Each month Voice will “hide” a picture of a “Hot Hunk.” If you find him, fill out this form, mail it in, and you could win a book from Jan-Carol Publishing!
Congratulations to: Ann P. Miller Bristol, VA
as the winner in the March Hot Hunk Hunt!
Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!
Name: Address:
City:
State: Zip Code:
Phone Number: Email: HOT HUNK LOCATION:
July Hot Hunk Hunt! The April “Hot Hunk” was Robert Downey Jr. on page 31.
Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?
Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is April 20, 2025. PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD
On the Cover
Hensley
LVOICE Speaks FREE
ater in the month of April, we celebrate the holiday of Easter. For Christians, Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, a pivotal event that signifies hope, new life, and victory over death, marking the culmination of the “Passion of Christ” and the foundation of the Christian faith. Also, just as we hear about Santa Claus at the Christmas holiday, we hear about the Easter Bunny at the Easter holiday. As a child, Easter was also the time for a new spring outfit. It was time for coloring hardboiled eggs, which represented the of colors of spring. It was fun boiling the eggs and coloring them. Then, the thrill of the Easter egg hunt unfolded as Mom and Dad hid the eggs in the yard. We would find those hidden Easter eggs well beyond Easter Sunday, which were treasured memories of that Easter day.
Finding unexpected treasures are always fun. One way to find unexpected treasures is to follow us on social media and sign up for our weekly newsletter to keep up to date on all our activities. We offer discounts on both. In addition, be sure to follow our book blog and listen to our podcast, both of which are called Bookmarked. Our audience continues to grow. We interview different authors and guests most weeks, and we provide information about the book publishing industry.
We ask all of you to share JCP’s books. If you are a school board member or a schoolteacher, reach out to us to see how some of our books may serve your class project or be a positive addition to your library. JCP offers volume purchase discounts.
So, as we enter this new spring season, we are counting on all of you — our readers, supporters, advertisers, business owners, and fans to join us and continue to show your support to JCP and Voice Magazine for Women. Thank you for being there!
From all of us to all of you, we hope you have a Happy Easter and will have a wonderful spring season!
Verse of the Month: “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” — Psalm 31:24 KJV
Thought of the Month: “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.” — Lucille Ball, Actress
Celebrating our 21st anniversary! We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!
PUBLISHER
Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 publisher@jancarolpublishing.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Draco Bailey Communications Director & Publishing Assistant communications@jancarolpublishing.com
Voice Magazine for Women wants to provide a useful and complete reliable source of information for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s successes, and support their growth by defining and recognizing their needs and providing a concentration of resources for them. We want to be that “link” to all women.
Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief
Pam Blair Vishad Doshi Ken Heath April Hensley Dirk Moore Cindy Sproles
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES:
YWCA NETN & SWVA Partner with Emory & Henry
Students
for Powerhouse Community Wellness + Resource Center in Glade Spring, VA
Article Provided by Dirk Moore, Emory & Henry University
Four Emory & Henry students recently presented their research related to community-based substance abuse prevention at a symposium in Washington, D.C.
Thestudents were among a select group of university student researchers who presented at the symposium hosted on Dec. 6–7 by the Appalachian Collegiate Research Institute. The students — Erin Ryan, Vivian Vanderpool, Lydia Schrock, and Stephen Smith — gathered and presented data from individuals recovering from substance use disorder, including those striving to overcome poverty.
The project was a collaboration between Emory & Henry University and the YWCA of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. Student research will support the work of the newly created Powerhouse, a holistic community wellness and resource center, which will serve Smyth and Washington counties in Virginia.
The research will help Glade Spring significantly as it strives to be a model community in addressing addiction prevention and recovery, according to Dr. Theresa Burriss, who advised the student researchers.
“We hope this research will go a long way in helping the YWCA and the Glade Spring community determines individual and family goals and needs related to holistic health, substance use disorder recovery, and transitions to gainful employment.”
Emory & Henry was one of 15 colleges and universities represented by student researchers at the symposium. The Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative (ACRI), formerly known as the Appalachian Teaching Project (ATP), is an applied research training program for Appalachian college and graduate students to support economic development initiatives for their communities.
YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, assist families, and strengthen our community. With a goal of supporting family resiliency in our region, as well as fostering confident, successful, and healthy girls and women, the YWCA is part of an international movement serving over 2 million in the United States and 25 million worldwide. For more information about YWCA NETN and SWVA, visit www.ywcatnva.org. Connect with Powerhouse Community Wellness + Resource Center on Facebook to stay updated on information and events.
Below are a few ideas to help you make plans for your Earth Day.
• Watch your local news and newspaper for community events in your town. Metropolitan areas usually have bigger gatherings but small local communities have get-togethers too.
• Plant or pot a tree, bush, or flower for your home or yard. Pick trees that fit the size of your yard when fully grown. Don’t plant too close to powerlines. Before digging deep holes, call your service provider to mark underground utilities.
EBy April Hensley
arth Day celebrates its 55th anniversary in 2025. The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. It was planned as a way for concerned Americans to show their support for clean air and water. Millions of people came together that day across the United States from all walks of life in their communities. By the end of that year, the Environmental Protection Agency had been formed and laws protecting water, air, and wildlife were put into place. Earth Day is now remembered every year on April 22 with events in countries all around the world. This year on Earth Day, if the weather is nice in the area, it would be lovely to just sit outside for a few minutes and notice nature. Smell the air, look at the sky, and listen to the birds. Spending time outdoors has been shown in studies to help reduce stress hormones.
• Start a vegetable garden. In zone 7 it’s too early to put out warm-loving plants like tomatoes and peppers but you can start seeds, buy plants, and plan with your family and friends where and what you want to grow.
• Start a recycling plan. Pick one item such as plastic, newspapers, glass, etc. that you want to recycle. Buy a container to hold the items. Find out where a recycling center is in your area.
• Plan an outdoor event such as a picnic or nature walk. Talk to your boss, pastor, or family about helping to organize the fun.
• Tell others about Earth Day such as children, family, friends, and co-workers, and post on social media. Hand out tiny packs of wildflowers to help spread the word.
• Start a compost bin to recycle vegetable scraps, coffee grinds, grass clippings, leaves, and shredded newspapers.
• For your next major purchase, think about choosing a more energy-efficient automobile, appliance, or home heating unit.
ideas for families to make a difference
Every year around a billion people are motivated to protect the planet for Earth Day. Families can work together to do their part in protecting the environment. Here are some ways families can commemorate Earth Day together.
Clean up the neighborhood
Families can work together to make their neighborhoods cleaner. Litter in streets or parks can end up in waterways after being carried into storm drains by rain or wind, according to the Marine Debris Program. A 2016 report from the United Nations found that nearly 50 percent of cetacean and seabird species have ingested litter. Picking up litter from local neighborhoods is a relatively easy way for families to do their part on Earth Day.
Walk and bike more
Families can learn about their carbon footprints and how their lifestyle choices affect the environment. One way to cut down on carbon emissions is to walk or bike to school and to skip the car whenever possible.
Plant more greenery
It doesn’t have to be a tree, but families can visit a garden center to purchase seeds, seedlings, or full-grown shrubbery to enhance their landscapes with more Earthfriendly plants. CO2METER, a carbon dioxide monitoring website, says plants and trees, combined with oceans, remove about 45 percent of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activities each year. A typical hardwood tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of CO2 per year.
Create reusable bags
Individuals can turn old T-shirts and other clothing into reusable cloth shopping bags. There are no-sew project instructions online that offer tips about how to repurpose old clothing that is no longer worn into something Earth-friendly.
Visit a local park or wildlife habitat
Families can experience the beauty of nature and be reminded about humankind’s responsibility to protect habitats and wildlife at a park, sanctuary or wildlife area. When visiting, it’s important to stick to trails and remain mindful of leaving no trace behind.
Embrace locally grown foods
Families can plan meals together that feature in-season foods purchased at a local organic farmer’s market.
Earth Day is a time when families can work together to help protect and preserve the planet.
April Hensley: Growing Strong
By Allison Chudina Photographs Contributed
April Hensley knows a thing or two about gardening and growing. April, who is an avid gardener and nature lover, recently had her first-ever book published. Called Four Seasons: Gardening and Growing in Zone 7 , the book offers tips and tricks of the trade for newbie gardeners wanting to get into the hobby throughout the four seasons of a year.
Not only is April a talented gardener, but also she has written numerous articles for Voice Magazine for Women over the years and been featured in short story anthologies, in addition to getting her book published.
April says that, growing up, she really had the “best of both worlds” between her gardening side and her writing side. “I had a magical childhood growing up in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia,” she said. “My dad was the outdoor lover of my two parents and took us all on lots of wildlife adventures. Having grown up in the mountains, Dad knew all the different names of trees, plants and animals. We hiked through woods, played in creeks, and spent lazy summer nights on the porch watching fireflies. My mother is the book lover of the two. She faithfully took us to the public library at least once a week. I was a big tomboy, but I could also sit for hours devouring as many books as possible.”
April dreamed of being a writer when she was in elementary school. She wanted to create “new worlds to entertain people,” she said. “I would get lost in reading and did the same while writing. It seemed like a distant dream, though.”
April wrote for her high school newspaper and loved that experience, but she says that after graduating, she “jumped into the job market” and mostly wrote for herself as a hobby.
She and her husband, Danny, started a construction and remodeling business when they were in their 20s, Home Pro of the Tri-Cities, which is still going strong today. “But Danny believed in me and always encouraged me to follow my dream,” April said. “I saw Mountain Girl Press was accepting submissions for an anthology around 20 years ago. My first short story was accepted for publication. It was a dream come true to be a published writer.”
When asked how she found herself writing articles for Voice Magazine , April said it all began around 10 years ago. “At that time, the magazine asked for anyone interested in writing about several topics to send articles in for consideration,” she said. “I was spending nights and weekends growing plants for sale at the local farmers market. I loved helping people at the farmers market
Danny and April Hensley
with their questions about gardening. I got more satisfaction from helping than I did from selling. I thought maybe I could expand on that by writing about garden and growing topics.”
April’s favorite part of writing her gardening-themed articles is knowing she gets to pass on her knowledge and love of gardening to others. “I also love that my two loves— the outdoors and writing—could come together,” she said.
So, where does April’s passion for gardening come from? She says that, as a child, she was “obsessed with seeds. I would collect them from flowers, bushes, trees, and even grass while I played in the yard. I think gardening and seeds should be classified as two different hobbies. I have more seeds than I could ever plant in my lifetime, but I know I will collect more. I love to trade and share seeds with others, too.”
April noted that she recently found out that one of her ancestors started the oldest seed company in the United States. “I guess it’s in my DNA!” she joked.
April said she had a few houseplants when she and her husband lived in an apartment, but once they started looking for a house, she knew she wanted a big space for a garden. “I have had a garden of varying size every year since 1997,” she said. “Every time I see a tiny sprout or a bud opening on a tree, I am in awe of the miracle of new life.”
April’s advice to all the aspiring gardeners out there is to be adventurous. “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes,” she said. “Gardening is a hobby that teaches you as you
go. Every year you will get better and gain more knowledge. Always check the first and last frost date, and watch the weather every day.”
Right now, April’s home garden features “rhubarb from Danny’s grandmother, garlic chives that are thick as grass, rose bushes and blackberries that have leaves opening up, blooming apple trees, spinach, some iris leaves shooting up, and lots of weeds,” she said.
Being a nature lover is very important to April. “To me, loving nature means getting to spend as much free time as possible in the outdoors,” she said. “I enjoy getting to see birds, animals, and even most bugs. It is peaceful and relaxing. Gardeners, fishermen, hikers, hunters, and other outdoor lovers are the first to notice if something is off with the water, or fewer bees, or a plant or animal disease. These are the humans who are dedicated to protecting the environment because they want to pass it on to future generations to enjoy.”
Regarding April’s book, she says her main goal was to reach new audiences and encourage others to take up gardening and truly enjoy the outdoors. “ Four Seasons: Gardening and Growing in Zone 7 is something I am so proud of,” she said. “It is surreal seeing a book with my name on the front. Jan-Carol Publishing did a beautiful job on the book, and my friends and family jumped in to help with the cover and blurb. As with all of my articles, I hope the book can reach a wider audience to help encourage others who want to learn about gardening and the outdoors.”
A Spring Lawn Revitalization Strategy
New growth is a hallmark of spring, whether it plays out in the birth of birds and bunnies or with the returned buds on trees and plant stalks. While most greenery rebounds naturally, lawns may need a little extra TLC in order to return to their once lush, green glory.
Revitalizing a lawn in spring is a multifaceted process but can be well worth the reward when green grass adds to a beautiful landscape and functional yard. Here is how to get started when the weather warms, courtesy of The Farmer’s Almanac and The Home Depot.
• Clean up debris. Spend a few hours raking up leaves from the lawn and removing any other winter debris like twigs so that air can reach the grass below. Also remove any thatch that has developed.
• Test the soil. Take a sample of the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient needs. Then you can make adjustments to set a strong foundation for the lawn to grow.
• Do some weeding. Pull out any weeds that have poked through early on and apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent additional weeds from taking over.
• Start the aeration process. A core aerator punches holes into the soil. This enables air and water to penetrate through to the roots.
• Overseed the lawn. Apply grass seeds over the lawn, paying special attention to any bare or thin areas so that the seed will fill in the lawn.
• Water consistently. It is important to water the lawn deeply and consistently, especially when the weather is dry, to help promote strong root development.
• Time fertilizer correctly. Apply a spring fertilizer around three weeks after the lawn starts to turn green or after the first two or three mowings. If fertilizer is applied too early it can feed weeds instead of the grass and result in fertilizer runoff.
• Mow to an appropriate height. Begin to mow when the ground is dry enough and the grass is long enough to need cutting. Leave some length to the lawn; otherwise, sunlight will reach the soil and encourage weed seeds to germinate.
With a little elbow grease at the start of spring, homeowners can establish strong and healthy lawns.
Gardening Safety for Seniors
There’s no shortage of things to do outside in spring, and the season marks a perfect time to reestablish one’s green thumb and get down and dirty in the garden. Gardening is a rewarding and healthy activity, though some, particularly seniors, may need to approach springtime sessions in the garden with a heightened degree of caution. Seniors can keep these health and safety tips in mind as they celebrate the return of spring and what that means for their gardens.
• Recognize that gardening is exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies gardening as a good form of exercise, and evidence supports the notion that gardening is a particularly beneficial form of physical activity. A 2024 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry indicated that individuals who engaged in low levels of leisure time physical activities such as gardening are likely to have a lower risk of stroke than peers who are sedentary. It’s important to keep these findings in mind when gardening, which is perhaps more physically demanding than some may recognize. Seniors can approach gardening just like they would other forms of exercise, taking the same precautions, such as stretching before and after each session and making a concerted effort to remain hydrated, while out in the garden.
• Incorporate rest into your garden routine. Rest is vital for anyone engaged in physical activity, including gardeners. Frequent breaks during gardening sessions can help avoid strains and sprains and provide opportunities to hydrate and get out of the sun. If possible, seniors can identify a shaded
spot on their properties and place a bench there so they have somewhere to rest during gardening sessions.
• Utilize ergonomic gardening tools and other specialized products. The Center for Excellence in Disabilities at West Virginia University notes that ergonomics studies movements of a person’s body during physical activities in an effort to produce tools that ensure a task has as little physical impact on the body as possible. Ergonomic tools are designed to lower injury risk, improve efficiency, and increase satisfaction that stems from performing a particular activity. In addition, seniors can utilize specialized products, including long-handled gardening tools that reduce the need to bend over or kneel down, to further reduce their risk of injury while working in the garden.
These simple strategies can ensure seniors’ springtime gardening sessions are as safe as they are rewarding.
Voicemail Male
By Ken Heath
News Junkie
I’m a news junkie, but it’s becoming a very hard thing to be. For some time now, American politics has been a dumpster fire. It’s one side against the other, each defending their silo as if their life depended upon it. Me? I’m a “shoe on the other foot” pragmatist. If the person were of the opposite party, would you still be outraged? If so, then it’s worth a look on how it needs to be corrected. If not, it’s just politics as usual.
I can only reflect on history and realize we as a nation have suffered great divides, from our country’s inception to the Civil War to Segregation to the turmoil of the 60s/70s. And each time, our better angels rose to the challenge. The pendulum swings, but nowadays, it swings further left and right, with most everyone not of the extremes passed by or cut to shreds. Moderates have no port in this storm right now. We’ve grown accustomed to polarized points, each
Delight
By Mike DeVries
The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 KJV
Interpretation: The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.
Ihadbeen having some less-than-stellar past few weeks. In a conversation with a friend, he stopped me and said, “You know, since we’ve been talking you’ve used the word ‘inadequate’ a half dozen times when talking about yourself. Why?” I realized I’d been having a hard time seeing what God sees in me. Ever been there? Ever been in a place where you felt inadequate, incapable, centrally flawed? Ever had the feeling of just not being able to move past something that is haunting you? Ever been in a place where you just felt so far from being anything God could ever love?
feeling justified in viciously defending a position because “they did it too.”
With social media, we’ve grown less sensitive to basic human decency far too often, ready at the keyboard to spout things we’d never considered uttering a generation ago. And lastly, we’ve grown indifferent, maybe even addicted, to outrage. We tend to gravitate to things that wind us up, needing that next “fix.” I have never agreed 100% with anyone—including my past self—and I understand that today’s politicians on both sides are so far removed from we the people on most occasions that arguing on their behalf is like picking the least stinky pickle in a barrel and trying to get somebody else to take a bite. We get our information filtered, so supporters and detractors can see the exact same thing but through different lenses. Both are right and both are wrong. It’s like looking at a cow. The view is very different depending upon which end you’re staring into.
I’m just hopeful, maybe foolishly, that we can let history show the full and lasting impact, good or bad, about any administration, and in the meantime, we collectively pray for success and blessings while voicing our opinions, because we rise or fall together.
{Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his ‘real job’, Ken is owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to Miss Reagan and their rescue Scottie the Wonder Dog with his wonderful wife. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.
It seems that at the heart of the inadequacy issue is a deep sense that we just cannot freely embrace the person God sees in us. Why is it that we struggle with being loved?
The reality is that we are loved and have value, not because of what we do, or even could do if we wanted. We have value and are loved by our Creator merely and essentially because we are His. Much like parents love and value their children — not because they are obedient, but merely because they are — so it is with God and us.
You are God’s creation — embraced, loved, valued, cherished, even delighted over. Nothing will ever change this fact. No amount of obedience will change it. No amount of disobedience will change it. This is grace. This is love. When we embrace life in Christ, we actually are made new again, made whole again, made holy. The old has gone. The new has come.
I find it fascinating that when Paul addresses the communities of Jesus, he never opened his letters to them calling them “sinners.” Instead, he calls them saints.
So I guess the challenge for us is to be what we already are: holy, loved, made whole and free. These are not things God merely sees us as…they are things we actually are. You are loved. You are valued. You are cherished. Is this not the Good News? Source: www.homeword.com
Tips to Make a Living Room a More Comfortable, Welcoming Space
Living rooms tend to be go-to spaces for family movie nights, game watches with fellow fans and places to gather during holiday celebrations. That’s a lot of quality time spent in the living room, and those moments can be more enjoyable if the space is as comfortable as possible. With that in mind, people can consider various ways to make living rooms more comfortable.
• Prioritize comfort over aesthetics. In an era of Instagram, it’s easy to fall head over heels with images when designing a living room. Aesthetic appeal certainly has its place in a living room, but it’s important to remember how much living will be done in these rooms when designing them. Comfortable couches and furnishings like ottomans can make it easier to relax in the living room whether you’re watching a movie, cheering on your favorite team, or reading a book.
• Ensure there’s ample seating. It can be hard to feel comfortable in cramped quarters whether you’re welcoming friends and family into your home or simply lounging around on Sunday mornings. If comfort is your top priority, arrange the room so there’s ample seating throughout and people don’t feel like they’re sitting on top of one another when spending time in the room.
• Consider neutral paint colors. Furnishings are not the only things that can affect how comfortable people feel in a living room. The home improvement experts at The Spruce note that neutral paint colors with warm undertones help to establish a
cozy feel in a living room. Various shades of white, beige, tan, or even gray can help to establish a warm, comfortable vibe in a living room.
• Incorporate the outdoors into the room. The great outdoors can have a calming effect on anyone, so it makes sense that incorporating the outdoors into a living room can make the space feel more comfortable. Furnish the room with plants and look for items with earth-toned furnishings to create a calm and comfortable vibe in the space. In addition, new windows that allow for more natural light and offer views into a yard can help lift spirits and make the room feel more comfortable.
A comfortable living room is a space where people will want to spend their time. A few simple strategies can help create an inviting and comfortable vibe in any living room.
Emotional Landscapes — A Journey Through Music’s Deepest Emotions
Experience emotions like only music can convey. From the stirring trumpets of Charpentier’s Te Deum Overture to the introspection of Fauré’s Requiem, and the triumphant celebration of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, this concert takes audiences through a rich tapestry of sound and feeling.
Symphony of the Mountains returns to the historic Paramount Bristol Theatre on Sunday, April 6, at 3:00 p.m., joined by Voices of the Mountains, for an afternoon of music that stirs the soul.
Fauré described his Requiem as “a lullaby of death,” a serene and deeply personal work inspired by the loss of his parents. The program culminates in Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, a thrilling masterpiece of rhythm and joy, ending with one of the most electrifying finales in orchestral music.
Tickets: $40 – Available at MySOTM.org or call (423) 392-8423
Date: Sunday, April 6
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Location: Paramount Bristol | Bristol, TN
Tickets: $40 (Students and children are free! Call (423) 392-8423 to reserve tickets)
Start a Vintage Collection
By Pam Blair
Remember the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes”? Bell Buckle, Tennessee is a little railroad town with a train depot that looks like the one in the movie, with a row of quaint shops and cafés located near the tracks. Established in 1856, Bell Buckle is known for its antiques and home cooking, and it’s where the collecting bug first bit me when my friend Janet and I stopped there on a lazy afternoon. She was visiting from Mississippi, and we wandered into one of the cute antique shops filled with things we suddenly couldn’t live without. Janet and I fought over several “who saw it first” items and she found so many treasures, she was obliged to buy a four-piece set of luggage just to haul it all back home on the airplane.
Maybe I was responding to an ancient instinct to hunt and gather, but my life as a collector of vintage pieces started on that visit to Bell Buckle, where I discovered McCoy pottery. Originating in 1910 in Roseville, Ohio, McCoy pottery comes in a myriad of deep colors, it’s whimsical and has a distinctive glaze. I bought at least a dozen pieces of McCoy that day and over time, my vintage collections grew to include tole trays, antique glassware, and unusual dishes, but what brings me the most joy is remembering where I found my favorites and the stories they must tell.
I discovered one of them on a country road where a flea market was set up on card tables, and I spotted an aqua McCoy vase as soon as I parked the car. The seller was an old man who was proud of his wares, and as I looked over the pile of stuff on his table, we sized each other up. I casually asked him the price for the vase, and he gave it some thought. Then, hands on hips, he declared “That’s McCoy! They don’t make it anymore and I’d have to get two dollars for it!” I knew from studying a McCoy pottery book that the vase was valued at $35 and up. My hands trembled slightly as I ripped the money from my wallet, but I was secretly giddy with delight at the bargain I had scored.
Collecting gets in your blood but it’s not necessarily lucrative. When my husband and I watch PBS’ popular “Antiques Roadshow,” he asks me why I never collected anything of real value. Hey, you buy what you like! That’s
the rule when collecting, although we all want to be like the woman who bought a painting for $45 and took it to the Roadshow, only to learn that another painting was hidden behind it. It was a rare primitive work painted on wood by a famous artist, and it was valued at $250,000. I’ll keep looking for a gem like that, but meanwhile, my obsession with vintage items is now mostly under control. I’ve pared my collection down to the ones that give me pleasure every time I look at them. And that proves that it’s always wise to collect what you love, whether it’s worth anything or not.
{Pam Blair is a former medical librarian and communications manager who gets nervous when she doesn’t have something to read. She loves descriptive writing and has authored and edited a book and numerous other publications. Contact her at pblair919@aol.com.
McCoy pottery
Vintage pieces
Submit your Frightful Short Stories to These Haunted Hills
Jan-Carol Publishing’s These Haunted Hills series has produced six frightening editions since debuting in the fall of 2017. Each anthology is filled with stories that indulge readers’ curiosity for the supernatural from an array of accomplished authors. These Haunted Hills: Book 7 is set for publication in autumn 2025.
Stories submitted to the seventh edition of JCP’s haunting anthology collection should follow the theme of spooky or supernatural stories set in the Appalachian region. Stories must be fiction and should be between 1500 and 3500 words. Please include with your submission a short author bio. Author bios should be no more than 50 words and should be written in third person.
The submission fee per story is $25, and authors are allowed to submit a max of two stories. You may call the office at 423.926.9983 with a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605.
Authors accepted to the anthology will receive three free books upon publication and can order additional copies at wholesale pricing.
The deadline for submissions is May 31, 2025. Send your submissions to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com. Join the host of talented writers to take part in our most beloved anthology series!
Celebrate the Holidays by Joining JCP’s First Christmas Anthology
Authors may submit up to two stories for a fee of $25 per story. You may call the office at 423.926.9983 with a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605.
Accepted authors will receive three free copies of Christmas All Year Long and can order additional copies at wholesale pricing.
The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2025. Send your submissions to submissions@ jancarolpublishing.com.
JCP is now accepting submissions for our first holiday-themed short story collection, Christmas All Year Long: An Anthology of Holly Jolly Tales . Christmas All Year Long will join JCP’s other in-house anthologies, including their popular These Haunted Hills series and their Appalachian-inspired series featuring titles such as Daffodil Dreams and Scattered Flowers Other titles in JCP’s anthologies include Snowy Trails and Steamy Creek: A Cozy Romance Anthology . Stories submitted to Christmas All Year Long should be themed for the holiday season and must be fiction. Stories should have between 1500 and 3500 words. Please include with your submission a short author bio. Author bios should be no more than 50 words and should be written in third person.
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Jan-Carol Publishing, a small book press, brings book publishing tips, changes in the book publishing industry, introduction to authors, books, and working behind the scenes in the book publishing industry. Listen, learn, and enjoy the interviews with different authors.
NEW RELEASES OUT NOW!
Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is a small independent publishing press with a motivated force of authors. Mountain Girl Press, Little Creek Books, Express Editions, DigiStyle, Broken Crow Ridge, Fiery Night, Skippy Creek, and RoseHeart Publishing are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
The Tooth Fairy Has a Problem
Written by Neil Wollman, Kim Johanson, and Norma Nelson
Under Watchful Eyes
Written by Daryll Simcox
The Tooth Fairy has run out of money and can’t figure out what to do with all the teeth she has collected. What can she do?
Online readers: click here to order.
Moe, The Traveling Fish
Written by Audrey Jane
Illustrated by Jessica Beaver
Moe, The Traveling Fish is a one-of-a-kind, adventurous, true story about a betta fish who traveled with his owners, Nana, Papa, and their grandkids, from Maryland to Iowa. On their way west, Papa got lost and ended up at a luxurious resort nestled in the Pennsylvania mountains, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Experience the adventure through the mind of Nana’s clever fish, Moe. He sees the ordinary as extraordinary. Enjoy his adventure, and maybe one day you can experience the beautiful Nemacolin Woodlands Resort for yourself! Online readers: click here to order.
On the first anniversary of the failed reality show at Port Chatham, a group of individuals have been selected to return for the retrieval of those who didn’t get to come home. Some are well aware of what awaits them, while others are oblivious to the dangers they will encounter.
Online readers: click here to pre-order.
Tommy the Quarterback
After the death of his wife of over 30 years, Rick Morgan tries to navigate life without Lisa by his side. He will come to understand through the people he surrounds himself with—friends both new and old—that heroes don’t always come equipped with capes and grand gestures. Heroes are those in your circle who take your hand and pull you through the tough times, and these special people give you the hope and strength to carry on. Although Rick is a broken man, he continues to move forward, guided by family connections, old memories, and a newfound purpose. Online readers:
Appalachian Runaway A Dog’s Tale for Grown-Ups
Written by Rachael Roberts Bliss
Appalachian Runaway: A Dog’s Tale for Grown-Ups adult readers have the opportunity to meet a dog that wants more out of life than being a human’s pet. She has her sights set on experiencing a life out in the woods. Although she now lives in an exquisite house in the mountains of North Carolina with a child who considers her as a best buddy, she soon realizes that she has to escape before she goes to the vet to be fixed, whatever that means. One day she gets her opportunity that leads to struggles of loneliness, danger, capture, and new friendships—and even love. What’s more, she describes her adventure out in the wild in her own words. Online readers: click here to order.
Written by Donald Greco
Is one man tough enough to take on the most formidable forces—and still not lose heart? This gritty and gripping novel of a small-town murder tells the tale of one man’s final chance at personal redemption—in a deadly swirl of political corruption, reignited passion, and a renewed purpose in what it takes to be an honest cop in Youngstown, Ohio. Online readers: click here to pre-order.
Zeppagain: Led By Zeppelin
Written by R.T. Bond
From the emerald shores of Ireland to the dazzling lights of international stages, Swan Montgomery’s journey is a rock ‘n’ roll odyssey that defies the ordinary. As the powerhouse vocalist of Led Zepagain, he transformed a tribute band into a global phenomenon that caught the ear of Jimmy Page himself. Through sold-out shows and groundbreaking projects, Mont-gomery and Led Zepagain have redefined what a tribute band can be, turning every performance into a new chapter in rock history. Online readers: click here to pre-order.
The Locas: A Collection of Stories about 13 “Crazy Women”
Written by Carol Owen Reynolds
In Carol Owen Reynolds’ The Locas, come on a journey as the author regales readers with stories and accounts involving her best friends and influential women in her life—the locas (in Spanish, a “loca” is a crazy woman). This personal book about Carol’s life before and after the interference of the Catholic Cursillo will make readers both laugh at some of the more humorous stories and reflect on past memories held dear. Online readers: click here to pre-order.
Written By Neil Wollman,
Rachael Roberts Bliss
AUTHORS on the ROAD
Linda Hudson Hoagland
Author of The Lindsay Harris Murder Mystery Series , The Best Darn Secret ; and anthologies Easter Lilies ; Broken Petals ; Wild Daisies ; Scattered Flowers ; Daffodil Dreams ; and These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Books 1–6
Friday, April 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Bluefield, VA
Saturday, April 5, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Coeburn, VA
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Appalachian Authors Guild General Meeting Board Meeting 12 p.m. –1 p.m. Workshop: READ Program Virginia Highland Small Business Incubator Abingdon, VA
Friday, April 11, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Vansant, VA
Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Abingdon, VA
Thursday, April 17, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Book Signing Buchanan County Library Author Event Grundy, VA
Friday, April 18, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Bonham Road, Bristol, VA
Saturday, April 19, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Shelbiana, KY
Friday, April 25, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Book Signing at Food City Chilhowie, VA
Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City Wytheville, VA
Bookmarked is a platform designed to highlight and promote authors and books associated with Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc., and beyond. The blog and podcast feature interviews with authors, updates related to JCP events, and other bookish content you won’t find anywhere else.
Interview with G. S. Craft
Author of The Adventures of Louie: From a Playful Great Dane Puppy to a Gentle Giant
BOOKMARKED: What is your background with writing? Did you always know you wanted to be a published author?
G. S. CRAFT: I have, for as long as I can remember, written in journals. I have many journals and have often thought of writing a book, thinking of different potential genres (fiction, inspirational, children’s, romance, or even an autobiography).
What would you like potential readers to know about The Adventures of Louie?
Louie was our beloved Great Dane puppy that became so much more than a loved animal; he was our baby. The joy that he brought into our lives was nothing short of an adventure into the mind of a brilliant animal that reacted as if he were human. He loved us, he loved children, he loved everyone, and most of all, he loved life.
What can you tell readers about your book’s illustrations?
As a mother, and now a grandmother, I have read many children’s books. I must admit, reading a book over and over again became redundant at times. I wanted my book to be simple yet intriguing, and one that adults reading to a child, or a sibling reading to a younger sibling, or even a child reading themselves, would want to read over and over again. And my illustrator, Emily Land, has captured my vision to perfection. I wanted Louie to be portrayed as the Gentle Giant that he was.
H. Dale Hall Connie Clark-Thompson Patrice
Compelled is a chronicle of H. Dale Hall’s career, but focuses on the conservation issues he personally worked on. They include, but aren’t limited to, the Clean Water Act and wetlands, the Endangered Species Act (northern spotted owl, polar bear and others), his involvement working on the agreements for operation of the Missouri, Colorado and Sacramento-San Joaquin rivers, his rise to become Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service and, most importantly, the people he worked with on these issues. T
The poverty of our senses both physical and spiritual is in ourselves not our surroundings. No matter where you call home, the heavens by night or day are as beautiful over your home as another. The lifestyle that we become immersed in decay our senses and cheat us of many treasures beyond price. The author takes the reader into the love of nature and God’s Word and showing there are always new discoveries on every path. The reader will be immersed in their senses being delighted or sharpened.
Anna L. Sobol
Wilkerson April Hensley
My Favorite Season is Spring is a beautifully illustrated picture book which every child will love. Through rhythm and rhyme, take a fun and exciting journey with little Susie as she describes her favorite season. She finds so many fun things to do and she loves the outdoors, and you will too! Great engaging teaching tool for children.
A collection of gardening articles was originally published in a women’s monthly magazine Voice Magazine for Women . These articles feature helpful tips for growing indoors and outdoors in Zone 7 with a wide variety of topics including flowers, vegetable gardening, pest control, and harvesting.
Colorful detailed illustrations tell the story in visual concepts of this exciting fairy tale. Dragons are highlighted in grand detail. The main character, Candisi Avita loves being a Green Knight in a Kingdom. But when she must choose a different path, she finds a new adventure that changes her life forever. It is about finding your ‘calling.’
Order all of these book directly from JCP — for a discounted price and FREE shipping in April! Go to the “JCP Book Shop” at www.jancarolpublishing.com.
Justin Shepherd
When Victoria’s beloved red balloon floats away at the county fair, she never imagines it will lead to an out-of-this-world adventure! In an amazingly real dream, Victoria travels to a distant planet where she meets Nova, a friendly three-eyed alien who’s found her balloon. As Victoria and Nova become friends, they learn valuable lessons about sharing, accepting differences, and the joy of new experiences. Through games, laughter, and cultural exchange, they discover that the best gifts are often the ones we give away.
International Children’s Book Day,
Julia Hurley
As the author, I truly hope readers remember that a fathers’ love is more than one can imagine and that no matter how things turn out, a father will always be the beacon of light waiting for their daughters to come home. In this beautifully illustrated book, a very contrary fairy, a daughter, didn’t want to do the things she was instructed to do. This very contrary fairy sure has a lot to say about what she must do each day. So, with her bad attitude, she decides to run away. She got lost. She got scared. Can she get back home? Can she find her way? Her father is so sad. What will he do?
Wayne A. Major and Co-Author Ralphine Major
What animal can hold a child’s attention better than a mischievous, cunning penguin?! Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, is such a penguin. Despite her small size, she can be an example to children. Size is an obstacle only if you let it be. Penguins are some of the most entertaining animals on the planet! Come and join Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, and her family as they enjoy the amazing synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee!
When Luna begins to see the pink petals of the blossoming dogwood outside her classroom, spring fever quickly turns to thoughts of summer vacation and her family’s annual trip to visit relatives in the Midwest. They soon pack their car with everything they need, including Luna’s pet hedgehog, Thistle, dreaming of watching the flickering fireflies dancing in the night.
Kathleen M. Jacobs
When Independence Begins to Wain
By Cindy K. Sproles
Aging is hard, and it’s more than creaky bones and forgetfulness. So many changes happen to our bodies as we grow older. Things that generally run well suddenly become the things that take us down.
Seniors face the harsh reality of losing their independence—their ability to do for themselves. Our parents come from an era where self-independence was vital. Though those folks in their eighties and nineties are quickly fading, the fact remains that independence and self-sufficiency are still important to them.
As our seniors grow older, their attitudes shift along with their fading memories. It’s difficult for many to ignore or not argue with their loved ones when we know their information is skewed. We’re inclined to correct the details of a story when told incorrectly. Still, as we age, details do become mixed. Learning to let it go is a simple solution that allows dignity and a sense of self-awareness to remain.
The truth is, the finer details are unimportant. What should rise to the top is the joy our seniors find in remembering, reliving, and retelling the events as best they can. The retelling, whether right or wrong, allows our loved ones to hang on to that sense of self-awareness they already realize is slipping. When your aging parent gets the details wrong, go with the flow. Allow them to enjoy those moments as they remember them. On a personal note, at nearly 99, my mother is still a master quilter. She recently told me she’d found a new stitch. I smiled as she described the stitch and showed me how to do it in her work. It was a stitch she’d taught me years ago, but for her, it was new, and there was such joy and excitement in her thinking
she’d discovered a new stitch. Why would I correct that and ruin her joy? It wasn’t something that mattered in the greater scheme of things, but it was an accomplishment for her in the moment. Being right is not always what is best.
Losing your independence is devasting, and learning compassion for the loss is to our advantage. Sometimes, our plights are more complex, especially when seniors grow stubborn about issues such as accepting help or moving into a facility. There are those times when tough love has to reign for their health and well-being, but for those little things—let it go. It doesn’t matter that your cousin Sue’s hair was red, not jet black, or that your parents met during or after the war. What matters is their joy in remembering. It’s a lot to take in when one realizes there is more life behind them than in front of them. Walk your elderly parents through these changes holding hands rather than fighting unnecessary battles.
Enjoy the remaining time you share. The stories can be corrected after the fact, but lost time cannot be recovered. It’s valuable for your aging parents and you. Make the best of what life offers with them before you no longer have them to enjoy.
{Cindy K. Sproles is a novelist, speaker, and conference teacher. She is the cofounder of ChristianDevotions.us and the managing editor for Straight Street Books and SonRise Devotionals, imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com.
Self-Sabotage Doesn’t Exist—Here’s Why
By Vishad Doshi
What if self-sabotage isn’t real? What if what we call self-sabotage is actually self-protection? Let’s break it down.
Imagine you want to get in shape. A trainer tells you to wake up at 5 a.m., have your running kit ready, and hit the pavement daily. You do it for a while—then stop. When you don’t reach your goal, you blame self-sabotage.
The term implies you intentionally stopped yourself from succeeding. But what’s actually happening is a clash between your conscious and subconscious. Consciously, you say, “I want to be fit.” Your subconscious, which has been running the show your whole life, asks, “Why?” Because—even if you don’t realize it—your current state meets your core human needs:
• Certainty & Control: You know what to expect when you don’t exercise—more time to relax, watch TV, and avoid discomfort.
• Uncertainty & Variety: There are countless ways to avoid working out, keeping life interesting.
• Significance: Friends and family might reassure you, “You look fine as you are.”
• Love & Connection: You bond with others who also avoid exercise, reinforcing belonging.
Your subconscious resists change because it’s designed to keep you alive, not to make you happy. It follows the path of least resistance and prioritizes familiarity over transformation. This applies to relationships too. Take someone who repeatedly enters dysfunctional relationships. From the outside, it seems they’re not getting what they need. But actually, they are:
• Certainty: They know these relationships will be miserable.
• Uncertainty: There’s always an unexpected crisis, keeping things unpredictable.
• Significance & Love: When things go wrong, they receive validation and sympathy from friends.
So, it’s not that they don’t get what they need—it’s that they do. Their subconscious keeps them in familiar territory because it sees change as a threat.
This is why many people stay in unfulfilling jobs, toxic relationships, or unhealthy habits. The certainty of the known outweighs the uncertainty of potential improvement. Even when people say they want change, their actions—or lack thereof—reveal the truth. Do they really want it? Or do they just think they should?
If you say you want to change but keep making excuses, sit down and ask yourself: Do I truly want this? Be honest. If you don’t, that’s okay. Drop the guilt and own your choices. But if you do, your subconscious needs clarity. It won’t just accept “I want to be happy.” It needs specifics. The clearer your vision, the more it will work with you instead of against you.
So, next time you claim to want change, ask yourself: Do you mean it? As Kid Kapichi’s song “Self Saboteur” puts it, “If you mean it, then make me believe it.”
Want to go deeper? Visit innerpeacewalker.com, or visit www.join-ahs.org/vishad-doshi.
Signs and Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
The National Institutes of Health says Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects people of all ages, races, and genders. Certain factors can increase the risk of developing PD, including being over the age of 60, being male, having a family history of the disease, and exposure to certain toxins like pesticides and herbicides.
Symptoms of PD start slowly and can worsen over time. The Mayo Clinic says the first symptom of the disease may be a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand or sometimes the jaw or foot. While there is no cure for PD, early intervention therapies may slow its progression, making diagnosis at the earliest of symptoms advantageous. The following are some of the common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, courtesy of the Parkinson’s Foundation and the Mayo Clinic.
• A slight shaking (tremor) in a finger, thumb, hand, or chin while at rest.
• Small handwriting, also known as micrographia, may be a sign of PD. This is when letter sizes are smaller and the words are crowded together.
• Slowed movement, also called bradykinesia, can be a symptom. People with bradykinesia may find it hard to get out of a chair, shower or get dressed. Bradykinesia also may make it more difficult to blink and a person may have less expression in his or her face.
• Although a loss of sense of smell can be linked to a respiratory condition like the common cold or
even COVID-19, no longer smelling certain foods also might be a symptom of PD.
• Loss of automatic movements, such as smiling or swinging arms while walking, can occur.
• Those with PD often have diminished posture that becomes stooped, causing balance problems and falls.
• Voice changes, such as a breathy, soft or hoarse voice, could be an indicator of PD, as can slurring of words.
• Facial masking, which involves a serious or angry looking face, is present in some people with PD.
Additional potential symptoms of PD can include vivid dreams that cause acting out, frequent need to urinate, constipation, feeling very tired, and problems with thinking and memory.
A person should see a health care professional if any of these symptoms seem familiar. A doctor can help diagnose the condition and rule out other potential causes.
How to Keep Animals Safe Outdoors
Domestic companion animals can benefit from time in the great outdoors. It provides them with new sights and sounds, opportunities to explore, and new ways to exercise. Their owners just need to take precautions to make outdoor ventures safe for domesticated animals.
Make the yard pet-friendly
Those who have the benefit of a yard will want to fence it in. Fences stop pets from running away, and they can limit the probability that predators will get inside the yard. The yard should routinely be inspected for dangers, including poisonous plants (poison ivy, mushrooms) that pets may ingest, as well as other hazards.
Watch the weather
Pets will need ways to cool off or warm up when spending time outdoors. Extreme heat or cold could be dangerous, so avoid having pets spend prolonged periods of time outside if the weather is especially harsh.
Install a pet door
A pet door can provide convenient access to the outdoors when pets would like to get outside. Doors can be purchased with radio-signal locks that will disengage when a pet wearing an electric collar tries to go through; otherwise, the door stays closed for security reasons.
Prevent parasites
Work with your veterinarian to get a prescription for parasite preventatives. This includes flea and tick medication and worm medication. Pets may get heartworms from the bites of mosquitoes. Therefore, limit the number of mosquitoes on your property by draining standing water and potentially using repellents if mosquitoes are a nuisance.
Check in frequently
Pets should not be left entirely to their own devices outdoors. Fences may keep some predators out, but those that can fly or climb (or burrow) can make it inside. Keep tabs on pets while they are outside. Do not keep a dog tied up for a while, as the animal may get tangled and choke.
Exercise caution in stores
Certain retailers have relaxed their policies about letting pets inside, and pets should only be taken in such locations. By and large, only certified service animals are legally allowed to be in most retail stores. Bringing an “emotional support animal” or another pet in the store can compromise the ability of trained animals to properly provide care because they may become distracted by other pets. Non-service animals also may become injured by shopping carts or get under feet of shoppers if they are not properly leash-trained.
Pet owners can safeguard domesticated animals and pets in various ways when spending time outdoors.
FAQ About Taxes as the Filing Deadline Nears
Asthe deadline to file tax returns draws closer, taxpayers hoping to make the process as smooth as possible can consider these frequently asked questions and answers, courtesy of the Internal Revenue Service.
When is deadline day?
Though taxpayers periodically get an extra day or two to file their returns when April 15 coincides with a holiday or lands on a weekend, there’s no such reprieve in 2025. This year all taxpayers who are not requesting an extension must file their income tax returns by April 15, 2025.
What if my address has changed?
The IRS urges all taxpayers to use their new address when filing their returns. Additional ways taxpayers can update their address with the IRS is through the filing of Form 8822, Change of Address or Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party-Business.
Is there an age limit on claiming my child as a dependent?
A child must meet either the qualifying child test or the qualifying relative test in order to be claimed as a dependent. To meet the qualifying child test, your child must be younger than you or your spouse if filing jointly and either younger than 19-years-old or be a “student” younger than 24-years-old as of the end of the calendar year.
There is no age limit to claim a child as a dependent if a child is “permanently and totally disabled” or meets the qualifying relative test.
In addition to meeting the qualifying child or qualifying relative test, you can claim that person as a dependent only if these three tests are met:
1. Dependent taxpayer test
2. Citizen or resident test, and
3. Joint return test
What should I do if my W-2 is incorrect?
Sheila Wandell CLU® ChFC®
Employers must provide employees with a W-2 by January 31. If the W-2 is incorrect and has not been fixed by the end of February, taxpayers can contact the IRS and request to initiate a Form W-2 complaint. When such a request is initiated, the IRS sends a letter to the employer and requests that they furnish a corrected W-2 within 10 days. The IRS also sends a letter to the taxpayer with instructions and Form 4852, which can be used to file a return if a corrected W-2 is not provided before the filing deadline.
How can I file for an extension?
There are three ways to request an automatic extension of time to file an income tax return.
1. You can pay all or part of your estimated income tax due and indicate that the payment is for an extension using your bank account; a digital wallet such as Click to Pay, PayPal, and Venmo; cash; or a credit or debit card.
2. You can file Form 4868 electronically by accessing IRS e-file using your tax software or by using a tax professional who uses e-file.
3. You can file a paper Form 4868 and enclose payment of your estimate of tax due (optional).
Tax day arrives on April 15. Taxpayers who have lingering questions about their returns are urged to contact the IRS via irs.gov or work with a certified tax professional.
It’s A Classic!
Short and sweet film reviews of old, classic movies perfect for a girls’ night in!
By Allison Chudina
whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz, where they must follow the Yellow Brick Road to get to the Emerald City and meet the Wizard, who will grant Dorothy her wish of returning home. Along her journey, she meets a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion, who help her against the Wicked Witch of the West, who seeks to thwart their plans. This movie is an absolute classic that both children and adults have been drawn to for decades, and for good reason. The gorgeous technicolor and catchy musical numbers make it infinitely rewatchable.
Happy April! This is the first month of the year we should start seeing the flowers bloom and the weather grow consistently warmer. And what better film to watch to embrace the vibrant and bright colors of spring than The Wizard of Oz (1939)? Directed by Victor Fleming and starring the incomparable Judy Garland as young Dorothy Gale, the movie opens with a tornado ripping through Kansas. Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are thus
Hop on These Tips for a Great Easter Egg Hunt
Egg hunts are a traditional component of many people’s Easter celebrations. Children often delight in searching for eggs around the house or in the backyard. Egg hunts are so popular that they have become a component of many town-sponsored festivities. There are many ways to make Easter egg hunts more enjoyable and productive for participants of all ages. Try these “eggcellent” ideas.
• Designate a clear hunting area. Young children can grow frustrated searching for eggs in large areas. Set parameters for the search area that are manageable depending on the ages of the children participating. If you’ll be in a large yard or field, tape off the search area perimeter.
• Vary the prizes. Candy, candy, and more candy seems to be the name of the game on Easter. But too many sweets can lead to stomach aches for young Easter celebrants. Instead, mix and match the prizes contained in the eggs. Candy can be in some, money in others, and perhaps small toys in a few eggs. Another clever idea is to mix the egg hunt with charades. Put charade prompts in some eggs so that kids have to act out what they read inside for added fun.
• Special privilege egg. Hide one egg that gives the finder the opportunity for a special honor. It may include
Wine Pairing:
Pair this movie with a chilled strawberry Moscato for its pop of color and fruity “spring” taste.
JCP Book Pairing:
If you love fantasy stories about unlikely friends coming together to embark on a journey filled with danger and adventure, look no further than The Forgotten by Kristen Johnson.
getting the first slice of the holiday ham or being able to choose a movie that the entire family watches together after dinner.
• Label eggs for equity. When there are children across a wide range of ages, label the eggs with the children’s names or utilize a color-coded system to ensure that everyone has an equal shot at finding eggs.
• Keep a master list. It can be hard to remember where each egg is hidden, so keep a running list of where they are or take photos with a phone of the hiding spots. This way you’re not left to discover a chocolate-filled egg teeming with ants come summertime.
• Make custom baskets. Children will need something to carry their eggs. Prior to the egg hunt, let them decorate bags or baskets with Easter trinkets for custom creations.
Pasta with Peas
6 Servings
4 oz. pancetta, chopped
1 lb. mini penne pasta
1 1/2 cups frozen green peas
2 large shallots, chopped (about 3/4 c.)
3/4 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper, plus more to serve
1/2 cup white wine
1 (8-oz.) container mascarpone cheese, room temperature
1 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup torn basil or mint
1. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until the fat has rendered, and the pancetta is golden and crispy, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of rendered fat.
2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the peas. Reserving at least 1 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta and peas.
3. In the same large sauté pan over medium heat, add the shallots, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shallots are soft and golden, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the wine and simmer, scraping up any pancetta bits, until the wine is reduced by half. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the mascarpone cheese. Add ¼ cup of pasta water to loosen up the sauce. Whisk in the parmesan. Fold the peas and pasta into the sauce, adding more pasta water, as necessary, to form a silky sauce, up to ¾ cup. Add the pancetta and lemon juice.
4. Serve the pasta hot with torn basil or mint, extra parmesan, and pepper, if you like.
1 whole fully cooked bone-in ham (15 to 18 pounds)
Whole cloves
3 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup spicy brown mustard
1 can Dr Pepper or Coke
3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
Preheat the oven to 325°F.
1. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/8-inch deep. Place cloves in the middle of each diamond. Place the ham in a large roasting pan with a rack, tent it with foil, and bake for 2 to 2 1/2 hours— or longer, depending on the package directions. (Some hams may require 3 to 3 1/2 hours at a lower temperature; just check the package.)
2. In a small saucepan, heat the brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and soda until bubbly. Cook until reduced and a bit thicker, about 15 minutes.
3. After about 2 hours of baking time, remove the foil and brush the glaze on the ham in 20 minutes intervals (put the ham back in the oven, uncovered, in between) until it’s nice and glossy. Remove from the oven and allow to rest 15 to 20 minutes before carving.
2. To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the peanut butter and butter, and beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, gradually stir in the powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, vanilla, and salt. Beat until well combined, about 1 minute.
3. Divide the peanut butter mixture into 1 ½ tablespoon balls. Flatten them into an egg shape, measuring about 2 inches long, 1 inch wide, and about ¾ inch thick. Place them on the prepared baking sheets and chill in the refrigerator or freezer while melting the chocolate.
4. Fill the bottom of a medium saucepan with about 1 inch of water, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Place the chocolate in a dry, heatproof bowl that is slightly larger than the saucepan. The bowl should sit on top of the pan without its bottom touching the water.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Place the bowl of chocolate over the saucepan of water. Heat the chocolate, stirring occasionally with a dry rubber spatula, until the chocolate is mostly smooth and melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the bowl from the saucepan and continue stirring until the residual heat melts the remaining chocolate and the mixture is smooth (return the bowl to the saucepan, if needed).
6. Using 2 forks, carefully dip the chilled peanut butter eggs into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the dipped egg back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Spoon any remaining chocolate into a small zip-top bag. Cut off a very small corner of the bag and drizzle the eggs with chocolate, if you like. Or sprinkle the eggs with colorful sprinkles. Allow the chocolate to set completely before enjoying them.
The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.
• Targeted Audience: Reach thousands of dedicated listeners
• Engagement Opportunities: Your brand will be featured in our episodes through tailored ads, ensuring a personal connection with our audience
• Exclusive Promotion: Get your products or services highlighted in our newsletters and on social media, maximizing your reach.
• Engaging ad spots during our episodes
• Custom promotional packages to fit your brand's needs (personal interview opportunities)
• Collaborations on exclusive events and giveaways
Call or text for more information 423.302.0108 or email communications@jancarolpublishing.com
Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
BOOK PUBLISHED!
Jan-Carol Publishing, known as JCP, is recognized as the largest book publisher in the region with over 400 titles of books and publishing the monthly magazine, Voice Magazine for Women, for over 20 years. We are locally owned and operated.
• How do you get your book published?
• How do you submit your manuscript?
• What steps are needed for editing?
• How do I get an ISBN?
• Will your book be on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, etc?
Let us assist you in navigating through the book publishing process! 423.926.9983 submissions@jancarolpublishing.com www.jancarolpublishing.com
April
April 1 Open Mic 9–12
April 2 Karaoke 10–1
April 3 Karaoke 10–1
April 4 Karaoke 10–2 • DJ Ghost 10–2
April 5 Karaoke 10–2 • DJ Ghost 10–2
April 8 Open Mic 9–12
April 9 Karaoke 10–1
April 10 Karaoke 10–1
April 15 Open Mic 9–12
April 16 Karaoke 10–1
April 11 Southbound Band 10–1 • Karaoke 10–2 • DJ Ghost 10-2
April 12 Napalm Blonde 10–1 • Karaoke 10–2 • DJ Ghost 10–2
April 17 Karaoke 10-1
April 22 Open Mic 9–12
April 23 Karaoke 10–1
April 24 Karaoke 10–1
April 28 Open Mic 9–12
April 29 Karaoke 10–1
April 30 Karaoke 10–1
April 26 Karaoke 10–2 • DJ Ghost 10–2
April 18 Vaden Landers Band 10–1 • DJ Ghost 10–2
April 19 Civil Strife 10–1 • Karaoke 10–2 • DJ Ghost 10–2
April 25 Gman Blues and Dr Ron 10–1 • Karaoke 10–2 /DJ Ghost 10–2
