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Resolutions Inspired by Trending Health Topics How to Be More Organized at Home and Work Zoom In on Your Zen Zone Explore these Cold, Hard Facts About Wintertime

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January 2022 | Volume 19 | Issue 1

Voice Speaks

VoiceMale

Wedding Dress Fitting Guide

Facts About Wintertime

Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief 4

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5

January Hot Hunk Hunt!

The December “Hot Hunk” was Bill Pullman in the Symphony of the Mountains ad on page 14.

Lucas Bravo 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!

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: July Hot Hunk Hunt!

Email:

The April “Hot Hunk” was Robert Downey Jr. on page 31.

HOT HUNK LOCATION: Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

Congratulations to: Janice Hess Elizabethton, TN as the winner in the December Hot Hunk Hunt!

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is January 20, 2022.

PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD As the selected winner, you must contact Voice Magazine for Women at 423-926-9983 within 90 days to claim and receive your prize. After 90 days, winning becomes null and void and the prize cannot be claimed.

Resolutions Inspired by Trending Health Topics 6

Tips to Organize your Cluttered Kitchen 7

How to be More Organized at Work 7

Zoom In on Your Zen Zone Pam Blair 8

Seed Bombs April Hensley 9

My Christmas Tree is Still Up Deana Landers 10

Ken Heath 12

Iberia Parish - Louisiana Nancy Binder 16

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 18

Oatmeal Month 22

Age-Based Health Screening Guidelines 23

Beginning Anew Cindy Sproles 26

Create Positive Outcomes for Kids During and After Divorce 28

Cornelia Laemmli Orth, Music Director

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VOICE Speaks

FREE Celebrating our 17th anniversary!

We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!

W

elcome to the New Year! It sure feels like a repeat of last year with Covid challenges and pandemic surprises. But aren’t we are more prepared and more hopeful that this will pass? I think that we are all more aware of the consequences of viruses. Healthy procedures and protocols have been put in place, safety precautions established, and this new normal will continue as our normal. So, the choice remains—to wear or not to wear a mask! Personally, I choose to wear a mask. It works for me. So, I put on my mask that has been tossed throughout my hand bag, and dropped on the floor, and has touched more surfaces than I care to know about. But somehow I feel that I am supporting healthy habits, and hopefully I am.

As businesses have reopened and are clinging to the hope of a better tomorrow, small businesses are still struggling with full operating schedules. In this new year, it’s important that we spend our dollars locally to help them stay in business and provide jobs. Be cautious and conscious, and get outdoors and shop locally.

As the holiday season ends, JCP did see books an increase in books sales during this season in comparison to last year. Our growth remained on target with adding new authors to our JCP family. We hope to continue add authors to our JCP network, but in 2022 JCP will be highlighting some of our older titles and books as well! JCP will be making changes in this new year, as we do every year, but we will embrace those changes and challenges in building growth. We will need your continued support!

We are reaching out to other businesses to help us and them by scheduling book signings, which can increase foot traffic, and it’s a perfect way to rebuild a loyal customer network. JCP offers different genres written by many talented authors from the region and around the world. If you are interested in hosting a book signing and receiving free advertising, please call 423-926-9983 for details.

Voice Magazine for Women continues with our women in business mission. Join our cause and our efforts in showing support to local and women owned businesses. The businesses and advertisers showcased in Voice Magazine for Women need your local spending dollars. We appreciate you showing your support to the magazine by purchasing the products and services from the businesses we highlight!

As always, thank you for purchasing JCP books! Each month one of our authors is showcased on Daytime Tri-Cities on WJHL Channel 11. JCP continues to grow in our selection of books. Check out JCP’s website!

To all of you—have a safe and healthy January!

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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 April Hensley Nancy Binder

Cindy Sproles Ken Heath

Pam Blair Deana Landers

Nancy Williams - TLC Publisher/Associate Publisher nancywilliams@thelauruscompany.com Savannah Bailey - Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com Chanie Garner - Project Editor

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Thought of the month: “We will open the book; its pages are blank. We are going to put words on then ourselves. This book is called Opportunity and first chapter is New Year’s Day.” Edith Lovejoy Pierce, 1904–1983, twentieth-century poet and pacifist

GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com

Verse of the month: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NKJV)

SALES Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983

Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief

DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 19, Issue 1)

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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.

Wedding Dress Fitting Guide B

ecause fashion preferences were once ornate and dependent on precise fits, ready-to-wear clothing really did not become widely available until the early 20th century. Such attire is now available in just about any retail store.

Because ready-to-wear clothing is so readily available, the average person may be unfamiliar with custom-made or tailored items. In fact, a couples’ wedding may be the only instance in their lives when they require the services of a seamstress or tailor.

Fittings are a part of wedding planning, and here’s how brides-to-be can navigate the process of finding and being fitted for a dress.

• Try on sample gowns. The first step is to make your rounds to various gown shops and try on the samples they have available. Most sample sizes will not be the size you wear every day, so expect them to be ill-fitting. Do not be discouraged. Once a gown is chosen, the dress shop will take your measurements and order the gown according to the manufacturer’s sizing guide. Again, this can be shocking, since the size will likely be larger than what you wear in street clothes. Some shops will also order a little larger to allow for adequate tailoring.

• Schedule the first fitting. The first fitting should be anywhere from eight to 12 weeks before the wedding date, according to experts at WeddingWire, an online wedding information provider. This is the time it takes to complete most standard alterations. Complex customizations can take even longer. Brides should also budget a minimum of $500 for alterations, which may or may not be included in the price of the dress.

• Bring shoes and undergarments.

Remember to bring along the exact shoes and undergarments you will wear with your gown. A change in shoes or bra/corset can result in the alterations fitting poorly the next time. Bring these items along to all subsequent fittings.

• Speak up. Martha Stewart Weddings suggests speaking up

at fittings if anything is uncomfortable or needs tweaking. Seamstresses are masters at their crafts, but only if they understand the desires of the bride.

• Check the details. The second fitting is designed to check that all issues from the first fitting have been addressed, the gown is comfortable and you can move freely. At the last fitting, ask the maid of honor to come along so that she understands how to bustle or help you handle complicated straps or closures.

Open communication with a seamstress and bridal shop can ensure brides-to-be get a dress that fits like a glove.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 5

Resolutions Inspired by Trending Health Topics

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mproving personal health is a popular New Year’s resolution. A 2020 Finder survey found that an estimated 188 million Americans planned to make resolutions to carry them into 2021. Similar numbers of people likely will put personal goals on the calendar this year. Those focused on health and wellness may consider these trending topics.

Collagen supplementation Collagen is a family of proteins that serves as the structural component of most connective tissues in the body.

Many people are interested in maintaining adequate levels of collagen, which is vital to giving skin a youthful appearance and helps to maintain healthy joints. According to Google Trends, online searches for collagen have increased steadily since 2014. Collagen has become a top-selling supplement to improve hair, skin and nails. Though human studies that prove collagen supplementation efficacy are lacking, some randomized controlled trials have found that collagen supplements improve skin elasticity and joint mobility and reduce joint pain. Collagen supplements are thought to be safe, but people should discuss supplementation with a doctor first.

Fermented foods More research is showing a connection between digestive tract (gut) health and immunity, and people concerned with boosting their immune systems are paying attention.

Research published in the journal Cell in 2014 indicated the immune system has evolved to maintain a symbiotic relationship with microbiota in the gut. Accordingly, when operating optimally, this immune system-microbiota alliance allows the induction of protective responses to pathogens.

Naturally fermented foods may help strengthen the gut microbiome by supplying it with healthy probiotics, according to Dr. David S. Ludwig, a professor of nutrition at the T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

6 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

CBD and hemp products Even though medical marijuana and recreational marijuana use is now legal in many parts of the country, CBD is widely being harnessed in its own right. Cannabidiol oil is a chemical found in marijuana and hemp plants. CBD doesn’t contain THC, the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a high, advises the Mayo Clinic.

CBD has been studied as a treatment for a wide range of conditions like Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety. The only CBD product currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is prescription Epidiolex for epilepsy.

Since hemp oil is high in essential fatty acids, it may produce anti-inflammatory effects and improve brain function. It is widely used in beauty products like skin creams as well. Always speak to a doctor before using CBD and related products.

Getting healthier is a common theme of New Year’s resolutions. Various health trends could affect what people resolve to do in the year ahead.

Tips to Organize your Cluttered Kitchen

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itchens serve as the heart of many homes. Thanks to the popularity of open floor plans, kitchens also tend to be highly visible from nearby spaces, such as family rooms and even main entryways. That makes getting organized in the kitchen a worthwhile goal.

The following are some tips to help homeowners organize their kitchens.

Start with the utensils Utensils come in all shapes and sizes. Take inventory of your utensils, discarding or donating items you don’t use. Next, designate drawers or countertop storage solutions for the utensils you use most often. Place them within easy reach, and take into account your dominant hand for placement.

Categorize your pantry Empty the pantry, paying attention to staples you regularly use. Then figure out a system for categorization that works for your household. Use uniformly shaped containers to store packaged foods so you’re not contending with oddly shaped boxes and bags.

T

How to be More Organized at Work

he dawn of a new year is a time when change is readily welcomed by millions of people across the globe. Many people see a new calendar year as a great time to turn over a new leaf, and New Year’s resolutions are often made with the intention of making positive changes. Committing to being more organized is a popular goal each January, and it’s one that can pay some surprising dividends if individuals can see it through to fruition. The following are some strategies to clear clutter in office environments.

• Communicate during your commute. Professionals who take mass transit or carpool to work can use their commutes to comb through their emails. Professionals can use their commutes to organize emails and respond

Use extra wall or ceiling space Large pots and pans can eat up cabinet space or clutter the inside of an oven for those who don’t have any other space. While your decorative enamel Dutch oven might fit nicely on a shelf or counter, cast-iron pans and skillets can be hung from durable hooks over an island or near the stove.

Organize under the sink It can be difficult to keep cleaning products tidy and within reach. Try installing a short tension rod inside the cabinet and use it to hang spray bottles, rubber gloves and cleaning cloths.

Use kitchen cabinet rollouts A shortage of storage space in cabinets can be remedied with rollouts. They provide additional capacity to cabinets and make it easier to find items, instead of having to dig at the back of dim cabinet recesses.

Tame your container collection It’s tempting to save all of those take-out containers or empty margarine tubs for leftovers. But if there’s an avalanche every time you open up a cabinet to reach for a container, you probably have too many. Invest in one type of storage container so you can nest the containers and lids for ultimate organization.

An organized kitchen is more attainable than it may seem.

Some simple strategies can help homeowners make these home hubs less cluttered and more calming.

to those that are most pressing. That should free up time to get more done during the workday.

• Turn off unnecessary notifications. Smartphone and device notifications provide an endless stream of distractions that can make it hard for professionals to organize their days and maintain their productivity.

During the workday, individuals can clear some mental clutter by turning most app notifications off.

• Keep a clean professional pantry. A disorganized kitchen cabinet can make it hard to find ingredients when preparing a meal at home, and that sense of disorganization can compromise efforts to complete projects at work. A system for naming and storing files can make it easy to access documents quickly throughout the day. Keep separate folders for each project as well as subfolders for each component of the project. Store these in an organized manner on your computer and archive files and folders after the project is completed.

Various strategies can help professionals clear out work-related clutter and increase productivity. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 7

The Benefits of Yoga

By Pam Blair

I

f someone told you there is a form of exercise that can improve your strength, flexibility, and balance, would you try it? There are many examples of the benefits of yoga, such as improved cardio and circulatory health, lower blood pressure, and cholesterol. The weight bearing nature of yoga exercise has consistently proven to benefit bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In fact, one study showed that doing just 12 minutes of yoga a day can reverse osteoporotic bone loss. 1 Yoga is excellent for your body and your mind, and it’s never too early or too late to begin. Stelly, my 5-year-old greatniece, watches a video and does very well. The world’s oldest yoga teacher, Tao Porchon-Lynch, spent 93 years practicing yoga. I began taking yoga classes years ago with the idea that I would try it for a while, and then I started seeing positive results and have continued to improve. My balance is way better than it used to be, and since falling is the number one cause of injuries, maintaining good balance is our best defense.

When Covid shut us down in 2020, my long-time yoga instructor, Kellie McClendon, started teaching classes on Zoom. I resisted at first, but eventually decided to try her Zoom yoga and am so glad I did. Her classes are live and she guides us throughout the class, explaining the movements and telling us when to inhale or exhale so we get the most benefit from the various positions. She also makes each class unique, focusing on the lower back, shoulders, hips, or overall stretching, all of which are of huge benefit to us. Another advantage of Zoom yoga is the opportunity to join a class from any location, like my niece Elle, who dials in from her home in Chicago.

One or two of Kellie’s cats often visit her on the yoga mat and their efforts to rub against her legs or climb on her back are hilarious, but she never misses a beat. As Kellie says, we’re not in a competition and it’s ok to wobble! She is not only a certified instructor in yoga, but also a certified head instructor of taekwondo and an instructor of jiujitsu and other fitness disciplines.

She explains how we can benefit from yoga: Yoga connects us to ourselves. Our mind/body connection helps us realize we’re off balance before it’s too late. We learn to listen to ourselves.

Yoga helps us learn to accept our limitations. Its movement is slow enough to expose every weakness whether it be balance, strength, or flexibility. It is also slow enough to challenge ourselves to be better in that moment; but the first step is to accept where you are.

Yoga isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. We typically don’t see huge gains in yoga. What we see are the tiny steps forward that result in big changes. Little steps can be transferred into every aspect of our lives. Look for the little successes.

Yoga prevents injury when doing other physical activity. The balance, core strength, and muscle lengthening in yoga help when we’re asking our bodies to do more.

With aging, our muscles and joints get tighter and less flexible.

Yoga offers a series of stretches for our legs, hips, shoulders, and back that improve muscle flexibility and joint range of movement.

Yoga helps the body recover faster and can improve performance ability.

You are invited to join Kellie’s yoga class on Zoom!

The Zoom Meeting ID number is 385 498 4068. Classes are taught by donation. Follow her on Facebook, a great way to connect and see the updates she posts: www.facebook.com/Catsonamatyoga.

Top Geriatr Rehabil. 2016 Apr; 32(2): 81–87. Twelve-Minute Daily Yoga Regimen Reverses Osteoporotic Bone Loss. Yi-Hsueh Lu, PhD, et.al.

Virtual Yoga Healing, Strengthening, Restoring, and Energizing Yoga from Mind Body Specialist Kellie Please Join us!

www.facebook.com/Catsonamatyoga www.youtube.com/channel/UC85H0N7W1Cqg9q1aFFQPRig Zoom Meeting ID number: 385 498 4068 8 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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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.

Seed Bombs

By April Hensley

W

hen everyone else is in the depths of winter and basically hibernating inside, gardeners’ minds are already on spring. This might be why we are so cheery.

You would think we would be in a slump with no green life surrounding us, but we are already starting seeds and baby plants that we tend and keep warm during the freezing temperatures. We don’t let the seasonal blues get us down.

Besides seed starting indoors, there are many other things gardeners can do in the winter in zone 7. On warm days, tackle those pesky weeds and wild onions that seem to shoot up overnight. Plant root vegetable seeds such as beets and greens like spinach directly into the garden. Seed onions and garlic can be planted now if the ground is not frozen, and then mulch heavily to protect against freezing.

A great project for cold winter days is making seed bombs.

Seed bombs are a mix of flower seeds that are formed together in a ball and thrown or placed in an area you want flowers to come up later. Perfect for the whole family to get involved, these are a little messy to make but give months of joy and beauty.

1. Get all your flower seeds out. These may be store bought packs, saved seeds from the garden, or seeds you have traded with other gardeners.

2. Check out the germination time on the seeds. Decide if you want spring, summer, or fall blooms or a mix of all three in your seed bombs.

3. Get your materials together. You will need compost and hobby clay. In our area you can use clay soil straight from your own yard that is dry and powdered.

4. Using a bowl, mix together half a cup of clay to every one cup of compost. Add in around a quarter cup of seeds.

5. Add water while mixing with your hands until it makes a sticky dough. Wear gloves for easy cleanup.

6. Roll the dough into tight one-inch balls. Place on a lined cookie sheet or in a cardboard box. Set in a sunny window or warm spot for a couple of days until they are completely dry.

7. Pick a sunny day to go outside and find spots for your seed bombs. No need to plant. Spring rains will dissolve the bombs and the compost will fertilize them while they sprout and plant roots in the soil.

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April Hensley works as an office manager and is an avid gardener, writer, and greenhouse hobbyist. April loves the outdoors and is passionate about animal welfare and the environment. She can be reached at aprils1105@embarqmail.com.

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By Deana Landers www.morningcoffeebeans.com

C

hristmas isn’t over until after January 6th, the day when many Christians celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany from December 25th until January 6th. These days are a collection of 12 feast days, beginning with Christmas day and ending after the wise men’s revelation.

The revelation is called Epiphany, or the unveiling or finding God in the flesh (the baby Jesus in the manger).

This time is when the Three Wise Men (sometimes called the Three Kings) visited and gave gifts to Jesus.

This day closes the Christmas festivities and is the day many people exchange gifts.

I have a friend in Georgia who leaves her Christmas tree up all year long. She turned her small office into a Christmas room with a tree decorated with beautiful lights and ornaments. The room is filled with books, Christmas art pieces, and music that she can walk into any time she wants to feel the magic of Christmas.

“It makes me feel good,” she told me. “And it reminds me that I can keep the spirit of love and giving in my heart all year long.”

If we read about the three Kings, we learn that they were from three different countries, India, Persia, and Babylon. They were magicians, referred to as the Biblical Magi, and astrologers who provided advice into the

10 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

mysteries of life. They were consuls to the kings, not kings themselves.

These men studied the stars and connected the dots to the ancient writings that would direct them to a king.

When the star appeared, they recognized it and followed it.

Their journey brought them to Herod the Great, King of Judea. But he was not the King they were looking for, so they continued in faith until they found the baby Jesus.

The gifts they brought to commemorate the King of the Jews were gold, as to a king; myrrh, as to one who was mortal; and incense, as to a God. The magi are a perfect example of knowing what you know, believing what you believe, and doing what you need to do.

I recently read a comment on social media that disturbed me; “Seriously, Walmart? So you can’t give us one more day to celebrate Jesus’ birthday?”

The day after Christmas, Walmart and other retailers put out a line of Valentine’s gifts. As I read and reread it, I thought to myself, “Walmart is a business, not a religious organization.”

A day later, we were having dinner at a restaurant.

A friend came up to our table and said he didn’t understand why people were still celebrating Christmas. “Why are people still playing Christmas music. After all, it’s over,” he said.

Remember the quote by Charles Dickens in the book, A Christmas Carol, “I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!”

We live when it seems we are being told what to think and how we should feel. So, maybe a simple New Year’s Resolution that we could keep would be “We will learn from our past, live in the present, and walk in faith toward the future.”

Another interesting quote I saw on social media that we might add to our New Year’s Resolution, too; “Let’s promote what we know instead of bashing what we hate.”

We can learn from the Magi by believing in God’s grand miracle made of flesh to atone for our sins.

And we can leave our Christmas tree up as long as we want to.

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Deana Landers, a retired nurse and health educator, is Christian speaker who strives to educate and encourage. She may be contacted at dlanders1511@ gmail.com or 276-780-7355.

Upgrade Bathroom Safety Features

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athrooms can be one of the most dangerous rooms in a house. In 2008, a thorough investigation of bathroom dangers conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that mishaps near the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink caused an estimated 234,094 nonfatal injuries in the United States among people aged 15 years and older.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable in the bathroom due to reduced mobility and flexibility, visual impairment, and other factors. However, some key modifications can make bathrooms much safer for aging populations.

• Raised toilet seat: Install an ADA-compliant raised toilet seat. Standard toilet seats are roughly 15 inches high, but elevated seats can raise the bowl an additional two to four inches.

• Grab bars: Seniors may use towel holders as grab bars, which don’t have stability and can dislodge from the wall. Install secured side grip bars by the toilet and inside the shower to make maneuvering easier.

• Water temperature: Seniors may be vulnerable to hot water temperatures. Lower the water temperature setting on the hot water heater.

StaySafe.org recommends 120 F. • Faucets: Change faucet handles to paddle-style handles rather than knobs. Knobs can be challenging to grip for those with arthritis in their hands. Also, handles that are easier for seniors to use can reduce the risk of the elderly losing their balance as they attempt to gain leverage to turn the water on and off.

• Nonslip mats: Nonslip mats or tape strips can be used in showers and tub bottoms, as well as outside of the shower to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Rugs should have rubberized, slip-resistant backing.

• Rounded corners: Choose counters and fixtures with rounded corners. Should a senior fall against something, the rounded corner may prevent serious injury.

• Shower benches and transfer seats: Benches and transfer seats make it easier getting in and out of the shower. Also, sitting while showering reduces the risk of becoming light-headed or losing balance.

• Walk-in tubs/showers: Minimizing the threshold to the shower or bathtub is an important safety feature. Some manufacturers make walk-in tubs with doors that secure and make watertight seals.

NEW YEAR...NEW YOU...

• Lighting: Eyesight weakens over time, so improve lighting with combinations of overhead lightI Can Help! ing and softer side lighting. Night lights or soft-glowing toilet lights can make it easier to get around the bathroom in the middle of the night.

These are just some improvements 508 Princeton Rd., Ste. 106 • Johnson City, TN that can create safer bathroom envi- RealtorRobinMiller@gmail.com www.premierhomestn.com • 423-647-9476 ronments for seniors.

NEW HOME?

Robin Miller

Real Estate Professional

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 11

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

So How’s 2022 Going for You So Far?

Y

ep, I know we’re just a sliver into the new year, but I’m hopeful. After two years of outright weirdness—from pandemic to politics—I’m ready for the new Roarin’ Twenties to finally kick into gear. But as hopeful as I am, I’m also thankful for the life lessons this sabbatical from society has given me.

I’ve learned that I’m much more comfortable staying close to home than I ever thought I’d be. As a young man full of

12 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

vinegar and wanderlust, I often planned my great escapes to parts unknown. Now, evenings with my angel and our pups bring me life’s greatest pleasure. A warm home, a full belly, a good book and I’m set. I’ve learned that the soirées of years past aren’t nearly as much fun as they used to be, but instead, a Saturday night by the fire pit with a handful of friends is most rewarding. Purging closets is much more appealing than shopping sprees. A classic movie on DVD meets my needs more than a trip to see the latest blockbuster at the movie theater. My vinyl collection takes me on musical journeys that rival the biggest concerts I’ve attended.

Part of it, I suppose, is in approaching my 60th birthday come August. Part of it is in feeling the creaks and groans of my aging frame. But most of it comes from realizing that there are fewer calendars in my future than in my past. Each night, I offer thanks for the blessings of another day, each morning, thanks for another opportunity to do my best to do some good. I’ve gained perspective, clarity, and purpose. Plus a bit of wisdom, as one of my mentors once called the trading of youth, and that makes me appreciate each day even more.

So bring on the new year. I’m ready.

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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.

Explore these Cold, Hard Facts About Wintertime

T

he winter solstice marks the first day of winter. For people residing in the Northern Hemisphere, Tuesday, December 21, 2021, heralds the official arrival of winter (the Southern Hemisphere’s winter solstice is on Sunday, June 20).

Though it’s common to think of the winter solstice as an event that spans an entire day, it actually occurs for just a • Russia remains the coldest country in the world moment—specifically when a hemisphere is tilted as far away during the winter. Canada and Mongolia are not too from the sun as it can be. far behind.

Winter is widely known as the coldest time of the year in • The largest snowflake ever recorded measured 15 most locales, but that’s not the only thing that makes the season inches wide. It was found in Fort Keogh, Montana. unique. Explore these other cold, hard facts about wintertime.

• A city in Sweden uses light therapy in bus stops to • The Earth actually is closest to the sun in December, help combat seasonal affective disorder during winter, even though the winter solstice is the shortest day of when 19 hours of darkness are common. the year. The amount of daylight hours has to do with • Unlike hurricanes and other summer storms, winter the tilt of the Earth on its axis rather than its proximstorms are not named by the National Weather ity to the sun.

Service.

• The Southern Hemisphere, due to having less land • Snowflakes are translucent, not white. mass and a more maritime climate, tends to have • No country in the Southern Hemisphere has hosted milder winters than the Northern Hemisphere. or applied to host the Winter Olympics.

• According to Smithsonian, ancient Romans used day• Most weather-related crashes in the U.S. happen light and darkness to determine the time. As a result, on wet pavement during rainfall rather than during an hour in ancient Rome lasted 45 minutes in the snow or sleet, according to the U.S. Department of winter and 75 minutes in the summer.

Transportation.

• Two islands, called Big Diomede and Little Diomede, Winter might be seen as a cold period marked by dark are located in the Bering Strait, which divides Alaska days. But there’s still a lot of interesting things going on from Russia. Big Diomede is owned by Russia, while between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

Little Diomede is owned by the United States. The 2.5 mile stretch between these two islands often freezes over in winter, technically making it possible to walk from the U.S. to Russia, according to Alaska Centers Public Land Information.

• Snow is common in many areas during the winter. The highest snowfall ever recorded in a oneyear period in the U.S. occurred at Mount Rainier, in Washington. Between February 19, 1971, and February 18, 1972, 31.1 Complete your home with decor from The Old Town Emporium in Jonesborough. meters (1,224 inches) of snow Located inside the Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659 fell. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 13

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Celebration

I

t has been another tough year full of extraordinary challenges and extraordinary successes. Thankfully, in 2022 residents of the Tri-Cities will have numerous opportunities to come together to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. January 17 marks the annual celebration in which virtual and in-person programs are scheduled to be held in Abingdon, Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport. Members of the Abingdon community lead

by APEC, Appalachian Peace Education Center, plan an in-person outdoor celebration and march on Saturday, January 15 at the Abingdon Farmers Market at 2pm. Many other organizations will hold speaking engagements, podcasts, and virtual programs open to the public.

As in past years, the programs will feature readings, music, and prayer in celebration of Dr. King’s vision of justice, equal opportunity, and the love of ones’ fellow human beings.

This year, Bristol and Abingdon will explore the same theme, “Even in these trying times, I still have a dream,” inspired by Dr. King’s prophetic speech given on

Aug. 28, 1963, as part of the March on Washington. D.C. In which he said: “So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

Today, even as we face difficulties we hold to the same truths.

Over the last five years, MLK celebrations have blossomed around the region and now there are more than a dozen events that encourage people to remember the struggles for justice and peace, and as Bernice King affirms below, to commit to lasting change: “My father’s legacy is about much more than service projects. If you plant a tree, also educate about environmental injustice + racial injustice. If you paint a mural at a school, also host a workshop on inequity in education. Plant a garden, but also commit to ending food deserts and eradicating the injustices that cause them. Service matters.

Systemic change alleviates WHY the service is needed.” - Dr. Bernice King The YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia will be participating in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service by honoring early childhood education teachers. The YWCA is encouraging other organizations to honor Dr. King by participating in the federal day of service in their community.

In addition to the January 17th programs, there are numerous activities planned around the Tri-Cities leading up to MLK Day. Details are posted in an interactive calendar on the YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia’s website: ywcatnva.org/mlk2022.

Interesting Facts about MLK Jr.

14 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

•

If he were alive today, Martin Luther King, Jr. would still be years away from his 100th birthday. King was assassinated in 1968, when he was not yet 40 years old.

•

King was an extraordinarily gifted student. At an age when many students were preparing to enter their sophomore or junior year of high school, King began his freshman year of college at Morehouse College.

•

King was ordained as a minister prior to graduating from Morehouse.

•

King survived a knife attack years before his assassination. King was stabbed in the chest with a letter opener during a book signing event in Harlem in 1958.

•

Conspiracy theories surround King’s assassination. King’s assassin, James Earl Ray, was found guilty and sentenced to 99 years in prison. Authorities, including the United States Department of Justice, concluded Ray, a career criminal, acted alone. However some, including surviving members of King’s family, believed his assassination was part of a conspiracy.

ITEMS TO INCLUDE IN A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT

P

revious natural disasters have shown everyone how unpredictable the fallout from storms and other weather events can be. For example, drone footage of areas ravaged by hurricanes or tornados often shows a few seemingly untouched homes in a sea of properties that were leveled or damaged beyond repair. Such footage shows how much damage natural disasters can do and underscores the importance of preparation to surviving potentially deadly storms. In recognition of that importance, the American Red Cross advises everyone to prepare a disaster supplies kit that they can utilize should they need to evacuate their homes. The Red Cross recommends including the following items in the kit and storing them in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or duffel bag.

• Water: Include one gallon of water per person per day and store it in sealed, unbreakable containers. Date each container and replace it every six months.

• Food: Maintain a supply of nonperishable packaged or canned food. Store a non-electric can opener with the food.

• Clothing: Include a change of clothing as well as rain gear and sturdy shoes.

• Sleeping essentials: Pack a blanket or sleeping bag for each member of the family.

• First aid kid and prescription medications: If necessary, individuals can speak with their phy-

sicians in advance of their region’s storm season to request their prescriptions are updated so they can more easily get their medicine should they run out while they are away from home.

• Eyeglasses: Pack an extra pair of eyeglasses should an existing pair be lost or broken while away from home.

• Battery-powered electronics: Pack a battery-powered radio and flashlight and plenty of extra batteries as well.

• Extra set of car keys • Medical lists: Include a list of family physicians for each individual in the supply kit. In addition, document the style and serial number of medical devices such as pacemakers.

Disaster supplies kits can help individuals and their families safely navigate the initial aftermath of potentially deadly storms.

Durable Foods to Stock for Emergencies H ere’s a look at which nonperishable foods to keep on hand for emergencies.

Protein sources Protein can provide sustained nutrition and energy, but many protein sources in raw forms require refrigeration to prevent spoilage. However, canned and freeze-dried meats, seafood and poultry have extended shelf life. Canned or freezedried chicken, tuna, salmon, and beans are durable protein sources. Vegetarians will find that navy beans are high in protein.

Fruits and vegetables Fruits and vegetables are necessary to ensure your body gets essential vitamins and minerals. Fresh items will spoil in a matter of days, so canned varieties are better for stocking up.

Canned vegetables and fruits come in many varieties. The healthiest canned fruit options are those packed in their own juices rather than heavy syrups.

Whole grains and other carbohydrates A balanced diet consists of a healthy mix of proteins, fruits and vegetables, and carbohydrates. Oats, rice, quinoa, barley, and whole-grain dried pastas can be used in emergency food kits. Packaged granola or trail mix bars also are good to have on hand.

FEMA and the American Red Cross advise keeping food in a dry, cool, dark spot. During a disaster, it is wise to eat at least one well-balanced meal every day. Remember to also stock bottled water with emergency foods supplies. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 15

Iberia Parish - Louisiana L

Article and Photographs

By Nancy Binder

ouisiana has so many wonderful places to visit. One of the more interesting and less crowded is Iberia Parish. Louisiana doesn’t have counties, it has parishes. Iberia Parish was established in 1868 during Reconstruction. It is part of the 22 parish Acadian region of the state. It was settled by the French who were expelled from the Acadia region of Canada (primarily New Brunswick and Nova Scotia) by the British in the 18th century for not signing an unconditional oath of allegiance to Britain.

Acadians are colloquially referred to as Cajuns. Iberia Parish is part of the Lafayette metropolitan area southeast of the city.

It has the largest sugar cane industry in Louisiana.

We visited several weeks before Mardi Gras. We started our drive to Iberia Parish from Houma. On our way out of town along Park Street, we saw many viewing stands on trailers lining the street as Mardi Gras parades were to start that week in Houma. The reviewing stands are painted in Mardi Gras colors; purple, green, and gold. In 1892 the Mardi Gras King of Rex declared the colors represented purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power. The stores are selling King Cakes and cupcakes frosted with those colors. Stores start selling King Cake on January 6, and the feast of the three kings bringing gifts for Baby Jesus continues through Shrove Tuesday.

Inside each King Cake is a small plastic infant. Whoever gets the slice of cake with the infant is said to have good fortune for the year and is tasked with bringing the King Cake to next year’s celebration.

We followed Highway 90 west, which goes past sugar cane fields and then is elevated to go over swampland. When we got to Berwick we took Hwy 82 as suggested in the National Geographic Scenic Highways and Byways book which we were following through Louisiana. We passed many cane fields and some heavy manufacturing plants. There were many sugar mills which weren’t operating at that time of the year. In Franklin, the streets have fancy lights in the center parkway which date from 1915. They are cast iron with intricate designs and the words “Do Not Hitch” as a reminder not to tie your horse up to them. They are painted white and are lovely.

In Jeanerette, we went to a museum in a pink house and a charming lady gave us a tour of their large collection of Mardi

Mardi Gras queen gowns

LeJeune bakery French bread

Author at Tabasco Visitor Center

continued on next page 16 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Drive through Jungle Garden Avery Island

Giant timber bamboo Avery Island

Gras queen gowns. They were so beautiful and produce the seeds from their patented peppers exquisitely made. We knew very little about and send them to their growers in Central sugar cane agriculture until we watched a and South America. When the peppers video on sugar cane growing, harvesting are harvested, they are picked by hand, and processing. The eyes on a piece of the color being compared to a stick cane are planted in the fall for harvest the painted the color of the perfect ripe next late summer. As we drove through pepper. The peppers are crushed and town we looked for the illuminated red the mash is stored in oak barrels that light on the sign of the LeJeune Bakery. had been used for aging whiskey from That was our clue to drive around the back to Jack Daniels. The pepper mash is aged for purchase a loaf of French bread. It was warm Camillia in Jungle Garden three years, then mixed with French white and tasty. We noticed that one of the ingrediwine, vinegar, and salt. The salt comes from ents is malt and wondered if that is what made it taste so good. the huge salt deposit that the island is sitting atop. We walked In New Iberia the hotel clerk recommended Duffy’s Diner through the plant, but the closest assembly line to the tour area for authentic regional food. I had two crab cakes covered with was shut down for maintenance. At the gift store we sampled crawfish etouffee served with potato salad that looked like the Tabasco and pretzels and also their raspberry chipotle mashed potatoes, but tasted like potato salad. It was very ice cream. It was sweet until after you swallowed it, and then good. We toured the Konriko Rice Mill established in 1912; there was a burn. They also had vanilla habanero ice cream, it is the oldest operating rice mill in America. It is on the which we did not try. Across the road from the gift shop is the National Register of Historic Places. The tour started with entrance to the Jungle Garden which is beautiful even with a film about rice growing. Arkansas has the top production most things not blooming. The old live oak trees had Spanish in rice, followed by California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Mis- moss hanging from them. Because it had rained, the resurrecsouri and Texas. Rice came to Louisiana from the Carolinas tion fern which grows on the tree bark and is usually dry and with the Acadian settlers. It was originally grown for home brown was “resurrected” into full green foliage and beautiful. consumption by tossing the seeds into the wetlands near the The camellias were also blooming in red, pink, and white. The bayous. Whatever grew was called “providence” rice by the garden also contains the largest grove of giant timber bamboo thankful settlers. Crawfish and rice are intersecting agribusi- outside of China. The pagoda has a 10th century wooden nesses. Crawfish were first harvested from the waters of the statue of Buddha inside. A refuge called Bird City has been Atchafalaya Basin and later a farmed commodity when rice built for waterfowl to nest. farmers turned their flooded rice fields into crawfish ponds.

Although Iberia Parish is small, it has plenty to offer Crawfish have become popular at local backyard boils and the visitor. most local diners serve some form of crawfish when in season Nancy Binder is a retired application software developer turned freelance writer combinwhich is from November to May. ing her love of travel with her desire to share her experiences. She is passionate about exploring the outdoors and has been “bitten by the African safari bug,” now her favorite No visit to Iberia Parish would be complete without travel destination. Contact her with comments or travel questions at nancybinder@ sbcglobal.net. a visit to Avery Island to tour the Tabasco plant. Here they

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 17

“every story needs a book”

NEW RELEASES

OUT NOW! Josie

ession after losing her her husband has been is already in shambles ts of her own.

ry.” —Wanda Sheppard

type of forgiveness of Christ.”

your favorite authors. el they are your family. ” —Deborah Corn

donna DeCaterina

ied to Kenny Bruce and inia. Their two grown h children of their own.

ruce.com

book/Instagram)

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KAREN G. BRUCE

e love. As God forgives

KAREN G. BRUCE

A STORY OF FORGIVEN ESS

ENE SS

Josie: A Story of Forgiveness

Those Devils in Baggy Pants

Written by Karen Bruce Josie is finally coming out of a deep depression after losing her mom to breast cancer only to find out her husband has been having an affair with her best friend.

Her life is already in shambles when she learns her mother had some secrets of her own.

Originally Written by Ross S. Carter Revised and Republished by David Ross Fraley Those Devils in Baggy Pants was originally published in 1951 by Ross S. Carter, a member of the 82nd Airborne Division during WWII. Carter, one of the three surviving members of his original platoon and Silver Star and Purple Heart awardee, sadly, was never able to see his book in print. Instead, the final chapters were pieced together by his brother, shortly after Carter’s passing, with the help of Carter’s meticulous notes. After its original publication in 1951, Those Devils in Baggy Pants sold one million copies, was a Reader’s Digest condensed book, and was translated into multiple languages. Now, years after being out of print, the hit best seller is being republished by a member of Carter’s own family—David Ross Fraley. In republishing his relative’s incredible tale it is Fraley’s hope to honor both

Josie

A STO RY OF FORG IV E NE SS

Heart of Hearing

Written by Meaghan Thomas Illustrated by Illustrated by Miriam and Sean Balsano Heart of Hearing is an animated and entertaining story for children to encourage them to wear their aids. It provides and highlights aspects of the world around us that would be missed if they chose not to wear them. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. created by the author, Meaghan Thomas.

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.

HEART OF HEARING

is an animated and entertaining story for children to encourage them to wear their aids. It provides and highlights aspects of the world around us that would be missed if they chose not to wear them. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. created by the author, Meaghan Thomas.

Meaghan Thomas is an award-winning broadcast meteorologist.

She proudly wears bi-lateral hearing aids and is a dedicated advocate for the hard of hearing, deaf and Deaf communities. Meaghan created the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. to raise funding for those who cannot afford hearing aids. To find out more information and how to donate, visit: www.theheartofhearing.org.

story and storyteller.

COPYRIGHT 2021 AUTHOR PHOTO BY CHELSEA ROCHELLE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Written by Illustrated by

The Mitchellgoshes

fferent a friendship

sibilities.

ut a visit with

ons are superb

Written by

Retta West Illustrated by

Grayson Campbell

o life.”

onkey

Meaghan Thomas

Misty, the Lonely Mermaid

Miriam and Sean Balsano

Misty has many sea-creature friends, but not one true mermaid friend. Follow her adventures as she learns how to make friends while staying true to herself.

Written and Illustrated by JeanAnn Taylor Misty has many sea-creature friends, but not one true mermaid friend. Follow her adventures as she learns how to make friends while staying true to herself. We are meant to have friends and as long as we believe in ourselves, the right friend will come along.

“As a fellow author of a mermaid book, I was excited to read this book and its important message! We were all meant to have friends and as long as we believe in ourselves, the right friend will come along.”

— Jocelyn M. Lacey, Author of Coral's First Sleepover

Written by Retta West Illustrated by Grayson Campbell Two little boys from different backgrounds meet and form a friendship while exploring new possibilities.

Written and Illustrated by COPYRIGHT 2021 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

“A whirlwind of action in this suspense packed thriller—Jeff Geiger spins a tale of heart-stopping excitement. The characters are driven by fierce determination and compassion with never a pause. The White Room entangles the reader as the pages fly. This is one you can’t put down.”

—Susan Noe Harmon, author of Under the Weeping Willow

THE WHITE ROOM

The White Room

JeanAnn Taylor

Written by Jeff Geiger Jr. J Jonah Bosworth was only nineteen years old when he discovered a room full of unbelievably dark secrets, a room most people didn’t make it out of alive. Four years later, Jonah tells the tale of the White Room, how he was forced to go in there, and how he managed to live to share the story. onah Bosworth was only nineteen years old when he discovered a room full of unbelievably dark secrets, a room most people didn’t make it out of alive. Four years later, Jonah tells the tale of the White Room, how he was forced to go in there, and how he managed to live to share the story.

“The White Room had me on the edge of my seat. I was drawn into the world of Jonah Bosworth and held there, fearing for his life and the safety of the people

around him. Jeff Geiger Jr. paints a story that is far more likely than we’d like to admit. It invades your mind and stays there long after you read the final page.”

—Courtnee Turner Hoyle, author of the Pale Woods Mystery Series

JEFF GEIGER JR. is the author of “Helen’s Hill,”

featured in the anthology These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Book 2. He resides in Zephyrhills, Florida, with his son.

COPYRIGHT 2021 COVER PHOTOGRAPH © XY / ADOBE STOCK COVER DESIGN BY TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Achaiah knew the dangers of falling to earth for the love of his human, Nev. When Nev falls for her guardian angel, Achaiah, she is unaware of the danger that their love puts her in. That’s why fallen angels have one rule: Never fall in love with a human.

“The Order of the Fallen slowly burns as Nev and Achiah connect and disconnect until the surprising climax. Jacqueline Marinaro has developed a new spin on the angel-human relationship that had me wondering about my own guardian angel.”

— Courtnee Turner Hoyle, author of the Pale Woods Mystery Series

“Warmth and sweetness abound in this YA romance. Nevaeh is a lonely girl, and

Langston

Achaiah is the angel created just for her, but when Achaiah decides watching her from afar just won’t do anymore, the young couple walks a dangerous line for their love. This low-angst, lighthearted read is just perfect for anyone needing a little danger and a whole lot of innocent love in their days.”

— M. N. Henschen, author of To Survive Divinity

lives in Florida with her husband and son where she enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family.

COPYRIGHT 2021 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

18 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Jacqueline Marinaro

Written by Michael Grindstaff Illustrated by Tracy Grindstaff Jacqueline Marinaro Neil is a boy with an imaginary friend, Langston. As Neil grows older, he loses contact with his friend. Langston has not been forgotten, but will they ever find one another again?

The Order of the Fallen

JeffGeigerJr jeffgeigerjr

The Order of the

FALLEN

Jacqueline Marinaro

The Order of the Fallen

Written by Jacqueline Marinaro Achaiah knew the dangers of falling to earth for the love of his human, Nev. When Nev falls for her guardian angel, Achaiah, she is unaware of the danger that their love puts her in. That’s why fallen angels have one rule: Never fall in love with a human.

“every story needs a book”

AUTHORS on the ROAD Linda Hudson Hoagland

Snooping Can Be Regrettable; Snooping Can Be Scary; Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable; Snooping Can Be Helpful – Sometimes; Onward & Upward; Missing Sammy; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly; Snooping Can Be Devious; Snooping Can Be Contagious; Snooping Can Be Dangerous; The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; Wild Daisies; Scattered Flowers and These Haunted Hills, These Haunted Hills Book 2, These Haunted Hills Book 3 (Inclement weather may cause a cancellation and the event will be rescheduled at a later date.)

Friday, January 7, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Abingdon, VA Saturday, January 8, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Chilhowie, VA

Jan-Carol Publishing Books

Monday, January 10, 10 am VHF Writers Day Committee Meeting Abingdon Library, Abingdon, VA

www.Jancarolpublishing.com www.Amazon.com www.Barnesandnoble.com

Tuesday, January 11, 12 pm to 1 pm AAG Board Meeting Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator Abingdon, VA Friday, January 14, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Lebanon, VA

WES SCHUM

Saturday, January 15, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Galax, VA

Friday, January 21, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Bonham Road, Bristol, VA

Amateur Radio’s Unsung Hero

BY: DOMINIC TUSA, K5EF On Thanksgiving Day 1961, Wes Schum was unstoppable.

His Central Electronics Company had produced the world’s most advanced single-sideband transmitter, setting the amateur radio world ablaze. Three months later, it was all over.

60 years later, learn why and what could have been.

Saturday, January 22, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Big Stone Gap, VA Friday, January 28, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Bluefield, VA

Available for Purchase at Jancarolpublishing.com Amazon – Barnes and Noble – and Select Retailers

Saturday, January 29, 10 am – 4 pm Book Signing Food City, Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA

Purchase Jan-Carol Publishing Books at the Harvest Table! “every story needs a book”

13180 Meadowview Square • Meadowview, VA • (276) 944-5140 voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 19

Books You May Have Missed!

Yesterday’s Books and Tomorrow’s Reading

The Fables of Leonardo Da Vinci

Tom Dooley: The Story Behind the Ballad

Under the Weeping Willow Tree

By Ed Tasca

By Karen Wheeling Reynolds

By Susan Noe Harmon

A collection of stories based on the ideas and drafts annotated in Leonardo Da Vinci’s notebooks that delves into the delightful ironies of where his thoughts take him.

This collection of stories takes the readers into Da Vinci’s thoughts.

After the Civil War Tom Dooley comes home to find the love of his life, Anne Foster, married to an older man. Anne, who had promised Tom she would wait for him, married for money while Tom was away. When he returns, she makes it clear that she wants to resume their relationship. A hurt and angry Tom begins a romance with sweet Laura Foster, Anne’s first cousin. What happens next turns a lover’s triangle into the nation’s first highly publicized crimes of passion.

Step into the lives of one Kentucky family who will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Belle, Pearl, and Sara, three generations of Appalachian women will teach you about life in a 1950’s family and how it touched the future. Under the Weeping Willow is a story about the closeness of family and how they enjoy the good times and pull together through the bad. Come into their world and live and learn from it along with them. You will feel like you’ve found a home and a family of Kentucky kin.

Jan-Carol Publishing Books

For Better or Worse...

Unless Annulment Comes First

By Leigh Anne W. Hoover Every little girl dreams of her wedding and being a beautiful bride. What if the fantasy suddenly ended with the word “annulment?”

With her second adult Christian book For Better or Worse...Unless Annulment Comes First, author Leigh Anne W. Hoover explores blessings amidst her own family’s wedding tragedy. In yet another beautifully crafted, personal memoir, discover God’s promise to always be with us as Hoover shares this touching, spiritual testimony of love and faith.

www.Jancarolpublishing.com • www.Amazon.com • www.Barnesandnoble.com 20 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Books You May Have Missed!

Yesterday’s Books and Tomorrow’s Reading

The Blessings of the Butterfly

By Noelle Gibbons In a new twist on the Cinderella story, this wonderful tale is told through beautiful prose and magical drawings of a whimsical land and its inhabitants. Cinders, the male version of Cinderella, is raised in a jungle by chimps, after the death of his beloved parents. His only friend, the Butterfly, comes in his time of need and grants him his wish of attending the competition to be King of the Beasts. The pair of grass slippers, given to him by the Butterfly, gives him a winning chance when the beautiful Ella becomes part of the contest.

Readers of all ages will love The Blessings of the Butterfly.

Moon River

By Amber D. Tran In this debut novel from author Amber D. Tran, a tale of adolescence and heartbreak unfolds. Nine-year-old Abigail Kavanagh first meets Ryan Mills during the summer of 1999. A shy and awkward boy, Ryan hides behind his wide-framed glasses while Abigail is determined to learn everything there is to know about him. The next few summers are filled with birthday parties, adventures in and around the West Virginian mountainsides, and late night conversations where they share their most secretive and personal thoughts.

Fur With an Attitude: The Story of East Tennessee’s Elizabeth Grace

By Susan Howell Delightfully written, this book is a dedication to a beloved dog, Gracie. The story is filled with gifts of expression and love which are evident as it takes the reader through a journey of stories, events, and happenings. One can glean many insights into the fullness of a love shared with a very strongwilled, yet beautiful dog, Gracie.

Heartfelt and inspirational with love and laughter, this dedication will touch the heart of every animal lover.

Secrets, Lies, and Pies (Cutie Pies Chronicles Book 1)

By Lisa Hall Marlene Prescott is one hot ticket in the tiny little town of Coleman, Virginia where her good looks and cool demeanor are almost as legendary as her pies. This does not set well with ladies of The Coleman Canasta Club, better known as The Hens. When The Hens set out to tarnish Marlene’s reputation, Marlene and her two best friends cook up a plan for revenge that is almost as delicious as her pies.

Jan-Carol Publishing Books

www.Jancarolpublishing.com • www.Amazon.com • www.Barnesandnoble.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 21

Oatmeal does a body good!

• • • • • • •

Peanut Butter Oatmeal 2 servings 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil 2 cups Old Fashioned rolled oats ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup water 1 cup milk, oat milk or almond milk (or additional water) 2 to 3 tablespoons peanut butter Melt the butter or coconut oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the oats and toast for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.

Add the salt and cinnamon. Turn the heat to low and carefully pour in the water and milk, stirring. Add the mashed banana, if using. Cover and cook for 5 minutes until tender, then remove from the heat.

Serve immediately for a chunky texture, or stir in an additional ½ cup milk for a creamier body. The texture is intentionally chewy (not gloppy or soggy!). Top with the peanut butter and any other toppings as desired.

Source: www.acouplecooks.com

Pumpkin Baked Steel Cut Oats 6 to 8 servings 1 egg 2 cups milk (or almond milk) ⅓ cup maple syrup ¾ cup pumpkin puree 2 tablespoons melted butter, slightly cooled 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon baking powder ¾ teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup raw steel cut oats ½ cup pecans, chopped 22 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Lowers blood sugar levels.

Provides antioxidants.

Promotes healthy bacteria in your gut.

Helps you to feel full to manage your weight.

Eases constipation.

Relieves skin itching and irritation.

Lowers your chance of colon cancer.

Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease a 9 x 9 baking dish.

In a medium bowl, lightly beat the egg. Whisk it together with the milk, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and vanilla. In a small bowl, mix together the spices, baking powder, and kosher salt. Whisk to combine the spices and baking powder into the wet ingredients, then stir in the raw steel cut oats. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

Cover the pan loosely with foil and bake in the center of the oven for 30 minutes. Uncover the pan and sprinkle with the chopped pecans, then bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown (60 minutes total).

Serve hot, scooped into bowls, or let cool completely to room temperature and cut into squares for serving. You also can refrigerate and serve cold, which is our favorite way to eat it!

Source: www.acouplecooks.com

Best Ever Oatmeal Pancakes Makes 8 Pancakes 2 cups Old Fashioned rolled oats ½ cup Greek yogurt 2 large eggs ½ cup milk of choice 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon kosher salt Melt the butter. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until a smooth batter forms. Wait 5 minutes for the batter to thicken.

Lightly grease a skillet with butter and wipe off extra grease with a paper towel. Heat the skillet over low heat.

Pour the thickened batter into small

circles (about ⅓ cup each). Cook the pancakes until the bubbles pop on the top and the bottoms are golden: low and slow is the key! Then flip them and cook until golden on the other side.

Add 1 tablespoon milk to the remaining batter and stir so that it is pourable. Cook the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as necessary (the skillet can get very hot on the second batch). Place the cooked pancakes under an inverted bowl to keep them warm. Serve immediately with maple syrup. Source: www.acouplecooks.com

Overnight Oats 1 Serving ¾ cup rolled Old Fashioned oats (not steel cut) ¾ cup milk of choice (2%, oat milk, or almond milk) 1 tablespoon maple syrup ½ teaspoon vanilla ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt Topping ideas: berries, banana slices, diced apple, peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, toasted nuts, dried fruit, maple syrup, etc.

Place the oats, milk, maple syrup, vanilla and salt in a small jar with a cover and stir or shake to combine.

Leave in the refrigerator or overnight.

The oats are best the next day, but you can store 2 to 3 days (the texture becomes more sticky). This oatmeal is meant to be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator.

Add toppings and enjoy! If you’d like, you also can microwave the jar for about 40 to 60 seconds.

Source: www.acouplecooks.com

Age-Based Health Screening Guidelines

E

arly detection is crucial to overcoming serious illnesses.

Preventive care is something parents prioritize when raising children, but it’s a crucial component of healthy living as an adult as well.

The following age-specific health screening recommendations, courtesy of Beaumont Health and Columbia Doctors Primary Care, can serve as an preventive care guideline, though doctors may advise patients to get more frequent screenings depending on their medical histories.

18 to 39 years old • Cholesterol: A cholesterol check should occur around age 20, then every five years until age 35.

Afterward it can occur annually.

• Skin screening: An annual full body screening will identify any suspicious moles or skin lesions.

• Cervical cancer: Women in this age range should receive a Pap smear every three years and an annual pelvic exam.

• Breast exam: Self-examination of the breasts and examination by a clinical provider should take place every year.

• Testicular exam: Men should conduct self exams for testicular abnormalities.

• Tdap vaccine: All adults should get the Tdap vaccine if they did not receive it as an adolescent to protect against pertussis, and then a Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years.

• HPV vaccine: The human papilloma virus vaccine is recommended if you did not receive it as an adolescent.

40 to 64 • Zoster (Shingles) vaccine: Two doses of this vaccine will be administered between two and six months apart starting at age 50 and up.

• Colorectal screening: A colonoscopy to detect any colorectal illnesses is recommended beginning at age 50.

• Prostate screening: Prostate screenings begin at age 50 unless you are a high-risk individual, in which case screenings begin at age 40.

• Osteoporosis: Doctors may recommend a bone density test and osteoporosis screening at age 50 and up if certain risk factors are present.

• Lung cancer screening: If you are a past or current smoker, it’s wise to have an annual lung cancer screening.

• Mammogram: Women should begin receiving annual mammograms at age 40.

65 years and older • Cervical cancer: Most women can stop getting Pap smears at this age if they have no history of cervical cancer.

• Pneumococcal and pneumonia vaccines: These are recommended every five years for certain conditions and risk factors.

• Cognitive health: Doctors may assess your cognitive health to see if there are any risk factors for dementias.

In addition to these screenings, doctors may conduct annual depression screenings to assess mental health.

Routine blood glucose monitoring may be necessary based on risk factors for diabetes.

Individuals are urged to speak to their doctors to map out a health screening schedule specific to their needs.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 23

Shhhh…

By Leslie Snyder “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee…” Jeremiah 1:5 KJV Interpretation: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.”

I

’m convinced that children intuitively know God. They aren’t afraid to talk with Him, about Him, or tell you stories that include Him. There is a place in their heart that is open to all things spiritual. I have experienced this in our own family and in others. One very intimate example was given by an author who shared, “A fouryear-old girl was overheard whispering into her baby brother’s ear, “Baby,” she whispers, “tell me what God sounds like. I am starting to forget.”

Seeking God requires listening, and listening is hard work. It takes energy, patience, time, effort, and most of all, silence. And, while most of us are okay with the energy, patience, time, and effort piece, we shudder at the thought of being silent and quickly find ways of filling the widening void.

In silence, the hurts, pains, rejections, and failures we have pushed away come rushing back. In silence, the voices of those who have authority over us can seem to overpower us. In silence, worry and fear linger strangely near us. But consider the paradox offered

by Mother Teresa, “God is the friend of silence.” Elijah learned this while hiding away in a cave. Expecting God to show Himself in loud and magnificent ways, Elijah was offered instead the still, small whisper of God. Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still and know that I am God.” The truth is, things are born in quiet that cannot be heard in the din of our overly verbal days.

Consider your day. Is it full of noise? Do radio, TV, Internet, smartphones, and other fillers clutter your mind with excess noise? Even good things can become clutter if they distract us from times of quiet.

I challenge you to “unplug.” Leave the phone at home and take a walk. Resist the temptation to speak. Walk in silence and ask God to speak to you. Become aware of the small joys you may have forgotten, like the sound of children playing in the distance, the sound of a bird or squirrel chattering in a tree, or even listen to your own heartbeat.

Silence can be deafening. It can be threatening or even terrifying. But it can also be healing, purifying, life giving, and restorative.

Being content in silence takes practice. Try spending 5, 10, or even 15 minutes today in silence. Increase your time each day and keep a journal with you to record your experience. www.homeword.com

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Long-term Solutions to Protect Joints

P

eriodic aches and pains can affect anyone. Though minor tweaks may be somewhat normal, long-term issues like persistent joint pain should not be written off as par for the course. It can be tempting to write joint pain off as a concern only serious athletes need to worry about. The Mayo Clinic notes that lack of exercise can contribute to pain and stiffness in the joints. That’s because exercise strengthens the muscles and tissues that surround the joints.

In recognition of the threat posed by chronic joint pain, the Arthritis Foundation ® recommends individuals take various steps to protect their joints over the long haul.

• Focus less on fashion in regard to footwear. The AF notes that heels put added stress on the knees and increase risk for osteoporosis, and experts indicate that three-inch heels are seven times more stressful on feet than one-inch heels. Men also must pay attention to what they’re putting on their feet. For example, sandals without a back strap force toes to over-grip the edge of the sandal, putting needless strain on each foot and potentially causing issues with the toes.

• Alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. Joint stiffness and strain can develop when individuals spend lengthy periods of time sitting or standing. The AF recommends taking a break to stand up or sit down every 30 minutes.

Professionals who sit at a desk all day may want

to switch to height-adjustable desks that make it easy for them to transition from sitting to standing and still get their work done.

• Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight causes a ripple effect that impacts the entire body, including the joints. The AF notes that researchers have determined that losing 11 pounds can reduce risk for osteoarthritis of the knee by 50 percent. On the flip side, each extra pound an individual carries puts four times the stress on his or her knees. Exercising to lose weight can provide the added benefit of preventing joint stiffness.

• Opt for low-impact activities. Low-impact activities like cycling and swimming are easier on the joints than fitness classes that involve high-intensity dancing and kickboxing. In addition, when choosing between a treadmill and elliptical machine, the Mayo Clinic notes that ellipticals are generally considered low-impact machines that are less stressful on the knees, hips and back than running on a treadmill or even outdoors.

Various strategies can help individuals maintain healthy, pain-free joints over the long haul.

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Beginning Anew

By Cindy K. Sproles

T

he holidays are particularly difficult for aging parents, especially in a facility. Independent and assistive living coordinators do their best to provide activities that keep residents busy and involved. Still, the real loneliness sets in after the lights go out. For coordinators in nursing homes, the task of keeping residents involved is even more difficult because many residents are simply unable to be a part of things physically. Despite the efforts of well-meaning activities coordinators, time still ticks away, and memories continue to flood residents’ minds.

Our task becomes helping loved ones trapse through the hard things and move into a new year. It’s easy to look at the accommodations of a facility and remind loved ones of what is available to them, but what we must remember is the independence factor that is missing. Regardless of our age, there is much meaning to being independent. Independence tells us we can still make decisions, do for ourselves, even plan out our own day. When that independence is lost, our attitude changes and a sense of helplessness will step up to the plate. Depression and a sense of hopelessness can take over. So, how do we help our seniors move into a new year in joy rather than depression?

Begin with encouragement. Rather than reminding seniors of what they have, remind them of their strengths and abilities. Encourage their creativity. Praise their gifts of humor and stories. Encouragement can quickly turn the tide for a senior who feels lost and forgotten. When we can convince our loved ones they have special and unique qualities that others can benefit from, a sense of usefulness returns. Encourage your loved ones.

Look to the future and don’t dwell on the past. One of the biggest stumbling blocks for seniors is the loss of their peers. Sometimes daily, they hear of a passing of a friend.

This only serves to drive home our mortality and force us to wonder when our time will come. Imagine how you would 26 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

feel if you were one of the younger siblings and suddenly you were the only one left. You’ve outlived your parents and all your siblings. Suddenly, you realize you are the last of your immediate family — the family you were raised by and with.

There is a rush of realization and fear that overcomes you. Not only is it frightening, but grief for a family past tends to haunt you. Our own mother experienced this in 2021. She suddenly realized, at 95, she was the last of her immediate family. Our role became to encourage her thoughts toward her children and grandchildren. She needed to understand this was not an end but the beginning of a legacy.

She should share her wisdom and zeal for life with her grandchildren. When she realized her value and worth were as important now as when she shared it with her siblings, her attitude changed. She now looks ahead with excitement instead of behind in sadness.

Continue contact. Nothing combats loneliness better than a phone call and a visit. Make an effort to keep in close contact with aging parents. Include them in holiday planning and family gatherings. As humans, regardless of age, we long for interaction. We are creatures that need touch, closeness, and conversation. Keep the lines of communication open.

Visit and talk regularly with your seniors to help keep them informed and feeling productive. We all need the attention of those we love. The best part is our gift of conversation and time is free. It doesn’t cost us a penny. Spend quality time with your loved ones. The day will come when you cannot.

Kick off the new year with joy and encouragement.

Cherish the time you have with your aging parents. Laugh with them and tell stories. This is how memories are made.

Then when the tables turn, and you are in their position, you have hopefully laid the pathway for your children.

{

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.

January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to celebrate the lifesaving impact of blood and platelet donors. It has been celebrated each January for nearly 50 years and coincides with one of the most difficult times to maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients and this year is no exception.

How to Prepare to Donate Blood B

lood donations have dropped considerably since the onset of the pandemic. Even a return to relative normalcy has not solved the emergency blood and platelets shortage. According to the Red Cross, the spread of the Delta variant had, by the end of summer 2021, spurred fears and sparked the lowest levels of donor turnout all year. Estimates from the Red Cross by the end of September 2021 suggested the group needed to collect 10,000 additional blood products per week in order to meet the growing demand for blood and platelets.

Blood donation is a selfless act that saves lives every day, and organizations like the Red Cross note that it’s safe to donate even as the world continues to battle the COVID-19 virus. For instance, the Red Cross requires that everyone at blood drives and blood donation centers wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status. In addition, Red Cross protocols allow for face shields, but not as a substitute for face masks.

Individuals who want to donate can make the process go smoothly by following these day of donation tips, courtesy of the Red Cross.

• Start your RapidPass ®. After booking an appointment, donors can start their RapidPass® before they arrive at a blood drive or donation center. The RapidPass ® is a form that asks

donors for some basic information, including their health histories, and takes about 10 to 15 minutes to fill out. Filling the form out ahead of an appointment can make appointments go more quickly.

• Bring additional personal information.

Donors will need a photo ID, such as a donor card or driver’s license, so donation center workers can confirm their identities. A list of additional forms of acceptable photo identification can be found at redcrossblood.org. Donors also should bring a list of prescription and overthe-counter medications they’re taking.

• Hydrate prior to your appointment. The Red Cross recommends donors drink an extra pint of water, or another nonalcoholic beverage, prior to their donation appointment.

• Wear appropriate attire. A shirt with sleeves that easily roll up above the elbow is ideal when donating blood.

• Let donation center employees know about previous donor experiences. Donors can share valuable information about past donation experiences that they think are relevant with donation center employees.

• Relax. Some relaxing music or lighthearted conversation with fellow donors can help donors soothe any nerves they might have during the donation process.

Medical facilities are in need of blood and platelet donations. Individuals can learn more about what they can to do help overcome shortages at redcrossblood.org.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 27

Create Positive Outcomes for Kids During and After Divorce D

ivorce can be difficult for a couple, but challenges also arise when children are in the mix. Most municipalities consider the best interests of the child when it comes to mapping out custody agreements or other decisions, but couples can get the ball rolling by considering the children in each and every decision being made. This can ensure the divorce process—however difficult—leads to more positive outcomes.

Willingness to support each other Adults get divorced for various reasons, notably because they no longer feel comfortable nor willing to stay together in the household. No matter what you feel about a soon-to-be or former spouse, it’s important to be cooperative with one another and work together to support relationships with the children. The more cooperative everyone is, the more supported and happy a child may feel.

Develop a common message Do not use the divorce as a way to disparage the other person or shift blame, which can make co-parenting harder in the future. Get together to develop a common message on why you’re getting divorced and how you plan to be civil in the future when birthdays, marriages, sports practices, and anything else comes up.

28 | January 2022 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Let children have a say Children who are old enough to have a voice should be invited to do so. A judge may even speak with a child around age 12 or older to find out his or her preferences about custody and visitation, according to Divorce.net. Children may naturally gravitate toward one parent, and when the marriage has ended, he or she may want to live with or spend more time with a particular parent. All considerations should be made to help children feel comfortable, even if it forces parents to make additional concessions.

Consider a child specialist Children may appreciate the opportunity to speak with a family or child therapist who can lend an unbiased ear. In addition, a professional can review how you plan to interact and speak with the children so that the tone and the messages will be more well-received.

Expect and answer questions Divorce is fluid, and even after the separation occurs children may still have questions or there will be an adjustment period. Being open, willing to talk and answer questions, and reinforcing that the divorce is not the fault of the child or children is important, indicates Yeatts Law Firm.

Divorce is seldom easy, but when children are prioritized, they can walk away from the experience in a much more positive way.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2022 | 29

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.

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CLUES ACROSS 1. Breathe noisily 5. __ Nui, Easter Island 9. Reddish browns 11. Simple shoes 13. Produce alcohol illegally 15. Home to famed golf tournament 16. Tax collector 17. Famous people 19. Urban area 21. Units of syllable weight 22. Pituitary hormone (abbr.)

23. Dismounted 25. Actor Damon 26. Vietnamese offensive 27. Retail term 29. Netted 31. Partner to carrots 33. Witnesses 34. Caulked 36. Satisfy 38. R&B performer __ Lo 39. Monetary units of Macao 41. Give advice, explain 43. Possesses 44. Turn back 46. Gentlemen 48. One who fertilizes 52. Italian monk title (prefix) 53. Parties 54. Type of horse 56. Cuts in half 57. Raises 58. Expresses contempt or disgust 59. Ancient Italian-Greek colony

CLUES DOWN 1. Illinois city 2. One of the original disciples chosen by Christ 3. Young form of a louse 4. Type of powder 5. Finger millet 6. Share a common boundary 7. Assumed as a fact 8. Provide clear evidence of 9. Invests in little enterprises 10. A way to be 11. Monies given in support 12. Fashion accessory 14. Steal 15. Becomes less intense 18. Geological times 20. Hooray!

24. Monetary unit 26. Male reproductive organs 28. Earnings 30. Close by 32. Small integers 34. Fixed in place 35. Used to treat Parkinson’s disease 37. Large, imposing building 38. A rooflike shelter 40. Stiff, hairlike structure 42. Print errors 43. To show disapproval 45. Body of traditions 47. Without 49. __ Clapton, musician 50. Dangerous illegal drug 51. Infrequent 55. Sound unit

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