly referred to, you can always feel comfortable pulling some tables together with your friends and family and staying as long as you want. They are a fun, edgy, high-energy and easygoing restaurant - much like the personalities of our guests. Their kids’ menu features
HIGHCHAIRS/BOOSTERS
traditional and boneless wings, chicken tenders, mac and cheese, hamburger and mini corn dogs. B-Dubs says raise 'em right with sports and food they actually eat.
30 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
Chick-Fil-A
4601 FREDERICA ST. | (270) 683-0907
Chick-fil-A was the landslide winner for favorite nuggets when we polled parents on Facebook. Arguably the busiest restaurant in Owensboro, Chick-fil-A is a parent and kid favorite. The kids menu has chicken nuggets or strips and even grilled chicken options with fries or fruit as a side. A toy accompanies every kids meal, which can be traded in for ice cream! The Owensboro location offers a number of family night options with superhero or princess appearances and more. Birthday parties are available on Monday or Tuesday evenings.
Drake's
3050 HIGHLAND POINTE DR. | (270) 240-5533
One of the newest restaurants to Owensboro, Drake’s is quickly making a name for itself. Your go-to for lunch, dinner and latenight, Drake’s is a free-wheeling, fun-loving kind of joint. A place to hang out and let your hair down. A place to let yourself go a little. The kids’ menu includes friend or grilled chicken tenders, mini burgers, grilled cheese or a cheese quesadilla.
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
31
DINING GUIDE
Great Harvest
3211 FREDERICA ST. | (270) 691-0093 4431 SPRINGHILL DR. | (270) 240-5554
Known for their scratch-made breads, cookies, brownies and goodies, Great Harvest has two popular location in Owensboro. Families have come to love their made to order sandwiches, paninis, soups and salads. Kid-friendly and a family favorite, Great Harvest offers a menu the whole family loves.
Legends
4431 SPRINGHILL DR SUITE E | (270) 240-5360
Firehouse Subs 5220 FREDERICA ST | (270) 683-9019
At Legends Sports Bar & Grill, they are ready for every kind of game day. It doesn't matter if it's football, hockey or basketball, they have some of the clearest and largest widescreen TVs in
Known for their hot subs, Firehouse serves submarine
town to watch your favorite team. Or, if you've just finished
sandwiches made with premium meats and cheeses, steamed
playing in a game yourself, come in to celebrate your success.
to perfection, then piled high on a toasted private recipe sub
Their American restaurant is perfect for the whole family after
roll. Kids can select turkey, ham, roast beef, meatball or grilled
a soccer game or swim meet. The kids’ menu offers mac and
cheese and all kids meals come with a Rice Krispie Treat — or
cheese, mini corn dogs, hamburger, hot dog or chicken tenders
a cookie or brownie for an additional charge. Kids eat free on
grilled or fried.
Wednesdays and Sundays and can get a free fire hat any day!
32 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
Moe's
2065 E PARRISH AVE. | (270) 821-6637
Welcome
to
Moe's!
Enjoy
burritos,
kids choice We asked our facebook followers to poll their children on their favorite foods. Here's how they voted!
quesadillas, tacos and more made from 20+ fresh ingredients. Kid's, vegetarian, low-cal & catering options are available. And chips & salsa are free with every meal! Kids will
Best Chicken Nuggets
love the freshly made Southwestern fare, aptly named after your favorite pop culture
1st
icons.
MOD Pizza
CHICK-FIL-A
2710 HEARTLAND CROSSING BLVD, SUITE C | (270) 240-2646
MOD
is
the
original
superfast
WENDY'S
3rd
pizza
experience. Artisan-style pizzas and salads
2nd
MCDONALD'S
are individually sized, made on demand and ready in just minutes. Choose from over 30 toppings – the price stays the same no matter what you pick.
1st
Best Pizza
2nd
FETTA
3rd
AZZIP
MOD PIZZA
Best Ice Cream
1st 2nd 3rd
RITZY'S
COLD STONE
ORANGE LEAF January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
33
DINING GUIDE
Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn 2840 W PARRISH AVE | (270) 684-8143
Real Hacienda
4820 FREDERICA ST. | (270) 685-5950 3023 HIGHLAND POINT DR. | (270) 684-5595
A Kentucky tradition since 1963, Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn cooks in the old fashioned Kentucky tradition. They place meats personally
Real Hacienda Mexican Restaurant offers a warm
selected for quality in their custom built hickory fired pits and cook
place where friends and families can experience the
them slow and long, giving them that distinctive hickory flavor. When
taste and feel of Mexico’s culinary culture. The little
you visit Moonlite, you can smell the difference even before you taste
amigos menu includes a taco, burrito, quesadilla,
the southern style food that has made us legendary. Moonlite offers
enchilada, nachos, taco salad and chicken tenders.
a lunch and dinner buffet, as well as menu service and kids eat free on Mondays.
Ritzy’s 4925 FREDERICA ST | (270) 691-9195 4527 HIGHWAY 54 | (270) 852-8887
Ritzy’s offers customers a nostalgic, diner-inspired meal and for kids, nothing beats an Itzy Ritzy meal, complete with a coupon for a junior scoop of homemade ice cream. Kids menu items include hamburger or cheeseburger, hot dog, grilled cheese or chicken tenders.
Papa Grande
Texas Roadhouse 943 MOSELY RD. | (270) 689-0086
544 SOUTHTOWN BLVD. | (270) 683-1615 3830 HIGHWAY 54, SUITE 203 | (270) 240-4430
The food is not the only thing that’s legendary at Roadhouse — their fun is too! From their line dancers
When families are looking for savory Mexican food and a relaxing
to their jukebox, customers are sure to enjoy every
atmosphere, Papa Grande is a great choice. Serving Owensboro for
second they spend at Texas Roadhouse. Their kids’
14 years, Papa Grande serves up bona fide Mexican cuisine, made
menu includes mini cheeseburgers, steak and steak
with fresh ingredients and prepared by professional chefs. With long
bites, mac and cheese, hot dog, grilled chicken and
tables and ample space, Papa Grande is great for family celebrations.
chicken tenders and ribs.
34 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
OP
DINING GUIDE • HASHTAG MOMFAIL
I Let My Kids Watch My Phone at Dinner and I’m Not Sorry By Jamie Johnson
O
nce upon a time, I didn’t
where to the bathroom with my
offspring. I was one of those parents
have children. I would go
poop-covered baby and changed
I always said I would never be.
out and eat dinner with
his diaper and clothes. That took
I bet I waited at least another
my husband or friends and judge
at least 15 minutes, so I missed
year before I took that kid to a
parents that either let their kids be
ordering my dinner.
restaurant without a play place.
too loud at a restaurant or let them
I sat back down with the baby,
Now, I know that if I want to
watch a phone or iPad at the dinner
ordered dinner and held him in my
have a nice family dinner — AKA
table.
lap. He grabbed the tablecloth and
eat a nice meal with my husband
Did they not know how to
yanked on it, spilling all the drinks
without having to pay a babysitter
discipline their children? I would
on the table.
— I need a phone with full charge
never do either of those things.
I
and a restaurant with a Wi-Fi
Now that I have a 2 old little boy
the baby to cry again. OK, he
password posted at the entrance.
and a 5-year old little boy, I have
was screaming at an octave only
So the next time you see two
realized that karma is real.
Christina Aguilera can hit.
parents eating in a restaurant in
I remember the first time a
I was so upset, stressed and
peace with a child that has a phone
group of friends told me to just
overwhelmed that I just walked
or an iPad, don’t judge them. You
bring the baby with us to dinner at
out of the restaurant with the baby
should probably thank them for
a nice restaurant.
under one arm, his diaper bag and
keeping their child occupied.
The baby, who is now 5, was
my purse draped across my body
If they didn’t, their kid might
about 9 months old. I had avoided
and tears in my eyes. I didn’t even
throw a chicken finger, fork or
restaurants like the plague before
say bye to my friends. I just straight
even a stuffed animal that looks
because I never knew what kind of
up walked out.
like it has been living in a garbage
emotions my child would display.
can at your head from across the
Children are so unpredictable.
some of the other diners. There
restaurant.
I wearily said sure and carried
were a couple sympathetic, “I feel
So thank you Steve Jobs, for
my kiddo in the restaurant with me
you girl” looks. The rest looked like
providing me the technology to
on a Saturday night.
I ruined their entire night and that
enjoy a nice meal every once in a
my baby was the spawn of Satan.
while. I might get judged, but I
My little ticking time bomb
don’t care because I’m worrying
decided to have a blowout and then
baby in and cried.
too much about shoveling my food
scream bloody murder.
I felt like a failure as a parent
down my throat before that episode
that could not discipline my own
of Paw Patrol ends.
Biggest. Mistake. Ever.
I ran like a bat out of you know
got
upset, which caused
I remember the looks I got from
I went to the car, strapped the
OP
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!
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
35
DINING GUIDE
kids
meal deals
EVERY DAY
O’Charley’s – Free kids meal (ages 10 & under) with the purchase of adult entrée
SNOW DAYS
Drake's – On Daviess County Snow days, free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with the purchase of an adult entrée; dine-in only from 10:30am-4pm, up to 2 kids per adult.
MONDAY
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
Donatos – Up to 2 free individual 1-topping pizza/per child (12 and under) with the purchase of a large pizza; dine-in only from 5-8pm Burger Theory (located in the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront) – Free kids meal (ages 12 & under) with purchase of an adult meal; breakfast, lunch & dinner
THURSDAY
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
Fazoli’s – Up to 3 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of an adult entrée Pizza By the Guy – 1 free kids buffet for (ages 10 & under) with an adult purchase with a drink on Tuesdays from 5-8pm
Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal (10 & under) per adult entrée
Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Trunnell’s 54 Deli – 1 free kids meal with the purchase of a signature sandwich Huddle House – 1 free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entrée . January / February 2020
WEDNESDAY
Firehouse Subs – Up to 2 kids eat free (12 & under) all day with purchase of an adult meal
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
36 OWENSBORO PARENT
McDonald’s – $1.99 Happy meals from 4-7pm; dine-in only
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 Moe's – Kids eat free with purchase of 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. Drake's – Free ice cream for students who bring in a report card with an A. Ritzy’s (Both locations) – Scoops for Scholars! 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.
January / February 2020 . OWENSBORO PARENT
37
38 OWENSBORO PARENT
. January / February 2020
Discover
ADVICE AND TIPS ON H OW TO M AKE PARENTING AN D L IFE EASIER
Photo by Jamie Alexander
The Reading Nook
All of these books are available for check out at the Daviess County Public Library.
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DISCOVER • THE READING NOOK
Hoot and Peep: A Song for Snow By: Lita Judge It's Peep's first winter, and it's going to snow very, very soon. Peep has so many questions for her older brother Hoot: Does snow drop, polppety splop, like the rain's song? Does it scrinkle scrattle like falling leaves? But Hoot can't remember snow very well. The one thing he knows for sure is that it is worth waiting for.
happens next is the surprising part, as a mole takes refuge in the lost mitten, then a rabbit, then a hedgehog, an owl, a badger, and a fox.
Outside By Deirdre Gill In this gentle picture book fantasy, a child’s world transforms through his hard work, imagination, and persistence when he opens the door and steps outside, into to the brave new world of his imagination.
The Mitten: A Ukrainian Folktale By Jan Brett
First Snow By Peter McCarty
A Ukrainian boy named Nicki wants his grandmother Baba
It’s a day of firsts for Pedro…. First snowfall. First snow angel.
to knit snow-white mittens for him. She warns her grandson
First taste of a snowflake. First sled run. First snowball fight!
that a white mitten will be hard to find if he loses it in the
All the joy, magic, and wonder of a child’s first experiences
snow, but of course he promptly does just that! What
are captured in this breathtaking picture book.
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OP
parental control { Q&A with Christina Dalton, MSSW, CSW }
am recently divorced and my 8-year-old son “hasI really been having a hard time. Sometimes he does not want to go to his Dad's house because he says that is not his bedroom. He has started to have anxiety and gets mad easily. We are trying to work together, but nothing seems to be working. Do you have any suggestions that we are not thinking about?
”
a:
Change can be difficult no matter what age. Divorce is never easy for anyone involved and the time it can take for children to adjust can vary greatly. It does sound like you and your son’s father are working together to figure out the best plan for your child and that is absolutely the most important piece that you can be doing. I have worked with several different parents and kids going through this situation and cooperation between exes can be hard to achieve, but when you can do this, you are truly putting your child's needs before your own. Routine is helpful in these situations and knowing what to expect. Divorce can be traumatic for kids and we want to keep things as routine as possible. One way to do that is by your child knowing what is happening that day and night. As a divorced parent myself, there are days when you don't know whose day it is and who is picking up from school and what time are you getting them after school? Lots of questions and concerns in any given day. It can be hard enough as adults to keep up, much less an 8-year-old boy. I think it could be helpful to ask if your child wants to bring any of his things from your house to Dad's house. Try thinking about what can you do to make that bedroom feel more like his? Perhaps he can go pick out some new sheets or something decorative for his room. I am a social worker and I am always going to say that
counseling is a good idea. This could be good idea for your child or you. You talked about how angry he can get and that anxiety is at a high. A good counselor can help your son learn some strategies that can help him control his anger and anxiety. Mindfulness and deep breathing exercises are so helpful in working with both of these issues. When we can teach our kids coping skills for when we feel like something is too much for us to handle, we are preparing them for real life. We are giving them tools that will help them cope the rest of their lives instead of turning to unhealthy coping skills later such as drugs or alcohol. I also do not think it would be a bad idea to talk to the guidance counselor at your child's school because counselors sometimes have groups that are for kids going through something like this. By being with other children going through similar situations, it can normalize what is happening to them a little and make them feel like they are not alone. At the very least, this could be another person checking in on your child too. I think it is important to explore a little more why he does not want to go to Dad's house. See if you can get him to explain that a little more and you never know it could be a very simple fix. I think you are doing great and time along with support with carry you both through this new chapter in your lives. OP
CHRISTINA DALTON, MSSW, CSW is a District Social Worker for Daviess County Public Schools.
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