Wearing Your Faith

BY DENISE HEIDEL

Keith and Emily Davis, owners of Fleet Feet Sports, aren’t afraid to share their faith – but that hasn’t always been the case. After opening their first store in 2006, this Christian couple operated their business with Christian principles but weren’t overt about their beliefs. All that changed when Keith participated in a triathlon.

Emily shared, “Keith was so excited and empowered – much more than he typically was after finishing a race. He called me and told me about the praise and worship music playing at the finish line…. He was excited about the messages of faith found in his swag bag. Keith was ready to start doing the same kind of thing at Fleet Feet, but I was initially hesitant. However, after we joined River Oaks Church in Clemmons, my faith grew stronger, and I began to be bolder, too.”

“Over the years, our business has thrived. Our customers have told us they appreciated our stance and willingness to build Fleet Feet and sister-store, New Balance, on our Christian beliefs. And for three years, WBFJ listeners could listen to a daily devotion from me on the radio. Unfortunately, in 2021, corporate policies stopped me from promoting our faith through advertising. But while those devotions played, we had so much positive feedback.”

Even with some limitations in place, Emily has still found ways to be creatively bold – through an apparel line called “Eternal Apparel.” “I love a great, comfy shirt, and even more so – I love to design them with faith-based messages. My first wearable faith shirt was designed for a group of workout moms, and it said, ‘Jesus and Burpees Make My Day.’ I had extras made and sold them in the store. They were a huge hit.

“Since then,” Emily continued, “we’ve continued to produce shirts with powerful messages. ‘Faith Greater Than Fear,’ ‘Pray Wait Trust,’ ‘Breathe,’ ‘Counting Every Blessing,’ and ‘Running on a Prayer’ have been some popular favorites. In fact, Eternal Apparel is the fastest growing brand in the store.”

According to Emily, the appeal is simple. “People are encouraged by wearing their faith, and in doing so, they encourage others. It’s rare to wear a faith-based shirt out in public and not have someone stop to tell me they like it, ask where I got it, or tell me they appreciate the message. As I look back on the shirts I’ve designed, I can actually see my prayer life in front of me and those who have purchased those messages – it has meant a lot to share those meaningful words with them.

“Despite what the media reports about Christian values and beliefs, people are still holding strong to their faith. Those who are willing to wear their faith can speak a message from across a store, or in passing on a walking trail, or even from waving to their neighbor at the mailbox. It’s that simple. Faith-based apparel is a way to express worship every day of the week and encourage others to do the same! And God will bless bold faith.”

Emily has taken a great deal of time to source quality shirts and materials that are durable, soft, comfortable, and pre-shrunk so that they wear well and hold up to long-term use. “People love the fabric,” she said. “Beyond the powerful messages, these are really comfortable shirts.”

In addition to sharing the message of the Bible, the Eternal Apparel shirts have also helped fund various ministries that Emily and Keith support, including the YMCA e-Learning program and mission work in Kenya.

The Davises have a deep love for their church, the business, and the community. “We want others to understand that there is hope in God. We need to speak our faith. And we found that you can even wear it out loud.”

Fleet Feet Sports is located at 278 Harvey Street in Winston-Salem. Visit the store online at FleetFeetWinston-Salem.com or call 336.722.8477. Be sure to like Fleet Feet Winston-Salem on Facebook and follow them on Instagram. Eternal Apparel makes a great Mothers’ Day gift!

Second Harvest Food Bank

Springtime at Midtown Cafe & Dessertery BY DENISE HEIDEL

In the Triad, nothing speaks of better springtime dining than the patio at Midtown Cafe & Dessertery. A 30+ year tradition in the community means that locals (and many visitors!) know and appreciate the great food, great service, and great atmosphere that can be enjoyed at Midtown. And who can resist dining beside a mermaid fountain, right?

Jeff Cayton, the owner of Midtown Cafe, recently published their new spring menu and shared, “The new spring menu features great new menu items that are perfect for the season, but also promise to be among some of the new favorites for our customers. Plus, our chef has outdone himself in time for Mother’s Day, bringing some delicious options that everyone in the family will enjoy.”

The new menu includes:

Steak & Eggs: Steak and eggs are a classic for good reason, and now they are a part of Midtown’s all-day breakfast menu! Served with fresh chimichurri sauce, it’s sure to be a favorite for anyone in the family who has a hearty appetite.

Peach Delight: Midtown brought back a customer favorite! Thank goodness! We missed the sweet peach delight and the perfect blend of hot and cold!

Veggie Grilled Cheese: This is a grilled cheese of a higher caliber! Provolone with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and onion with tomatoes and avocado served on grilled sourdough is a veggie-lovers dream.

Grilled Flank Steak: Perfectly grilled to preference, this flank steak is served with mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus.

Ultimate Steak Quesadilla: Midtown loves the diversity of flank steak, and for this dish, they’ve served it with caramelized onions and peppers, loaded it up with cheese, and grilled it for the ultimate steak quesadilla. It is served with chimichurri sauce and fries.

Citrus Grilled Mahi: All that’s missing here is a tropical breeze. Grilled Mahi is garnished with citrus sauce and pineapple relish and served with coconut rice and asparagus.

Mahi Tacos: Enjoy the fresh citrus grilled Mahi but on tacos! YUM! Pineapple salsa, shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, and avocado crema.

Honey Bourbon Glazed Salmon: Fresh salmon, grilled to perfection, glazed with Midtown’s house-made honey bourbon glaze, and served with two sides.

Bubbly Flights: A great way to sip it all – guests can choose four samples from Grapefruit Rose, Huckleberry, Blood Orange, Raspberry Lemonade, Classic Mimosa, and Bellini. The bubbly flights are an elegant way to taste a little bit of everything!

In addition to these great new (and returning) entrees, Midtown’s seasonal favorite – Fried Fish Fridays is back! “Guests love our freshly fried fish and the weekly specials we offer,” said Jeff. “We have also brought back our seasonal favorite, Strawberry Shortcake, so customers need to save room for dessert!”

Make plans to dine at Midtown Café & Dessertery for Mother’s Day, or any day for that matter! Take advantage of online ordering, online waitlists, and Midtown Market for great to-go meals, too!

Midtown Cafe & Dessertery is centrally and conveniently located at 151 South Stratford Road in Winston-Salem. Their normal hours of operation are 7 AM – 8 PM every day. Call them at 336.724.9800, or visit them online at MidtownCafeWS.com. Check out their catering and Midtown Market menus. Stay up-to-date on special events and features by liking their Facebook page or following them on Instagram.

NOT JUST DREAMS, BUT POSSIBILITIES FOR AISHAH CASSEUS

Aishah Casseus wanted to be an attorney since she was seven years old. She had role models growing up but no access to potential mentors who were black attorneys or judges who looked like her.

She dreamed of becoming an attorney despite never seeing that possibility firsthand. She was smart, determined, and encouraged by a supportive family whose question was not “if” she goes to college but how many degrees she would gain when she got there!

In her role as Director of Title IX for Wake Forest University since October 2020, Ms. Casseus is realizing her dream in our community.

Born in New York into an immigrant family, Ms. Casseus became interested in social justice and civil rights while at Spencer High

School in Columbus, Georgia, and throughout undergraduate studies at Troy University in Alabama. She balanced academics, work, and motherhood while pursuing her dreams and raising her daughter.

“Motherhood does not mean you lose yourself” is a message that she wants to share with other female leaders. Casseus delayed college until her daughter was in kindergarten and then worked during the day while attending night school.

After graduation she worked at Aflac Insurance and saved money for law school. She completed her law degree at North

Carolina Central University, with a concentration in constitutional law and civil rights. In true immigrantfamily fashion, Casseus worked and lived in several states on her life journey, from secondary school to passing the bar exam on her first try to her current role at Wake Forest University – including NY, GA, AL, VA, NC, DC, PA, VA, NJ, and FL! Prior to directing the Title IX Office at WFU, Ms. Casseus directed the Title IX and Equal Employment Opportunity office at WinstonSalem State University and served as Interim Director for Title IX at Florida State University. With each transition to a new setting, she expands her role into compliance and investigation, and analyzes situations with “new eyes.” She approaches these positions as an opportunity to change culture on campuses and not just as “checking a box” for required Title IX efforts on campuses, commonly thought of as only investigating sexual harassment complaints.

She strives to build a culture that encourages all students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to seek assistance and education from her office. She enjoyed her time at WSSU and admits it was hard to leave, but she enjoys the unique challenge of applying policies and regulations in an academic medical center.

When asked about her hobbies, Casseus immediately describes her part-time teaching duties at Forsyth Technical Community College, followed at a distance by travel and keeping house plants alive. She instructs in the paralegal program and provides students with a role model as a female with a diverse background and successful law career, whether as a paralegal or as an attorney. Role models for Casseus include her parents and her siblings (her dad is her biggest cheerleader) and Jennifer Bloomfield, her supervisor at Florida State. These supporters believe in her and trust in her abilities to lead others. Her current mentor is Dr. Anthony Graham, Provost at WSSU, who probably does not realize he is her mentor, but who also recognizes her leadership skills and includes her in his leadership series.

“I will always have a voice wherever I am,” says Casseus. She urges our community to use their voices to engage in the difficult conversations needed to better understand our country’s vast differences in experiences and cultures. “We all consume our country’s past experiences, and it’s hard not to be immediately defensive when faced with inequalities. It is tough for everyone,” says Casseus. To understand past experiences means acknowledging inequities that exist without making it harder for each other to succeed. “Just don’t make it harder for others.” Aishah Casseus has made her dreams come true, and our community is the better for her messages.

Lewisville Laser & Aesthetics

Mother-Daughter DuosinAction:

SUPPORT LOCAL THIS MOTHER’S DAY

BY AMY HILL

While some might cringe at the mere thought of working alongside family, these local business ladies are proud to work together as mother-daughter pairs on a daily basis. In honor of Mother’s Day, we wanted to highlight a few female duos who share not only DNA, but a passion for their trade.

Be Kind Coffee Co. Clemmons, NC

@bekindcoffeeco

Amanda & Natalie Gogolak

“Working alongside my mother (Natalie Gogolak, Owner and Chief Mother in Charge) has been a lifelong dream of mine, as she’s been my best friend, a nonstop source of encouragement, and my partner in crime for 35 years. If there’s an adventure to be had, a new challenge to conquer, or fun to discover, Mom is the first to say, ‘I’m in!’ So naturally, when we thought about finally pursuing our family dream of opening a coffee shop (even in the midst of a pandemic), Mom and I jumped headfirst into our next adventure! There is truly nothing we cannot achieve when we do it together, and we’re going to cherish, laugh and love each other (and others) along the way, side by side.” - Amanda Gogolak, Owner and CEO

Batistini Farms Winston-Salem, NC

@batistinifarms

Lauren & Cindy Sephton, “I can honestly say that it is a pure blessing to work alongside a heart as big as Lauren’s, and I’m so thankful for our mother-daughter bond. Her positivity, energy, and creativity explode daily, so much so that I have to tell her, ‘one day at a time…’.”

- Cindy Sephton, Co-Founder “Growing up, my mom was my biggest inspiration, and to work alongside her now is honestly a dream. While not every day goes perfectly as planned, she always knows how to find the good and make a funny memory out of it.” - Lauren Sephton

Fraleigh’s Boutique | Clemmons, NC

@fraleighsboutique

Ally & Donna Merriman “I am unbelievably grateful to have the opportunity to work with my mother-in-law (Donna Merriman), and to help continue to grow the business and carry on the legacy.” - Ally Merriman “Being able to work with your mom (Mary Bingham) everyday was a gift, as well as a blessing. We had a bond and friendship that flourished in the 35 years of working together. I miss her everyday, but I am grateful for all the memories and opportunities she afforded me over the years.” - Donna Merriman, Owner

Evelyn Rose Boutique | Winston-Salem, NC

@theevelynroseboutique

Rachel & Christi Morales “Owning a boutique comes with some of the greatest experiences, and one that I’m especially grateful for is the ability to work so closely with my mom. It’s nice to be able to share the good and the bad of owning a business with someone you trust. She helps keep me grounded when life as a business owner gets hectic. We work well together, because I’m more creative and enjoy focusing more on that aspect of the business. My mom, however, is very organized and helps me keep the administrative tasks in line.” - Rachel Morales, Owner

“Rachel has always had an eye for fashion and style, and I enjoy being able to support her and watch her dreams become reality. I believe we complement each other, and we have fun working together. Plus, the free clothes are a great perk!” - Christi Morales, COO

Lavender & Honey Kitchen Winston-Salem, NC

@lavenderandhoneykitchen

Naomi & Natalie Gingerich,

“I never imagined that I would start my own business with my daughter Natalie at age 55, but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. While there were initially some adjustments in learning to differentiate between the roles of mom and daughter versus business owners, we have learned to appreciate the strengths of each other and also to acknowledge our weaknesses. We both feel incredibly blessed to work alongside each other in a business we love.”

-Naomi Gingerich, alongside Natalie Gingerich, owners of Lavender and Honey Kitchen.

Cherry Tree Lane Cookies Winston-Salem, NC

@cherrytreelanecookies

Suzanne & Ryan Snelling

“The ability to be my own boss and grow this small business has been amazing. Having my daughter Ryan as my business partner has been the biggest blessing. It is great to have someone you trust completely, but also to have someone you have so much fun with! I value her opinions and look to her for creative input.” - Suzanne Snelling, Founder “My mom Suzanne has always made it a point to nourish my creative spirit. We’ve had a lifetime of crafty endeavors together, but this is by far my favorite. I am lucky enough to be working with someone who pours her entire heart and soul into her creations and inspires me every day. Joining our skills for this project is so rewarding and fun, and has helped us strengthen our already airtight bond.” - Ryan Snelling, Co-Founder

Banner Team Properties Winston-Salem, NC

@KBBBroker | @bannerteamNC

Kayla Berry & Jerri Banner

“I really enjoy working with my mother Jerri. She motivates me to be my best and is very inspirational. I can always go to her with questions and gain solid real estate advice, no matter the time of day or night. I aspire to be just like her one day!”

- Kayla Berry, Realtor “It is very rewarding to work with my daughter Kayla. Even though she said she would never be a realtor when she was growing up, I think it is the perfect career for her. She comes up with new ideas that make me rethink things I have been doing for many years. I am very proud of her.” - Jerri Banner, Realtor/Broker in Charge

The Songbird House | Pilot Mountain, NC

@thesongbirdhouse

Jenna & Sharon Keener

“Working as a mother-daughter business, we have the advantage of generational perspective and complementing strength. Even though we are very different, we’ve found a balance that makes us a great team. My mom Sharon is the hardest working person I know. I’ll always be thankful for this opportunity to start and grow this business with her.” - Jenna Keener, Owner alongside Mother Sharon Keener

“Working alongside Jenna and helping her build a business in the industry she loves has been an absolute pleasure. Her creativity combined with her dedication to make sure each customer had an amazing product and experience makes her the dream partner. Helping my children succeed is my highest achievement and greatest joy.” - Sharon Keener, Owner

Forsyth Magazines

@forsythmags

Brooke Eagle & Keela Johnson

“Working with my mom is the biggest blessing. If you could only hear us talk on the phone! We get each other so worked up and excited over new ideas. Her passion for the magazines (and for life) has rubbed off on me in a big way over the years and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

-Brooke Eagle, Publisher of Forsyth Woman & FW Engaged “Brooke once said she sometimes felt like we were the same person, which was one of the biggest compliments of my life. She is my hero in so many ways. Turning the business over to Brooke was one of the best decisions of my life. She was made to be the publisher/owner of this amazing family of magazines. I couldn’t be prouder!”

- Keela Johnson, Associate Editor

A Master Gardener Reinvented

BY ETHAN BURNS, AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Pamela Anderson Bowen has been a master gardener for years, but her journey back to nurturing her flowers has not been easy. “I have a passion for the outdoors and nature, and I love to dig in the dirt,” Pamela said. “After my last stroke, gardening was the first thing I wanted to be able to do again.”

Pamela is a four-time stroke survivor. She didn’t even know she had her first two strokes. In 2012, she had her third official stroke in the shower. She was trying to turn the faucet off but her right arm wouldn’t move. “When I was stepping out of the shower, I could feel my face drooping and I knew immediately that it was a stroke,” she remembered. At the emergency room her suspicions were confirmed. The physicians at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center told her it was a stroke and let her know that it was not her first. They also discovered that her strokes were due to antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, which makes her blood more likely to clot, and her clot traveled through an undiscovered hole in her heart. But that’s not the end of Pamela’s stroke story.

Approximately two years later, her husband Larry walked into the kitchen and knew that something was not right. “I knew I didn’t feel like myself and I was doing strange things. I was actually burning my own hand on the griddle,” recalled Pam. Once again, Larry jumped into action. “I lovingly call him ‘Flatline Larry,’ as he is so calm in a crisis,” Pamela shared.

After her fourth stroke, Pamela lost her ability to speak for three months. “It was incredibly difficult to know what I wanted to say, but to not be able to communicate it,” she shared. When her speech did come back, with much effort and therapy, it came with a surprise. She suffers from Foreign Accent Syndrome due to the stroke. Though she used to do a lot of international travel with her career, the accent is not from one distinct place, but rather a mix of accents. “I grew up in Hickory, North Carolina and with my new accent after the stroke, only a few ‘choice’ words come out with a southern accent,” Pamela said with a smile. Physicians often ask her to share her story to help others in North Carolina dealing with this rare side effect.

Pamela spends a lot of time taking care of her garden, which she adores dearly. She acknowledges that even with all that has happened to her, she keeps a smile on her face and a positive attitude. “After my first stroke, a relative brought me some very unusual clippings from her garden to add to my garden at our new home. That really motivated me to get back to my passion,” shared Pamela.

“Gardening is important to me and is my way of enjoying life. It’s important to realize that there is still life after stroke,” said Pamela. “For me, I plant my flowers and watch them grow. That I can still do.”

May is American Stroke Month and women account for nearly 58% of total stroke deaths. The American Heart Association recommends F.A.S.T for the most common warning signs for stroke. F.A.S.T stands for: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 911. For more information, please go to stroke.org.

Pamela Anderson Bowen is sharing her story to increase awareness of stroke in women. Novant Health is proud to be the American Heart Association’s “Life is Why” and “Go Red for Women” sponsor in Forsyth County, celebrating, supporting and encouraging women to put their health first wherever they may be in their journey.

American Heart Association