2/23 Fort Campbell Life

A look inside...

Contributors

Dave Marshall Courtney Weber

Publisher Creative ink Creative Director Sears Hallett Advertising Kristi Williams 270-484-0463

kristi@creativeinktn.com

http://www.mixthatdrink.com

onecreativemommy.com

Hello all,

Happy February! On to month two of 2023. To help you kick off this month with a bang, we are bringing you some great stories to help you navigate through Valentine’s Day. Need restaurant ideas? We got them. Need gift ideas? We got those too. We even have movie recommendations so you don't have to scroll endlessly through Netflix.

We have made Valentine’s Day super easy for you this month, and we hope you enjoy it!

I can't wait to see what next month has in store for us.

It has been a couple of years since we introduced you to new restaurants in the area. Covid had a lot to do with that. Over the past year new restaurants have been sprouting up and offering you and your family some great new options to try. Thanks to our readers we have reviews for each new restaurant to give you insight on what to expect.

The Mailroom

116 N 2nd St, Clarksville mailroomtn.com

Made-from-scratch meals that are cooked to perfection on a wood-fired grill. They also serve craft cocktails on tap.

“Very hip yet industrial feeling! The building is stunning inside! Service was amazing and quick so no complaints. The bar was currently pretty generous with allocated bourbons and other great drink choices. Food choices were fun, culturally diverse, and tasted great!”

- Matt C via Google Reviews

Island Fin Pokè

2305 Madison St, Clarksville islandfinpoke.com

There delicious and fresh poke bowls will have you coming back for more!

Do not forget the Dole Whip!

“Their food was really good. There is a big variety and it all tasted so fresh. The staff was so friendly, helpful, and very patient! And definitely finish with the soft serve.”

- Cindy F via Google Reviews

Tita Boba TN

100 Main St, Clarksville

toasttab.com/titabobatn/v3

Are you hunting for a refreshing Boba drink? Give Tita Boba a try! You are sure to love every drink on their menu.

“Went here for the first time and had no idea what to get. Upon recomendation I tried the peach boba drink and the classic milk one! My husband went to Taiwan and said the boba drinks were so similar…the best he’s had in the states.”

- Cindy F via Google Reviews

Legends Smokehouse & Grill

803 S Riverside Dr, Clarksville

legendssmokehouseandgrill.com

Did someone say BBQ? Legends specializes in artisan-smoked barbecue meats, signature sides and chef inspired desserts.

“Legends is amazing! The food is always delicious, there is something for everyone! Kevin the owner is so nice and friendly. He always comes and says hi and makes sure you're enjoying your food. All of the staff is helpful and polite.”

- Monique S via Google Reviews

Taco Johns

1806 Ft. Campbell Blvd Clarksville 945 N Riverside Dr, Clarksville tacojohns.com

Move over Taco Bell, this is your new favorite speedy Mexican joint! You can never have too many tacos.

“Very friendly staff, clean restaurant. Had the chicken taco salad and we all loved it! I especially loved the bowl. Would recommend and will eat there again!!”

- Robin R via Google Reviews

WildFlour Bake Shop

2237 Lowes Dr, Clarksville facebook.com/wildflourbakeshoptn/

Breakfast or dessert, this is a place you are going to want to try out on your next brunch day.

“A family-owned business. Friendly service and most importantly fantastic food! I had the cinnamon roll French toast with regular syrup and it was amazing! I can’t wait to go back and try other menu items! I definitely think this will become my favorite breakfast.”

- Leigh G via Google Reviews

Rock N Roll Sushi

108 Morris Rd #104, Clarksville

rocknrollsushi.com/locations/clarksville-tn

Hibachi and sushi, you can not beat it. Especially when it comes with a super cool atmosphere that is 80's themed.

“First time to visit and eat at a Rock and Roll Sushi! If you love Rock and Roll, especially 80’s music and super cool atmosphere- and yummy food- check it out! I had the VIP Roll and it was delicious! My son got the hibachi steak and chicken, a roll and appetizer…not a crumb was left!”

- Kimberly S via Google Reviews

Bethlehem Mexican Bakery 2851-A Fort Campbell Blvd, Clarksville facebook.com/Bethlehemmexicanbakery

If you are on the hunt for some authentic Mexican pastries like Grandma used to make, then give Bethlehem's a try. You will love their bread and Tres Leches.

“Look no further if you love Mexican pastries, they have a wide variety of selections and if you love tres leches cake they also have individual pieces in their side refrigerator. They always have fresh bread in the morning, going here is guaranteed to leave you with a smile.”

- Leigh G via Google Reviews

Common Ground Cafe

350 Pageant Ln # 102, Clarksville commongroundclarksville.org

Breakfast, sandwiches, and more! This cute little cafe is a great spot to stop by and check out. It is also a non-profit, so your business is going to a great cause.

“Great food and an even greater cause! Portions are huge and they have several regular menu options as well as weekly specials. I love their tea and lemonade choices! They have kind and courteous staff members who will brighten your day!”

- Stephanie S via Google Reviews

Casa D'Italia

1345 Fort Campbell Blvd, Clarksville

facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087160646680

This authentic Italian joint is a must try for all of our pasta lovers. Be sure to wear your comfy pants, because you will leave stuffed.

“This was delicious!!! This place is a must-try! The food was so tasty and such big portions I had a hard time finishing my whole meal.”

The Local 914 S Main St, Hopkinsville facebook.com/thelocalhopkinsville/

Amazing American cooking for all of the steak and burger lovers out there. The atmosphere is sure to make this dinner one that you will not forget.

“The food was absolutely amazing! The atmosphere was absolutely amazing! The owner came by our table himself to check on how our meal was and to deliver drinks from the bar! Everyone was very nice and the wait staff was phenomenal!”

- Crystal H via Google Reviews

- Mikia F via Google Reviews

Yada on Franklin

111 Franklin St, Clarksville

yadaonfranklin.com

Breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. No matter what time of day you come, these delicious and unique dishes will sure to bring a smile to your face. It is a fun dining experience where you are encouraged to share the dishes with your loved one.

“I am leaving this stellar establishment intensely satisfied with the service I received. From the top-notch grilled cheese so generously packed with smoked gouda cheese and delicious thick slices of bacon, to the scrumptious towering tiramisu .” - Ryan K via Google Reviews

Edward’s Steakhouse 107 Franklin St, Clarksville edwardssteakhouse.net

What is better than a delicious steak and a romantic setting for Valentine's day? If you want the classic , then Edward’s is your dinner stop this year.

“Great atmosphere, really polite staff that is knowledgeable about the menu and the daily specials. Nice background music makes for a great meal for a couple.” - JD N via Google Reviews

Harper House

123 D.J. Everett Dr, Cadiz harperhouseky.com

This is a upscale American dining restaurant on a historic site featuring brick walls, a pianist and silent films. It is a great date night spot.

“The food was amazing. This is a great place! Definitely one of my new favorites. We will be back soon. The salmon is on the top of my list for best salmon. The cornbread was so good. I loved the broccoli also.” - Allison S via Google Reviews

Storming Crab

2135 Lowes Dr, Clarksville stormingcrabs.com

Nothing says love like crabs legs! Bring your love in to Storming Crab to enjoy a mouth watering seafood boil.

“If you are looking for good seafood, this is the place!! The service was great. She explained how the menu worked. Food came out quick and hot and was very good.” - Melanie D via Google Reviews

Garrison Oak

777 Winners Way, Oak Grove (inside Oak Grove Gaming)

oakgrovegaming.com/dining/garrison-oak-steakhouse/

If you are craving an elegant atmosphere and impeccable service at a signature steakhouse, then the Garrison Oak is for you.

“Everything was awesome. I am a very picky person and everything.we ordered was perfect. The steak, loaded potato, halibut with gumbo seasoning on top and the crab cakes as an appetizer." - Pam S via Google Reviews

If your kiddos have been bitten by the lovebug and are eager to participate in Valentine's Day this year, then these crafts from OneCreativeMommy.com have you covered. They are not only super easy, but they are also unique and adorable. Give them a try this Valentine's Day!

Playing Card Banner

Supplies:

The heart cards from 1 or 2 decks of playing cards • A hole punch • fabric scraps Baker’s twine or string • heart cutouts

Directions:

1. Punch two holes in the top of each card.

2. Cut your fabric into strips.

3. Glue or stick on your heart-shaped embellishments.

4. Measure and cut enough twine to cover the length of your mantel plus some extra for the banner to hang down, and string the cards onto the twine.

5. Tie on your fabric strips between the cards.

6. To attach the fabric strips, make a loop with the fabric, and slide the loop under the twine as shown. Tuck the loose ends over the twine and through the loop. Adjust the ends so that the right side of the fabric is showing and tighten by gently pulling on the loose ends while holding onto the twine. (Your ties should look like little neckties.)

7. Attach your banner to the mantel, and spread out the ribbon and cards until it's just the way you like it.

Valentine Birdhouse Box

Supplies:

1 small cardboard box + extra pieces from another box • box cutter or craft knife tape • wrapping paper • A small stick or foam dart

Directions:

1. Using a craft knife, cut the box to resemble the shape above.

2. Cut a piece from another box to use as the roof.

3. Wrap the birdhouse and roof shapes separately in coordinating wrapping paper.

4. Trace a circle to use as a fake window in the birdhouse, and glue it to the front of the house.

5. Cut a small hole under the window, and insert a Nerf dart or a small stick to use as a perch. Wrap the dart or stick with something on the inside of the box to keep it from sliding back out of the hole.

6. Tape the roof to the box, taping it down from the inside. Only attach one side, leaving the second side free to open and close.

7. Decorate the house with stickers, or leave it plain

The Fort Campbell Spouses Club is happy to announce that scholarship applications are now OPEN!

Scholarship applications for dependent high school seniors and spouses are due March 31, 2023.

For eligibility and application visit at https://www.fortcampbellspousesclub.org/fcsc-scholarships

For more information about the FCSC, you can visit their website at https://www.fortcampbellspousesclub.org

Clarksville Social

Wilma Rudolph Center 5:30pm

cityofclarksville.com/383/Clarksville-Social Clarksville Social is a great date night with your special someone, a night out with friends, or a place to meet new friends. Join us for charcuterie, wine, dancing, and mingling at this upscale vendor event for adults 21 and up. General Admission is $35 and includes entry, a complimentary glass of wine, and a personal charcuterie grazing box. VIP tickets are $50 and include early access, a special VIP gift, a complimentary glass of wine, and a unique charcuterie grazing box.

Antiques and Garden Show

Music City Center Nashville

antiquesandgardenshow.com

The longest-running, largest event of its kind in the country will once again breathe its warmth, life and style with over 150 antiques, art and horticultural exhibitors, magnificent gardens, a cocktail party or two, and some of the most renowned design, landscape and architectural speakers in the world. This volunteer-managed show has raised nearly $9 million for Cheekwood and ECON Charities.

A Tribute to the King with Travis LeDoyt

Alhambra Theatre Hopkinsville 7pm

pennyroyalartscouncil.ticketspice.com/travisledoyt

Attention all Elvis fans! The Pennyroyal Arts Council presents Travis LeDoyt:Tribute to The King as part of the LIVE at the Historic Alhambra Theatre series.

Travis LeDoyt is known as “The World’s Best” at portraying young Elvis Presley in his prime in the ‘50s and ‘60s. His uncanny resemblance to the “King of Rock and Roll” has audiences gasping when he takes the stage.

Polar Bear Plunge

Swan Lake Swimming Pool Clarksville 9am cityofclarksville.com

Release your inner polar bear by diving into the chilly waters of Swan Lake Swimming Pool for our first Polar Bear Plunge! Proceeds from this event will help fund our Gliding Guppies Free Swim Lesson Program. Bring your own towels or blankets and prepare to take the plunge for a good cause! T-shirts included with registration.

Youth Baseball Coaching Clinic

The Ridge Training Center Cadiz • 10am facebook.com/ events/1152992

812024487

Learn drills for your team from local high school baseball coaches. Fielding fundamentals,pitching, catching, base running and rules.

Health Fair

Governors Square Mall Clarksville 10am 1913clarksvillealumnae.net

Join the Clarksville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority as we host a community health fair providing health care resources, fitness,and nutrition information.

Compass Creative Dramatics The Wizard of Oz

Alhambra Theatre

Hopkinsville

pennyroyalarts.org/smarts

Performances of the Wizard of Oz for students grades K-12.

Nashville Vintage Clothing & Jewelry Show

The Fairgrounds Nashville vintageclothingandjewelry.com

17-18

Expect 75 vintage vendors from all over the country featuring vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Vintage is more popular than ever. Vintage collectibles are generally well-made and of higher quality. It is frequently less expensive than new items of comparable quality. Its appeal includes being local, green, and sustainable. All ages are welcome.

My Funny Valentine

Valor Hall Conference & Event Center Oak Grove visitoakgroveky.com

“My Funny Valentine”- A hilarious Valentines Day date night with dinner and improv & musical comedy featuring The Nashville Improv Factory and music. 18+only.

Wine in the Winter Fest

Hilton Nashville

wineinthewinter.com

The 7th Annual Wine in the Winter is an experiential tasting where attendees can take a break from the cold and sample over 100+

wine, beer and spirits in a Winter Wonderland setting in the heart of downtown Nashville.

Wine in the Winter will be at the Hilton Nashville Downtown Ballroom from 5pm-9pm!

Grab your friends, dress up, and join us for a fun tasting experience to add to your winter season!

Our Kids Soup Sunday Nissan Stadium Club Level West facebook.com/OurKidsCenter/

The annual Our Kids Soup Sunday benefitting Our Kids is from 11am to 2pm. There will be soups from

dozens of Nashville restaurants, celebrity and culinary judges, and activities for kids including face painting and balloon art. Tickets are $25 per adult and $5 per child (3 years old and under are free).

Black History Celebration War Memorial Building Hopkinsville 5pm

A saga of pain and resilience presented by Naomi Chapter 6 Order of the Eastern Star.

Hot Chocolate 5k/10k/15k

Bicentennial Park Nashville hotchocolate15k.com/city/nashville/ Runs start at 7am. Gear check opens 90 mins before start time. A chocolate lover’s oasis awaits at the post-run party! Celebrate your accomplishment with a finisher mug that includes fondue, dippables, and our very own hot chocolate, while checking out our exciting vendors and listening to great tunes! Free high-res photos and your race time will be emailed to all participants as soon as they cross the finish line. The link below will also be updated on race day, so be sure to check back then!

Time to get cozy with your sweetheart.

Here are some drinks to light the romance fire.

1 1⁄2 ounces vanilla vodka

1 ounce Godiva chocolate liqueur

1 ounce Chambord

1 ounce half-n-half

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Pour in all ingredients, and shake until chilled. Rim a martini glass with pink sugar (you can make your own pink sugar by mixing sugar with a couple drops of red food coloring). Strain the mixture into the glass, and serve.

2 ounces champagne

2 ounces Stoli Strasberi vodka

1 1⁄2 ounces pineapple juice

1⁄2 ounces strawberry daiquiri mix

Pour the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice, and shake gently to mix. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a strawberry.

1 1⁄2 ounces gin

1 1⁄2 ounces sweet vermouth

2 dashes Fernet-Branca

Put some ice in a mixing glass and pour in all three ingredients. Stir to chill, and strain the mixture into a chilled glass. Twist an orange peel over the surface of the drink. Garnish with the orange twist.

The Creamy Chocolate Raspberry Cocktail

Strawberry Blonde Drink Recipe with Champagne

Hanky Panky Cocktail

Are you on the hunt for the perfect romantic movie? If so, we have a list of some of the most popular and current romantic films on Netflix. Check one or two out on February 14th as you sip on your wine and munch on some chocolates.

Malcolm and Marie

“A filmmaker on the brink of Hollywood glory and his girlfriend, whose story made his career, find themselves pushed towards a reckoning as a single tumultuous night decides the fate of their relationship.”

After Ever Happy

“As a shocking truth about a couple's families emerges, the two lovers discover they are not so different from each other. Tessa is no longer the sweet, simple girl she was when she met Hardin.”

Five Feet Apart

“Seventeen-year-old Stella spends most of her time in the hospital as a cystic fibrosis patient. Her life is full of routines, boundaries and self-control -- all of which get put to the test when she meets Will, an impossibly charming teen who has the same illness. There’s an instant flirtation, though restrictions dictate that they must maintain a safe distance between them. As their connection intensifies, so does the temptation to throw the rules out the window and embrace that attraction.”

A Perfect Pairing

“To win over a major client, a go-getter LA wine executive signs on to work at an Australian sheep farm, where she sparks with a rugged and mysterious local.”

Someone Great

“Dumped by her long-term boyfriend, a music journalist recruits her two best friends for one last outrageous adventure in New York City before she moves to San Francisco.”

Persuasion

“When Frederick Wentworth -- the one who got away -- crashes back into Anne Elliot’s life, she must choose between putting the past behind her or listening to her heart when it comes to second chances.”

Purple Hearts

“Cassie, a struggling singer-songwriter agrees to marry a troubled Marine, Luke for military benefits. The line between real and pretend begins to blur.”

The Half of It

“A shy, straight-A Chinese-American student helps the school jock woo a girl whom, secretly, they both desire. They find themselves connecting and learn about the nature of love.”

Holidate

“Fed up with being single on holidays, two strangers agree to be each other’s platonic plus-ones all year long, only to catch real feelings along the way.”

All the Bright Places

“After meeting each other, two teenagers struggle with the emotional and physical scars of their pasts. They discover that even the smallest moments can mean something.”

by Courtney Mambourg Grit Fitness & Wellness

Here we are, nearly a month into the New Year. As a personal trainer, I have to ask, how are those resolutions going? After ten years in the business, I think I have a pretty good idea.

Resolutions do not work. Period. End of Story.

The word “year” kills any and all hope to succeed. We set resolutions for an entire 12 months. If it’s an entire year, it has to be a big goal. We need to accomplish a lot in that extended period of time. The goal can completely overwhelm you by springtime.

This year I do not want you to create resolutions. I want CONFIDENCE! Ed Mylett, host of a popular podcast, said, “Confidence is the process of keeping promises to yourself”.

Ever tried to create confidence for a full year? It’s called a New Year’s Resolution. So here’s the million-dollar question I get every December & January, “What can I do differently?”.

Start small. Do not aim for 12 months. The secret to any and all success… fitness, career, family…. can be found in your daily routine. Aim for one day at a time

Here are 4 of my favorite, yet simple, promises to keep each day:

1) Water

The amount of people who look past this simple daily task that has a ton of weight loss and wellness benefits amazes me. Water helps dissolve minerals and nutrients, making them more accessible to the body. It also helps remove waste products. Water is essential for the kidneys to function. If the kidneys do not function properly, waste products and excess fluid can build up inside the body.

Water drinking tips:

• Aim for 64-88oz of water to start

• Go out and buy a 20-28oz water bottle to keep with you

2) Elimination

At the start of the year, most Resolutions will begin with “I am giving up carbs, chocolate, and alcohol”. That is a lot to give up for an extended period of time. Instead of coming out guns blazing, try to eliminate a poor nutrition choice you do daily. You should treat yourself occasionally, not every single day.

Some daily elimination ideas:

• Coffee creamer and/or Starbucks etc.

• Wine or alcohol

• Handful of M&Ms or other sweets

• Eating out

3) Move

You do not, I repeat, you do not need to run out and attempt to kill yourself on the treadmill for an hour every day.

The risk of injury and lack of sustainability increases. I encourage people new to the exercise game to aim for 4-5 small daily exercises that can be done at the foot of your bed.

Sample Exercises:

• Wall Sit

• Push-Up

• Bicycle

• Plank

• Bridge

Try 1 minute per exercise and repeat 3-4 times.

4) Vegetables

We heard it all the time as kids, “Eat your vegetables”. Most adults fail to get at least 1 serving of vegetables in a day. Please do not underestimate the benefits of simply adding these to your diet.

Top 3 vegetables you should be eating:

• Spinach

• Asparagus

• Sweet Potato

Are you looking to gift your spouse something different this year that is outside the normal boring realm of chocolate and flowers? Then this is the perfect guide for you. Surprise your loved one with a new twist on a Valentine’s Day gift this year. All of these gifts can be found on uncommongoods.com

Date Night In: An Activity Journal for Couples

A fun activity for you two to do your next date night in! Date Night In features quizzes, chances to draw the story of how you met, and prompts to think about the type of future you want together.

Long Distance Touch Bracelet Set

Send love long distance through these connected bracelets. Perfect for when your soldier is away. Touch one and the other lights up and vibrates.

The Couple's Bucket List

There is no better gift than one you can do together. Add a new spark to your relationship via fun date night idea prompts.

Make Your Own Chocolate Truffles Kit

Make a box of unforgettable chocolate truffles at home with this DIY kit.

Redwood Succulent Heart Kit

Give fans of succulents (and partners who don’t like flowers that die fast) a living kit that will keep living long past Valentine’s Day

Personalized Hand-Written Letter Blanket

Write a love letter, and turn it into a blanket for your spouse to keep forever. It can help keep them warm while you are away.

Decorative Wine Serving Tray

Bring your love a tray of different wines to taste on a tray that comes complete with your names and anniversary dates.

The predecessor to Black History Month was created in 1926 in the United States by Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. It was a week-long observance during the second week of February. It was called “Negro History Week”. At the time of the week's launch, Woodson stated that the teaching of Black History was essential to ensure the physical and intellectual survival of the race.

This week was originally chosen because it was close to the birthday of Abraham Lincoln on February 12th and that of Frederick Douglass on February 14th.

“Negro History Week” grew in popularity throughout the following decades, with mayors across the United States encouraging others to celebrate it as a holiday.

So how did the Black History Month that we know today come to be? Black History Month was first proposed by Black educators and the Black United Students at Kent State University in February 1969. This proposal led to the first celebration of Black History Month at Kent State a year later, from January 2 to February 28, 1970.

Six years later, Black History Month was being celebrated all across the country at institutions big and small. This then led to President Gerald Ford recognizing Black History Month in 1976.

He urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history”. When it was first created, Black History Month resulted in some controversy. Some questioned whether it was appropriate to confine the celebration of Black history to one month, as opposed to the integration of Black history into mainstream education for the whole of the year.

Today, Black History Month is widely celebrated and loved. In February 2020 Forbes noted that “much of corporate America is commemorating” Black History Month including The Coca-Cola Company, Google, Target Corporation, Macy's, United Parcel Service, and Under Armour.

Take Your Child to the Library Day falls in February, and there is no better way to celebrate than to load your children up with a ton of fun books to enjoy all month long. If you are unsure of what to buy them, here are a few suggestions to start that book list off strong.

Little Blue Truck's Valentine

by Alice Schertle

“Join Little Blue Truck as he delivers Valentine’s Day cards to all his farm animal friends. But as Blue beeps along, he starts to wonder: will he get any cards of his own?”

Mary Anne’s Bad Luck Mystery

by Ann M. Martin

“Mary Anne should never have thrown away that chain letter she got in the mail. Ever since she did, bad things have been happening to everyone in The Baby-sitters Club. With Halloween coming up, Mary Anne’s even more worried -- what kind of spooky thing will happen next?”

The Monkey Who Saved the Zoo

by Adisan Books

“Meet Chip, the lovable monkey who keeps the zoo safe from any animals who try to escape. With his quick thinking and reflexes, Chip is always on the lookout for trouble and is ready to act at a moment's notice. Whether he’s chasing down escaped tigers or calming down disgruntled elephants, Chip is the hero the zoo needs to maintain order and prevent chaos. Find out how this monkey stops the Grumpy Pirate Penguin!”

Wanted: A Brave Knight

by V Moua

“Sammy sees a posted sign that reads ‘Wanted: A Knight.’ This little bird is excited for the opportunity to be a knight but will he have what it takes? Is Sammy brave enough? Read the book to find out!”

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea

by Dav Pilkey

“Piggy is back, and his newest plot is his most diabolical yet. Dog Man and the rest of your favorite characters must join together in this heroic and hilarious, all new adventure. What new villains are on the horizon? Where are they all coming from? And who will step forward to save the city when scoundrels sabotage our Supa Buddies?”

Construction Site: You’re Just Right

by Sherri Duskey Rinker

“It’s Valentine's Day at the construction site, and every truck finds a special note just for them—but who is the mystery writer? Lift the flaps to reveal sweet and silly messages and celebrate the kindness of true friends.”

Taylor Swift: A Little Golden Book Biography

by Wendy Loggia

“Help your little one dream big with a Little Golden Book biography about Taylor Swift, the Grammy Award–winning and multiplatinum artist. Little Golden Book biographies are the perfect introduction to nonfiction for preschoolers!”

The One and Only Ruby

by Katherine Applegate

“Ruby’s story picks up a few months after the events of The One and Only Bob. Now living in a wildlife sanctuary, Ruby’s caretaker from the elephant orphanage in Africa where she grew up is visiting. Seeing him again brings back a flood of memories both happy and sad of her life before the circus, and she recounts the time she spent in the African savannah to Ivan and Bob.”

Moon Rising

by Tui T. Sutherland

“Peace has come to Pyrrhia... for now. The war between the tribes is finally over, and now the dragonets of the prophecy have a plan for lasting peace: Jade Mountain Academy, a school that will gather dragonets from all the tribes and teach them to live together, perhaps even as friends.”

For the most up to date information on USO programs, visit our website: https://fortcampbell.uso.org/events

When a member of your family joins the military, you must prepare for multiple moves in the near future. For many soldiers, their first move comes only a few short months after they join the service. On average, a military family packs up and moves every few years. Packing and unpacking constantly can become very overwhelming for many individuals. After a few moves though, many households become relocation pros and develop a few tips and tricks. We are here to share those with you today. Having a few helpful hacks up your sleeve can turn your impending PCS into a breeze. Which ones do you plan on trying out?

Storing Important Documents

Purchasing an accordion folder that you can label each individual tab can be a storage game-changer. Having folders that are categorized by Birth Certificates, Social Security Cards, Marriage Certificates, Tax Papers, Moving Documents and more can really keep these important papers close and organized.

Stock Up on Ziplock Bags

Ziplock bags are incredibly handy in a move. They are a great way to group together things like jewelry, cosmetic products, and dry foods. When everything is properly kept together and stored, it makes the unpacking process so much easier. Also remember, if you take something apart, tape the Ziplock bag that holds all the pieces to the bulk of the furniture so you don’t lose them.

Plan Meals Around Your Perishable Foods

Having to throw away your entire freezer and fridge before a move can be painful. Groceries are expensive, so it can feel as if you’re literally throwing away money. That is why it is such a great idea to plan out meals two weeks before your big move that eats up a majority of these foods.

Closet Hack

Having to take all of your clothes off the hangers to pack them up can seem daunting. Not only does it take forever, but your clothes get all wrinkled in the boxes. Instead, secure your clothes inside a trash bag while they are still on the hanger. Use a rubber band to tie together the hanger’s hooks to keep them from separating. Once you get to your new location, simply remove the bags and the bands and hang back up your clothes.

Colored Tape

Dedicate each room of your house to a certain tape color. Only use that one color to tape up the boxes for that single room. Doing this will help make unpacking all of your boxes a breeze, because they will all be color coordinated for you.

Alternate Oven Mitt Uses

Packing your sharp objects like your knives and scissors can get a little tricky. If they are not stored correctly, they can easily become a moving hazard. A simple hack to this problem is to store your sharp objects into your oven mitts. Just be sure you remember they are in there when it comes time to unpack.

Prevent Tangled Cords

Did you know that you can reuse old toilet paper and paper towel holders in your move? Just wrap your computer, TV, printer, and phone cords up with them to help prevent tangles. Who wants to spend their first night in their new home battling tangled electrical cords?