Lauren and Cory Maynard celebrated a unique milestone to ring in the new year, welcoming their third child, Levi, on January 1. As the first baby born in Owensboro in 2025, Levi is also the first local baby of a new generational era called “Generation Beta.”
Maynard, a nurse at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital who lives in Utica with her family, described the experience as a heartwarming homecoming. She especially enjoyed having her co-workers there to help her and the family celebrate the newborn and ring in the new year.
“It’s like my family,” Maynard said. “They’re great anyways, but when they’re this close, it’s even better.”
Levi joins siblings Ellie, 7, and Walker, 3, in the Maynard household. Ellie expressed her excitement about her new role as a big sister again, saying, “It feels nice. I’m looking forward to helping give him baths and playing with him.”
This birth also marked a significant milestone for Maynard, who previously had her two older children in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
“This is the first time I’ve ever had a baby with me right after birth,” she said. “It’s been amazing to experience this side of care.”
She said the Owensboro Health staff went the extra mile to celebrate the occasion, decorating Maynard’s room with festive touches and providing goodie baskets for both mom and baby, courtesy of the hospital’s gift shop. Mindy Jones, the manager of nursing for the mother-baby unit, was especially thrilled to play a part in the memorable event.
“I worked in labor when Lauren had her last little boy, and now I’m her boss,” Jones said. “It’s been really special to see everything come full circle and to be part of this moment.”
The year 2025 also brings with it the naming of a new generation. Following Generation Alpha, Generation Beta represents children born from 2025 onward. Sociologists believe these generational labels provide a framework for studying cultural and technological shifts. Generation Beta, for instance, is expected to grow up in a world already saturated with advanced technology and artificial intelligence.
For the Maynards, however, the focus remains on their newest family member.
“We’re just excited to get him home safely, recover, and rest,” Maynard said. “Levi is the best Christmas gift we could have asked for.”
