Tax Deferment Services Available to Homeowners

BY LISA S.T. DOSS

Welcoming in 2022 may open the door for property tax exemptions! Before thinking this fantastic opportunity couldn’t possibly benefit you, wait! North Carolina has programs to assist all residents in a low, fixed income, disabled, or rated as a disabled veteran, while each of the 100 counties offers specialized programs for private and public landowners. Application deadlines occur in June and December; therefore, you have time to research, plan and apply for an exemption, lowered tax value or deferment. It takes a few minutes to determine whether you qualify; so, start today by making a phone call or researching the applicable programs available to you!

Forest Service Land Management Program

The Forest Development Program, FDP, offers a reforestation and forest stand improvement program to landowners who own a minimum of 10 acres. The program aims to help landowners understand the type of trees, healthy or sickly, native or invasive, growing on their property; then, with the guidance of the FDP, homeowners can proceed by planting seedlings or eliminating damaging species to establish healthy forests. If interested, don’t hesitate to contact your local forest service to schedule a land management consultation and determine eligibility for a tax deferment. Fees are $5 per acre.

Present-Use-Value Deferment Program

Landowners who receive an income from raising livestock, growing crops or timber pay a tax liability based on the size of the tract and proportion of their land. The “Present-UseValue,” PUV, allows an eligible agricultural property to be taxed at its farming value rather than its market value. Qualifications include a minimum of five acres applied to horticulture use, 10 acres of agriculture, 20 acres for timber production and up to 100 acres for wildlife habitats. A land management plan is essential to determine eligibility; therefore, interested individuals should contact N.C. Division of Forestry to learn more about receiving tax relief.

Community Conservation Assistance Program

CCAP is an incentive-based program designed to improve water quality in urban, suburban and rural soil and water conversation districts not directly connected to agriculture. All private and public-owned lands, including homeowners, schools, parks, churches and community groups, can receive educational, technical and financial assistance. Interested Forsyth County landowners can contact Soil and Water Conservation to ask questions and receive an application.

N.C. TAX RELIEF PROGRAMS

Three programs extend to qualified homeowners who live in a permanent residence. Contact your local county tax office to learn additional details and submit an application by its deadline on June 1st.

1.Elderly or Disabled Exclusion: Available for individuals 65 years of age or permanently disabled with an income totaling $27,100, the program excludes the first 50% or 25,000 from taxation. Unmarried or joint property owners can apply separately, receiving benefits based on their percentage of ownership. Once accepted into the program, awarded members do not need to reapply unless income or status changes.

2. Circuit Breaker Tax Deferment Program: This program is offered to homeowners in residence for a minimum of five years, 65 years old or permanently disabled with an income totaling $40,650 annually. Taxes are based on the percentage of the owner’s income, not exceeding five percent, and deferred, implying delayed until a disqualifying event occurs. Eligibility is maintained unless the owner no longer uses the home as a residence, dies or sells the property. All participants must file an annual application with the

Circuit Breaker Tax Deferment Program.

3. Disabled Veteran Exclusion: Honorably discharged, disabled veterans or their unmarried, surviving spouses can receive a property tax reduction.

Not limited by age or income, the program excluded the first $45,000 of the home’s appraised value if the disability or housing modification is service connected.

Start researching today about North Carolina’s tax deferment programs in your county. You’ll be amazed at the many ways North Carolina is helping homeowners answer the question, “How can we continue to live on our property?” or “Where can we find better management practices?” N.C. State Cooperative Extension offices and N.C. Forest Service offers free or a minimal fee consultation to improve your land and goals!

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BY MEGAN TAYLOR

It is a common human fear—the possibility of making a mistake. It happens to all of us at various times throughout our lives. Mistakes can come in big or small sizes. They can be as simple as buying the incorrect type of soap at the grocery store, or something on a greater scale with longer-lasting impact. Mistakes are often associated with failure. You got something wrong and when a person gets something wrong, there can be embarrassment, guilt, and the thoughts of, “I should have known better” or “Why did I do that?” However, mistakes aren’t always a bad thing, and can be a learning tool. Writer Richard Curwin writes in the article “It’s a Mistake Not to Use Mistakes as Part of the Learning Process,” that after hearing a Ted talk from Dr. Brian Goldman, he realized that his mistakes fell into four categories: those I hid; those I learned nothing from; those I learned from; and those I learned from and shared my new knowledge with others. The last two categories, Curwin states, are the ones everyone should focus on. When a mistake occurs, one of the first things a person should do is embrace it. Embrace the fact that things didn’t go as planned, and that that is okay. Then, find a solution and fix that error. Go back to the store for the right item, apologize to the people involved or find whatever a solution may be, and immediately correct it. After fixing your mistake, acknowledge it and reflect on what happened. This can be hard, because a person normally doesn’t want to ponder on their failures. They would rather sweep them under the rug and move on. While this is often doable, it isn’t the most productive or healthy way to deal with them and prevent them from recurring. Well-known business consultant Steven Denn once said, “You can never make the same mistake twice because the second time you make it, it’s not a mistake, it’s a choice.” The key to making sure that same mistake doesn’t happen again is by taking the time to learn from it—but how? After embracing and correcting the mistake, make notes about what happened and describe the situation that created the mistake. Were you in a rush? Did you overlook a step, or weren’t fully focusing on it? Or maybe you just didn’t know what to do. Take a full inventory of the situation and what you were doing. Now, you may be thinking, “I made the mistake of getting the wrong item at the store. Why do I need to reflect on that?” You can learn from that simple mistake by giving yourself a chance to be more focused on what you are doing in the exact moment. Next, develop a plan to prevent the mistake from happening again. With human nature, there will be times that the same mistake occurs more than once, but we can do all that we are able to stop it from recurring. Think about all the different solutions of what to do next time. As you go through this process, you are building muscle memory in your brain and physical skills, so you will be more aware, when and if you are ever in the same situation for that mistake to happen again. This will quickly build effective habits. After reflecting, take some time to regroup and refocus. Once you have designed your plan, move on to your next task. Don’t dwell on the mistake for long. After you have completed your reflection, that mistake is over. Former Los Angeles Lakers head coach, Luke Walton, once said, “You can’t change what happened, but you can change what happens next.” It is best to stay positive, not get discouraged, and believe in yourself. Mistakes are going to happen. Nevertheless, how we use mistakes to better ourselves and move forward is more important. Mistakes can be one of the best learning opportunities. Reflecting on them allows a person to grow. So, the next time you make a mistake, don’t be afraid, and don’t think of it as a failure. Reflect, regroup, and begin to use your new-found knowledge. Never fear making a mistake again. Just be sure to learn from it.

Indian Food & Beverages Offer a Host of Health Benefits and Keep You Warm this Winter

BY SUSAN B. B. SCHABACKER

As the winter air grows colder and we crave comfort foods that keep us warm, Indian food and beverages are a good go-to. Thanks to a growing diversity of cultures and cuisines all around the US, Indian cuisine has secured a special spotlight in Americans’ tummies. Not only is Indian cuisine flavorfully delicious, but it’s also beneficially nutritious. With a “namaste” nod to savory spices, often combining curry with turmeric, ginger, and black pepper, you’ll keep inflammation at bay and boost your overall health.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF INDIAN SPICES

In addition to masala spices like those used in chai black tea, other popular Indian spices include turmeric, ginger, coriander, fenugreek, cumin (aka jira), nutmeg, mustard seeds, saffron, and chili. Many Indian spices are antioxidant-rich, fighting harmful free radicals to prevent cell damage and early aging, as well as immune-boosting to help prevent illnesses and diseases.

Health benefits of Indian spices are plentiful, with specific properties characteristic to each. With antiinflammatory properties, curcumin in turmeric has been found to improve arthritis, boost cognitive function with a potentially positive impact on Alzheimer’s, and reduce risk of heart disease and cancer. Some of fenugreek’s health benefits include regulating blood sugar, improving metabolism, reducing heartburn, and maintaining weight. Rich in iron, cumin has proven effective in improving neurological conditions and mental illness, inflammatory conditions, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and infertility.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF INDIAN FOOD INGREDIENTS

Some of the healthy ingredients in Indian dishes include beans (chana), legumes (daal), chickpeas/ garbanzo cauliflower (gobi), potatoes (aloo), chili peppers, eggplant, and basmati rice. Beans contain cancer-combating nutrients, high in fiber, folate, and phytochemicals (flavonoids, inositol, and sterols). Research has shown that diets high in legumes are associated with a lower risk of diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, chili peppers found in so many Indian dishes contain capsaicin, found in animal studies to inhibit development of some cancers. that boldly boasts bountiful benefits? Masala chai black tea has risen to stardom as a favorite tea among tea lovers and Indian cuisine lovers alike.

ORANGE GINGER TURMERIC MASALA CHAI BLACK TEA BLEND

INGREDIENTS: 3-4 teaspoons or 3-4 tea bags Black

Tea (e.g., Assam, Keemun, English or Irish Breakfast tea) ¾ teaspoon powdered or grated ginger ¾ teaspoon orange zest ¾ teaspoon powdered or grated turmeric (aka haldi) ¾ teaspoon cinnamon powder or 3 cinnamon sticks (aka dalchini) ½ Tablespoon whole cardamom pods 4-5 whole star anise 1 teaspoon black peppercorns Stevia, honey, or maple syrup, to taste Milk or cream, as desired

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Combine ingredients into a pot. 2. Add water to pot or electric kettle and boil. 3. Stir regularly and consider adding stevia, honey, or maple syrup, and milk or cream, as desired, or to each individual cup. 4. Pour into a French press or pour through a tea strainer into individual mugs.

INDIAN CURRY SAUCE (ONION TOMATO BHUNA MASALA)

This is a good guideline recipe that you can easily adapt as a basis for Indian sauces, swapping out any veggies and spices as you like. You can also add other protein options, if you prefer, like chicken, fish, or tofu.

INGREDIENTS: Onions

Tomatoes Garbanzo beans/chickpeas Cauliflower

Potatoes Ginger Garlic *Spices Coconut milk Masala chai black tea EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)

*Basic Indian spice combination may include ground coriander, turmeric and red chili powder. Add whichever spices in whichever combination you prefer.

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Chop veggies and meat, fish, or tofu. 2. Add a dollop of EVOO to a large saucepan on medium heat. Cook hard veggies first (potatoes and cauliflower), gradually adding in other veggies and chickpeas/ garbanzo beans as the harder veggies soften. 3. Stir masala chai black tea and coconut milk together in a saucepan at medium heat.

4. Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices. 5. Taste test and simmer and serve when ready.

Recipe adapted from pipingpotcurry. com/indian-curry-sauce-bhuna-masala/

Hope you enjoy these authentic Indian-inspired recipes to your health and happiness! So, “namaste” and “bon appetite,” as you stay warm this winter!

Child Safety Series

Winter Weather

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.

Whether enjoying the cold weather outdoors or admiring the icy chill while staying warm inside, the winter months create a season of memory making. To keep the winter magical for children, it’s important to be aware and prepared for safety concerns due to severe storms and extreme temperatures. Read along for valuable tips to ensure a safe and healthy winter season.

UNDERSTANDING COMMON WINTER INJURIES

Hypothermia

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature.” While a human’s body temperature is considered normal at 98.6° F, when it succumbs to Hypothermia the temperature drops below 95° F. Children are at highest risk for Hypothermia by prolonged exposure to extreme cold weather, as well as being immersed in cold water, which can cause irreversible damage to the heart and respiratory system, and in extreme cases, death.

Early Signs of Hypothermia to look out for:

• Low energy levels • Cold and flushed red skin

• Inability or lack of desire to eat or drink

• Difficulty breathing

Frostbite

Unfortunately, frostbite can affect children more often than adults, due to their tendency to lose heat from their body faster. Frostbite does not always cause permanent damage, but can still be severe, damaging the skin and underlying tissue after exposed body parts have been in freezing temperatures too long. Typically, children who experience frostbite show symptoms, such as freezing, prickling feelings in their appendages as well as numbness, discoloration and possible inflammation. There are three stages to be aware of to help determine the severity of a child’s injury; frostnip, superficial frostbite and deep frostbite.

Early signs of frostbite to look out for: • Fingers, toes, or other skin areas looking paler than normal • Child complaining of burning, tingling, or painful extremities • Blisters within 24 hours of extreme weather exposure

Vehicle Collisions

Winter months are known for creating icy and snowy roads that can lead to slippery, dangerous road conditions. Avoid driving, especially with children, when adverse weather conditions are known in advance, even when it means postponing travel or holiday plans. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urges families to buckle up young children in a car seat in the back seat, following guidelines for their child’s height and weight requirements per their car seat model and manufacturer. It’s also important to remember that once your child is in their car seat, they should not be bundled up in thick layers, such as with snowsuits, puffer jackets and vests or any bulky winter coats that prevent the harness from fitting tightly against the body of the child. You can use a blanket to lay on top of your youngest passengers to keep them warm, as well as layers like those provided by mittens and hats.

Prevention and Preparedness

While many parents and caregivers think about extreme winter weather

conditions being unsuitable for outdoor play or travel with children, they don’t realize the risk a regular winter day can pose for a child. Being educated on winter safety and setting boundaries with children regarding time spent outdoors can help keep them protected.

Here are 10 simple steps to take to help avoid winter injuries from occurring: 1. Limit time spent outdoors in cold weather months;

2. Always dress in warm layers and choose weather-proof clothing; 3. Keep sensitive areas covered, such as hands, feet, and ears;

4. When water or snow is concerned, keep skin dry; 5. Have children take indoor breaks between time spent playing; 6. Always have a buddy system to keep kids from being alone outside in winter;

7. Never bundle your child when buckling them into their car seat;

8. Avoid after-market winter car seat “solutions” that haven’t been crash-tested; 9. Always have extra clean, dry clothing such as hat, socks, mittens, and layers for kids;

10. Check winter weather forecasts and advisories often for updates before traveling.

Taking Action If Injury or Accidents 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 with 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

• American Academy of

Pediatrics (AAP)- {ONLINE

ARTICLE HYPERLINK: https://www.aap.org/}

• Institute of Childhood

Preparedness {ONLINE

ARTICLE HYPERLINK: https://www. childhoodpreparedness. org/ }

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The Household Rules for Technology

BY LISA S.T. DOSS

Technology can feel overwhelming. Every day, new devices and apps arrive, while social media trends change from one format to the next. It’s hard to know whether we keep our children safe with the growing number of online threats, predators, and fears of Internet addiction. Do you have an established set of rules for the household? Deciding upon the expectations of the home can help everyone, dads and moms, too, reach an understanding about imposing less stress, conflict, verbal opposition, and how to obtain the goal of a happy home! Children’s Technology Rules Request Researchers at the University of Michigan and the University of Washington questioned 249 families with children between the ages of 10 and 17 to explore their expectations for parents’ technology use and household rules. The result shed astounding information into a child’s perceptions and opinions! The survey’s feedback was compiled in seven categories. 1. Children would like to talk to their parents without the distraction of technology. 2. Children agree rules are for their protection and safety. 3. Children feel they can be responsible for handling technology usage and decision making. 4. Children want to approve posts and pictures about themselves. 5. Children feel parents need to balance their own screen time rather than making it a primary activity. 6. Children disapprove when parents text and drive and check messages at stoplights. 7. Children want household rules for everyone in the home, which means

“no hypocrisy.’’ Collectively, children expressed a willingness to abide by rules when they applied to everyone. The Family Meeting Inviting everyone to the living room for a conversation opens the door to invite questions, explain ideas, and determine rules as a family. While households have verbal guidelines, sometimes parents have a hard time abiding by their own rules. To ensure a clear understanding by everyone present, consider documenting each expectation in writing; therefore, ask a member in the circle to act as a secretary and take notes. Remember, it’s not a lecture. Children, too, want a healthy family, and they understand, despite the grumbling, that rules are in place to protect each member of the household. Use statistics concerning online predators, internet addiction, or news stories involving a house break-in due to a post identifying a teen who was home alone, or a family leaving for a week-long vacation.

TOPICS AND QUESTIONS TO DISCUSS:

1. What annoying habits occur because of prolonged technology usage?

2. Is screen-time more important than family time, especially at the dinner table?

3. Does technology impact certain obligations, like homework or chores? 4. Why is shutting down optimal at night or when a person is left in the kitchen at bedtime?

5. Are any games, apps, or sites banned?

6. Establishing specific rules about online behavior. 7. Creating rules about posts and pictures relating to home security. 8. Settings on technology need to be for “friends” only and include Dad &

Mom as “friends.” Family Security Most children feel parents have created safety measures; therefore, they are “risk-free” from potential online dangers. This mindset can invoke a false sense of security, especially with strangers. It’s vital families openly discuss the rules concerning personal details or private family information on social media.

RULES SHOULD INCLUDE:

• avoiding conversations about the home’s security system, including cameras, keypads, or pet doors.

Predators are looking for information to use to enter a home. In addition, most break-ins occur not necessarily at night, but during the day. • waiting until the family returns to post the announcement and pictures of a trip or vacation. • posting the home address or phone number online or through private messaging, especially to an unknown person. Check settings frequently to ensure vital information remains confidential!

• defining what constitutes privacy.

Perhaps it’s an heirloom, a valuable object, specific possession, or training.

Everyone in the household can discuss what remains a family matter.

Start treating social media like the family home. Sometimes, you lock the doors, turn off the lights, and close the curtains. You certainly don’t allow a third party to determine your “settings.”

Families are well aware this is the era of technology. Parents are hugs and real conversations, not likes and emoji hearts. The balance can be achieved through conversation, rules, and the promise to abide by them!