October 27, 2022

Candidates for county commissioners’ seats pitch their priorities at forum

BY TEVIN STINSON THE CHRONICLE

With three seats up for grabs and the possibility of a majority party shift, the race for District A and at-large seats on the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners may be some of the most anticipated races on the local ballot.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Black Political Awareness League, The Ministers’ Conference of WinstonSalem and Vicinity, the local branch of the NAACP, and The Chronicle, last week the candidates in those races came together to openly discuss their platforms and take questions from voters during an open forum.

District A There are two Democrats and two Republicans in the race for the two seats up for grabs in District A.

Tonya McDaniel (D), the only incumbent that will appear on the ballot, was first elected in 2018 and is seeking her second term. During her time on the board, McDaniel said she has helped bring valuable programs, initiatives, and funding to District A. She also discussed the relationship she has built with other members of the board.

Moving forward, McDaniel said there is still work to be done. Earlier this year she mentioned the need to improve the county’s facilities on Highland Avenue. The county’s Social Security, Health, and Human Resources departments are all located on Highland Avenue in WinstonSalem. She said the facilities on Highland Avenue should provide wrap-around services that benefit the entire community.

“One of my priorities is to build back better Forsyth County,” McDaniel continued. “And what does that look like? … Highland Avenue. I want to see that look like a campus, I want to see that location be wrap-around services that transform this community.”

Shai Woodbury (D) currently serves on the local school board

and is the first Black woman to serve as chair of the school board. Woodbury said her main focus if elected to serve on the board of commissioners will be education, improving teacher pay, and bringing a much-needed change to District A.

During the forum, Woodbury also discussed the need to ensure everyone in Forsyth County has representation on the board.

“I’m not a big party person, I’m a big human person and in order for Forsyth County to move forward, we have to think beyond homogeneous representation. We have to be represented by what our society looks like,” Woodbury continued. “I’m running for County Commissioner District A because in District A we are the most uneducated, the most unsafe, the most unhealthy, and that must change.”

Reginald Reid (R), who serves on the county’s Home and Community Care Block Grant Committee, is telling voters to “try something different” this election season. While addressing the crowd during the forum,

Reid said he’s running to improve social services throughout the county, specifically services for seniors, and to create “people centric programs.” He also mentioned the need to improve public safety and limit government spending.

“We are headed for a perfect storm in terms of our social services and I’m running because I want to tackle this problem to create more people-centric programs,” Reid said.

Michael R. Owens (R), who was born in Greensboro and has lived in Winston-Salem for the past 20 years, says if elected he will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of NC and reduce federal influence at the local levels as much as possible. He said the purpose of the government is to protect citizens and their property.

“Government wants to control everything and if you don’t have the right people in place to control the government, it will control you,” Owens said. “Like my friend Reggie here, think

about something different this November. For decades this city has been run by the Democrat Party. If you’re unhappy in any way with the direction this city is taking, think about something different.”

At-Large

In the race for the two atlarge seats on the board, voters will choose between Democrat Dan Besse and Republican Terri Mrazek

Besse (D) is probably most known for his time as a member of the Winston-Salem City Council. He served 19 years as the representative for the Southwest Ward.

Besse said he’s running to bridge the gap between the more rural areas of the county. He said there is great wealth in Forsyth County but it’s unevenly distributed.

“I think we need to pay special attention to bridging the gaps in good healthcare, access to public education, public safety, housing,” Besse continued. “We have great wealth in Forsyth County but it is unevenly

distributed and we have to leverage both the public and private sectors in our community county-wide in order to address the problems across the county.”

Mrazek (R) is looking to win a seat on the board of commissioners for the second time. In 2020 Mrazek unsuccessfully ran as a candidate for District B. A business owner, a mother of five and grandmother of 10, Mrazek’s platform includes plans to lower taxes, improving local schools and public safety.

For the past several years Mrazek said she’s been attending county commissioners’ meetings to learn more about the board. Mrazek believes she’s the best candidate and that she will work well with the board. Mrazek has received an endorsement from the current chair of the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, Dave Plyler

“I raised my children as a single parent and I learned what it took to do the job and get it done and keep surviving. So no matter how many times I’ve been knocked down, I know how to get back up,” Mrazek said. “I believe that I will be the best candidate and a team player for every county commissioner that’s currently on the board.”

During the forum candidates also answered questions about economic development, improving schools, the recent rise in crime, and others.

Sen. Paul Lowe Jr., (D), who is seeking his fourth term as the representative for District 32 in the N.C. Senate, also participated in the forum. Lowe is running against Republican George Ware, who was invited but did not attend the forum.

The last forum will be held at the Forsyth County Central Library, 660 W. 5th St. in Winston Salem, on Thursday, Oct. 27. The forum will feature candidates running for seats on the Forsyth County Board of Education. The forums will be aired live on The Chronicle’s Facebook page.

County commissioners approve Cure Violence contract

BY TEVIN STINSON THE CHRONICLE

Last week the Forsyth County Board of Commis-

sioners approved a twoyear contract with the Cure Violence Program to help reduce crime.

During the meeting on Thursday, Oct. 13, the board of commissioners unanimously approved the two-year contract with Neighbors for Better Neighborhoods (NBN) for the implementation of the program. Cure Violence is a violence interruption program that aims to stop the spread of violence in communities by using the methods and strategies associated with public health and disease control, by defeating and interrupting

conflicts, identifying and treating the highest risk individuals, and changing social norms.

In March the board of commissioners approved Cure Violence as an ARPA (American Rescue Plan) funded project. The City of Winston-Salem has also agreed to fund 50% of the program.

Once in place, the Cure Violence program will focus its efforts on police beat 222, which includes Martin Luther King Drive and New Walkertown Road and stretches to 18th Street.

While law enforcement

will still be responsible for handling violent crime such as shootings in beat 222, Cure Violence is designed to stop the violence before it starts by building relationships with the people who live in the com-

munity.

According to county officials, only two proposals were submitted for the Cure Violence contract and the review committee determined that NBN “demonstrated the capacity for program management and financial management, and could utilize its experience with community-based organizing to hire and implement the Cure Violence model with fidelity.”

Latoya Robinson, executive director of Neighbors for Better Neighborhoods, said she is looking forward to the partnership with Cure Violence, For-

syth County, the City of Winston-Salem, and local law enforcement.

“NBN is looking forward to implementing the Cure Violence Community Based Violence Prevention Program to address violence throughout Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, to change individual and community attitudes and norms about gun violence,” Robinson said. “We appreciate being considered as a lead organization to implement the Cure Violence Program and we look forward to beginning this work.”

Photo by Tevin Stinson

Candidates for Forsyth County Commissioner seats pitch their focus points if elected at the candidates forum held Thursday, Oct. 20.

2022 will be remembered as the year European museums began to return stolen and looted artifacts to the African cultures to whom they belonged.

But while some physical items are finding their way back home, the stolen histories and legacies of African people remain locked away in the dungeons of white supremacy.

The centuries-old practice of European appropriation of African culture and achievement has, not surprisingly, created a keen sense of suspicion within the African diaspora toward European assertions of racial classifications of historical figures.

The discovery of the tomb of the pharaoh Tutankhamun in November 1922 precipitated a blizzard of news reports out of Egypt as archaeologists cataloged and removed items from the burial chamber where the African ruler had lain for thousands of years. Then

on positive black male images during Black History Month in order to instill self-esteem in and encourage self-discipline among young black males, who are often deprived of positive black images.

“Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Los Angeles City Council (declares King Tut Day) ... for the increased cultural and historical heritage which has brought much awareness and enrichment to our community.”

This resolution, with the official weight of the City of Los Angeles behind it, declared that Tutankhamun was Black, and thus he represented a proud heritage for African Americans. This was because if Tutankhamun could be identified as Black, ancient Egypt could be reclaimed as a Black civilization. And by extension, the foundations of “Western Civilization” itself could be identified as Black culture.

But acclaim for Blackness is always met with

ancient migration patterns out of central Africa into Egypt, visual authentication of the representations of ancient Egyptians on their monuments, among other methods, Diop established a factual record of the African roots of the Ancient Nile Valley civilization and the origins of Ancient Egypt that has not been successfully refuted to this day.

Diop’s scholarship brought credibility to another Black scholar, George G.M. James. In 1954, James published his then-controversial book, “Stolen Legacy.” In “Stolen Legacy,” James argued that Greek philosophy was stolen Egyptian philosophy and that the Egyptians educated the Greeks.

After convincingly making his case in his book, James states: “Now that it has been shown that philosophy, and the arts and sciences were bequeathed to civilization by the people of North Africa and not by the people of Greece; the pendulum of praise and honour is due to shift from the people of Greece to the people of the African continent who are the rightful heirs of such praise and honour.

“This is going to mean a tremendous change in world opinion, and attitude, for all people and races who accept the new philosophy of African redemption, i.e. the truth that the Greeks were not the authors of Greek philosophy; but the people of North

Africa; would change their opinion from one of disrespect to one of respect for the Black people throughout the world and treat them accordingly.”

Unfortunately, George G.M. James was naive in his belief that truth and knowledge would be accepted over the desire to maintain white supremacy. The persistent and pernicious efforts to deny and hide the human accomplishments that have come out of Africa are dramatized by a Richard Pryor skit in which he portrays an archaeologist, who, along with three white archaeologists, unseals and enters an Egyptian tomb and discovers documented evidence that Africans had accomplished great achieve-

ments down through the ages. But while Pryor is intensely focused on the discovered documentation, the three white archaeologists quietly sneak out of the tomb, reseal it with Pryor in it and call for it to be bulldozed because there is “nothing to learn” there. White supremacists will never yield to the truth if that truth threatens white supremacy. And it is up to all people of good conscience to work to bring all truths into the light.

Oscar H. Blayton is a former Marine Corps combat pilot and human rights activist who practices law in Virginia. His earlier commentaries may be found at https://oblayton1.medium.com/.

in January 1923, the press went silent. After 28 articles were printed by the London Times and 43 were printed by the New York Times during a twomonth period, there was an unexplained silence.

This silence did not go unnoticed by the Negro World, the newspaper published by Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League. In the summer of 1923, an editorial in the Negro World gave voice to the suspicion that the news had dried up because the archaeologists had discovered that Tutankhamun was Black and wanted that fact covered up. According to the editorial, “white Americans call nothing creditable Negroid if they can possibly find another name for it.”

While the Africaness of the ancient Egyptians was given much credibility by many white historians and academics, the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 ignited arguments about the presumed race of the ancient Egyptians.

Just prior to the arrival of the “King Tut” exhibit in Los Angeles, California, in 1978, Tom Bradley, the first African American mayor of the city, signed a resolution passed by the city council declaring Sunday, Feb. 12, 1978, “King Tut Day.” This resolution was linked to Black History Month and pronounced that Tut was an exemplary Black man. It also proclaimed King Tut Day as a celebration of Black culture. In part, the resolution stated:

“Whereas each of the rulers of the eighteenth dynasty ... was either black, ‘negroid,’ or of black ancestry, and all would be classified as black if they were citizens of the United States today; and …

“Whereas it is particularly important to focus

resistance. A few months after the Los Angeles resolution was passed, the King Tut exhibit was moved to New York City’s Museum of Metropolitan Art. In preparation for the exhibit’s arrival, the museum published a small booklet titled “Tutankhamun and the African Heritage.” The booklet’s stated purpose was to address concerns about the racial composition of Ancient Egypt’s population in a balanced fashion. But it is reported that in the end, the booklet declared, without empirical evidence, that the population of ancient Egypt was more “caucasoid” than “negroid.”

Because of white America’s attempts to disassociate Egypt from Africa, there have been constant complaints from the Black community over what has been seen as a whitening of Tut and of Egypt. The cover story of the November 1977 edition of Sepia magazine decried “The Big Tut Ripoff! (National Insult to Blacks).” The arguments around the Blackness of Tutankhamun were seen as just another attempt to rob Black folk of their rightful place in history.

However, in 1974, the International Scientific Committee of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) held its symposium on “The Peopling of Ancient Egypt” and published its report in 1981. During this symposium, Professor Cheikh Anta Diop, a Senegalese historian, anthropologist, physicist and politician, presented empirical evidence that from the Upper Paleolithic era to the dynastic epoch of Egypt, the whole of the Nile River basin was populated by Negroid peoples. Through a very long and methodical process using linguistics, physical anthropology, possible

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Nielsen study shows media, marketers often miss the mark in connecting with Black consumers

NNPA NEWSWIRE

With authentic representation lacking and increased consumer demand for brands to directly benefit Black communities, 2022 saw a 10-point decline in Black viewers who are more likely to buy from brands that advertise in inclusive content.

Nielsen’s latest Diverse Intelligence Series report, “Amplifying Black voices in media: Creating informed, thoughtful and authentic experiences,” explores why 2022 saw a 10-percentage point decline in Black viewers who are more likely to buy from brands that advertise in inclusive content compared to 2021.

The report delves into the reasons behind this decline, examining the relationship between authenticity and engagement and the impact of inclusion beyond what’s on screen.

The report found that Black audiences are seeking more authenticity and nuance in media content and ad campaigns. Nielsen’s Attitudes on Representation on TV study found that 59% of Black viewers are more likely to buy from brands that feature someone from their identity group in advertisements, while Nielsen’s Branded Content Outcomes studies show significantly higher performance for campaigns that feature Black talent.

Brands attempting to reach Black consumers through ad placements in inclusive content are investing heavily with over $1.2 billion spent in Black and African American targeted traditional media in the first half of 2022 alone. However, Black audiences prefer streaming: 63% report streaming content as their most watched platform and 62% indicated streaming as the most relevant platform.

Nielsen’s report underscores that Black audiences also care about how they are represented in media content and where their images and experiences are presented. Only 32% of Black audiences feel industry representation of their identity group is accurate, and the growing intersectional identities within the Black community make nuanced representation more important than ever.

The report also highlights the power of partnering with Black talent at every stage of the marketing funnelfrom campaign creators and media owners, to on-screen talent and social media influencers.

“The media industry has an opportunity to better serve the needs of Black audiences through inclusive and equitable representation on screen, behind the scenes, in advertising, and on other platforms where they come into contact with brands and content creators,” says Charlene Polite Corley, vice president, Diverse Insights & Partnerships at Nielsen. “Black audiences wield cultural influence and growing buying power and serving the needs of this community is not only good business, but it is also the right thing to do.”

For more details and insights, download the full report from https://www.nielsen.com/insights/2022/amplifying-black-voices-in-media/. Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook (Nielsen Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) and Twitter (@Nielsen_DEI).

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Georgia is ground zero for Democracy

Ben Jealous Guest Columnist

Like so many of us right now, I’ve got Georgia on my mind.

As I write this, I’ve just gotten back from meeting with Black ministers who are working nonstop to get out the vote across the state. And with good reason, because there’s just no other way to say it - Georgia is ground zero for the future of our democracy in this midterm election.

Control of the Senate could hinge on whether Rev. Raphael Warnock can keep his Senate seat or is defeated by Herschel Walker, a familiar former athlete who has become a far-right extremist. Depending on who gains a Senate majority, the rest of the Biden-Harris administration agenda is either on track or dead on arrival in Congress.

The governor’s race features an incumbent

MAGA diehard, Brian Kemp,

Stacey Abrams. I have written about Stacey and our decades-long friendship before. No one is more committed to civil rights and greater opportunity for Georgians than Stacey. Reelecting Kemp would be a disaster, not just for Georgians, but for a country in which MAGA schemers are looking to capture as many states as possible to advance their reactionary agenda.

Kemp’s record is appalling. In a state with a large share of uninsured Black Americans, including high numbers of Black children, Kemp has refused to expand Medicaid so that more Georgians could have health care. He signed a law making it easier for just about anybody, including dangerous white supremacists, to carry concealed weapons. His administration has cut state contracts with Black businesses, and is responsible for denying unemployment claims for twice as many Black workers as white workers. Kemp recently signed an anti-choice law so extreme that women

The MAGA folks in Georgia know the coalition of Black voters and young voters who made history in 2020 won’t vote for this agenda. Those voters changed the course of the nation when they went for Joe Biden and Senate candidates Rev. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff. The MAGA Far Right went crazy, and they made Georgia the home of some of the worst votersuppression laws in the country since the original Jim Crow. One of those even made it illegal to give snacks and water to voters waiting in long lines. All of that was for one reason: to stop people, mostly Black people, from voting in the next big election. And that election is now.

We can’t stand by and let that happen. Black voters have the power to decide the election in Georgia, which will probably decide the future of our country in some ways we can predict and others we can’t. This is especially

true for Black men, who still don’t vote in the high percentages Black women do. Black men in Georgia have to come out to the polls this year.

It doesn’t surprise me that once again, Georgia is so central to Black American history. It has been that way for as long as we’ve had a history. Every time I visit, I’m moved by it. That sense of a momentous past is everywhere, mixed with the New South energy that makes the state such a unique place. Meeting with Georgians this time, I could feel the deep commitment to moving the state forward instead of back. That fills me with hope.

The eyes of the country – and even the world – are on Georgia this fall, and I believe Georgia will make us proud.

Ben Jealous serves as president of People For the American Way and Professor of the Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. A New York Times best-selling author, his next book, “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free” will be published by Harper Collins in January 2023.

versus

who have miscarriages could be arrested. Women who terminate pregnancies could be charged with murder.

FORUM

The importance of midterm elections can’t be overstated so go out and vote!

Dr. James B. Ewers Jr.

Guest Columnist

We enjoy freedom each day of our lives as it is a fundamental tenet of our America. Our Constitution was designed so that we could have choices. The early founders understood that these choices and rights would define our way of life.

As we know, there are parts of the world where dictatorships rule the day, and their citizens have no choices or rights. Sadly, they must contend with whatever their governments say because they have no say. That is why

countries who have no freedoms look at America as a land of opportunity.

Do we take these freedoms and privileges for granted?

The way of life we have is the only way of life that we know. Unlike our brothers and sisters in foreign lands, we wake up every day free! We don’t have to seek out hiding places because our views may be contrary to others. Our voices are not muted and muffled because we fear those in charge.

Let’s just say proudly and simply that freedom is a beautiful thing.

Yet we know that along with freedom comes responsibility. Having choices and rights are inextricably tied to the responsibilities that we have as citizens of this nation. Voting has been a long-

standing staple of our democracy. This right to vote is not to be taken lightly.

If you are Black like me, you know the history that we have had with voting. From the poll tax to The Voting Rights Act of 1965, it has always been a struggle; however, we have persisted and prevailed. Blood shed and lives lost have placed voting as a consistent priority for us. This is my opinion.

Our voting has resulted in significant improvements in our quality of life, yet we still have challenges ahead. Living where we live and how we use our resources have come as a direct result of our voting at all levels. The power of the vote in many respects has been our safety net. The record will show that our right to vote has often been met with resistance.

We need to look no further than the state of Georgia.

Georgia State Bill 202 has created barriers for voters. For example, there is a distance requirement for food and water to be given to voters in line. In my opinion, this is ridiculous and disheartening.

Another new regulation is the time to request and return absentee ballots has dropped from 176 days to 59 days, according to reports.

Liz Conrad, deputy director of Fair Fight, a voting rights organization in the state said, “For voters who wish to vote by mail, many are now overcoming these barriers while attempting to make their voices heard.”

Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples

Agenda said, “What we have to do now is canvassing to really educate people about the process. We are trying to make sure that people are still able to exercise their right to vote.”

It is clear to many in the Peach State that State Bill 202 is problematic.

Shanice Amira Bennerson, a former precinct manager, decided not to continue as a poll worker. She said,” Trying to help voters who were just so confused and dejected is heartbreaking. When you have limited precincts and voters who are confused by these changes, some just left.”

Despite these voting entanglements, I believe the people of Georgia will have the final say. The detours will only make them stronger and more determined.

There will always be those who create nonsensical rules that inhibit forward progress. We have overcome too much and come too far to turn back now.

Midterm elections will be occurring in Georgia and across the country. Don’t worry, we will be there in record numbers. Vote on Tuesday, November 8!

James B. Ewers Jr., Ed.D., is a former tennis champion at Atkins High School in Winston-Salem and played college tennis at Johnson C. Smith University, where he was all-conference for four years. He is a retired college administrator. He can be reached at overtimefergie.2020@yahoo.com.

perbolic.

Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves. The only way they could do this is by not voting.

- Franklin D. Roosevelt

Since midterm elections rarely have the pizazz of a presidential contest, a lot of eligible citizens don’t bother to vote in them. To a growing number of those citizens who do vote, failing to cast a ballot this year would be comparable to crewmembers of the Titanic abandoning their posts as the ship approached the iceberg. I’m not being hy-

Choose your own definition: we’re in a crisis, we’re at an inflection point, the shift has hit the fan. However you characterize this moment in the United States of Disruption, people across the political spectrum agree: staying on the sidelines this election is a cop out.

Vote for the children

To a growing number of citizens, it’s hard to fathom that anyone would feel apathetic about voting this fall. If you’re thinking about sitting out, take a minute to consider the world your children and grandchildren will inherit. If you don’t want to vote for yourself, then vote for them.

In the U.S. - like in so many other countries on every continent - the natural environment is being battered by one catastrophe after another: from unprecedented wildfires to super

hurricanes. Our interconnectedness among the family of nations means that these emergencies - as well as the floods in Pakistan, the blistering heat waves from India to Europe, and the droughts from Africa to China and, of course, the war in Ukraine - are impacting life from the gas pump to the grocery store. Will connecting these dots - as well as the others that reveal the fragile state of democracy - contribute to more citizens voting? I hope so.

There’s a growing movement of people who believe that not voting should be against the law. Think that’s far fetched? Consider Australia. It’s compulsory for every eligible Australian to vote in all elections and referendums. That’s a worthy model for Congress to look into adopting down the road. Right now though, whether by mail, early, or

on the day of, vote.

Compared to most high-income countries, turnout in the U.S. is below average, the Council of Foreign Relations reported in August. In the 2020 national elections, for example, just 62% voted. Contrast that with highturnout countries, including Belgium, Sweden, and the Netherlands, at 75% or higher.

In 2020 only 70% of eligible voters were registered, the Census Bureau reported. Since in many states citizens can still register, reach out now to those you know among the apathetic 30%.

Vote because it’s patriotic

If voting to ensure that future generations have a livable planet to inhabit isn’t reason enough, how about voting as a patriotic act? Despite the term being variously interpreted by different constituencies,

Ukraine, than at any time since John Kennedy and Nikita Khrushchev found a path back from the brink six decades ago.

Sixty years ago this week, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, I was in my mother’s womb. My young, sweet mom was terrified she’d never get to see me be born, as the world teetered on the brink of unimaginable calamity. It’s bewildering to me that nuclear crises bookend my life at this point.

I’ve worked for nuclear disarmament since 1983, but here we are, perhaps closer to nuclear catastrophe, with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s thinly veiled nuclear threats in his disastrous war against

Decades of progress in reducing the overall number of nuclear weapons in the world has recently been undercut by backsliding on nuclear weapons treaties, lack of progress on disarmament (in fact, the opposite, a new arms race with all nuclear states “upgrading” their arsenals), and hypocrisy on non-proliferation by the nuclear powers.

There are now nine nuclear-armed statesthe U.S., Russia, China, France, Britain, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea - and many more that could go nuclear if they so choose. Clearly, humanity has so far failed to deal with the existential

threat of the weaponized atom.

Moreover, the fact that a single person, the chief executive in those nine countries, on his or her own authority, could initiate a nuclear war that could wipe out all or most life on Earth is unacceptable if one has any notion of democracy or the common good.

Harvard professor Elaine Scarry laid this out simply in her trenchant book, ”Thermonuclear Monarchy: Choosing Between Democracy and Doom.” Why, in our supposedly advanced state of social development as a species, we allow such power to be invested in nine individuals, is a question worthy of intense scrutiny, and sorely needed change.

However, the current

crisis brings with it the opportunity to re-engage on nuclear disarmament issues at the grassroots level in order to show our government it needs to get serious about reducing, not exacerbating, the nuclear threat.

My organization, Peace Action, is part of a coalition called Defuse Nuclear War, which is doing just that. This month, with the anniversary of the Cuban Missile Crisis as well as the current threat by Russia to use nukes in its faltering war in Ukraine, is a great time to get active.

Last Friday, local events were held in over 40 cities across the U.S. to sound the alarm. Activities are ongoing; the defusenuclearwar.org website has helpful tools and suggestions for action including writing letters to the

perhaps we can all agree on one core belief: patriotism places the wellbeing of the nation ahead of our own.

In this fraught moment, patriotism certainly means more than “public service” or “volunteering” or “being a good citizen.” Being a patriot today is akin to a firefighter rushing into a burning house, except it’s not to save the inhabitants.

It’s rushing into a house divided in order to save democracy from being scorched beyond recognition.

In considering sharing these ideas with those you know - or suspect - aren’t planning to vote, remind them of these basic truths:

*Voting is important because it’s the best way to ensure our voice is heard in how government is run.

*Voting is important because the people we choose to represent us have a real impact on our lives.

*Voting is important

because the freedom to vote is among our most cherished rights.

*Voting is important because it expresses our commitment to each other, our country, the world and ourselves.

The actor-activist Jesse Williams has an answer for those who don’t vote. “If someone says, ‘I was making a statement by not voting,’ then you say, ‘Well, I can’t hear it.’”

Plato, more than 2000 years ago, went even further. “One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.”

To quote nearly every U.S. president, “Vote.”

Rob Okun, (rob@ voicemalemagazine.org) syndicated by Peace Voice, writes about politics and culture. For more than a quarter century he has edited Voice Male, a magazine chronicling the antisexist men’s movement.

editor (still a great way to get our message out to the public) and social media engagement. Expect more resources including videos and Zoom educational and organizing events soon.

The demands of Defuse Nuclear War are simple and clear:

*End the policy of first use of nuclear weapons;

*Rejoin nuclear arms control and reduction treaties;

*Take U.S. weapons off hair-trigger alert;

*Eliminate land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles;

*Support Congressional legislation, House Resolution 1185, backing the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons;

*Move the money to human needs, not war.

At this time of dire threat, we can’t sit back and rely on politicians to get it right. Kennedy and

his advisors almost didn’t in 1962; it was perhaps more luck than skill that averted Armageddon.

Please get involved with Defuse Nuclear War actions, and invite your family, friends, colleagues, and social media audiences to do the same, as we need to broaden our circle. It may be, as the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists Doomsday Clock warns, perilously close to midnight, but we can help turn the clock back on nuclear catastrophe if we act together.

The babies in mothers’ wombs worldwide need us right now.

Kevin Martin, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is President of Peace Action Education Fund, the country’s largest grassroots peace and disarmament organization with more than 200,000 supporters nationwide.

Vote for your children’s future. Vote because it’s patriotic.

Rob Okun Guest Columnist

The 2022 Forsyth County Entertainment Awards raises funds, awareness for NICU

BY BUSTA BROWN FOR THE CHRONICLE

It’s been four years since the Forsyth County Entertainment Awards (FCEA) were held and now they’re finally back! The inaugural ceremony was held on July 8, 2012, and it’s been one of the most anticipated events in the Triad area.

The founder of NCEA is Winston- Salem native Ellen Forbes. “There are a lot of people behind the scenes that aren’t recognized or receive awards. Superstar entertainers such as Beyonce have people behind the scenes that’s played a major role in their success. From makeup, vocal coaching, wardrobe, choreography, and more. So, I started this to acknowledge those that are often overlooked … those unsung heroes,” shared Forbes.

The reason behind the four-year gap is something you may see in a blockbuster movie or read in a best-selling novel. “In January 2019, during the process for the 5th annual Forsyth County Entertainment Awards, my oldest daughter, Lakira Leak, was killed in a car wreck on her way to work. It was raining like cats and dogs. She ran off the side of the road. She was only 21,” shared a surprisingly cool and calm Ellen Forbes.

I quietly prayed for her strength, patience, and understanding. And then I asked: how are you able to have such a beautiful and warm spirit as you speak about losing your daughter?

“I believe everyone has a clock when their time is up. And fortunately, during my daughter’s time, I

can truly say that she had a wonderful life. She went to Paris and Germany. She spoke several languages, received a full scholarship to UNCG, received an award from President Obama, and was an activist and giver. She was absolutely amazing,” Ellen shared with a beautiful and warm smile.

During Lakira’s funeral service, she shared, “It was a joy to see such a packed house with everyone saying how wonderful my daughter was. Every day I tried to figure out how to live without her, but then I remember how I lived with her and that keeps me going,” said Ellen.

Two months later, Forbes’ strength and resilience was put to the test once again. Her father, Christopher Calvin Leak, died from complications of prostate cancer. “When my dad passed away, I had the

same feelings. It’s hard, but you have to remember those good times.”

In 2019-2020, she and her husband, Leroy Forbes, had a thriving flower shop and then again, the unexpected happened. “I found out I was pregnant. And because I’m older, it was a high-risk pregnancy,” said Ellen. Less than two weeks after Leroy and his wife closed their flower shop, Ellen went into preterm labor. “My water broke and I was less than six months pregnant,” said Ellen. Love Forbes was born on January 20, 2021, but stayed in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) for 98 days. Love’s stay in the NICU inspired Ellen and Leroy to start a nonprofit called One Love Strong Foundation.

“We help families whose child is going into or currently in the NICU or transitioning home.

Forsyth County and the Raleigh-Durham area have the highest numbers of infant mortality and preterm births. So, our mission is to educate people about the NICU.”

This is why the 5th annual Forsyth County Entertainment Awards have such deep meaning. It’s an awards ceremony with a purpose. “November is Prematurity Awareness Month, so that’s why it’s important for our nonprofit to have the awards ceremony this month,” said Ellen. “We’ll have a spokesperson from the March of Dimes and other organizations there. We’ll have food and lots of fun as well. It’s all for a wonderful and much needed cause,” shared Ellen. This year’s hosts are DaVonte McKenith and Audrey Biesk from the WXII Morning Team, and comedian Dion Fowler. Performers will include Joel Hurt, Big Ron Hunter, Sean Mettler and April Waller.

The awardees were chosen a little differently this year. “I don’t want our awardees showing up with their families and

friends and not receiving an award. I’ve been in that situation, and it doesn’t feel good. I refuse to do that to our honorees. So, this year they won’t go through the process of being nominated. This year I picked people that I know are instrumental in our Forsyth County communities. It’s a much easier process, and no one will feel disappointed or embarrassed,” said Ellen. She has one of the biggest hearts of anyone I’ve known in my 30 years living in the Triad.

The 2022 FCEA honorees are: motivational speaker and activist Frankie Gist, who will receive the Lakira Leak Award for Youth; DJ Bobby Locke will receive the Chris Leak Award; painter and decorator Lida Calvert-Hayes will receive the Latisha Alston Award; Bill McClain, owner of Mr. Bill Productions, will receive the Monica Gary Award; radio personality Anita “Bosslady” DeanArnette will receive the Jamica D. Lyons Award; and Kendall Doub, artist and graphic designer, will receive the Mariam Ning Award.

Other honorees include: legendary musician Joe Robinson; musician Keith Byrd, Sr.; sound and studio engineer and videographer Bobby Brower; Dana Bryson; Lana Schlotfeld, The Village Inn general manager; Bobby Roebuck, owner of Shot to the Head Photography; Robert Huff, co-owner of Bo-Ty Florist; Keela Johnson, founder of Forsyth Woman Magazines; Phase Band; and DJ Sweet Breeze.

The FCEA Awards is a fundraiser for the Forbes’ nonprofit, One Love Strong Foundation. The awards ceremony is Nov. 6 at the Village Inn Event Center, 6205 Ramada Dr. in Clemmons. The red carpet and silent auction kickoff begins at 3 p.m., with the awards ceremony and a gala following at 4 p.m. It’s a black-tie affair, so come ready to shine like a star.

For tickets and more info, visit Onelovestrong. org/FCEA.

My Phenomenal Person of the Week is Ellen Forbes.

february 23, 2023 7:30 p.m.

april 12, 2023 7:30 p.m.

BRYAN STEVENSON Social justice activist, public interest lawyer and author of the bestselling book “Just Mercy,” also adapted to a feature film Wait Chapel Presented by Rose and Travis Collins

KRISTIN CHENOWETH Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor and singer best known for her role as Glinda in the musical “Wicked” LJVM Coliseum Presented by Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management

november 15 at 7:30 p.m. THOMAS FRIEDMAN Moderated by PBS NewsHour’s Nick Schifrin

Tickets on Sale Now!

Presented by

Friedman is an internationally renowned author and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for The New York Times Wait Chapel

Join us for the rest of the season and SAVE! 3-event Gold Packages start at $180

Submitted photo

Ellen Forbes, executive director and co-founder of One Love Strong Foundation and founder of Forsyth County Entertainment Awards.

Young Black lawyers’ group said suppression, other tactics threaten African Americans’ political power

BY STACY M. BROWN

A nonpartisan and community-centered movement reminiscent of the Freedom Riders of the civil rights era is on a mission to help Black communities resist and overcome voter suppression during the 2022 midterm election and beyond.

The Young Black Lawyers’ Organizing Coalition (YBLOC) said suppression and other tactics had threatened African Americans’ political power. “YBLOC is mobilizing one of the most ambitious voter protection organizing campaigns in history because inclusive democracy hangs in the balance in November,” said Abdul Dosunmu, YBLOC’s founder and chief strategist, during an appearance on the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s live morning news broadcast, Let It Be Known.

“Our intention is to proactively ready Black voters to do what we have always done: fight the barriers of voter suppression and insist on our right to be heard.”

The coalition has launched a “Black Ballots, Black Futures 2002 voter protection and organizing campaign.

Dosunmu isn’t a stranger to politics and mobilizing. An Obama administration appointee to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Dosunmu served as the department’s chief of staff advisor. He also worked as a senior associate at Precision Strategies, a digital, data, communications, and campaign management firm founded by three pioneers of President Barack Obama’s 2008 and

among the most extensive Black-led voter education efforts to train Black vot ers to identify and resist voter suppression tactics to ensure their ballots are counted.

“These sessions aim to equip an estimated 60,000 Black voters with the information they need to protect their vote and help amplify this message in their communities,” Dosunmu stated.

The group has found success.

Earlier this year, YBLOC and a coalition of organizations representing the Black legal commu nity launched “Pass Her the Gavel,” a letter-writing and public engagement campaign that supported a fair confirmation process for Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. Brown Jackson earned confirmation to the high court in April.

Additionally, as part of the ongoing grassroots ef fort to protect and empow er the Black electorate, YBLOC filed an amicus

County commissioner knows firsthand the value of the homeownership program

BY JOHN RAILEY

Forsyth County Commissioner Tonya McDaniel knows the value of the county’s homeownership program firsthand: In 2010, she bought her home through it. “It’s a great program,” McDaniel said recently.

Such intimate knowledge is especially crucial as the county and the city face the enormous challenge of coming up with as many as 10,000 units of affordable, or workforce, housing in the next decade. This is housing for everyone ranging from firefighters to biotech workers and corporate communications officers like McDaniel, a Winston-Salem State University graduate. Affordable housing is also needed for senior citizens and those with mental and physical challenges.

The county’s homeownership program has been instrumental in helping workers buy homes, often their first ones. WSSU’s Center for the Study of Economic Mobility (CSEM) has extensively studied the program, estab-

lishing its efficacy. Among the CSEM findings:

*Every $1 spent by the county results in $5.70 in home equity for owners in their houses for nine years.

*The program has contributed $5.9 million to the county tax base.

*Since 2008, losses to the county from foreclosures by clients make up only a very small percentage of the program.

*The current aggregate

net equity for program clients is $3.7 million.

*The current average net equity is $53,208. The clients are building wealth.

*Clients purchase homes in neighborhoods with significantly lower crime rates than those of their previous ones.

A CSEM documentary film, Home Stretch, https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=eBMlfyIHlDI,

More than 300 young Black lawyers and law students span Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, South Caro lina, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Texas to host vot er protection education sessions in partnership with Black community institutions voters know and trust.

Photo courtesy of Tonya McDaniel

County Commissioner Tonya McDaniel in front of her house she bought through the homeownership program.

details the homeownership program. Diana Greene directed and produced the documentary. Tom Green served as a producer and editor. CSEM director Craig Richardson served as executive producer

The county homeownership program is plagued by the lack of affordable housing. It has a waiting list of more than 100 qualified participants who are waiting to buy a home.

McDaniel does not have solutions to meeting that gap. Aside from its homeownership program, the county has traditionally left the challenge of affordable housing to the city, which continues to move slowly on the challenge. McDaniel says the county, the city, businesses and nonprofits should work together for solutions.

Her story underscores the importance of the county program, and of

finding ways of upscaling it and other workforce housing initiatives, such as Habitat for Housing of Forsyth County.

In 2009, she was at Winston-Salem State, working as a paralegal. She was the single mother of three teenage children. She was renting a house in southern Winston-Salem for $1,000 a month. At the downtown library, she heard about the county program. She signed up, taking Individual Development Account classes at the nonprofit Experiment in Self-Reliance (ESR). There, she learned financial management, including budgeting and saving.

McDaniel praises the work of Bianca Green, then her success coach at ESR and soon to become the loan officer for the homeownership program.

“Bianca speaks the language,” McDaniel said. “Back in the day, when I was very young, I just needed someone to break

the financial issues down and help me understand them, and she did.”

Green said: “Ms. McDaniel successfully graduated from the IDA program, continuously budgeted and saved beyond the program-savings goal. Not coincidentally, by the time she graduated from the IDA program, I had transitioned to the role of the housing loan officer.

As the loan officer, I was grateful to be involved in the home-buying process when Ms. McDaniel found her home.”

In 2010, McDaniel bought a three-bedroom house on Cheshire Woods Drive for about $85,000. She put $2,500 on the down-payment and the county matched it. Her mortgage payments worked out to $525 a month, almost half of what she was paying in rent. The timing of her purchase was fortuitous. Just as she closed on the house, the

owner of her rental house was served with a foreclosure notice.

Twelve years later, she is still in the house. She built her equity in it as she earned a master's degree, and is working toward her doctorate degree in policy and law. She finished raising her last two children in the home. She endured the gunshot death of her third child, when he was an adult living outside the home.

The home endures as the family’s rock, which she will pass on to her children and grandchildren. “It was very important to me to build a legacy for them,” she said. According to Zillow, the market value of McDaniel’s home is now around $199,000. “That’s a nominal percentage increase of nearly 134%,” said CSEM Research Manager Zach Blizard.

“You can’t beat the county homeownership program,” McDaniel said.

Rooted in Race pop-up exhibit opens on October 29 at Union Station

SUBMITTED ARTICLE

Triad Cultural Arts (TCA), The City of Winston-Salem, and The Winston-Salem Foundation are proud to present the exhibit, Rooted in Race: A Community’s Journey to Integration, which will be on view at the historic Union Station, 300 S. Martin Luther King Jr Dr. in Winston-Salem, Oct. 29 through Nov. 12.

Rooted in Race began as a virtual exhibit, a collaboration among TCA and the Foundation to provide the community with an interactive way to reflect

on the human impact of school desegregation and efforts to improve school quality in Winston-Salem.

Rooted in Race utilizes historical artifacts as well as oral histories from current and former WinstonSalem/Forsyth County Schools students and staff to provide a view along a historical path of efforts to deny and impede equality as well as initiatives to create greater equity in education.

The in-person exhibit will open on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include remarks from WS/FC School Su-

perintendent Tricia McManus and LaTida Smith, president of The WinstonSalem Foundation, as well as opportunities to experience the interactive exhibit, meet the interviewees, reflect, and take action.

Rooted in Race is open to the public at no cost.

Exhibit Schedule: SaturdaysOct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12 - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Weekdays –Thursday, Nov. 3 & Nov. 10 - 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4 & Nov. 11 - 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Tours for school groups and organizations

Walk

“We need to find ways to grow it and other housing initiatives.”

To read three CSEM working papers on the program, please go to Working Papers - Winston-

Salem State University (wssu.edu).

John Railey, raileyjb@ gmail.com, is CSEM’s writer-in-residence.

are available by emailing triadculture9@gmail.com for more information and scheduling.

When it comes to my sports predictions, I like to gloat when I am right and most often I am. But when it comes to one particular pick, I have to admit that it’s not looking too good for me a third of the way through the NFL season.

The AFC West had all the makings of one of the best divisions we have seen in the last 20 years. Nearly all of the teams upgraded talent on either side of the ball and with the extra playoff spot, I thought this division had the chance to have all four teams make the playoffs. One team is looking like they are on their way to the playoffs, one team is kind of a roller coaster, and the other two teams have totally underperformed.

Let’s start with the team that has lived up to the hype and that is the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs are 5-2 on the year and coming off of a dominant win against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. They are starting to click on all cylinders and once again look like they are well on their way to winning the division.

The Chiefs started off the year with two good wins against the Arizona Cardinals and the Chargers. With the loss of Tyreek Hill, many people thought their offense would take a major step back. Their offense is not as dynamic as it was in the past, however, Travis Kelce and the pieces they picked up in the offseason have been carrying the load. And let’s not forget that they still have Patrick Mahomes.

Kansas City has losses against the Indianapolis Colts and the Buffalo Bills and also have wins against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Las Vegas Raiders. Besides the loss to the Colts, I don’t think head coach Andy Reid and the Chiefs could have asked for a better start.

Mahomes is off to a good start to the season. Through six games, he has 1,736 yards, 17 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. The only problem I see for the Chiefs is their lack of a consistent running game. Clyde Edwards-Helaire has not been that dynamic in the running game, so the Chiefs need to figure out that part of their offense as the season progresses.

The Chiefs are everything I thought they would be. I knew they wouldn’t be as explosive without

BY TIMOTHY RAMSEY THE CHRONICLE

Hornets unveil ‘Let’s Fly’ as 2022-23 season theme

CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Hornets recently unveiled “Let’s Fly” as their theme for the 202223 season, launching the tagline with a video that was released across the franchise’s social platforms and on hornets.com.

A progression of the previous “All Fly” slogan, “Let’s Fly” is meant to be a rallying call inviting fans and the community to join the team as it continues to ascend, both this season and moving into the future as the Hornets spread their wings and take the next step in their growth. The term also references the club’s style of play – an uptempo, attacking style with swarming intensity – as well as the organization’s commitment to bringing the community together to lift up the city of Charlotte and its citizens.

The introductory video welcomes viewers to “Flight 704” and features visuals and metaphors designed to portray preparing for flight and the energy and excitement that come

along with it. The video is a collaboration between the Hornets and local video editor Christian Duprez. Local artist Reuben Vincent, a Charlotte native who is signed to Jamla Records and Roc Nation, wrote and performed the narration.

The Hornets opened the 2022-23 season last Wednesday with a 129102 road victory over the San Antonio Spurs. The Hornets play at home on Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. Singlegame tickets can be purchased online at hornets. com or ticketmaster.com, or via the Hornets App.

Hive Society Memberships and Pick 23 Plans

for the 2022-23 season are on sale now in the upper level. Lower-level Hive Society Memberships are sold out. Starting at $14 per game on average, Hive Society Memberships include all 43 regular-season and preseason games and feature some of the best benefits in professional sports. Pick 23 Plans start at $16 per game on average and include the first and last regular-season home games and 21 games of the purchaser’s choice, along with playoff priority and interest-free payment plans.

For more information, call 704.HORNETS or visit hornets.com/tickets.

Carolina University Bruins now 19-7 with win last weekend

CHARLOTTE - Carolina University women's volleyball played against Johnson & Wales University on Saturday, Oct. 23. The Wildcats were 12-16 on their season coming into the match facing the Bruins, who were 18-7.

CU defeated JWU on Oct.

Walker had a match-high four aces and recorded 12 digs. Kamra King recorded a match-high 29 assists. Precious Heaven Hollins had a match-high 6.0 blocks.

The Bruins, now 197, set the record for most wins in a season. They

now 19-7,

The

10 in a tri-match at Toccoa Falls. The Bruins started off in the lead with a score of 25-18 in the first set.

CU remained dominant offensively and rolled in the second and third sets for a final score of 3-0.

Giulia La Longa had a match-high 18 kills, followed by Chiara Mottola with 12 kills. Rebecca

will return home on Saturday, Oct. 29, to play against Regent University and Bob Jones University in a tri-match. These NCCAA regional opponents will bring different challenges to the court.

Come support the women's volleyball team on their home court or watch the LiveStream.

Also Religion, Community News, For Seniors Only, and Classifieds

Timothy Ramsey Sports Columnist

The season is not over, but one of my picks may be shaky

The youngsters in the local flag football league are putting it all on the line as they hunt for a championship. They are in the midst of their playoffs and as the old saying goes: “Anyone can win on any given Sunday.”

Photos by Alphonso Abbott Jr.

Submited graphic

Submitted photo

Bruins,

set the record for most wins in a season.

(8-1) 370

Honorable Mention: Central Davidson (8-1), Mt. Tabor (72), Randleman (7-2), N. Moore (9-0), Cummings (5-3)

For the past 17 years, members of The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem have worked together to make a difference in the lives of women and girls in our community.

Over the past few years, we all have endured significant challenges. Yet through it all, we’ve seen steadfast volunteerism, civic engagement, and philanthropy. Our members, volunteers, and grantees are engaged, showing up in our work stronger than ever, and eager to serve the needs of our community more deeply.

17 th ANNUAL LUNCHEON CELEBRATION

Honorable Mention: Wake Forest (8-1), A.C. Reynolds (8-1), Chase (9-0), E. Lincoln (9-0), Crest (7-2)

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

After two years of celebrating virtually, we are thrilled to be able to gather in person again this fall. For those who have joined us in the past, you can look forward to this year’s luncheon experience looking a little bit different. Our supporters will be able to more purposefully reconnect with each other in smaller group settings and speak directly with some of our 2022 grant recipients to learn about their incredible impact.

You won’t want to miss this learning opportunity!

The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem is an advised fund of The Winston-Salem Foundation.

Richard Wayne Wood Sunday School Lesson

Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch

Scriptures: Acts 8:26-39

By the end of this lesson, we will:

*Explain the connection between Philip’s sharing of the gospel and its universal availability;

*Reflect on our openness to people who differ from us;

*Develop strategies to make our churches more open and inclusive.

Background: Philip is the only one in the New Testament specifically given the title “The Evangelist” (Acts 21:8). He is best known for his encounter with the Ethiopian treasurer. The Ethiopians (Heb. “Cushite”) were considered by Israel as “… far-distant, uncivilized, and despised black race of Ethiopians …” (International Critical Commentary). Cush was an African nation on the southern border of ancient Egypt. The Ethiopian people were known for their height and smooth black skin as well as their military prowess. Scripture says that God cared about the Ethiopians and promised that they would be among those who came to Jerusalem to worship the true God. (Isaiah 56:8, Zephaniah 3:9-10). The Ethiopian treasurer became the first known witness to Africa.

Lesson: Philip Obeys the Spirit (Acts 8:26-29). “… Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza” (verse 26). Philip has returned to Jerusalem from Samaria and is now directed by an angel of the Lord to go to a desert area. Philip is open and obedient to divine guidance “... So he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship” (verse 27). Philip’s path crosses the route of the Ethiopian proselyte to Judaism returning home from worship in Jerusalem, reading scripture. Though he is described as a eunuch, it is likely that in his case eunuch refers to his position as treasurer or government official rather than as an emasculated male slave. As a physical eunuch he would have been denied access to the Temple. “… was returning, (the distance one way more than seven hundred miles and would take at least thirty days by chariot). “… he was reading Isaiah the prophet” (verse 28). The custom during that time was to read Scripture aloud. He was evidently hungry for God’s Word.

Philip Witnesses in the Spirit (verses 29-35). “Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go near and overtake this chariot” (verse 29). Philip showed real boldness in doing what the Spirit told him to do. He heard and recognized the Scripture of Isaiah and asks – “Do you understand what you are reading?” (verse 30). The correct interpretation of the scripture was of vital importance because the Old Testament provides the framework for understanding Jesus and was an integral part of the apostolic

BY JAMES WASHINGTON THE DALLAS WEEKLY/NNPA MEMBER

I wish I could remember where I heard this. But it is worth repeating for those of you who know what real pain feels like. A televangelist, whose name I can’t remember, reminded me of the powerful nature of words that sometimes strike at your very heart.

He said, “In order for someone to really hurt you, he or she has to be close enough to you to kiss you.”

Whoa! Now this immediately made me sit up and take notice as it should you. Beyond the biblical reference about Jesus and Judas, this is a pretty dynamic point of which people of faith should take note. Real pain comes from people and circumstances and issues that you really, really care about.

Life does not always encourage you to live with your guard down. But each of us, if we’re honest with ourselves, has done just that when we feel safe with those around us. It is that vulnerability that gives the kiss of death the power to crush your very being.

There is no pain like unexpected pain deliberately aimed at you when you’re not looking.

I find it ironic that as Christians we are sup-

posed to reveal to the external world our internal souls.

Those who see us should indeed see who we are and whose we are. It’s a very public declaration. Then, by how we live our lives, the world should know we belong to the body of Christ.

Irony might not be the best word to describe my example, but remember the ultimate kiss is the kiss of betrayal. The difference between you, me and Christ, however, is that Christ knew it was coming. As a matter of fact, not only did He know it was coming, Christ needed it to

fulfill His divine mission. It was a kiss that was part of a plan that saved the world.

We are the ones who are blindsided by kisses we wish we could have seen coming. Think back for a minute about that devastating kiss in your own life and I’ll bet you today that it gives you reason to have particular insight and perspective about this thing called testimony - yours.

It certainly does me. Maybe your kiss was part of a plan intended to save you. I know this may be difficult to hear because of the pain it caused you, but if you can possibly

reconcile the effect it had on you, with the life God planned for you, then perhaps the best is yet to come for you and me.

I don’t know about you, but because of past betrayal, I’ve learned that I cannot live a guarded life and expect God to heal my heart. Been there, done that. It doesn’t work. A closed heart can neither give nor receive and that includes the love from and of the Lord; just like a closed hand can neither give nor receive anything. I want to believe I can see Judas coming these days and as Christ did, accept his effort, as but another failed attempt to destroy my joy. So, the good news for today is, “Been there, bless that!”

Those closest to me today know this and my heart is open to them, as well as to you, should we ever meet. Everybody else can simply keep their lips to themselves.

May God bless and keep you forever.

James Washington is a father, husband, Christian and writer. James is also the owner and publisher of the multimedia company The Dallas Weekly. You can follow James on Twitter at @JAWS_215.

RELIGION CALENDAR

Thursdays and Saturdays

Free Meals

Christ Rescue Temple Church, 1500 North Dunleith Ave., will serve hot meals as part of the People Helping People Feeding Program. Meals will be served every Thursday and Saturday from noon until 1 p.m. at the church’s location. For more information, call 336-7229841.

Each Sunday

Worship services

Green Street United Methodist Church, 639 S. Green St., Winston-Salem, invites you to join online worship services on Sundays at 11 a.m., or in-person services at 8:45 a.m. The 11 a.m. service, which is available via Facebook and YouTube, is a celebration of the diversity of the human family, a no-frills service that is thoughtful, personal, and deeply spiritual. The 8:45 a.m. service is a quiet, contemplative space including prayer, scripture, preaching, and communion; masks and social distancing will be in effect in the sanctuary. Join us at www. greenstreetumc.org, on YouTube, or on Facebook.

Each Sunday Sunday service

Transformation Ministries will have service every Sunday at 10 a.m. We are located at 4880 Burnette Drive. Masks are required.

3rd Friday of each month

Women’s fellowship

The Antioch Baptist Church (ABC) Women, 5061 Lansing Dr., cordially invites all women to join us the third Friday of each month at 7 p.m. for conversation as we share and embrace each other in these challenging times. Join us via conference call. Dial in: 267-807-9601 Access Code:189545592#. Rev. Frederick L. Barnes, Jr. is the senior pastor. For more information, call 336-9923751.

Oct. 30

First Waughtown Baptist Church (FWBC)

First Waughtown Baptist Church (FWBC) will observe Family and Friends Day as Senior Pastor Dr. Dennis W. Bishop, Senior Pastor of (FWBC), delivers the morning message. We extend a special invitation to family members and guests to join us in worship. Front doors will open at 9:15 a.m. for screening, devotion, and announcements prior to the 10 a.m. service. Completed waiver forms and masks that cover the nose and mouth are required. The form can be submitted electronically on the FWBC website – www.firstwaughtown.org -click on RE-ENTRY 2022; printed copies are available in the lobby. Other in-person protocols and information about 6 p.m. virtual Sunday School are accessible via the FWBC homepage RE-ENTRY link. Persons who prefer to worship virtually can find the service on You-

Tube, https://www.youtube.com (First Waughtown); Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/FirstWaughtown/; and the First Waughtown website, https://www. firstwaughtown.org. (NOTE: Services are posted on a one-week delay.)

Oct. 30, Nov. 13

Missionary Friends and Family Day

The Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church will celebrate Missionary and Family and Friends Day on Sunday, October, 30, at our 11 a.m. worship hour. One and all are invited to share this special service with us. Pastor Paul W. Hart will bring a relevant word for this occasion .

Also on Nov. 13 at our 11 a.m. worship service, Pastor and Lady Hart will celebrate 17 years at Pilgrim Rest, 1905 N Jackson Ave. Please adhere to all COVID protocols and masks are required.

How to submit items to the Religion calendar: The deadline is Sunday at 11:59 p.m. to have all calendar items submitted for that week’s paper. Send your calendar items to news@wschronicle.com. You can also drop them off, Monday through Thursday before 4 p.m., or mail your items to Winston-Salem Chronicle, 1300 E. Fifth St., Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101; or send them via our website, www.wschronicle.com.

Elder

‘Been there, bless that.’

Submitted photo James Washington says “Been there, bless that,” when facing life obstacles.

Date: Thursday, December 1, 2022 @ 2:00 PM

by: 11-30-22 @ 5:00 PM We are soliciting subcontract bids for the following trades. Work may include, but not limited to: Asphalt, Boring, Cabling, Clearing and Grubbing, Concrete, Demolition, Doors, Electrical, Erosion Control, Excavation, Fencing, Grading, HVAC, Metal Fabrication, Minor Drainage, Pavement Markings, Photo and Video, Plumbing, Seeding and Landscaping, Signage, Traffic Control, Utilities 0920, and Utility Piping, along with any incidentals and materials necessary for construction to complete the project.

The work in this contract consists of the following modifications to the existing conventional treatment trains (two 12-MGD trains): installation of static mixers for chemical dispersion, modifications to the flocculation trains and installation of new flocculators on variable frequency drives, modifications to the sedimentation basins including installation of settling plate and sludge removal equipment. The project also includes installation of a drain pump station. Residuals treatment improvements will consist of modifications to the existing equalization basin, construction of a new residuals treatment basin with sludge removal equipment and plate settlers, recycle pump station and waste piping. The Daniel Clearwell improvements shall consist of structural repairs, interior lining installation, drainage improvements and membrane roof repairs and all other Work indicated in the Contract Documents. Volume 2 work will include construction of a perimeter fence and shall be included in the base bid.

The work performed under this Contract shall include, but may not be limited to: the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment and services, whether specifically mentioned or not, that is required to complete the Construction of the Work of the project. All requirements of the State of North Carolina and all pertinent administrative regulations shall apply to this project as if herein written out in full.

Please contact Daniel Lynch at dlynch@jrlynchandsons.com if you have any questions on the job link below.

The following Dropbox links will provide you with the digital Plans and Specifications: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/vcizmliwd4k1lo2/AACE1CI8QpHLrHCYoYAOLZ1ua?dl=0

You may view plans & specs at the following locations: JRL Office @ 314 S. Academy St. Pilot Mtn, NC. Also, Bidding Documents also may be examined at the following locations and All work will be in accordance with the Plans and Specifications which are on file in the office of “The City of Greensboro”, Contact Mr. Ted Barker, Engineering Division, 300 West Washington Street, Greensboro, North Carolina 27401, email:ted.barker@greensboro-nc.gov. (336433-7308) Phone (336-373-2338) Fax or email:michelle. walser@greensboro-nc.gov telephone: (336) 373-7966, fax: (336) 373-2338.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualifed as Executor of the Estate of James F. Day (22 E 1589), also known as James Francis Day deceased July 1, 2022, Forsyth County, North Carolina, this is to Notify all persons, firms, and corporation having claims against the Estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before January 25, 2023 this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent or estate shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 20th day of October, 2022.

Joseph Marron Executor for James F. Day, deceased 118 N. Sterling St. Morganton, NC 28655

The Chronicle October 20, 27 and November 3, 10, 2022

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualifed as Executor of the Estate of Teretha Millner (22 E 001605), also known as Teretha Beaty Millner, Teretha B. Millner, deceased February 15, 2021, Forsyth County, North Carolina, this is to Notify all persons, firms, and corporation having claims against the Estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before November 28, 2022 this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent or estate shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 29th day of September, 2022.

John Beaty Executor for Teretha Millner, deceased 2740 Reynolds Park Rd. Winston-Salem, NC 27107

The Chronicle September 29, and October 6, 13, 20, 2022

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualifed as Administrator of the Estate of Dennis Louis McClam, Jr. (21 E 2918), also known as Dennis McClam, Jr. Dennis Louis McClam deceased February 10, 2021, Forsyth County, North Carolina, this is to Notify all persons, firms, and corporation having claims against the Estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before January 9, 2023 this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent or estate shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 6th day of October, 2022.

Shirleen Hughes Administratorfor Dennis Louis McClam, deceased 3891 Pembroke Rd. Winston-Salem, NC 27106

The Chronicle October 6, 13, 20, 27, 2022

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Loretta Sue Steiner-McBride (22 E 2238), deceased on June 16, 2022, Forsyth County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before January 16, 2023, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 13th day of October, 2022.

Robert Donovan McBride Adminstrator for Loretta Sue Steiner-McBride, deceased 245 Petree Rd. Winston-Salem, NC 27106

The Chronicle October 13, 20, 27 and November 3, 2022

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualifed as Executor of the Estate of Alberta Baker Harvey (22 E 1884), also known as Alberta B. Harvey, Alberta Harvey, deceased October 29, 2020, Forsyth County, North Carolina, this is to Notify all persons, firms, and corporation having claims against the Estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before January 16, 2023 this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent or estate shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 13th day of October, 2022.

Aldeen Harvey Executor for Alberta Baker Harvey, deceased 775 West 14th Street Winston-Salem, NC 27105

The Chronicle October 13, 20, 27, and November 3, 2022

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualifed as Executor of the Estate of George H. Johnson, Jr. (22 E 2393), also known as George Haywood Johnson, Jr. , deceased December 3, 2021, Forsyth County, North Carolina, this is to Notify all persons, firms, and corporation having claims against the Estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before January 25, 2023 this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent or estate shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 20th day of October, 2022.

Sharon J. Buford Executor for George H. Johnson, deceased 2504 Treetop Lane Winston-Salem, NC 27101

The Chronicle October 20, 27, and November 3, 10, 2022

Spring/Wachovia Hill Apartments Managed by Community Management Corp.

1 Bedroom Units conveniently located in Winston-Salem, 62 yrs of age or older Handicapped and/or disabled. Section 8 assistance available. Income restrictions apply. Call 336-251-1060. 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Mon. and Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Wed. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Medicare open enrollment sessions

The Annual Medicare Open Enrollment period will take place from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2022.

Annual enrollment assistance will be provided by volunteers and staff of the Shepherd’s Center of Greater WinstonSalem, the Forsyth County coordinating site for the North Carolina Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP). One hour appointments will be offered during the period subject to the availability of counselors. Appointments must be made by calling the Shepherd’s Center at 336-748-0217 during weekdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Oct. 27

Fall festivals

Five city recreation centers will hold free fall festivals from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27. Kids are invited to dress up in their Halloween costumes and come to the Little Creek, Polo Park, Martin Luther King, Jr., Sedge Garden and William R. Anderson centers. Those ages 3-10 must be accompanied by a parent. For more information call CityLink 311.

Oct. 29

Candy giveaway

On Saturday, Oct. 29, the Winston-Salem Police Department will partner with the Winston-Salem Police Foundation and Galilee Missionary Baptist Church to hold a free candy giveaway during the Fifth Annual Public Safety Drive-Through Fall Festival, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the church parking lot at 4129 Northampton Dr., Winston-Salem.

This is a drive-through event only; children will not be allowed to walk up. In addition to the candy distribution, a variety of public safety vehicles will be on display. Kids are encouraged to come in their Halloween costumes.

Nov. 4

Alzheimer’s walk

The Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter will be hosting Walk to End Alzheimer’s – WinstonSalem at Truist Stadium located at 951 Ballpark Way on Nov. 4. Checkin opens at 9 a.m. with an opening ceremony and walk at 10 a.m. To

sign up as a walker or Team Captain or to learn more about becoming a sponsor or volunteer of Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Winston-Salem, visit act. alz.org/WinstonSalem or call 800-272-3900.

Nov. 4

Pet clinic registration

There will be a Pet Vaccine & Microchip clinic on Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Cattle Barn at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds, 2511 Farmers Market Way Cattle Barn. Pre-registration is required. Registration for the clinic closes Nov. 4 or when all spots are full, whichever comes first.

NC Black Rep auditions

On Friday, Nov. 4, from 6-10 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 5, from 26 p.m., NC Black Rep will be hosting auditions for our annual production of “Nativity According to the Gospels.” To sign up for auditions and for additional information, please visit Ncblackrep.org/workwith-us/#auditions.

Nov. 6

Application deadline

The city is accepting applications for its Successful Outcomes After Release (SOAR) program through 11:59 p.m. Nov. 6. SOAR is a six-month program that provides gainful employment to returning citizens while supplementing the city's existing workforce.

Applicants must also pass a drug test, consent to a background check, be registered with selective service (males only) and be able to work 32 hours a week (Monday - Friday).

More information and an application link are posted at CityofWS.org/ SOAR. Interested citizens can contact Troy Sneed, 336-306-4320; troys@ cityofws.org.

Nov. 14

LTWS auditions

The Little Theatre of Winston-Salem will hold auditions for One Man, Two Guvnors by Richard Bean from 6:308:30 p.m. on Monday, November 14, at 419 N. Spruce Street in WinstonSalem. No appointment is necessary, and everyone is encouraged to audition. Phillip Powell will direct. There are roles available for 8+ men (ages 25+) and 3+ women (ages 2040). Additional details and

character descriptions are available at www.LTofWS. org/auditions.

Nov. 28

Virtual Medicare workshop

The Shepherd’s Center of Greater WinstonSalem is offering a virtual workshop for individuals turning 65 (as well as those who already have Medicare) to learn about the different insurance options available. The session will be held virtually via Zoom on Monday, Nov.28, from 3 - 4:30 p.m. through computer and telephone access. The session is provided at no cost. Because space is limited, reservations are required. Contact the Shepherd’s Center at 336-748-0217 or Info@shepherdscenter.org for more information or to reserve a seat.

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Send your calendar items to news@ wschronicle.com. You can also drop them off, Monday through Thursday before 4 p.m., or mail your items to Winston-Salem Chronicle, 1300 E. Fifth St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101; or send them via our website, www. wschronicle.com.

witness. Philip’s question opened the door for him to do as God commissioned His people. “How can I, unless someone guides me?” Was he not guided while in Jerusalem, maybe because of who he was? So, an invitation is extended for Philip to join him in his chariot. “The place in the Scripture which he read was this”: (Isaiah 53:7,8). This particular passage of Scripture was questioned even by Jewish religious experts. Some believed the slaughtered sheep represented Israel, others thought Isaiah was referring to himself, and others thought the Messiah was Isaiah’s subject. “I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?” (verse 34). “Then Philip opened his mouth and beginning at the Scripture, preached Jesus to him” (verse 35). Philip was able to tell the Ethiopian how the prophecies in Isaiah 53 described the sacrificial, sin-bearing work of the Messiah to come. Explain-

Picks

From page B1

Hill, but with the weapons they added to complement what they already had in place; it was only a matter of time before the team gelled together as a unit. It looks like another division title is in store for Kansas City.

The Los Angeles Chargers have been a head scratcher so far this year because I can’t quite figure them out. Granted they have been dealing with a few injuries, most notably to their star wide receiver Keenan Allen, but their record stands at only 4-3 after an embarrassing loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

They have been very inconsistent this season, with their lone bright spot being running back Austin Eckler. Other than Eckler, there has been little to cheer about consistently for the Chargers. The Chargers have not beaten any of the quality teams on their schedule and in fact, have a couple of puzzling losses against teams they should have beaten.

Even star quarterback Justin Herbert is off to somewhat of a slow start based on the standards he has set so far. Admittedly, he is dealing with a rib injury and Allen’s hamstring injury doesn’t help, but their offense just doesn’t quite look like it did last year. Herbert has thrown for 2,009 yards, 12 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. The Chargers have a favorable remaining schedule, so hopefully they can get on track, so my prediction doesn’t look that bad.

ing who Jesus is and what He has done for us is the essence of the gospel.

The Ethiopian Confesses Christ (verses 3639). There must have been a part of Philip’s preaching that included baptism –“See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” (verse 36). The Ethiopian was ready to respond to the gospel – he wanted to be baptized to declare his belief. “… If you believe with all your heart, you may.” – “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (verse 37). Philip asks for and receives a declaration of faith and proceeds to baptize the eunuch. “Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing (verse 39). Philip is transported supernaturally by the Spirit. This is a powerful confirmation to the eunuch and the entire caravan that Philip was God’s representative. The eunuch’s joy – “He went on his way rejoicing” - shows that his faith was in God, not in

I am not sure what is leading to this inconsistent play from the Chargers. They have continuity on the sidelines and have added some pieces on defense, so I can’t put my finger on why they have not played up to their talent level. I think they will be a playoff team considering Allen should be back to full health after the bye week.

Now when it comes to the Las Vegas Raiders, I really don’t know what to think. Coming into the season, I thought the Raiders would have one of the best and most explosive offenses in the league, with the addition of wide receiver Davante Adams. It has not worked out that way and the Raiders have limped out to a 2-4 record after seven weeks.

Vegas got out of the gates slow this season, losing their first three games. They then beat a bad Denver Broncos team, played Kansas City well but lost, and then beat the Houston Texans coming off of the bye week.

Running back Josh Jacobs and Adams have played very well, but surprisingly quarterback Derek Carr has not. Carr has been very up and down this season. He is only completing 63% of his passes, with 1,520 yards, 9 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. It feels like Carr has been overly targeting Adams to the detriment of his other weapons. Darren Waller and Hunter Renfrow’s stats have dropped dramatically from last year. I think getting them more involved will bode well for the team. They are not out of it yet, but I

Philip. (The UMI Annual Commentary 2021-2022, The MacArthur Study Bible, The Modern Life Study Bible, The Jesus Bible, The Tony Evans Study Bible and The Oxford Bible Commentary).

For Your Consideration: What is your impression of the Ethiopian eunuch? How does he represent black people?

Application: As believers we are to know the Scriptures so that we are prepared to help unbelievers properly understand the gospel, as well as help fellow believers grow in their faith. Commit to daily personal devotion, prayer, and Bible study. Select a quiet time and place to do an uninterrupted reading of and meditation on the Word of God.

FYI: Forsyth County Sunday School Union will meet “virtually” every third Sunday, at 3 p.m. with teaching and programs. You may join using the following “Zoom” credentials: ID 819 7872 9662, Passcode 787444, Phone: 1-301-715-8592.

don’t think the playoffs are in the Raiders’ future this season.

Lastly, it’s the Denver Broncos who currently sit at 2-5 on the season and starting quarterback Russell Wilson was benched last week due to multiple injuries and possibly bad play. After his trade from the Seattle Seahawks during the offseason, Wilson signed a five-year extension with the Broncos through the 2028 season worth $245 million and includes $165 million guaranteed.

Wilson has put up some of the worst numbers of his career so far this year. His numbers are 1,442 yards passing, with only 5 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. With the weapons he had at his disposal to start the season, I never thought Wilson’s numbers would look so pedestrian. I know the injuries have contributed to the bad numbers, but I think it’s more to do with the system they run in Denver. I am not sure it matches Wilson’s improv style of play. I don’t think the Broncos will be “letting Russ cook” anytime soon and I think that means the same for their playoff hopes as well. No playoffs for Denver.

All in all, I wasn’t totally off base with my predictions. I think I overvalued some of the additions some of the teams made during the offseason. We still have a long way to go and things can change at the drop of a hat. With that being said, I feel confident that the Chiefs and Chargers will make the playoffs, while the Raiders and Broncos will fight for finishing above .500.

I am honored to have served Forsyth County, NC as Sheriff for the last four years. Everything that we promised in the first run for election, we have delivered. From 21st Century Technology to building bridges within the community, from leveraging resources to maximize our capabilities to collaborating with both entity and grassroots leaders - our work has created a formidable blueprint that is making an impact not only in our county but around the state of North Carolina. As your Sheriff, the Office of the People has made strides, broken many barriers, and elevated law enforcement in Forsyth County in many ways. We are just getting started. I ask for your vote in 2022. Most immediately, I ask for your financial support to run this race and win. Donate Today at bit. ly/DonateKimbrough2022.

Older couple to celebrate first Thanksgiving in their own home

HABITAT FORSYTH

Vernell and Charles Springs are experiencing some of the best times of their lives at the ages of 65 and 67. After many years of renting, they recently became Habitat homeowners.

Their home was made possible because Dyeann Jordan, who did not know the couple at all, decided to sponsor a Habitat house for her 85th birthday last spring. Her family and friends came together to raise money for the house materials and to help build it.

It all started last spring when Dyeann was thinking about what to do to celebrate her 85th birthday. The ways in which many others celebrate – with a party or a trip – didn’t interest her. Instead, she wanted to do something for others.

She had been part of Habitat builds in the past through her church, Centenary United Methodist in Winston-Salem, so she decided to sponsor a Habitat house. She and her husband Henry made a lead gift and sent letters to their families and friends, asking them to contribute to the project as Dyeann’s birthday gift. They have so far raised $80,000 and any funds beyond what is needed for materials for the Springs’ home will go toward Habitat’s repair program. This program provides critical home repairs and aging-in-place modifications for residents - many of

Events or meetings:

them seniors as well - who cannot otherwise afford them.

“The whole experience turned into something so much bigger than I ever expected,” Dyeann said. “Our whole family got involved – our children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews. They came to Winston-Salem from as far away as Houston and Boston to help build. It was such a wonderful thing for our family, and we get to help Habitat and Vernell and Charles at the same time. It is a win-win for everybody. Henry and I normally like to give anonymously, but we decided it was worthwhile to tell our story if it will inspire others to do something like this for others.”

The Springs’ house is in the Boston Thurmond neighbor-

*Medicare Open Enrollment period will take place from Oct. 15-Dec. 7. Enrollment assistance will be provided by volunteers and staff at the Shepherd’s Center of Greater Winston-Salem, the Forsyth County coordinating site for the North Carolina Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP). One hour appointments will be offered during the period subject to the availability of counselors. Appointments must be made by calling the Shepherd’s Center at 336-748-0217 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

*Dial M for Murder presented by Stained Glass Playhouse, Nov. 4-5, 11-12 and 18-19 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 6, 13 and 20 at 3 p.m. All performances will be held at Stained Glass Playhouse, 4401 Indiana Ave. Tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and teachers, and $12 for students. For more information, visit www.stainedglassplayhouse. org/dial-m-for-murder/.

*ELECTION DAY. VOTE! Polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. For information, visit https://www.forsyth.cc/Elections/.

*AARP chapter meeting will meet on Nov. 8 (second Tuesday of each month) at Senior Services, 2895 Shorefair Drive. For information about the local AARP chapter, email Alberta Powell at powellalberta0@gmail. com. Open to all seniors age 50 and above with an AARP membership.

*Aging Well series presented by Wake Forest Baptist Sticht Center for Healthy Aging & Alzheimer’s Prevention, (the second Tuesday of each month) will be held on Nov. 8 at 5:30 p.m. virtually online. The webinar includes a cooking segment by a local chef, a tour of a local place of interest, and an educational session on a health topic. To register and receive the link to access the program, email bhealth@wakehealth.edu .

*Aging & Mental Health series presents “Hoarding and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder” on Nov. 14 at 1 p.m. at Brown and Douglas Recreation Center, 4725 Indiana Ave. For more information or to register, email serenam@cityofws.org or call 336-661-4987.

*Free admission to Reynolda House, Nov. 15, 3-7 p.m. Guests can enjoy all of the museum’s exhibits and stroll the gardens and visit the Village. For more information, visit www.reynolda.org/visit/calendar/reynolda-onthe-house-2/.

*Adult Children of Aging Parents meeting, (third Tuesday), will be held Nov. 15 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/1623251384697687. All are welcome, but the focus will be on the needs of adult children who are caring for their aging parents. For more information, visit www. ACAPcommunity.org and look for Winston-Salem under the “Find your chapter” tab, or join our Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1623251384697687.

*40+ Stage Company “Whittlers’ Bench,” an original work by local playwright David Ratcliff, opening on Friday, Nov. 11, in the Mountcastle Forum at the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts. The show will run for two weekends, Nov. 11, 12, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinee on Nov. 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. There will be a playwright’s talk back after the Nov. 13 show. For ticket information, visit intothearts.org/events-info or call the box office at 336-747-1414. Tickets are also available at the door.

*The Winston-Salem Symphony presents Cirque de la Symphonie, A Carolina Christmas, on Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 27 at 3 p.m at Reynolds Auditorium, 300

hood, not far from where the Jordans live at Arbor Acres United Methodist Retirement Community. “Mrs. Dyeann is a jewel,” Vernell said. “I am so, so grateful for her, that it was her desire to build a Habitat home for her 85th birthday, and that we were chosen to be the homeowners.”

Like many families, Vernell and Charles have been caught up in the issues caused by a lack of affordable housing. Earlier this year, their landlord raised their rent beyond what they could afford. “We had lived there 13 years, never been late on a payment,” Vernell said. While they waited for their Habitat home to be finished, they temporarily moved in with her daughter, Brandi Baker, who is also a Habitat homeowner.

They probably would have never become homeowners had it not been for Brandi, who insisted they apply to Habitat, Vernell said. The mortgage payment on their Habitat home will be about half of what they were paying in rent, allowing them to put money into savings. Vernell said she learned a lot in the homeownership and financial literacy classes that all Habitat homeowners are required to take as part of the program. “Habitat has given us a new beginning, and I’m so grateful for it. Finally, we will be able to invest in US

eventually divorcing.

One day 15 years ago, Vernell went to the emergency room because she had a bad headache. There was Charles, who was there because of back pain. The two rekindled their relationship and finally got married. “He said, ‘You got away from me one time. I’m not going to let you get away from me again,’” Vernell says with a laugh.

Both spent much of their lives taking care of others, through bad relationships and financial and health setbacks, Vernell says. “All my life, I’ve

rather than someone else.”

Both Winston-Salem natives, Vernell and Charles met decades ago when both worked at Morrison’s Cafeteria. Charles asked Vernell to marry him then, but she wasn’t ready. Each ended up marrying other people, then

June Senior Events Calendar:

Hawthorne Road. Experience high-flying holiday delights and death-defying routines performed by accomplished acrobats and some of the most original talents ever seen.

Senior centers, recreation and community centers and other organizations:

Shepherd’s Center of Greater Winston-Salem, 1700 Ebert Street:

Some of the ongoing Shepherd’s Center activities are listed below. Call the Shepherd’s Center at 336-748-0217 for information. Contact Kristin Larson at klarson@ shepherdscenter.org to register and for Zoom meeting information. More of their programs, including those on off-campus sites, can be found on their website at www. shepherdscenter.org.

*Mondays 10-11 a.m., line dancing for fun and fitness with Brenda Holcomb. $7 per class. Meets on the upper level. Please arrive by 9:15 a.m. as class begins promptly at 9:30 a.m.

*Tuesdays, 12-1 p.m., Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention with Wanda Patterson. $2 donation.

*Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m., The Shepherd Center Singers. Donations accepted. Please contact Carmina Jenks at pegjen2@gmail.com to join.

*Wednesdays, Fellowship and Games, 1:30-4 p.m., meets on the lower level.

*Wednesdays, 1:30-4:00 p.m., Artistic Expressions. Bring your art/craft projects to work on; some coloring supplies available.

*Way Back Wednesdays at 2:30 p.m. with Paul McCraw, a local historian and retired history teacher, who will discuss local and world history and relate it to today’s events. Via Zoom.

*Thursdays, 12-1 p.m., Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention, forms I and II with Wanda Patterson. $2 donation.

*Thursdays at 1 p.m., Game Day with Fay and Kristin. We play different games every week, such as Boggle, Scattergories, Trivia, Pictionary and more. Come join the fun! We ask that you please arrive by 1 p.m.; once the game begins you will not be able to join. Via Zoom.

*Thursdays, 1:30 – 4:00 p.m., Chess with Paul Sluder.

*Thursdays at 3 p.m., Thinking Outside the Box Discussion Group. Meets in person on lower level.

Mary Alice Warren Community Center, 7632 Warren Park Drive, Lewisville:

The classes below are presented by Shepherd’s Center of Greater Winston-Salem:

*Writing Stories from your Life - Every second Monday from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

For additional classes held at this center, visit https:// lewisvillenc.net/MAWCC and click on Classes Offered.

Brown & Douglas Active Adult Center, 4725 Indiana Avenue: Various activities for seniors. Contact Serena Mumford at 336-661-4998 or email serenam@cityofws.org for more information.

*Monday through Friday, TechWise. Get help with all your digital devices. Call Serena for appointment.

*Mondays and Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m., yoga.

*Tuesdays, noon, Active Living Every Day

*Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m., chair exercises.

*Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Tai Chi

*Wednesdays, 1 p.m., Chair volleyball

*Thursdays, 9 a.m., Nature Walk & Talk

*Thursdays, 5 p.m., T.O.P.S. weight loss class

*Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., Let’s Jam with Jamita step

aerobics

been a giver. I never asked anyone for anything. But in my later years, God has given me so many beautiful people in my life. Every person I have met at Habitat has been wonderful.”

To learn more, visit habitatforsyth.org.

*Fridays, 1 p.m., Game Day - Corn hole, golf putting, various games

Salvation Army Senior Center, 2850 New Walkertown Road:

*Tuesdays, 10 a.m., line dancing

*Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m., chair yoga

*Tuesdays, 11 a.m., chair volleyball

*Wednesdays, 11 a.m., drumming exercise

*Wednesdays, 12 p.m., spiritual development

*Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m., REACHE Program

*Thursdays, 10 a.m., hand bells music

*Thursdays, 11 a.m., educational program

*Thursdays, 12 p.m., Lunch (please sign up by calling Captain Raquel Lorenzo at 336-499-1196)

Carver School Road Public Library, 4915 Lansing Drive:

*First Tuesday Get Together, Sept. 6, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., arts, crafts and seasonal cards, hosted by Sandra Smith.

*Adult games the last Thursday of each month, Sept. 29, 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Come play cards, board games and dominos and make new friends!

Humana Neighborhood Center, 1045 Hanes Mall Blvd. Call 336-293-0122 to register as space is limited.

(Note: The center will be closed Nov. 23-25 for the Thanksgiving holiday.)

*Tuesday, Nov. 8 & 22, 10-11 a.m., Get help with your technology

*Tuesday, Nov. 15, 10-11 a.m., Thanksgiving Bingo

*Tuesday, Nov. 15, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Popcorn and a movie, “American Underdog” (2021)

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Popcorn and a movie, “Dog” (2022)

Tuesday, Nov. 29, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Popcorn and a movie, “The Final Year” (2017)

*Wednedays, 9:15-10 a.m., SilverSneakers strength and balance

*Wednesday, Nov. 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m., chair volleyball

Wednesday, Nov. 1, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Popcorn and a movie, “Unchartered” (2022)

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Popcorn and a movie, “Horizon Line” (2021)

Wednesday, Nov. 16, 10:30-12:30 a.m., Food and Mood: What’s the Connection? Presentation and cooking demo.

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Empowered Relief!

*Thursday, Nov. 3, 10-11 a.m., Anxiety: Managing Worries and Fears

*Thursday, Nov. 10, 10-11 a.m., Simple changes for managing high blood pressure

*Thursday, Nov. 10, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Battling the aging brain

*Thursday, Nov. 17, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Birthday Celebration and trivia

Note: The Humana Neighborhood Center will be closed Nov. 23-25 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

If you have an item for the Seniors Calendar, please email news@wschronicle.com and put Seniors Calendar in the subject line. Items must be submitted by the 20th of the preceding month for the next month’s issue.

Submitted photo

Vernell and Charles at their home dedication

Dyeann and Henry Jordan at the dedication of the home they raised money to build

Halloween tricks or treats come along only once a year, but the consequences of financial decisions usually last far past the next spooky holiday. Options that seem good on the surface, if not handled properly, can have longlasting negative consequences.

To understand how a seemingly good financial move can work against you, Financial Pathways of the Piedmont encourages us all to review the following to see if their actions are resulting in a welcome financial treat or a trick to be avoided.

*Discontinuing the use of credit

Treat: Living on a cash basis means that you never overspend or pay interest on your purchases. Typically, people who pay with cash save 20% over those who charge their goods and services.

Trick: At some point in their life, most people will need access to credit and creating a thick and positive credit file is a good thing. To do so, it is necessary to have at least three open and active lines of credit.

*Automatic bill paying

Treat: Arranging for your payments to be sent to creditors before the due date means you’ll never

ble, and internet services.

Trick: If you use the savings from the bundling of services for a larger, more expensive plan than you really need, it’s no savings at all.

*Co-signing on a loan Treat: You can help another person establish credit, rebuild credit, or purchase something beyond what they could on their own credit worthiness.

Trick: The co-signer and primary borrower are equally responsible for payment of the loan. As well-meaning as people are, things happen. Never co-sign on a loan unless you can afford to solely take over the payments.

*Balance transfers

Treat: With a lower interest rate, you can repay the debt sooner and save the money you would have paid with the higher APR.

Trick: Faulty thinking leads you to believe that since the interest rate on the new card is so low, it won’t hurt to charge a few things. Before you know it, the introductory period with the low rate has expired, and not only is your original balance not paid off, but it’s higher than when you began.

*Reward Cards

Treat: You can earn miles, airline points, or even cash back with reward cards.

Trick: Reward categories often change each

less plastic in your wallet equals fewer temptations to spend.

Trick: Closing an account will lower your total credit line, potentially making your debt ratio worse. Further, you’ll lower the longevity factor of your credit score.

*Opting into overdraft protection Treat: You’ll avoid the embarrassment of having your purchase denied at checkout.

Trick: Overdraft protection is expensive, particularly for those who routinely overdraw their checking account. This false sense of security is only putting a Band-Aid

on the true financial problem: spending more than you make. Even if the overdrafts result from legitimate purchases such as food or medicine, it is a better option to get to the root of the continued financial distress and solve it.

*Freezing your credit file

Treat: A frozen credit file is a layer of protection against identity theft since no one can open a new account in your name without you first lifting the security freeze.

Trick: There may be fees associated with this service, and you may have to wait days for the ac-

count to be “unfrozen,” which can be inconvenient if you want your credit file to be immediately accessible for instant credit.

Others who may be denied access to your credit file include insurance companies, landlords, employers who need to obtain a background check, cell phone companies, and utilities.

*Purchasing extended warranties

Treat: An extended warranty can provide you with peace of mind.

Trick: Some items are inexpensive or have a very good track record, thus you don’t need to pay for a warranty on them. If the item under warranty does

break, you may be asked to jump through some difficult hoops to activate the warranty, or the warranty may not cover what you thought it did.

Please thoroughly research and fully understand the risks and benefits to any financial decision you make. Simply because an offer sounds appealing, doesn’t mean it is.

Don’t get spooked by your financial decisions! Reach out for help from a trained and certified counselor at Financial Pathways of the Piedmont: Call 336-896-1191 or email info@financialpaths.org. For assistance in Spanish, call 336-748-7031 or email lorena@financialpaths.org.

Affordable Senior Communities

Wachovia Hill

100 S. Spruce Street 336.251.1060 24

Cherry Hill Apartments 840 West 14th Street 336.723.7524 24

and laundry room

Alder’s Point 590 Mock St. 336.725.9021

Garden space, community room, computer lab, resident activities, laundry room, 24 hour on-call maintenance, exercise room, and beauty salon

Azalea Terrace

100 Azalea Terrace Ct. 336.723.3633

Community room, computer lab, resident activities, laundry room, and 24 hour on-call maintenance

Spring Hill

618 N. Spring St. 336.251.1060

24 hour on-call maintenance and laundry room

St. Peter’s Heritage Place 3727 Old Lexington Rd. 336.771.9028

Community room, computer lab, resident activities, laundry room, and 24 hour on-call maintenance

Country Village 201 Park Ridge Cir. 336.765.4354

Community room, computer lab, resident activities, laundry room, 24 hour on-call maintenance, pool tables, and hot tub

Assembly Terrace

3731 University Pkwy. 336.759.9798

Garden space, community room, computer lab, resident activities, laundry room, and 24 hour on-call maintenance

Spacious One-Bedroom Apartments for Seniors

Community Management Corporation takes pride in offering affordable, professionally-managed apartment communities for seniors

Managed By Community Management Corporation

Managed By Community Management Corporation

Eligible for Medicare? Here’s what you should consider when choosing a plan

BY KATHLEEN SCHWARZWALDER

As inflation causes us all to stretch our dollars, the majority of Americans – including North Carolina residents – are likely focused on finding the best prices without sacrificing quality. Healthcare can be expensive, so picking the right insurance plan that meets your individual or family needs can be criti-

compared with what beneficiaries pay in original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans are increasing in popularity every year.

Take time now to research your options. There are many new Medicare Advantage offerings this year, so it is worth taking the time to evaluate your options to find the best plan for your healthcare needs – and your wallet.

‘Every car has a story.’ Classic car display brings back memories at Fall Festival

BY JUDIE HOLCOMB-PACK

cars to come to the monthly cruise-in in Kernersville the third Saturday of the month from 3 – 8 p.m. at Main and Mountain Streets. Anyone can bring a car to display. Other activities at the Fall Festival included pumpkin painting, bingo,

Brown and Douglas Active Adult Center celebrated autumn with their annual Fall Festival on Friday, Oct. 14, with a variety of activities for attendees to enjoy. The display of classic cars by the

A Bold New Vision

We are excited to officially launch the Creative Connections Campaign to support our “Bold New Vision!” Watch the introduction of our newest project by visiting: bit.ly/boldnewvision Join us as we dream big and build the future Intergenerational Center for Arts and Wellness! To learn more and get involved visit ccc.seniorservicesinc.org

Why I Support the Challenge

Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, Britnee Tellez, knows first-hand the toll a dementia diagnosis can have on a family. In our latest blog post, she shares memories of her grandfather, “Tricky Rick” who lived with memory loss, and of her mother who stepped in to care for him.

Read her story to learn why supporting the Alzheimer’s Care Challenge is not just her jobit’s personal: bit.ly/TrickyRick

during the 2022 Alzheimer’s

An Evening to Support Alzheimer's Care

Senior Services is excited to announce that our 22nd Annual Evening for Alzheimer’s Care dinner and silent auction will be back in person on Friday, November 4, 2022.

The Evening for Alzheimer’s Care helps raise funds to provide scholarships for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to attend our award-winning Elizabeth and Tab Williams Adult Day Center.

Join us to find special treasures, get inspired, and help ensure participants and their families receive the assistance and care they need.

Visit seniorservicesinc.org/2022-efac for more information.

Did You Know?

Senior Services volunteers are incredible! They make a meaningful impact within our programs and change the lives of the participants they touch. We could not continue to serve seniors without an army of dedicated volunteers. Check out the Volunteer Impact Report at bit.ly/VolunteerImpact21 to see all the ways volunteers have made a difference in 2021-22!

Drive To Do More

This month, Jiffy Lube is partnering with Meals-onWheels!

From October 1 to October 31, customers who receive oil changes, tire rotations, or other vehicle maintenance will be able to donate $3 to Meals-onWheels at check-out!

Participate this month at Jiffy Lubes located on University Parkway or Stratford Road!