FF June 2023

Happy June!

It’s officially summertime, and I hope that means you have a vacation or two on the calendar! Whether it’s a staycation, traveling internationally or something in-between – I think it’s so important to take some time off and relax with your family and friends.

I want to wish a very Happy Father’s Day to my dad (aka Teej)! His happy place is being out in the sun on the water, and my plan for Father’s Day is to spend it out there with him. He’s taught me more than he could ever know about kindness, patience and love. My parents certainly don’t have a perfect marriage (does anyone?), but watching the way he loves my mom and takes care of her makes my heart happy.

He’s the first one I call when I have any sort of car question, and I’ve never seen a dog get as excited as mine does when he sees my dad. Teej is one of a kind, and I am incredibly grateful that I’m able to have a relationship with him.

This past month has been an exciting one! My best friend, Jill, welcomed her baby girl Madeline to the world on May 5th, and two days later, Briana made Robin (and Tim) Bralley first-time grandparents with baby girl Collins! Congratulations to Jill and Eric AND to Bri and Jonathan!

This month, we are featuring Dr. David Woods and Artist Nico Amortegui on our cover. Dr. Woods took over Salem Smiles Orthodontics in early 2022, and he utilized the talent of Nico to make the space at Salem Smiles even more inviting. You can check out the space and the team at Salem Smiles starting on page 30.

This issue is full of recipes, fun summertime activity ideas, local small business features and so much more. From my team to you, we hope you enjoy this issue! And, if you want more, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter at forsythfamilymagazine.com, follow us on social media @forsythmags and tune in to the Forsyth Magazines podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast or any major streaming platform.

Wishing you a happy and healthy month of June,

PUBLISHER

Brooke Eagle • Brooke@ForsythMags.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Tamara Bodford

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Robin Bralley

ADVERTISING

Advertising@ForsythMags.com

BACK OFFICE & VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

The Office Nerd, Denise Heidel

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Sail Off Photography

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jodie Brim Creative JEJ Photos

Sail Off Photography

*others contributed throughout accordingly

CONTENT EDITOR Meghan Corbett

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Robin Shupe Keller

SENIOR STAFF WRITERS

Martie Emory • Carolyn Peterson

OTHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Casey Cheek Karen Cooper

Angelia Cornatzer Damian Desmond

Tabi Falcone • Bethany Godwin

Brian Jared • Taryn Jerez • Robin Keller

Lauren Sephton • Renee Skudra

Leslie Speas • Megan Taylor

Keith Tilley Susan Woodall

*others credited throughout accordingly

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Laurie Dalton

WEB DESIGN/MAINTENANCE

Next Wave Services

CONTACT

.forsythfamilymagazine.com

888-892-3204

BFORSYTH 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.

JEJ PHOTOS

To the Grieving Child on Father’s Day

by BETHANY GODWIN

Dear Grieving Child,

If you’ve ever heard and felt the saying, “Even in a crowded room, you feel alone,” you’ve likely experienced grief. In my almost 13 years of being a grieving daughter, I’ve learned a lot and also felt a lot of different things. If you’re reading this and you relate to this story, please know I’m so sorry that you’ve lost your dad. My hope in writing this letter is that if you are a grieving child, you might feel a little less alone this month. Everyone’s experience with grief and loss is different, however, there is an unspoken understanding when you’ve lost a parent.

Father’s Day can look different for so many people; it may be a holiday that comes with extensive plans, gift buying, fun activities or delicious meals. It can also be a holiday that is mailing a simple card or just another day. For the grieving child, it can be a holiday that carries with it more emotions than plans and more feelings than words.

I remember in the hours after my father passed away, trying to process that information and what that meant. I remember thinking, “I won’t be buying a Father’s Day present next year.” What an odd thing to think about at a time like this, I thought. I was almost a year away from the next Father’s Day, and there were no mail ads reminding me of the upcoming holiday or pressure to be making the perfect plans. Yet, it was one of the first things I thought of where it would be noticeable that my “normal” life was not going to feel normal anymore. I just lost my father, so what was I supposed to do or feel when the focus of the day was on the person I just lost?

Give Yourself Permission

As you are approaching the date, you may be feeling dread and anticipation of how the day might feel to you. In my years of grieving, one thing has remained true – it’s human to have assumptions of how we might feel, but grief can take the predictability out of almost anything. As you approach this holiday, allow yourself to wonder about how you will likely feel but also lean into the fact that it’s uncertain how your grief will present itself. We often tell ourselves the narrative we should be feeling or behaving a certain way when grieving. Everyone is unique in their experience, and each year can feel different from the last.

Lean Into the Grief Wave

At times, the wave of grief can be a slow build, we feel it bubble up and push it down over and over. We say things like “I don’t have time to feel this” or “I’ve got to be strong and not fall apart.” It’s true, there are times when we can’t lean into our grief for whatever reason. It’s also important to allow ourselves to let the wave be released before it becomes a tsunami. You might notice weeks before Father’s Day, there is a slow build growing. Store ads promoting “Ideal Gifts for Dads,” group texts with the family planning a cookout or Facebook memories popping up. Allow yourself the time and space to be still and lean into your grief, otherwise, your grief will decide for you when it will overflow.

Connect With Your Father

When your father dies, your relationship with him changes but does not have to end. This was a concept that took me a while to understand – it’s not instant. Spend time this Father’s Day connecting with who he was and who he will be to you now. What is his legacy to you? How would you define him? Was there something he had a passion for that you would like to carry on? Spending time reflecting on how his life and death impacted you is an important part of the process. These are the questions that can help you discover what Father’s Day might look like for you now. It won’t be in the form of a new necktie or a sappy Hallmark card; your gift now is what you can offer to the world around you because of the experience you’ve had with losing the person that helped give you life.

It doesn’t matter if this is your first Father’s Day without him or your 20th, it will forever be different. Even though grief has the power to make us feel like no one in the world understands, please know that this Father’s Day, you’re not alone.

Sincerely,

Another Grieving Child

School is out for summer.

Help us feed families who are facing food insecurity.

Crisis Control Ministry helps neighbors facing crises with basic needs such as utilities, rent, mortgage, medications and food. In 2022, Crisis Control Ministry provided food assistance to more than 12,000 people at a value of nearly $1,000,000.

Crisis Control

Summer can be a more challenging time for families facing food insecurity. There are many ways you can help. You can host a food drive. Your family can make snack bags. You can make a financial donation.

For information about how you can help, visit www.crisiscontrol.org

People of Prominence

by MICHAEL JOHNSON

What was the genesis of your appreciation for film?

To listen to the artistic and creative voices of our time is to hear those who have relevant visions for a community. The people who have created things on a canvas or opened their doors for us to view art of all kinds are the cultural heroes. The supersonic pace we maintain will often twirl us so fast that we forget to decelerate and absorb a great piece of music or a film. I arrived at a/perture cinema in downtown Winston-Salem (311 W. 4th Street) to talk to Lawren Desai who runs the cinema right in the solar plexus of our fair city. Her welcoming doors are flung open to welcome those who are ready to be swept away into a story and sink into a respite from the flurry of the everyday.

Where are you from?

Right here in Winston-Salem! I went to RJR High School. To be honest, I could not wait to get out of here. I went to college at the University of Pennsylvania. I finished my undergraduate degree and began to calculate what was next – if it didn’t involve returning to my hometown. I wanted to travel and venture out. Ultimately, I moved to Los Angeles, thinking I could get my start in the film industry, and even to New York. I was in New York during 9/11. I couldn’t seem to find a job there that satisfied me, and it was just a tough place to thrive. Lo and behold, I moved back to Winston-Salem to pursue my MBA degree at Wake Forest University!

I always had an interest in films. When I moved to LA, I signed on for classes and workshops pertaining to directing. I was on the verge of going to film school at USC (University of Southern California). I have always maintained a love of great art-house films. My favorite film, Amelie, is a Frenchlanguage film that I first saw at Angelika Film Center in New York. I ventured out and saw it just after 9/11. It was just such a special experience and has stuck with me all these years.

Detail what made you think an independent cinema was needed in Winston-Salem.

Back when I first had the idea around 20072008, Films on Fourth was a popular event. It brought people out to watch movies at the Stevens Center here on 4th Street. I gave birth to my son in 2007 and, while enjoying the role of “Mom,” I was going a little stir crazy. I honestly felt that a cinema right in the heart of downtown could work. I wanted to bring it forth for the public atlarge, but frankly, I wanted selfishly to see a cinema of this kind come to life here. I wanted it to be a place where independent films, mainstream films and thoughtprovoking documentaries were featured. What do you want the public to know about a/perture?

That we want you to come and disengage for a couple of hours. We understand that people are busy, but I truly believe that after people experience a/perture for the first time, they will return. It can be said that going to the movies at a cinema like ours

is a democratic experience indulging in art. I mean to say that everyone is there to experience the movie, and no one knows the backstory of the fellow patrons. It’s a diverse experience where people from all walks of life are just there to be swept into a story. The city has all these brand new residential buildings, and I want all the residents of our great city to know that we are a theater right here in the heart of downtown.

As an entrepreneur, what scares you and what excites you?

What scares me? This business certainly has its abundant uncertainties compared to what we started in 2010. The pandemic showed us how fragile things can be. We contend with the fact that people have lots of choices for their entertainment. Streaming services are great but also present challenges for us.

What excites me is that I get to screen great movies! I get excited by the word of mouth that gets generated about a great film and that a/perture is the perfect place to escape to and watch it.

Who would you nominate for the next People of Prominence interview?

Toni Tronu from Visual Index on Trade Street. She reminds me of myself. She doesn’t want to wait for something to take shape; she wants to create it. She has been instrumental as a leader in the arts here in Winston-Salem.

“For me, the cinema is not a slice of life, but a piece of cake.” - Alfred Hitchcock

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Family owned with a trusted reputation, Piedmont Sheet Metal primarily serves Winston-Salem, Forsyth County and surrounding areas with an experienced team now totaling 47 professionals. The team installs and services both residential and commercial HVAC equipment, and their sheet metal experts make all the ductwork for company projects, as well as for other local companies.

Piedmont Sheet Metal Trusted Expertise For Your Home & Business

by MARTIE EMORY

photos by SAIL OFF PHOTOGRAPHY

Tara Thompson shares a bit of the company philosophy.

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Part of being family owned means treating staff and customers like family as well, and Office Manager

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Piedmont Sheet Metal has been a certified Lennox Dealer since the company’s early beginnings; plus, they install and service many other leading brands, as well, such as Rheem, Trane, Mitsubishi and LG. That’s part of providing customers with the highest-quality equipment they need and the very best year-round service.

Contact them today to schedule a visit and consultation at your home or business in the Winston-Salem area. Piedmont Sheet Metal is located at 801 N. Broad Street. WinstonSalem, 336.724.7439 and online at Piedmontsm.com.

CrystalLAKE

OnJune 12, 1925, an article in the Winston-Salem Journal announced that “Beautiful Crystal Lake Opens Today.” It was called “a swimming resort” and was located at the home of Harry T. Davis on Reynolda Road, four miles from Winston-Salem.” The pool was described as being “two hundred feet long and sixtyfive feet wide and having a concrete bottom and sides. It starts knee deep and runs to seven feet in depth. On each side is a sliding board both for adults and children, as well as the usual springboards. The water is as clear as a crystal, hence its name, Crystal Lake. The water runs in one end from six springs and empties at the other end of the pool….” Crystal lake was modern in that it had pumps and a filtration system which were cutting edge technology for the time.

There were many private lakes/swimming pools during this time in Winston Salem. Most of the locations and details of them have been lost to time. However, Crystal lake is probably the most memorable because it lasted into the 1970s run by the family who started it.

At first, Crystal Lake emphasized health…consistently refreshed spring water and a rule that all entering the pool must present a current health certificate ensuring they were disease free! (I really do wonder how this worked!) By the second season, though, Crystal Lake was competing to build bigger slides than their competition and offering a breathtaking diving tower with springboards at three, eight, 16 and 24 feet and a 50-foot diving platform. Talk about the “good old days” when safety was an afterthought.

The public flocked to the new swimming resort! A delightful recreation area that would be the site of summer entertainment for nearly 50 years and two generations of Winston-Salem residents.

There’s no question that the pool’s features were absolutely dangerous by today’s standards but also very enticing and surely a lot of fun! Back then, insurance was not the same as it is today. Liability wasn’t as much of a concern, and many might say things were a lot more fun. In the case of Crystal Lake, this meant having a diving board rising 50 feet into the air. Impossibly high by today’s standards! And, by the accounts of those who were there, only the bravest of all would attempt a dive from that height. It should be noted that the 50-foot platform only lasted two years until 1927 with rumors swirling of a death having occurred but no actual proof. There was also a big waterwheel that rotated in the middle of the pool. But, who cared back then? There were few rules to follow and much enjoyment to be had!

A History of Swimming in Winston Salem

by KAREN COOPER

You could rent bathing suits at Crystal Lake! Wire baskets could also be rented to hold clothing and personal items. A large safety pin engraved with a number was given to the swimmer that corresponded to the number on the basket. You wore the pin on your bathing suit and had to show the pin to retrieve your basket. There were changing rooms available as well as a snack bar and a nearby dance floor. It seems there was something for everyone.

If you were tired of swimming, a boating lake was located next to the swimming pool, and canoes could be rented to paddle on the lake and around an island with a gazebo. There was also a bridge to the gazebo.

There was a road that circled the pool, and there were picnic tables spread throughout the pool and lake areas. Families would bring their lunch and make a full day of it!

It was there until the 1970s, when the Davis family decided they had had their fill of running Crystal Lake. Many potential buyers were scared off when they found out how hard it was to maintain a large, concrete-lined reservoir.

According to Davis family history, Crystal Lake was closed in 1975. The Corners Apartments, on Reynolda Road, were built in the Crystal Lake location. The boating lake, island, gazebo and bridge remain from the recreation area. Some other remnants can be seen from Crystal Lake, such as some of the stone walls along the paths. Memories of good times and special summers in Winston-Salem.

FIND YOUR FUN. FIND YOUR Y.

SUMMER DAY CAMP

One week or the whole summer. Indoors and out. Archery to arts, cooking classes to character development, STEM games to swimming. At the YMCA, your child will have an exciting, engaging experience — all in a safe, inclusive environment.

Traditional Summer Camp: K-5 and Teen

• Specialty Camps like Art and Legos

Overnight camp at YMCA Camp Hanes

MEET THE TEAM Behind Making Dollars Making Sense ALYSSA WELLS: MASTER

OF DETAILS

The first smiling face you’ll probably get acquainted with at Marzano Capital Group in Clemmons is Administrative Manager – and coordinator of countless details – Alyssa Wells.

While she’s busy with a daily to-do list that encompasses a wide range of duties, Alyssa is always a constant bright force around the office and couldn’t be more thankful for the family-like atmosphere that makes Marzano Capital so respected in the community.

Friendly and personable, Alyssa stresses how important it is to make clients feel comfortable from the first moment they join the group and throughout every step of the process.

“We, as a team, feel like family, and they feel that way, too!” says Alyssa. “A client may come in stressed, but then they feel so much more at ease after meeting with one of our advisors.”

A member of the Marzano Capital team for the past six-and-a-half years, Alyssa loves the balance of her administrative role – which includes payroll, accounting, insurance, commissions, greeting clients at the front desk and acting as a liaison for all the company’s marketing efforts.

“Every day is certainly different,” she explains. “But interacting with clients is what I love!”

Alyssa arrived at the company with no official financial background, but with plenty of customer service experience she had garnered working with her dad in sales. That compassion to go the extra mile for clients is what she also feels sets the Marzano group apart.

“It’s always a team effort around here,” she explains.

Meet the Team

by MARTIE EMORY

“Clients are going to eventually meet and work with our entire team, because there is always someone here to help. When clients call, it’s very likely that whoever answers the phone already knows a good bit about them and their situation.”

“The beauty of a smaller firm is that we go above and beyond for every client, just as a family would. We aren’t only focused on the financial aspect of our client relationships,” says Alyssa. “Many clients comment that we don’t make them feel like a ‘small fish’ and we don’t talk over

them in complicated terms. They really appreciate that. We want to help anyone and everyone!”

As a working mom, Alyssa is grateful for that “family first” mantra. Alyssa makes her home in Lewisville, with her husband, Jonathan, and almost three-year-old son, Jackson.

Her career is a healthy balance of administration and customer care, including impeccable communication, organization and promotion, making every Marzano Capital Group client feel right at home.

PHOTO BY CARRIE ALLEN

Alyssa with her husband, Jonathan, and son, Jackson

Celebrating International Holidays Without Offense

by TABI FALCONE

Considered a buzz word to some, and deeply personal to others, cultural appropriation is a very important concept to understand and internalize. But, what is cultural appropriation? Simply defined, it is taking something with high cultural importance of another’s culture and using it for your personal gain or enjoyment. A prevalent example of this is using cultural garb, such as tribal headdresses as costuming, if you aren’t a part of that culture.

With such a melting pot of cultures, and a love for celebration, it can sometimes be easy to skirt that line between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. Appreciating a culture is honoring it but not trying to own it. An example of cultural appreciation would be to purchase cultural artwork that was made by somebody in that particular culture, such as a beaded art piece made by an indigenous artist.

How does all of this relate to celebrating holidays? With so many holidays in our society from many different cultures, it’s easy to want to celebrate them all – especially to help with exposing ourselves and our children to cultures outside of our own. The key is to do so respectfully. We’ll review a few of the most commonly appropriated holidays and discuss ways to respectfully celebrate them.

Cinco de Mayo.

While almost all Americans know about the holiday Cinco de Mayo, most don’t know what the holiday actually celebrates. It is a celebration of a Mexican victory against the French army in the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862. While this holiday is often used as a reason to go out drinking and wear sombreros – it’s a better opportunity to use it as a way to celebrate Mexican culture. Do some research on a good authentic Mexican dish – or even better, order from an authentic Mexican restaurant. Wearing a sombrero would be considered cultural appropriation, but watching movies that showcase Mexican culture would be appreciation.

Hanukkah.

The first step here is to acknowledge that Hanukkah is not a Jewish Christmas. Other than the timing on the calendar, they are completely different. Hanukkah is a celebration of the miracle of light, with the oil lasting eight days when it should have only lasted one – which is why there are eight days of Hanukkah. Many synagogues, including Temple Emanuel right here in Winston-Salem, extend an invitation to the community to the first night’s lighting of the candle and use it as a way to teach the community about the holiday. Another good way to celebrate is to make latkes (a traditional Hanukkah food which is a potato pancake fried in oil) and watch a movie about the holiday – “A Puppy for Hanukkah” by Daveed Diggs is a personal favorite.

Juneteenth.

The celebration of when the last enslaved person was told about the Emancipation Proclamation, Juneteenth has been celebrated for many, many years but only made a national holiday in 2021. A question many outside of the community have is how to celebrate Juneteenth without being offensive. A surefire way to celebrate that should not be emulated is to enforce stereotypes – such as making fried chicken and watermelon for dinner. A better way to celebrate is to support a black-owned business, donate to an organization that works towards helping the community and educate yourself on injustice and how to work together for a better future.

The main takeaway on how to avoid cultural appropriation is respect and education. If you want to acknowledge a holiday or custom that is outside of your own, educate yourself. Educate yourself on why the holiday is being celebrated, how it is being celebrated and how you can join in without centering the holiday around yourself.

The Importance of Building a Young Reader’s Background Knowledge

by MEGAN TAYLOR

To be an effective reader, it is helpful to have an expansive vocabulary, strong comprehension skills and a good foundation of phonics, phonemic awareness and fluency skills. This technical language can be boiled down to the fact that to be an effective reader, a person should have a good understanding of the English language in order to understand texts. The skills listed above are taught in elementary school and are built upon throughout a person’s life. However, having background knowledge on various topics is another useful and impactful way for a person to become an effective reader, especially for young readers.

Background knowledge, or prior knowledge, is when a person brings in any information they already know about the topic they are reading about. It also includes knowledge gained through experiences, events and memories. Lastly, background knowledge can come from any past books read or listened to, as well as movies, etc. In return, prior knowledge helps a person understand and absorb quicker than new information they are reading. It creates a framework for the reader

that allows them to better comprehend the text. For young readers, those who are building their comprehension skills, background knowledge can have a huge impact on growing these skills. They are allowed to make connections with themselves and the text. These connections could be text to self, text to text, or text to world. Thus, growing their comprehension of the text, because they are understanding what they are reading and taking it to the next step by forming meaning and confidence. The more information a reader has on a topic, the more they understand and feel confident with reading.

One way to increase your background knowledge is by reading a variety of books in different genres, listening to multiple news outlets and learning from others. But, these strategies don’t always work for increasing a child’s background knowledge. Don’t worry; there are many other ways for a young reader to build a strong bank of background knowledge.

First, after choosing a book to read, always ask your child what they already know about the topic. This will help you determine what they need to know. Then, work with them on various activities to learn more. For example, if the book is about the ocean, spend time learning about the ocean ecosystem and the different animals. A trip to the local library or a search online will help them learn more. Also, making crafts resembling the animals and their habitat is a great way to gain information. Lastly, if an aquarium is nearby, a trip would be the perfect opportunity for learning.

Speaking of field trips, this activity works for any topic and allows children to experience the topic in a first-hand, interactive way. Along with field trips, exploring other texts (such as biographies, poems, and fiction and nonfiction books) about the topic, and completing crafts beforehand, looking at pictures, listening to music and making recipes related to the texts (when applicable) are useful for building background knowledge. Lastly, go through your chosen text with your child and highlight any vocabulary words that, as a reader, they will need to know in order to understand the text. Discuss the word’s meaning and synonyms. Also, pictures work well to comprehend vocabulary. The key thing to remember when teaching vocabulary is, once your reader knows the word’s meaning, help them learn to apply the word correctly in the text and outside of the text. Start including the words in your conversations and keep a list of new vocabulary words.

Increasing a reader’s background knowledge doesn’t always have to be before reading a text. On a daily basis, children can learn categories of words to develop concepts, use comparisons of items and analogies. For example, they can categorize fruits, as well as finding their similarities and differences. In addition, children can read books on multiple topics, especially ones that are of interest to them and engage in multimedia activities. Parents and loved ones can encourage young readers to build their background knowledge by taking part in the activities with them and carry on conversations about what they are learning and reading.

Reading can be a difficult task if you don’t understand what you are reading about. Having a strong background knowledge is just one of the ways that reading can become easier and help pave the way to becoming an effective reader.

Triad Area Events in June

June offers a variety of interesting and exciting events for families to experience in and around the Triad. Here are some of the top offerings:

Southern Idiom: Tammy Willard SECCA, Winston-Salem

May 5-July 23, various hours

Free

SECCA’s “Southern Idiom” exhibition continues with “Sparks from Shadows,” a collection of new works by Tammy Willard. Willard uses her art as a “tool to share my humanity for the purpose of making connections absent of words.”

Frozen

Steven Tanger Center, Greensboro

May 17-June 4, various times

Tickets start at $29

“Frozen,” the Tony-nominated Best Musical, is “simply magical,” according to critics. The musical features the original songs from the Oscar-winning film, plus new numbers by the film’s songwriters. It’s an unforgettable theatrical experience with sensational special effects and stunning sets.

First Friday

GreenHill Center for NC Art, Greensboro

June 2, 6-9 p.m.

Free

Liam Purcell & Can Mill Road in the Crown

Carolina Theatre, Greensboro

June 16, 8 p.m.

Tickets $18

Growing up just down the road from Doc Watson, Liam Purcell leads Cane Mill Road as they rock the traditional bluegrass standards. Their powerful arrangements and dynamic stage presence have landed them main stage slots at major festivals across the country.

Dude Perfect, Panda-Monium Summer Tour

Greensboro Coliseum

June 24, 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $23

Truliant

Eric J. Willie and members of the UNC-Greensboro Percussion Ensemble will perform. Dan Hall, an animator and artist in residence, will have a pop-up exhibition and he will be working in his studio.

Mountain Heart

Yadkin Cultural Arts Center, Yadkinville

June 3, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $25

Mountain Heart has been fearlessly revolutionizing the way acoustic music can be played. Mountain Heart has been nominated for Grammy’s, ACM and CMA awards and won multiple IBMAs. They have appeared at the Grand Ole Opry more than 130 times.

The Prom

Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance

June 9-17, various times

Tickets $19 and $21

Four eccentric Broadway stars need a new stage. They hear that trouble is brewing around a small-town prom because one girl wants to bring her girlfriend. The four stars decide to put a spotlight on the issue…and themselves.

In the 2023 version of their tour, the Dudes bring their antics to the stage and compete in action-packed, trickshot themed battles. The show features some of the most popular segments from their “Overtime” series. The Dudes have a following of more than 100 million.

Tori Amos – Ocean to Ocean Tour

Bojangles Entertainment Complex, Charlotte

June 26, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $39

Tori Amos, a native of D.C., changed the landscape of music with her debut album “Little Earthquakes” in 1992. Since then, the singer/songwriter and pianist has mesmerized audiences with her raw lyrics, haunting soprano and memorable melodies.

Banda MS de Sergio Lizarraga

Spectrum Center, Charlotte

June 30, 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $49

Banda MS de Sergio Lizarraga is one of the most internationally successful bands from Mexico. The band has been releasing hits since 2008. Their style represents the best of authentic regional Mexican music. They’ve done multiple YouTube videos that have had more than 500 million views.

Could Make You Rich!

by KAREN COOPER

Youmight be surprised to learn that some of the toys from your past are quite valuable today. Vintage toy collectors and nostalgia seekers alike are willing to pay quite a lot for toys that may have cost only a few dollars back in the day. Get ready to check your attic and sort through your garage! Here’s a list of 10 surprisingly valuable vintage toys:

STAR WARS ACTION FIGURES

Star Wars fans love collectible figurines just about as much as they love the movie that started it all back in 1977. As with all action figures, the value increases significantly if the toy is still in its unopened original packaging. In 2015, a Japanese collector decided to auction off his Star Wars collection, and his 1978 Luke Skywalker figurine fetched a very respectable $25,000. His whole collection sold for a total of $500,000.

BARBIE

Since her debut back in 1959, she has been beloved in hearts, homes and toy collections worldwide. But, it is the original Barbie in a black and white zebra printed one-piece bathing suit that is worth thousands to the right collector. A first edition 1959 Barbie that is in excellent condition can sell for as much as $23,000. Pretty awesome considering she probably sold for about three bucks.

FURBY

Furbys are furry, big-eyed, cute, but creepy talking toys that were all the rage in the late 1990s. After the 1998 Furby frenzy when everyone wanted one of the little robotic creatures ended, Furbys retained their value. The original price was approximately $35, and now they are selling to collectors on eBay and other sites for more than $400.

LITE BRITE

Introduced by Hasbro in 1967, this first-of-its-kind light-up picture toy kept kids entertained for hours. With a simple lightbox, small colored plastic pegs and design sheets to use as guides, Lite Brites originally sold for $6.95. Today, collectors light up for an original boxed Lite Brite to the tune of $250 or more.

CABBAGE PATCH KIDS DOLLS

Mothers will remember Christmas of 1983. The year they fought for a Cabbage Patch Doll. These unique dolls, each one with its own name and birth certificate…everyone had to have one, but there weren’t enough dolls to go around. Collectors of the beloved dolls are now looking to adopt them on eBay and other sites. The riots have died down, but the price of some of the original dolls has increased to thousands of dollars.

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES

In the late 80s and 90s, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle craze was in full swing. The comic books spawned a hit TV show, and along with it came an abundance of merchandise. The creators of the toys went through so many versions of the same characters that many are extremely rare and worth a lot of money. For example, an “Undercover Leonardo” in the original packaging is worth around $5,000.

NINTENDO GAME BOY

Some say the Game Boy is the granddaddy of handheld video games. These portable games were released back in 1989 and offered hours of personal entertainment. Vintage Game Boys that are in mint shape collect top dollar on sites like eBay. Some have sold for up to $1,500. Who’s ready for a game of Tetris?

TICKLE ME ELMO EXTREME

If you are old enough, you remember the hysteria that occurred when Tickle Me Elmo first hit the market. If you were lucky enough to get one of the first ones, you may have something valuable on your hands. These dolls, which cost only around $10 then, are now going for up to $350 online. You may start to laugh like Elmo when you see what a profit you can make on this vintage doll.

TEDDY RUXPIN

The bear that would play the pre-recorded messages on cassette tapes hit the market in 1985. This is a bear that helped kids go to sleep and gave parents some peace of mind. However, the bear was short-lived as it lasted only until 1987 before being pulled off the shelves. Mint condition, originally packaged Teddy Ruxpins can go for as much as $1,600 in today’s market.

HOT WHEELS

Hot Wheels cars have been racing across the floors of our homes for many decades. With thousands of individual designs, some production runs were longer than others. Some of these vintage toys are extremely rare. One rare Hot Wheels car is the 1969 Pink VW Beach Bomb. It is so rare, in fact, that only two are known to exist. The prototype is owned by Bruce Pascal, who paid “in the region of the asking price of $72,000.”

We Can’t Wait to Meet You

Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine experts provide what you need, when you need it.

SUB-SPECIALTIES INCLUDE:

Sports medicine (shoulder and knee)

Musculoskeletal oncology

Joint reconstruction (hip/knee/shoulder)

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Hand, wrist and elbow

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Foot and ankle

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Novant Health

Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - Winston-Salem 200 Robinhood Medical Plaza Winston-Salem, NC 27106 336-718-7950

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Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - Clemmons 7210 Village Medical Circle Suite 110 Clemmons, NC 27012 336-893-2400

Novant Health

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WELCOME TO COMPLETE REHAB

At Complete Rehab, our specialty is neuropathy and our mission is simple: regardless of the diagnosis, we strive to deliver complete, compassionate rehab to all patients with the goal of improving function and/or performance by addressing deficits to maximize potential.

If you struggle with neuropathy, your peripheral nervous system has a difficult time transmitting information between your central nervous system and the rest of your body. As a result, you might experience numbness, weakness, pain, or a number of other symptoms from nerve damage or deterioration in your legs, feet, arms, hands. This can result in significant discomfort, reduced function, and a lowered quality of life.

OUR GOAL

At our neuropathy clinic in Clemmons, North Carolina, we will work with you to understand exactly what is causing your specific neuropathic symptoms. Using our experience, we will then establish a Plan of Care to relieve or completely eliminate your symptoms so you can finally get relief! While medication can help in certain situations, this isn’t our first response, and we work hard to identify solutions that can provide results on a long-term basis. In fact, it is rare that we are unable to improve or completely heal a patient struggling with neuropathy.

With over 24 years and 7,000 patients worth of experience, I and my team of neuropathy specialists at Complete Rehab will figure out YOUR specific type of neuropathy and completely eliminate or decrease your symptoms.”

- BRETT DUFFEY

NEUROPATHY SPECIALISTS

Ready to do something about your neuropathy? Try Complete Rehab— THE NEUROPATHY Specialists!

Neuropathy

Neuropathy Symptoms

COMPLETE REHAB

Neuropathy Clinic

Website

Address www.crtherapy.com

6000 Meadowbrook Mall, Ste 22 Clemmons, NC 27012

ALL Types of BOWLS

by CASEY CHEEK, Website: 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.

STRAWBERRY BANANA BREAD (Baking, Vegan, Dairy-Free)

Makes 1 Loaf or 8 Mini Loaves | Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes

INGREDIENTS

3 large ripe bananas, mashed

1/3 cup of olive oil

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp dairy free milk

1 3/4 cup all purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 of chopped strawberries

1/3 cup of pureed strawberries sliced strawberries for the top

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 and line your loaf pan with parchment paper or spray with baking oil.

2. Mix together the mashed bananas, olive oil, brown sugar, vanilla, milk, and pureed strawberries.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.

4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix well.

5. Fold in the chopped strawberries.

6. Pour the batter into the loaf pan or mini loaf pan and add the sliced strawberries on top.

7. Bake large loaf for 50-55 minutes or mini loaves for 30-35 minutes. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

8. Slice and serve!

Still Growing Strong!

by MARTIE EMORY

Since taking over Salem Smiles in Winston-

Salem in early 2022, Dr. David K. Woods has perfected – even further – the level of care and comfort patients experience at the popular orthodontics practice. The Salem Smiles team has their patient philosophy down to a science – the science of happy patients and beautiful smiles!

A fun mix of positive changes have taken place in the past year, including an exciting office remodel that included updating paint colors, wallpaper and cabinets to make a brighter space overall, with a calm, cool ambiance. Dr. Woods had a goal of making the space more personal and intimate, and not as plain as a typical dental office may appear! He’s definitely succeeded and even added new artwork from local artist Nico Amortegui, enhancing the community and family feel that Salem Smiles has always fostered.

“Nico, an NC-based artist, born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, completed an incredible mural based on the inspiration of our office,” says David. “It shows how we have an opportunity to share in a patient’s journey to greatness, no matter what age it starts. We are so humbled and grateful for the opportunity, and we strive to be an uplifting force – not just while we are treating patients – but for years to come! Our goal is to always give more than we get, by providing smiles for a lifetime, and we are there for touch-ups and both big and small life occurrences that come along the way – such as weddings or simply continued personal improvement. This art expresses how it takes a team, a shared vision and hard work to reach our God-given abilities!”

Now looking towards summer, Salem Smiles also has plans for expansions in the clinic that will include new staff, efforts to be even more accommodating for patient consultations, same-day starts and new clinical equipment to facilitate additional procedures.

“Some of those brand new procedures include gingivectomy and mini-surgeries, such as temporary anchorage devices (TADs) that allow for space closure with missing teeth or correction of ‘gummy’ smiles and skeletal expansion,” explains Dr. Woods. “Laser gingivectomy is geared towards soft tissue re-contouring and for uncovering short teeth or clinical crowns.”

The practice will also be adding a 3D printer for clear aligner fabrication – providing faster clear aligner therapy for patients – as part of its continued commitment to offering only state-of-the-art technology to its loyal clients. Offering both conventional braces and clear aligner therapy as options, Salem Smiles not only cares for young children and adolescents, but the practice sees a growing number of adult patients interested in the straightening process, as well.

“ We want the practice to be accessible to patients of all ages as we continue to educate them on the many ways a beautiful smile can help boost your self-confidence, inspire overall proper oral hygiene and the often-overlooked importance of sound occlusion (the way your teeth fit together),” says Dr. Woods. “We feel very blessed to provide orthodontic services in this community and, hopefully, spread positive energy to the daily lives of our patients and our staff!”

You’ll also hear uplifting music – including popular Christian tunes – to provide a boost of positive energy for patients and to energize them throughout the rest of their day!

Patients describe Dr. Woods and the entire staff – from the initial greeting at the front desk to every technician – as attentive, detailed, comforting and reassuring. And, those are some of the best possible qualities to soothe a potentially stressful visit – especially for young patients!

This was only our initial visit, but we felt very welcomed and comfortable. I didn’t catch the name of the person who took my daughter’s X-rays but she was very pleasant, as well. Kim Langley is so sweet, patient and professional. Dr. Woods is very informative, kind and professional. We felt so at ease with everyone. A very uplifting environment. I’m thankful.

~ Missy

Dr. Woods is helping us decide on the best treatment options for a complicated ortho case for my daughter. He has been extremely thorough with his research and explanations for treatment planning. And Karen, the financial manager, sat in on each of our meetings to help us understand the financial aspects involved in treatment. We have been very pleased with the office so far, and look forward to starting treatment.

~ Sandie M.

~ Dalila R.

My consult was amazing! Dr. Woods made me feel comfortable with any choice I made regarding braces. He explained his process to me in a way that I could understand. He did not make me feel rushed when he started my evaluation, and even shared some jokes with me. He is an awesome orthodontist, and I hope others feel the same way I do!

Dr. Woods studied at both the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and the Maryland School of Dentistry, and is a member of The Johns Hopkins Craniofacial Clinic, where he gained experience with patients with craniofacial anomalies, such as cleft palate. He has been practicing as a specialist since 2015 and is board certified in orthodontics as well as pediatric dentistry.

While you may see some updates around the office, the Salem Smiles commitment will always be the same! Salem Smiles is conveniently located at 1063 W. Northwest Boulevard in Winston-Salem (easy to find, at the corner of Northwest Boulevard and Reynolda Road), where you can reach them for an appointment or more information on their services at 336.725.5757, or by visiting salemsmilesortho.com. Practice hours are Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and the administrative side of the office is open to patients on Friday from 8:00 a.m. – noon.

I am very pleased with Salem Smiles! Great staff, clean and very affordable. They inform you of everything step-bystep. Thank you for all you have done to put me at ease financially.

~ Deidre C.

Mural located in the learning center at the William G. White, Jr Family YMCA

“COUNTRY”

Thereare a few things in life that give you that sinking feeling in your stomach and a sense of dread – the check engine light coming on is one of them. Now, multiply those feelings by 1,000 when it happens an hour and a half from home and in an area where there isn’t a heck of a whole lot. This was exactly my predicament a couple weeks ago. I finally had a full week at home and was invited to join some friends in North Myrtle Beach for a few days. The drive was uneventful at first, and was actually quite beautiful. The weather was seasonable, and the roads were fairly quiet as I drove with the moonroof open and tunes playing on the radio. As I approached the North Carolina/ South Carolina line, I felt my vehicle give a slight jerk and then saw the dreaded check engine light come on.

Immediately, my mind began to race. What could it be? Was it serious, as in, check-the-engine-now-dummy-or-else? Or, was it more of a suggestion? As though I could make it to my destination and then check it. (Don’t we always hope it’s the latter?) I slowed the vehicle down and glanced at the dash every five seconds hoping the warning signal would just miraculously disappear. But, it didn’t. Then, I happened to look at the temperature gauge. The needle was in the red. I’m no car guru, but I’m smart enough to know that that isn’t good. I took the nearest exit and pulled off to the side of the road. There was literally nothing around me, and no one was passing me. It was obvious no one was going to assist me there. I tried several times to call my friends, one of whom is a mechanic for American Airlines, but no one answered. I knew I needed to find a service station or at the least, a gas station. Using my phone, I searched “gas stations.” There was one about a mile and a half from my current location.

Unfortunately, I would have to get back onto the main highway to get there. I knew that running my car at 60 mph or higher would not be good for it. After about 15 minutes of allowing the engine to cool, I made my move. Slowly, I merged back onto the highway with hazard lights flashing. With luck, traffic was still light and almost nonexistent, so I was able to maintain a fairly slow speed so as not to overwork the engine. Time seemed to crawl as I made my way closer and closer to the gas station. After what seemed like an eternity, I pulled into the lot and parked my overheating car into a parking space. A sense of relief

by DAMIAN DESMOND

washed over me, but I still wasn’t out of the woods yet. I was an hour and a half from home and two hours from North Myrtle – not exactly a great situation to find oneself in with a malfunctioning car.

Exiting the car, I popped the hood and began removing the panel that covered the radiator cap. Leaving the hood open to once again allow the engine to cool off, I entered the gas station to look for coolant. Walking around, I saw everything but what I needed. Perhaps they keep it locked up somewhere because it’s a high commodity, I thought to myself. I walked over to the register area with its shelves of colorfully wrapped candies, gums and other snacks glaring at me. “Do you sell coolant?” I asked.

The answer wasn’t what I was hoping for – “No.” A variation of the word “crap” may or may not have come out of my mouth. Now what? I was getting stuck further and further up the creek without a paddle – the paddle being a bottle of coolant in this case. As I was turning to head back outside, a young man in his mid to late 20s who I’ll refer to as, “Country” stopped me. This person, whom I’d never seen in my life, told me he keeps a jug of water in the bed of his pickup truck and that I was welcome to it. Slightly surprised that a complete stranger was offering to help me, I thanked him and went back outside to wait for him to retrieve the jug. As though I was no bother to him at all, Country proceeded to fill my radiator with the jug of water (I learned a valuable lesson that day about checking my radiator levels on a regular basis). Not only did Country fill my radiator, but he then proceeded to walk over to the spigot on the side of the building, refill the jug with water, and then brought it back to me telling me to keep it just in case I needed it further along in my journey. I thanked Country profusely for his help and told him how much I appreciated him. After exchanging a few more pleasantries and “good lucks,” Country made his way back to his blue pickup truck, started the engine and drove off. Replacing the panel and shutting the hood of my car, I climbed back inside. Unsure of the results, I pushed the ignition button to watch the temperature gauge climb halfway and then stop. The water had done the trick, and my car was purring again with the check engine light no longer glowing.

As I turned back onto the highway to continue my journey south, I thought about how my faith in fellow man has been less than suboptimal over the past few years. I thought about the fact that Country could have easily ignored me and my plight, and just continued on with his day unbothered and unfazed by my problems. But, he didn’t. And so, in that remote area near the North Carolina/South Carolina line, my faith in humanity was restored, even if just a little. It was a reminder that there are still good people out there. May we all strive to be a little bit more like that young man, Country.

Child Safety Series

The 411 on TikTok Parental Controls

by TARYN JEREZ

adult reviewing all smartphone and app use will always be the best line of defense for access to inappropriate content or use.

Parental Controls You Can Enable

While there are several third party apps you can use for monitoring internet, app and messaging for minors, TikTok does offer a few safetyrelated parental controls. Here is each explained directly from Common Sense Media’s website:

With the short form video app gaining popularity amongst big kids and preteens, parents have a lot of questions about TikTok and how to keep their children safe on the app.

The purpose of this article is to help educate you on some of the TikTok safety features as well as empower you to decide if the app is right for your child and how to best create a safer use of the app that fits your needs.

The way TikTok recommends user-generated content across their platform to app users is through its algorithm, matching up data from a user’s interactions with content as clues for what the user likes and dislikes. This is partially why parents are most often warned of the addictiveness of the app for children. Not unlike all social media apps, the TikTok algorithm’s job is to provide content that matches the user, keeping them on their platform longer. While limiting screen time may or may not be a focus in your family, it’s important to understand exactly what digital content your child is consuming and how to keep them safe.

TikTok’s Safety Features for Younger Audiences

The Apple app store has TikTok rated for 12+ users with a “parental guidance recommended” caveat. In the United States, the app offers users under the age of 13 a “view only” experience which includes additional safeguards and privacy protections including a partnership with “Common Sense Networks” which helps them ensure content remains age appropriate for that user’s app. Additionally, before a parent or guardian sets any of their own parental controls, TikTok’s age restriction-based usage doesn’t allow its younger users access to direct messaging or LIVE hosted videos. While each of these safety efforts are appreciated, it doesn’t have control over a younger user lying about their birthday upon creating an account, therefore, an

• Family Pairing - Create your own account, and have your kid’s phone and their login. On both phones, tap the three dots next to the user profile. Then, tap Family Pairing and sync your account with your kid’s via the QR code. (Keep in mind that kids can always re-download TikTok and create a new account using a different phone number or email address, so any controls you enable aren’t foolproof.)

• Restricted Mode - This blocks mature content, but even with the filter on, kids using the app on their own might come across age-inappropriate videos. You can lock the setting with a passcode.

• Screen Time Management - This setting limits users’ time in the app per day. If you’re only enabling this on your kid’s phone, choose a passcode to lock the setting.

Setting Boundaries and Educating Your Child

Beyond the use of a single app like TikTok, it’s always important to educate your children about internet safety in a digital age. Being sure to use age-appropriate language so they truly grasp what you’re sharing is key and provides them with simple specific examples of what harmful things to beware of. Topics to consider include cyber bullying, hate speech, inappropriate sexual content, encouragement of self harm, identity theft and hacking, internet predators and trafficking and more. Creating candid conversations around internet and smartphone use can not only help guide them towards the right behaviors, but empower them to make smart (and not always popular) choices when they feel like something is wrong, as well.

Taking Action When an Emergency Occurs

Despite your best efforts, something can slip through the radar and your child may fall victim to a safety concern. Monitor app access, history and parental controls if you are concerned. Always take your child seriously if they report an uncomfortable online exchange whether between someone they know or don’t know. If there is a problem surfacing from a fellow child or student online, you can contact the school and report behavior immediately. If you believe your child is subject to inappropriate or unlawful internet activity, contact your local law enforcement and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 800.THE.LOST. If specifically reporting online child sexual exploitation, use the electronic Cyber Tip Line or call 800.843.5678.

Helpful Resources to Learn More

• TikTok’s Approach to Safety - tiktok.com/safety

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.

Let’s find home.

Crossnore Communities for Children has open positions for all parenting roles, including volunteer foster parents, Bridge Parents, and Cottage Parents. These professional parents care for children in foster care, and receive training and support to help children and families on their journeys to becoming stronger, healthier and able to meet their goals.

Your passion for helping children combined with Crossnore’s support can change the future for a child in foster care.

Learn

SALEM LAKE

Winston-Salem’s Hidden Diamond

by RENEE SKUDRA

In hard times, with daily talk concerning a possible recession, civil unrest, climate change, escalating crime, homelessness and political discord, one especially needs a sanctuary. Mine is Salem Lake which has been called the “hidden diamond” in the Twin City. Located just minutes away from downtown is a 365-acre shining blue lake with a seven-mile trail closely hugging its waters. The lake is manmade and originally was a reservoir which was dammed in 1911. Salem Lake is the largest body of water wholly in Forsyth County. Its depths range from the banks to 30 feet and admittedly invite one to take a dip in its tranquil waters, although swimming is actually not permitted. The beautiful natural setting presents a picture-perfect postcard and acute evocation of a place which recalls a feeling that one is truly in the wilderness even though it is not far from populated areas.

Whether you are a casual walker or a serious jogger, the Salem Lake Trail which encircles the lake is a great opportunity to get your exercise game on. Generally considered an easy route, it takes a little more than two hours to complete the entire circuit and is both stroller-friendly for babesin-tow and wheelchair/disability friendly. Dogs on a leash are welcome and greeted happily by most patrons. The trail is wide, well-maintained and mostly hard-packed dirt although there are a few paved areas as well. Visitors will encounter generally flat ground and occasional small hills, but the slopes are gentle and not difficult to navigate.

The trail is largely shade-covered with signage and mile markers offering gentle advisories as to one’s location on the terrain. Benches are omnipresent to welcome a tired sojourner for a moment of rest, relaxation and appreciation for the picturesque water views. Traffic at the lake is surprisingly uncongested although one should keep an eye out for suddenly appearing runners, bikers and occasional equestrians whose horses undoubtedly enjoy the great and peaceful walking paths. The trail also has access to other trails which can take you to Quarry Park and the Marketplace Mall as well as to the farther reaches of Kernersville.

One of the greatest joys of spending time at Lake Salem is undoubtedly the chance to observe the abundant wildlife. Over several trips, our family has observed Canadian geese, ducks, great blue herons, turtles, squirrels, butterflies and deer, and heard tell of skunks, black rat snakes and copperheads although we were not overly sad to have missed the latter three inhabitants. Prior to one visit, I went on the Forsyth Audubon Society website and learned that other birds which frequent Salem Lake include cormorants, osprey, grebes, swallows, finches, bluebirds and raptors.

An employee named Dan mentioned that there is great bass fishing at the lake which also counts in its pristine waters catfish, bream, white perch, crappie, bream and carp. On your excursions, you can see a small waterfall and a wide array of beautiful and august trees which include sycamores, oaks, pines, beech, maples and gums. Salem Lake is an absolute visual delight and oasis for anyone seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with the added salubrious benefit of fresh air and outdoor fun.

Salem Lake sports additional amenities for those who venture there. The Salem Lake Marina Center (also called the Boathouse) houses a concession stand, fishing station and bait shop as well as exhibits of live wildlife such as lizards, frogs, turtles, snakes and fish, most of which are native to the area. Children seem particularly entranced by these creatures in an up-close-and personal way. A 300-foot fishing pier allows individuals to fish off it although fees (fortunately quite minimal) and a state fishing license are mandated for anyone over the age of 16. The lake offers both pier and boat fishing. Kayak rentals are another activity one can pursue for the mere cost of $4 an hour (rentals are normally only available from May 1st to September 30th). Salem Lake has many excellent features including a fenced child playground area, picnic tables, grills and shelters, drinking foundations, clean restroom facilities and free parking lots. There are, of course, some rules in place like posted instructions not to feed the ducks or geese since to do so may be detrimental to their health. My favorite sign at the lake, however, provided a bit of hilarity: “positively no alcohol or profanity allowed – use pier at own risk.” I indulged in neither.

Be sure to take a camera on your outing to capture the gorgeous sights. The lake is open seven days a week until 7:30 p.m. and is located at 1001 Salem Lake Road. Don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes either!

Beyond Blood

The Significance of Step Parents in Building Strong Families

by ROBIN SHUPE KELLER

Here are 5 ways in which step parents can positively impact the lives of their step children:

1. Emotional Support

National

Step Parents Week is celebrated the week of June 1st thru June 7th this year. This week honors and recognizes the vitally important role that step parents play in the lives of their step children. Exploring the significance of National Step Parents Week and the ways in which step parents can positively impact the lives of their step children, is important for everyone locally and globally to support!

Significance of National Step Parents Week

National Step Parents Week was established to celebrate and recognize the efforts and contributions of step parents in the lives of their step children. The first week in June will provide an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges that step parents face, as well as their commitment to supporting and nurturing their step children. It is also a time to raise awareness about the importance of building strong, supportive families that include step parents.

Positive Impact of Step Parents

Step parents play an important role in the lives of their step children. They provide emotional support, guidance, and stability during times of transition and change. Step parents can also serve as role models, offering a different perspective and helping their step children navigate the challenges of growing up.

One of the most important roles of a step parent is to provide emotional support to their step children. This can include listening, offering encouragement, and being a shoulder to cry on. Step parents can help their step children build self-esteem and confidence, and can offer reassurance during times of stress and uncertainty.

2. Positive Reinforcement

Step parents can also provide positive reinforcement to their step children, acknowledging their accomplishments and celebrating their successes. This can help boost their step children’s self-esteem and encourage them to continue striving for success.

3. Guidance and Advice

Step parents can offer guidance and advice to their step children, drawing on their own life experiences to help their step children navigate challenges and make good decisions. This can include advice on relationships, career goals, and personal development.

4. Setting Boundaries

Step parents also play an important role in setting boundaries and establishing rules within the family. This can help provide structure and stability, and can help prevent conflicts and misunderstandings. By working with their partner to establish clear expectations and guidelines, step parents can help create a cohesive and supportive family environment.

5. Building Strong Relationships

Finally, step parents can work to build strong, positive relationships with their step children. This can involve spending quality time together, participating in shared interests and hobbies, and creating special traditions and memories as a family. By building strong relationships, step parents can help create a sense of belonging and connection for their step children.

National Step Parents Week, June 1st-7th, provides an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the important role that step parents play in the lives of their step children. By providing emotional support, positive reinforcement, guidance and advice, setting boundaries, and building strong relationships, step parents can positively impact the lives of their step children and help create a strong, supportive family unit. If you are a step parent, take this week to reflect on the positive impact you have had on your step children’s lives, and to celebrate your commitment to their well-being and happiness.

Fork

Fancy

Sheet Pan Lemon Honey Garlic Chicken with Crispy Feta

PREP. TIME: 10 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 20 MINUTES | TOTAL TIME: 30 MINUTES

SERVES: 4

by LAUREN SEPHTON / @BRIGHTMOMENTCO

Welcome back to the Fancy Fork! Your seasonal produce insight and farm-style recipes that are made to satisfy.

Summer has officially arrived with its endless possibilities and abundant gardens! Be on the lookout this month for all your summer veggies including zucchini, summer squash, heirloom tomatoes, bell peppers, fresh corn, cauliflower, cucumbers, bok choy and broccoli. Have you ever tried making your own pickles or pickling beets? Because if not, this is your sign and season to give it a try! Some fruits in season are bananas, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, grapes, strawberries, mangoes and strawberries.

The recipe for this month is an easy (Sheet Pan) Lemon Honey Garlic Chicken with Crispy Feta for a nutrient-dense meal that is rich in earthy notes. And while I think the Crispy Feta is the star of the show here, the second runner up would be the bell peppers! Bell Peppers are rich in antioxidants, including vitamins C, E and beta-carotene. However, it’s worth noting that the nutritional content of bell peppers varies depending on their color. Red Bell Peppers pack the most nutrition because they’ve been ripened on the vine the longest. They contain more potassium, vitamin C and folate than the other variations.

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. Chicken (boneless & skinless), sliced into strips

4 tbsp. Batistini Farms 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2 tbsp. EACH: Sweet Paprika, Honey, Lemon Juice

1 tsp. EACH: Ground Ginger, Cumin, Salt

3 Garlic Cloves, minced

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper, if needed.

2. In a small bowl, mix all the seasonings together. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken, seasoning mix, minced garlic, sliced Fresno peppers, chopped herbs and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Toss until well combined.

4. Add in the sliced red bell peppers and toss once more. Spread out on the prepared sheet pan.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.

6. To make the crispy feta, toss the feta block in flour then fry in the remaining olive oil over high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.

7. Enjoy warm with basmati rice, sliced avocado and more fresh herbs!

2 large Red Bell Peppers, sliced

2 Fresno Peppers, sliced and seeded

1/4 cup Fresh Dill & Parsley, chopped

1 tbsp. Flour

8 oz. block of Feta

Basmati rice, to serve Avocado, to serve

Every child deserves the chance to not only have fun, but to try new things and choose what their best life could be. At Victory Junction, we are committed to making sure that not only are these opportunities available for children with serious illnesses, but also that they are always at no cost to children or their families!

Make your gift today and help every camper build a strong foundation to live their best life! and discover why Camp life is the BeST life!

Scenic

Taking a Journey Through Western North Carolina’s Waterfall Loop

by MEGAN TAYLOR

Western North Carolina, home to our mountains, including the Appalachian Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, is known for its unique destinations and attractions. Geographically diverse,the region is filled with outdoor activities, family friendly attractions, ski resorts, caverns and much more. You and your family could spend the day in cities, such as Boone, Asheville, Banner Elk, Lake Lure, Maggie Valley, Wilkesboro or Cherokee. Each of these cities has treasures, special to themselves. Yet, there is a one-of-a-kind spot, just outside of Bryson City, that only a few people know about.

The Western North Carolina Waterfall Loop is one of the most beautiful drives throughout our state. About 4 ½ hours long and accessible from Bryson City, this drive includes 11 waterfalls that can either be seen from the road or after a short hike. These waterfalls are grouped into four main categories, or areas, for easier travel: the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop on Foot, the Cherokee Waterfalls, the Nantahala Gorge and the Highlands/Cashiers Waterfalls. Within each area are multiple waterfalls for you to enjoy and plan a fun adventure around.

The Deep Creek Waterfall Loop on Foot

Start your journey on foot with this portion of the waterfall loop at the Juney Whank Waterfall. Located inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Juney Whank is a 90-foot cascade that goes under a footbridge. However, beforehand, you will need to make a short ¼-mile hike along a trail. Fun fact: The waterfall is said to be named after the Cherokee phrase “the place where the bear passes.”

Next, still part of the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop are the Tom Branch Falls and the Indian Creek Waterfalls. A short distance away from Juney Whank is the Tom Branch Falls, which is 60 feet tall. Along with resting and relaxing, this area is also known for fishing and tubing. Lastly, the Indian Creek Waterfalls measure in at 25 feet high and are just as beautiful as the other two waterfalls in the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop.

The Cherokee Waterfalls

As for the next set of waterfalls, driving is required as they are located closer to Cherokee, North Carolina. The Mingo Falls and Soco Falls are located on the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Mingo Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Appalachian Mountains, standing at 120 feet tall, and its name means “Big Bear” in Cherokee. When it comes to the Soco Falls, they are unique in the fact that they are a double waterfall with dual cascades. En route to Maggie Valley and just under two miles west of the Blue Ridge Parkway, these waterfalls have a viewing platform, allowing visitors time to soak in the beauty of this destination. In addition, there is a steep trail down to the base of the waterfalls.

The Nantahala Gorge Waterfalls

The Nantahala Gorge is known to be a favorite spot for adventurers at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Upper Nantahala Cascades are at the southern end of the Nantahala Gorge and begins 1,000 feet above the gorge. This cascade is an ideal spot for kayakers and whitewater rafters. Also, in this portion of the waterfall loop are Findley Falls, a small series of waterfalls in Ledbetter Creek in the Nantahala Gorge.

The Highlands/Cashiers Waterfalls

The last category of the Western North Carolina Waterfall Loop is the Highlands/Cashiers waterfalls, which include the Cullasaja Falls, Silver Run Falls, the Whitewater Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the Dry Falls. Let’s start with the Cullasaja Falls, a 250-foot waterfall that is visible from the road and is located off Highway 64 East. Continue going down Highway 64, and you will come to Dry Falls. At this spot, you will find a paved trail with easy access. There is also a cool mist for travelers to enjoy. Next comes Bridal Veil Falls and the Silver Run Falls. At Bridal Veil Falls, a fun pull-off area for sightseeing is just beyond the falls with a rainbow featured in the afternoon. As for Silver Run Falls, it is a 25-foot waterfall cascade that falls into a pool which acts as a swimming hole. Lastly comes the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, the Whitewater Falls. Take the paved walkway to the upper overlook to get the best view of the 411-foot waterfall.

The Western North Carolina Waterfall Loop is a must and should be on every North Carolinian’s state bucket list. This loop offers magnificent, one-of-a-kind sites with beauty that visitors will never forget.

Out & About in Winston-Salem

United Way of Forsyth County Sneaker Ball

Celebrating 100th Anniversary of Helping the Community

by CAROLYN S PETERSON / photos by BOBBY ROEBUCK

Aspart of the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the United Way of Forsyth County, the organization hosted the inaugural Sneaker Ball at the Anderson Conference Center on the campus of Winston-Salem State University on May 6th at 7pm.

The Sneaker Ball was a time getting dressed up in formal attire with a little twist –guests’ shoes had to be sneakers! Live entertainment was provided by M’Soul, and guests enjoyed dinner, drinks, a photo booth, a silent and live auction, and much more. A good time was had by all in attendance, and funds raised will be used in Forsyth County.

One of the key focus areas of United Way of Forsyth County is to ensure childhood and student success. The need in this area of support outweighs the funding received through funding done with workplace campaigns and grants. Therefore, funds raised through the Sneaker Ball will support programs of educational success, specifically at the Pre-K level.

The Sneaker Ball is intended to become an annual fundraiser for the United Way of Forsyth County and help supplement the funds needed to carry out the organization’s mission.

“Funds generated by the Sneaker Ball will significantly help us fill in the gap in providing quality educational programs to children within some of our most vulnerable neighborhoods. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, much of the cost of hosting the Sneaker Ball will be covered. Funds generated from tickets and the auctions will go directly toward supporting pre-K educational programming,” said United Way of Forsyth County President and CEO Antonia Monk Richburg, Ph.D.

The Sneaker Ball raised more than $100,000 through guests, auctions and sponsors. Local companies stepped up to help fund the gala including Hanesbrand and Reynolds American at the platinum level, Wake Forest University at the gold level and more.

For more information on United Way of Forsyth County, visit forsythunitedway.org.

For the LOVE of Smoked Chicken Wings

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour

Yields: By Count (Each)

The first time I smoked wings, I never went back to any other method. Throw out your oven, and enjoy this easy recipe. Coat your wings in olive oil and season them with whatever rub you like. Next, use a generous amount of baking powder. Using baking powder gets the wings to crisp up more during the cook. Let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes to let the seasoning and baking powder adhere. Set your smoker to 350-375 degrees. Place the wings on the smoker; if you need more rub, you can sprinkle that on once they are on the grill to make sure they are all evenly coated. Smoke for one hour or an internal of 185-195 degrees. Flip one time during the cook. Pull them from the smoker and eat plain or sauce them in whatever you like. My go-to sauce is Cackalacky Bold Gold, and I garnish with green onion.

BY COUNT (EACH)

2TB of your favorite BBQ rub

1TB of baking powder

Cackalacky Bold Gold Sauce

Green Onion (Garnish)

by BRIAN JARED Instagram handle @Winstonsalem_nc_bbq

This is an easy recipe that can feed a large or small amount of people. Perfect for a weeknight meal or appetizer to take to a party.

The View from My Section – A Father’s Perspective

The Centenarians’ Wisdom

by A. KEITH TILLEY

“Age is just a number” and “You’re only as old as you feel.” Well, I don’t know about that, but there is some advice that stayed with me when it comes to comments about age. A long time ago, I read an excerpt in a magazine from a book written by twin sisters who also happened to be 100 years old. (I don’t recall the title, sorry.) Their wisdom was amazing, but one piece of information stood out to me. The message advised that no matter how old (in the literal sense) you get, you never think you’re as old as you really are. This is an interesting observation they share that you may not pay attention to unless you stop to think about it.

Now, this insight is coming from twin centenarians, I have to believe they know what they’re talking about. If I live to be 100, I’d like to think I’ve learned some important things along the way. The older I get, the more truthful their observation becomes; as such, I respect their opinions.

The idea that your chronological age says you’re one thing, and your mind naturally envisions you as another is something only an older person can appreciate. I don’t remember precisely, but I’m betting that I probably fell for this when I was in my 30s and 40s as well. After all, I liked the same music artists as 20-somethings, understood the latest styles, was openminded, educated, technology literate (within reason) and stayed abreast of current events and trends. Because of this, my mental image of myself appeared younger, some days more than others – I wasn’t. For example, I might see myself as Tom Cruise hanging from a plane in true Mission Impossible fashion; when in reality, I’m more like Rodney Dangerfield as Thornton Melon on the diving board in “Back to School” (1986), minus the millions of dollars. You think you’re young, but everyone else sees you as you are.

Why do we do this to ourselves? What makes us naturally think this way? I’ve come upon a few different perspectives on the answer. One reason, scientists believe, is due to our internal self-image, the mental picture we have of our personality, capabilities and physical appearance; all impacted by our life experiences, achievements and social connections. It’s thought that our self-image may be slow to change as we age, leading us to think of ourselves as similar to the person we were in our younger years. Athletes often experience this phenomenon.

Another thought lies within our memories and experiences from youth, and how those appear more vivid and influential than our most recent versions. Childhood memories hold a special place in our hearts and help shape our perception of ourselves and our place in the world. Our current experiences, on the other hand, may not have the same emotional impact and consequently are less memorable, which leads us to feel out-of-sync with our current age.

A line from the Netflix series “Beef” says, “I read somewhere that time speeds up as you get older. Because when you’re a year old, that year is 100% of your perception of time. But, as you get older, that year is a smaller fraction of the time you’ve experienced.” The effect on perception, of that later moment in time being a smaller piece, is that it passes more quickly. Could this be why we don’t notice, and therefore, we don’t think we’re aging as much as we are?

This last theory has added leverage, in that, we see people do this all the time. It involves social comparisons and the role they play in our perception of age. In other words, the tendency to compare ourselves to others in our age group. Who hasn’t done this from time to time? The theory explains that if we perceive ourselves as more active, healthy or successful than our peers, we may feel younger than we actually are. On the other hand, if we compare ourselves to those who are younger or more accomplished, we may feel older and less relevant.

There’s little argument that our culture places a strong emphasis on youth and vitality. This naturally leads one to believe that aging is something to be avoided or feared. Perhaps this cultural messaging contributes to our subconscious desire to see ourselves as younger than our real age. The reality is it’s perfectly natural to want to feel young and vibrant, but one thing age and experience teaches us is the importance of embracing the natural aging process and appreciating the significance of the wisdom and experience that comes with it.

Though I’d like to feel like a 20-something again, I appreciate the many things I’ve learned and am still learning along the way. Although I have accumulated a few more tree rings underneath my bark, those rings have helped me develop a deeper understanding and perspective on things – a skill that’s proven to be quite beneficial in my profession.

Embrace the rings.

To comment and see more, visit theviewfrommysection.com.

“The Dog Walks Us”

by RENEE SKUDRA

Ithappened again today while attempting to walk our Bichon Frise, Jackson, at a farmer’s market when a woman in a blue, oversized UNC-Chapel Hill jacket, heading towards us, bellowed out “Who’s walking the dog? Looks like he’s walking you!” What felt like a small headwind on a Winnie-the-Pooh-type blustery day was blowing, and our boy momentarily stopped, frozen in high relief by a blast of light from an overhead sun. Giving the speaker a critical once-over and then gathering all his huge, white fluffy coat into a mighty concentrated ball he shook himself, brashly, beautifully and disdainfully looking down his nose, throwing the person a dismissive glance. Jackson unapologetically and irrefutably had let the world know our secret characterological issues – HE was the alpha animal in the pack. Throwing my head back, I responded to the Chapel Hill matron “The Dog walks us.” “Well, I can see that!” she blurted out, not content to let go of the animal’s recalcitrant behavior. “He’s running the show! You need to see a professional trainer to get his behavior under control.”

An outing to pick up a couple of chocolate croissants had turned into a veritable inquisition ripe with weighty philosophical implications. Were my son and I bad people simply because we had not mastered the art of walking the dog? Even after watching a ton of “The Dog Whisperer” television shows with Cesar Millan expounding numerous ways to get you and your dog to “live your best lives together,” it seems that all that advice had effectively fallen on deaf ears. More’s the shame if you factor in the situation that Jackson is a licensed service dog (although even on a good day we are not necessarily sure what service he is providing). Adding salt to the wound, hours later, another good samaritan contributes to the problem at Wake Forest University. Sporting a Virginia Tech hat,

she runs by screaming raucously, voice heavy with sarcasm, “looks like that dog is walking you!” “He is!” I yell, the color climbing into my cheeks. Jackson, nonplussed, continues to drag us across the campus, moving with great pomp and ceremony, indisputably in charge of the afternoon constitutional.

When we finally made our getaway, I tell Jackson “you and I are going to have a talk. I’m the boss here!” He gives me the side-eye and what appears to be the verbal equivalent of a “whatever….” I understand that I am not being taken seriously. The Winston-Salem general public is now privy to the fact that our family has “psychological issues” as my friend, the therapist, would say, incontestably manifested in our dog’s unruly and reactive behavior. The fact that my son and I have three advanced degrees between us suddenly seems meaningless in promulgating our efficacy as good and venerable dog parents.

When I get home, I jump on the internet, searching for the name of a good trainer, someone knowledgeable, compassionate and firm in their ideology as to how to transform the dog/human interactions from one big, hot mess into a serene and excellently modulated “I’m in control of my pet” situation. A meeting with a local trainer, however, was not fruitful. Forcefully, she proclaims, her voice censorious and heavy with judgment, “that dog is walking you! C’mon lady, get this situation under control! This is not a healthy scene here!” I respond miserably “he’s a rescue from the shelter! We don’t know anything about his past.” This did not stop her umbrage.

“I don’t care about his past; we are talking about his PRESENT!” she says with some viciousness, her eyes apoplectic, hitting me upside the head with unregulated venom. Tears in my eyes, I walk away, the clearly failed pet parent, embarrassed and emotionally unmoored.

Hoping to lift our spirits, my son and I drive to Salem Lake where the dog will undoubtedly once again walk us. We are solemn, the sting of previous negative commentaries still fresh. A light rain begins. The sun, still high above, illuminates our path, its light reverberating through the drizzled geography. A comment from the poet, Paul Valery, enters my mind:

“Le vent se leve, il faut tenter de vivre” (“The wind is rising! We must try to live.”). Like my dog, I share a French heritage. Jackson, in the meantime, is sitting on a large cobblestone, intently contemplating a nearby squirrel.

“Let’s go!” I say, and this time, unbelievably, without argument, he jumps up and walks in perfect conformation, by my side, in perfect rhythm and harmony, not pulling on the leash, almost as if we are a single being in perfectly nuanced and configured motion; and, for one inexplicable moment, at least, surrendering the posture of the Alpha dog he has grown to be.

by ANGELIA CORNATZER

If you are looking for the hot spot of Clemmons, look no further! Mossy’s has got it all going on. When you step into the beloved restaurant, you will notice over 35 TVs with the hottest games and events on. Next time you are looking for a place to watch the game, have a date night out, or chill out with friends, choose Mossy’s! You won’t regret it.

The first time I ever visited Clemmons, our first stop was Mossy’s. I was hooked from that point on, and I am still a regular. There are not enough words to accurately describe the love that many people, including me, have for Mossy’s Buffalo Chicken Pizza. There is just nothing like it! Try one for yourself and see what you’ve been missing out on! In all honesty, it is not rare that we grab a Buffalo Chicken Pizza at least once a week.

There is so much to try at Mossy’s, from their salads, burgers, wings, desserts, sandwiches, pizzas, and much more. Everyone will find what they love at Mossy’s. Mossy’s offers both dining-in and carry-out!

Mossy’s regulars, Jacob and Carlie Thompson, share some of their favorite parts about their Mossy’s experience, “Our absolute favorite thing about Mossys has to be the Buffalo Chicken Pizza, but besides the food we love all of the friendly faces every time we go. As sports fans, we love being able to watch our favorite teams in such a special environment. The consistency with wait times, amazing service, chicken club, and burger options are fantastic.”

With daily drink and food specials, you will never have a dull meal at Mossy’s. The menu is packed with favorite meals that keep the whole town coming back for more.

~ Sebastian Quimbaya

Mossy’s friendly staff and loyal customers make it special. From kids to retirees, and everyone in between, Mossy’s is a favorite place for many. This sports restaurant with a bar does everything with excellence, and you are sure to be blown away after your next meal there! They commit to taking care of their guests.

From their beautiful patio to their covered and heated outside seating area, you are sure to enjoy the dining experience, snow, rain or shine at Mossy’s. Enjoy your drink, meal, and sports team at the bar, the dining area inside, or head outside onto the patio. No matter what you order or where you sit, your time spent at Mossy’s will be a delicious blast!

Mossy’s is located at 6235 Towncenter Drive in Clemmons. You can reach the store at 336.766.7045 or online at www.MossysClemmons.com! Check out Mossy’s this week and I promise you will find it to be your new favorite spot!

“You can truly order anything on the menu and trust that you will love your meal. It is a convenient location with a great atmosphere to be with people and watch sports. There are amazing healthy and treat-yourself options available.”

~ Jackson Cornatzer

“Their drinks are great! Mossy’s is a place I always have at the top of my list, because it’s a great place to meet with friends or family and have a good time!”

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Where My Very Own Rainbow Baby Waited for Me

by TRIAD MOMS ON MAIN CO-MANAGER SUZY FIELDERS

Rainbow baby. Do you know this term? If you do, then it has likely directly impacted you, and you probably have or are hoping for a rainbow baby yourself.

Until October 2021, I had never really put much thought into that term or truly understood its meaning. While the direct definition of rainbow baby is any healthy baby that is born after a woman loses a baby due to miscarriage, infant loss, stillbirth or neonatal death.

In February 2021, I had a miscarriage. I blogged about it on TMoM which you can read here. It was a harrowing experience, but, only a couple weeks after writing that blog, I found out I was pregnant in October 2021 with my daughter, Sarina. It was almost like I had to share my story to move forward with another pregnancy. If you’ve suffered from a miscarriage, I highly recommend you share your own story – it doesn’t have to be in a public blog but in a personal journal. Writing and putting your thoughts down on paper is very therapeutic.

I also wrote in this blog a little bit about that pregnancy. In June 2022, Sarina graced us with her presence, and we had our very own rainbow baby.

What’s it Like Having a Rainbow Baby?

Every child is precious and, as a mom, you are so grateful for each one. Each child is also very different from pregnancy to becoming adults.

Most moms are overly cautious with that first baby. Honestly, while I was always careful with my first daughter, I never felt overly worried about how she was doing or if she was safe. I just knew she was and would be fine. She’s now a beautiful, healthy 16-year-old, so clearly, I was right on that train of thought. However, with my little rainbow baby that worried voice tends to creep in a lot. Is she safe? Will she be okay? The list goes on. Sadly, the loss of life in a miscarriage followed by the gift of life in a rainbow baby creates this strange and unnatural fear in the brain. Unfortunately, Sarina has had a few medical issues happen so far in her young life – I’ll be blogging on that soon, so stay tuned! She is okay and healthy, but with each medical incident, the fear seemed almost double with a rainbow baby. There is always that inner voice that makes you worry – likely more than you should – that something might happen to this baby, too.

But, this fear also brings about a level of gratitude that is remarkable. The reality of human nature is we often need loss to appreciate life.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

While I had ideas about it, I did some research to understand where the term rainbow baby came from. It is mostly related to the fact that a rainbow appears after a storm. So, after dealing with the dark times of a miscarriage, having a baby brings that rainbow and hope back to your life.

Personally, I agree with that, but to take it a step further, rainbows not only symbolize hope but happiness, as well. Sarina is the epitome of rainbows and happiness. Anyone who has met her has seen – and commented on – how she is

just the happiest little baby. We’ve been asked more than once if we have to do stuff to get her to constantly smile in our photos, as she is in almost all of them. The answer is “no.” She just smiles most of each day. It is the first thing she does when she wakes up in the morning! At almost 10 months old, there is no slowing that smile down!

When Sarina was a much younger baby, I found out that playing the song Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole was like magic to her. It would – and still does – get her quickly to sleep. I didn’t even make the connection to her being a rainbow baby and this song until I went to write this blog! It seems so fitting now that I have thought about it though!

The Future is Filled with Hope

Not only were we gifted a beautiful rainbow baby, but, in October of 2022, we discovered we were pregnant again – with another daughter! She is due on June 7th – my 40th birthday of all days! Life really is interesting, beautiful and has ironic timing.

If you are dealing with or have dealt with a miscarriage or are waiting for your own rainbow baby, remember that even when it might not feel like it, the future is filled with hope. After all, even in the darkest of times and through life’s downpours, eventually, a rainbow will appear.

1 3

1 Roselin Rena

1st Grade / Meadowlark Elementary

Lori Mottesheard, Art Teacher

2 Zora Perkins

9th Grade / Parkland High School

Oren Ralph, Art Teacher

3 Hento Ilanlan

1st Grade / Old Town Elementary

Taya Lambert, Art Teacher

4 Maryrose Hagan

8th Grade / Kernersville Middle School

Kristian Snyder, Art Teacher

“Art is everywhere, except it has to pass through a creative mind.” ~ Louise Nevelson

It’s a Grand Life Grand

Summer Fun

by SUSAN WOODALL

Exceptfor the heat and humidity, I love this time of year. The hectic pace slows down, and there is more time to spend with the grandchildren. School is out, most extracurricular activities are over until school starts again, pools open, and abundant options of places to go and things to do present themselves. During the year, there are limited opportunities to do things that take more than a couple of hours. Having moved to the coast, the beach and boat are a definite plus for our Charlotte grandchildren to look forward to, as well as being with four of their cousins.

Forsyth and surrounding counties have loads of interesting and fun places to go for an afternoon, a day, or days. If you have confident swimmers, a community pool, private pool, or a water park on a hot summer day is a great idea. Pack snacks, or even a picnic lunch, plenty of water, and most definitely, sunscreen.

Those things are also good for a trip to the zoo. Asheboro is an easy drive from Forsyth County. There is so much to see and do there, as well as places to sit and have a picnic. Do some research before you go to find out about times and events that will be happening that day. There are times to meet different animal keepers who will answer questions, hiking trails, giraffe deck, butterfly garden and more. There are several recreational attractions including a carousel, ropes course, and a garden friends playground. A fun and educational way to explore the zoo is with an activity guide known as Zoo Trekker. It is primarily for ages 6-12 but open to all ages. Those completing six or more quests earn a souvenir pin.

Usually, getting away from the heat means a trip to the beautiful NC mountains. The towns of Blowing Rock, Highlands, Waynesville, West Jefferson, and so many more are wonderful places to explore. There are also many ways to entertain the children including gem mines, horseback riding trails, great hikes, places to fish, and, of course, there’s the Biltmore House and gardens.

Have your grandchildren started talking about going to a summer camp? Whether they want a coastal or a mountain camp experience, this is a great time to look into options for the future. We found the camp our daughters went to, and now their daughters go to, quite by accident. And, while one grandson chose a boys’ camp close to his sister’s camp in the mountains, another grandson chose to stay closer to home by going to one on the coast.

Getting away from getting on the road, if there have been discussions about owning a dog, summer is a great time for that. The children can learn the responsibility of having a pet, and the weather is more conducive for training and getting settled into their new family. Some important things to keep in mind – make sure the parents are on board with it – that is a big #1.

The children may be begging for one, but, whether you disagree with the parents for not getting one, it is their decision; owning a pet is a commitment – that cute puppy will get bigger. It will chew things, need food, toys, training, shots and medicines to keep it well, spaying or neutering, and veterinarian visits, among other things.

Whatever your summer plans are, I hope you will be able to spend time with your grandchildren building more memories for not just them, but for you, as well. The best things are the wonderful hugs, happy smiles, and the “I love you” coming from them!

May 7th, 2023

PATRICK DALTON for becoming an APP STATE graduate!

Zack Sephton proposed to Jonah Rice on an outlook in Yellowstone National Park. The snowy mountains and a beautiful pink sunset made for the perfect proposal. Photos captured by Lauren Sephton of @abrightmomentco

How to Host a Successful COMMUNITY Garage Sale

by TARYN JEREZ

SunnySummer days are the perfect time to organize a community garage sale and part with items in your home that are no longer serving you, while making a little spending money for summer activities! There are so many benefits to coming together to host a multi-family garage sale! From added motivation and accountability, to larger customer traffic and sales, a community garage sale can be simple and successful, if you know what to do!

Here are five steps to roll out a successful community garage sale your neighborhood will thank you for!

#1 NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING: Enlist the Help of a Neighbor or Two to Plan Your Sale

It’s exciting to think about the possibilities of getting everyone together for a joint venture, and remember, even the simplest of tasks can sometimes feel a little overwhelming alone! Reach out to a few neighbors to see if they are interested in helping plan the community sale, or create a post on Facebook or Nextdoor with an all-call! Having additional hands (and minds) on deck will be helpful when figuring out all the logistics. You’ll want to decide on a date to host the event, such as a Friday or Saturday, as these days tend to be most successful! Be sure to lock down a time frame as well, keeping in mind that most garage sale shoppers love to start their adventures early in the morning.

#2 GET THE WORD OUT: Create a Marketing Plan and Assign Responsibilities

Spreading the word is your biggest responsibility as the planner! Think about the strong suits of each person helping

plan the sale and assign different roles to each person. You’ll want to create a flyer for neighbors with all the important details on them to pass out to houses: date, time, sale coordinator contact information for questions, and helpful suggestions, such as how much change to have on them and tips for set-up. Divvy up the role of flyer distribution around your neighborhood so everyone is helping get the word out. Who will create signage and who will actually put out the signs the night before the sale? Who is the Internet-savvy neighbor ready to create a Facebook Marketplace ad or Craigslist post to market the event?

#3 EXTRA EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT: Inform Your Neighborhood about Dates and Details

The most important step in hosting a successful community garage sale is communication with your community! The flyers your planning committee created will be passed out, of course, per your marketing plan, but make sure whose ever contact information is on the flyer gets back to any questions that may be asked. If you have an HOA with access to a neighborhood e-mail list or Facebook group, perhaps send a reminder about the sale or create a poll to see who plans to participate! If you and your family tend to walk around the block in the evenings, don’t be shy! Embrace a little “howdy neighbor” Southern hospitality and let them know about the upcoming event!

#4 MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Create Sustainable Ways to Part with NonPurchased Goods

It may seem like your planning checklist is complete, but knowing what to do after the sale ends is just as important. The fact

is, so many families will enjoy clearing out their homes and garages of unwanted items that the thought of bringing unsold goods back into their home feels awful. To avoid an unwarranted amount of useful items being wasted and sent to landfills, have a plan in place for what your community can do with unsold items. Have a few people who will pick up unwanted items to donate to a local thrift store or charity after the sale. You can also offer a drop-off location at someone’s home to make it easier. Be sure to include this information on the flyer you send out to your community.

#5 GAIN FEEDBACK: Survey Your Community About Their Experience

When it’s all said and done, you hope your efforts knocked it out of the park, and your neighbors enjoyed the community garage sale experience! While customers are looking around, ask how they found out about the sale to see which marketing tactics worked. Do they live in the community or did they see the sale on your Facebook post? If you are able to tag a family member in to keep an eye on things, try to walk around your block to talk to participating neighbors about how things are going during the sale. The information will help you determine any changes you’d want to make next time around and even help you make the decision to host again or not. Plus, this is a great opportunity to mingle with neighbors you may not have had the chance to meet just yet!

Remember, as cliche as it might sound, be sure to add “have fun” to the list! The best way to determine if a community garage sale is successful is if you and your neighbors enjoy themselves and feel like your efforts were met with positive feelings. Now get out there, start planning your own sale and go make some money!

Event details are subject to change.

Please check event wesite and social media pages for updates as the dates draw near.

FOURTH THURS NOW-DEC 28

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

5:30-7:30pm | Foothills Brewing, 3800 Kimwell Drive in Winston-Salem

It’s part social, part networking! There will be deals and discounts on beverages, and the event is open to anyone 21-35 or the young at heart. We hope to see you there! https://bit.ly/3DdR03L

SATURDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER

COBBLESTONE FARMERS MARKET

8:30am-12pm | 1007 Marshall Street in W-S

Welcome to your weekly outdoor grocer. Shop local, sustainable farmers and producers onsite with live music.

JUNE 1 & 6

AUG 3

SEPT 7

OCT 5

SUNSET SALUTATIONS: FREE YOGA AT BAILEY PARK

Our free, all-levels community yoga series is back, and we’re ready to unwind and relax together. Each event will be hosted by either Lotus Yoga Academy or 2BYoga – so get ready to breathe in, breathe out and get it “om!”

Bring your water, mat and towel, and join us on the first Thursday of every month from April through October to clear your mind and practice flexibility through the healing power of outdoor yoga.org/ used-book-sale-1

JUNE 3

BIG SIP CRAFT BEVERAGE & MAC AND CHEESE FESTIVAL

Outside on Trade Street in downtown W-S.

An all-inclusive event. For the price of a ticket, guests can sample Mac & Cheese from local restaurants and taste craft beverages from across North Carolina.

Tickets: $25-$45 in advance.

JUNE 3, 10 & 17

SALEM SATURDAYS IN SPRING

10am-4pm | Old Salem

The sun is out, the winter chill is lessening. Grab your family and friends and walk the sunny streets of Salem. Our Springtime themes include garden preparations, new life and the planning and establishment of early Salem. Learn about how the people of Salem built community with one another and how they shared their culture with the people around them.

JUNE 7

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

5pm-until | Roar, 633 North Liberty Street in W-S

Grab a friend, your neighbor, your sister, your mother, a co-worker and join us for a muchneeded Girls’ Night Out! Enjoy four floors to explore with multiple dining options and gaming. Gaming includes boutique bowling, virtual game simulators and interactive mini golf.

JUNE 8

FREE VEIN CONSULTATION

12-4pm | 2827 Lyndhurst Avenue, Suite 206 in W-S

Attention Winston-Salem residents! Novant Health Vein Specialists is holding a FREE vein consultation event. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms – leg pain, swelling, varicose veins, heaviness, itching, burning sensations, restless leg syndrome, leg cramping, muscle spasms, skin discoloration or ulcerations, our expert providers are ready to help you diagnose the level of your vein health. Our Winston-Salem clinic utilizes the latest technology, is in a comfortable setting and conveniently located, making it easy for you to take the first step towards healthier, more comfortable legs. Don’t let vein problems hold you back any longer. Get out and enjoy life again. RSVP today to secure your spot and take advantage of this incredible opportunity. salemveins.com/schedule-screening

JUNE 9-25

SOMETHING ROTTEN

Times vary | 209 North Spruce Street in W-S

Brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but find themselves stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” When a local soothsayer foretells a future where theatrical productions involve singing, dancing, and acting – all at the same time – Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first MUSICAL! This wild and hilarious comedy opened on Broadway in 2015 and was nominated for 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Cost: $14.50-$27/person. ci.ovationtix. com/36350/production/1104902

JUNE 10

If you have an event you’d like to submit, please go to forsythmags.com/calendar-of-events or scan our QR code.

JUNE 16

REYNOLDA READ-ALOUD

10-10:30am | Reynolda House Museum of American Art – Jordan Courtyard

Join us for an outdoor story time perfect for children who are emerging readers. Featuring a different theme each month, we’ll hear stories, sing songs and participate in fingerplays. Leaders will suggest at-home activities for continued engagement. Visit reynolda.org/readaloud to find previous Read-Aloud videos. Free event.

JUNE 19

LIFT EVERY VOICE SUMMER CAMP

9am-4pm | Calvary Moravian Church

Raise a toast to the 25th anniversary of The Big Lebowski and raise some FUN with Greensboro Bound at this Greensboro Bound Literary Festival fundraising kick-off event! Award-winning beverage writer André Darlington will entertain you while mixing up a selection of movie-inspired cocktails and fun movie trivia. It’s sure to be a good time, but you know, that’s just, like, our opinion, man. Cost: $30/person. https://bit.ly/3UhdtnU

JUNE 22 JUNE 27-29

BOOKMARKS PRESENTS CHRIS PAUL

7-8pm | Wait Chapel, 1834 Wake Forest Road in W-S

Bookmarks is thrilled to host Winston-Salem native Chris Paul in celebration of his memoir, SIXTY-ONE: LIFE LESSONS FROM PAPA, ON AND OFF THE COURT. Tickets are $32 (+fees & taxes) and include admission to the event and a presigned copy of Sixty-One. bookmarksnc.org/ChrisPaul_WS

FUTURE EVENTS

JUNE 24

PRCT’S 2ND ANNUAL CLIMB OUT OF DARKNESS EVENT

9-11am | Postpartum Resource Center of the Triad

Join us to raise awareness and support for the mental health needs of new parents from pregnancy through postpartum. Connect with community providers and other parents. Family friendly event with complimentary coffee from Inti House and slushies from Kona Ice!

TOUR DE LLAMA

4126 Divine Llama Lane in East Bend

Samaritan Ministries will host its ninth annual Tour de Llama with all proceeds raised through rider registrations and sponsorships used to help Samaritan Ministries provide food and shelter to hungry and homeless neighbors in the Winston-Salem area. Registration fee per rider is $40, and participants must be at least 18 years old. All cyclists must pre-register and complete the required online waiver forms before the cutoff on June 22nd. Call 448.2664 for more information.

WEST FORSYTH 2023 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CAMP

9am-2pm | West Forsyth High School

The Lady Titans at West Forsyth High School are hosting a 2023 Women’s Basketball Camp for K-8 girls! Lunch will be provided each day. Campers will have the opportunity to strengthen their basketball skills with the support of coaches and student-athletes from the West Forsyth Women’s Basketball Program. Those who register before June 12th will only pay $80. Those who register after June 12th will pay $100. Payment is due on the first day of camp via cash or check made payable to the West Forsyth Athletic Booster Club. For more information, please contact Coach Green cegreen@wsfcs.k12.nc.us. Registration is required.

JULY 22

FLOWER ARRANGING WORKSHOP

10am-12pm, 238 Minglewood Road in Westfield

Join Minglewood Farm and Nature Preserve’s Executive Director, Margie Imus, for a morning at Minglewood Farm & Nature Preserve all about flowers. Guests will be able to visit the cutting garden, learn about growing, cutting and processing your garden flowers and the basic techniques of flower arranging. Cost: $35/person. minglewoodpreserve. org/upcomingevents

JULY 29

TODDLER TREK + OPEN TRAILS

10-11:30am, 238 Minglewood Road in Westfield

Join us for Toddler Treks where we will read a story, smell fresh herbs from the garden, investigate specimens up close from the natural world and explore the great outdoors, while celebrating summer! Free event. minglewoodpreserve.org/ upcomingevents

AUGUST 4-6

GEARS & GUITARS 2023

Gears and Guitars is back in 2023 for its 10th year! One of the country’s most prestigious cycling events combined with live music for a weekend of exciting racing, local riding and a full weekend of FREE live music from big name bands. Visit winstonsalemcycling.com for more information.

SEPTEMBER 16

DIRTY DOZEN OBSTACLE MUD RUN AND FUN RUN 5K + CLEMMONS OKTOBERFEST

7:30am | Jerry Long Family YMCA in Clemmons

Whether navigating the 5K course as an individual or team or the Fun Run course, participants will be challenged as they run through obstacles and test their strength, agility and stamina. Proceeds will benefit people in the community, Y innovative health programs benefiting cancer survivors and other chronic disease programs. Contact dirtydozen5k@ ymcanwnc.org for more information.

HAPPY DAY! Father’s

We are Grateful for our advertisers It’s our privilege to work with our advertising partners, who make this magazine possible. Because of their support, we are able to offer Forsyth Family as a free community resource. As you visit these businesses and organizations, please let them know you saw their ad in this month’s issue.