FF January 2023

PHOTOS BY MEGAN BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY

Hello!

My name is Brooke Eagle, and I am thrilled to be the brand new publisher of Forsyth Family Magazine! Before I tell you a little about me, I want to give a huge thank you and congratulations to Robin Bralley. Robin published Forsyth Family for the last 15 years! She is a kind, loving, family first woman of tremendous faith. She’s been in my life for just about as long as I can remember, and it’s an honor to continue her mission of celebrating family life through this magazine.

A few things about me:

• I have been involved with Forsyth Magazines since they began 18 years ago! From writing a “teen talk” column and helping deliver magazines as a teenager and college student to selling ads, hosting our podcast, planning events and being a publisher. I’ve loved being a part of nearly every possible role in some form or fashion.

• I have two dogs – a 110-pound bernedoodle (Carter) and a German shepherd (Murphy).

• In October 2021, I opened Washington Park CrossFit with two business partners. I have a passion for helping my community, and this gym fits into that passion perfectly!

• Snowboarding and wake surfing are two of my favorite hobbies!

• I have a major sweet tooth, and you can always find sour candy in my pantry and plenty of ice cream options in the freezer.

While we have some exciting changes in the works for Forsyth Family, our love for supporting local businesses and bringing our community together is one thing that will never change.

It’s an honor to feature Forsyth Country Day School on the cover of this issue. You can read all about how they are getting creative to engage their students on pages 32-25.

Readers tell us often that they love recipes, and we’re thrilled to add another recipe column starting with this issue! Check out All Types of Bowls on page 30.

We hope you enjoy reading through this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together!

If you ever have any feedback or comments, I’d love to hear them! You can email me at Brooke@forsythmags.com

Wishing you a happy and healthy start to 2023!

All my best,

PUBLISHER

Brooke Eagle Brooke@ForsythMags.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Tamara Bodford

ADVERTISING

Advertising@ForsythMags.com

BACK OFFICE & VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

The Office Nerd, Denise Heidel

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Tom Howell

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jodie Brim Creative • JEJ Photos

CONTENT EDITOR Meghan Corbett

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Robin Shupe Keller

SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Martie Emory Carolyn Peterson

OTHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Adele Casanova • Casey Cheek

Karen Cooper Elisa Coppede

Damian Desmond Amy Hill

Taryn Jerez Michael Johnson

Susan Schabacker Leslie Speas

Priscilla St. John Megan Taylor Keith Tilley Susan Woodall

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION Laurie Dalton

WEB DESIGN/MAINTENANCE Ian McIlwraith

IT SUPPORT

Creative IT CreativeIT.com

CONTACT

.forsythfamilymagazine.com 888-892-3204

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.

HEAD

REAL TY GROU P

RESIDENTIAL | LUXURY | COMMERCIAL

AKarin Head Realty Company

Every Issue

Reflections of a Southern Yankee 20

NEW! All Types of Bowls 30

The Fancy Fork 58

Out & About in Winston-Salem 68

Triad Moms on Main 72

It’s a Grand Life 74

The View from My Section: A Father’s Perspective 76

Dining Guide 78

When You Need Orthopedic Care, Trust Our Experts

by ADELE CASANOVA

The team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists at Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is dedicated to patient care using the latest techniques and procedures. “The biggest thing we try to strive for in our clinic is to provide excellent patient care,” states Dr. Stuart Saunders, orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Saunders specializes in foot and ankle orthopedic-related conditions. “We work to get you back on your feet as quickly as we can, so you can continue to enjoy your life.”

The doctors at Novant Health Orthopedic & Sports Medicine work with patients experiencing sports injuries, including sprains and overuse, and orthopedic concerns such as arthritis. In addition, they offer a comprehensive joint program for head, neck, shoulder, elbow, hand, hip, knee, foot and ankle concerns.

Treatments are customized to each patient and can include robotic-assisted surgical procedures that can get you home the same day. The team also provides onsite rehabilitation and physical therapy for your convenience.

Meet Dr. Saunders

Dr. Saunders practices in the Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clemmons location. He graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina and completed his internship and residency in Orthopedic Surgery at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center; he then completed a fellowship in Orthopedic, Ankle & Foot at the Hospital for Special Surgery.

Dr. Saunders has more than 10 years of experience in treating foot and ankle orthopedic related conditions, with osteoarthritis treatment as a special focus.

Dr. Saunders enjoys working with patients of all ages; treating patients for multiple conditions such as sports injuries, fractures, reconstruction surgeries and even joint replacement of the ankle. He offers minimally invasive surgery for bunion correction and other common foot and ankle conditions. Dr. Saunders also offers treatment for ankle instability and recurrent ankle sprains using the InternalBrace, a biodegradable support fiber used to stabilize the ankle, allowing blood and bone marrow to circulate through it, which makes the ankle more stable and shortens recovery time.

Dr. Saunders is at our Clemmons location, which is open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome or you can make an appointment. Call us at 336-893-2400.

Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

7210 Village Medical Center, Suite 110, Clemmons.

Novant Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine also has locations across the Triad in Winston-Salem, High Point, Greensboro, Kernersville, King, Lexington and Thomasville. To learn more, visit NovantHealth.org/ortho.

first look

at the 2023 Women on the Move

BY TARYN JEREZ

There is magic in the making as we countdown to Monday, March 20th for the 2023 “Women on the Move Leadership Conference ‘’ hosted by Forsyth Woman Magazines. We hope you will join us for the second year of bringing our monthly “Women on the Move” column to life in conference form. “Women on the Move” has highlighted the incredible accomplishments of women in our community since Forsyth Woman’s inception 16 years ago!

This year’s full day event is made possible with the generosity of our presenting sponsor, Renewal Med Spa at Salem Plastic Surgery, and will bring together our community’s incredible women who are ready to learn and grow both personally and professionally. Attendees can expect to take part in an inspiring and empowering event at the gorgeous Winmock at Kinderton in Bermuda Run surrounded by hosts, speakers, sponsors, and attendees who are ready to show up for each other and themselves.

EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY OF WOMEN

Forsyth Woman has brought together a group of powerhouse ladies from our community—from those in business, to owners and entrepreneurs, for a day full of impactful presentations, networking, shopping, food & drinks, and much more.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY

“Forsyth Woman is thrilled to be hosting this conference again this year! We feel it perfectly aligns with our mission of celebrating women,” said Brooke Eagle, Publisher of Forsyth Woman Magazine. “Seeing this conference bring our column to life was so amazing last year! The empowerment, love, support, kindness, and good vibes that were felt throughout the entire day were absolutely beautiful. I was honored by the feedback we received from attendees for literally weeks afterward and can’t wait to serve the women in our community again this year!”

A CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE DESIGNED WITH YOU IN MIND

If you attended the inaugural conference last year, then you got a taste of what a delicious event this is, but trust us…2023 is going to be taking it up a notch!

This event has been created for women of all ages and all walks of life. Attendees do not need to be a business owner or in any specific niche for this event to make an impact! Brooke shared that, “Each and every one of our speakers were strategically and thoughtfully chosen to ensure every woman gets so much out of this experience! We want you to come as you are and know you are exactly where you need to be!”

Leadership Conference

The Women on the Move Leadership Conference is going to kick your week off right when you arrive on Monday morning to a room filled with women as hungry for a purposeful and passion-filled life as you are. Be Kind Coffee will be ready to greet you with your morning caffeine fix so you can jump into the day!

Local vendors will be joining throughout the day for photo ops, an afternoon cocktail hour featuring Thirsty Buffalo and of course, in true Forsyth Magazines fashion, opportunities to shop and support local retail businesses!

Lunch will be catered and offer a plethora of snacks and beverages to give you energy throughout the day. Attendees can look forward to receiving swag bags filled with products and special discounts from all sorts of local businesses as well as the chance to win one of several door prizes announced throughout the day.

This isn’t a sit in your seat and take notes kind of conference! In between our standout speaker presentations, there will be opportunities for community building with two of our 2022 speakers, Jordan Gomez of the Body Confident Blueprint and Taryn Jerez of One Crafty Miss; leading us in an intentional group networking activity to get attendees more deeply connected.

WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU THERE

Whether you come with a group or decide to venture alone, there is a room of women ready to welcome you. The Women on the Move Leadership Conference is the experience you’ve been waiting for, and it won’t be the same without you! Forysth Woman has every expectation that tickets will sell out before the event date; therefore, it’s highly encouraged to register and get your ticket in advance. To keep up with all the latest conference announcements and behind the scenes looks, be sure to follow @ForsythMags on Facebook and Instagram pages as the event gets closer!

If you are interested in purchasing a table or have any questionsabout the event, please email conference coordinator and Publisher of Forsyth Magazine, Brooke Eagle at brooke@forsythmags.com

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS AT: tinyurl.com/WOMConference

THIS YEAR’S LOCAL LEADERS SHARING THE STAGE

PRESENTED BY:

THE 10 TRUTHS…. AND SOMETIMES THE TRUTH HURTS

Emily Davis Owner of Fleet Feet Winston-Salem & Clemmons, Co-founder of Mission: Feet First fleetfeet.com @fleetfeetws

WEALTH ACTIVATION & STRATEGIES TO TAP INTO YOUR HIGHEST POTENTIAL

Kay Hillman, Owner of Becoming CEO mrskayh.com @becomingceo

BOUNDARIES: EMBRACING & EMPOWERING

Mary Beth Ivester, Owner of Ivester Homes, LLC marybethivester.com @marybethivester

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & MENTAL HEALTH

Alexia Mitchell, MSW, LCSWA, Owner of Reset and Heal Consulting

Women in Philanthropy: THE NEXT 100 YEARS OF IMPACT IN FORSYTH COUNTY

Antonia Monk Richburg, Ph.D., President & CEO at United Way of Forsyth County forsythunitedway.org @uwforsyth

EAT THIS, NOT THAT LEVEL UP YOUR NUTRITION TO RECLAIM YOUR HEALTH

Alice Smith, MS, RD, LDN, CHC, Owner of Alice Approved aliceapproved.com @alice_approved

kitchentune•up®

Brightening the Heart of Your Home!

by MARTIE EMORY

If you’re already a client of Kitchen Tune-Up in Clemmons, you’re familiar with their catch phrase “Tunified” – and you know it’s a supreme compliment. And, if not, prepare to be amazed by what this talented, conscientious team can accomplish in a very short time, to make you love your kitchen again!

Through their first-class service, the most experienced professionals, and an outstanding selection of products, homeowners can easily –and efficiently – add value to their homes with the help of, yes, you guessed it, the “Tunifiers!”

Kitchen cabinets are the company’s core service – and that sharp focus makes them experts at every possible stage of updating. After your free in-home or virtual consultation, the Kitchen Tune-Up team launches their mission to provide you with an elevated remodeling experience. Owners Peter and Rebecca Mahoney take great pride in their work and their team, with a dedicated emphasis on customer service that includes listening, communication, respect, dependability and finding costeffective solutions.

In case you’re pondering trends, never overlook classic white. Peter says white shaker doors are still found in 99% of his team’s jobs.

“Even if style changes, a white cabinet door isn’t going out of style!” he adds.

When it comes to what direction to take with your own kitchen, the Kitchen TuneUp professionals offer five main services:

THE ONE-DAY TUNE UP: Ideal when you are selling a home, the process restores existing wood cabinets by removing dirt and grease that build up over time and restoring the finish in those common problem areas. This service can typically be done for less than $2,000.

CABINET PAINTING: Painting your cabinets a new, stylish color, and even changing out the hardware for an updated look, can make a huge difference. Painting cabinets is the most affordable way to update your kitchen if everything else about the room is still in good shape.

CABINET RE-DOORING: This process calls for replacing the doors and drawer fronts, as well as their hinges, and adding new, more stylish drawer pulls and door knobs.

CABINET REFACING: Installing new cabinet doors and drawer fronts is how the refacing process begins, then your existing cabinet “boxes” are covered with a veneer to match the newest additions.

CUSTOM CABINETS: Embracing the idea of ordering your own custom cabinets is exciting and can create a new, fresh look, or update the entire layout of your current kitchen. You can design your dream kitchen from top to bottom, with the company’s Virtual Kitchen Design Tool.

While cabinet painting is typically a five-day job (and falls in the range of $4,000$6,000), Peter explains the importance of the company’s use of a high-end professional sprayer and only the highest-quality Sherwin Williams paint. Cabinet door fronts are removed and taken to Kitchen Tune-Up’s climate controlled environment for the process to ensure the best finished product. Customers always appreciate the attention to detail, and the beautiful finishing touch to their kitchen that’s well worth its cost.

Kitchen Tune-Up is based in Clemmons, and serves the Winston-Salem, High Point and Greensboro areas, including Advance, Belews Creek, Clemmons, Colfax, Kernersville, Lewisville, Lexington, Oak Ridge, Pfafftown, Rural Hall, Stokesdale and Walkertown. Contact them at 336.970.3419, or e-mail Peter at PMahoney@KitchenTuneUp.com. Hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., and Saturday by appointment. Visit Kitchen Tune-Up online at KitchenTuneUp.com/winston-salem-nc.

Before After

Helping Athletes Set GOALS and Achieve Them

Athlete

aspirations can vary from making a team and increasing playing time to playing at the collegiate level. Regardless, the importance of sports performance training is a key component to any athlete’s success in reaching those goals, and that is where RISE Sports Performance plays a role.

RISE Sports Performance (RSP) is based in Davie County and resides inside of the 120,000+ square foot RISE Indoor Sports facility. Offering specialized training for athletes of all ages, RSP Directors Caleb Mathis and John Lucchesi know what is needed to help athletes define their goals and then develop a plan that gets them there.

Lucchesi was born and raised in Johnson City, Tennessee and attended East Tennessee State University where he played soccer and studied exercise science. His experience includes working with athletes both in the weight room and on the field, serving as both a trainer and coach. After serving as the Captain of NC Fusion’s U23 soccer team, his career led him to North Carolina where he has been a part of the RISE team since its opening in May of 2021. Mathis was raised in Mocksville and graduated from Davie High School in 2013. He attended the University of North Carolina at Wilmington on a track and field scholarship where he competed in the decathlon, 110m hurdles, long jump and triple jump. After graduation, he began his career as the Director of Speed and Agility for a private sports training facility from 2018-2021. In 2021, Mathis officially joined RISE Indoor Sports.

Lucchesi and Mathis lead programs to help athletes get faster and stronger, with the main goal of building athletes who are the best at their sport and ready to perform on game day. Through a combination of speed, strength and youth development programming, their focus is on establishing a strong foundation that leads to athletic development and success. In addition, Lucchesi and Mathis

offer programming for adults looking to stay in shape, work towards specific goals and serve as an accountability partner. To learn more about programming available through RISE Sports Performance and Fitness, visit RiseIndoorSports.com/risesports-performance.

ABOUT RISE INDOOR SPORTS:

RISE is located at 419 Twins Way in Bermuda Run. The facility has more than 123,000 square feet of regulation courts, fields and amenities making it one of the largest and most accessible indoor sports complexes in the southeast. Designed with the primary goal of building stronger, healthier communities through sport, fitness and health programs, the facility is versatile enough to serve everyone from the general public to elite athletes including local sports and fitness programs to large-scale tournaments. To learn more about RISE, visit them online at RiseIndoorSports.com.

FACILITY AMENITIES:

• 8 high school regulation basketball courts

•

• 28,000 square feet of sports indoor turf

• 8,300 square feet dedicated to RISE Sports Performance

• 6,000 square feet Cardio Fitness Center offering memberships to the public

• 2,500 square feet for Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

• Space available for hosting corporate/ group events

by MARTIE EMORY

AKarin Head Realty Company

When one of the amazing agents from Head Realty Group, EXP Realty, in Winston-Salem, vows to be your Realtor for life, you can rest assured he or she means just that! Karin Head and her incredible team take their role in clients’ lives very seriously, offering a conciergestyle level of dedication to all of your real estate needs.

That includes sharing the best professional advice, in a time when news headlines and an overload of information can be confusing.

“If we listened to media sources, the sky would truly be falling, and slamming right on top of housing,” explains Karin. “That’s why it’s a super great time to buy and sell!”

Always up-to-date on trends and current industry demands, she offers these wise tips for navigating the market and finding the perfect place your family is meant to enjoy for years to come!

Top Five Reasons to Get Moving

1. Housing inventory is definitely on the rise in our area.

2. New construction is booming in the Triad and in North Carolina in general.

3. Interest rates are rising, which causes listing prices to correct, thus bringing back a more stable market.

4. Lenders, vendors and attorneys are working with buyers to refinance later.

5. There are so many options for buyers and sellers, it’s the right time to call one of their agents to put together a solid game plan!

And, when it comes to winning the real estate game in any market, follow these true words of wisdom from Karin and her team, whose expertise is exactly the advantage you need.

1Hire an expert with extensive knowledge, well-cultivated relationships in the industry and years of firsthand experience.

2

Do your homework, and ask questions! See Karin’s list of vital questions to ask your agent at Headrealtygroup.com.

3

If you’re thinking of selling your home, research a prospective agent online to check out their marketing strategies. Do they market their properties well, or do they tend to focus on spotlighting themselves? Work to have every aspect of your property market or show ready. This isn’t the market of 2021 and 2022!

4

Tackle any necessary improvements before listing your home. Research shows homeowners who remodel and update sell their properties, on average, 30% faster. Certain upgrades do tend to make a home sell faster: think repainting kitchen cabinets, remodeling the bathroom shower and refreshing your kitchen backsplash.

5

If you’re in the market to buy, ask a prospective agent how they negotiate, who their backup or team is and organize details of the full process and your game plan together. Get out there and win the housing game!

Head Realty Group, EXP Realty, is located at 380 Knollwood Street, Suite M, in Winston-Salem. Contact Karin at Karin@KarinHead.com, or call the office at 336.283.8687. Be sure to like Karin Head, EXP Realty on Facebook, and follow her on Instagram @karinheadexp. Specializing in Residential. Luxury. Commercial.

Moving from Hot Mess to God’s Best in 2023

by LESLIE SPEAS

Are you a hot mess? Or, maybe just a warm one? Let’s just go ahead and admit that we all have our messy moments. For me (and I think for many of us), it’s mostly things that originate in my mind that contribute to my mess. Comparison, guilt, fear, rejection, people-pleasing and materialism to name a few.

Are we born with mess? I don’t think so. In my opinion, we accumulate it as we walk through life, a little more each day. Our earthly disappointments and experiences impact who we become. We try to protect ourselves out of fear and shame, and this limits our potential. We try to avoid rejection. We try to find our worth by pleasing others. We try to achieve success according to the world’s standards. If we don’t work to declutter our mess, it will hold us back from doing what we were meant to do and being who we were meant to be.

To make matters worse, our minds tend to go to negative thoughts. Paul says, “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).

Paul mentioned strongholds. What are strongholds? Dictionary.com defines a stronghold as a place where a particular cause or belief is strongly defended or upheld. In short, it is a mindset or attitude that, in most cases, contributes to our mess. There are many strongholds that we may experience including issues like those I mentioned earlier.

So, how can we overcome our negative strongholds and move towards God’s best for our lives as we enter the new year? Consider the following tips:

1.

Foster awareness and acknowledgment of your strongholds

As with any issue we may face, the first step to recovery is awareness and acknowledgment of the problem, and a desire to truly change. Ask God to show you your strongholds and the resulting negative thought patterns that exist in your life. Once you are conscious of these negative mindsets, you can begin to take action to overcome them.

Fill your mind with good stuff and take out the

The Apostle Paul challenges us to “not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds” (Romans 12:1-2). We can do that through a steady intake of God’s Word. Think about the things that you are filling your mind with – television, social media, the news, books, etc. Have you ever heard the term garbage in garbage out? If you fill your mind with garbage, the result will be garbage. Instead, fill your mind with positive thoughts and love.

Be grateful

Humans are wired to focus on the negative. This bias is hardwired into our human nature and is designed to protect us. What is the remedy? Shifting your mind towards gratitude for what you have. Keeping a gratitude journal and recording at least three things that you are grateful can be helpful in practicing gratitude.

In conclusion, we are human and, since the dawn of our existence, have been prone to accumulate mess. However, if we nurture our relationships with God and actively work to demolish any negative strongholds that we have amassed, we can begin to realize our God-given potential and live unencumbered lives.

Lessons from a Wood Pile

by DAMIAN DESMOND

I watched the man pick up a large log and lay it across these contraptions called “sawhorses” – something he had made out of scrap wood. I studied every move he made, in awe of things I’d never seen before. He explained to me that what we would be doing, would later heat our home. I still didn’t really comprehend what he was saying. For the previous six years of my life, I had lived with my grandparents in upstate New York where a furnace in the basement kept us warm. After that, I lived with my abusive parents in an apartment complex. I don’t know how we got our heat there. But now, I found myself with a couple who had adopted me and lived in a house in the woods that didn’t have a basement. No basement, no furnace. What it did have was a black iron contraption in the kitchen. There was a pipe that led from it into the wall. I would later learn how important it was in keeping us warm during the cold western Virginia winters.

The man with piercing blue eyes produced a bow saw. He instructed me on how to hold the end of the saw while he held the other. Together, we placed the serrated blade of the saw about 12 to 15 inches from the end of the log in the saw horse. Then, we worked together to push and pull the saw back and forth as the blade sunk deeper and deeper into the wood and sawdust fell like snow to the ground. Over and over again, we cut piece by piece from log after log. When a pile of wood had accumulated beneath the saw horse, we worked together to neatly stack it. Over weeks and months, the woodpile became larger and larger. When the nights became colder, we brought armfuls of wood into the kitchen. There, using old newspapers and kindling, we started a fire in that old wood stove. Slowly, the flames became hotter and brighter. Piece by piece, we added wood until there was a blazing fire within. The stove began to emanate a warmth that filled the room and, eventually, the rest of the house. There was something so comforting about sitting in that small kitchen, listening to the crackling fire within that wood stove and feeling its wonderful heat. Perhaps it was knowing I was safe and part of a loving family again. Perhaps it was knowing that I had helped contribute to the warmth in the home. Over the years, I grew to where I could cut the wood on my own. I learned how to neatly stack a wood pile, so it was pleasing to the eye and so the wood would cure properly. I learned many lessons from something as simple as cutting and stacking wood. I learned how cutting wood keeps one warm not once, but twice. You work up a sweat while pushing the saw back and forth. Your heart rate increases while you stack the wood. And, you’re warmed once again as you sit by the wood stove emanating heat from the wood you spent hours and hours cutting and stacking. But, most of all, I learned that there are good people on this earth who I could trust once again. People who truly loved me and taught me that hard work is something of which to be proud. Hard work is something that builds character and teaches lifelong lessons. The wood piles we spend time building in our lives will benefit us in the long run. I’m forever grateful for the lessons learned from something as simple yet as important as…the woodpile.

I looked up at this new man in my life like he was crazy. He wore an Irish style hat upon his head. His red beard covered most of his face. I’d never been around anyone with a beard up until this point. My grandfather shaved every morning. My uncle did the same. Even my real father never grew a beard. So now, I found myself with a man who didn’t shave at all. Funny how the paths in our lives sometimes take us to unexpected places.

DIY Old School Birthday Ideas for

by TARYN JEREZ

We’ve all seen them, or maybe we’ve even hosted them for our own children…perfectly themed, color coordinated, over the top beautiful birthday parties with fancy favors to boot. Some people blame Pinterest and Instagram culture while others think there’s absolutely nothing wrong with going all out to celebrate your child’s yearly milestone.

No matter which side you fall on, this is a reminder that for the years where you’re looking at going a simpler route to celebrate, it’s more than ok. Kids don’t need fancy parties or elaborate activities to feel celebrated and make birthday memories. Here are a few old school party ideas from our parents’ and grandparents’ book.

Pizza Party & Play Games

If you ask most adults today about their birthday parties growing up, you’ll hear the word “pizza” thrown about more than any other word. There’s a reason “pizza party” is an infamous term in America! Whether you order a few pizzas from your local pizzeria or decide to do the DIY route where each child makes their own, kids will eat it up. Consider cutting the slices into sixteenths to make it easier for sharing and trying different topping assortments. Get some age-appropriate board games to play, or bring out a few old school party games like pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, telephone or charades. Gather everyone into the living room or back porch for the special boy or girl’s celebration and have fun.

Summer Waterplay & A Picnic Lunch

I can still remember the unforgettable feeling of an expertly thrown water balloon splashing against my back in the heat of summer and hearing my sister laughing behind me. Summer birthday parties have a whole other option on the table; waterplay parties! This could be as low key as turning on the sprinkler for party guests or meeting up at the community pool. Grab a few plastic water guns or water balloons from the Dollar Tree, and you’re ready for a day of play. Make food options available outside to avoid dripping wet children in the house by hosting a picnic lunch. Throw a few blankets down on the lawn, and serve sandwiches or hotdogs with chips. Don’t forget to invite everyone to bring their swimsuits and a towel!

Ice Cream Sundaes & A Sleepover

“You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream!” If your youngster is at the age where a sleepover is on the list of party options, embrace it for a simple night at home with a few classmates or just their best friend. Have them celebrate their birthday with their favorite ice cream flavor or two, grab a few tasty toppings like whipped cream, M&Ms, hot fudge and cookie dough bites. You can even have them make it a contest by who can create the most delicious looking ice cream sundae and vote for the winner. Simple and scrumptious!

Scavenger Hunts

Children of the 80s and 90s are no stranger to a good old fashioned scavenger hunt. Create a list of items to find, or create clues to help partygoers discover what’s on their list as they compete against one another to cross everything off their list first. The hunt can be a team activity or every child for themself! This is an old time fan favorite for many reasons, but as a parent myself, I look back and wonder if my own mother pulled this activity out more than a few times because of how great it was at keeping kids occupied for a decent length of time. Perhaps it’s just a convenient bonus?

Birthday Cake and Presents

Let’s be honest, at the end of the day, these are the two things that kids look forward to the most when it comes to birthday parties! If hosting a long party with planned activities isn’t your cup of tea as a parent, guess what? There are no rules. Instead, invite a few of your kids’ friends or family members over for cake and presents for an hour or two, and watch your child have the best birthday. The memories they’ll make spending time with the people they love most and getting excited about being another year older will make it as special as it gets!

Be a

At Victory Junction, we believe that every child, no matter their diagnosis, should be able to just be a kid, That’s why we provide fully accessible year-round programming in a medically safe environment for children with serious illnesses and medical conditions, all at no cost to their families.

Victory Junction campers experience great adventure, often achieving things they never thought were possible. They make friends and find belonging in a community that fosters independence, inspires confidence, and helps them to build resilience.

Do you know a child living with a complex medical condition who is ready to experience all the fun, laughter, and joy of camp?

Applications for our spring and summer programs are now open!

Learn more and apply today at victoryjunction.org/camperzone.

-Victory Junction Camper

Kyla Sapp

Mrs. North Carolina American 2022

Raising AWARENESS of Pregnancy Loss & Postpartum Depression

by CAROLYN S PETERSON

Youtruly never know when an opportunity will come your way and you will be able to share your experiences in life to help others. Bad things happen to all of us, but to be able to take a devastating time in life and reach others who may be going through the same thing can be hard, but very rewarding. Kyla Sapp, Mrs. North Carolina American 2022, is using her current platform to speak to women who have experienced infertility, pregnancy loss or postpartum depression letting them know they are not alone.

WHEN DREAMS BECOME REALITY

Kyla Sapp, a native of Versailles, Indiana, began competing in pageants in 2006 in the National American Miss system. Eventually, Kyla would be a contestant in several pageants over the years, including the Miss America Organization in 2015-2016. Once Kyla and her husband, Spencer,

moved to Kernersville, she was thinking about getting back into pageantry to help introduce her to other women who were in a similar phase of life –married, full time job, with or without children, who love the sisterhood that develops in pageantry.

“After finding excuses for more than three years to not get back into pageantry, one day, I went to Mackenzie Jade’s, a prom dress and pageant dress store in Concord. It was one month out from the Mrs. North Carolina pageant, and needless to say, I walked out with everything I needed to compete. The next day, I signed up and paid my fees. From there, it was just like riding a bike. I really got back into the groove of practicing my walk, poses and working with a pageant coach for interviews and onstage questions. I felt the importance of being my most authentic self, knowing one day, my daughter might ask me about being in pageants. I bore my soul to the judges and went on to share my story on stage, moving on to compete for Mrs. American last August. At Nationals, I competed with women from across the country and was humbled to make it into the Top Six, with my roommate and close friend, Mrs. South Carolina American, Krisdee Clark, crowned the winner. With the platform I have for the year, I want to share my personal story of surviving pregnancy loss and postpartum depression,” said Kyla.

AN UNIMAGINABLE GRIEF

In March 2020, Kyla and her husband found out that she was pregnant, only to learn during an exam that there was no detectable heartbeat a month later. “The loss of my pregnancy was an unimaginable and different kind of grief. We were grieving something that we felt we never really had in the first place. It soon became a grieving of the pregnancy milestones that we would never have and the birth and the first steps our baby would never take. I needed to withdraw from family and friends to begin to make my way through my grief. Many women, including myself, feel like their body failed them; there’s a shame and guilt that women often have after the loss of a pregnancy. A few short months later, we found out we were pregnant again, and I felt the entire nine months that my body, which was supposed to be a safe place for a baby, wasn’t safe, and I remember wishing the pregnancy would go by as fast as possible so I could have my baby in my arms,” Kyla commented.

Kyla and Spencer now have an 18-month-old daughter, yet her loss still holds a place in her heart and mind.

“There’s isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t wonder who our baby would’ve been. I still wish I could hold him or her, stroke their hair, and tell them how much I love them. I still grieve that loss with every milestone our daughter hits. I know other women and couples aren’t so lucky and can experience more than one pregnancy loss. It’s important to me to make sure that other women know they are not alone. I’m in talks to partner with an organization, the Missing GRACE Foundation, out of Minnesota, as well as a similar nonprofit in Texas, where both of these associations offer support to women who’ve experienced infertility, pregnancy loss and postpartum depression,” stated Kyla.

THE HAPPIEST TIME OF LIFE TO THE DEPTHS OF DEPRESSION

Not only did Kyla experience pregnancy loss, she survived postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter and it nearly took her life.

“Many women lose their life to postpartum depression, and there’s a stigma, as well as a lack of resources surrounding it, much like pregnancy loss. I plan to partner with the NC Chapter of Postpartum Support International and am currently connecting with medical professionals to make sure there are ample resources for women struggling to overcome the grief associated with pregnancy loss and to survive postpartum depression. Most women are afraid to ask for help, or they don’t know where to turn. But, there are support groups and resources to help pull women out of those dark places and get them back to being the best versions of themselves,” Kyla said.

Kyla hopes to continue sharing her story with other women letting them know it’s okay to ask for help.

“Personally, I feel that even though it’s sometimes difficult to talk to other people about, in my heart it does my baby a disservice not to share my story,” commented Kyla. “And, when I do, I just picture him or her up above, looking down, beaming with pride saying ‘That’s my mom!’”

Candlelight Walk Raises Awareness of Teen Mental Health

by CAROLYN S. PETERSON

American teenagers have undergone drastic changes in recent years. Three decades ago, the gravest public health threats to teens in the United States came from binge drinking, drunken driving, teenage pregnancy and smoking. There was the “Just Say No” campaign to address drug usage and the establishment of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, MADD, focused on drinking and driving, each taking on the concerns of the day for teenagers. These issues have drastically fallen, replaced by a new public health concern for teens: soaring rates of mental health disorders including anxiety, depression and suicide.

To raise awareness, one local teenager, Abbie Merhoff, organized the First Annual Stroll Into Light Candlelight Walk which was held on Sunday, November 13, 2022 at Mt. Tabor High School in Winston-Salem.

“I saw friends and those close to me, especially during and post Covid, were isolated, with little social interaction, so anxiety and depression were issues they were struggling with; yet no one wanted to talk about either until a tragedy occurs, and then we all discuss suicide and what could’ve been done. A Stroll Into Light was a recognition that each person is fighting his or her own battle each and every day, whether that be anxiety or depression, or any mental health related issue; no one person should feel alone in their situation,” said Abbie. To that end, Abbie worked with local businesses and got sponsors for the event.

“We were so fortunate to get great support from the community. Teen mental health is a topic that everyone wants to do something proactive about, but they just don’t know what to do or how to get the message out that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Teenagers can be obsessed with social media and making their life and relationships seem perfect, that family and friends may not even know there’s anxiety, depression or worse going on. Or they can get caught up in school and extracurricular activities that they wear themselves out, which can lead to mental health issues. As a community, we must support each other and be advocates for peoples’ stories to be shared. Our presenting sponsors for Stroll Into Light included FitNut, Fleet Feet, Handy & Handy

Orthodontics, Merhoff & Associates, and Performance Driven PT. Gold sponsors included Pottery by Maddie Bea, Mt. Tabor Cross Country, Wood & Hogan Consulting, F45, Two Cities Church, Drs. Shehan, Smith and Russell Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, and Mutch Love for Kim, as well as a host of other sponsors. I am so humbled by the outstanding support of all of the sponsors. Everyone we talked to was so welcoming to helping raise awareness. So much so, we raised more than $15,000 for local organizations in the Winston-Salem community and organizations across the United States. The national organizations include The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and love heals, a nonprofit organization that offers compassionate comfort for those affected by suicide or mental health illness and pain,” Abbie commented.

Whether you are a teenager or an adult, there is often a negative stigma associated with the topic of mental health, but especially for teens. People will say, “what do you have to be depressed about at your age?” or “stop thinking negatively…snap out of it!” These views by others prevent adolescents from coming forward to their family, friends or medical health professionals to seek the help they need.

“This first Stroll Into Light, we really didn’t know what to expect. We had about 300 gather, carrying a candle, walking side by side, in the spirit of hope, to honor a friend or a family member lost to mental illness. It was a time of reflection on lives that were lost and a promise to help others dealing with mental health issues. I really hope that in the years to come, Stroll Into Light will grow in size, continuing to raise awareness for teen mental health and that it will become part of other communities,” stated Abbie.

For more information, drone footage and pictures from Stroll Into Light, please visit Abbie’s personal Instagram @abbie.merhoff.

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The Overwhelming Cost of Childcare

& How Smart Start of Forsyth County is Helping Families

Did you know that more than half of parents are more concerned about childcare costs today than before the pandemic? According to www.care. com’s 2022 Cost of Care Survey, many parents face a significant uphill battle when it comes to being able to afford quality childcare. While childcare costs have been a concern long before the pandemic, the 2020 COVID pandemic created new issues around childcare that are having a major post-pandemic impact on families and the childcare industry.

Since the pandemic, over 8,000 daycare centers have closed in the country, with 28 percent of childcare centers and home facilities closing here in Forsyth County. Along with a reduction of centers/ facilities available, the cost of quality childcare has increased drastically, creating yet another hardship for middle-income families.

THE 2022 COST OF CARE SURVEY ALSO REVEALED:

• The cost of childcare is higher for families in 2022. 51% of parents say they spend more than 20% of their household income on childcare, and 72% of parents report spending 10% or more.

• Quality childcare continues to be tough for parents to find. In fact, 43% of parents say it’s much harder to find childcare over the past year.

• Parents continue to struggle to pay for childcare. In fact, 59% are more concerned about childcare costs now than in years prior, which is driving significant changes, such as taking on a second job (31%), reducing hours at work (26%), changing jobs (25%), and leaving the workforce entirely (21%), to foot the bill.

BY E’LAINA BARRON

by E’LAINA BARRON

SO HOW MUCH ARE WE TALKING & WHAT’S AFFORDABLE?

We talk about childcare costs being expensive, but just how expensive are they really? Most recently, data shows that since the pandemic, the average weekly cost for daycare centers is $226, and $221 for a family/home center. This brings average monthly costs for one child to roughly $1,017, and $2,034 for two children. For many, this cost is comparable to and sometimes exceeds their monthly rent/mortgage payments. Childcare is considered affordable if it costs families no more than 7% of their household income, which, as the survey showed, is only about 28% of families. That would mean that quality childcare is unavailable for approximately 72% of families.

HOW SMART START IS HELPING FAMILIES

Smart Start of Forsyth County is working to help families that are struggling with accessing and affording childcare, through our Family Childcare Scholarships Program. The ongoing Family Childcare Scholarship Program provides childcare scholarships to qualifying families residing in Forsyth County.

Each year we serve 300-400 children with scholarships for childcare. We served 311 children in 2019-20, 394 children in 2020-21, and so far in 2022-23 we are serving 311 children. And in addition to the regular scholarship program, we receive about $20K in funding for our Emergency Assistance Program, which serves families that have had an emergency and need temporary assistance quickly.

Eligibility for the scholarships is based on income guidelines identical to the Forsyth

There are a few parent requirements:

• Working 25 hours per week,

• Attending school full-time, or

• A combination of working and attending school for a total of 25 hours per week.

Family engagement is also promoted through the Family Childcare Scholarship Program. Our team is prepared to promote healthy relationships between childcare providers, families, and their children by establishing positive and goal-oriented relationships to ensure family well- being.

Please know that we do STILL have scholarships available and would be happy to discuss how we can be of service to you or your family. Please visit our website at www.SmartStart-FC.org for more information.

For more information on how you and your family can benefit from some of the services here at Smart Start, visit our website at www.SmartStart-FC.org or visit our office at 7820 North Point Boulevard, Suite 200, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27106

County Department of Social Services. Childcare scholarships are available for children from birth through the start of kindergarten.

ALL Types of BOWLS

by CASEY CHEEK, alltypesofbowls.com

Hi! I’m Casey, a part-time food blogger, full-time architect, wife and dog mom. On All Types Of Bowls, you’ll find healthy inspiration for making your favorite cravings and comfort foods. I believe we should eat all our cravings, whether it’s a leafy grain bowl or a big bowl of pasta.

WHOLE 30 SHEPHERD’S PIE

(Whole 30 / Paleo / Dairy Free / Gluten Free)

Serves 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

INGREDIENTS

16 oz ground chicken 1 tbsp + 1 tbsp avocado oil

3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 ½ tbsp coconut oil ¼ - 1/3 cup unsweetened plain almond milk

2 cloves garlic, minced 1 medium onion, diced 2 large carrots, diced ½ cup frozen peas

½ cup brussel sprouts, shredded

2 tbsp tomato paste 1/3 cup chicken broth 1 tbsp + 1 tsp salt and pepper

Pinch red pepper flakes 1 tbsp thyme ½ tbsp sage ½ tbsp rosemary

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375º F.

2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and cook until soft (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the sweet potatoes and add them back into the pot. Add in the coconut oil, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Mash them and then stir in the almond milk. The potatoes should be smooth and creamy.

3. Heat a skillet and add 1 tbsp of avocado oil. Cook the ground chicken until brown and then remove from skillet and set aside for later.

4. Heat the rest of the avocado oil and add the garlic, onions, carrots, peas and shredded Brussels sprouts. Cook for 5 minutes and then add in salt, pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, thyme, rosemary and sage. Cook for another 5 minutes until soft.

5. Add the ground chicken back in, and stir in the tomato paste. Cook until the tomato paste turns dark red and is incorporated. Add in the chicken broth and stir. Top with the mashed sweet potatoes and use a fork to make lines across the top of the shepherd’s pie. This will make ridges and get nice and crusted.

6. Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool once done and serve with more thyme.

We Our Volunteers

Getting Creative:

How Hands-on Projects Engage Student Learning

by PRISCILLA ST. JOHN

Problem-solving. Critical thinking. Public speaking.

Teamwork. When students and teachers tap into their creativity and delve into experiential learning, they not only learn the subjects they study, but develop key skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

At Forsyth Country Day School, projects are woven into the educational experience from preschool through twelfth grade to enrich the learning experience at all levels.

LOWER SCHOOL

Kindergarten students recently learned about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for a Balloons Over Broadway project. They researched the parade and its famous balloons, studying how they are made. Then, they set out to create their own balloons. The design process started with drawing 2D models of the balloons they wanted to create. After that, they had to figure out how to turn their 2D design into a 3D balloon that would survive the fun class parade that served as a grand finale to the project.

“I think it was really engaging,” says kindergarten teacher Allison Blamer. “They were all invested and it really made them feel like they had a part in their learning because they had choice and voice,” she says. It was especially effective at helping kindergarteners learn critical thinking skills, because not every balloon design worked out the first time. “They learn problem-solving skills through what we call ‘productive struggle’,” she says. “You can see when a child finally ‘gets it’. It’s so rewarding for them!”

In second grade, students learned about themselves and their classmates through the Culture Showcase. “We talk a lot about belonging at FCDS, and it is important for students to understand that although we have different experiences, backgrounds, and beliefs, we all belong and are a part of our amazing FCDS community,” says second-grade teacher Abby Hoffman.

Second grader Harrison liked the teamwork aspect of the project. “One of my favorite parts about the culture project was getting paired to work with a friend,” he says. “In the library, we worked on the computer with our friend to look up pictures of our favorite things. Once we did that, we created a book about ourselves.”

The book, called “The Best Part of Me”, was packed in a Culture Carry-on Suitcase that contained representations of everything that makes each student uniquely themselves – from beloved family recipes to favorite animals and traditions. “We made a suitcase out of a box!” says Johnny. “We kept a lot of things in our suitcase. Three of the things were a book that we made, a paper we made in art with clothing that we wear, and ‘The Best Part of Me’ writing.”

At the conclusion of the projects, families were invited to join the students and “travel” the room. This was Mia’s favorite part. “Everyone had a paper that was like a passport. We pretended we were traveling, and when we gave our presentations, grown-ups gave us stamps. Families came to our table to learn about our cultures,” she says.

The project was a fun experience that taught students and parents in the process. “The best part of experiential learning is seeing the students take ownership of their learning,” Ms. Hoffman said. “Students got to be creative and are proud to share their projects with classmates and families!”

MIDDLE SCHOOL

In middle school, projects get more complex as students mature. In William Fusek’s sixth-grade geography class, recent hands-on learning opportunities have included creating a unique kingdom and making a PowerPoint travel brochure about a South American country that would entice tourists to visit.

These projects offer something for all different kinds of learners. “About 75 percent of the students liked the kingdom project more because it was more handson,” Mr. Fusek says. “The other 25 percent liked the PowerPoint project because it involved computers.”

In addition, some students prefer learning via projects because they are less stressful than tests. “With a test, you could just memorize the material but not necessarily master it,” he says. “In a project, students are able to demonstrate mastery in a hands-on, creative way.”

In Jasmine Vadgama’s seventh grade Sustainable Cities class (which was inspired by the Future City STEM competition), students spent several months researching sustainable cities and ways to make urban centers more eco-friendly, then designing and creating their own futuristic cities based on what they’ve learned. They write research papers, perform skits, and then showcase a display of their metropolis on a trifold or as a model.

One particularly passionate group – Ariana, Livie, and Kaylie – created a 3D model with working lights of their island city of New Kora. The city uses water from a desalination plant, centralized living, vertical greenhouses, and a monorail, to name only a few features. “We wanted it to feel futuristic - like something no one had ever created before,” Ariana says.

“It’s phenomenal what these girls created in the amount of time they had,” Ms. Vadgama says, and this kind of hands-on learning clearly resonated with the students.

says.

Kaylie agrees. “I think that projects help you learn things better than just reading about it. You get to apply your knowledge.”

“Projects are helpful,” Livie

“You get to be creative with it.”

UPPER SCHOOL

FCDS’s Upper School is known for rigorous academics and the quality of the student experience. Hands-on learning enhances this, helping students hone the skills they need as they prepare for college and what’s ahead.

In Grace Mason’s Ancient and Medieval History class, students studying ancient Greece held a mock dinner party to better understand ancient philosophy. After reading about the philosophers’ lives and schools of thought, students broke into groups to write scripts for a dinner party. Each student played a different ancient philosopher and acted out how their character would have responded to modern problems such as global warming, space exploration, or food insecurity.

“Students then acted out their dinner parties in class – they were allowed to dress up, bring in food, and really get into character to make it fun,” Mrs. Mason says. “In the end, students got to learn about each of their ideas in more depth than just recalling random names associated with ideas as they would have on a test.”

Dr. Ashton Trawinski applied the same experiential bent to a recent cellular biology unit. She had students choose one of the three major areas of the cells, then create a webpage or blog that would teach other students about the topic and give fun, engaging assignments to help other learners. “First they had to spend time understanding the material themselves, then consider, ‘How do I break this down so someone else can understand what I know?’. They engaged with the content more this way than simply asking them to memorize a list of steps or definitions.”

Forsyth Country Day School is well suited to this kind of hands-on learning, Dr. Trawinski says.

“We have the flexibility to step away from the checklist of ‘we must cover all this content’ and really focus on which content can help them build skills focused on scientific reasoning and critical thinking,” she says. “These projects all take time, both in and out of the classroom, more time than a typical closed-book test would take. This requires focusing on which content really supports those scientific and academic skills that we value.”

If your child would thrive in a creative and engaging learning environment, we encourage you to visit our campus and see our students in action. Schedule your tour by visiting FCDS.org/admission or by calling 336-946-1633.

Watch this video to see cool things our students are learning.

OVERCOMING

Iknow we would like to think that we don’t, but we all have biases. These biases have been developed from sources such as the media, our education, our work experiences, our upbringing, our family and our friends. So, exactly what is bias? It is defined as prejudice in favor of or against a thing, person or group compared with another – usually in a way that is considered to be unfair.

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF BIASES:

1. Conscious (Explicit) Bias - Overt, negative behavior that can be expressed through physical or verbal harassment or by more subtle means such as exclusion.

2. Unconscious (Implicit) Bias - Biases that we don’t even know are there that influence a vast majority of our decisions.

Unconscious biases are by far the most common and are particularly dangerous because we don’t even know they are there!

HOW DO BIASES PLAY OUT AT WORK AND IN OUR PERSONAL LIVES?

We instinctively categorize people and things using easily observed criteria such as age, weight, race and gender. But, we also classify people according to other traits like educational level, disability, accent, social status and job title. This results in a tendency to rely on stereotypes to make judgments, even if we don’t consciously believe in them. As a result, it may impact our ability to be accepting and inclusive. In addition, it may affect our decisions and actions in a negative way.

WHAT CAN WE DO TO COUNTERACT THE DAMAGE THAT UNCONSCIOUS BIASES CAN DO?

1. Take the time to identify biases that you may have internalized by:

• Taking Harvard’s Project Implicit Association Test. It can help you determine which of your perceptions may be governed by unconscious biases.

by LESLIE SPEAS

• Asking yourself these questions:

- What type of neighborhood do you live in or would like to live in?

- What is your ideal person to date?

- Who do you have as your best friends?

- When in a crowd, what people do you gravitate toward?

- Do you think certain types of people are lazy or without self-control?

- When you see a name you can’t pronounce, what is your first thought about that person?

• Stopping to reflect when you catch yourself judging or making a quick assessment of someone else as biases are likely coming into play.

Once you have awareness of your biases, you can take steps to overcome them.

2. Educate yourself on different cultures and groups

Once you identify your biases, educate yourself on different cultures and groups. Get to know some people that are part of these groups and categories. Be curious, ask them questions and learn more about them to counteract any negative stereotypes. In addition, you can do some reading or research to better educate yourself.

3. Practice empathy

Putting yourself in others’ shoes can help to decrease bias. This is easier to do once you have a better understanding of their culture or group.

4. Practice the pause

When you catch yourself judging or fear your biases may be affecting you, practice the pause. Tell yourself that you need to do a reset because biases may be impacting the situation.

5. Focus on the individual

Focus on what is distinctive about the individual, rather than the group in which he or she is a part.

Provider Spotlight

Novant Health Vein Specialists is hosting a free vein consultation on January 12, 2023. RSVP required.

Enjoy 2023 with healthy legs. If you or someone you love is suffering from painful, achy, swollen or discolored legs, our board certified vein doctors can help. Join us at our next free vein consultation and get back the quality of life you deserve.

Novant Skin & Vein Lyndhurst

Dr. Taam-Akelman enjoys providing comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care for patients of all ages to help them meet their healthcare goals.

Now is the time to put your best foot forward and love your legs more this year.

RSVP to 336-776-3160 or go online to salemveins.com to register.

Three convenient locations Winston-Salem, Kernersville and High Point

Her particular interests include: preventative health, contraceptive counseling, proconception planning, obstetric care, vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC), and minimally invasive surgery.

She is trained in hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, robotic, and vaginal surgery.

111 Hanestown Court, Suite 151

Winston-Salem, NC 27103 | 336.765.9350

445 Pineview Drive, Suite 110 Kernersville, NC 27284 | 336.993.4532

We are in the Novant & Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Networks.

Dr. Taam-Akelman

Child Safety Series BATH

TIME 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.

Did you know that January is National Bath Safety Month? Bath time can be such a routine activity in your home that the risks that are associated with it can often be forgotten. In an effort to reduce bath-related accidents and injuries for your family, this month, we’re sharing tips and precautions that you can implement into your own bath time routines. Let’s keep everyone safe and bath time fun!

Understanding the Risks

Bathrooms are statistically known for being the most dangerous place in our homes for many reasons. The top three hazards surrounding the bath are slips and falls, burns and drownings. The hard surfaces, wet surroundings and collected water at different levels and temperatures all deserve extra attention to minimize the risk of injury, especially in regards to babies and young children. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commision, “over 75% of all bathtub and shower-related fatalities occur among children under five with 90% of the injuries and deaths occuring when these young children are not being supervised by a responsible adult.”

Layers of Protection for Bath Safety

Keeping children safe isn’t about just one protective measure but partnering them in layers to make sure you have every opportunity possible to avoid an incident.

Here are a few different layers of protection to establish in your own home for parents and caregivers:

• ADULT SUPERVISION - Having responsible, intentional eyes on your children at all times is key to ensuring their safety, especially those who are not proficient at standing, balancing or swimming

on their own. Keep everything you need for bath time within arms reach to avoid leaving your little one alone. Adults, parents and caregivers should all be fully aware of potential water and bath-related dangers at home, when visiting someone’s home or traveling on vacation.

• REPETITION OF BOUNDARIESEngage children on topics about water and bathroom safety to ensure the message is getting through to them, at all stages of childhood. Remind them not to go into the bathtub or shower without an adult with them and to always sit in the bathtub, don’t stand.

• PHYSICAL BARRIERS - Invest in child safety resources for your bathroom as this is the first line of defense (outside of supervision) as it restricts solo exposure for children. Invest in things like child safety covers for bathroom door knobs, anti-slip gripper bath or

shower mats or strips, spout cover for the faucet for protection and a thermostat that beeps in the water if the temperature is too hot.

• WATER HEATER UPDATE - Set your water heater at 120 degrees F or right below the medium setting to avoid water temperatures for the bath or shower to get too extreme.

• CPR CERTIFICATION - The NDPA (National Drowning Prevention Alliance) encourages adults to prioritize CPR, first aid and rescue knowledge in the event that something goes wrong and these measures are needed to save a life.

Taking Immediate Action if Injury or Accidents Occur

According to the American Red Cross, should a child exhibit signs of a water emergency, you should rescue and remove them from the water immediately and begin rescue breathing and CPR. Don’t wait to have someone call 911 or emergency medical services (EMS). If you are alone, provide at least two minutes of care, then call EMS.

A general safety measure is to 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 of a child’s burn, wound or injury but have concern, don’t wait to head to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

Helpful Resources to Learn More

• Safe Kids Worldwide - safekids.org

Help make abortion unnecessary.

LEARN MORE

A Good FIT for Community and Individuals

by MEAGAN JOHNSON photos by JODIE BRIM CREATIVE

Located

just a couple of miles from downtown Winston-Salem, minutes from Ardmore and nestled right next to West Salem, you’ll find Washington Park. In addition to beautiful 100+ year old historic homes, this neighborhood has so much to offer. A few of its highlights are a beer garden (Southside Beer Garden), neighborhood barber shop (Washington Park Barber), a convenience store that sells the best fried chicken (J&Js), a coffee shop (Coffee Shed), the perfect casual breakfast or lunch spot (Acadia Foods), a quaint neighborhood pub (Swaim’s), a vintage clothing store (Elevated Weirdo), an eclectic live music venue and bar (Monstercade) and the most recent addition? Washington Park CrossFit.

The building that is now home to Washington Park CrossFit, has been a host of other businesses over the years. What started as a pharmacy under various ownership, including the original Crown Drugs, became a laundromat and a furniture store just to name a few. After sitting vacant for several years, a gym was a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Scott Tyler, Brooke Eagle and Gavin Culler were excited to bring this dream to life. They all have a passion for bringing their community together through fitness.

Washington Park CrossFit is a diverse community of likeminded individuals. Members range in age from early 20s to mid 60s and all have vastly different skill levels and goals. The coaches at Washington Park CrossFit tailor each workout to meet your current skill and fitness level and aim to help you become a better athlete (and no, you don’t have to currently play sports to be considered an athlete). Whether that’s learning how to improve your form and mobility so you can properly squat or if it’s something more advanced like working towards a goal of power cleaning your body weight or mastering a bar muscle up, they can help you get there.

“The coaches are amazing and there is no need to have experience in CrossFit or Olympic lifts. They’ll teach you everything. Gavin’s coaching and classes have been a great asset to my fitness program.”

- Christina B.

CrossFit is “functional fitness,” meaning each movement is rooted in improving an athlete’s daily life. Think: squats for getting up and down

from a seated position, deadlifts for picking things up off the ground, etc. Establishing proper technique won’t only help you get stronger while minimizing risk of injury today, but continues to help you be proficient with these daily movements for as long as possible over the course of your life! Getting stronger (at any age) has incredible health benefits and does wonders for building confidence.

The members at Washington Park CrossFit love fitness of course, but they love the community aspect of the gym. When you spend time with the same people three, four, five times a week, you build a relationship with them!

What can you expect during class? Classes last one hour and once you complete the warm up, you’ll move on to a gymnastics or weightlifting skill portion of class and end the class with a metabolic conditioning workout to get your heartrate up.

The best part about CrossFit? It’s constantly varied. Workouts are constantly switched up and you’ll never be bored. Members can track workouts through the available app and website so they can see progress over time.

Classes are offered in the mornings, lunchtime and evenings. FREE community WODs (“workout of the day” CrossFit terminology) are offered every Saturday at 10am and you can find the full class schedule on their website, washingtonparkcrossfit.com.

Washington Park CrossFit offers a one-week free trial! Come check it out for a few classes to see if it’s a good fit for you! Sign up for your free trial at washingtonparkcrossfit.com.

Washington Park CrossFit is located at 2020 Hollyrood Street in Winston-Salem. Follow them on Instagram, @washingtonparkcrossfit and check out membership options, the workouts for the week and the complete class schedule at washingtonparkcrossfit.com.

“I love the constant coaching and the community. Everyone gets a warm welcome!”

– Nikki H.

4 Reasons Why Being Bored Can Be a Good Thing

by MEGAN TAYLOR

“I’m bored.”

All of our heads shake in unison as we agree that we have muttered this phrase at least once in our lives, no matter our age. These common two words simply show that you may not know what to do at a certain moment. Whether it is five minutes or five hours, boredom is an emotional state that could mean you aren’t satisfied with your current task or the task isn’t making an impact on you. Symptoms include a limited attention span, feelings of emptiness and frustration, and a lack of interest. Fatigue and feeling nervous are other symptoms of boredom.

There are ways to overcome boredom. You could start with finding out why you are bored in the first place. Is it due to laziness or are you feeling unmotivated? From there, you could help to resolve this by getting some rest, setting goals, and creating plans. Other options include changing your surroundings and refocusing your energy. However, being bored isn’t such a bad thing.

Research shows there are health benefits to boredom. These empty moments allow a person to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with themselves in addition to other benefits.

First, your brain is able to rest and improve your overall brain health. Your mind slows down and recharges. Neuroscientist and

lecturer at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Alicia Walf, has proven in research that it is “critical for brain health to let yourself be bored from time to time”. Think about it: your brain works 24/7, absorbing sounds, sights, tastes, and much more that are around you. Boredom provides your brain the opportunity to nod off and absorb information at a slower pace. If you are able, get outside the next time you are bored. Research has shown that being in nature gives your brain a better change of focus and the chance to get some mental rest.

Secondly, boredom brings out the creativity in people. When a person is bored, they are looking for something to do or something to stimulate their mind. When that doesn’t happen, our brains take over and start daydreaming. Who knows, you may be able to come up with a new invention, story, or a plan for dinner while you are daydreaming. All you need to do is just not stress and let your mind run free.

Boredom can also help you be a better person and engage in self-reflection. During these down moments, a person is often trying to find meaning, usually about themselves. Think inward and reflect on your current circumstances, values, and behaviors. It is a great time to

possibly readjust your attitudes, make changes, and improvements in your life. Maybe you always wanted to become more charitable, therefore, use the time you are bored to create a plan and strategy to make that happen. Also, your relationships with friends and family can improve. Neuroscientists have found that when our brains aren’t busy with other thoughts, we can focus on our social interactions and relationships with others. Our activities soon turn into ways to reach out and reconnect with our loved ones.

Lastly, being bored is good for your mental health. Stepping away from work, social media, emails, etc. can provide an escape from the daily grind. This all goes back to the rest, recharging, and turning your mind off for a little bit. However, it is important to correctly engage in these benefits, because, on the flip side, boredom has been linked to causing depression and anxiety.

Psychology lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire in England and author Sandi Mann stated in the TIME article, “Being Bored Can Be Good for You - If You Do It Right” that it is important not to confuse boredom with relaxation. To make the most out of being bored, Mann suggests taking part in an activity that is stress-free and requires little attention. These activities include walking outside, meditating, sitting with your eyes closed, journaling, killing time while waiting for an appointment, or doing a routine task, such as washing dishes. These activities allow for your mind to redirect its focus to find another interest.

The next time you are bored, don’t worry about it and feel as if you need to be doing something. Instead, use this time to embrace the boredom. You may be surprised at what new ideas and thoughts you’ll discover.

LettersHomefrom

The 50-States Tour – A Musical Tribute to Our Armed Forces Across The Country

by CAROLYN S PETERSON

Throughout the history of our country, those who have served and are serving in the military, along with their families, are owed a debt we can never repay. The words “thank you” do not come close to the appreciation we have for our military. In decades past, the USO would travel to our troops and boost morale while keeping them connected to family, home and country as they served in foreign lands. Along that same idea of the USO is Letters from Home, a musical review started in 2010 by Erinn Dearth, of Winston-Salem, to honor veterans, active military heroes and their families.

From January-March 2023, Letters From Home will be embarking on a 50-States Tour, performing in each of the United States.

The show began when Erinn Dearth was having Sunday night dinner with her dad, Pat Dearth, a veteran of the Coast Guard, who passed away in 2015. “Letters from Home began as an Andrews Sisters tribute for WWII veterans,” Erinn said. “Since that time, it has developed to honor all veterans of all generations with many different styles, all reminiscent of the USO.”

The nationwide touring team consists of six main players: Erinn and her fiancé, Dan Beckmann, who is the taller and funnier half of Letters From Home, the show’s ground manager, Myra Miller who has traveled with the group many times with her company, Footsteps Researchers, stage manager and sound technician Grace Reasoner, assistant stage manager and lighting technician Tyler Zickmund, and a documentarian, Jack Waiterman, who will be filming the entire tour of stops in all 50 states. Beckmann will be taking the footage Walterman captures and will be creating a documentary about the tour and the impact it makes across the country.

Dancing and Singing Across the Country

Erinn has been singing and tap dancing since she was three years old. Dan started getting into theater in high school in Minneapolis, Minnesota and had a natural gift for singing. Dan was told his entire life he couldn’t be a dancer, but a few years ago, Erinn was able to teach him, and now they are both singing and tap dancing their way across the country on a slightly updated mission.

“While our overlying mission is to honor veterans, this tour is also about uniting the nation,” says Erinn. “We believe that politics and patriotism are not the same thing, and no matter what’s going on in the world, music is something that brings people together to remember the things that are truly important. We’re hoping that these shows will be uplifting, perspective changing and healing for the entire country.” In the 12 years since Letters from Home began, this is the first time that the group has performed in all 50 states, and the task of taking it on in just four months is certainly an exciting one.

Dan is also an award-winning photographer with his company, Dan Beckmann Photography. Along the journey, Dan will be capturing images in all 50 states. While audiences are enjoying the show live, the group will also entertain online through their Facebook and Instagram pages, and a 50-States Tour blog which will feature photos taken by Dan.

The tour kicks off close to home on January 24th, 2023. Letters from Home will host a kick-off press event on January 24th, 2023 at Richard Childress Racing in Lexington. This is a free event that is open to the public. The event will include performances, meet and greet with the cast, special presentations from Footsteps Researchers, and an overview of the tour.

Tickets for all 50 venues are now on sale in each state, and you can find the show closest to you on the Letters From Home website. While prices vary depending on the venue and costs in each state, Erinn says if there are veterans who can’t afford tickets to the shows, they will gladly be comped in. “We truly just want to honor veterans everywhere and will find other ways to cover expenses,” she said.

There are also sponsorship opportunities, both locally and nationally available for the tour.

For more information on the tour with dates and ticket prices, visit LettersFromHomeSingers.com. To follow the Letters from Home tour, check out facebook.com/LettersFromHomeSingers. The official North Carolina stop of the Letters From Home 50-States Tour will be Thursday, May 25, 2023 at The High Point Theatre in High Point.

Finding Ways to Celebrate Reading this January

by ELISA WALLACE COPPEDE

ThisJanuary, there are a few varied reasons to celebrate reading. The entire month of January is known as “National Book Blitz Month” while January 23rd is “National Reading Day.” Both celebrations are aimed at promoting a love of literacy, from young readers to seasoned literary critics.

January is often a difficult month to find motivation to head outdoors due to inclement winter weather. This said, the entire month is the perfect time to cozy up with a new or old book and dive into another world. The creation of “National Book Blitz Month” is first aimed at having authors promote their books through a “blitz” style of marketing, to excite and encourage younger audiences to put down their smart devices and pick up a book. Sadly today, most younger generations have a lifestyle centered around technology. “National Book Blitz Month” is a way to channel our energy towards displaying to younger generations how they can find true joy through reading.

“National Reading Day” is a similar celebration of literacy. January 23rd is a day which encourages younger readers to put down everything and READ! Schools across the country feature diverse types of reading activities, from hosting a “read-a-thon” to inviting adult readers to the classroom to read their favorite books. In the end, both celebrations have a similar focus –fostering a love of reading for all.

Curious on what ways you can create a positive environment which encourages reading in your home? This can be either for yourself, or for a loved one. Read on for five different tips on how to embrace literacy this January.

Love of Literacy Tip #1: Create a “Book Nook.” Again, this does not have to only be for younger audiences. Find a cozy area of your home, and make it conducive for reading. This can be a comfortable seat near a window, or even a corner of your room, where you can set up some pillows and blankets. The main idea here is to make sure to include several books in

Love of Literacy Tip #2: Take it Outside! While we have discussed how often January is not ideal for enjoying the outdoors, if the weather cooperates, consider taking a few warm blankets outside, a cup of hot cocoa, coffee or tea, and head outside! Reading outside is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh air and the sounds of wildlife, while also escaping into a new read.

Love of Literacy Tip #3: Include the Entire Family. The purpose again of literacy celebrations throughout the year, is to encourage everyone to read. This said, make sure to include all members of the family in your own literacy celebration. At schools, teachers will often “drop everything and read” with their students during a read-athon. Do the same at home. Create a time for all to sit down, pick up a book and enjoy taking a ride into another reality, together.

Love of Literacy Tip #4: Bring the Theater Home! “Reader’s theater” is a wonderful way to engage younger audiences up through high school to become specific characters within their favorite books. No script is needed. Simply establish one person or two to be the “narrator,” then pick other members of the family to read the dialogue of various characters. The beauty of “Reader’s Theater” is that it is up to you how elaborate you would like it to be. If reading a shorter book, consider even creating a set for certain scenes where younger members can help with painting and creating the stage.

Love of Literacy Tip #5: Join or Start a Book Club. Being a part of a book club is a sure-fire way to read new books, which you may have not originally selected. Signing up for one also helps you gain insight on new subjects, not only from the book, but from the discussion of the book the book club creates, as well. There are countless reasons for joining one – from joining one to meet new friends, to joining a religious book group, book clubs are also healthy outlets for exploring a subject, while also offering new friendships.

Qualities of a Great Transformational Leader

by KAREN COOPER

When you look back on your life, who were the people that inspired you, motivated you and made you feel like you could succeed? It could be a parent, a boss, a role-model or anyone you looked at as a leader. When I think about the leaders in my life that made the biggest impression on me, they were not the ones looking over my shoulder to make sure I was doing everything right. They were the people who empowered me to believe in myself and the ones who believed in me so much, I wanted to show them I could be successful.

There are specific types of leaders called transformational leaders. This approach to leadership is defined as one that inspires others to strive beyond required expectations to work toward a shared vision. When it is successful, transformational leadership creates valuable and positive change in those who are following, with the end goal of developing followers into leaders.

Here are some of the most essential qualities of these leaders:

Sincere Enthusiasm

True enthusiasm for a cause, a project, a job or anything

else cannot be faked for long. When leaders are sincerely enthusiastic and passionate, it spills over to the people around them and serves as its own kind of motivation.

Integrity

Whether it’s making safety a priority, applauding accomplishments of team members or admitting when mistakes have been made, great leaders always lead with integrity. They do what’s right, even if doing so will not benefit them.

Self-Awareness & Authenticity

Transformational leaders are introspective and work to develop a deep understanding of who they are. They use this to marry their goals with the needs of the larger group. These leaders accept their imperfections and bring their true, authentic selves into their leadership roles where they guide with vision and compassion in a way that inspires others.

Great Communication Skills

Leaders must motivate, train and direct the people they are leading. Without strong communication, none of these things can be accomplished. Part of being a great communicator is being a great

listener, so good leaders must listen as much as (or more than) they speak.

Ability to Collaborate

Good leaders regularly enlist the help of others on their team. They identify goals, schedule meetings or have discussions and then use what they learn from that communication to tackle solving big problems they would not have been able to solve on their own.

Humility

Transformational leaders must have a healthy dose of humility. They are constantly listening to and learning from others and must always remain teachable. Knowing that they do not have all the answers enables them to be flexible, so they can cope with and thrive in an environment of change.

Loyalty

The best leaders understand that true loyalty is a two-way street. Because of this, they express their loyalty in ways that benefit those they are leading. They show their loyalty by ensuring all team members have the training and resources necessary to do their jobs. These are the leaders who stand up for their teams whenever there is a crisis or conflict.

Decisiveness

A good leader is not just empowered to make decisions; they are willing to take on the risk of decision making, as well. They are the ones on the line if their decisions don’t work out. Indecisive leaders are usually ineffective. Too much time spent trying to build consensus can have a negative impact.

Congeniality

Let’s face it, people are much more likely to follow the lead of those they like. The most successful leaders are approachable, friendly and well-spoken. They also show sincere care for others.

You’ve probably heard the expression “born leader.” The phrase implies a person is born with the qualities that make him or her a good leader. However, this is not necessarily the case. It’s true that some people are born with certain traits that can make it easier for them to lead, but skills and qualities that make a good leader can also be learned. And, leadership abilities can always be improved upon over time. So “born leaders” may have an advantage, but lots of people can lead if they have the drive and the desire to do so.

Volunteering with Crisis Control Ministry is a great, feel-good way to meet new people in your community. From helping with special events to sorting food, the types of volunteer opportunities are extensive. We could not serve the community without our volunteers. Neighbors helping neighbors is truly who we are. Please join

Personalized Collections

The Common Items We Acquire

by MEGAN TAYLOR

Eachperson has their own preference of objects and knick-knacks that they like to collect. Some may choose to go more with sport-related memorabilia, while others prefer more family pieces. Throughout the years, you may notice that you have built a collection of the same or similar objects. As for me, it was postcards and rocks.

According to dictionary.com, the official definition for a “collection” is “a group of objects or an amount of material accumulated in one location especially for some purpose.” Collections are unique, personalized, and can hold special meanings for the owner. Collecting can quickly become a hobby with people being on a treasure hunt for new items to add to their stash. In addition, depending on the age and value of the objects, some collections can be worth a lot of money.

There are a variety of collectibles in the world. Some may be crazy or rare, while some may be more common. Let’s take a look at some of the most collected items, popular and also on the unique side. Do you collect some of these items?

Most Popular Items

• Stamps - Due to their long history and unique variety, stamps have been very popular to collect throughout the generations. Every country in the world has their own version of postage stamps, making some designs rarer and more valuable.

• Coins - Similar to stamps, coin collections can come from all over the world with their own histories and stories. However,

it is important to know the basics of coin collection when you get started. These basics include how they are made, the different patterns, and the best way to store the coins.

• Comic Books - Young or old versions, comic books are a favorite among many. You may focus on just one story or character, multiple stories, or invest in finding special copies. Keep in mind, though, these books need to be kept in perfect condition in order to be preserved and passed down through the years.

• Trading Cards - Let me tell you, trading cards are still as beloved today as they have been in the past. My middle school students were in fact talking about their collections and trading them just a few weeks ago. Collections of these items can include Magic cards, Pokemon, and Yu-Gi-Oh!

• Toys - Growing up, I had numerous Beanie Babies. Some may say it was a collection, I didn’t really see it that way. Beanie Babies are just one of the many toys that people have gathered in numbers. Barbie Dolls, Polly Pockets, and figurines are other popular items. Some treasure hunters only seek the retro or rare toys or certain brands.

Unique Collectables

• Royal memorabilia - A few people are true British royal family fans and have collected items that commemorate historical events, such as royal weddings, births, and deaths. Whether it is Princess Diana or William and Kate, some memorabilia may be worth something.

• Brainteasers - These games and puzzles require people

to think critically and logically. Collections of these types could include paper versions of brainteasers, as well as, Rubik’s Cubes, wooden puzzles, Picasso Tiles, and metal wire puzzles.

• Gnomes - Small garden creatures of all shapes, sizes, and seasons, more commonly known as gnomes, have been around for many decades. These items do have special meanings as gnomes are actually symbols of good luck and are thought to provide protection. For some people, building a collection of gnomes comes from just wanting something cute to look at.

• Vacuum Cleaners - While vacuuming may not be some people’s favorite thing to do, vacuum cleaners have become a collector’s item. New and old versions of the machines, as well as rare types, are available. Some go for the Hoover types, while others stay with Dysons.

• Feathers - Bird lovers are more tuned into this type of collection. Feathers of different colors, textures, sizes, and from a variety of animals throughout the world can be used as great learning tools. However, of course, you need to proceed with caution when it comes to acquiring feathers from live birds.

There are hundreds of different collections throughout the world. Some are small, some are big, some are expensive, and others are completely free. Whatever you collect, be sure to find the items that are special and fun for you. Collections are wonderful hobbies that can be passed through generations. The next time you start gathering similar items, think to yourself, “Will this become my next collection?”

Music to soothe your soul...

Solving a Flea Problem with CHEMICAL-FREE

DIY REMEDIES

by SUSAN BOYOUNG BAILEY SCHABACKER

An urgent need to find practical, doable, DIY chemical-free ways to fend off an infestation of fleas inspired this article. A few days after pet sitting for a friend’s dog, I was covered with itch-induced scratching and rashes on my ankles, and I discovered that my apartment had been infested with fleas.

I quickly learned about possible health risks. It’s hard to believe that these blood-sucking pests, nearly invisible to the naked eye, could wreak such havoc. These unwelcome guests can usher themselves into your home, easily unnoticed via a dog or cat, and they multiply rapidly. Their bites are blood meals that can cause intense itching with inflamed red rashes, especially on feet, ankles and calves. Flea bites can put you at risk for parasites and infectious diseases, and if blisters form, there is a risk of developing secondary infections.

Since I’m a firm believer in purer, more organic and natural solutions, I decided against what I considered to be the last resort of having pest control fumigate and “bomb” every square inch of my apartment. I chose, instead, to avoid harsh chemicals and opted for a natural solution, and thankfully, it worked!

Whether preventing fleas or exterminating an existing colony in need of urgent eradication, here are some suggestions you can easily DIY to forgo the harsh chemicals.

Once you know fleas are in the house, do not delay! A week is more than enough time for the population to explode exponentially since it takes just three days for a flea to reach maturity and start breeding.

First, throw what you can into the washer and dryer to kill the invading intruders at high heat. Add half a cup of white vinegar to each load and toss in everything washable, including clothes, bedding, pillows, blankets, towels and throw rugs.

Next, pull out your trusty vacuum and steel yourself to vacuum every day. Sprinkle table salt and/or baking soda liberally on all carpets and floors. Allow to sit for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. Salt and baking soda dehydrate and kill flea eggs and the vibrations cause adult fleas to jump and be scooped up into the vacuum. Studies show that vacuuming can kill 96% of adult fleas and 100% of the eggs, but you’ll have to move furniture around, vacuum all the nooks and crannies and be really diligent and thorough. Since you don’t want fleas you just vacuumed up to escape right back into the carpets, discard the old vacuum bag immediately. Seal it up in another bag, take it far away from the house and replace it with a new bag every day.

What about everything else? DIY to the rescue. Fill two spray bottles – one with a mixture of 50/50 plain white vinegar and water, and the other with a mixture of 50/50 hydrogen peroxide and water. Check color fastness first, then liberally spray furniture, fabric, under the bed and in all the closets. Be thorough and lift up cushions as you go. Spray throughout the area, several times throughout the day, alternating between the two mixtures.

Amp up your senses with an aromatherapy experience as you wipe down counters and mop the floors. Add about 30 drops of anti-flea essential oils in any combination to a spray bottle filled with one cup white vinegar and two cups water. Anti-flea essential oils include peppermint, tea tree, rosewood, cedar, eucalyptus, lemon and lemongrass. Essential oils must always be diluted and avoid contact with the eyes and mouth.

It’s tempting to scratch all those flea bites, but that only makes it worse. Instead, bring down the swelling, rashes and irritation with your own DIY spray. Dilute a few drops of lavender, chamomile, tea tree and/or peppermint essential oils in a plant-based carrier oil like jojoba, olive, coconut, avocado or apricot kernel oil, then massage gently into the skin. Thankfully, these natural remedies are also pretty budget-friendly.

Don’t get lazy. You have to be diligent with all the vacuuming, washing and spraying, but these natural measures will eventually be effective and leave your home flea-free without the use of harsh chemicals that could have an adverse effect on your health.

Reinventing Leftovers

: Creative Ideas to Help Give Meals Another Life

by MEGAN TAYLOR

We all have eaten them. We all have dished out the same meal two nights in a row until it is completely gone to avoid throwing away any amount of food. In general, we all have eaten leftovers.

To be specifically correct, a leftover is defined as “surplus foods remaining unconsumed at the end of a meal, which may be put in containers with the intention of eating later.” Something the majority of people have done. However, when it comes to leftovers, we can only eat the same meal for a certain amount of time. For example, you have a large amount of lasagna uneaten. After eating it two or three more times, the delicious taste wears off. In comes the time to reinvent the leftover. The next time you have leftovers from a dish, make sure you aren’t eating the same dish twice; just another version of it. Reinventing leftovers takes creativity and a little bit of time, but will be well worth it in the end. Need some ideas? Take a look at the list of new ways to bring life into uneaten meals below:

• Turn leftover meat and/or vegetables into a quesadilla - Any meat, chicken, steak, pork chops, etc. can be chopped up and mixed with cooked vegetables, cheese, spices and sauces. Then, place the mixture inside a tortilla and grill in a pan. Quesadillas are a great way to combine leftovers together and use them in greater quantities and in a new way. Wraps are another take on quesadillas that still use leftover meat and vegetables in a fun, creative spin.

• Take uneaten rice and make it into a stir-fry - Creating a stir-fry doesn’t take much time at all and can be healthy. Using your leftover rice, combine it with vegetables, meat, sauce and other ingredients of your

choosing in a pan on the stove. Then, cook until ready to eat.

• Leftover bread equals homemade croutons - Using a knife, cut leftover bread, whether it be cornbread, rolls, etc. into small squares. Place onto a pan and drizzle with butter or olive oil. Bake or toast them in the oven. Before you know it, you have created an extra crunch for your soups and salads. You can also turn leftover bread into breadcrumbs with the use of a food processor.

• Mashed potatoes can easily be turned into gnocchi - Mashed potatoes, mixed with flour and one egg, can be remade into the Italian potato dumpling, gnocchi. All you need is:

- 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (no need to reheat; just take right out of the fridge) - 1 egg - Salt - 1-2 cups all purpose flour

Then, combine the mashed potatoes, egg and salt into a bowl. Add ¼ cup of the flour and stir together. Continue adding ¼ cup of flour to the mixture until the dough is soft and can be made into a ball, but not sticky. Roll out the dough into a flat square. Then, roll into a large rope. Cut the rope into one inch pieces. Bring a pot of water with salt to a boil. Add the gnocchi pieces to

the boiling water and cook for two to three minutes. Drain and top with your favorite sauce.

• Cooked pasta can be used in more than one way - Cooked pasta doesn’t have to go to waste if it isn’t eaten in the first go-around. Instead, it can be revitalized into pasta salads, added to soups or stews, or made into a frittata.

• Turn leftover fish into fish cakes. This recipe works best with cod or salmon, but does work with other types of fish, as well. Using a fork, chop the fish into small pieces. Toss it with bread crumbs, eggs, mayonnaise and spices. Then, bake or fry until ready.

There are few important things to keep in mind when inventing leftovers. Whenever possible, focus on the individual ingredients of a dish rather than the dish as a whole. Also, be purposeful when planning meals for the first round. Think of ingredients you can buy in large quantities and use in a variety of ways. Don’t be afraid to eat leftovers from dinner for lunch with a twist the next day. And lastly, dedicate a night each week to consume all the leftovers from dishes eaten that week. This tip will help break up the monotony that comes from enjoying the same dish several times in a row.

Most of the time, leftovers are unavoidable. But, they don’t have to be boring. The next time you are faced with them, turn to one of these ideas to make them more creative and enjoyable.

Let’s

home.

hiring

Triad Events for 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:

Innovators & Legends - Winston-Salem Symphony Stevens Center of the UNCSA Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m., Jan. 8 at 3 p.m.

Tickets $25-$90

Stilian Kirov, a music director candidate, leads this concert. It features an outstanding pianist, composer and innovator. The program opens with Ruth Crawford Seeger’s Andante for Strings. Terrence Wilson interprets Beethoven’s First Piano Concerto. The concert ends with Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony.

Styx: 2023 World Tour Steven Tanger Center, Greensboro Jan. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $45 The essence of Styx is defined by harmony, chemistry, balance, grit, dexterity, determination and solidarity. The successful rock band has forged a legacy on albums and onstage. Styx has now added a new chapter to their story: “The Mission.” It’s the band’s 16th album.

Stephen Sharer: Share the Love Tour Bojangles Entertainment Complex Ovens Auditorium, Charlotte Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $29

Stephen Sharer is one of America’s fastest growing content creators with over 5 billion YouTube views and millions of music streams. His Share the Love brand is popular for its family friendly videos, music hits and one-of-a-kind creations.

Sounds of the Mountains Series With The Becky Buller Band and Violet Bell Yadkin Cultural Arts Center Jan. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $30

Becky Buller is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and 10-time IBMA award recipient. Her compositions have been recorded by Ricky Skaggs, Rhonda Vincent and others.

Everybody Says Don’t: John Carden Sings Broadway

Watson Hall at UNCSA campus Jan. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $20 for adults, $15 for students

John Carden, a 1988 alumnus from UNCSA, performs a program of works from musical theater and Broadway. Carden is the youngest countertenor to be awarded a contract at The Metropolitan Opera.

Monster Jam

Greensboro Coliseum

Jan. 14 at 7 p.m., Jan. 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $20 Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Monster Jam returns to the Greensboro Coliseum, featuring world-class athletes locked in intense competitions of speed and skill.

The Blue Ridge Opry

The Reeves Theater, Elkin Jan. 14 Call (336) 258-8240 for tickets

The Blue Ridge Opry is a fun-filled variety show with musical guests, comedy and dancers. The show is a throwback to the early days of the Grand Old Opry programs from the golden era of country music.

Stephen King’s Misery Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance Jan. 20-29 at 8 p.m. Tickets: $21 for adults, $19 for students “Misery” follows Paul Sheldon, a successful romance novelist, who is rescued from an auto crash by his biggest fan. She takes him home and forces him to write a new “Misery” novel and has no intention of letting him go.

Barry Manilow: Hits 2023 Spectrum Center, Charlotte Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $19 Manilow is on a seven-arena tour, marking his 50th anniversary as a recording artist. He’ll perform his greatest hits.

Cats

Steven Tanger Center, Greensboro Jan. 24-29 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29 “Cats,” the record-breaking Broadway musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is on tour. Winner of seven Tony Awards, “Cats” tells the story of a tribe of cats gathered for its annual ball to rejoice and decide which cat will be reborn.

Federally insured by NCUA.

336-765-5470

Novant Health WomanCare

114 Charlois Blvd. Winton-Salem, NC 27103 4130 Clemmons Rd. Clemmons, NC 27013

Slow Cooker Creamy White Chicken Chili

PREP TIME: 10 MIN | COOK TIME: 4 HOURS TOTAL TIME: 4 HOURS 10 MIN | SERVINGS: 6 INGREDIENTS 1 lb Chicken Breasts, skinless and boneless 1 small Yellow Onion, finely chopped 2 Garlic Cloves, minced, or 1 tsp. Garlic Powder 15 ounces Northern Beans, drained 2 4-ounce Diced Green Chiles

2 15-ounce Sweet Corn Kernels, drained 24 ounces Chicken Broth

1 tsp. each: Chili Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Ground Cumin, Oregano 6 ounces Reduced Fat Cream Cheese 1/4 cup Half and Half Milk

OPTIONAL

TOPPINGS

Tortilla Chips; Lime Wedges; Avocado, sliced; Sour Cream; Jalapeños, sliced

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add all ingredients EXCEPT the cream cheese and milk into a crockpot/slow cooker. 2. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or LOW for 7-8 hours.

3. Once cooked, remove 1/2 cup of the hot soup to add into a bowl. Add the cream cheese, as well as the half and half. Stir until smooth. Pour back into the crockpot. Cook on HIGH for 15 more minutes.

4. Serve warm with your favorite chili toppings. Enjoy!

JONESVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

A Little Library with a BIG HEART for People

by CAROLYN S PETERSON

With the advancements in technology, you can research information on any subject and read the latest novel without leaving your home; everything is at your fingertips, so you may think that libraries are relics of yesteryear. But, libraries still have an important role in our communities, and Jonesville Public Library has become a little something more to people of all ages!

A History of Growing to Meet Needs

In the spring of 1961, a group from the JonesvilleArlington Women’s Club began the process of establishing a library in Jonesville. Under the recommendation of Phyllis Snyder, with the NC State Library, the towns of Jonesville and Arlington combined and received a federal grant of $3,875 to begin establishing the library. The funds were used to buy books and pay a librarian for one year and officially opened May 21, 1962. Over the years, the Jonesville Public Library has gone through changes to meet the community’s needs. In 2016, due to storm damage, the library moved to a temporary location with volunteers focused on a more permanent solution to the upheaval caused by the storm. With the generosity of Friends of the Jonesville Library Group members, in April 2020, a building was purchased and volunteers transformed the once physician’s office into a library. On October 21, 2021, the Jonesville Public Library opened its doors to the public for the first time in their permanent home, 112 North Swaim Street in Jonesville. Since then, the outreach of the library has continued to meet all ages and their needs.

Learn, Change and Grow

The staff members at the Jonesville Public Library are not only active in the library, but in the community as well, so they know the needs of those in the community and how the library can meet those needs.

Jennifer Rogers, branch manager, said, “We are actively seeking grants to introduce programs that can reach our neighbors where they are. We have to learn, change and grow just as the rest of the world does. We try hard to make sure that we have programs that are fun for all ages, and of course, free for everyone!” The programs at the Jonesville Public Library begin with the youngest in the community to the oldest.

“Wiggle Worm Wednesdays is our Pre-K story time. We have different subjects to focus on each week, with a craft to go along with it, at 10am and 12pm. For those who cannot attend in person, we offer virtual story times on our Facebook page, and the crafts can be picked up at the library throughout the week. For the children who are a bit older, we have #MadeItMyself crafts that are ‘take it and make it’ crafts where children can pick up a craft, take it home and make it. These crafts are different each month and are available for pick-up the entire month. For our teens, we have our Teen Advisory Board (TAB), that meets every third Thursday of the month starting at 5:30pm and discusses programs they would like to have. This meeting includes craft time and finishes out the night playing games on the Oculus. Adults aren’t left out at the library; they can pick up Adult Zen Bags throughout the month, each with a different theme. The bags have adult coloring pages, crosswords, word sentences and a sweet treat. There are other programs for all ages too, both in-person, virtual and take home,” commented Jennifer.

Technology to Reach Others

In the summer of 2022, the library received grant money for technology purchases, to expand the library, and put the money to great use addressing additional needs to reach others in the community.

“We are the only library in the area with an Oculus Quest 2 giving young and older people an experience with virtual reality for free! We have also started a homebound delivery service to keep those who stay at home active with books, movies, audio and crafts. Our staff is also offering help filling out job applications here at the library and, if needed, we will send a laptop home for completion of the application. Another very popular program is our annual technology class for seniors. It’s the only place in the area to get that kind of education for free. It’s so rewarding making the differences we are seeing and bettering the lives of our community,” Jennifer stated.

Jonesville Public Library is located at 112 North Swaim Street in Jonesville. For more information on programs, call 336.835.7604, or visit nwrl.org.

Crushing new goals for a great

Music’s Therapeutic & Inspiring Impact on Health, Healing and Happiness

by SUSAN BOYOUNG BAILEY SCHABACKER

Traditionally and today, music has not just embraced our ears and stuck in our minds, it has resonated with our hearts and souls and benefited our health, healing and happiness, as well.

The songs we listen to, create and share don’t just embrace our ears, they also resonate with our spirits and souls and can actually improve our health, well-being and real-ationships.

Research has shown the profound influence and impact that music has on the brain and body. Given what we now know about the many ways music can support and improve life, lifestyle and lifespan, you can choose to adopt a creatively crafted, strategic approach to your song selections that will maximize music’s bountiful benefits.

Music as Medicine

Worldwide and across all cultures, music is a universal language that’s been spoken in traditional and modern times to promote better health. Music’s capacity for restorative healing is not new and has benefited mankind since ancient times. In ancient Greece, music was known to be therapeutic, and those suffering with depression were advised to listen to dulcimer music while those suffering with anxiety or mania were encouraged to listen to a soothing flute. Hippocrates believed music and the medical arts were deeply intertwined. Interestingly, the Chinese symbol for “medicine” includes the characters that represent both healing and music, clearly linking the concept of music as medicine. Africans and Native Americans ritually shared a musical connection with singing and chanting in a harmonious marriage of rhythm and melody. Every culture creates and listens to music.

The intricate interconnectivity of music and medicine can lead to therapeutic benefits and healing. Extensive medical research studies conclude that music can positively impact the brains of those with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and can improve the cardiovascular health among those recovering from recent heart attacks.

Looking for a natural pain reliever (that’s also cost effective) that soothes the senses without any side effects? Music can fit that bill. Songs can be harnessed to relieve stress and anxiety, alleviate pain and serve as a segway into sweet slumber. Music offers hope for those struggling with pain. For instance, studies have found music therapy to significantly reduce the pain of fibromyalgia while increasing functional mobility. Researchers believe alleviation of pain, in large part, may be due to a release of opioids in the brain.

Prozac or piano? For treating depression, music is making its mark in research, boosting mood, improving alertness and concentration, and aiding sleep (also beneficial to those with sleep disorders). Simply listening and opening your ears to embracing music will “activate more brain regions simultaneously than any other human activity,” says

Mindful Music for Health & Healing

Consider the feelings, mood and outcome you want to achieve when selecting the songs you choose to listen to. Find your favorite sounds and songs in many different musical genres/styles for any time of day, in any environment and situation.

Relax Tracks

Kick back and chillax, whether at home, at work or on the go to low tempo, lo fi songs that help you stay cool, calm and collected, weathering even the most chaotic and stressful situations. Stress busting, anxiety relieving and depression kicking soothing songs can help you relax and recover both mentally and physically. Try nature sounds (including white noise), classical, new age (including binaural beats and sounds specifically for healing), ambient, electronic soundscapes and folk.

Upbeat Uptempo Energy Evoking

Boost that bass, as you boost your brain and get that blood pumping for a high energy cardio workout you work up to (and cool down from). Find ideal pick-me-up songs to get you moving with rhythms you can groove to. Pick up the pace with a quicker drumbeat, as your heartbeat also quickens with re-vive and re-vitalize tracks (however light or heavy) in genres/style like pop, rock, electronic and metal.

Make the most of your musical experience and engage in other helpful self-care activities to benefit your health and healing, like deep diaphragmatic breathing, staying hydrated, practicing mindfulness, meditation and prayer, massage/reflexology/aromatherapy, exercising and body conditioning.

Neurologist Alexander Pantelyat, MD, Founder and Co-Director, Johns Hopkins Center for Music and Medicine.

BRINGING THE KIDS INDOORS The Sporting (Indoor) Life

by MICHAEL JOHNSON

Youthsports is big business. Kids across Forsyth Country partake in a wide array of athletic leagues and activities year round. The young athletes do not stop just because the temperatures drop. Many gyms, training centers and athletic facilities are positioned as the perfect locations for getting out of the elements. Being able to tap into discounts on year-round sports seasons and training sessions at some of these facilities also makes it so that memberships to these spots certainly can make sense.

YMCA

There are upwards of 12 branches in the Northwest North Carolina YMCA community. Branches across the county are hotspots of daily activity.

All YMCA of Northwest North Carolina members have access to all locations and programs. With membership at one branch, you can enjoy full access and amenities at each of the 12 locations.

Be sure to find out more at: ymcanwnc.org

RISE Indoor Sports

(riseindoorsports.com)

If you’re looking for a place for the family to play indoor sports, master athletic skills or improve health and fitness, you’ll find it all here at RISE

With more than 123,000 square feet of regulation courts, fields and amenities, they are dedicated to providing best-in-class health, wellness and performance year-round through:

• local programming for leagues, camps, clinics and sport-specific training

• tournament competitions for teams throughout the US

• family fitness for all ages

• court rental and special events

Diamond Xtreme (teamdxt.com)

Diamond Xtreme in Kernersville (263 Gretas Way Court) is a new kid on the block of sports facilities. Diamond Xtreme turns the per-session arrangement for baseball training on its head and offers a monthly membership for patrons.

Diamond Xtreme Training (DXT) is a state of the art 28,000-square-foot baseball and softball indoor, year-round training facility. The facility offers a wide variety of services from individual instruction, baseball and softball hitting cages, performance sports training, equipment sales and glove repair.

A Sketch, a Tune

When the weather gets frigid, coming indoors to dive into artistic endeavors is another terrific pastime. Encouraging musical and artistic talents is key. There are myriad musical instruments on sale on Facebook marketplace and at local music stores. Art supplies are abundant at local craft stores, and YouTube has no shortage of draw-along lessons for young Picassos. Being able to watch along as instructors build a sketch into something life-like is a great way to build children’s artistic interests and arm them with an arsenal of techniques and styles.

Everybody, Jump!

The youthful collective is always up for a good bounce on a trampoline. Trampoline parks are now in a battle to outdo each other. There is a wide array of trampolines at any of these indoor parks, both semivertical and horizontal, even replete with basketball hoops for dunking. Games of dodge ball on these trampolines make for a spirited contest that keeps the kids hopping.

Urban Air Adventure Park (www.urbanair.com) at 200 Summit Square Boulevard in Winston-Salem is a local hotspot. You can purchase monthly memberships that can allow your young ones access anytime they desire. Urban Air has a Skyrider attraction that has kids strapped securely into a track across the expansive park’s ceiling and flying high. The usual games of jousting above foam pits and challenging ropes courses are here, but plenty more as well.

Urban Air Adventure Park has been voted BEST Gym In America for Kids by Shape Magazine

Interactive Learning

Kaleideum has two locations in Winston-Salem. Both Kaleideum North (400 West Hanes Mill Road) and Kaleideum downtown (390 South Liberty Street) are filled with tactile and informative exhibits for kids.

Kaleideum North - With more than 25,000 square feet of exhibits and a 17-acre science and environmental park, there is so much to do at Kaleideum North.

• View the night sky in the Planetarium.

• Meet and learn more about a resident animal during an animal encounter.

• Check out the curiosity cart, which sparks curiosity about arts and crafts, museum collections, storytime and more.

• Take part in a hands-on prism experience, part of Kaleideum’s engineering and innovation initiative.

• Explore a science concept and engage with our staff during Science Live!

Kaleideum Downtown is open on weekends at its current South Liberty Street location (Saturdays 10-5pm, Sundays 1-5pm), and its new home currently is being constructed. Extending five floors from ground to top and including a 13,000-squarefoot rooftop playground, the building will stand on the former site of the Forsyth County sheriff’s office, which was recently torn down.

The intended opening date for the new facility is anticipated for early 2024! Kaleideum officials said the attraction will also be a link between the arts and cultural districts to the north and more historic and civic districts to the south. The museum will be the anchor of the southern end of Merschel Park, a downtown open space south of where Fourth and Trade streets intersect.

“For Days of Auld Lang Syne, My Friends”

The

History

The clock strikes midnight on January 1st, and another year has begun. For most people, the lyrics to the song “Auld Lang Syne” are some of the first words heard or spoken in the new year. This famous song signifies the ending of the old year and the importance of friendship. The title words translate to “for old times’ sake.” While many people know its classic lyrics, the history of this Scottish tune is known only by a few.

“Auld Lang Syne” was first written as a poem by Scottish Poet Robert Burns in 1788. The poem’s words, and now lyrics, describe the tale of old friends having a drink and reflecting on times long ago. Burns used another Scottish folk song and, as Burns once said himself, “the words of an old man” as inspiration. Many notice the similarities between “Auld Lang Syne” and the Scottish ballad “Old Long Syne” which was printed in 1711 by James Watson.

Even though it was written in 1788, the poem wasn’t published and made public until Burns’ death in 1796, when it first appeared in James Johnson’s Scots Musical Museum. In 1799, the words were put to music. Various versions of the same tune of “Auld Lang Syne” were used in English Composer William Shield’s opera, Rosina, in 1782 and Johnson’s volume four of the Scots Musical Museum in 1792. George Thomson created the version we know today seven years later.

“Auld Lang Syne” has been reproduced throughout the world. In 1877, Alexander Graham Bell aired the tune to show how the telephone worked, and in 1890, “Auld Lang Syne” was one of the first songs recorded by Emil Berliner on the gramophone. Lastly, the song gained more notoriety when it was sung at the end of the World Scout Jamboree in 1920. After this event, France, Germany, Greece and Poland created their own version. However, it wasn’t until 1929, that the tune became associated with the new year. During the Times Square celebrations that year, lyrics were shown on the electronic ticker, and the rest is history. Since then, the tune has appeared in TV shows and movies, famously closing the story of It’s a Wonderful Life in 1946.

by MEGAN TAYLOR

When it comes to New Year’s, “Auld Lang Syne” has been added to many different celebrations and ceremonies. Each event has a specific tradition of their own for the song. One particular event is the Scottish Hogmanay New Year’s celebration. This town has a special tradition that dates back to the mid-19th century and the practices of the Freemasons. In Hogmanay, Scotland, participants stand in a circle holding hands while singing the classic lyrics. Then, when the last verse begins, everyone crosses their arms over their chest and reaches out their hands to their neighbors. Once the song is done, the participants rush to the middle of the circle, still holding hands, and then pull the circle back out. Lastly, they turn under their arms to face outwards with hands still together. The circle and holding of hands tradition appears in other areas throughout the world. Queen Elizabeth II followed the practice at the Millennium Dome celebrations for the 2000 new year.

The song isn’t only used to ring in the new year. It has also been heard at funerals, parties and other parting events. In Japan, their song, “Hotaru no hikari” was played at graduations and is still used to close shops at the end of the day.

However, the song may be used, its lyrics and tune binds people throughout the world. It is a song of friendship, of old times, and coming back together.

As the characters Harry and Sally once exchanged in the movie When Harry Met Sally:

HARRY: “What does this song mean?”...I mean ‘should old acquaintances be forgot?’ Does that mean that we should forget old acquaintances, or does it mean if we happened to forget them, we should remember them…?”

SALLY: “Well, maybe it just means that we should remember that we forgot them or something. Anyway, it’s about old friends.”

Let’s just say, the words to “Auld Lang Syne” will always be heard throughout the world on January 1st. “For auld lang syne, my dear.”

Out & About in Winston-Salem

with Whimsical Women – Celebrating and Supporting Women and Their Art

by CAROLYN S PETERSON

26 years ago, two sisters, Luli Sanderford and Linda Palladino, decided to honor their mother’s memory with an event to gather women together to support each other to create and sell their artwork. Luli and Linda grew up with their mother, Ellen Brown, an amazing and creative seamstress. Upon her passing, they took comfort in making art. It wasn’t long before Whimsical Women was founded to encourage women to not only create art, but give them a place to sell it, as well. Since the first Whimsical Women in 1996, the event has grown in participants and in attendees.

Some

“You’ve Come a Long Way!”

The first Whimsical Women event in 1996 was in the front yard of the house of a local artist with a dozen or so artists, and now it has grown to almost 100 artists with more than 1,500 in attendance in five hours!

“Whimsical Women took place on November 19, 2022 at Bailey Park in downtown Winston-Salem, and it did not disappoint with the variety of artwork presented or in attendees. We had more than 1,500 in attendance for a free art festival like no other! Live music from The Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs greeted shoppers as they arrived at the show’s main entrance by the Bailey Park Fountain. After walking through the giant balloon heart, shoppers saw almost 100 artists selling everything you can imagine from pottery to jewelry to gourd art and glass…all one-of-a-kind pieces handcrafted by women! In addition to shopping from the artists, attendees could grab a bite from Sur Chilean, the femaleowned food truck that was onsite or from the The Popcorn Ladies who were making kettle corn onsite,” said Tabatha Renegar, Whimsical Women committee chairwoman.

Another Woman to Honor

While Whimsical Women was founded to honor Luli and Linda’s mother, this year the event shifted gears to honor a cherished friend.

“The 2022 show was called Whimsical Women: Love and Light, to honor Linda Palladino, one of the beloved founding sisters of the event, who lost her battle with cancer in July 2022. An amazing art raffle at the show raised money in Linda’s honor that was donated to the Kay Yow fund,” Tabatha commented.

For more information about Whimsical Women, visit whimsicalwomen.org, or find them on Facebook and Instagram!

Reanna Ruark, Miss Forsyth County USA 2023, is excited to express her loyalty to her community by participating in the Miss North Carolina USA 2023 pageant. Reanna, a life-long resident of Belews Creek, is passionate about growing her skills of interior design, promoting a healthy lifestyle for herself and those around her, and volunteering with the 11/11 Veteran Project, a service designed to support veterans and their families. Reanna is looking forward to representing her passions, her community, and her local sponsors in the February 2023 state pageant.

Celebrations

Congratulations to everyone who helped Chrystal Yates exceed another annual fundraising goal for Kyler’s Kards! $5750 was donated to give to families who spent their Christmas at Brenner Children’s Hospital, bringing Chrystal’s collective donation total to $19,685 in the last six years!

Congratulations to the Calvary Day School Varsity Men’s Soccer Team!

2022 NCISAA 3A State Champions

HEAD COACH: Ben Kerth

ASSISTANT COACH: Chris Hales

ASSISTANT COACH: Dan Shults

Anderson Griggs

Riley Reece

Ben Temple

Mason Sowers

Blake Whittle

Ward Griggs

Lawson Morris

Echo Htoo

Jonah Brittingham

Alex DeBose

Preston Redfield

Jacob Winters

Dane Cassada

Georgie Ciocoi

Blake Toburen

John Cochrane

Trin Rehm Micah Hudnall

Sam Rosser

Nathan Keegan

To learn more about Calvary Day School, please visit www.calvaryday.school or call 336.765.5546.

A Mindful Mom:

“Moms Never Let Go First”

by TRIAD MOMS ON MAIN BLOGGER ELLEN BRYANT LLOYD

“Moms never let go first.”

I will never forget my mom speaking these words into my ear as she gave me a huge, especially meaningful hug.

She had waited until I saw her in person to share a positive medical report, then gave me one of her signature, tight hugs. I am all about long hugs, but her hugs seemed especially long this time; so long that I started wondering if she was okay or if she had gotten emotional.

While continuing the embrace, I asked, “Are you okay?”

She replied, “I’m waiting for you to let go first.”

“What

do you mean?”

“I never let go first when I hug my children. Moms never let go first. My mom didn’t, and I never do either.”

Chills rushed over my body with the instant realization that I did the same thing. From the first hug with each of my children, I have never let go first. I always release my embrace after they release theirs.

The funny thing is that I never noticed this about my mom or grandmother, nor did anyone ever tell me that this might be something I may want to consider as a mom. To me, it intuitively felt like the “right” thing to do, although I did not give it much thought. It is just something I did.

“Follow the Child”

This experience made me think about Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, educator and innovator who created an educational method founded on the principle, “follow the child, but follow the child as his leader.”

Although it may be hard at times, I believe it is important to let children decide when they are ready to try something new or let something go. To branch out and explore a new area or wait a little longer because they are not quite ready. Children need positive role models, parental encouragement and to be shown examples of what it looks like to make good choices and do the right thing, but following their lead seems to me to make the most sense in the big picture of helping them to grow into their full, best selves.

I believe children with opportunities to be internally motivated and guided are more attuned to following their internal compass as adults. They will naturally make good decisions, treat people well and live a life that is in alignment with having strong morals and values.

“Moms Never Let Go First”

I doubt my mom or grandmother consciously made the connection with never releasing their hugs first to raising independent, self-sufficient children who become happy, successful adults, but I truly believe the connection is real. It seems to me that letting our children let go first is a signal that we trust their timing for what is right for them.

Even though my children are now adults, I still never let go first. Every hug from them is a wonderful gift that I cherish. Besides, I am their mom and as my mom said, “Moms never let go first.”

For more articles like this, log on to www.TriadMomsOnMain.com

Jasmin Rivera

5th Grade

Caleb’s Creek Elementary

Elizabeth Darrah, Art Teacher

Esmeralda Mata-Salcedo

5th Grade

South Fork Elementary

Kristen Kluttz, Art Teacher

Eleanor Aiken

12th Grade

Reagan High School

Jennifer Willard, Art Teacher

“Great art picks up where nature ends.”

~ Marc Chagall

Reinforcing Manners and Respect

by SUSAN WOODALL

Recently, I read this question posed on a social media site, “Does there seem to be a lack of manners and respect in our youth? And, if so, why?” The responses were overwhelmingly “yes.” It gave me pause to compare the lessons taught to my sister and me by our parents, rules to be observed and followed, respect to be shown to others and what is expected of children today.

A lot has changed since I was a child – some things for the better and others not so much. Certainly, the formality of my younger years has changed, and it was even relaxed some then. I am referring to a dress code. After school, I came home and changed into play clothes unless there were after-school plans that required me to stay in my dress. As dinner time approached, the table was set, my mother, my sister and I dressed for dinner waiting for my father to get home from work. We all sat down together, said the blessing, we talked about our day, the TV was never on unless there was an important news event, we ate what was served, asked to be excused before leaving the table and thanked Mom for dinner. It was like a scene from the “Donna Reed” or “Father Know Best” show – you have to be older to appreciate that.

Today, our society has become much less formal. I appreciate a lot of the change, but wish some aspects had stayed in place. Families are so busy now with all their comings and goings, it’s sometimes hard to sit down as a family to enjoy a meal. TVs are on, and conversation is at a minimum; no one asks to be excused and a “thank you” is rare. So, who is at fault? Our reliance on technology has a lot to do with it, but we can only blame it for so much. We have to hold ourselves responsible as parents and even grandparents for not setting boundaries and teaching our children and grandchildren to be mannerly and respectful. This goes to many more facets of life besides table manners.

Respondents to the question cited several manners that seem to have gotten lost with the passage of time. I remember my grandmother’s take on the golden rule, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. Her saying was, “be ye kind one to another.” This is one we should all embrace and instill in our grandchildren.

Other comments included saying “please” and “thank you.” It’s so easy to ask for something and forgetting to include a “please” and “thank you” in your request. My mother used to just look at me waiting to hear those words before acting on them. As a young child, it didn’t take long to realize what words she was waiting for me to add. Speaking when spoken to, proper use of a knife and fork, not talking with your mouth full and “thank you” letters were all mentioned.

Other signs of manners and respect to be taught don’t need words. For example, holding the door open for the person coming in front or behind you; taking off your hat or cap for many different reasons – such as the singing of our National Anthem at a sporting event; giving up your seat to someone elderly or disabled; helping out without needing to be told or expecting something in return.

As this is the beginning of a new year, we should resolve to show and teach our grandchildren, and remind ourselves, to respect others. Good manners never go out of style, we just forget to use them at times. Even something as simple as a smile, a “thank you” or a simple compliment could make someone’s day and doesn’t cost a thing! What a great lesson for our grandchildren and easy examples we can set for them.

The

View from My Section – A Father’s Perspective

“Little boy blue and the man in the moon…”

by A. KEITH TILLEY

There’s an interesting posting on social media by entrepreneur and writer Sahil Bloom. In it, he summarizes six graphs of data (source: American Time Use Survey. Our World in Data.) on how humans spend their time throughout most of their life (age 15 to 85), divided into six categories (a rise is more, and a drop is less time spent accordingly). Note, the data I reference is from his source; however, the comments and assumptions included here are all mine.

First, is the “time spent with parents and siblings.” The chart indicates beginning at age 15, the line immediately drops steeply in time spent until it levels out at a much lower range at age 24 and beyond. The initial sharp decline likely occurs when one begins to drive, and continues when one goes to college or begins a full-time job. At age 24 and beyond, the consistent low-level interaction is possibly the cumulative average of time spent mostly on the phone, combined with more infrequent visits. Most notable here is that after teens begin to drive, parents can expect to see continually less and less of their children henceforth; this helps you view their license from a different perspective.

Slide two relates to “time spent with friends.” Here, the time spent together increases sharply from age 16 to 19. Likely a result of getting their driver’s license. However, from age 19, the time together begins to drop sharply to their late 20s, until it softens and plateaus between the mid to late 30s. It seems our high school years are when we are making the most connections in quantity and time spent. Those connections dwindle to a select group by the time we’re in our 30s, and they’re the ones we appear to remain with from that point forward. If you’re currently in your 20s, you may want to consider whom you’re spending your life moments with presently, that you think will stand the test of time.

Slide three is “time spent with your life partner.” Here, not surprisingly, it’s at its lowest at age 15. From there, it rises sharply to age 32 when it plateaus, until age 61. At this age, it rises sharply again and continues until the end. If you’re in the 30-59 age range, it’s important to continuously strengthen your bond with your partner. Find ways to make his or her life easier, happier and healthier. You’ll need this in the next phase of your relationship, where true love, patience, understanding and compassion are displayed to their fullest.

Slide four looks at “parents’ time spent with their children.” Here the time trends sharply upwards from age 18 until age 33. It plateaus between ages 33 and 40 and begins its sharp downward trajectory until age 60. From age 60 forward, the downward trend is softer, yet is still continuous. It appears that a parent’s impact is felt significantly until their children reach 40. By then, my assumption is the children’s children are growing up, and with time spent relating to their children’s

adult problems now, combined with empty nest syndrome, I imagine they’re just trying to figure their lives out at this stage. This leaves less time for their parents.

Slide five is “time with coworkers.” Here it rises sharply at age 16 to 24, where it plateaus and remains constant until your mid-50s. From there, it declines consistently until retirement. This graph, in showing the remarkable amount of time spent with coworkers for essentially three decades or more, emphasizes the importance of liking your work, along with most of the people you work with. The impact is tremendous.

Lastly, slide six is about “time spent alone.” Here, it rises steadily from ages 15 to 20, plateaus from 20 to 40, and then begins to sharply rise further from that point forward. Interestingly, from your late 40s onward, your time spent alone is twice as much as the time spent with your life partner. This would indicate our ability to be alone with ourselves is a skill one needs to hone carefully and successfully, otherwise, it can be a difficult journey.

We can gather important points from all this. Our choice of life partners and occupations play a significant role in how our lives turn out – so choose wisely. Ultimately, we end up with only a handful of lasting, sincere friendships; take this into account and nurture those relationships. And, Harry Chapin said it best (Cats In The Cradle) when it comes to parents and children. Cherish every moment with them, and hope they’ll return the favor someday. Finally, your time spent alone, combined with your partner, represents the overwhelming majority of your life. Thus, indicating the importance of learning to love yourself, along with nurturing and enriching your relationship with your partner, in order to achieve maximum fulfillment in your life.

“It is the time you spend on your rose that makes your rose so important.” – Quote from “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

To comment and see more, visit theviewfrommysection.com.

Feeling sluggish after one too many Christmas cookies? Bring in the new year with a looser belt and a healthy blood pressure reading. Advancebased Healthy Made Simple is a healthy meal service that provides fresh, quality meals for individuals of all lifestyles and medical backgrounds. Pam Baker started Healthy Made Simple after a tough divorce left her wondering how to reinvent herself as a stay-at-home. With years of experience as a personal trainer and an event planner, Pam combined her knowledge of health and nutrition with a strong business acumen to serve clients looking for convenient, delicious meals designed to help them reach their goals.

Inspired by the postpartum success she experienced by using the WeightWatchers weight-loss program, Pam began educating her personal training clients on the program. In fact, Healthy Made Simple was born after one of her clients expressed a desire to have WeightWatchers-friendly foods prepared for them to make the program more convenient. In January 2016, Pam began cooking out of her home kitchen for clients and friends until she met her current husband, Inkem Baker, who supported her in starting a commercial kitchen in Advance in 2018.

Healthy Made Simple creates convenient, nutritious, calorieconscious meals for clients with all dietary needs without compromising taste. The Bakers have perfected their recipes, making their meals so enticing and easy to serve that clients no longer have the temptation to resort to unhealthy, quick alternatives. Customers are able to choose from various cuisines, with Mexican enchiladas winning one of the

A New Year’s Resolution You Can Stick To

by AMY HILL

most requested meals among clients. Pam and Inkem also plan seasonal menu items, such as hearty casseroles and warm stews for cold winter months, and light pastas and salads for the summer. Customers can order for themselves, or even order family style meals that serve up to four to six people. Healthy Made Simple meals are ideal for providing delicious, ready-toeat meals to busy households that don’t want to resort to ultra-processed frozen meals or fast food after long days of school, work and sports. Professionals with packed schedules can bring Healthy Made Simple meals to work for guilt-free lunches on the job, or come home to a refrigerator full of appetizing pre-made entrees to take the burden of cooking off their already full plates.

The Bakers encounter many customers from out of town who use Healthy Made Simple to feed elderly parents or loved ones as an alternative to timeconsuming and costly meal-prepping routines. With chaotic lives leaving little time to cook, Healthy Made Simple customers can rest assured their loved ones have well-rounded, nutritious meals daily. Give the gift of convenience to friends and family members for birthdays, holidays and anniversaries with a Healthy Made Simple gift certificate.

week before Wednesday at midnight. Meals are prepared on Sundays and are available for delivery or pick-up each Monday. Meals remain edible for up to a week in the refrigerator and are made from high-quality ingredients and organic produce. Portioncontrolled meals with the WeightWatchers program in mind help clients reduce calories without feeling deprived.

Healthy Made Simple customers can also take advantage of the Carrot Club rewards program, where clients earn points for each dollar spent on meals, by sharing news and updates on social media, birthdays and referrals. Points never expire and accumulate for clients to redeem discounts on meals.

Healthy Made Simple helped Pam rise up from the ashes of a divorce and create a brand new career for herself that she is passionate about. Pam’s vision also allows others a chance to reinvent themselves by reaching health and weight-loss goals. One client informed Pam that he lost 25 pounds after only six to eight weeks of Healthy Made Simple meals, which is just one success story of many.

Each Sunday, a new Healthy Made Simple menu is posted on the website, prompting customers to purchase their selection of meals for the upcoming

Interested in eating with Healthy Made Simple? Visit the website at hmsimple.com to learn more about the Bakers, meal plan options and the Carrot Club rewards program. The Healthy Made Simple kitchen is located at 1116 NC-801, Advance, NC 27006. Check out Healthy Made Simple on Facebook, and follow @healthymadesimple_ws on Instagram to learn more.

Event details are subject to change. Please check event wesite and social media pages for updates as the dates draw near.

TANGLEWOOD PARK FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

6 PM to 11PM, Tanglewood Park in Clemmons.

Open nightly. Tickets may be purchased at the gate upon entry and in advance at the Welcome Center at Tanglewood Park. The gift village will be open with snacks, hot cocoa and marshmallow roasting. Prices start at $20/car.

JANUARY JUBILEE SALE

Open M-Sat 10am-6pm, Simply Sterling & Company, 5275 Robinhood Village Drive. Fancy name for a major inventory reduction! Also, mark your calendars for the 14th Annual Breakfast at Simply Sterling Shopping Event on Saturday, February 4th. Visit SimplySterling.com for more information.

WINTER SALE AT FRALEIGH’S BOUTIQUE

Open M-F 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Fraleigh’s Boutique, 2626 Lewisville-Clemmons Road in Clemmons. Visit FraleighsBoutiqueNC.com for more information.

WINMOCK SIP & SEE 10am-2pm, Winmock at Kinderton

If you are seeking the perfect venue to host your wedding or special event, we invite you to schedule a private tour with a seasoned tour guide who can assist you in envisioning your celebration here at WinMock. The venue will be designed in elaborate detail by a group of handpicked experts. Trust us when we say this isn’t your typical venue tour. Feel free to spend some time enjoying music, bubbly and treats at our open house either before or after your scheduled tour time. To schedule your guided tour of WinMock, please visit the website to secure a tour time. We can’t wait to host you! In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.

STYX: 2023 WORLD TOUR 7:30pm, Steven Tanger Center in Greensboro.

The essence of Styx is defined by harmony, chemistry, balance, grit, dexterity, determination and solidarity. The successful rock band has forged a legacy on albums and onstage. Styx has now added a new chapter to their story: “The Mission.” It’s the band’s 16th album. Tickets start at $45/person.

WINTER SALES EVENT AT TEDDY’S TACTICAL Teddy’s Tactical in Clemmons.

Enjoy a winter sales event. Use discount Snowy10 for 10% off at TeddyTactical.com.

EVERYBODY SAYS DON’T: JOHN CARDEN SINGS BROADWAY 7:30pm, Watson Hall at UNCSA Campus.

John Carden, a 1988 alumnus from UNCSA, performs a program of works from musical theater and Broadway. Carden is the youngest countertenor to be awarded a contract at The Metropolitan Opera. Tickets are $20/adult and $15/student.

FUTURE

STEPHEN KING’S MISERY 8pm, Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance.

“Misery” follows Paul Sheldon, a successful romance novelist, who is rescued from an auto crash by his biggest fan. She takes him home and forces him to write a new “Misery” novel and has no intention of letting him go. Tickets are $21/adult and $19/student.

TRIPLE J MANOR HOUSE SIP & SEE 10am-1pm, Triple J Manor House.

Sip and See will allow you to come experience Triple J Manor House beautifully dressed up for a special event, learn about the venue from our tour guides, see the work of our wonderful vendor partners and sip on a delicious hot drink. Beginning in the foyer, the room will be complete with vendor information on display. The knoll will be setup as a mock ceremony, the porch as a cocktail hour flow setup and the manor room as a mix and mingle reception. The day will consist of guided tours with Triple J Venue Coordinators as well as allow you to roam freely, enjoy the space and envision their upcoming big days!

RIDERS IN THE SKY

7-9pm, The Historic Earle Theatre, Surry Arts Council.

Join us for an evening of award-winning harmonies, wacky Western wit and high-yodeling adventures with Riders in the Sky. The group has made an astonishing 7,200+ appearances, 35 years on the Grand Ole Opry, 40 records albums (well, now CDs) and tours of all 50 states and all over the world. Not to mention, they sung “Woody’s Roundup” in the movie “Toy Story 2” and highlighted a number of projects for Disney, including two albums that won Grammys! What began as a celebration of classic Western Music and an evening of hilarity has become a career, and that career has become a legend; one which, 40 years on, shows no signs of stopping or even slowing down much.

ABWA FORSYTH CHAPTER MONTHLY MEETING 6-8pm, Maple Chase Golf and County Club.

6-8pm, Maple Chase Golf and County Club. The Forsyth Chapter of ABWA is one of the many ABWA Chapters and networks in the Piedmont Triad Area. Our chapter has been in existence for more than 30 years. We invite you to visit with us or another ABWA chapter or network to learn more about this national organization. We offer opportunities for education, personal and professional growth, networking, friendship and fellowship. Our January 2023 meeting with leadership presentation given by Mare Hutchinson as our guest speaker. The leadership topic for our January meeting will be “The Hats of leadership.” Come join us for our monthly meeting, and see how ABWA Forsyth can enrich your personal and professional life.

FORSYTH WOMAN MAGAZINE’S WOMEN ON THE MOVE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

9am – 5pm, WinMock at Kinderton.

Forsyth Woman Magazine’s “Women on the Move” initiative comes to life through it’s Second Annual Women on the Move Leadership Conference happening on Monday, March 20th, 2023. Forsyth Woman will bring together local leading ladies, from those in business, to owners and entrepreneurs, for an all-day event full of impactful presentations, networking, shopping, food + drinks, and more.

Learn more and purchase your ticket at tinyurl.com/WOMC2023

in this month’s issue.

Jodie Brim, Photographer + Creative Director

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