Purchase Area Family Magazine February-March 2021 Edition by Purchase Area Family Magazine

PURCHASE AREA

FAMILY

P. O. B ox 8 0 6 1 Pa d u c a h , K Y 4 2 0 0 2 2 7 0 . 5 5 9 . 5 8 4 0 admin@allgoodmedia.net

Editor/Publisher Karen Hammond Contributing Writers Britt Allgood, Cassie Johnson, Dr. Spencer E. Romine, & Kathy Wimberley Advertising Sales Director Cassie Johnson Calendar of Events Tell our readers about your event, class or group! Send an email to admin@allgoodmedia.net or call the office at 270.559.5840. Advertising Want to advertise your business in the magazine? Have a question regarding ad rates, billing or your account? Contact our advertising department at 270.559.5840 or admin@allgoodmedia.net.

Art Director/Graphic Design Kristal D. Stallion Subscription & Distribution Want to subscribe or receive a copy of the magazine by mail? Need a back issue? Want to add a location to our distribution? Please call our office at 270.559.5840 or email admin@allgoodmedia.net. Mission Statement PAFM is committed to providing free, accurate, and timely information to readers in western Kentucky, southern Illinois and all its communities. Our goal is to educate, inform, and enhance family life. We endeavor to support our communities by providing balanced and informative articles, together with the area’s calendar of events.

on the cover Book for Hope

Bethany Crouch dancing with her son, Rylan front cover portrait by

Matt Hernandez Creative

matthernandezcreative.com

table of contents Book for Hope presents Dance for Gold ........................................ 6 iGarden: Seed Starting 101 .............................................................................. 9

Purchase Area Family® is published bi-monthly by All Good Media, LLC. Advertising design and layout by Kristal D. Stallion. All Good Media, LLC is not responsible for any injury or harm resulting from the information or advice contained in this magazine. The articles in this issue of Purchase Family Magazine®, may not necessarily reflect the opinions of All Good Media, LLC. All subscription, editorial, and advertising inquiries should be directed to admin@ allgoodmedia.net or call 270.559.5840.

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iDoctor: The Cold Truth About Raynaud's Syndrome ........... 1 1 iSupport: Balloon Buddies Adopt-a-Grandparent Campaign ......................................................... 1 2 Read online! issuu.com/purchasefamilymag

iSupport: Gardening for Good - The Merryman House Community Garden Project .................................................................. 18 iCook: Soup's On ........................................................................................ 16 iDoctor: Doc, Why Does My Shoulder Hurt? ................................ 20 Advertiser's Index ........................................................................................ 22

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Rachel Marks

Interventional Radiologic Technologist at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale and former Mrs. Illinois America

presents Dance

Rylan Crouch is a brave young man. In November of 2017, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Burkitt’s Lymphoma, a type of rapid growth childhood cancer which has been known to literally double in size within 24 hours. A softball sized mass surrounded his heart; he had cancer within his bone marrow, and additional masses throughout his liver and colon. He was only 8 years old. “He immediately began treatment at Monroe Carrell Jr. Children’s Hospital, “explained Bethany, his Mom. “He went through six rounds of chemotherapy, each one lasting a week. With each round, Rylan became so sick with complications that he had to stay hospitalized for much longer than expected. In February 2018, we received the news we had hoped for - numerous PET scans and CT scans showed the tumors that covered his body were gone. Rylan was in

by Cassie Johnson

remission! He still had two maintenance cycles of chemo to finish, but his last treatment was in March. At the moment we have checkups every six months.” Today, Rylan is in sixth grade at Mayfield Middle School. Like any healthy 12-year-old boy, he has several hobbies he enjoys. He is a member of the Junior Beta Club as well as playing tight end and defensive end for the MMS football team. Next year he will be on the Mayfield High School golf team. He also enjoys fishing, playing Minecraft, and hunting. He proudly got his first buck this past November! Rylan is the only child dancer participating in Dancing for Gold. It’s especially important to him because he has lived through the scary realities of cancer. “The treatments were hard, but you can get through it if you trust in God,” Rylan told me. “I want to raise money to get better treatment for other kids to help make them feel better.”

Meet the Dancers

Eight dancers will showcase their dance skills in honor of a child who is either currently fighting cancer or who has previously been diagnosed with this debilitating disease. Dance Directors Ashley and Pam Thurman have choreographed and assisted them every two-step of the way. Their goal is to raise $10,000 each, and they really need your help!

1st Grade Teacher at Lyon County Elementary School

Bethany Crouch

Director of Nursing at Green Acres Health Care Inc.

Rylan Crouch

A student in Mayfield, Kentucky and a childhood cancer survivor

Amanda Waxman

Accounts payable and receivable at Western Rivers Boat Management

Principal of Ballard County Middle School

Amanda Farley

Guidance Counselor at Morgan Elementary School

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Amanda Farley is dancing in honor of a friend from church. Graham Reid, son of Jon and Jessica Reid, was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma when he was only two years old. Graham recently celebrated his 10th birthday! “I didn’t know the Reid’s when Graham was diagnosed or going through treatment,” said Farley. “I learned of his survivor status during a middle school girls Sunday school class from his sisters. When I was asked to participate in Dancing for Gold, I was unfamiliar with Book for Hope and completely unaware of the statistics surrounding childhood cancer. The fact that childhood cancer only receives about four percent of funding for research is frustrating it’s important to drum up support and educating others.”

How Book for Hope Helps Families

Amber Crice Parker

Livingston County Cheer Coach and hairstylist at Fringe Salon

for Gold Lindsey Bridges

eatured on our cover this month are Bethany Crouch and her son, Rylan. This handsome young man and his beautiful mother are participants in the first annual Dancing for Gold, presented by Book for Hope. Purchase Area Family Magazine is so pleased to be able to support this local nonprofit organization in kicking childhood cancer off the dance floor and eliminating this devastating disease. You are invited to the Paducah Convention Center on April 17 in support of Dancing for Gold. The event is raising money to benefit awareness and support research to find a cure for childhood cancer.

Stacy Williams

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Book for Hope, Inc. is a local, nonprofit, childhood cancer organization. Their mission is to raise childhood cancer awareness, financially support families in western Kentucky and southern Illinois that have a child going through cancer treatment, and donate to childhood cancer research. Gaylon Hayden, founder of Book for Hope and cancer survivor herself, is on a mission to help parents focus on their child, not their bills. Some facilities cover the medical costs of cancer diagnosis and treatment, and children’s hospitals across the country typically do not pursue unpaid bills incurred from pediatric cancer. Even if this burden doesn’t fall on the family’s affected, daily living expenses and household bills remain. Book for Hope helps families no matter where they seek treatment. “We are blessed to help parents be with their child,” said Hayden. “Parents shouldn’t have to worry about expenses when their child needs them and time together may be running out. One parent, usually the mom, will lose their job after 12 weeks of FMLA is exhausted.” Once a family completes an application filled out by a pediatric oncology social worker, Book for Hope goes to work. Each family receives an emergency envelope containing a $150 pre-loaded Visa card, a $50 restaurant card, and a $50 gas card – and that’s just the start. The following month, the family submits one bill to Book for Hope to pay for things such as housing or rent, utility bills, phone bills, auto insurance, vehicle payments and repairs. Book for Hope will continue to pay bills for the family as long as their child is going through cancer treatment, which can take up to three and a half years or longer.

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iGARDEN Let’s Beat Childhood Cancer!

Childhood cancer is the number one disease-related cause of death in children. Every day, 46 children in the USA receive a cancer diagnosis. Last year, there were over 16,000 newly diagnosed cases of childhood cancer in America and that number is rapidly growing. Sadly, one out of eight children will not survive. There is currently no cure for dozens of varieties of childhood cancer, which is the passion behind this event and what Book for Hope is striving to change. You can help make a change! Consider purchasing a table for your company, family, friends or buy seating for the event. Each seat includes a delicious meal and the amazing entertainment of the dancers. All local and state guidelines will be followed at the event, so please remember to wear your mask and practice social distancing. Tables will be six feet apart and your meal will be served to you. Each table seats eight guests and are priced by location. The front row of tables are $1500, the middle section $1000 , and those further back $750. A food and cash bar will be available for the event. Doors will open at 5pm and the event will run from 6pm to 9pm. Noah Bergen from WPSD and Mrs. Evie from WSIL will emcee the night.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://p2p.onecause.com/ dancingforgold. Click on Table and Seat Sales. If you would like to contribute but cannot attend the event, just click on Donate. Support your favorite dancer by clicking on their name and photo.

Seed Starting 101 by Cassie Johnson with contributions by Kathy Wimberley, Agent for Horticulture at the McCracken County Extension Service

All proceeds will go to help families that have a child undergoing cancer treatment in western Kentucky and southern Illinois. To learn more about Book for Hope and to read amazing testimonials from families, visit bookforhope.org.

Volunteers Make the Difference

All the dancers are volunteers and they, along with members of the Paducah Charity League, will be on hand to support the event. Book for Hope still needs additional help. If you would like to help decorate the week of the event or participate as a bank teller, contact Gaylon Hayden at 270.519.6536. Hayden wanted to leave us with one last thought and request. “Imagine if this was your child - what would you want people to do? Until childhood cancer is completely eradicated, we all have a role to play. Please be a participant with us in their fight.”

Book for Hope Childhood Cancer Organization bookforhope.org | 22 Barrington Circle | Paducah, KY 42003 | 270.519.6536

This article is paid advertising & the information contained therein is provided by the featured individual or business. They are solely responsible for its accuracy.

ardening is good for you! Not only is it a great form of exercise, but it’s also relaxing and gets you outside, into the natural world. Gardening has been proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and decrease depression. It’s a wonderful way to teach children about where their food comes from, good nutrition, science, responsibility and more – all while teaching them a sense of accomplishment.

Temperature

During the pandemic many people have worked in their gardens and yards – but not everyone found they have a green thumb. While some of us have experienced the satisfaction of pulling that perfect tomato from the vine, others watch their garden diligently and pray for one ripe zucchini!

Humidity

Not all plants are the same, so make sure to check the back of your seed packets for special instructions on temperatures and lighting. Germination varies on each plant, but most seeds germinate very well when grown within a 70-80° F range. If the temperature of your home is too cool, check your local gardening or farm stores for a heating cable or mat that is preset to 70-75° F.

It’s important to keep a constant moisture level and nearly 100% humidity for successful germination. Try a plastic covering rather than hand watering. A plastic covering provides high humidity and moisture levels, whereas hand watering produces low humidity and

Starting From Seeds

One way to plant a garden is starting seeds indoors and then transfer the plants outside when the time is right. There are steps and techniques to follow - it’s more than dropping seeds into a hole!

Step One

It’s best to start with a new seed, as some varieties are only viable for one year. You’ll need a sterile plant tray or container about two to three inches deep with holes in the bottom for drainage and water intake. Sow seeds in a plant tray containing a growing mix of peat moss and perlite. Packaged brands such as Pro-Mix, Sunshine Mix, Jiffy Mix, and others are convenient and contain the components your plants need to thrive. Plus, they are free from weeds, insects, and diseases. Slightly dampen the soil or potting mix and place it in the container within about a half inch from the rim. Seeds can be scattered across the surface or in rows. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of your soil.

Lighting

Contrary to belief, setting plants in a windowsill typically does not provide enough light. You will need to supplement with artificial light. Use cool white fluorescent lamps, a mixture of cool white and warm white fluorescent lamps, or a mixture of cool white and plant growth fluorescent lamps. Position the lamps 5-10 inches from the foliage and use them 12 to 18 hours per day. Be sure to keep seedlings cool enough (60° to 65°F) for strong, sturdy growth after they germinate. The two greatest challenges to starting seeds indoors in the spring are making sure that the lighting is ample and that the soil temperature is correct.

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can quickly dry out your soil. Once your seedlings have emerged, you can remove the plastic covering. Place the tray inside a plastic bag and seal it, but do not place the container in direct sunlight. The plastic will trap the heat and damage your seeds

transplants, and the entire root system should fit comfortably inside. Gently tug at the outer roots to loosen them before placing the plant into the hole. Use the soil from the hole you dug to fill in around the plant.

Watch for Disease or Fungus

Handle the transplants by holding onto a leaf rather than the stem. Plants can grow a new leaf, but not a stem. The plant should independently stand up straight once the hole is filled in and the roots are covered. Keep the plant-root ball at the same depth it was in the tray. The soil should be firmed around the plant, but not hard or packed. Best results are more likely when soil is kept evenly moist. The distance needed between your plants will depend on what you are planting.

Fungi and bacteria can kill seeds during germination. It’s very important to keep the soil, container, and tools sterile. Find seeds that have been pre-treated with a fungicide. These are typically a bright pink, purple, or green. Don’t plant the seeds deeper than necessary, keep a constant temperature, provide adequate ventilation, and avoid over-watering to help prevent complications and reduce chances of fungal growth. Once green leaves appear, allow as much moisture to dissipate as possible. Remember, your soil only needs to be slightly damp.

Test Your Soil

Good soil contains nutrients to produce healthy vegetables, stable root support, and provides good drainage. A soil test will determine which nutrients your soil is lacking and how much fertilizer to apply. The test should be done after you have worked, or loosened, the soil but before fertilizing. For a proper sample, dig down 8 to 12 inches. Your county extension agent can advise you on collecting a soil sample, mailing it in, and interpreting the results. Samples are brought to the Extension Office and sent via email or USPS. Many counties offer free soil testing. If your county does not, you can get a soil test through the University of Kentucky Regulatory Services with cost varying by county. The soil test also reveals the soil pH to show acid or alkaline soil. Neutral soil has a pH balance of 7. It’s absolutely necessary to have the correct pH range for the plants to be able to intake fertilizer. Most garden plants prefer a pH in the range of about 6.5. Soil testing will tell you if you need to add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it.

Transplant Time

Within a few weeks, your seedlings should be ready to move. Leaving seedlings in containers too long will result in overcrowding and poorquality transplants. A high-quality transplant will have roots that are well-developed in the soil. You can move seedlings to a larger container, raised bed, or ground garden. The best time to transplant is on a cool morning, cloudy day, or after the heat of the day has passed. Dig a hole using a small shovel, trowel, or your hand. The size of the hole will depend on the size of the

Avoiding Varmints

After taking so much time, preparation, and pride in your seeds, you don’t want to be disappointed (and angry) when a pesky critter literally destroys the fruits of your labor. Being proactive is key to controlling them by applying organic, concentrated, chemical-free repellents. “Moles, voles, and mice are the three main pests we see in our area. Each can cause individual problems, but having moles and voles together is a garden nightmare!” said Agronomist Seth Spacek, owner of Spacek Outdoor Services. “Treating the soil at the first sign of evidence should deter them and protect your garden.” Primarily, moles feed on earthworms and grub worms. Moles disrupt the root systems in both garden and flowering vegetation in their tunneling process. A void in the soil is left behind, and the plant will die. Voles feed on bulbs and root systems. This is detrimental on root crops such as onions, carrots, potatoes, beets, and radishes.

Earthworms are Friends!

Those crawling creatures are vital to soil health and basically act as your own private gardener. Earthworms naturally allow air and water to penetrate deeper, helping the plant establish a strong root system. “Choosing a product that will not harm the earthworms is imperative. Do your research, make sure what you plan to use will not destroy their ecosystem,” Spacek advises. You can find answers to your questions and additional information at your local farm or garden center, county extension office, or websites such as planeatmove.com. With the right guidance, you can produce a bountiful garden filled with your favorites.

iDOCTOR

by Cassie Johnson

The Cold Truth about Raynaud’s Syndrome

old hands and frigid feet are very common this time of year. Normally, putting on gloves or warm socks solves the problem. However, for 5 – 10% of Americans, (including myself and our Publisher Karen), it’s not that simple and certainly more than hypothermic hands or ice-cold toes. February is Raynaud’s Awareness Month, so let’s take a look at this freakishly freezing condition.

What is Raynaud’s?

Raynaud’s is an autoimmune disease where the blood vessels in your fingers and toes overreact to cold temperatures. This is exactly why I hate winter – it’s Raynaud’s season! When your body is cold, it naturally tries to conserve its own heat. Without us realizing it, our brain slows down blood flow to our hands and feet, which are the furthest points of the body. In order to do that, the arteries carrying blood to our extremities get smaller and narrower. By doing so, blood is kept closer to our core to help maintain heat. For Raynaud’s sufferers, the arteries shrink far more than normal. As a result fingers, fingernail beds, and toes can feel numb or even change color to white or blue. Imagine being in the checkout line and as you hand the cashier your Kroger card, you see her look in a wide-eyed horror at your hands. You glance down to see half of your fingers are paper white and your nail beds are a light blue! On top of that, your fingers are completely numb. I’m talking no feeling, smash them into the buggy and never know it NUMB. Insert the obligatory “It’s okay, I have an autoimmune disease. My hands won’t fall off!” here and remind yourself to paint your nails to camouflage their blue tint as soon as you put away the groceries.

severe and requires medication. While cold hands and feet are part of life for us, serious cases can cut off blood flow to your skin and lead to tissue damage. A blocked blood artery can lead to skin sores, swelling, or even dead tissue. These are more painful conditions that need to be discussed with your doctor. To treat Raynaud's there are only so many things you can do. Wear gloves or mittens, preferably mittens as your fingers produce heat being together inside. Individual pocket heat packs or ‘Hot Hands’ are very helpful. Whether they be fluffy, fuzzy, or furry, wear warm socks to keep your feet toasty. I have some battery heated socks and Karen wears skiing mittens when she goes out in the cold! If you think you have Raynaud’s, ask your primary care doctor if you need to see a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist specializes in many things including arthritis, inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune disorders that attack joints, muscles, bones, and organs. If you are a Raynaud’s sufferer, welcome to our club! Bundle up and remember that warmer spring temperatures will be here soon! Sources mayoclinic.org and webmd.com

How does Raynaud’s Start?

Raynaud’s is classified in two groups: Raynaud’s Disease or Primary Raynaud’s, and Raynaud’s phenomenon or Secondary Raynaud’s. In Raynaud’s Disease, there isn’t an underlying cause of why you have it. Raynaud’s phenomenon happens as a result of an underlying illness such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma which triggers Raynaud’s. Sometimes Raynaud’s effects only the hands or feet, not both. It’s very common to have it in both your hands and feet, and some may find it’s worse in one extremity or the other. Numbness is common, but so is icy pain. Even though my hands are always cold and visible symptoms show, Raynaud’s goes after my toes with vengeance! Just because our toes are hidden in the wintertime doesn’t mean those little piggies don’t need to be wrapped in a warm blanket. No matter how thick and warm my socks are, when the temps are below 35 degrees it feels like tacks are under my toes with nearly every step.

Bundle Up!

Like other autoimmune diseases, Raynaud’s is treatable but not curable. For most people it’s more of an annoyance and not a lifethreatening condition. However, for some patients, Raynaud’s is more

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iSUPPORT

Balloon Buddies Adopt-a-Grandparent Campaign by Cassie Johnson

“It’s a small way to thank them for their commitment and dedication through these difficult times of restriction,” Watkins shares. “As long as there is the need to deliver joy and hope, we will keep working to get these precious seniors adopted. So many of them haven’t seen their families or felt a hug from their loved ones for almost a year. We hope this small gesture brings smiles to their faces and lets them know they are not alone.” Melissa Vinson Watkins, owner of MelRhea Balloons in Paducah, heard about the loneliness affecting our seniors and decided to take action. Watkins is a balloon artist – one of many across the nation who have collaborated to deliver joy to senior citizens through the Adopt-aGrandparent campaign. Instead of flowers, stuffed animals, or goody bags the seniors receive a beautiful, colorful, and fun balloon buddy. Watkins began by contacting several local nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ask if they would be willing to accept Balloon Buddies for their residents. The answers were loud and clear - Yes! “I immediately started asking family, friends, and community members through social media to adopt these residents,” explained Watkins. The response was overwhelming.

ast year was tough for many people but it also brought forth many acts of kindness and compassion that will be remembered for years to come. Quarantine caused separation from family members during some of the most crucial times in their lives. Especially our senior citizens, many of whom suffered from terrible loneliness as visitors were not allowed in or out of the nursing and assisted living facilities. Sadly, no family hand to hold, no hug to be had.

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Watkins has already delivered over 260 Balloon Buddies to the Calvert City Convalescent Center, Stilley House Assisted Living, Oakview Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, and Lake Way Nursing & Rehabilitation in Marshall County. Each resident receives a smiling balloon arrangement with an encouraging poem to remind them they are cared for, thought of, and most importantly, loved! Watkins donates all delivery services and presents a Big Buddy to the staff of each facility.

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Watkins has a special inspiration to focus on adopting senior residents within Marshall County first. Bailey Holt, who lost her life in the Marshall County High School shooting, was Watkins’ cousin. “Bailey was a caring spirit and a gentle soul who showed kindness to everyone she met. Through this program, we hope to carry on her legacy of kindness. The Balloon Buddies all have purple shoes because that was Bailey’s favorite color.”

Adopt-a-Grandparent Campaign

A huge accomplishment was having all residents in the nursing and assisted living facilities in Marshall County adopted. Now Watkins has her sight set on seniors in McCracken County, where she lives and has operated her business for the past 20 years. With help from the community, Balloon Buddies has been a huge success, but there’s still room to grow. You can adopt a senior with your family, church group, circle of friends, or even as a class project. Think of the happiness you will bring to a resident when they are handed their own Balloon Buddy. For more information about the Adopt-a-Grandparent campaign, visit melrheaballoons.com/adopt. Check social media on Facebook and Instagram @melrheaballoons. You can also call 270.493.1197 or email Melissa Vinson Watkins at melrheaballoons@gmail.com.

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iSUPPORT

Gardening for Good

The Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center

The Center is committed to improving the lives of those affected by domestic violence – men, women and children. They are the only certified domestic violence program in the Purchase Area Development District which serves Ballard, Calloway, Carlisle, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Marshall, and McCracken Counties.

The Merryman House Community Garden Project

Their mission, purpose, and passion is to answer the calls for help, by assisting victims to find refuge from the risk of death and serious physical injury, provide food and shelter, support them in court, and help them become financially stable and visibly strong. The Merryman House is a community-based system of support and encouragement. They meet the comprehensive advocacy and recovery needs required by survivors to recover and live successful lives.

by Cassie Johnson

he Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center in Paducah is ready to dig into their third annual community garden project. Their garden was started by Paducah’s El Arbol Garden Club in 2019 and has become an annual program. Jim Gould, Garden Manager for the Merryman House, has been active all winter growing cool weather crops and preparing for the 2021 summer season. Gould is passionate about the garden and he believes it can accomplish many things – not just for the Merryman house clients, but for our community. “Firstly, we want to provide food for the kitchen at the Merryman House,” Gould explained. “Secondly, I want to provide a source of outdoor activity and education for clients. Lastly, I want to provide a community resource which educates clients, kids, and parents on gardening. Gardening isn’t difficult, and like any other project, if you have the tools and knowledge it’s not only fun but also has a purpose. Nothing is as satisfying as watching a patch of seeds become edible produce!”

Products can be purchased through the Merryman House with 100% of the proceeds donated back to the organization.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence and need help, please call 270.443.6001. For more information, visit merrymanhouse.org.

Would You Like to be a Volunteer Gardener?

An essential part of the Merryman House garden are its volunteers. In 2020, volunteers provided around 900 hours of work, averaging about 25 weekly hours. Organizations such as the Boy Scouts, Master Gardeners, church groups, and individuals rolled up their sleeves and worked alongside Merryman House residents to help make the community garden a success. The garden is looking for volunteers again this year beginning in late April. Volunteers will learn basic garden skills including soil preparation, irrigation management, seed and plant starting, trellising, disease recognition, harvesting, post-harvest storage, and post-season garden clean-up. The goal is for each person to walk away from the project knowing how to adequately maintain a garden from start to finish.

“Because of pandemic related work restrictions last year, I had an abundance of great help,” said Gould. “As people went back to work or other activities, a team of local gardeners continued to manage the cutting flowers while I maintained the vegetables. We enjoyed getting together.” Anyone who helps and volunteers in the garden this year will learn the details of each type of gardening. Hopefully, people can take their new skills home for use in 2022. Volunteers are asked to commit to approximately three hours per week for 12 weeks. (That equates to about one or two days a week from about 7 -10am.) Gould says that volunteering is not as much about the help as it is about the education.

Support the Merryman House Garden CSA

From spring through summer, the garden grows all the usual summer vegetables including tomatoes, squash varieties, and eggplant. Last year, the vegetables were complemented by two rows of cutting flowers. The vegetables and ornamental flowers were not only used at Merryman House, but also sold locally and through an on-site CSA (community supported agriculture) program. Any unsold produce was donated.

“The key to successful garden management is to watch the project and to participate from start to finish,” he said. “You would be amazed by how much knowledge you take away and because of their prior participation, many volunteers could now manage the garden without my help. A lot of community gardens start well, but then fail mid-season due to lack of attention. Ours produces well because of dedication. Our volunteers are committed to helping and learning each week.”

This year the garden is already producing lettuce, radishes, beets, and arugula. There are plans to add raised beds, square foot gardening, potato containers, and straw bale growing. For the 2021 summer season, the garden will have a variety of vegetables, fresh flower bouquets, and herbs. Individuals can enroll in the CSA to receive a weekly selection of fresh, in-season veggies, herbs, and flowers.

The Merryman House is thankful for their buying partners and volunteers. More are needed this year! Ages 14 years and older are welcome to participate. In order to assure appropriate time with volunteers, the number of participants will be limited. No experience is required. Find out how you can help by contacting Kayla Myers, Volunteer Coordinator for the Merryman House at 270.443.6001.

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iCOOK

Soup's On by Britt Allgood

Beer Cheese Soup

Courtesy of Joe at the Cookeville Country Club circa 1988

t’s my sincere hope that by the time you read this that the weather has improved, but right now it’s literally snowing sideways outside my window. February has arrived in a truly chilling winter fashion. All I want to do is curl up under a blanket with a good book and some hearty comfort food. You know what I mean, right? That special food that warms you from your head to your toes. Food that brings back happy memories and makes a cold and snowy day a bit less annoying. Some of my favorite comfort foods in the winter are soups and warm bread. Soups can be as complex or as simple as you want to make them. It’s all in what you like and the varieties are nearly limitless. I’ve have

cookbooks entirely for soup and they weren’t small either. Broccoli & cheese, carrot & ginger, split pea, potato & leek, tomato, vegetable beef or pumpkin are just a few of the soups regularly made in my kitchen. Some soups are great on their own, but others need the appropriate side. What’s a big bowl of tomato soup without a grilled cheese? Just a bowl of soup - but that grilled cheese brings back happy childhood memories. I’ve been known to trade recipes and one that I had to barter for was beer cheese. It’s a great soup with a smoked turkey sandwich on some sourdough or rye bread. You can even use it as a dip for soft pretzels if you like. I think my old coworker Jo (short for Josephine) and I made a great swap. I got the soup and she got a delicious chocolate chip pie recipe which happens to be another comfort food. My comfort foods are generally tied to good memories. I’m going to share a few of my favorite soup recipes with you and I hope you make some good comfort food memories of your own. Live, Love, Laugh and Eat Well.

r Safety Note fo : quids blending hot li

uid , remove the liq Before blending at ol d allow it to co from the heat an to a . Transfer liquid least 5 minutes fill it no processor and blender or food ender, bl a full. If using more than half event pr er of the lid to release one corn at he t that creates a vacuum effec e e a towel over th explosions. Plac d then a few times, an machine, pulse ooth. sm l speed unti process on high

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3 cups whole milk One 12oz can or bottle of beer (I prefer Guinness or Beck’s Dark) 20oz Velveeta cheese spread (regular cheese gets really oily and can separate) 6oz chicken broth ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 ½ dashes hot sauce like McIlhenny’s 1/8 cup and 1 TBSP cornstarch Combine the milk and 1 ¼ cup beer in a large pot. Cook over low heat until heated thoroughly stirring constantly. Add cheese spread, chicken broth, hot and Worcestershire sauces. Simmer over low heat. Combine the cornstarch with the remaining beer and mix well. Add cornstarch mixture to the pot, stirring constantly and simmer until thickened. Do not boil. Makes about 2 quarts of soup. Double boils should be used to avoid burning the soup. If you want to make this as a dip, increase the cornstarch by 1/2 teaspoon increments until you get the desired thickness. Remember to always dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of liquid before adding to the pot to avoid lumps.

Butternut Squash and Parsnip Soup with Thyme Serves 6 3 TBSP butter

1 Two-pound butternut squash, unpeeled and halved lengthwise, seeded and cut into eight pieces 1 pound of Parsnips, peeled and cut crosswise into 2 inch pieces with the thick ends cut in half ¼ cup water 1 onion halved and thinly sliced 2 tsp minced fresh thyme or ¾ tsp dried 4 cups chicken broth 1 cup half and half cream Preheat the oven to 375° F. Butter a large roasting pan with 1 TBSP of butter. Arrange squash pieces, skin side up, in the prepared pan. Add the parsnips and the water to the pan. Cover with foil and bake in the oven about 50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Allow them to cool.

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As the vegetables are cooling, melt the remaining 2 TBSP of butter in a large skillet or stock pot over medium heat. Add the onion and thyme and sauté until golden, about 10 minutes. If you don’t have an immersion mixer, scrap the roasted squash off the peel and add it, the parsnips and onion mixture to a food processor or blender. Puree it until smooth and place it back into a stock pot. Add the stock and cream and mix until smooth with a whisk. If you have an immersion mixer, you can add the roasted squash (without the peel) and the other ingredients directly into the pot you used to sauté the onions as well as about 2 cups of the chicken broth. Blend until smooth then add the remaining broth and cream and blend again. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot. This soup will keep a few days in the refrigerator in a closed container. I would pair it with a savory sandwich or possibly a green salad for a light and delicious lunch.

Broccoli Soup Serves 4

4 TBSP butter 1½ pounds fresh broccoli 1 large onion, chopped 1 carrot, peeled and chopped Salt and fresh ground black pepper 3 TBSP all-purpose flour 4 cups chicken stock ½ cup heavy cream Melt the butter in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli, onion, carrot, salt and pepper and sauté until the onions are translucent; about 6 minutes. Add the flour and cook for a minute or until the flour reaches a blonde color. Add the stock and bring to a boil. Simmer uncovered until broccoli is tender; about 15 minutes. Pour in the cream and puree the soup using an immersion mixer. If you don’t have an immersion mixer you can use a blender or food processor but please see the side bar about safety when blending hot soups. Salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2021

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iDOCTOR

Doc, Why Does My Shoulder Hurt? by Dr. Spencer E. Romine Orthopaedic Institute of Western Kentucky

ne of the most common complaints in an orthopaedic office is shoulder pain. It can begin suddenly or be a nagging pain that just doesn’t seem to go away. Let’s review and discuss the common reasons for shoulder pain and the treatment that can be used. The most important question can often determine the reason for your shoulder pain - “how did it start?” (Was there a specific event that occurred, such as a fall? Did it just begin one day when you got out of bed? Do you perform repetitive activities in your job or sport?) When you consider the answer to this question along with your age and the reason of your pain, is often narrowed to several common causes.

Rotator Cuff

A traumatic injury often results in a rotator cuff tear (tendons attached to the side of the shoulder) and causes pain with reaching away from the body, pain at night while trying to sleep, and weakness. It is a common scenario no matter the age of the patient. A younger person, less than 50-60 years old, often needs an “ah-hah” moment (fall from height, weight lifting injury, etc.,) to sustain a rotator cuff tear. However, as we age a traumatic injury is not required to sustain a tear. Some research has suggested that 70% of people older than 70 years old have degree of a rotator cuff tear as the tendon degenerates with age.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2021

Bursitis & Tendinitis

Common causes of shoulder pain in a younger patient include bursitis and tendinitis. A young overhead athlete or weightlifter will often tear the labrum (liner that surrounds the socket). Fortunately, a younger person with these problems often do not need surgery, but rather, a non-inflammatory medication (NSAID, cortisone injection) and possibly physical therapy.

Stretch It Out!

One of the most important treatments that everyone can do is stretch to prevent a frozen shoulder. A shoulder that is inflamed and hurts to move will develop stiffness if not treated with dedicated stretching. A sling is never the answer unless your visit to your local emergency finds you have a broken a bone during your fall. So, here’s a quick review…You fall off your ladder trying to take down Christmas lights, land on your shoulder, can’t sleep at night, you can’t raise your arm very well, and the pain hasn’t improved with Mortin and icing. Please, don’t put on a sling, please make an appointment to see me!

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Advertiser Index Abell Family Dentistry ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3 abelldental.com Book for Hope Childhood Cancer Organization .................................................................................................................. 1 bookforhope.org Blewett Music Studio & Piano Tuning .................................................................................................................................. 15 blewettmusicstudio.com Flanary Vet ................................................................................................................................................................................ 11, 16 flanaryvet.com Immanuel Baptist Preschool ................................................................................................................................................. 4 ibcpaducah.org/Preschool Matt Hernandez Creative ........................................................................................................................................................ 19 matthernandezcreative.com Orthopaedic Institute of Western Kentucky ............................................................................................................. 23 orthopaedicinstitute.com/kentucky Paducah Head Start Preschool ................................................................................................................................................. 18 paducah.kyschools.us/HeadStart.aspx Paducah Parks & Recreation ................................................................................................................................................. 21 paducahky.gov/parks-recreation-department Parkview Nursing & Rehabilitation Center ........................................................................................................................... 13 parkviewnursingandrehabilitationcenter.com Quick Care/Four Rivers Internal Medicine ................................................................................................................................. 2 quickcarepaducah.com Rover Done Over Grooming ........................................................................................................................................................ 9 roverdoneover.business.site Spacek Outdoor Services ............................................................................................................................................................. 10 spacekoutdoorservices.com Symphony Supply ....................................................................................................................................................................... 17 symphonysupply.com Tri Rivers Healthcare & Smithland Clinic ................................................................................................................................ 24 tririvershc.com 22

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DECEMBER 2020 - JANUARY 2021

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