YMCA of Northwest North Carolina A Community Dedicated to Wellness JANUARY 2024
New Year, New You!
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Happy New Year!!!
Nothing beats the fresh start of a new year. It’s always an exciting time. As a health and wellness enthusiast, I also love that this time of year gets people re-energized to get healthy. If you’ve been an active gym enthusiast for years, I want to remind you to be kind and welcoming to anyone new you see this month. Your kindness (or lack thereof) has a huge impact! Appropriately, this month we are featuring the YMCA of Northwest NC on the cover! They are a community dedicated to wellness and have everything from hot yoga to pickleball. You can read all about the Y beginning on page 24. Our health and wellness content in this issue doesn’t stop there! Be sure to check out the following pages:
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jodie Brim Creative • JEJ Photos Photo Artistry by Melinda Sail Off Photography *others credited throughout accordingly CONTENT EDITOR Meghan Corbett SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Martie Emory • Carolyn Peterson OTHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kelsey Camarena • Karen Cooper Damian Desmond • Amy Hill Brian Jared • Taryn Jerez Keith O’Neill • Lauren Sephton Renee Skudra • Megan Taylor Keith Tilley • Susan Woodall *others credited throughout accordingly GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION Stefanie Lyons
- Fleet Feet Sports, page 14 - Washington Park CrossFit: A Fitness Community Where Families Thrive Together, page 18 - Rise to the Occasion at RISE indoor sports, page 44 If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to our email newsletter! You’ll receive sneak peeks of every issue as well as event updates and reminders. Head to forsythfamilymagazine.com and simply type in your email address! Give us a follow on social media (@forsythmags) and tune into the Forsyth Magazines podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or any major streaming platform. We release a new episode every week featuring small business owners, nonprofits, local events and so much more! Wishing you an amazing start to 2024! All my best,
Brooke
Tickets are officially on sale for our 3rd Annual Women on the Move Conference! Scan the QR code to learn more about this year’s event and snag your ticket before they are gone!
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COVER PHOTOGRAPHY JEJ Photos
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FORSYTH FAMILY DISCLAIMER Please note that the inclusion of stories and articles in Forsyth Family magazine does not imply endorsement of products or people. The views of the authors are presented for information and entertainment only, and may not necessarily reflect the views of Forsyth Family. Specifically, Forsyth Family in no way endorses any claim associated with health and/or well being with respect to any particular person. We disclaim all warranties, express or implied,including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. We will not be held responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any loss or damage that is caused or alleged to have been caused in connection with the use of, or reliance on, any content in this magazine. Forsyth Family reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Forsyth Family standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Forsyth Family assumes no responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. ©2007 by Forsyth Family Magazine, Inc.
SUN DAMAGE
is History
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features 10 The Bullying Solution: Healthy Self-Esteem
16 Unleash Your Power at the 3rd Annual Women on the Move Conference
20 For the Love of BBQ:
Smoked Beef Tenderloin
24 COVER STORY YMCA of Northwest
38 5 Ways Conflict Can Lead to Change 40 Quick and Easy Lunchbox Ideas for All Ages
48 Child Safety Series:
Winter Weather Safety
62 The Artist’s Corner
North Carolina: A Community Dedicated to Wellness
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18
22
Every Issue For the Love of BBQ Reflections of a Southern Yankee The Fancy Fork The View from My Section: A Father’s Perspective Dining Guide Triad Moms on Main It’s a Grand Life
25
32
20 34 42 50 56 58 60
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JANUARY ‘24 JANUARY 2024 / 9
T H E B U L LY I N G S OLU T ION : H E A LT H Y S E L F - E S T E E M b y K E I T H O ’ N E I L L , P H . D . , C . H T. Today, everyone is obsessed with bullies. Wherever you turn, someone is talking about bullying, and rightly so. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, two hundred and eighty-two thousand students are physically attacked in secondary schools each month, a child is bullied every seven minutes on a playground, an adult intervenes only four percent of the time, and peers only eleven percent. Eightyfive percent of bullying on playgrounds goes ignored. In order to stop this burgeoning social dilemma, we must first understand the mechanisms that create such disturbing behavior. Why do bullies bully? Feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, lack of confidence, and I could mention numerous other traits, but basically, it’s low self-esteem. Bullies have little or no self-esteem and they prey on the kids who also exhibit low self-esteem. Poor self-esteem is not just the cause of bullying, it is the cause of being bullied, as well. Aye, there’s the rub. Most parents I talk with believe that bullies are the sole cause of bullying and that is not the case. This is why looking to authority figures for the cure isn’t working and parents are growing increasingly frustrated, anxious and angry. Therefore, we need to rethink the concept that bullying, in and of itself, is the problem, because the core issue behind bullying isn’t bullying, it is the lack of self-esteem in our culture. While the hue and cry is to stop the bullies, the solution to stopping bullying must also involve the children who allow themselves to be bullied. The deeper issue behind bullying is the deterioration of a sense of self-worth, in our youth. That is the problem, it has become all pervasive and no one can do anything about it except us, the parents, caregivers and teachers. Poor self-esteem in children has reached epidemic proportions and some saw it coming. The results of a study published in Aggressive Behavior, in July 2001 indicated that “high selfesteem protects children and adolescents from involvement in bullying. Thus, it is recommended that top priority be given by parents and teachers to preventing and reducing feelings of poor self-worth among children and adolescents.” That was true then, and it is true today. When a child has good self-esteem, the bullies can’t get to them mentally, they won’t allow it. The need for a child in today’s society to develop high selfesteem early on in life, has become self-evident. Of course, the importance of helping children develop healthy self esteem when they are very young has always been important. Today,
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it is critical. Helping children develop healthy self-esteem is an important job and is the greatest gift a parent can give, because it will truly last a lifetime. I cannot emphasize this enough, because bullying isn’t the only distressing result of sending children, who don’t love themselves, into hostile, aggressive arenas, nor is it the most pernicious. According to the American Psychological Society, “Low selfesteem during adolescence predicts poor health, criminal behavior, and limited economic prospects during adulthood.” Children with poor self-esteem are more likely to become depressed. One of the saddest statistics that I have ever come across was issued by the Centers for Disease control - suicide is the third leading cause of death, behind accidents and homicide, of people aged fifteen to twenty-four. Even more disturbing, is the fact that suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in children between the ages of ten and fourteen. It’s an indisputable fact that how children will feel about themselves, for the rest of their lives, depends on how their parents interact with them, when they are very young. Between birth and kindergarten, a child’s mind is like a sponge, it absorbs everything. During this critical period of development, a child’s mind is also very literal, it believes everything it hears. Before children reach the age of five, the majority of their self-image has been formed. It is during this developmental phase that their core, inner feelings about themselves are developed. These ingrained feelings will manifest themselves externally as adults, in the choices they will make, throughout their lives. Adult therapy, in essence, is the reprogramming of the insecure child inside us. Helping children develop healthy self-esteem cannot begin too early and it must be done by the parents, in the home environment. Punishing bullies won’t stop bullying, and will not quell their desire for attention, which undesirable behavior gets them a lot of attention. Raising your own children’s self-esteem will minimize the effects bullying can have on their young minds. When children have high self-esteem, then bullying, jealousy and prejudice is minimized and prepares them for the trials and tribulation that life brings to everyone.
UNLEASH YOUR POWER AT THE 3RD ANNUAL WOMEN ON THE MOVE CONFERENCE PRESENTED BY SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF NWNC Forsyth Woman Magazine proudly announces the return of the highly anticipated 3rd Annual Women on the Move Leadership Conference on Monday, March 25th, 2024, at the stunning WinMock at Kinderton! This year, we are thrilled to introduce the empowering theme, “Discov-Her,” inviting attendees to embark on a journey of self-discovery and unlock their full potential. Elevating Dreams into Achievements through Women’s Support The Women on the Move Leadership Conference is not just an event; it’s a movement that believes in transforming dreams into opportunities and opportunities into accomplishments. We emphasize the power of women supporting women, creating a positive and uplifting community. A Day Packed with Impactful Presentations, Networking, Shopping, and More! From 9 am to 5 pm, immerse yourself in a day filled with transformative experiences. Our agenda includes: Inspiring Presentations: Hear from local leading ladies, including business leaders, owners, and entrepreneurs, sharing insights to fuel your personal and professional growth. Presentation
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topics this year include overcoming imposter syndrome, elevating your voice and visibility for success and leading with confidence. NEW THIS YEAR! Panel Discussion: We’re introducing an exciting panel discussion featuring four well-known women from our community. They will answer anything and everything you want to know. Attendees can submit questions in advance and pose live questions during the panel, fostering an interactive and informative session. Dynamic Emcee: For the third consecutive year, we’re excited to welcome back the fabulous Kristin Johnson as our emcee. Known for her unmatched energy, Kristin will infuse the day with enthusiasm, keeping the atmosphere electric and engaging. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded women, forge new alliances, and build a network that lasts beyond the event. Shopping Extravaganza: Explore a curated selection of local vendors offering unique products and services – a perfect blend of business and pleasure. Gourmet Food and Refreshments: Enjoy a delicious lunch, snacks, and coffee throughout the day, ensuring you stay energized and engaged.
Limited Tickets: Tickets are priced at $99 each, inclusive of all-day access, meals, and exclusive experiences. Be sure to secure your spot early, as tickets sell out every year. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this empowering day! What Past Attendees Are Saying: “The beauty of the event is a barn full of women ready to lift each other up. The positivity is palpable, and you’ve harnessed something really special that feels like the perfect extension of your brand. Bravo!!” “Loved the presentations from local leaders and enjoyed meeting new people and connecting! A fabulous event!” “It was a spectacular event! I appreciated all the intention and care taken in each and every detail down to the empowering decals on the bathroom mirrors. Thank you for putting this together for us all to share.” Join us for an unforgettable day of empowerment, connection, and inspiration at the 3rd Annual Women on the Move Conference – where your journey to self-discovery begins! Register now at tinyurl.com/womc2024
photography by M E G A N B L A C K P H O T O G R A P H Y
INSPIRING PRESENTATIONS NETWORKING SHOPPING GOURMET FOOD + MORE!
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Erin Key
The Art of Balancing it All The concept of having it all has many different meanings. While most think of it as having a rewarding career while also managing a growing family flawlessly without any help, it is a lofty goal that is unachievable for the vast majority of people. However, Erin Key of Fleet Feet knows how it feels to have it all and has worked very hard to achieve her goals! When Erin Key moved from Alleghany County to WinstonSalem, she didn’t know what exactly she would do for work; she was transitioning from managing a summer camp to needing to find a new role. A long-time mentor of hers recommended she go find what she loves to do and do that. Erin was a marathon runner, so she knocked on the door of Fleet Feet. “At the time, I did not intend for it to be a full-time job; but, I hit it off with the rest of the staff and enjoyed being there,” said Erin. “So, I transitioned to full time. At first, it felt like a step backward from a financial and career standpoint. I quickly realized that it was a choice for a different lifestyle. I didn’t know where it was going to take me. I didn’t have any business or retail experience, but I loved running.” Over the next nine years, Erin worked her way up from being a full-time outfitter to being the general manager of Fleet Feet Winston-Salem and Fleet Feet Clemmons. Erin, mom to two young daughters (Stella, 6 and Rowan, 2), has figured out how to manage a busy mom-life
and busy work life. Her husband, Adam, a Winston-Salem firefighter, has an ever-changing schedule that requires they readjust their combined schedules every week. “We couldn’t do it without family help,” said Erin. “I try my best to balance my days off with his days at the department. Every week is completely different. We both have careers that we love, and I want to have something outside of my home that challenges me and helps me grow personally. I feel like I’m setting an example for my daughters, so they see that they can have a family and can also be independent and have careers. Adam is just as good of a father as I am of a mother. We are equals when it comes to parenting and kid management.” Erin says she most enjoys working with young staff at Fleet Feet and mentoring them. The pace of a busy retail store keeps her engaged and excited to come to work. “If every day was predictable and required sitting at a desk, I would get bored,” she said. “It’s always something different – mentoring staff, training staff, events – all of that is part of my job and that makes it fun.”
Adam really being a dad and not just the ‘babysitter’ and knowing that I can go to work, and they are getting what they need from an invested parent.” The support she receives allows Erin to go for her goals and to pursue new ones. Working at Fleet Feet has taught her that there is a way to have it all with a lot of hard work and determination. “I’ve learned as part of my career growth at Fleet Feet that, when I am going to tackle something, I am going to do it the best way I can,” said Erin. “I am always looking for what more can be done to improve and expand on something. If we are not constantly trying to move forward, then you’re moving backward. Sometimes it’s in the big things and sometimes it’s just perfecting the details.”
Erin recognizes the challenge of being a stay-at-home mom vs. the equally tough challenge of being a working mom. “My advice to young women – you really must look at your partner. The world is different than when I was young, and my mom stayed home. Traditional parenting roles no longer exist. It’s great to see
JANUARY 2024 / 15
NOVANT HEALTH
Orthopedics & Sports Medicine by MARTIE EMORY
When an orthopedic condition or sports injury flares up with excruciating pain, or begins to limit your mobility, care that’s close to home is absolutely essential. Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine offers cuttingedge, personalized care to patients of all ages – and all athletic ability levels! You’ll know you’re in good hands with the most advanced orthopedic technology and a team of providers that professional athletes in the area also rely on! Composed of board-certified orthopedic surgeons and highly skilled sports medicine specialists, the Novant Health clinics offer advanced, minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical procedures, and many of those also require very minimal downtime. Complicated procedures such as hip or knee replacements can often be completed without an overnight hospital stay. The team is committed to fully understanding your particular issue and putting together a care plan to fit those needs. Matthew Spivey, MD, is the newest sports medicine surgeon to join the group and welcomes patients at both the Clemmons and King clinics. Dr. Spivey attended medical school at Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, completed an Internship
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The Best Care Close to Home
in general surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University and his residency in orthopaedic surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University. He also completed a fellowship in orthopaedic sports medicine with the University of North Carolina Hospitals in 2023. Providing patients with easy access to comprehensive care is Dr. Spivey’s main goal. “When I meet patients, I want to listen to them and understand what they are experiencing,” he explains. “From there, we work together to consider options for treatment and management. I always hope my patients leave our clinic with new knowledge and a better understanding of their problems. I want them to be empowered to participate in making decisions about their care.” His inspiration is seeing patients regain function and get back to doing the things in life they love. “That can include sports and fitness, their jobs, hobbies or even simple day-to-day activities,” he adds. “It’s always inspiring to recognize and celebrate progress toward reaching those goals together.” Mark Schweppe, MD, is another sports medicine surgeon who practices out of the Winston-Salem clinic. Dr. Schweppe attended medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina, completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and a fellowship in ortho sports shoulder reconstruction at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic of the Carolinas. Dr. Schweppe feels offering same-day access for patients with urgent orthopedic needs is what sets Novant Health apart. “Our OrthoNow Clinic is a great resource for patients with acute
injuries,” he explains. “We frequently see patients in this clinic following sports-related injuries in athletes of all ages. It provides an efficient way to get a diagnosis and begin the treatment plan with little delay. There is nothing more satisfying than helping patients overcome an injury.” Dr. Schweppe enjoys working with patients of all ages – and abilities – to help them return to their desired activities. His practice focuses primarily on sports-related injuries to the shoulder and knee, as well as on the treatment of shoulder arthritis. Even after your treatment at Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, the clinic’s physical therapy and rehabilitation services will ensure you stay on the right path towards healing. You’ll also find that Novant Health offers orthopedic and sports medicine care in 13 additional locations across the Triad including Clemmons, Greensboro, High Point, Kernersville, King, Lexington and Thomasville. No matter where you live, your family has easy access to the best orthopedic and sports medicine care. Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is located at 200 Robinhood Medical Plaza in Winston-Salem, 336.718.7950, and in Clemmons at 7210 Village Medical Circle, Suite 110, 336.893.2400. Visit novanthealth.org for more information on their providers and services. WinstonSalem office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m.7:00 p.m., and all other clinics are open 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. JANUARY 2024 / 17
STRENGTHENING FAMILY BONDS AT WASHINGTON PARK CROSSFIT
by MEAGAN JOHNSON
Washington Park CrossFit, situated at 2020 Hollyrood Street in Winston-Salem, NC, has become a hub for families seeking not just fitness but also a strong sense of community. Opened in October 2022, Washington Park CrossFit offers a unique fitness experience for all ages and skill levels. Co-owner Scott Tyler emphasizes the gym’s mission: “We love watching people build confidence in the gym and take that confidence outside of the gym.” The coaching staff ensures a welcoming environment, meeting individuals where they are in their fitness journey and pushing them to improve their health and fitness. With hour-long classes running from 6 am to 6:30 pm every weekday, the gym prioritizes individualized coaching with class sizes capped at 12. The result is not just a place to work out but a community that supports each other’s goals. Regular social events, from Christmas parties to post-workout gatherings at local spots like Young Cardinal and Southside Beer Garden, create opportunities for families to connect beyond the gym. Co-owner Brooke Eagle notes, “We love spending time with our community just as much as we love fitness.” Members like Johan C. praise the gym for its excellent trainers, quality equipment and welcoming atmosphere, creating a space that feels like a home away from home.
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A FITNESS COMMUNITY WHERE FAMILIES THRIVE TOGETHER
If you’re looking for a fitness community where families thrive together, Washington Park CrossFit invites you to join them. Take advantage of the one-week free trial and experience the strength of family bonds within a supportive fitness community. Follow Washington Park CrossFit on Instagram @washingtonparkcrossfit, and visit washingtonparkcrossfit.com to sign up for your free trial.
ONE WEEK FREE TRIAL
A COMMUNITY OF LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE AIMING TO IMPROVE THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH CONSTANTLY VARIED FUNCTIONAL FITNESS.
CROSSFIT
OLYMPIC WEIGHTLIFTING
PHYSICAL THERAPY
NUTRITION
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
WASHINGTONPARKCROSSFIT.COM | 2020 HOLLYROOD ST WINSTON-SALEM @WASHINGTONPARKCROSSFIT
For the LOVE of
Smoked Beef Tenderloin Looking for a delicious entrée that is sure to please your guests or family? This beef tenderloin is amazing! Prep Time: 24 hours | Cook Time: 2-3 hours Yields: 15-20 servings Ingredients: 1 Whole beef tenderloin 2tsp Beef rub 2T Coarse black pepper 1 Bottle of beef marinade Start out by marinating a tenderloin for 24 hours. There are plenty of options, but I used Allegro Hickory smoke which can be found at any local grocery store. After 24 hours in the marinade, pull it out and season with your favorite beef rub. I mixed Fire and Smoke Society Thundering Longhorn and Lillies Q Brisket Pepper. Set your smoker to 250 degrees, and put your tenderloin on the grill. Smoke until an internal temperature of 125 degrees. This will take a couple hours. If you have a griddle, the best thing to do is turn it on high and sear each side until you get an internal temperature of 130 degrees. After you get to 130 degrees, bring it inside and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute into the meat. Slice and serve into perfection.
by BRIAN JARED Instagram handle @Winstonsalem_nc_bbq
Pit Master Tip: Temperatures vary on different smokers, so cook time could be more or less depending on set up. Also, not everyone likes medium rare beef, so this can vary to your liking on how you cook it. Use your favorite marinade. I like the hickory smoke for the flavor. Both seasonings I used can be found at your local Food Lion or Publix grocery stores.
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Imprints Cares Summer Enrichment Camps by KELSEY CAMARENA Calling all campers, summer is just around the corner! As one of the largest summer camp providers in Forsyth County, Imprints Cares offers several summer enrichment camps for families with students ages pre-K through rising 6th grade. Our program offers the opportunity for your student to engage in activities that encourage imagination, critical thinking and problem solving. Our curriculum allows them to thrive in a safe and encouraging environment and is designed to immerse students in new activities and experiences, which create opportunities for them to build friendships as well as social and emotional skills. Our goal is to provide students with memorable experiences that promote teamwork and encourage creative play. Your student will be nurtured and encouraged by highly qualified teachers and staff who undergo extensive training and implement an interactive, themebased curriculum. Each uniquely themed week features 2-3 field trips, which are integral parts of the Expanded Learning Summer Enrichment Camp experience. For the second year, we are excited to expand our summer enrichment camp program for rising kindergarten students, Footprints to Kindergarten Camp! This nurturing and developmentally
appropriate camp is specifically designed to help prepare rising kindergartners to be ready for school. Campers will have their own space within a classroom setting that will offer activities including circle time, developmental play, arts and crafts that pertain to the weekly themes, outside fun, story time, social and emotional learning activities, and more. As we work on promoting their kindergarten readiness skills, campers will also work on self-help, following directions, taking turns and other activities that will help promote their self-confidence. Each week, the campers will take one full-day field trip and one half-day field trip as it relates to the weekly themes. For students with exceptional needs, we offer our on-site Summer Enrichment Camp experience, which is designed specifically for students with neurodivergence and/or developmental disabilities. We are currently renovating our main location at 711 Coliseum Plaza Court to create our Center for Thriving Families where we will double the number of students able to be served onsite. As we undergo these renovations this summer, our staff and students will be located on Crossnore’s main campus. Our exceptional students will have the opportunity to take weekly field trips, visit with the onsite farm animals and partake in the community gardens.
Our camps are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, making them an ideal choice for working families. Families may also select their weeks and locations. All camp supplies, field trips and snacks are included in the affordable weekly rate. Our locations fill up quickly; ensure your child will enjoy a summer filled with discovery, play and fun! Registration opens on February 15th. Visit ImprintsCares.org/SummerCamp, or call us at 336.722.6296. Happy camping! Imprints Cares is an education nonprofit that has been serving the Forsyth County community for more than 54 years. Our holistic, multi-generational model promotes positive parenting, improves social drivers of health and enhances opportunities for children and their families to thrive. This comprehensive portfolio of services is evidence-based, grounded in research and offers high-quality support services for children and their families from before birth through middle school. Together, we are nurturing children, strengthening families and building community.
Make RISE Indoor Sports part of your New Year!
Join our cardio fitness center for only $20 / month 419 Twins Way, Bermuda Run, NC | 336-920-7473 | www.RiseIndoorSports.com
for the most up-to-date info, events, & programming
JANUARY 2024 / 23
YMCA of Northwest North Carolina
A Community Dedicated to Wellness by MARTIE EMORY, PHOTOS BY JEJ PHOTOS
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When it comes to understanding the true significance of community, the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina checks all the boxes – with a healthy dose of fun always included! With its steadfast mission to help members grow in spirit, mind and body, that YMCA mantra isn’t only about fitness. Overall wellness exists on so many levels – with personal goals that are so often achieved by joining together with others. With several convenient locations, indoor and outdoor pools, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, free group exercise classes like Hot Yoga and Les Mills BODYPUMP™, sports for those of all ages including pickleball, racquetball and basketball, and
the added bonus of free childcare – YMCA activities impact the entire community with competitive spirit, hope and an unmistakable positive outlook! Plus, all YMCA of Northwest North Carolina members have access to every location and all programs. Your membership at one branch allows you full access and all amenities at each of the 12 locations. While striving to build a better community for families and residents of all ages, the YMCA has distinctive programs modeled to impact individual groups in the area, in the most positive fashion. Reaching Our Potential (ROP), Let’s Get Fit (LGF) and Warrior Sports are three successful examples! JANUARY 2024 / 25
REACHING OUR POTENTIAL INITIATIVE Reaching Our Potential (ROP) is designed to give referred middle and high school-aged teenagers a free membership to the YMCA, and therefore, provides a safe place to go outside of school hours. This is a referral-based program, with students recommended by guidance counselors, local police and sheriff’s departments, clergy or YMCA employees. The ROP program provides structured activities that allow students to place themselves where they feel most comfortable, at their convenience, in their safe space. For many, it’s playing basketball, completing homework assignments or simply hanging out and having conversations with friends. During their after-school time at the Y, teens take advantage of all the fitness facilities, group classes, time on the basketball courts and in the pool, etc. Above all, teens are given a safe place to spend time after school, keeping them from potentially dangerous situations or unsafe areas.
LET’S GET FIT This amazing fitness class is specially designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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LGF is an important fitness initiative tailored for the IDD community. While involved in this program, participants enhance their fitness levels, make new friends and benefit from both the physical and mental well-being that is nourished within the inclusive YMCA community. The Let’s Get Fit class has been a popular staple at the YMCA, and many of the participants have known each other – and their instructors – for years, creating a true family feel. A free YMCA membership is included with consistent participation in the LGF program.
WARRIOR SPORTS Our popular year-round Warrior Sports offerings are designed for children ages eight through 17, with diversabilities, and include basketball, flag football and soccer. Appropriate for all skill levels and athletic abilities, Warrior Sports was the dream of volunteer coach Nicole Romano. The program teaches the fundamentals of each sport, along with an emphasis on character building, teamwork, sportsmanship and nurturing a positive mindset. All players receive a jersey, the necessary equipment for their chosen sport to practice with at home and an end-of-season trophy – and the results are heartwarming! “We are so thankful to Nicole for dreaming up this program and to the YMCA for their support,” says parent Gins Coates. “We are thrilled that there’s a place where our son can confidently play various sports with peers and have a coach who understands his needs. He is free to be himself and can have fun – and exercise – at the same time. He’s gotten to practice some great fundamental motor skills, as well as work on his social skills, while playing basketball, soccer and flag football. Thank you for creating a league where our son can successfully play!” There are also plans for Warrior Sports to expand to other locations in the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina Association in 2024.
HEALTH CARE WHERE IT’S NEEDED With easily available healthcare a huge factor in overall wellness – and broadening their longstanding alliance – Novant Health and the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina have formed a strategic partnership to encompass
the Y’s 14 branch locations across Alexander, Davie, Forsyth, Iredell, Stokes, Wilkes and Yadkin counties. Guided by the local Community Health Needs Assessments, the organizations will expand wellness programming, support youth sports and establish physical and tele-health clinic locations to create integrated healthcare access for the region. Just as they would write a prescription for medication, physicians are now writing prescriptions for the YMCA in an effort to help those who could benefit from the Y’s programs and services to blend exercise and healthy habits into their overall lifestyle. Tim Gribble, association director of Community Integrated Health & Offsite Wellness for the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina, hopes people whose doctors refer them to the Y will like what they find and see how easy it is to join. “We never turn anyone away due to an inability to pay,” Gribble explains. “The Y will waive the joining fee for anyone referred by a Novant Health physician. We never want cost to be a barrier.” There are also virtual care clinics housed within Y branches, which is a real advantage when you don’t want to sit in a crowded waiting room, or if you need a quick check-up for a child. “When the Y is open, virtual care is open,” he says. “Many branches have extended hours, with some open as early as 5:00 a.m., and staying open until 9:00 p.m. Not many urgent care centers are open that early. Access isn’t just about where care is located, it’s also about when it’s available. It needs to be convenient for people who have difficulty getting off work.” The YMCA is more than just a gym; it’s a place where you can feel like your membership and support is making a real difference. Get started at the Y, building up your physical and mental health, while also strengthening the community around you. Visit YMCAnwnc.org for more information on the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina, including programs, class schedules and finding the Y nearest you. Remember, donations to the Annual Impact Fund ensure many of these programs are available at no cost to participants. The YMCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. JANUARY 2024 / 27
Triad Area Events in January January offers a variety of interesting and exciting events for families to experience in and around the Triad. Here are some of the top offerings: Greensboro RV Show & Sale Special Events Center, Greensboro Coliseum Complex Jan. 4-7, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free This is one of the largest RV events in the Carolinas and southern Virginia. Over 175 types and brands of new and used RVs, including pop-up trailers, travel trailers and motorhomes. Jurassic World Live Tour Spectrum Center, Charlotte Jan. 5-7, various times Tickets $25-$80 The Jurassic World comes to life against a backdrop of captivating scenery where dinosaurs – including Velociraptor Blue and a Tyrannosaurus rex more than 40 feet in length – take center stage. The production features more than 24 life-sized dinosaurs that are fast and ferocious. Enchanted Waters Winston-Salem Symphony, Reynolds Auditorium Jan. 6, 7:30 p.m., Jan. 7, 3 p.m. Tickets $29-$95 In this presentation of Claude Debussy’s “La Mer,” the orchestra paints a vivid sonic portrait of the ocean’s vast beauty and mystery. Joe Lovano, a Grammy-winning saxophonist, joins the symphony for a spellbinding performance of Doug Cuomo’s “a raft, the sky, the wild sea,” a concerto that combines improvisation and gripping melodies. Beauty and the Beast in Concert Ovens Auditorium, Bojangles Entertainment Complex, Charlotte Jan. 12-13, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $34 The Charlotte Symphony presents a tale as old as time on the big screen. Experience Disney’s beloved animated classic, overflowing with unforgettable characters and Academy Award-winning music. Sounds of the Mountain Series: Maia Kamil with special guest The Queen Bees Yadkin Cultural Arts Center Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. Tickets $20 Maia has spent years refining a musical style that weaves eclectic influences, vocal dexterity and complex lyrics to create tiny worlds in which the listener can get lost.
Federally insured by NCUA.
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Alan Munde & Bill Evans: What’s Better Than Two Banjos? Carolina Theatre, Greensboro Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m. Tickets $25 and $30 Two legends of bluegrass banjo join forces to perform bluegrass, old-time jazz and much more from their new recordings “Excelsior” and “Things Are Simple.” It’s their first ever East coast duo tour. An Evening With Renée Elise Goldsberry! Piedmont Wind Symphony, Wait Chapel at Wake Forest University Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m. Tickets $50 to $150 Acclaimed singer/actress Renée Elise Goldsberry joins the Piedmont Wind Symphony in a fantastic array of movie and Broadway favorites, including those that she made famous as Angelica in “Hamilton.” Atlantic Coast Trampoline & Tumbling Invitational Greensboro Coliseum Complex Jan. 27-28, 9 a.m. Tickets $15 to $50 This organization, sanctioned by USA Gymnastics, is back in Greensboro for two days of flipping and flying by athletes from the East coast. The events are fun and competitive. Happy Birthday, Mozart! UNC School of the Arts, Watson Hall Jan. 28, 3 p.m. Tickets $20 and $25 UNC School of the Arts faculty artists will come together for a breathtaking performance of chamber music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, honoring his 268th birthday. UNCSA has held this annual tradition since 1978.
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JANUARY 2024 / 29
Your Family’s Favorite Comfort Food PHOTO BY JEJ PHOTOS
by MARTIE EMORY
For the past 18 years, Simply Southern Cuisine in Clemmons has lovingly celebrated the role of comfort food in bringing families closer together! There’s no denying that nothing feeds the soul like the warmth of home-cooked food, shared around the dinner table – even amid seriously hectic family schedules. It’s also likely one of Simply Southern Cuisine’s signature recipes will evoke memories of your own childhood, with memories of cooking together with your mom or grandmother! Owner Lisa Miller is proud of the popular family owned establishment for endless reasons, including the friendliest service around. The original business began in 2003, and Lisa stepped in as owner in 2006. Since then, the business has grown and updated frequently, most recently with a much-needed walk-in freezer and exciting plans for more phases of expanding the retail space. Last month brought a beautiful new sign to grace the store’s entrance and a fresh look going forward in 2024! Yet, even while always moving forward, every delicious dish you enjoy stays true to the company’s original recipes – those that customers and their families still can’t resist. The Simply Southern Cuisine team itself is a true family of amazing employees – where they balance love, laughter, the joy of hard work and success, and how they bring their customers together! Every dish from their incredible, expanded kitchen is made of only the freshest ingredients, from meals you pick up either hot (remember to order two hours ahead of time for hot meals) or frozen, with portion sizes and entrée varieties just right to please every taste bud at your family’s weeknight dinner. This may be the most efficient, convenient part of your busy day! Their famous chicken pies are still the number one customer request, with Swiss chicken, baked spaghetti, and macaroni and cheese high on the list of favorites. Is your family all about
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dessert? Their sweet homemade specialties range from apple pie, pecan pie and cherry yum yum to chocolate eclair and banana pudding. You can also sample a lineup of amazing family recipe cakes and brownies. Regular customers know the real lifesaver is knowing they can drop by and choose something for dinner in a pinch, in a single-serving size, a small size that serves two to three or a large size serving four to six people. You can be sure those loyal “regulars” also have their calendars marked to order ahead for special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries! Your catering needs are also covered at Simply Southern Cuisine – voted Best Caterer in Clemmons/Lewisville for the last three years! Their traditional catering options are available for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or they are happy to customize your catered menu to fit your special occasion. Come experience the deliciousness of Simply Southern Cuisine soon by visiting them at 3570-C Clemmons Road in Clemmons. Call 336.712.4636 for more information or to place an order, or order your next wonderful family meal online at mysimplysouthern.com. Hours are Monday through Friday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Voted Best Chicken Pie in the Triad!
Start the New Year Off Right! Enjoy quality time with your family and leave the cooking to us. Call ahead or order online and pick up a hot meal (or sweet treat) to take home and enjoy.
336-712-4636 | www.mysimplysouthern.com | 3570 C Clemmons Road | Clemmons, NC 27012 S T O R E F R O N T H O U R S : M O N - F R I 1 2 - 5 P M , S AT 1 2 - 4 P M
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Visit Our Community
by MARTIE EMORY
As the nation’s only all-girls boarding and day high school on a college campus that offers a STEAM focus, Salem Academy provides not only a nurturing community for students, but also the brightest possible road for future goals. The extraordinary result is a class of well-rounded, forward thinkers ready to carve their niche in the world! Part of the school’s rigorous college prep curriculum, STEAM was initiated in the summer of 2021, and focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as starting points for guiding students on a path of dialogue, inquiry and critical thinking. “Critical thinking is about analyzing, synthesizing and evaluating information, a skill which is applicable to any path students choose to take after graduation,” shares
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of Life-Changing Study the academy’s STEAM coordinator, Jeanette Juran. “We all do this on a daily basis with the information we consume from news media, social media and entertainment by choosing what to watch, listen to and read. By intentionally building critical thinking skills in our students – through our STEAM curriculum – we are preparing them for college and beyond.” Once the curriculum was officially adopted, an exciting year of planning followed, as staff implemented elements into the 2022-2023 school year. With the importance of the month of January in the application process for the 20242025 school year, right now is the perfect time to schedule a campus tour and learn more about what makes the STEAM curriculum so successful. “It’s now our school-wide focus,” says Jeanette. “All 77 students enrolled at Salem Academy participate.” The beauty of the program is that students are encouraged to interact on many creative levels. “Collaboration is an essential skill and evident throughout our STEAM curriculum,” adds Jeanette. “One specific example is the sophomore year project where students work in groups to plan a service activity (we call them compassion projects) for themselves and a group from the freshmen class. Beyond students, our faculty collaborates in teaching the STEAM courses, as well as interdisciplinary lessons and courses. Another example is our astronomy course which also includes an art component as part of their semester project.” Jeanette also explains that the STEAM curriculum has a different core project for each grade level. “Our freshmen spend their course exploring, which includes an introduction to our STEAM framework, as well as
the entire school, through our Remarkable Women of Salem curriculum and sample classes,” she adds. Sophomores especially love working in groups to plan those service opportunities – for themselves and the freshmen to complete – while juniors identify and plan an internship. Seniors will complete a capstone project where they choose an area of interest to explore more in depth and then share with our community. Wellness and college counseling are also incorporated into the STEAM curriculum. Salem Academy offers the best interdisciplinary coursework in science, technology, engineering, arts and math, as well as robotics and coding, all necessary to be innovators, educators, learners and leaders of the 21st century. Academy students are free to question, create and think for themselves. Along the way, they learn to collaborate with others, design solutions and adapt to the everchanging world around them. With a keen eye on the future, the STEAM focus is an important addition to Salem Academy’s history of excellence, and they welcome the opportunity to share more about their curriculum with prospective parents and students. For more information on Salem Academy or to arrange a tour, email academy@salem.edu, or call 336.721.2643. Salem Academy is located at 601 S. Church Street, Winston-Salem, NC, online at salemacademy.com and on Instagram @salemacademy.
JANUARY 2024 / 33
REFLECTIONS
of a Southern Yankee by DAMIAN DESMOND
Time And then one day you find Ten years have got behind you No one told you when to run You missed the starting gun
- Pink Floyd
Each and every one of our lives is represented by a dash between two dates. My dash began on July 25th, 1973. I have no idea when my dash will come to an end, but I know it will end and there is nothing I can do about it. If life is like a race, then I say it would fit the category of a sprint. It may seem long like a marathon at times, but in reality, it’s much more like a 50-yard dash. In the blink of an eye, life passes us by. Another way to look at this sobering yet important subject is like a bank account. Each of us has a balance of time in our accounts. Unlike a normal bank account, none of us ever knows our balance. Every single moment that passes is another second-minutehour-day-week-monthyear withdrawn from those accounts. We have absolutely no control over when that account hits a zero balance, but it inevitably will. As a child, I would visit my grandparents and cousins every summer in upstate New York for a month. Two of my cousins were adolescent girls who loved to watch the soap opera, “Days of our Lives.” (I was always amazed that I could go 11 months of the year without ever watching a single episode, but I could still easily catch right back up again in that one month.) The one thing I’ve always remembered about that show was the opening
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scene. The image of an hourglass with sand falling from the upper chamber to the lower one and the voice that stated, “Like sand through the hourglass, so are the days of our lives” has always stuck with me. But, it’s really only been in the last 10 years or so that I truly came to understand what that really means. My own hourglass now has more sand in the bottom chamber than the top. Again, it’s a sobering thought, but one that I am comfortable with and accept. So, what is the point of all of this? Well, plain and simple, time is by far the most important thing we have. Some would argue that love is more important, but I would argue that without time you cannot even have love. In our fast-paced, hectic lives, how are you withdrawing time from your account? How are you filling in the dash? When was the last time you climbed to the top of a mountain and gazed in awe at the mosaic of colors stretched out below on a bright, crisp, early October day? Or walked barefoot along the shore as gulls cried out overhead and the warm salt water lapped at your feet? When did you last sit with friends on a rooftop bar with a waxing crescent moon overhead, laughing and enjoying each other’s company? Or gathered with loved ones in a grassy field as the bright flames of a bonfire danced and crackled before you under a starry sky? When was the last time you woke up at 4:30 a.m., made yourself a cup of coffee and just sat quietly in a comfortable chair under a blanket enjoying the tranquility of an early morning? I’ve been very fortunate to routinely experience all of those scenarios. I make them a priority in my life. We don’t have any control over how much time is in our accounts, but we DO have control over how we spend it. Are you spending it wisely? Or are you letting it slip away haphazardly? As Ferris Bueller famously said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” So, again I ask, what are you doing with your dash? How are you utilizing the balance in your account? Are you just sitting idly watching the sand falling through your hourglass? I’ll use one more movie reference. In “Shawshank Redemption,” the main character says, “Get busy livin’, or get busy dyin’.” Personally, I prefer livin’.
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A Birthday Cake to Remember by LAUREN SEPHTON Birthdays are your golden ticket to spend a little extra time in the kitchen, as you make your dream cake. It’s your chance to experiment with new flavors, create a work of art in the most delicious form, or repeat your favorites. The possibilities are endless when it comes to baking a cake, from the cake batter to the frosting to those awe-inspiring finishing decorations. However, whether you decide to keep it simple or make it over-the-top, choose flavors that make you happy, to help make your special day shine even brighter. You can never go wrong with the delicious classics: yellow, chocolate, marble, confetti, and red velvet. But if you are looking to step outside the box this year, you may find inspiration from the list below. Traditional Flavors from Around the World • FRANCE Galette des Rois “King Cake” A puffed pastry cake that’s filled with a warm almond frangipane, and often a little charm called “fève” will be hidden inside for a guest to find during the celebratory dinner. • JAPAN: Mochi A specialty rice cake that Japanese often view as a sign of good fortune. • SOUTH AFRICA: Vetkoek “Fat Cake” Crispy on the outside and filled with a deliciously warm minced curry that won’t have you regretting staying away from the traditional sweet side of birthday cakes. • GREECE/TURKEY: Revani A cake batter made with semolina flour, then sweetened with natural syrups and flavored with a variety of citruses. • GERMANY: Black Forest Cherry Cake Rich, sweet, decadent, and a nice little kick from the abundance of fresh cherries and cherry liqueur.
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• CHINA: Peach-Shaped Pastries filled with Lotus Paste In Chinese literature, the peach is to signify a prosperous, long life. • CHILE: Lucuma Layers of dried meringue complemented by fruit fillings and a sweet custard for the frosting. Different Types of Cakes • MERINGUE CAKE If celebrating during the winter months, warm up with a hot chocolate-inspired meringue cake that beautifully combines two dark chocolate meringue layers with a fluffy marshmallow buttercream frosting. • POUND CAKE Delightful when served alongside warm fruit and toasted nuts. For a little inspiration, try a classic vanilla pound cake with warmed pears and toasted almond shavings. • GENOISE CAKE Most commonly known as a sponge cake, this type of cake is popular in France and Italy when rolled up into a roulade. • ANGEL FOOD CAKE Each bite is very light as this cake batter is whipped only with egg whites and best served with your favorite summer fruits. Frostings to Delight • BUTTERCREAM By far the most popular, a buttercream frosting is versatile and very forgiving. A simple buttercream includes the delicious combination of butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract.
• WHIPPED CREAM It can’t get much simpler than this: whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to round out the flavors. A perfect addition to a summer birthday cake, as it is light and pairs delightfully with fresh berries. • GANACHE Who knew mixing melted chocolate and heavy cream could add such a beautiful coating to your favorite cake? • GLAZE More on the liquid side of frosting consistency, glazes can create a shiny hard crust when cooled on pound cakes, Bundt cakes, and more. • CREAM CHEESE Similar to buttercream frosting, it’s easy and makes a creamy addition to any spiced cake. Three Tips on Baking a Fluffy Cake 1. Room Temperature Eggs While the science behind room temperature ingredients is vast, the simple matter of fact is that room temperature eggs help create a more evenly mixed and voluminous batter. 2. Spoon & Level the Flour It’s important to scoop your flour out of the bag or jar into the measuring cup, then level it off with a knife. This can be a defining step in making a moist cake over a dry cake. 3. Adequate Mixing Remember to only mix the batter until “just combined.” Over-mixing the batter can cause it to become tough and deflated in the oven, while under-mixing won’t evenly distribute the ingredients that cause it to rise properly. Whether you prefer to keep it classic or choose to think the sky is the limit, it doesn’t take an expert to bake a beautiful cake!
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5 WAYS
Conflict Can Lead to Change
Conflict can be internal or external. It can come in the form of conflict with ourselves or others. However, not all conflict can be a bad thing. Sometimes the difficult situations can push ourselves and others into a new territory. Change comes after conflict, allowing for better opportunities and positive experiences to arise. While making “lemonade out of lemons” can be tricky, there are a few ways to ease the transition from conflict to change or finding a solution. Whenever you find yourself at odds with yourself or someone else, try these tips to make the best of the situation.
1
Disagreements are inevitable. Be sure to address the conflict and not let it be swept under the rug. If it is a struggle within yourself, determine the root cause. Then, try to find solutions to prevent the conflict from happening again. If it is a disagreement with someone else, communicate with them. Have a conversation about what happened and why there was a conflict. Seek to understand the other person’s side. Maybe you didn’t fully understand where they were coming from or the reasons behind their opinion. But always remember to be respectful. We all come from different backgrounds with various values and beliefs, which can cause misunderstandings. Always talk through the situations, as communication can pave the way for change. Ask questions about possible triggers for conflict, how to avoid it, and how to best work towards a solution. This is the time to learn more about yourself and others.
2
Whatever type of conflict it is, decide on what you want to happen as an outcome. Do you want something to be different because of this argument? Or do you wish for everything to stay the same? Don’t be afraid to be honest with yourself and others. This is a time to work towards the better.
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by MEGAN TAYLOR
3
Along with knowing what you hope to come out of the dispute, take into consideration what the other party wants to achieve. This doesn’t mean to settle on your plans, but it is important to keep them in mind and allows you to set expectations. Common ground can be found, leading to a greater outcome for change. Also, reflect on their side and viewpoint. It may be an opinion you haven’t considered yet, but one that could help you succeed in your plans.
4
Once you know more about the clash and the intentions, work towards finding a solution. This solution should be one that is positive. Be creative with your ideas and discuss what could work for everyone involved. It is helpful to come up with several potential resolutions. Evaluate the pros and cons of each one. Also, list the positives and how they could lead to change. Lastly, consider the impact of the solution on everyone, how it will be implemented, and how long it will take to start. The key is to act quickly, but thoughtfully.
5
Use the conflict for the greater good by learning from it. Conflict is all about growth and you can’t grow without learning. When you come across similar experiences, you will be better equipped to handle them, thus creating more change and positivity. The goal for turning conflict into change is to improve, or prevent the same conflict from happening again. Hopefully, the outcome will lead to improvement rather than just prevention. Conflicts can be large or small. But they can also create large or small changes. Use these moments for the opportunity to better yourself, and remember that even a small change helps you grow as a person, thus creating more positivity and teachable moments in your life.
E R O M T F LI 2024 IN
JOIN TODAY $0 JOIN FEE
YMCANWNC.ORG $0 joining fee valid through January 31, 2024. New member must join any participating YMCA of NWNC branch to qualify. Program cannot be combined with any other offer. Financial assistance is available. Some guidelines and exceptions apply. See staff for details.
“Build Your Own Dream” Sugar Mamas Movement is hosting a “Build Your Own Dream” vision board party on Sunday, January 7th at 2 - 5pm at Special Moments Venue Order your tickets here!
JANUARY 2024 / 39
Quick and Easy Lunchbox Ideas for All Ages by KAREN COOPER
Let’s get real…putting lunches together every day can become a dreaded chore, and throwing the same sandwich together over and over can leave the lunch receiver a little bored. There are lots of ideas out there, but we’ve put together some special lunchbox suggestions that will appeal to anyone hungry for a delicious lunch…kids and grownups alike! These are not complicated or too time consuming. They are just what a busy parent needs to spice up the lunch boxes and keep the family eating well and enjoying their lunch break every day.
ROLL-UPS
Roll up slices of deli meat by itself, with a slice of cheese, or around a string cheese. Add a favorite dipping sauce on the side.
QUESADILLAS
Who doesn’t love this easy-to-make and easier-to-eat food? There are so many options with different cheeses, meats and veggies. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, and add dipping sauce to complete this lunch treat.
FOOD ON STICKS
Think chicken satay, beef skewers or sausage kebabs, packed on lunchboxsized sticks. Because isn’t everything more fun on a stick?
HUMMUS AND PITA PLATE
Give lunch a Greek flair with a container of hummus, some cut up pita bread, olives, carrots and sliced cucumbers. Make it personal and add whatever else you think your lunch boxer will love.
LEFTOVER PICNIC LUNCH
If you’d eat it for lunch on the weekend, why not pack it in a lunch box? Because nothing beats a cold chicken leg on a Monday. Add salad and veggie chips, and you have a delicious lunchbox meal.
PIZZA WRAPS
This recipe features the flavors of your favorite pizza but only takes a few minutes to make. Spread any jarred pasta sauce over a tortilla, add pepperoni, cheese and any other toppings you prefer. Roll each tortilla up and, with the seams facing down, slice the rolls into one-inch sections. Pack them close together to keep them from coming unrolled.
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FRUITY PEANUT BUTTER PITAS
In a small bowl, blend the peanut butter, allspice, cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread inside pita bread halves; fill with apple and banana slices. Delicious and nutritious for everyone.
MINI GRILLED CHEESE
If you’re looking for a fantastic make-ahead snack, try these miniature grilled cheese sandwiches. They’re nice to have in the freezer for lunch with soup or a salad. Make grilled cheese sandwiches on the stove using butter and, when cooled, cut into triangles or sticks. Add to the lunchbox with tomato sauce for dipping.
DIY LUNCHABLES
Cut meat and cheese into small squares and pack along with crackers and some yummy sides like pretzels and fruit.
PASTA SALAD IN A JAR
You can make this pasta a day or two ahead. When ready to send, you can tie a plastic fork on the jar. Cook penne, rotini or other small pasta and set aside to cool. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, diced fresh mozzarella cheese, black olives and Italian dressing to coat. You can change the ingredients up according to your preference. Add salami or pepperoni if you wish or different vegetables. Make it your own.
BLT TORTILLAS
A simple classic transformed into a lunchboxfriendly favorite. You will need flour tortillas (eight inches), cooked bacon strips, shredded lettuce and cut and seeded tomatoes. Add mayonnaise or ranch dressing to your tortilla. Mix bacon, lettuce and tomato, spread onto tortillas and roll up.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR LUNCHBOX MEALS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Frozen smoothies in squeeze pouches Applesauce pouches Dried fruit, such as raisins Frozen fruit (thawed by lunchtime) Freeze-dried fruit Fruit leather Sweet bell peppers Edamame Grape tomatoes Pickles Side salad Chips & salsa Popcorn Trail mix Jerky Individual cups of guacamole Homemade muffins Granola bars Boxes of chocolate or vanilla milk Yogurt covered raisins Graham crackers Handwritten note Handwritten joke Silly drawing
There’s nothing better than opening a lunchbox when you’re hungry or hangry and tired, to find a delicious, thoughtful meal awaiting you. Because the most important lunches are not only packed with the lunchbox eater’s favorite foods…they’re also packed with warmth and love you can feel.
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JANUARY 2024 / 41
Fancy
fork
Welcome back to the Fancy Fork! Your seasonal produce insight and farm-style recipes that are made to satisfy. The month of January is all about new beginnings and new opportunities! But, it’s also a time of slowing down to relax after the busyness of the holidays. A time to cozy up with all the warm flavors of the winter season.
Recipe developed by LAUREN SEPHTON (@BRIGHTMOMENTCO)
As you stroll along the farmers’ market or grocery aisles, you may notice a greater abundance of hearty vegetables like arugula, broccoli, baby spinach, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, kale, cauliflower, collard
greens, leeks, turnips, sunchokes, radicchio and cabbage. And, while our berries are hibernating for the winter, you can still find apples, kiwi, grapefruit, oranges, pears, persimmons, pomegranates, kumquats and lemons. This month’s recipe will be highlighting the superpowers of sweet potatoes – a versatile potato that is loved by both kids and adults! Sweet potatoes have been studied to treat stomach ulcers, regulate blood sugars, treat arthritis, improve gut health and digestion, enhance brain functions, are great for eye health and boost immunity. They are also high in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.
CRISPY PARMESAN & MOZZARELLA SWEET POTATO BITES PREP. TIME: 20 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 40 MINUTES TOTAL TIME: 60 MINUTES | SERVES: 10+
INGREDIENTS
4 medium Sweet Potatoes 1 cup Grated Parmesan ½ log BUF Creamery Buffalo Mozzarella, grated, about ½ cup 1 tsp. Garlic Powder 1 tsp. Salt
INSTRUCTIONS
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½ tsp. Black Pepper 1 ½ cups Panko Breadcrumbs 2 tsp. Chili Powder 2 tsp. Dried Basil 4 T Olive Oil
1. Preheat oven to 450F. Line a large baking pan with parchment. 2. Prick the sweet potatoes with a fork all over. Place directly on the oven racks to bake 40-50 minutes until fork tender. (TIP: Place a baking pan underneath the potatoes to catch any natural drippings.) 3. Allow the potatoes to cool to the touch before peeling the skin. 4. Place the peeled potatoes in a large bowl and mash. 5. Add ½ cup grated parmesan, ½ cup grated BUF Creamery Buffalo Mozzarella, garlic powder, salt and black pepper. Mix well. 6. Scoop 1-2 tablespoon-sized balls into your hand, then shape into cylinder or rectangle-like shape. Place on the prepared pan. Repeat with remaining mashed potato mixture. 7. In a separate large bowl, combine the remaining grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, chili powder and dried basil. Mix well. 8. Toss each sweet potato cylinder in the breadcrumb mixture until coated. Place back on the pan. 9. Drizzle the potato bites with olive oil. 10. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip over and bake for another 12-15 minutes, until golden and crispy. 11. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Provider Spotlight
Nancy Tuohy, WHNP-BC
Nancy Tuohy is a native of Durham, North Carolina. She is board certified as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, receiving her degree from Georgetown University in 2023. Nancy graduated from Wake Forest University with a BA in Psychology and then received her BSN from UNC Chapel Hill. Nancy is a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. Her special interests include general gynecology, midlife women’s wellness, pelvic floor health, and perimenopause and menopause management. She is a member of the The Menopause Society, the American Urogynecologic Society and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health.
Now Seeing Patients in Winston-Salem 111 Hanestown Court, Suite 151 Winston-Salem, NC 27103 336.765.9350
lyndhurstgyn.com We are in the Novant & Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Networks.
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R To I The S Occasion E 44 / FORSYTHFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
by MARTIE EMORY
With the New Year upon us, many of us will be setting our traditional New Year’s resolutions. If you’re setting your New Year’s goals and you fall into the 48% of people who set out each year to live a healthier and more active lifestyle, RISE Indoor Sports is ready to help you rise to the occasion. Finding a workout regimen that you feel motivated to do, works for your schedule and gives you the results you desire isn’t an easy task. From not knowing where to start to getting lost in the sea of information that is available online, it can be an overwhelming start to your fitness journey. No matter your age or your baseline of physical activity, RISE Indoor Sports has a program for you.
SENIOR FITNESS CLASSES For the seniors in our community who are looking for a way to stay active, RISE’s Senior Fitness Classes are the perfect place to start. As a proud participant of SilverSneakers®, Silver&Fit® and Renew Active®, RISE offers access to our state-of-the-art fitness center and robust senior programming. Many of these programs are free of charge through Medicare and supplemental insurance. Whether you join the Silver Sneakers Classic Class every Tuesday and Thursday for 45 minutes, like to play pickleball with your friends or find your stride walking on a treadmill in our Cardio Fitness Center, there are a variety of senior programs available.
CARDIO FITNESS CENTER RISE boasts a 123,000-square foot facility including eight basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, four pickleball courts, three indoor turf fields and a state-of-art Cardio Fitness Center. Equipped with everything you could need including free weights, resistance machines, treadmills, EFX ellipticals, bikes and group fitness classes, the Cardio and Fitness Center is the place to be if you are looking to build your endurance or simply maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle.
ADULT PICKLEBALL LEAGUE Maybe you’ve tried a fitness center membership before and it was hard for you to stay motivated and consistent. Instead, in 2024, maybe this is the year for you to try something new and join a competitive adult league. RISE offers an adult indoor pickleball league that you can be a part of! Whether you’re a pickleball novice or have been playing for years, this program is suited for all experience levels and is a fun way to exercise and meet new people.
RISE SPORTS PERFORMANCE Are you an adult looking to get fit and healthier in the new year? Maybe you have a child who has aspirations of reaching the top level of athletics or perhaps you’re someone with a drive to compete against yourself and increase your strength, endurance, speed and agility. If any of these descriptions resonate with you, the RISE Sports Performance Program could be your perfect fit in 2024.
they are to provide a fitness program for healthy living. Exercise using our planned workouts but at the level with which you are comfortable.
SPORTS PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS From volleyball and wrestling to soccer and basketball, RISE Indoor Sports offers travel programs for youth and training programs for adults through Triad United Volleyball Academy, Winston-Salem Futbol Sala, Combat Athletics and NC RISE Basketball. Whether you’re playing recreationally or looking to join one of these premier travel clubs, 2024 is the year for you to take your game to the next level.
RISE TO THE OCCASION 2024 is just beginning, and the opportunities to achieve your health and fitness goals are unlimited at RISE Indoor Sports. RISE exists to lift our community through sports, and our team of trainers, coaches and other athletes are ready to help you excel. For more information on these programs and offerings through RISE, contact our team at 336.920.7473 and be sure to follow RISE Indoor Sports on Facebook and Instagram!
RSP Coaches Travis Mash, John Lucchesi and Caleb Mathis, along with our entire RISE team will help provide the ultimate training capacity for every athlete at every level. The Youth Development program starts with athletes as young as seven years old and continues through the professional level. RISE Fit meets adults where JANUARY 2024 / 45
The Grandeur of Elderflowers & Turmeric by LAUREN SEPHTON
From lemon elderflower-infused wedding cakes for the royals to turmeric lattes to warm your hearts, elderflower and turmeric are bound to keep things pretty unique and tasty this winter season.
WHAT IS TURMERIC?
Turmeric is a root plant that’s in the ginger family and is native to Southeast Asia. Its early applications s are noted in many traditional Indian and Chinese medicines that are used for joints, digestive disorders, arthritis, liver, and respiratory infections.
WHAT DOES TURMERIC TASTE LIKE?
This vibrant root has remarkable earthy notes with an impeccable bitter, almost musky, flavor to complement its slightly pepper spice. Its immaculate flavor is unique, yet it can make the tastiest of recipes.
HOW TO BAKE AND COOK WITH TURMERIC?
WHAT IS ELDERFLOWER?
Elderflower is typically an extract naturally derived from white elderflowers grown on elderberry bushes. While the flowers can be spotted beautifully spaced throughout northern Europe, from late May to early June, you may be surprised to find this capturing extract at a local farmer’s.
WHAT DOES ELDERFLOWER TASTE LIKE?
Often, bakers will compare elderflower to rosewater, especially because a little goes a long way. Its intriguing taste can be described as fresh, slightly floral with subtle pear nuances, a little tropical, fruity, and with hints of honey.
HOW TO BAKE AND COOK WITH ELDERFLOWER? Its subtle floral nature makes it a spectacular addition to fluffy buttercreams, lemon-based desserts, cocktails, white wine, whipped cream, fruit parfaits, ice cream, homemade lemonades and sodas, pear tarts, ginger strawberry jam, custards, vanilla bean cakes, lemon poppy seed muffins, panna cotta, sugar cookies, and more. Elderflower’s fruity notes of lychee and pear can add a remarkable touch to many savory dishes, as well, like creamy soups, scallops, crostini, and salad dressings. In addition, if you can spot a whole head of elderflowers, they make elegant garnishes to bring your masterpiece to life!
Not only is turmeric a natural food dye that provides a remarkably vibrant shade of a warm, bright yelloworange, but it also offers big flavors to the simplest dishes. Whether used in powdered form or freshly grated, turmeric can be added to drinks, like anti-inflammatory turmeric ginger lattes, golden milkshakes, and morning detox water. Bake drool-worthy desserts, such as coconut turmeric pies, turmeric sugar cookies, cashew butter chocolate chip cookies with turmeric powder, turmeric lemon bars, golden milk cheesecake bars, ginger turmeric cinnamon rolls, and lemon turmeric tea cakes. For savory dishes, turmeric makes a great addition to yogurt sauces, Indian dishes, curry recipes, and meat marinades. For a little inspiration, some ideas include crispy turmeric sesame potatoes, chicken and rice bakes, turmeric chickpea curry, vegan mac-n-cheese, savory nutritional yeast turmeric popcorn for a dairy-free cheesy taste, and a yogurt marinade with turmeric and garlic for lamb chops.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC? Turmeric’s main active compound, curcumin, has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. You may often hear that a little black pepper activates the turmeric. Natural anti-inflammatory properties not only play a major role in helping your body fight foreign invaders, but they also neutralize free radicals to stimulate your body’s own antioxidant enzymes. In addition, curcumin may help lower heart-disease risks; it has been found to affect the spread of cancer at a molecular level; and has been studied to cross the blood-brain barrier to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF ELDERFLOWER?
As with most ingredients, the health benefits will depend on the quality of the product, as well as how you’re consuming it. Nonetheless, elderflower is rich with antioxidants, especially bio-flavonoid compounds and vitamin C. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties are only the beginning of the list. Due to its natural antioxidant powder, elderflower has been widely used as a natural medicine to overcome flu and cold symptoms. While its antiviral properties are most evident in elderberries, elderflower syrup can still provide the body with diuretic properties to help effectively flush out the kidneys.
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These immune-boosting plants are not only tasty and can add a unique flair to tonight’s dinner, but can keep your skin, mind, and body healthy during this cold winter season. With the endless possibilities, tag @forsythmags with your elderflower and turmeric creations!
@allondatheagent
| allonda@thehawkinsgroupnc.com
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JANUARY 2024 / 47
Child Safety Series
by DAMIAN DESMOND
Winter Weather Safety by TARYN JEREZ
Each month, this series will provide important facts and tips surrounding child safety in an effort to support parents and caregivers as they navigate reducing risks and creating the safest environment possible for the children in their lives. Living in North Carolina, we tend to get the best of both worlds; getting to experience all four seasons throughout the year, without winter being too treacherous! However, that doesn’t mean we don’t still experience our fair share of colder climates and snowy conditions a few months of the year! While there’s something magical about living in a winter wonderland for kids, the truth is the colder weather comes with risk assessment and precautions to keep our youngest loved ones healthy and safe.
WINTER WEATHER TRAVEL PREPAREDNESS
Make it a priority and part of your routine to check weather reports daily, especially when traveling, to avoid risks when traveling with your kiddos in the winter. Take precautions when driving to your destination to make sure your vehicle is serviced with safe tires, ample fuel and an emergency kit with items like a flashlight, snow chains, gloves and more when it’s snowy or icy on the roads. Have car chargers available for GPS devices and smart phones and a phone number saved for towing services like AAA. If you’re traveling far distances to see friends or family, consider letting them know your route and your expected time of arrival in case of emergencies. Be proactive and keep a warm blanket, water and snacks in the event of car problems and being stuck without heat for prolonged periods.
APPROPRIATE COLD WEATHER CLOTHING
One of the key elements in safeguarding children during colder months is ensuring they are dressed appropriately for winter weather. Layering is the most practical approach, so you can make adjustments throughout the day or during play as outdoor and body temperatures change. You can start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from the skin, followed by an insulating layer to trap warmth and finish with a waterproof and wind-resistant outer layer
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to protect against the elements. Don't forget accessories like hats, gloves, scarves and insulated boots to keep your kids warm and dry. (Be sure to label these items if going to school or play dates to avoid being left behind or going home with the wrong child!)
STAY HYDRATED AND NOURISHED
In cold weather, children and parents may not prioritize hydration the same way they would in the summer months. Be sure to encourage regular fluid intake even when children don’t seem thirsty. You can provide warm beverages like hot cocoa and tea to help increase body heat during outdoor activities. Keep them well nourished with snacks that provide good fuel such as trail mix, granola bars and whole-grain crackers with a cheese stick! Ideal snacks will be a balance of carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats, ensuring a quick energy boost. Additionally, plan out a few winterfriendly meals for your kids that have a good blend of nutrition benefits and keep them warm such as soups, stews and casseroles.
CREATE WINTER-RELATED RISK ADVERSITY IN CHILDREN
While winter brings opportunities for fun activities like snowball fights and sledding, it's crucial to balance the excitement with an awareness of potential risks. Supervision is always key to safety, but you want to help raise kids with a healthy dose of risk adversity through education. Find age-appropriate ways to teach your kids about the importance of staying on designated paths and avoiding areas with thin ice and uneven surfaces, and identify unsafe play. Help them to learn how to read their bodies and know if the temperature is too cold and they need to come indoors and take a break when playing. Overall, you want them to learn how to play an active role in their own safety.
TAKE ACTION IF INJURY OR ACCIDENT OCCUR
Always have a first-aid kit easily accessible as well as any important documents such as lists of medications your child is currently taking and phone numbers for contact information for pediatricians and emergency contacts. If you are unsure about the severity or care of an injury but have concern, don’t wait to head to your nearest emergency room or call 911.
HELPFUL RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE • •
Safe Kids Worldwide – safekids.org North Carolina Department of Public Safety
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The View from My Section – A Father’s Perspective
A Salute to Fieldale by A. KEITH TILLEY
“You can’t go home again.” ~ Thomas Wolfe My cousin was telling a story that took place in a small mill town where he and my closest family grew up. The town was straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. This tiny custom-made community called Fieldale in Southern Virginia had its own barbershop, salon, grocery store, diner, ice cream and soda shop, drug store, doctor and dentist office, policeman, two community swimming pools, tennis courts, baseball field, park, schools, two churches and even its own inn. The landmark and center of the town was the YMCA, or the “Y” as we called it. Now, you may be thinking this doesn’t sound so small if it has all these places in it. But, if we’re just talking about the main township area and the core mill homes, it’s not much bigger than the typical subdivisions in Forsyth County, and not even as big as the larger ones. So, you can see why this place had a unique appeal. “The Andy Griffith Show” first aired in the 1960s, and it could have just as easily been inspired by Fieldale, Virginia as much as the actual Mount Airy, North Carolina. It even had its own version of Barney Fife. The story got me thinking back momentarily about life with hitchhikers, leaving doors unlocked, playing in the woods unattended, walking to school and spending most of our free time outdoors. How different the world is now; better in many ways, insofar as comfort goes, but not so good in others. It’s amazing how much things change in a lifetime, “any lifetime.” In other words, people ages 6-10 years apart live in completely different eras in history. For instance, in Fieldale, my family bore witness to at least three different eras of life this small town evolved through. The first was at the height of its heyday, when the homes were owned by mill workers who worked at Fieldcrest Mills, which was literally just three streets over. When you think of mill towns, it usually brings to mind a bleak, lifeless community dependent on the factory. Conversely, Fieldale shattered this cliché. In the first era, my oldest sister and brother went to Fieldale High. My sister was a cheerleader, and my brother played on the varsity basketball team. My uncle was employed by the school and was also the team coach. They played all their games in, you guessed it, the “Y,” a large, three-story structure that included the gym and locker rooms on the ground floor, a front desk, lounge area, pool tables and ping-pong tables on the second floor as well as steps to a third-floor balcony
with seating overlooking the basketball court below. The outside entrance was a giant front porch off the second floor and what seemed like about 50 narrow steps leading sharply upwards to the front door from the sidewalk below. This was where all the action happened – sports, dances and parties for special occasions, and was particularly important as a hangout for young people, both inside and, especially, out. This era included everything you’d expect straight out of the movie Grease, minus the talented singing of course. Next was my cousin’s era (also mine). In this era, the high school was now a middle school, and the Y’s court was used mainly for recreation league games, the occasional dances and just a few less holiday parties. The pool and the parking lot, however, were just as popular as they once were for hanging out. All the services were still intact and operating as usual. Fewer new residents worked at the mill by now; they worked in the schools and businesses in the nearby areas. The young people, however, still got their career started by working at the mill which was thriving. The town was a great place to grow up. All the amenities a youth of that time needed or wanted were just a few steps down the sidewalk. Everyone lived near each other, went to school together, played, celebrated and grew up together. Bonds were tight. High schoolers were separated now into two different schools, about 10 miles apart, making rivalries fierce. However, when the game was over, they knew they would all be hanging out at the local McDonald’s, or of course, the “Y,” so they’d once again be close friends. Today, the pools still operate in the summer, but many of the stores, diners and other amenities have long since closed. The middle/high school is now an apartment complex. As for the “Y,” it had become badly worn and in desperate need of repair. Fortunately, thanks to the Fieldale Heritage Revitalization Project and a generous $1 million Community Development Block Grant from Virginia in November 2022, the heart and soul of the community thrives once more. Though it’s not the same as it once was, and newcomers will likely see an aged, lackluster, mill town – the old-timers will always remember it as one of the best places ever to call home. Musical selection of the month: “Never Grow Up (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
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Happy New Year from Old Salem! We are closed the month of January
Mark you calendar for these upcoming events: Layered Legacies: Quilts from the MESDA at Old Salem March 9-July 21, 2024 N.C. Museum of Art in Raleigh MESDA’s Annual Design Seminar Ordered Beauty: The Classical Home and Garden May 3-4, 2024 Pieced and appliquéd quilt
Couturier Marion Palmer (1807-1895) Check oldsalem.org for more info on these and other Catherine events! Berkeley County, SC
1847 Cotton 109 7/8” x 103 ¼” Acc. 2534.2
JANUARY 2024 / 51
What My Dog Taught Me About by RENEE SKUDRA
Most people are familiar with the old adage “when it rains, it pours.” In the past several months, I can personally testify to the veracity of that saying. My son and I suddenly experienced job losses, car problems, unfulfilling relationships and medical ailments. Throughout all of the pandemonium, one thing alone remained stable and a star through which I could chart my course in a barely navigable and obdurate world – my Bichon Frise, Jackson. His unconditional love and companionship provided an emotional anchor dropped in the midst of a raging and formidable sea, with currents that tossed me hither and thither in an ocean which surged with calamity on a daily basis. This story is about what my dog taught me about hope through simply being there – in place – when one’s world seems to be falling apart. A favorite biblical quote I lean on tells me “God will carry you through the storm” (Isaiah 43:2). A neighbor wryly remarked “remember, God is ‘dog’ spelled backwards.” I told her that I’m a person of faith but that faith also extends to my canine buddy who lifts me up by his example since he cannot do so by prayer. What my dog has taught me:
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Lessons about unconditional love, loyalty and devotion. He doesn’t care about how intelligent I am, what I’m wearing or how much money or influence I have. He has an uncanny way of sensing that I’m experiencing distress and settles down next to me on the couch, quietly resting is head on my knee. It sure feels like empathy. The writer Eckhart Tolle once said that he had many Zen Masters and all of them were cats. I get what he means because my dog, by keeping close and allowing me to hug and hold him and just share space and time, reminds me of a spiritual lesson I need to know – that being alone is no way to go through life. Dogs and people? We’re both pack animals and need the community of others to make everything sensible and worthwhile. More than 54 million dog owners in the United States certainly can’t be wrong.
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Strive to live in the moment. I notice that when Jackson is running around in the park, he is always really happy to be there. It doesn’t matter if the weather is good or inclement. He is fully in that park, focused on the moment, rolling in the grass, chasing a ball or squirrel and affectionately greeting all the children who are drawn into his exultant orbit. This insight has been really helpful in my own life where the impediments to my happiness have often seemed endless, causing me grief and anxiety – thinking about all the things I’ve done or need to do.
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Play more and do it with joy. The game is irrelevant – just play. Jeffrey Bruno wrote in his article entitled “Dogs Teach Me About God” that “The pure sense of joy that dogs have is a mystery to me. Their happiness seems to be connected to how much they are willing to hope, to be vulnerable and to be satisfied with small things.” When I come home from my job, Jackson leaps up and down like crazy, giving me wet kisses, clearly thrilled to see me. His exuberance, like all good joy, is contagious. Sure, he provides a sense of security and protection, but more importantly, I’ve learned what it means to be grateful for the smallest and least momentous of things – sighting a flock of Canada geese in formation in a burnt-sienna sky, frost hanging on the branches of a towering fir tree, the smallest of answered prayers, the kinship of people. I am grateful for my dog’s time and attention and, by extension, for that of other living, sentient things. On a brisk morning in September, in a nearby vacant field, I let Jackson off his leash. A moment later, he gleefully bounds up to me with a bright pink tennis ball in his mouth. In black writing are the words “hope” imprinted on one side. At that second, it feels like nothing less than a message from the Creator, an epiphany from the Great Beyond. That ball is now a sacred object placed upon my fireplace mantel. On a living room wall is a framed print that I bought at a yard sale that same day. There is a picture of a red cardinal sitting on a tree branch with the message “If I keep a green bough in my heart, the singing bird will come.” I greet each day with hope. This dog, whom I rescued six years ago from a county animal shelter, has ironically, in fact, rescued me.
More Cooks in the KITCHEN
Encouraging the Family to Make Meals Together by TARYN JEREZ
You’ve
seen the old sitcoms with the family all seated around the table, place settings at the ready and the doting mother bringing out the perfectly seared pork chops on a lovely platter in one hand, and a steaming side of farm fresh vegetables in the other. It’s like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting, and for many mothers today, it’s a downright fantasy.
It’s okay that the scene in your household at mealtimes doesn’t exactly match what’s on the TV. What’s important is to know your family and the kinds of meals that really bring them together, regardless of when or how they are served. Create a meal plan and cooking schedule that best supports the life each of you leads in your home, and success will follow!
The truth is, fiction is fiction. The average family’s day consists of so many moving parts that it’s typically unrealistic to have one person in charge of cooking meals—and getting everyone around the dinner table to eat is a whole other story! The trick is to have your family tackle meal time in a way that works for them! The best place to start is right in your kitchen, making meals (and memories) together!
There is no better time to get your family involved than at the very start of things! Regardless of your children’s ages, you can have them help with the planning process. Do you have littles? Take them to the grocery store to help pick out their favorite fruits and veggies, asking them to choose one item they’ve never tried before this week. Preteens or teenagers on your hands? Have them find a recipe on YouTube that they are excited to try and write the ingredients on a grocery list themselves. Those everyday breakfasts, lunches and dinners you create are a great opportunity to teach your family about nutrition from a young age and to build good habits.
Let Go of the Leave It To Beaver Fantasy Today the mother watching that same sitcom scene could easily dissect it piece-by-piece, finding the essence of what’s wrong with the image easily by asking herself questions along the way. How is that mother, father and children all home at the same time for dinner? Surely her children don’t all agree to eat the same thing without complaining? How does she have time to cook an elaborate meal while working a full-time job and running each of her kids to soccer practice and ballet?
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Get Everyone Involved In the Planning
Find Joy in the Process Of course, cooking together may take more time, but there’s so much value in the process. In a house with a lot of hustle and bustle, having time with your family to plan a meal and to cook together can quickly become the best part of your week. Remember that as you continue to invest more
time in the kitchen together that skills and tastes will grow! You can make some age-appropriate recipes with your small children, even if it’s something as simple as making PB&J’s for lunches, mixing the pancake batter for breakfast or counting grapes to go in little bags for snacks. Expect messes, whether they come from the kids or your spouse! Who says the family that cooks together can’t also clean together? Make It Part of Your Weekly Routine Once you decide to start, ask your family to pick a day and time each week to have all of your cooks in the kitchen for meal prep! Make it something everyone looks forward to! Maybe it’s Sunday afternoons after church and you make a fun brunch as a family. Are Wednesdays after work and school the one time the door isn’t constantly revolving? Tackle getting lunches together for everyone by pulling out all the sandwich necessities from the refrigerator and sitting at the table ready to assembly-line-style some delicatessen deliciousness. If you have a calendar hanging in the house or a family calendar app, add a reminder of which time slot is for family cooking, so everybody remembers to block that time. When you carve out time as a family to cook together, you can transform an otherwise daunting task into a memory-making time with the ones you love the most.
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Dining Guide: Sage & Salt Bistro Opens in Winston-Salem Sage & Salt Bistro recently opened in WinstonSalem as one of the city’s newest fine-dining spots for top-notch, locally sourced fare. From creative, hand crafted cocktails and one-of-akind entrées to an unmatched ambiance with outdoor dining, Sage & Salt puts 300 S. Liberty Street on the map as one of the most up-andcoming lunch, dinner and happy hour haunts in the Triad. On the menu are Winston-Salem rarities such as dishes incorporating tasty truffles, perfectly prepared, paprika-seasoned octopus with potatoes and melt-in-your-mouth braised short ribs. The family owned bistro prides itself in acquiring locally sourced seafood from the coast that is shipped overnight to ensure patrons are provided with fresh seafood that is never frozen. Sage & Salt’s menu also sports
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seasonal specialties with new additions joining the line-up for spring, summer, fall and winter. While the Sage & Salt team led by consulting Chef Pat Rafferty (formerly of Bouchon in Beverly Hills) puts ample effort into curating the ideal menu that never ceases to entice and intrigue diners, the team places an equal emphasis on utilizing the highest quality local ingredients to take their dishes up a notch. Sage & Salt serves weekly appetizer, entrée and prime rib specials that always keep customers guessing. Aside from an impressive menu, Sage & Salt is adamant about fostering a welcoming and irresistible dining experience for guests. According to Owners Brandon and Kelly Brock, Sage & Salt knows that a dining experience entails more than what’s on a plate. The bistro prioritizes accommodating diners’ substitutions and special requests in the kitchen to avoid putting a bad taste in the mouths of patrons. Executive Chef Anders Benton is well-trained in the culinary world, and the kitchen staff is packed with professionals capable of whipping up dishes to customers’ likings. Diners can rest assured their dishes are in good hands, making Sage & Salt the ideal springboard for curious, yet cautious, customers looking to branch out and try items on the menu that spark their
interest, as well as items that are hard to find at other restaurants throughout the Triad. In addition to the best food in the Triad, Sage & Salt Bistro will offer a standard and reserve wine list with close to 500 different offerings in all price categories; however, these wines will be priced lower than most other restaurants in the area. Wine Director Tom Brock insists on giving diners the opportunity to try great wines at exceptionally low markups, thus selling rare wines rather than simply storing it. With heat lamps and blankets for chilly autumn and winter evenings, the bistro’s outdoor patio keeps hungry guests cozy in cooler weather. From date night to family dinners and even Forsyth Woman’s monthly Girls’ Night Out events, Sage & Salt is a versatile venue for diners of all palettes and personalities. Local employees can even take a break during the workday to enjoy a hearty lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily, with the exception of Sundays. The bistro is busiest between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., so making a reservation through OpenTable is recommended to avoid the dinnertime rush. In the spring, guests can enjoy Sage & Salt’s new next-door neighboring bar and
DINING GUIDE
Clemmons 336-766-0401 Mt. Airy 336-783-0227 Walkertown 336-754-4495
HALF OFF AN APPETIZER
Yadkinville 336-679-7064 Winston-Salem 336-999-8037
Join us to celebrate Ribs on Mondays for $1.25/bone.
www.littlerichardsbarbeque.com
WITH PURCHASE OF AN ENTREE.
*LIMIT ONE PER PARTY
EXPIRES 1/31/24
300 S Liberty Street | Winston-Salem, NC
@sageandsaltbistro
E AT S - A L E S - S P I RI TS
by AMY HILL
restaurant, The Station at Sage & Salt, which will feature live blues and jazz music on most nights, in addition to offering a menu of freshly sourced seafood from around the world, served raw or cooked on a special Robata charcoal-fired grill. Interested in putting your culinary expertise to work? Sage & Salt is looking to hire dedicated and enthusiastic front-of-house and back-of-house staff to join their tight-knit team. Send resumes to sageandsaltgroup@gmail.com to apply.
Mon-Thurs 11am-1am | Fri-Sat 11am-2am Sun 12pm-1am
www.mossysclemmons.com
6235 Towncenter Drive | Clemmons, NC 27012
$5 off any $30 or more purchase
excludes beverage & alcohol one coupon per customer expires 1/31/24. May not be combined with other discounts and promotional gift cards. One per table.
Browse Sage & Salt’s menu online, book a reservation, view career opportunities and learn about upcoming events at sageandsaltbistro.com. For information about weekly specials, be sure to follow Sage & Salt Bistro on Facebook and Instagram at @sageandsaltbistro. Visit in person at 300 S. Liberty Street in Winston-Salem, or place a to-go order by calling 336.829.5007.
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14 Dinnertime Rules for Kids of a Southern Yankee by TRIAD MOMS ON MAIN GUEST BLOGGER GINNY OLSON, AUTHOR OF THE BLOG MOTHERSREST.COM
I got in this bad habit when my oldest was born of eating super fast – and only things you can grab and go, like PopTarts and brownies. That kid is 10 now, yet I still approach food like that. I wasn’t even aware of my tendency to plough through dinner until I saw a list of random etiquette rules on Facebook. With things like “Don’t answer your cell phone during dinner” and “Use your turn signal.” Also, “Sit like a royal.” Um, no. Then I noticed rule #29: Wait until everyone has been served to eat. Huh, this sounded familiar. Like I used to know this back in the days before children. Let’s see if you can relate…
BABIES ARE DEMANDING
You arrive home from the hospital with your dear sweet baby and your life morphs into whatever the tyrant wants. Sleeping on your own schedule? Forget it. Showering when you want? Nope. Mealtimes turn into eat as quickly as possible. Otherwise known as, find something you can eat one-handed and swallow it whole. Because you’re carrying the baby in your other hand and have no idea when the next diaper explosion will come. I don’t have babies anymore, yet, I still eat like this. Even though my boys are old enough for normal, everyone-sitsat-the-table-and-eats-slowly-with-both-hands family dinners.
FAMILY DINNERS ARE COMPLICATED
I like the idea of leisurely family dinners. Especially when experts spout off the benefits like quality time, connection and memory making! Unfortunately, family dinners tend to devolve into me smiling in a detached way while the boys spaz out about eating chicken again or whining that I put peanut butter on only one piece of bread instead of the requested three slices. My desire to wait until everyone has been served to eat quickly turns into get ‘er done, also known as, eat as quickly as possible. So, the Facebook etiquette list got me wondering what I’m modeling for my kiddos. Given that the list also says, teach children good manners, I polled the boys for a list of mealtime rules to see what they’ve internalized so far. I’m impressed with the 14 rules they came up with completely unprompted.
by DAMIAN DESMOND
14 DINNERTIME RULES FOR KIDS 1. Wash your hands before you eat. 2. Say the blessing. 3. Don’t get up unless you must pee. 4. Don’t scream. 5. Don’t play with toys at the table. 6. Don’t chew with your mouth open. 7. Say “please” and “thank you.” 8. Don’t punch your brother. 9. Don’t throw food. 10. Don’t use your cell phone at the table. 11. Don’t pour milk on the floor. 12. Don’t stab anyone in the neck with your fork. 13. Don’t stand on your chair. 14. Don’t spit your food out on your plate. I think it’s a good list. (Although 14? Y’all, that’s a lot of rules!)
SAYING THE BLESSING
What’s missing from the list? Wait until everyone has been served to eat. The closest we come to this is #2: say the blessing. Here’s the big ah-ha moment for me. I can easily make the leap between these two rules for my boys because the purpose behind both of them is togetherness. We say the blessing as a family when we’re all seated, when the table is set and the food is ready to eat. When no one is milling about, heating up leftovers or cleaning up pots and pans. We’re all sitting together, poised to (fingers crossed) enjoy a meal. The blessing gives us a chance to be calm for a minute before we dig in. It centers us and readies our minds, reminding us we’re stepping away from the daily chaos to join together and break bread.
TAKING A NEW APPROACH
Folks say we never stop learning and growing until we’re dead. Which means we have plenty of time to perfect the family dinner. To slow down and enjoy being with one another. To take a minute before we eat to pause and care for one another. To notice who’s at the table and who’s missing. To lavish in the fact that, within the midst of busy school and work schedules, dinnertime is important. Family time is important. Eating is about togetherness. It begins when we approach the table and say the blessing, when we wait until everyone has been served to eat, when we recognize that we want to be with each other. Even if one boy will soon be tempted to stab the other boy with his fork.
For more articles like this, log on to www.TriadMomsOnMain.com 58 / FORSYTHFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
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It’s a Grand Grand Life And Another Year Has Begun by SUSAN WOODALL Despite some angst getting everything done for the holidays, I miss all the preparations in celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even decorating for Halloween. Our daughters have taken over the main dinners of Thanksgiving and Christmas, with me providing whatever I am asked to include. Their dad and I now make the rounds of Thanksgiving with one, Christmas with another, and the third getting the following year of our being present to see the children’s eyes light up first thing on Christmas morning. It’s easy with two of them living next to us to always spend Christmas Day with both. We make sure to FaceTime our Charlotte daughter when we’re not with them to see what Santa has brought. Now, though most people take down their decorations right after the holiday, being Episcopalian, I enjoy ours until the Epiphany, known as the twelfth night, or January 5th. Even then, I struggle to put everything away. I miss the tree with its beautiful ornaments and lights. The space seems so empty. My mother had a friend who kept her artificial tree up year-round. She changed the decorations to reflect Valentine’s, Easter, Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving and other months that didn’t have a specific holiday. Pretty sure I will never get to that point.
I know that the New Year usually includes making resolutions. I have decided that I will not be doing that this year. Like a lot of you, my goals are to diet and exercise, get better sleep habits, use my time more wisely, and other things intended to improve myself. In no time at all, these resolutions are forgotten. This year, I will enjoy myself without them hanging over my head. My intentions for 2024 are to spend more time with my Charlotte family – especially my grandchildren. Our oldest is now 16, her youngest brother turns 10 this month, and her other brother will be 13 in March. I don’t get to see them nearly enough. These are busy times for all of them with school, sports, and other activities. I want to be there to hear all about their days. Being so close to the other families has given me that opportunity and joy to be more involved. I am able to attend their school functions, stay with them from time to time when their parents need help watching one or both. I have picked them up from their schools, taken them to after school activities, been present for dance recitals, stayed over several nights, and been to preschool and kindergarten graduations. I wouldn’t have missed any of them. I like using “intentions” more than “resolutions.” My husband and I have every intention to go to Florida this month to see our grandson play in a soccer tournament. My intention is to be present at as many of our grandchildren’s events as possible. Letting them know by being there for them, not only for the important events, but for the occasional “just because” times, whether in person or by phone, will tell them how much you mean to them. I know I look back at times with my grandparents, who lived too far away to visit more than once a year, with the best memories of our times together, our calls, and letters. I want more of those memories for my grandchildren. At least that is my intention. May 2024 be a wonderful year filled with peace, love, and joy!
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Sense of
NOSTALGIA Uncurated NC Recommendations WINSTON-SALEM
All things food + cocktails
L VE SHARE THE
Share the Love Celebration
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 6:30-10:00 pm Old Town Club Featuring Red Umber & an amazing live auction!
Follow us @forsythmags
@a_senseofnostalgia
To reserve your seat or become a sponsor, visit: WSSTREETSCHOOL.ORG
Take advantage of our wash & fold service and delivery service.
3608 Clemmons Rd. Clemmons, NC 27012 • 336-712-3155 133 Oakwood Dr. Winston-Salem, NC 27103 • 336-725-3773 5061 University Parkway Winston-Salem, NC 27106 • 336-602-2860
getwoshbox.com JANUARY 2024 / 61
“Great art picks up where nature ends.”
~ Marc Chagall
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FEATURED ARTISTS 1 Julissa Guzman, 9th Grade Parkland High School Linda Rubin, Art Teacher
3 Noah Grooms, 6th Grade Walkertown Midde School Meredith Jones, Art Teacher
2 Blakely Parnell, 4th Grade 4 Becky Abel, 12th Grade Caleb’s Creek Elementary Glenn High School Elizabeth Darrah, Art Teacher Erin Jones, Art Teacher
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JAN
LOCAL EVENTS
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SUBMIT EVENTS
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JAN
7
JAN
WINSTON-SALEM MONTESSORI SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE 6050 Holder Road
This is the last WSM Open House before the 2024-2025 school year! Come tour the Winston-Salem Montessori campus. Take a tour of our beautiful Montessori environments and outdoor learning spaces for children ages 18 months to 15 years old. Meet the Guides, listen to their expertise, chat with WSM families and meet like-minded people interested in joining our wonderful community.
SUGAR MAMAS MOVEMENT – VISION BOARD PARTY
Sugar Mamas Movement is hosting a “Build Your Own Dream” vision board party. Your $40 ticket purchase will include mimosas, heavy hors d’oeuvres, networking and all the materials for you to create a beautiful vision board for 2024. Stay tuned for more details as we are excited to announce our special guests who will be joining us to provide tips for health and wellness!
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
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JAN
LESLIE DUNNER CONDUCTS THE GREENSBORO SYMPHONY Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts
JAN
CELEBRATE THE LIFE AND THE LEGACY OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
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JAN
20
5PM-UNTIL
Grab your mom, your sister, your girlsfriends and/or your co-workers and join Forsyth Woman Magazine for a much-needed Girls’ Night Out! Specials include half-priced wine by the glass. Reservations are encouraged and can be made on Open Table. We’ll have our prize board with tons of awesome prizes! Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook @forsythmags for reminders and updates about our monthly GNO events! Sageandsaltbistro.com
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JAN
2-5PM
Special Moments Venue, 2538 Somerset Center Drive in W-S
Sage & Salt Bistro, 300 South Liberty Street in W-S
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2-4PM
8PM
Masterworks III Gina Perregino, mezzo-soprano | Leslie Dunner, conductor Bernstein Three Dance Episodes from “On the Town” Weill The Seven Deadly Sins Darzins Valse Melancolique Respighi Roman Festivals.
4-5PM
Mount Tabor United Methodist Church Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through song and spoken word. This hour-long service will include performances from the Joy Singers of Yadkin Valley, Voices of God’s Children and Mount Tabor UMC’s Chancel Choir as well as readings from the youth group.
THE MOUNTAINTOP
7:30-10PM
Mountcastle Forum, 251 North Spruce Street in W-S After delivering one of his most memorable and famous speeches, civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. returns to his motel room with a storm raging outside. With the arrival of a mysterious stranger, Dr. King reflects on his life, his legacy to his people and prepares to make his final stand confronting his destiny. ltofws.org/spotlight-series
STEEP CANYON RANGERS Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts North Carolina’s own, the Steep Canyon Rangers – Grammy winners and perennial Billboard chart-toppers – will join the Greensboro Symphony for an evening of their latest bluegrass hits and seasoned favorites.
8PM
JAN
OCIE DAVIS QUINTET
20
Piedmont Jazz Alliance
JAN
ROTARY CLUB OF WESTERN FORSYTH HONORS VIETNAM VETERANS
30
JExperience the vibe! Tickets and information available at piedmontjazzalliance.com.
12-1PM
Sixty Six Grill and Taphouse In addition to honoring the 2023 Lewisville Firefighter of the Year, Rotary Club of Western Forsyth will welcome Martin Tucker to share from his “Vietnam Photographs from North Carolina Veterans” book. Every veteran in attendance will receive a special commemorative coin to thank them for their service.
FUTURE EVENTS FEB
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FEB
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TRIAD GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON High Point Country Club, 800 Country Club Drive in High Point Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women. Join us to celebrate National Wear Red Day and learn hose to love your heart. To purchase tickets, visit heart.org/triadgored.
RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER Reynolds Auditorium Bluegrass icon and 15-time Grammy winner Ricky Skaggs returns to the Symphony stage for a boot-scootin’ night of his legendary hits. Tickets and more at wssymphony.org.
FEB
SAVE THE DATE FOR GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT AT ROBERT HALL
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Save the date for this special Galentine’s themed Girls’ Night out! Follow us on social media @forsythmags, and subscribe to our email newsletter at forsythwoman.com to receive event reminders.
FEB
TROUBLE IN MIND
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7:30-11PM
Hanesbrands Theatre – The Little Theatre of W-S Wiletta Mayer is a talented Black actress who has been cast time and time again in stereotypical roles in second-rate plays. Now, she’s been given a role in an upcoming Broadway play about anti-lynching in America. But it might not be the dream role nor the enlightened play she was hoping for, given the director is a white man, but that doesn’t mean it won’t sell out. intothearts.org/hanesbrands-theatre
CLE THOMPSON
Piedmont Jazz Alliance Experience the vibe! Tickets and information available at piedmontjazzalliance.com.
JESSIE MONTGOMERY’S STRUM Reynolds Auditorium
A fun work by composer Jessie Montgomery opens a concert featuring virtuoso bassist Edgar Meyer and Dvorak’s New World Symphony. Tickets and more at wssymphony.org.
FORSYTH WOMAN MAGAZINE’S 3RD ANNUAL WOMEN ON THE MOVE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
9AM-5PM
WinMock at Kinderton
Delve deep into self-discovery, and unlock your full potential. Limited tickets available. Cost: $99/person. Learn more and purchase your tickets at tinyurl.com/WOMC2024
*Event details are subject to change. Please check event websites & social media pages for updates as the dates draw near.*
Let Your Child Finish the Story! Ideas to Help Your Child Become a Better Writer by MEGAN TAYLOR
Most of the time, when a child is told to write something, he or she meets the assignment with groans and, “Do I have to?” There are the exceptions of children who love and enjoy writing. For me, writing is a chance to be creative, relax, and gives me an opportunity to let my thoughts run wild. It can also be challenging at times, trying to figure out the order of my words and sentences, and how continually to push myself as a writer. These challenges are very similar to the many reasons why a child doesn’t like to write. When it comes to writing, some children find it a difficult task to complete. They struggle with brainstorming, not knowing what to write about, or how to get their thoughts down on paper. Add in the component of using correct grammar and punctuation, writing can be challenging and painful. Together, these characteristics can make writing not a favorite thing for many children. However, children can become proficient writers with practice and the right tricks to help them. Practicing is key to helping a child become more comfortable with writing. Start small with a simple prompt or question, and the amount you want your child to write. For example, it could be to write a sentence about what happened at school or write a paragraph about fall. The amount all depends on the child’s age and ability. Then, practice daily. Writing is a life skill that needs constant practice to get better. Even the world’s best-known writers practiced to get better over time. As a parent, you can take on the role of coach and reader for your child. Instead of correcting their writing and practice exercises, help and guide them to be better. Think of your role as being their editor who is there to offer suggestions and ideas, not use red ink on their grammar skills. A parent can still correct their child’s grammar in a coaching way.
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Part of practicing includes brainstorming ideas and building your child’s vocabulary. Create a writer’s notebook with them that they carry around and where they jot down ideas they could write about. Divide the notebook into two main sections: ideas and vocabulary. For ideas, let your child write down anything that pops into their mind. It could be something they see, feel or smell. Another option is to give your child a prompt. After a trip to the grocery store or park, have them write down what they saw. Whatever the prompt may be, encourage them to use their five senses, sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, to write. Lastly, in order to become a better writer, one must read, read, and read. The more a child reads, the more words and writing techniques they are exposed to. A child’s note in their notebook could be reflections of what they have read, and that reading can come from anything, a newspaper, book, magazine, etc. The second section of their writer’s notebook should be about new vocabulary. It could be a new word that they learned and want to add to a story. Creating a vocabulary list of new words can help your child learn and retain them. Also, next to the word in the list, be sure to add its definition. This writer’s notebook is a great spot for taking notes and remembering ideas, thoughts, or writing techniques to help your child write. After they have written something, read it together, but let your child do the talking. By doing so, you are teaching your child that their writing and voice matters; it is valued and you are paying attention to it. Be careful not to interrupt or correct your child during this reading. After reading, then you can go back and make suggestions. Together, these tools will guide you in assisting your child to grow stronger in writing.
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