Calling All Defenders of Wildlife

PART 5: The Bog Turtle

BY LISA S.T. DOSS

The diversity of North Carolina’s three sub-biomes, namely the coastal plains, Piedmont, and the mountains, reveals varieties of forest and non-forest ecosystems. Based on our consistent levels of precipitation and four distinct seasons, we live in the biome of a temperate deciduous forest. It’s no wonder our climate attracts diverse species of colorful birds and smaller mammals, as well as dangerous creatures, from the rattlesnake to the southern black widow spider. In the mountain regions, outside WinstonSalem, live black bears, bobcats, and coyote. And perhaps the cougar is not extinct, but resurging in numbers. Unless searching for specific names of birds, insects, aquatic vertebrae, and mammals in the Piedmont Triad, you won’t be aware of creatures that no longer fly, swim, or walk here. In calling all defenders of wildlife, it’s essential to know why our ecosystem is on the verge of losing valuable creatures.

Can you hear the melodious sound of babble when standing outside your home? Off in the distance, rippling currents force the water’s movement around, between, and over rocks. Barriers, such as a burrowing family of muskrats, entice the waterway into soft soil, creating yet another curve in the pathway. In time, the hollow expands, leaving behind erosion, or dividing the creek into another shallow watercourse. Without investigating the dynamic habitat of native trees, shrubs, grasses, and flowers, most people completely disregard the essential eco-system of finned and legged walkers living nearby. The very path of your waterway merges into expansive streams and rivers. Without our really knowing the effects, plant herbicides and storm runoffs from roofs, streets, and parking lots filter into our waterways. From either direction, the creatures that swim, fly, and walk are in trouble.

The Bog Turtle

Near the wet, grassy creeks in Forsyth County is home to one of the smallest turtles in North America. Spanning the width of an adult hand, bog turtles possess bright-orange or yellow patches on the side of their neck and can live for 50 years. The wet meadow devoid of trees allows the reptile to bask in sunny areas, or dive into the mud to escape predators or extreme temperatures. Humans, mostly disreputable pet traders, pluck it from its environment, limiting its lifespan for cash. With an agreement between the Natural Resource Conservation Service and private landowners to protect and maintain the habitat, the bog turtles can survive. Listed as critically endangered, its numbers currently hover between 2,500 and 10,000.

The Triad Ecosystem

Beyond the residential plots of houses, trimmed grasses, and concrete, there are few functioning ecosystems remaining. Prairies have transitioned to farmlands, and woodlands made room for the developmental needs of humans. Each time we lose a species, it impacts the benefits of our own life. Currently, North Carolina is home to 10.5 million human residents and is the 10th fastest-growing state in the country. In welcoming new families and the expansion of companies, we must also research and protect the 61 federally threatened and endangered species.

Hikes and Trails

Begin your effort by becoming a hiker, a walker of trails, and make it a point to visit the numerous parks near and far. Have you experienced the sevenmile trail at Salem Lake or the 11-mile loop through forest and wetlands at the Piedmont Environmental Center? It’s certainly not far from home. (To learn more, Google the “25 Top Hikes in the Triad Area.”)

Expand your desire to see more and learn about the growing list of endangered species by visiting statewide arboretums, botanical gardens, and national parks.

Ways to Help the Wild

• It begins with helping a variety of animals establish a home.

• Build bat, butterfly, and bird houses to offer protection against predators and to encourage repopulation.

• Choose native trees, such as oaks, birch, maples, and others, to feed and offer a home to creatures.

• Do not purchase, and try to eliminate, invasive, non-native species of plants, shrubs, and trees that cannot offer nutritional value to our insects and birds.

• Wildflower gardens, including those harboring milkweed, lure Monarch butterflies and other beneficial pollinators. These care-free habitats can improve soil health and prevent erosion.

Educational Preparedness for the Next Level: MIDDLE SCHOOL

Elementary schools opened the door wide enough for children to experience routine, rules, and a foundation of learning within a cozy, tight-knit community of classmates. Teachers took time during small group instruction and one-on-one meetings to focus on improving individual weaknesses, while building confidence levels! Inspirational words helped encourage children not to fear the size of the junior high campus and immersion into block scheduling. As the door of educational and social opportunity extends farther, rising sixth-graders will need a balance of independence and guidance.

Calendar Skills

For the remainder of the summer, rising sixth-graders should practice utilizing their desk calendar to good purpose.

1. Preteens can resume the responsibility of keeping track of meetings and activities by simply writing dates down.

And, don’t forget to cross off each task upon completion! It’s a great feeling!

2. Make sure your preteen knows how to create a daily to-do list, prioritizing tasks and encouraging time management.

This can include tasks such as walk the dog, empty the dishwasher, vacuum, and read two chapters.

3. Teachers will challenge students to read independently and will present a quiz on a designated day; therefore, encourage your child to set weekly goals. Procrastination impacts many intelligent students, especially if they disregard their daily and monthly calendars!

Processing Information

Every student can verbalize how they feel about the words “write,” “calculate,” “read,” and “take notes” with one facial expression! The trick to working through difficult tasks is to discover effective organizational methods and tools. For instance, the act of notetaking takes time and practice. Audiobooks, for example, increase the ability to process information and improve listening. Perhaps reading is a strength; then, think about writing key words in color to enhance your visual memory, or begin using index cards. Some people need to talk through directions, reading prompts, and computations. Try it out! If it doesn’t work, find a new method! No one is born with excellent organizational skills; however, students can create success with the aid of a handful of ideal strategies!

Establishing Open Dialogue

The mindset of a child drastically changes from age 11 to 12. The child who once loved strawberries and tomatoes may soon show disdain because a classmate claimed the color red was offensive! The fun-loving cheerleader may turn in an assignment late because she didn’t want to read it in front of her classmates. Between mood swings and issues involving navigating through loyal friendships, the arrival of adolescence will place a new priority into open dialogue and confirming self acceptance! Nonfiction and fiction novels can illustrate how real people and characters solve the difficulties of social drama. Through themes of a novel, parents can help ’tweens see themselves as heroes of their own stories! BY LISA S.T. DOSS

Making Decisions

Between sixth and seventh grade, children will try to distance themselves from parents and seek opportunities for social interaction with each other. More than ever, preteens and teens need to engage in activities at school and discover new interests, while expanding their social circles. It’s allowing your child to become safely involved in the community. Trust borders with a fine line at times. The goal of the awkward pubescent years requires guidance, providing an anchor of support, and learning from the mistakes that will indeed include heartbreak, embarrassment, and a feeling of failure. Through those moments, the middle school child will grow!

Parents will miss the intimate relationships from their child’s elementary school teachers. Don’t worry, middle school teachers are not hands-off. They will require you to openly communicate difficulties as well as positive experiences occurring at home. The triangle connecting parents, teachers, and students still exists, although it will include twice as many staff members. They will expect students to be subject to a learning curve when it comes to lockers, changing classrooms, organizing notebooks and binders, and studying for exams—all within the layers of friendship dramas, new academic rigors, and puberty. Work together!

NEXT MONTH: Educational Preparedness for High School

TOP 5 MUST-VISIT NATIONAL PARKS IN THE UNITED STATES

BY MEGAN TAYLOR

No matter what time of the year you plan to travel, national parks throughout the United States are great places to visit. These bucket-list spots are full of wonder and rich in history. Our nation is home to 419 national parks. If you plan on traveling to each one in the future, it may take some time. To help narrow down your list, here are the national parks you may want to visit first.

1The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona: President Teddy Roosevelt coined the saying, “[This is] the one great sight which every American should see.” Made an official national monument and park in 1908, the Grand Canyon was created by the Colorado River. Today, visitors can look at the majestic sights of the various canyons, rivers, and tributaries. In addition, you can camp, visit Grand Canyon Village, walk the Trail of Time, whitewater raft on the river, and more. All of these exciting sights and activities make the Grand Canyon National Park one of the most visited destinations in the world. 2 Yosemite National Park in California: Nearly 1,200 square miles in size, Yosemite National Park is known for its waterfalls, valleys, wilderness, and more. Favorite spots among travelers are Glacier Point, Crane Flat Area, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. These three areas are just a few spots from which to view the beauty of the land and waterfalls, the groves of sequoia trees (in fact, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias houses over 500 trees alone), and rock formations. All of the national parks listed have sights that can’t be missed, but the sights of Yosemite National Park are ones that stand out from the others.

3Denali National Park in Alaska: Located in Anchorage, Alaska, Denali National Park is home to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and Mount McKinley, North America’s tallest mountain. Visitors can take part in other activities, such as hiking and zip-lining. However, a trip to the Denali National Park wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Husky Homestead. Iditarod Champion, Jeff King, runs the Husky Homestead, which gives travelers a chance to learn about The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, cuddle with Alaskan Husky puppies, and see racing sleds, Arctic survival gear, and more. The well-known race is yearly, in early March. Mushers and their team of 14 dogs must travel from Anchorage to Nome in 8 to 15 days or more. Want more of a relaxing trip to Denali? A visit to Anchorage allows people a chance to see the mountain range from a distance.

4Cumberland Gap National Historical Park in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia: A little closer to the Tarheel state is the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Part of the Cumberland Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, the Cumberland Gap is known for being a key passageway through the lower central section of the Appalachian Mountains. It was first used by Native Americans and later on by explorers, pioneers, and frontiersmen, including Daniel Boone. Today, travelers can see sites that have been called “the first great gateway to the west,” camp, bike, and hike at the Wilderness Road State Park and be in three states at once at the Tri-State Peak.

5Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in North Carolina: North Carolina is home to many national parks. In fact, one is just a half-hour or so away in Greensboro. The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is the site of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse during the Revolutionary War. Major General Nathanael Greene’s militia and the Continental Army fought against Lord Charles Earl Cornwallis and his army on March 15, 1781. Today people of all ages can do a self-guided cell-phone tour, visit the Hoskins Farmstead (an 18th-century farmstead owned originally by Joseph and Hannah Hoskins), and walk throughout the battlefield. History and military fans will spend hours at the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park learning all the unique information the site has to offer.

These five national parks are just a few of the many sites to visit throughout the United States. Start with the ones closest to you, then keep venturing out from there. You’ll be glad you did.

How to Spot, Avoid and Report Coronavirus Scams

Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus. The Federal Trade Commission offers these tips to help you fight back.

Treatments & Cures Truliant n Government Relief Checks Ignore online offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Expect scammers to take advantage of this. Here’s what If you see ads touting prevention, treatment, or cure you need to know: The government will not ask you to claims for the Coronavirus, stop. If there’s a medical pay anything up front to get this money. The government breakthrough, you’re not going to hear about it for the will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank first time from an ad or sales pitch. account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is Email and Text Scams a scammer. Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. It could n Fake Charities download a virus onto your computer or device. Make Do your homework when it comes to donations. Use sure the antimalware and anti-virus software on your the organizations listed at ftc.gov/charity to help you computer is up to date. research charities. If someone wants donations in cash, Robocalls by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it. Hang up on illegal robocallers. Don’t press any numbers. n Misinformation & Rumors The recording might say that pressing a number will let Before you pass on any messages, do some fact checking you speak to a live operator or remove you from their by contacting trusted sources. Visit usa.gov/coronavirus call list, but it might lead to more robocalls, instead. for links to federal, state and local government agencies. Report suspicious claims or questionable practices to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.

Source: Federal Trade Commission

Ne w SUMMER HOURS MOND AY (by appt . only) TUESD AY thr ough FRID AY 10am t o 6pm SA TURD AY S 10am t o 5pm DO : Pe rfect Pi cnic Centerpieces easily by using fun containers, flags, pinwheels & sparkling picks Add blueberries for the Pe rfect July Pi cnic! Dero’sDero’s Pin Board Bright colored napkins, themed table runners and placemats to add an extra punch to an otherwise plain tableclot h Ribbons added to chairs, glassware & corners of tablecloths

Strawberries & Cream Cake Create menu labels for food items & place card s

Ingr edients 24 oz. frozen sliced strawberries in syrup, thawed 1 Strawberries & Cream Cheeseball Mix 1 Angel food cake 8 oz. cream cheese 4 Tbsp. butter

Dir ections In mixing bowl combine Cheeseball Mix, cream cheese and butter; mix until smooth. Cut angel food cake in half horizontally until you have two layers. Spread half of the Cheeseball Mix on top of the entire bottom layer . Lay top layer of angel food cake on top of the Cheeseball Mix layer . Spread remainder of Cheeseball Mix on top of cake. Pour sliced strawberries over entire cake.

Optional: Use low fat cream cheese and omit the butter for a lower fat version.

COMMITTED TO KEEPING FAMILIES STRONG AT HOME

For many of us, this year is nothing like we imagined it would be. So many big events, celebrations and even family reunions have been canceled.

Right now, the most privileged of us are safe at home. But that’s not the story for everyone.

For victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual assault, home can be one of the most dangerous places during the COVID-19 crisis. Increased anxiety and depression are also symptoms of self isolation.

As our community continues to face unprecedented challenges during this pandemic, Family Services launched a new landing page StrongAtHome.org, to promote our ongoing services in domestic violence, sexual assault, and counseling.

Our message is simple: • YOU ARE NOT ALONE. • WE ARE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US. • THIS IS WHAT WE DO.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

While Family Services has not yet seen a visible uptick in the number of local domestic violence reports, our experts at Safe On Seven say they have reason to believe that cases are, in fact, on the rise.

Despite the fact that the number of crisis line calls and walk-ins are down, Safe on Seven Program Manager Meredith Hooks said she believes the number of domestic violence cases is increasing, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made it harder for people to get help.

“Often that crisis line call will be made when the abuser is at work or when she’s taking the children to school. None of that is happening right now as people are working from home or they’ve lost their jobs,” Hooks said.

If you are experiencing a crisis involving domestic violence, please call the 24-hour crisis line. Help is just a phone call away. 336-723-8125

SEXUAL ASSAULT

The truth is, at times like these, victims and survivors of sexual assault could be isolated and confined in or near their homes where sexual abuse may be taking place.

We also know that because of the potential close proximity of perpetrators, coming forward to report incidents of sexual assault can sometimes be challenging at times like this.

• Based on 2018-19 data, nearly 2,500

North Carolina children under the age of 18, and more than 6,700 adults were sexually assaulted. • 28 percent of those victims were assaulted by a relative. • Another 28 percent were assaulted by an acquaintance. • 8 out of 10 perpetrators in sexual assault cases are known to the victim. • 83 percent of sexual assaults occur in or near a victim’s home.

That’s why Family Services domestic violence and sexual assault hotlines stand ready to assist and support.

If you have been violated—in some way—by someone, whether you were assaulted minutes ago, days ago or years ago, Family Services is here to help. 336-722-4457

COUNSELING

As a result of living day after day of this crisis, our friends and neighbors are experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression. Mental health is really taking center stage in the invisible injuries suffered during this pandemic, as people look for new ways to deal with stress, frustration, and even anger.

In such times it can be very helpful to have someone compassionately listen and help you sort through issues in a confidential manner.

Family Services is open for video-based counseling sessions and we are accepting new referrals.

We provide an array of outpatient therapy, counseling support and educational programs to help children, adults and families cope with challenges in their lives.

Our therapists address common concerns, including: • Anxiety and depression • Stress or anger management • Relationship difficulties • Separation and divorce • Adjustment/transitional issues • Domestic violence • Physical and sexual abuse • Grief and loss • Parenting/child behavioral concerns • Trauma • Workplace issues

To request telehealth (video-based) counseling services. You will be able to leave a message and our Intake Specialist will return your call as soon as possible. 336-722-8173

Family Services

Take a Look at Eyes on Trade

BY DENISE HEIDEL PHOTOS BY JEJ PHOTOS

One of the unique characteristics of Winston-Salem is our community’s love for the arts. With the nickname “City of Arts and Innovation,” it’s little wonder that our town is full of creative entrepreneurial spirit! And for a two-yearold business, Eyes on Trade, it’s not just about an eyewear store. It’s a place that embraces everyone’s inner artist…where creative and fashionable eyewear come to be discovered…and where small business supports other small businesses.

ABOUT EYES ON TRADE

“Eyes on Trade offers up the friendly service and inviting atmosphere that confirms the adage that shopping local is the way to go!” ~ William C.

Eyes on Trade is a business with a unique approach to vision. Located in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, Eyes on Trade opened in 2018 to provide affordable and stylish eyewear in a boutique setting. With a special emphasis on style and showcasing the wearer’s personality through eyewear, Eyes on Trade has carved out a niche for themselves in the community.

EYEWEAR AT EYES ON TRADE

“I had the best experience at Eyes on Trade. Maggie was so kind and helpful from the minute I walked in. She patiently helped me find the best frames and made the process fun and enjoyable! My glasses were ready in no time, and they look and feel wonderful. Plus, great prices!” ~ Molly M.

Visitors at Eyes on Trade should not expect to see the standard frames they see at most eyewear stores. But with that said, fashion is truly the name of the game! Patrons enjoy the fun colors and whimsical styles that complement not only the face but are stylish and fashionable, too!

The truly distinctive difference, though, is in the price point. Long-time eyeglass wearers are likely familiar with the problem—you go to pick out frames with a budget in mind, and too often, the pair you pick out is the most expensive in the store! It makes it hard to budget for frames that you’ll want to wear every day!

With two price points at Eyes on Trade, frames are affordable for everyone! The shop offers the “Essential” line for $150 and the “Luxe” collection for $250. Both price points include the frame, SV lens, and anti-glare. It’s a wonderful solution for the budget-conscious fashionista who wants variety in their eyewear at affordable prices. They offer transparent pricing, plus unique frames to create a win for the wearer! And, bonus! They accept most major vision insurance!

Eyes on Trade has frames for everyone in the family, and the majority of the frames are unisex. The staff is extremely knowledgeable about how to match frames to lifestyle and personality. And if someone has a specific frame shape in mind and isn’t sure they can pull it off, the team at Eyes on Trade take it as their personal mission to find exactly what the wearer wants.

SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORTS SMALL BUSINESS

“It’s easy, it’s affordable, and you’ll have an amazing pair of new glasses in two to three weeks, built from a massive, wellcurated selection—and fitted to you for optimal wear, comfort, and stability.” ~ Christopher C.

As a local, woman-owned business, the Eyes on Trade business model is also interested in supporting other small businesses. So while the end result is fashionable frames for glasses wearers, the merchandise that is offered is all sourced from small, independently owned eyewear manufacturers. The business doesn’t support high-end designers, but that does not mean there isn’t plenty of style. But if supporting small business is cool, then Eyes on Trade is a business to be considered. By supporting them, shoppers support small businesses around the world!

MORE THAN EYEWEAR

“Wonderful experience. I was in and out in 30 minutes with an eye exam and ordered new contacts, etc. I would highly recommend!” ~ Cecile S.

While the emphasis is on the retail aspect of the business, Eyes on Trade is also a full-service and independent eye shop, with an optometrist on staff. Dr. WarsiZehri’s specialties include contact lens fittings, anterior and posterior ocular disease management, and overall eye health evaluations.

But for those who don’t want to leave their current eye doctor, outside prescriptions are welcome!

DOWNTOWN CONVENIENCE

“A little bit kooky, a whole lot of cool. The ladies are amazing and friendly.” ~ Manda E.

The location of Eyes on Trade is truly by design. They wanted to be located in the heart of the community, accessible to anyone who wanted affordable, fun, and unique eyewear. Their shop is unlike any eyewear store you’ve likely visited with an edgy and contemporary vibe that is also warm and inviting.

Visit Eyes on Trade at 604 Trade Street NW in Winston-Salem. Call the shop at 336.727.3727 or visit online at www.EyesOnTrade.com. Note: the store is closed on Sunday and Monday. They are open Tuesday—Saturday from 10 AM–7 PM. Be sure to follow and like them on Facebook and Instagram.

THE COVID-19 IMPACT

COVID-19 has changed the world and the way we interact with one another. At Eyes on Trade, several important safety measures are currently in effect for the foreseeable future, including*:

• Shop, or get a frame adjustment by appointment only. Call the store to schedule.

• All shoppers and employees will have a temperature check.

• Patients should wear masks, though masks may be removed long enough to see how frames look on a face.

• Shoppers are discouraged from “looking with their hands.” All frames are handled by store employees and disinfected before they are returned to the shelf.

* Note, these are the policies as of June 2020, when this story was written. They are subject to change.

Please contact the store with any questions or updates to this policy.

Wearing masks is extremely frustrating for eyeglass wearers, who struggle not only with the breathing factor, but the seeing factor. After all, one can’t see through foggy glasses! The Eyes on Trade team have some great tips for glasses-wearers who struggle with their vision while wearing a mask.

• Try to wear a mask with a wire around the nose.

• Invest in medical-grade tape to create an adhesive for the fabric, so the mask will fit closely to your nose.

• Wash your lenses with a gentle detergent every morning before wearing.

• Set the glasses on top of the mask to help close the gap.

Now accepting new patients, 10-7 Tuesday-Saturday. Call today to schedule your eye exam or shopping experience. Prefer to shop from home? Ask about our complimentary virtual styling services.

Eyes on Trade

EYES ON TRADE OPTOMETRY OPTICIANRY