Henderson residents looking for a personalized caffeine fix or a custom-crafted treat now have a high-energy new destination. 7 Brew, the rapidly growing drive-thru beverage brand, has officially arrived at 2005 U.S. 41, bringing with it an upbeat atmosphere and a staggering menu of over 20,000 unique drink combinations.
The brand is known for more than just its expansive menu of coffees, teas, and energy drinks; it prides itself on a “speedy and superior” drive-thru experience that emphasizes genuine human connection. Whether it’s a morning rush or a late-night craving, the 7 Brew team aims to make every visit feel as personalized as the drinks they serve.
To celebrate the new location, 7 Brew hosted a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 16. As part of their entry into the Henderson community and their core value of “cultivating kindness,” the brand donated to local organization 4 Good Community during the event.
Coffee lovers can visit the new stand during its full operating hours: 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
HENDERSON DISC GOLF CLUB
If you are looking for a weekly escape that combines community, fresh air, and a little friendly competition, look no further than the Henderson Disc Golf Club. Known locally as the Audubon Flyers, this group brings together a diverse mix of neighbors—ranging from their 20s to their 60s—who share a love for a sport that is essentially a “fun walk in the park.”
For Henderson families, disc golf is an ideal hobby. It is lowcost, easy to learn, and provides a low-intensity workout that covers two to three miles in a single round. “You will lose your garage or a room in your house if you get hooked,” the club jokes, but the initial investment is minimal compared to most sports.
Where to Play:
Beginners: Head to Atkinson Park for a friendly introduction to the game.
Advanced: Check out Henderson Hills, the new course located on the old municipal golf course, for a much larger and more technical challenge.
What’s Coming Up:
The club is gearing up for their Handicap League starting in April, which uses adjusted scores to level the playing field for all skill levels. Looking further ahead, mark your calendars for September for the 16th Annual “Flippin’ and Flyin’” tournament. This local tradition is famous for its “Closest to Pin” (CTP) prizes. While most tournaments give away sports gear, the Flyers are known for their quirky prizes—you might walk away with a new disc, or you might win an espresso machine, a silverware set, or even a car!
Get Involved:
While the club doesn’t have formal clinics yet, they are a community of mentors. If you want to learn the ropes, join the Henderson Disc Golf Facebook Group and post a request—a member will be happy to show you the way.
Connect: facebook.com/groups/hendodiscgolf
Photo by Darrin Phegley
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY! WHAT KINDS OF ACTIVITIES HELP YOUR FAMILY UNWIND AND STAY ACTIVE TOGETHER?
Dr. Zack Gregory & Dr. Chelsey Gregory
AUDUBON DENTAL
Hello! We are the Gregorys! Dr. Zack Gregory, Dr. Chelsey Gregory, Sarah Cate (8) and Lucy (6). We always aim to eat dinner together and unwind by watching a movie or playing a game of Uno before bed. At dinner we talk about our “highs” and “lows” from the day. The kids love this and really look forward to this time.
AS DENTISTS AND PARENTS, HOW DO YOU APPROACH HEALTH AND WELLNESS AT HOME — FROM DAILY ROUTINES TO HEALTHY HABITS YOU TRY TO MODEL FOR YOUR KIDS?
Health is very important and we start by trying to make nutritious snack choices. Like any family with young children, our kids are always asking for snacks. Offering healthy choices such as fruit, yogurt, or veggies is where we like to start. It does not always happen, but we make sure to have those “good choices” available first.
Our jobs as dentists are weirdly physical. So, we have started implementing stretching after a workout—making the stretching part as important as the cardio part. The kids like to get in the floor with us and stretch too!
WITH TWO BUSY CAREERS IN HEALTHCARE, HOW DO YOU PROTECT FAMILY TIME AND PREVENT BURNOUT?
We work very hard when we are at work. But on our days “off,” we are off. We try not to run by the office; we try to be present and in the moment. It’s always a balance, and we are constantly adjusting and readjusting to find that happy balance. Dr. Chelsey enjoys a good book and Dr. Zack is an avid hunter. Having something else other than work that occupies our time and feeds our brain is a must!
WHAT’S ONE SMALL WELLNESS HABIT YOU SWEAR BY AS A FAMILY THAT OTHER PARENTS COULD EASILY TRY?
Most days we pack our lunch. Even if it’s a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. (We will never admit how many of these we eat in a week.) It keeps us from eating something fast and unhealthy at lunch time.
WHEN LIFE GETS BUSY, WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SIMPLE WAY TO RECONNECT AS A FAMILY AND RESET?
We love to travel. The kids have a passport and travel very well. Getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and trying new things is our favorite way to be together. HF
by
Making it
Photo
Jamie Plain
Double Chocolate Hidden Veggie Muffins
If your kids love chocolate muffins but side-eye anything green, these are for you. They’re rich, soft, and packed with chocolate. They also happen to include spinach, carrot, and banana blended right into the batter. No flecks, no funny texture, no detectable veggie flavor. Just a really good muffin that quietly does a little more.
INGREDIENTS
Makes 12 muffins
›› 1 cup fresh spinach (loosely packed)
›› ½ cup milk
›› 1 ripe banana, mashed
›› ½ cup finely shredded carrot (packed)
›› ⅓ cup neutral oil (or melted coconut oil)
›› 2 large eggs
›› ½ cup granulated sugar
›› ¼ cup brown sugar
›› 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
›› ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
›› 1 cup all-purpose flour
›› ½ cup white whole wheat flour (or additional all-purpose flour)
›› ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
›› 1 teaspoon baking soda
›› ½ teaspoon baking powder
›› ½ teaspoon salt
›› ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Line or lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
Blend the vegetables.
In a blender, combine spinach, chopped or shredded carrot, and milk. Blend until completely smooth and uniform in color, with no visible pieces remaining.
Mix wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, whisk together
oil, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Stir in the mashed banana and Greek yogurt. Add the blended vegetable mixture and mix until smooth.
Combine dry ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flours, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Make the batter.
Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
Bake.
Fill muffin cups ¾ full and bake 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. HF
ARTICLE AND PHOTO BY JAMIE PLAIN Jamie Plain is a nationally published culinary and commercial photographer working as a full-time staff photographer for Black Box Media. She has a knack for making tasty food and pretty art. See more of her portfolio at jaastudios.com.
MRS. BOBBI’S ART CLASS SERIES
Paper Flower Bouquet
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Background:
›› white 12 x 18 construction paper
Hand:
›› Flesh-colored construction paper
›› White crayon or paint marker for fingernails.
Flowers:
›› Assorted bright colored paper, including greens for stems
›› Pencil
›› Glue stick
›› Scissors
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Trace around your hand and wrist onto flesh-colored construction paper. Cut out with scissors.
2. Bend the fingers of the cut out hand as if they were grasping something.
3. Glue the paper hand and wrist 2/3 down the white background paper so that the wrist lays on the edge. Trim if necessary.
4. Cut four or more long, thin strips from green scrap paper for flower stems.
5. Cut four flowers from colorful paper and glue to stems.
6 . Arrange and glue stems in the palm and bent back fingers of the hand so that they hold the flowers.
7. Draw fingernails on the fingertips with a white crayon or white oil based paint marker.
HERE’S SOME EXTRA IDEAS!
›› Use large pom-poms for the flower centers.
›› Add leaf shapes to fill in the empty places.
›› Accent with a ribbon or bow.
›› Make it a Mother’s Day keepsake and be sure to write your age on the back so she can see the size of your hand when you were that age.
›› Write a sweet message to someone you love.
›› Create a bumblebee or butterfly from your scraps to embellish your work.
›› Use pinking shears on the flower centers for added texture. HF
Community
Photo by Darrin Phegley
The Ward Family’s Journey to Henderson
Where Heart Meets Home
When Dylan and Hannah Ward officially moved to Henderson in January 2025, it wasn’t their first chapter with the city. In many ways, it felt like the natural continuation of a story that had been unfolding for more than a decade — one built on public service, perseverance, faith, and a fierce commitment to family.
Today, Dylan, 34, serves as Henderson’s City Manager. Hannah, 33, works part-time as a math interventionist at Henderson County High School while also balancing life at home with their two children: Lindleigh, 7, a second grader, and Caleb, 3, a preschooler, both in Henderson County schools.
From the outside, their life looks full — school events, city projects, soccer games, community festivals. But woven into their story is a journey that has reshaped their understanding of resilience, redefined what “home” means, and deepened their love for the community they now call their own.
A CALLING TO COMMUNITY
Dylan’s connection to Henderson stretches back long before he became City Manager. Growing up in Ohio County, with family ties in Evansville and Daviess County, he spent plenty of time in Henderson. But it was after graduating from Western Kentucky University in 2013 that the city became something more.
He had three job offers. One was with the City of Henderson as an Engineering Assistant.
After interviewing with city leaders, including then-Assistant City Manager Buzzy Newman and City Manager Russell Sights, Dylan felt something click.
“I knew this was the job I wanted and the place I wanted to work,” he says. “I never dreamed what it would later lead to.”
What began as an entry-level position turned into a steady climb through leadership roles — Engineering Assistant, Public Works Engineer, Project Manager, Assistant City Manager, and ultimately, City Manager.
“I had never even heard of a city manager before coming to work for the city,” Dylan admits. “But once I saw the role up close, I realized it was my dream job.”
The position merged his engineering
background with his love for leadership and his desire to serve. Over time, the projects he worked on became personal. There was pride in bringing his family to see a completed park or public improvement — knowing he had played a role in shaping it.
“There’s something special when you live in the same community that you work to help make better each day,” he says.
However, for the first several years, that wasn’t possible. The family lived in Owensboro, balancing proximity to extended family and Hannah’s job while Dylan commuted to Henderson daily. Eventually, after several promotions and much conversation, the Wards decided it was time to fully plant roots.
They weren’t just moving houses. They were aligning their home with Dylan’s calling.
BUILDING MORE THAN A HOUSE
The relocation process was filled with anticipation. The family chose to build their first home in Henderson — an experience Hannah describes as exciting from start to finish.
They even started Lindleigh in school before the home was complete. Each morning, she rode to Henderson with Dylan; each afternoon, Hannah picked her up and brought her back to Owensboro.
“It gave them valuable time together each day,” Hannah says.
When the house was finally finished, the feeling was immediate.
“When we stayed there as a family for the first time,” Dylan says, “that’s when it felt like home.”
They quickly met neighbors, including a family across the street whose daughter became like a big sister to Lindleigh. Their home sits adjacent to The Bridges Golf Course — one of Dylan’s own city projects — adding another layer of connection.
Even as someone who doesn’t golf, he smiles at the symbolism.
“It further cemented that sense of familiarity, pride, and home.”
A CITY THAT EMBRACED THEM
Henderson didn’t just welcome Dylan in his professional role. It embraced the entire Ward family.
Photo by Darrin Phegley
They’ve grown fond of local favorites like Rookie’s, Hometown Roots, Homers, Tacoholics, and Coffee + Cream. The kids love the library and the YMCA. Summer Reading in the Park, downtown festivals, and riverfront fountains have quickly become part of family life.
On Mondays, especially in warmer months, they often head downtown for dinner and ice cream — a tradition they call “Memory Mondays.” Fridays have become “Family Fridays.” Saturday mornings frequently start at the YMCA, followed by pool time together.
Hannah, too, has found her place. Working part-time at Henderson County High School has provided both professional fulfillment and community connection.
“It’s been the best of both worlds,” she says. “It’s made the transition so much easier.”
But by the time the Wards officially moved to Henderson in January 2025, they weren’t just changing addresses — they were stepping into a new season after years that had already reshaped their family.
That turning point began three years earlier, while Hannah was pregnant with Caleb. In January 2022, during a routine anatomy scan, doctors struggled to get a clear view of one side of the baby’s heart. At a follow-up appointment on February 1, 2022 — after a two-hour scan with a maternal-fetal specialist — they received the diagnosis: Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a rare and life-threatening congenital heart defect.
THE DIAGNOSIS THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
HLHS requires a series of three open-heart surgeries — the Norwood, Glenn, and Fontan procedures — performed in stages during early childhood. There is no cure, only management. Even
with successful surgeries, patients face lifelong monitoring and the possibility of future complications.
The timing felt particularly disorienting. Just one day before learning of Caleb’s condition, Dylan and Hannah had been asked to publicly share their plans to become full-time missionaries in El Salvador — a path they had spent two years preparing for.
Overnight, everything changed.
“We felt pretty defeated on multiple fronts,” Hannah says.
And yet, even in that early grief, moments of unexpected hope began to surface. The day after their diagnosis, a coworker approached Hannah and shared that he had dreamed everything would be good with her baby — a detail he couldn’t have known she desperately needed to hear.
Soon after, they were connected to a prayer room in Owensboro where people regularly gathered to pray for their unborn son. During one of those visits, someone mentioned the biblical story of Joshua and Caleb and prayed that their son would carry that same strength and faith. The name Caleb immediately resonated. When they later learned that the name means “whole-hearted,” it felt especially significant — a quiet confirmation in the middle of uncertainty.
In April 2022, the family temporarily relocated to Cincinnati, living at the Ronald McDonald House near Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Caleb would be born there and immediately transferred to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.
The early days were filled with uncertainty. Doctors had warned they might not be able to hold him after birth.
But when Caleb arrived, he didn’t require immediate oxygen support. Dylan and Hannah held him for nearly 30 minutes.
The following day — Mother’s Day — Lindleigh was able to meet
her baby brother, thanks to recently lifted visitor restrictions.
“When Caleb was born, everything was good and everyone was happy,” Hannah says.
It was a moment they still revisit with gratitude – a dream come true.
LIFE IN SURVIVAL MODE
The next six months were spent in Cincinnati. Caleb underwent his first two open-heart surgeries. For 14 months, he relied on a feeding tube. There were blood sugar concerns, therapies, weight struggles.
Hannah describes that season simply: survival mode.
“Parenting a young child while caring for a medically complex baby is not an easy task,” she says. “You do the best you can with what you have in the time that you have it.”
Lindleigh, just 3 years old at the time, showed remarkable resilience — adjusting to life at the Ronald McDonald House, preschool in Cincinnati, and the shifting attention that comes with having a critically ill sibling.
“She continues to show so much understanding and compassion,” Hannah says. “She prays for him every night that his heart would get better.”
The support surrounding them was extraordinary. Their parents rotated weeks in Cincinnati, renting a nearby apartment. Friends organized prayer vigils and visited often. Nurses at Cincinnati Children’s became trusted teammates.
“We fully believe thousands of people have prayed for our son,” Dylan says. “He is the bravest, strongest, most resilient person I’ve ever met. He may be small, but he is mighty.”
COMING HOME — AGAIN
Today, Caleb is awaiting his third surgery — the Fontan procedure — which is scheduled for May 28. His oxygen levels currently hover around 85 percent. He tires easily on stairs.
The upcoming surgery will not cure HLHS, but it is expected to improve his oxygen levels and overall stamina.
The future remains uncertain. The surgical series was only developed in the 1980s, meaning long-term data is limited. Some HLHS patients require heart or liver transplants later in life; others grow up to live full, active lives.
“That’s our hope for Caleb,” Hannah says.
Through it all, Henderson has become more than a professional destination. It’s become a support system.
Caleb’s new teachers and administrators are invested in him. New friendships have formed. Dylan’s colleagues have been understanding and generous.
“Moving to Henderson has only broadened our support system,” Hannah says.
A FAMILY MARKED BY RESILIENCE
Ask them to describe their family in three words, and the answer comes quickly: resilient, faithful, compassionate. They’ve learned to live intentionally. To sing and pray together before bed. To celebrate small joys — ice cream after dinner, open soccer play at The Plex, monthly All Pro Dad meetings at Lindleigh’s school, where Dylan now leads a program that regularly hosts more than 100 fathers and children.
Some people in town recognize him from that role more than his city title.
And that feels right. Because at the center of everything — public leadership, medical advocacy, relocation, community building — is family.
REDEFINING HOME
The Wards have lived in a home in Owensboro, a Cincinnati hospitaladjacent room, and now a newly built home in Henderson. Yet Hannah’s reflection captures what ties it all together.
“Home is wherever I’m with you,” she says.
For six months, home was a Ronald McDonald House room within walking distance of a hospital bed. Now, it’s a house near a golf course in a city they are helping shape.
Henderson is where they work. Where they serve. Where they are building friendships and routines. Where their children are growing.
It is also where their story — shaped by heartache and hope — continues to unfold.
And for the Ward family, that makes it home. HF
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY WEDDING Ashley is the editor of Owensboro Parent Magazine. She enjoys everyday adventures with her husband, Drew, and their three kids, Avery, Reed and Mason.
Photo by Darrin Phegley
Small but Mighty
How 5-year-old Wyatt saved his mother during a triple stroke
Kassie Owens always told her son, Wyatt, that he was a fighter. He had survived a high-risk pregnancy and a bout of COVID-19 before he was even born. But on Dec. 12, 2025, the 5-year-old proved he wasn’t just a survivor, he was a lifesaver.
When a sudden medical emergency left Kassie incapacitated on their bathroom floor, Wyatt, a boy his mother describes as a “wild child” with ADHD, transformed into a “cool, calm, and collected” hero. Using a system of picture-coded contacts his mother had taught him, Wyatt summoned help as Kassie suffered a series of strokes.
For Kassie, Wyatt’s very existence was a miracle. After losing a son to miscarriage in 2011 and a daughter to a stillbirth in 2012, she spent years praying for a child. Wyatt, her “two-time rainbow baby,” arrived in 2020.
His life began with hurdles: he survived
COVID-19 in utero at 12 weeks and was born with multiple physical ties and two front teeth already intact.
“He has been a fighter from the very beginning,” Kassie said.
THE TRAINING
Living “way out in the county,” where an ambulance takes at least 10 minutes to arrive, Kassie knew that time was her greatest enemy. A Type 2 diabetic since 2008, she began training Wyatt early on how to handle a medical crisis.
She taught him to recognize the sounds of her glucose monitor and how to react if she needed sugar. Most importantly, she customized her phone’s contact list with “picture tags,” photos of faces instead of a string of numbers.
She taught him who did what: his Poppie was a nurse, his sister was a medical professional, and his cousin, Brittany, drove an ambulance.
THE EMERGENCY
The morning of Dec. 12 started like any other, but as Kassie went to the garage to get dinner from the freezer, the world shifted. A pounding headache, blurred vision, and intense pressure in her eyes forced her back to the couch.
“This is where it starts to get fuzzy,” Kassie recalled.
According to Wyatt, his mother fell off the couch and began shaking—a terrifying sight he later described as “mommy turning into a zombie.” As she crawled toward the bathroom to get sick, Wyatt didn't panic. He grabbed her phone and looked for a familiar face.
He bypassed his father’s contact and went straight to Brittany. He knew she had the “truck” (the ambulance).
“Brittany, I need help,” the boy said into the phone. “Mom is having a medical emergency.”
THE RESCUE
Under Brittany’s direction over speakerphone, Wyatt remained the anchor. He stayed by his mother’s side, pulled back her hair as she was sick, and brought her a cool rag for her head. When told that help was coming, he navigated the house to unlock the front door to ensure first responders could get inside.
He even managed to grab her medical monitor and describe exactly what it looked like to the person on the other end of the line.
“I remember praying,” Kassie said. “I asked the Lord, 'If you have to take me, please don’t take me in front of my son. Let him get me help so that he may know how truly amazing he is.'”
By the time the fog lifted, Kassie was surrounded by her family. Wyatt, having completed his mission,
quietly retreated to the living room to put on his shoes, his job done.
THE RECOVERY
At the hospital, doctors discovered the severity of the event: Kassie had suffered a stroke in her left frontal lobe and two more in her cerebellum, complicated by Bell’s palsy.
Medical professionals credit the swift actions taken in those first few minutes for her survival and her current ability to walk and talk. Today, she is back to the job she says God blessed her with: being a mom to the boy she calls her “live Spider-Man.”
Kassie now shares her story to urge other parents to empower their children, no matter how small they are.
“We should never doubt what our little pints can do,” she said. “He may have been little, but boy, was he mighty that day.” HF
Kassie Owens demonstrates how she setup her phone to be easy for her son Wyatt to call for help in case of an emergency. She used a picture of her EMT cousin Brittany Langston to make it quick and easy for him to recognize who he could call.
WRITTEN BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON Meghann is Director of Digital Marketing at Dynamic Directions and a journalist for Black Box Media. She enjoys running and spending time with her husband, Ryan, and daughter, Emery.
Your Family Guide
Health & Wellness
Caring for the Caregiver
Why Supporting Parents’ Mental Health Strengthens the Whole Family
When families talk about mental health, the conversation often centers on children, including their emotions, friendships, academic pressures, and social challenges. Rarely does the spotlight shift to the adults quietly holding everything together.
Yet one essential truth remains: a child’s emotional well-being is deeply connected to the well-being of the adults raising them.
Parents and caregivers serve as the emotional anchors of a household. They set the tone for how stress is handled, how conflict is resolved, and how connection is nurtured. They manage schedules, carry the invisible mental load, and respond to everyone else’s needs, often before their own. Over time, that constant output can take a toll.
According to Rachel Heath, Behavioral Health Liaison for RiverValley Behavioral Health, that toll often shows up as burnout.
What Parental Burnout Really Looks Like
Burnout doesn’t always appear dramatic or obvious. It can surface quietly, as chronic exhaustion, irritability over small inconveniences, difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep, or a sense of emotional detachment. Some parents describe it as running on autopilot. Others experience persistent guilt for feeling overwhelmed, for not doing “enough,” or even for wanting a break.
Modern parenting carries unique pressures. Families are balancing extracurricular activities, academic expectations, social media comparisons, financial strain, and for many, the lingering emotional
impact of recent years. Add the mental checklist of appointments, forms, birthdays, practices, grocery lists, and work responsibilities, and it’s no surprise many caregivers feel stretched thin.
“When parents are overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally depleted, it doesn’t reflect a lack of love or effort,” Heath explains. “It reflects the realities of modern caregiving and the human limits we all have.”
The challenge is that many parents feel they must simply push through. After all, their children depend on them.
But children don’t need perfect parents. They need emotionally healthy ones.
Why Your Mental Health Matters to Your Child
Children are remarkably attuned to their caregivers’ emotional states. They notice subtle tone shifts, tension in a room, and stress that goes unspoken. When adults operate in a constant state of overwhelm, it can shape the emotional climate of the entire household. But the opposite is also true.
When parents model healthy coping, like taking breaks, naming emotions, apologizing when needed, and setting boundaries, children absorb those skills. They learn that stress is manageable, emotions are valid, and self-care is responsible, not selfish.
“Supporting parents is one of the most impactful ways to support children,” Heath says. “When caregivers feel resourced, rested, and regulated, the benefits ripple outward, improving communication, reducing family conflict, and creating the emotional stability children rely on.”
Taking care of yourself is not indulgent. It is instructional.
Small Shifts That Make a Big Difference
Supporting your own mental health does not require dramatic life changes. Sustainable habits are often small and consistent. Consider starting with:
• Protecting sleep: Even modest improvements in rest can significantly impact mood and patience.
• Building in micro-breaks: Ten minutes of quiet before bed, a short walk, or stepping outside for fresh air can reset the nervous system.
• Lowering the bar when needed: Not every meal must be homemade. Not every event must be attended.
• Staying connected: A quick text exchange, coffee with a friend, or participation in a small group can reduce isolation.
• Creating predictable family rhythms: Weekly check-ins, shared calendars, or designated family nights can reduce chaos and increase connection.
If stress feels persistent or overwhelming, like experiencing prolonged sadness, anxiety, or loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, consider speaking with a licensed counselor. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Creating a Culture of Support at Home
One of the most powerful messages parents can send is simple: it’s okay to ask for help.
When caregivers speak openly, in age-appropriate ways, about managing stress or prioritizing wellbeing, children learn that mental health is something we care for, just like physical health. They grow up understanding that seeking support is a strength.
It also helps to build support systems before a crisis arises. That may include leaning on extended family, engaging in community or faith groups, or connecting with local mental health resources. No one is meant to parent alone.
A Healthier Family Starts With a Supported Parent
The goal of parenting is not perfection. It is sustainability.
When caregivers are rested,
supported, and emotionally regulated, they respond with greater patience, communicate more clearly, and cultivate calmer home environments. That stability becomes the foundation children build upon.
“A child’s well-being is inseparable from the well-being of the adults caring for them,” Heath says. “This is something we see every day in clinical practice.”
Caring for the caregiver is not another item on an already full to-do list. It is one of the most meaningful investments a family can make. When parents are supported, the entire household grows stronger, together.
To learn more about RiverValley Behavioral Health or to schedule a family or individual therapy appointment, call 270-689-6879 or visit rvbh.com. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call, text, or chat 988 for immediate, confidential support. HF
Parent Cheat Sheet: When to Go Where
Clear guidance for common childhood illnesses and injuries— so you can make confident decisions fast.
Call the Pediatrician
›› Best for concerns that can wait a day or two
›› Fever under 102°F in children over 6 months who are drinking fluids and acting mostly normal
›› Ear pain, sore throat, or cough lasting more than 2–3 days
›› Rashes without fever or pain
›› Vomiting or diarrhea when your child is still hydrated
›› Behavior, sleep, or school concerns
›› Developmental, learning, or mental health questions
Helpful tip: Many pediatric offices offer same-day sick visits or nurse advice lines—call first when possible.
Visit Urgent Care
›› Best for same-day care when you can’t wait
›› Fever over 102°F that isn’t responding to medication but your child is alert
›› Suspected ear infections or strep throat
›› Minor cuts needing stitches
›› Sprains, minor fractures, or sports injuries
›› Mild asthma flare-ups that improve with inhalers
›› Flu, COVID, RSV, or strep testing
Helpful tip: Urgent care is ideal for evenings, weekends, or when your pediatrician isn’t available.
Go to the ER
›› Best for emergencies—don’t wait
›› Trouble breathing, wheezing, or lips turning blue
›› Head injury with vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness
›› Uncontrolled bleeding or deep wounds
›› Seizures or fainting
›› Severe allergic reactions (swelling of lips/face, trouble swallowing)
›› High fever over 104°F or fever in babies under 3 months
Helpful tip: If your child looks very ill or you feel something is seriously wrong, trust your instincts and go. HF
MICRO Q&A
Ask the Doc
Quick, trusted answers from local medical experts— designed to ease worries, clear up common myths, and help families feel more confident about their children’s health. These bite-sized insights tackle the questions parents think about every day but don’t always ask.
What’s one common health myth you wish parents would stop believing?
That every fever is dangerous or needs immediate treatment. Fever is often the body’s natural way of fighting infection. Rather than focusing only on the number, parents should watch how their child is acting, drinking fluids, and responding to care.
What’s something parents worry about that usually isn’t a big deal — and something they often overlook that is?
Parents often worry about things like picky eating, shortterm coughs, or mild colds. More commonly overlooked are sleep habits, hydration, stress levels, and screen time, which can significantly affect a child’s behavior, mood, and overall health.
When should a parent trust “wait and see,” and when should they call the doctor?
A “wait and see” approach is often appropriate for mild symptoms that are improving, such as a low-grade fever or runny nose. Parents should call the doctor if symptoms worsen, last longer than expected, interfere with normal activities, or if their child seems unusually lethargic, uncomfortable, or not themselves.
What’s one simple habit that would make the biggest difference in a child’s health?
Prioritizing consistent sleep routines. Adequate sleep plays a key role in immune health, growth, learning, and emotional regulation, and many common concerns improve when children are well rested.
What question do you wish families would ask more often during checkups?
“What should I expect next?” This opens the door to conversations about upcoming developmental milestones, emotional well-being, school challenges, and preventive care—helping families stay one step ahead. HF
Separating Fact From Fiction in Kids’ Health
When it comes to kids’ health, parents hear a lot of advice—from friends, family, social media, and even strangers in the grocery store aisle. While much of it is well-intended, not all of it is true. Clearing up common myths can help families make confident, informed decisions about their children’s health.
MYTH:
Sugar makes kids hyper
FACT:
Sugar doesn’t directly cause hyperactivity.
Research shows that excitement, environment, and lack of sleep are more likely to affect behavior than sugar itself. While too much sugar isn’t healthy, occasional treats are not the cause of big
energy swings.
MYTH:
Kids will just grow out of anxiety
FACT:
Anxiety is common—and treatable. Some worries are a normal part of growing up, but ongoing anxiety can affect sleep, school performance, and friendships. Early support helps children build healthy coping skills that last a lifetime.
MYTH:
Screens are always bad for kids
FACT:
Balance matters more than bans. Screens aren’t all bad, but too much screen time—especially before bed—can affect sleep,
mood, and focus. Setting limits and encouraging screen-free time for play, rest, and family connection makes a big difference.
MYTH:
A fever always means something serious
FACT:
Fever is often part of healing. Fever is the body’s way of fighting infection. What matters more than the number on the thermometer is how your child is acting, eating, drinking, and recovering.
MYTH:
If my child isn’t complaining, they must be fine
FACT:
Kids don’t always know how to explain what’s wrong. Changes in behavior, sleep, appetite, or mood can be signs that something isn’t quite right. Paying attention to these small changes—and trusting your instincts—can help catch concerns early.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Parenting doesn’t come with a handbook, and it’s normal to have questions. When in doubt, reliable information and open conversations with your child’s healthcare provider can replace myths with confidence—and help your family feel supported every step of the way. HF
Kids & Dental Care What Parents Really Need to Know
When Should Kids First See the Dentist— and the Orthodontist?
Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. These early visits help children get comfortable in the dental office and allow dentists to monitor development, catch concerns early, and guide parents on proper oral care. Orthodontic evaluations are usually recommended around age 7, when permanent teeth begin to emerge and bite or spacing issues can be identified early—even if treatment won’t begin for several years.
Brushing Battles: Making Oral Care Easier (and Less Stressful)
If brushing feels like a nightly struggle, you’re not alone. Making brushing part of a predictable routine helps kids know what to expect. Letting children choose their toothbrush or toothpaste flavor, using a timer or favorite song, and brushing together as a family can make the process more positive. Parents should assist or closely supervise brushing until children have the coordination to clean thoroughly on their own, typically around age 7 or 8.
Cavities
101:
What Causes Them—and How to Prevent Them
Cavities develop when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars left behind from food and drinks, creating acids that weaken tooth enamel over time. Frequent snacking, sugary beverages, and not brushing well can increase risk. To help prevent cavities, encourage water between meals, limit sugary snacks and drinks, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and keep up with regular dental checkups. HF
Family Wellness Challenge
Complete five in a row—any direction! Small, simple habits that help families feel their best.
I N G O
Drink water at every meal
Try a tech-free bedtime
Try a new fruit or veggie
Dance to one song
Eat breakfast together
Read for 10 minutes
Go outside today
Have an early bedtime
Take a 10-minute family walk
Have a family game night
Take a 5-minute calmdown break
Share three things you’re thankful for
Stretch together for 2 minutes
Swap one sugary drink
Pack a healthy snack
Have a screenfree dinner
Brush teeth together
Take five deep breaths
Eat something green
Write a kind note to someone
Follow a bedtime routine
Help make a meal
Share a family hug
Tidy up together
Play outside
Healthy Kids, Every Season
As the school year moves into its final months, children’s health needs continue to change right along with the seasons. From lingering winter illnesses to spring allergies, growth spurts, and end-of-year stress, each month brings something new. This seasonal wellness guide helps families know what to expect—and how to support their kids’ physical and emotional well-being— through the rest of the school year and into summer.
February: Winter Wellness Check
As winter routines continue, many families notice lingering colds and lower energy levels. With cold and flu season still present, kids may need extra rest and hydration. Shorter days can also affect mood, so paying attention to emotional well-being is just as important. Maintaining consistent sleep schedules and healthy habits helps kids stay resilient through the final stretch of winter.
March: Shifting Seasons & New Energy
As daylight increases and schedules shift, many children experience changes in energy and focus. Early allergy symptoms may begin, and kids may feel more restless as they spend more time outdoors. This is a good month to reinforce routines, encourage movement, and support kids as they adjust to changing expectations at school.
May: Finishing Strong
As the school year winds down, many families notice rising excitement alongside increased stress. Busy calendars, testing, and activities can leave kids feeling tired or overwhelmed. Supporting children with balanced meals, quality sleep, and regular check-ins can help them finish the year feeling confident and supported.
Summer: Rest, Reset & Reconnect
As schedules slow down, summer offers a chance to reset and recharge. With more outdoor time, hydration, sun safety, and physical activity become key focuses. Keeping some structure with sleep and meals, while allowing time for rest and connection, helps kids stay healthy and ready for the next school year. HF
Marsha’s Place
Pregnancy Resource Center
Marsha’s Place Pregnancy Resource Center has been serving the Henderson community for over 30 years. As a faith-based nonprofit ministry, our goal is to strengthen and equip families and share the love of Jesus Christ in all we do. All of our services are completely free for the families we serve. We have three main program areas offered at Marsha’s Place:
arsha’s Place Pregnancy Resource Center has been serving the Henderson community for over 30 years. As a faith-based nonprofit ministry, our goal is to strengthen and equip families and share the love of Jesus Christ in all we do All of our services are completely free for the families we serve We have three main program areas offered at Marsha’s Place:
Medical Clinic: Early Pregnancy Care
Medical Clinic
Our medical clinic is an easy first step for women and families who think they might be pregnant and are uncertain of what to do next Our medical staff provides pregnancy testing, STI testing & treatment, and limited OB ultrasounds for hundreds of families every year. All of these services are free (no insurance required) and confidential
Our medical clinic is an easy first step for women and families who think they might be pregnant and are uncertain of what to do next. Our medical staff provide pregnancy testing, STI testing & treatment, and limited OB ultrasounds for hundreds of families every year. All of these services are free (no insurance required) and confidential.
Beyond offering these medical services, our staff also provide a listening ear, compassionate hearts, and a place for women to discuss their next steps in pregnancy. These things are invaluable for families who are walking through an unexpected pregnancy and feel anxious, uncertain, or fearful. When these women receive excellent medical care and a supportive community, it enables them to feel confident moving forward in pregnancy.
Beyond these services, our staff also provide a listening ear, compassionate hearts, and a place for women to discuss their next steps in pregnancy. These things are invaluable for families who are walking through an unexpected pregnancy and feel anxious, uncertain, or fearful When these women receive excellent medical care and a supportive community, it enables them to feel confident moving forward in pregnancy
Earn While You Learn Program: Material Support to Age 3!
Earn While You Learn
The Earn While You Learn program exists to strengthen families through parenting education and material resource assistance. In this program, moms and dads have the opportunity to complete online and in-person classes at their own pace, from pregnancy until their child turns three. For each class completed, families earn points that can be spent in our Baby Boutique.
The Earn While You Learn program exists to strengthen families through parenting education and material resource assistance. In this program, moms and dads have the opportunity to complete online and in-person classes at their own pace, from pregnancy until their child turns three For each class completed, families earn points that can be spent in our Baby Boutique.
financial stability, and sustainable independence. Our homes are used for transitional housing, allowing for a 2-5-year stay. This extended stay provides our moms with the opportunity to achieve significant goals and work toward stability with a network of support around them.
Walking Alongside Families for the Long-Haul
Our homes are used for transitional housing, allowing for a 2-5-year stay This extended stay provides our moms with the opportunity to achieve significant goals and work toward stability with a network of support around them.
Walking Alongside Families
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, our Baby Boutique is able to provide all of the basic necessities for raising a child: diapers, wipes, clothing, car seats, pack ‘n’ plays, strollers, hygiene items, and much more! The average family in the EWYL program is able to save $1,750 a year!
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, our Baby Boutique is able to provide all of the basic necessities for raising a child: diapers, wipes, clothing, car seats, pack ‘n’ plays, strollers, hygiene items, and much more! The average family in the EWYL program is able to save $1,750 a year!
We hope our program offerings make it clear: we truly aim to walk side by side with families during the early, formative years of their child’s life, providing compassionate support, beneficial education, and a loving community to help families thrive.
We hope our program offerings make it clear: we truly aim to walk side by side with families during the early, formative years of their child’s life, providing compassionate support, beneficial education, and a loving community to help families thrive
Online education is offered through BrightCourse, a videostreaming service. BrightCourse offers lessons that are researchbased, easy to understand, and entertaining to watch. Lesson topics include: Pregnancy & Birth, Infant’s First Year, Parenting & Co-Parenting, Life Skills, Abuse & Trauma, Bible Studies, Fatherhood, and much more.
Online education is offered through BrightCourse, a video streaming service. BrightCourse offers lessons that are research-based, easy to understand, and entertaining to watch Lesson topics include: Pregnancy & Birth, Infant’s First Year, Parenting & Co-Parenting, Life Skills, Abuse & Trauma, Bible Studies, Fatherhood, and much more.
“ ” Marsha’s Place is the place to go for your baby’s needs and for someone to care for you.
Marsha's Place is the place to go for your baby's needs and for someone to care for you.
- M a r s h a ’ s P l a c e C l i e n t
- Marsha’s Place Client
One by One Program: Transitional Housing for Single Moms
One by One Program
One by One is a transformative initiative designed to empower single mothers and their families This program goes beyond providing temporary shelter, it offers a long-term approach that fosters lasting change
One by One is a transformative initiative designed to empower single mothers and their families. This program goes beyond providing temporary shelter, it offers a longterm approach that fosters lasting change.
One by One provides a small, newly renovated home, specifically designed for a single mom and her children who are active in our Earn While You Learn Program. Located less than a mile from Marsha’s Place, these safe and affordable homes represent a once-in-alifetime opportunity for personal growth, financial stability, and sustainable independence.
One by One provides a small, newly renovated home, specifically designed for a single mom and her children who are active in our Earn While You Learn Program. Located less than a mile from Marsha’s Place, these safe and affordable homes represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for personal growth,
Know someone who could benefit from our services? Contact us by calling (270) 826-9674 or by submitting an appointment request online: www.marshasplaceprc.org
Know someone who could benefit from our services? Contact us by calling (270) 826-9674 or by submitting an appointment request online: www.marshasplaceprc.org
Interested in learning more or supporting our work? Make plans to join us for our annual Night for Life, April 24th at 6:30pm. Visit our website to learn more! HF
Interested in learning more or supporting our work? Make plans to join us for our annual Night for Life, April 24th at 6:30pm. Visit our website to learn more!
Discover
10 Quirky Kids’ Books you Might’ve Missed (But
Shouldn’t!)
Not every great kids’ book comes from a list of classics, and honestly, that’s where some of the magic lives. The stories that stick with kids (and parents) tend to be a little quirky, a little unexpected, and a whole lot of fun. From laugh-out-loud picture books to adventurous chapter book series, these imaginative picks span first through fifth grade and include a few hidden gems you may not have discovered yet.
Skippy John Jones by Judy Schachner (Grades 1-3)
A wildly imaginative Siamese cat who believes he is a fearless Chihuahua embarks on hilarious adventures fueled by pure creativity.
Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems (Grade 1-3)
A sweet monster who’s not so good at being scary discovers that friendship can be more powerful than fright.
The Princes in Black
By Shannon Dale & Dean Hale (Grades 1-3)
A proper princess secretly becomes a monster-fighting superhero in this empowering chapter book series. Read them all!
The Sisters Grimm by Michael Buckley (Grades 3-5)
Two sisters learn they are descendants of fairy-tale characters and must solve magical mysteries in modern day town.
Narwhal
and
Jelly
by Ben Clanton (Grades 1-4)
An overly cheerful narwhal and a grumpy jellyfish form an unlikely friendship full of humor and heart.
Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer (Grades 4-5)
A brilliant young mastermind stumbles into a hidden fairy world in a clever blend of fantasy, humor, and adventure. When you finish reading it, grab some popcorn and the movie for a fun family night.
The
Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste (Grades 3-5) Inspired by Caribbean folklore, a brave girl must outsmart magical creatures to save her island home.
Creepy Carrots!
by Aaron Reynolds (Grades 1-3)
A carrot-loving rabbit becomes convinced his favourite vegetables are secretly following him in the not-too-spooky tale.
Alvin Ho by Lenore Look (Grades 2-4)
A laugh-out-loud chapter book series about a nervous but lovable boy navigating school, family, and everyday fears with a heavy dose of humor and heart.
Fortunately, the Milk
by Neil Gaiman (Grades 2-5)
A quick trip to buy milk turns into a wildly absurd adventure through time with pirates, dinosaurs and aliens. HF
THE 2026
Daycare & Preschool GUIDE
BUSY BEE EDUCARE
469 Klutey Park Plaza Drive
270-827-0923
DEACONESS CHILDREN’S ENRICHMENT CENTER
1411 N Elm Street
270-827-7169
HOLY NAME SCHOOL EARLY LEARNING PROGRAM
628 2nd Street
270-827-3425
FIRST KIDS PRESCHOOL
307 Center Street
270-826-2332
HENDERSON COMMUNITY
COLLEGE CHILDCARE DEVELOPMENT
2260 S Green Street
270-827-1867
KIDZ WORLD CHILDCARE, INC.
5790 Airline Road
270-831-9987
LEARNING ACADEMY
106 Hancock St Suite A
270-212-0035
PIDDER PADDER PRESCHOOL & CHILD LEARNING CENTER
337 Richardson Avenue
270-827-5437
RIVERVIEW SCHOOL
133 S Water Street
270-827-3674
THELMA B. JOHNSON EARLY LEARNING CENTER
631 N Green Street
270-854-0140
HENDERSON COUNTY SCHOOLS EXPANDS PRESCHOOL PROGRAM FOR 2026–2027
Henderson County Schools (HCS) has announced an expansion of its preschool program beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, adding classrooms at four elementary schools across the county.
New preschool classrooms will open at A.B. Chandler Elementary School, Cairo Elementary School, Niagara Elementary School, and Spottsville Elementary School. The preschool program at Thelma B. Johnson Learning Center will continue to operate as well.
All preschool programs will run on a full-day schedule, Monday through Thursday. State-funded preschool spots are available for 3- and 4-yearold children with a diagnosed disability, as well as 4-yearolds who turn four by August 1, 2026, and meet income eligibility guidelines. Tuition-based options are also available for children who turn three or four by August 1, 2026, but do not meet statefunded requirements.
Superintendent Dr. Bob Lawson said the expansion is designed to give more children access to early learning opportunities and ensure they are prepared for kindergarten and beyond.
For more information about eligibility and enrollment, families can contact Henderson County Schools.
Preschool Beginnings
LISTENING, LEARNING, AND LOVING THROUGH THE TRANSITION
It was a good thing I worked with a group of women who had been mothers for a lot longer than I had, and who were kind enough to share guidance, advice and the benefits of their experience with me as I floundered through my first few years of motherhood.
At one point, one of them asked if I had enrolled my son in school yet. I shook my head and replied, “No, he’s only 5.”
She gently reminded me that this was, indeed, the correct age to attend kindergarten.
This was back in the days before preschool was available. Thank goodness, because I guess my child would have been considered a truant.
These days, of course, children are eligible to attend preschool as early as age 3 or 4, depending on certain qualifications. Young mothers reading this issue of Owensboro Parent Magazine are more fortunate than I was, as this issue provides information on all local preschool options available to them.
But there is one other important tip that I would like to pass along, in the same spirit as was shown to me by those veteran moms all those years ago.
I encourage all parents and guardians who are preparing their child for preschool to remember one thing: Put yourself in their little shoes.
Not literally, of course (unless you have the feet of an elf). No, what I mean by that is, try to remember what it was like when you were a child. How did you feel, what were
your fears and concerns?
Of course, we as the trusted adults in our children’s lives want to set a positive example of excitement and enthusiasm about school. We want to talk about the fun they will have, the friends they will make, the things they will learn. But kids sometimes focus on things we never think about –or have forgotten.
What if I have to go to the bathroom?
What if I can’t find my classroom?
What if nobody likes me?
What if I get lost in the hallway?
What if I lose my backpack?
What if I get on the wrong bus?
What if I don’t like what they serve for lunch?
What if everybody else already knows how to read?
What if there is a monster in the cubby?
What if I sit next to a mean kid who calls me names when the teacher isn’t looking?
If possible, try to let the child visit the school and see the classroom before the first day of school. Remind them that teachers and other nice people will take care of them throughout the day and will make sure they get on the right bus. Assure them that there will be plenty of opportunities to go to the bathroom – and that it is fine to raise their hand if an emergency arises.
New clothes for the first day of school are nice, and a time-honored tradition, but the child may be more comfortable wearing a favorite outfit that is comfortable and familiar. Perhaps a small token of reassurance – a little stuffed animal, maybe –can be tucked into the child’s desk, available to be petted or held if the child becomes anxious.
Yes, by all means, talk to your child and describe what going to school looks like and what will happen. But don’t forget to listen too. Encourage your child to share his or her questions. No doubt, your child will be cared for by a kind and loving teacher – but parents and guardians are the first and best teachers in a child’s life. So embrace the preschool experience at home and encourage your child to ask questions. That’s what learning is all about! HF
WRITTEN BY
LORA WIMSATT
Lora is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.
Daily Routines That Make Preschool Easier
Strong routines at home help preschoolers feel confident, calm, and ready for school. Practicing simple daily habits before preschool starts can ease transitions and reduce stress for both kids and parents.
›› Aim for a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends, to support better focus and mood
›› Practice getting dressed, putting on shoes, and washing hands without rushing
›› Let children help pack their backpack or choose clothes the night before
›› Build in extra morning time to avoid hurried drop-offs
›› Talk through the day using simple language: “First school, then lunch, then pickup”
›› Create a predictable goodbye routine to help ease separation
›› Keep evenings calm with limited screens to support restful sleep
When routines are predictable and practiced at home, children are more likely to feel secure and confident once preschool begins. HF
Preschool Readiness Checklist
BEFORE REGISTERING, CONSIDER WHETHER YOUR CHILD CAN:
›› Follow simple directions
›› Separate from a caregiver
›› Communicate basic needs
›› Participate in group activities
›› Manage simple routines (snack, clean-up, nap time)
Preschool builds these skills—children don’t need to have them mastered before starting.
WHAT PRESCHOOL HELPS BUILD
Preschool supports growth beyond academics by helping children:
›› Learn to share and take turns
›› Listen and follow classroom routines
›› Build friendships and confidence
›› Explore curiosity through play
›› Develop independence and problem-solving skills
REGISTRATION & FIRST-DAY TIPS
›› Ask about daily routines and schedules
›› Practice short separations at home
›› Keep goodbyes brief and positive
›› Label belongings
›› Trust that adjustment takes time
QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU ENROLL
›› What is the daily schedule and classroom routine?
›› What is the teacher-to-student ratio?
›› How do you help children adjust during the first few weeks?
›› How do teachers communicate with parents?
›› What is your approach to discipline and behavior guidance?
›› Are snacks or meals provided, and how are allergies handled?
›› What safety measures are in place?
›› How do you support social and emotional development?
›› What is expected of children before they start?
›› What are the hours, tuition, and registration deadlines? HF
Out & About
6 Local Things to do THIS SEASON
1
Sunday Funday for Families
SUNDAYS FROM 2:30 – 3:30 P.M.
HENDERSON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
{
Make the library your family’s Sunday destination! Each week features a new activity for families and kids of all ages— crafts, games, stories, and surprises. Free and open to the public, it’s a great way to connect, learn, and laugh together.
Tri-Fest 5K Run/Walk & Habi-Tot Trot
APRIL 18 AT 7:40 & 8 A.M. CENTRAL PARK, DOWNTOWN HENDERSON {
Start your Tri-Fest day with the 35th Annual Breakfast Lions Club 5K benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Henderson. The certified race kicks off at 8:00 a.m., with medals and awards to follow. Don’t miss the 9th Annual Habi-Tot Trot Kids Dash at 7:40 a.m. for children ages 7 and under. Funds raised support local homebuilding efforts.
3 2
Tri-Fest
APRIL 18
DOWNTOWN HENDERSON {
A fun-filled day in historic downtown Henderson with carnival rides, festival food, vendors, fireworks, live music, and more. This high-energy street fair brings the entire community together each April for food, fun, and family tradition.
Calpulli Mexican Dance
APRIL 24 FROM 7 – 9 P.M.
PRESTON ARTS CENTER
{
Experience a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture through dance and music as the Calpulli Mexican Dance Company takes the stage. Their performances share stories of tradition, family, love, and hope. Tickets are $30.
Henderson Farmers Market – Opening Day
MAY 2
HENDERSON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
{
Celebrate the start of market season with the opening day of the Henderson Farmers Market. Shop fresh, local produce, meat, wine, honey, baked goods, and more. Open Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. throughout the season.
SummerFest
MAY 16
DOWNTOWN HENDERSON
{
The 5th Annual SummerFest returns with live music, kids’ activities, vendor booths, and local dining. Held in the heart of downtown Henderson, this free event supports local charities through entertainment and community connection. 6
Your Nature
Mural:
225 2nd St
Nourish Mural: 13 S Main St
FAMILY CHALLENGE
Selfie Saturday
There is something special about a Saturday spent entirely on foot in downtown Henderson. Our Selfie Saturday Family Challenge calls for no rushing and no big spending. Just tacos, sidewalk laughter, family photos, and maybe a scoop of ice cream if you’re good.
Start your afternoon at Tacoholics. On Saturdays, one kids meal is free with the purchase of an adult meal, which means you’re fueling up without draining the wallet. Tacos are universally approved by even the pickiest tiny diners, so this should be a relatively dramafree experience.
Once lunch is handled, it’s time for the challenge.
Kentucky Roots Mural: 195 Main St
Murial Mural: 324 N Water St
Downtown Henderson doubles as your selfie backdrop thanks to a growing collection of vibrant murals. Make your way to each one listed below and strike your best pose, funniest face, or attempt a coordinated jumping shot. Let the kids direct one photo. Try a mid-air jump. Be dramatic. Be silly. Be Henderson proud.
Then send your photos to Henderson Family, we just might feature your crew in an upcoming issue.
After the cameras are full and the laughter quota is met, make one more stop at Butler Apothecary, where single scoops are just $2. Share if you want. Don’t share if you don’t. We won’t judge.
From there, it’s just a hop, skip, and jump (and we truly recommend doing the hopping and skipping) to Sunset Park
Let the kids run through the playground and work those sugar wiggles out, while parents take a breather watching the Ohio River drift past.
Family time on a budget. On foot. In the heart of your hometown. What could be better than that? HF
