Oct-Nov-Dec 2017 by CIRCA Magazine

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f e s t i v e f ro n t p o rc h e S • s av o ry c h e e s e c a k e s • C a m e l l i a s – AU T U M N ’ S J E W E L • G R A N V I L L E H AU N T FA R M • i n v i t e fa l l i n s i d e ta i l g at i n g m v p • L I G H T I T U P F O R DA Z Z L I N G H O L I DAY S • W R I G H T FA M I LY C H R I S T M A S L I G H T S • b e yo n d t h e p o i n s e t t i a w r e at h s ac ro s s a m e r i c a • T H E S U G A R C O O K I E T R A D I T I O N • S T U F F T H O S E S T O C K I N G S • R E D E F I N I N G C O U R AG E • A N D M O R E

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Autumn nights, spooky sights, holiday bites, and twinkling lights. These all mean that fall is here – and after a summer of fun in the sun, it’s now time for crisp cool evening enjoyment, a little Halloween fear and fright, delicious Thanksgiving and Christmas treats and feasts, and some holiday sparkle and joy. Yes, autumn – in my opinion, the most wonderful time of the year – has arrived, and it’s time to celebrate all things fall. This issue of CIRCA Magazine is here to help you do just that. Starting with the first article, “Fall Fun In the Forest” – packed full of fun, family-friendly events to fill up your calendar the next few months – and continuing on the following pages, you will discover helpful hints, tips and tricks, and ideas and inspiration to help you navigate the season. Whether you’re hoping to be a gameday tailgating MVP; want to boast the most festive front porch on the street for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas; or are looking to brighten these holidays with dazzling light displays, we’ve got you covered. Or maybe you find yourself dreaming of how you can delight the holiday palates of friends and family. If so, be sure to read “Savory Cheesecakes” for an appetizing twist on a classic dish, and “Grandma’s Rolling Pin” for a tried and true sweet treat that’s not only full of deliciousness, but tradition as well. “Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy” offers suggestions for staying on a healthy track while enjoying all those holiday goodies, while “Happy Healthy Halloween” shows kids can indeed have both. “Kitchens – The Heart Of The Holidays” provides ideas for giving this favorite gathering spot a facelift so you can finally throw that Halloween party or host the family Thanksgiving dinner in the space of your dreams. “Stuff Those Stockings” details nifty gadgets and trinkets for all ages, so you’ll know just what to ask Santa for this year. “Beyond The Poinsettia” describes beautiful blooms that are perfect for holiday decorating. And “Driveable Destinations” offers up not one, but two quick trips this issue … if you dare to be scared this Halloween, then “Granville Haunt Farm” will be right up your alley, while “The Wright Family Christmas Lights” is an absolute must to get you in the Christmas spirit. I hope you enjoy these hints, tips, and ideas, as well as everything else that awaits you in this edition. And as always, please pay our wonderful and loyal advertisers a visit and let them know you saw them in CIRCA Magazine. And may you enjoy the season’s autumn nights, spooky sights, holiday bites, and twinkling lights.

Happy holidays, and I look forward to seeing you in 2018!

O C TO B E R • N OV E M B E R • D EC E M B E R 2017 6 Fall Fun In The Forest – Incredible Sights, Musical Nights, Fearful Frights, and Christmas Lights 8

Savory Cheesecakes – An Appetizing Twist To Amaze Throughout The Holidays

Festive Front Porches

The Camellia – Autumn’s Jewel

Fall Fun With Braces – Tricks For Navigating The Season’s Treats

Driveable Destinations – Granville Haunt Farm

Redefining Courage – How To Help Someone With Breast Cancer

Tailgating MVP

22 5 Ways To Invite Fall Into Your Home 24

Happy Healthy Halloween – Yes, Your Kids Can Have Both

Tips For Traveling With Fido

Kitchens – The Heart Of The Holidays

Light It Up For Dazzling Holidays ... From Halloween Through The New Year

Grandma’s Rolling Pin – Carrying On The Sugar Cookie Tradition

32 Driveable Destination – The Wright Family Christmas Lights 34 36

Wreaths Across America

Eating Out Without Going All Out – Healthy Restaurant Dining Hints

Donation Requests – A Path To “Yes”

Dry Eye 101 – Is The Condition Affecting The Quality Of Your Life?

Holiday Plants – Beyond The Poinsettia

Stuff Those Stockings

46 Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy – How To Stay On Track While Still Enjoying The Holiday Season 48 Falling Forward 50 Our Heritage Revisited – Where History And Memory Lie In Repose

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kent Lower CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rhonda Benvie Cheryl Nelson Anna Bolton Todd Nelson Jill Bright Amy Pierce Tiffany Brockmann REX Nutrition Services Vanessa Davis Monique M. Rogers Patti Fralix Jennifer Smart Dr. Jason Gladwell Nikki Speer Holly Hopkins Jimmy Tompkins Tina Mast Kelly Trimyer Samantha K. McPherson WakeMed Stacey Moritz Kasey Wright CONTACT INFORMATION BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC P.O. Box 1182 Wake Forest, NC 27588 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com www.circamagazine.com ADVERTISING SALES 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com MANAGERS Kent Lower & Mitch Lower Printed by Theo Davis Printing, Inc.

Nick Honeycutt 919.380.5949 • nhoneycutt@theodavis.com Publisher Photo by Christina Bowman Photography, LLC

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CIRCA Magazine is published quarterly by BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within; however, BallPointe Publishing & Design assumes no liability for accuracy or omissions.

FALL FUN IN THE FOREST INCREDIBLE SIGHTS, MUSICAL NIGHTS, FEARFUL FRIGHTS, AND CHRISTMAS LIGHTS BY ANNA BOLTON

ooking for family fun this fall? The Town of Wake Forest has an exciting lineup of free community events and affordable entertainment options scheduled through the end of the year. With no details to plan, supplies to purchase, or messes to clean up, town events and programs make it easy to meet your neighbors, make new friends, and support your community. From connecting with nature to enjoying your favorite holiday tunes, it’s all covered. So save these dates and get ready to enjoy a fun-filled fall in the Forest.

INCREDIBLE SIGHTS Fall Foliage Tours You’re invited to enjoy the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn while also learning about native trees during two “Fall Foliage Tours” on Wednesday, October 25 at E. Carroll Joyner Park (701 Harris Road). Urban Forestry Coordinator Jennifer Rall will offer free one-hour tours at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Parents and children of all ages are invited and no registration is required. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to meet at the information kiosk located adjacent to the Joyner Park parking lot. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “fall foliage.” Wake Forest Historic District Walking Tours The Town of Wake Forest will offer free Wake Forest Historic District Walking Tours during the fall. These tours will include areas along North Main Street, North Avenue, Front Street, and South Avenue. Along the way, each group will discuss the developmental and architectural history of the area, along with the significant men and women who lived in the homes. Pre-registration is required. For complete information, including dates and times, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “walking tours.”

The Luxuriant Sedans, a five-member band that blends the soul of blues with the energy of rock ’n roll, will perform on Saturday, October 7 at 8:00 PM. The second concert on Saturday, November 11 at 8:00 PM will feature Matt Phillips & The Back Pocket, a funkadelic band that adds a jazzy edge to soulful pop music. Advance tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Rockin.”

FEARFUL FRIGHTS Halloween Spooktacular The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department will sponsor its annual “Halloween Spooktacular” on Thursday, October 26, from 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM at the Flaherty Park Community Center (1226 N. White Street). This year’s festivities will include a costume contest, face painting, cupcake walk, pumpkin patch, and a variety of other ghostly games and activities. Free pumpkins will be given away (while supplies last). The best costumes will be featured on the Town’s social media pages, so get creative! This event is free and open to the public. Thank you to these generous event sponsors: Thompson Buick GMC; Vision Martial Arts; Birkner Insurance; Wells Family Dentistry; Mr. Roof of Raleigh; and Champion Windows, Sunrooms & Home Exteriors. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Halloween.”

MUSICAL NIGHTS Rockin’ the Forest Assembling some of the top musical acts in the area, Rockin’ the Forest offers local audiences a chance to discover first-rate performers in a variety of musical genres. This season, the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts will feature two exciting concerts. 6

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Wake Forest truly comes alive during the Christmas season, so we’ve assembled the complete list of holiday happenings guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit. For more information on any of the following holiday events, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Christmas in Wake Forest.” Lighting of Wake Forest Experience the wonder and magic of the holiday season at the annual “Lighting of Wake Forest” on Friday, December 1. Sponsored by Traditions and presented by Wake Forest Downtown, Inc., the tree lighting will take place in Centennial Plaza – the gateway to the Wake Forest Town Hall – located at 301 S. Brooks Street. The evening’s festivities will get underway at 6:00 PM with the lighting of the Town’s 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, followed by Santa Claus’ exciting arrival aboard a Wake Forest fire truck. The event will also include performances by local choirs, a children’s craft activity, complimentary “Pictures with Santa” in the town hall lobby, a Tri-Area Ministry food drive, and free hot cocoa and cookies (while supplies last). Downtown Holiday Open House Visit historic Downtown Wake Forest and experience a hearty dose of holiday cheer during the Downtown Merchant’s Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 2. Sponsored by Wake Forest Downtown Inc., the Downtown Holiday Open House begins at 10:00 AM and will include special offers and complimentary refreshments at participating shops and restaurants, live entertainment, a food drive to benefit Tri-Area Ministry, and fun-filled activities for kids and families. A variety of special events and activities will also be offered throughout the day at no cost. Free “Pictures with Santa” will be offered from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM at the Cotton Company Event Gallery (located at 306 S. White Street). This holiday event is free and open to the public.

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Wake Forest Holiday Artisans Market The Wake Forest Holiday Artisans Market will take place on Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM inside the Renaissance Centre in Downtown Wake Forest. Wake Forest ARTS and the Wake Forest Farmers Market are pleased to present the annual holiday market featuring handmade items in a wide range of prices.

Wake Forest Children’s Choir Holiday Concert The Wake Forest Children’s Choir, under the direction of Kasie Brooks, will present an evening of holiday favorites on Tuesday, December 12, at 6:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts. This event is free and open to the public.

Wake Forest Christmas Parade Celebrate the holiday season at Wake Forest’s largest community event. Widely considered one of our area’s most popular holiday spectacles, Wake Forest’s annual Christmas parade features over 100 colorful floats, four high school marching bands, entries from local businesses, churches, schools, and civic groups, and, of course, Santa Claus!

Always be the first to know about Town of Wake Forest announcements, programs, and special events by signing up for E-Notifier at www.wakeforestnc.gov/ enotifier.aspx, downloading the Town of Wake Forest app at www.wakeforestnc.gov/app.aspx, visiting the town’s website at wakeforestnc.gov, or following the town on social media @TownofWakeForest. 

Sponsored by PowerSecure and presented by Wake Forest Downtown, Inc., the parade takes place on Saturday, December 9, at 1:00 PM – rain or shine.

STAY CONNECTED!

Anna Bolton is the marketing and business relations specialist for the Town of Wake Forest. To learn more about town events, sponsorship opportunities, and how you can be involved, contact Anna at 919-610-4916 or abolton@wakeforestnc.gov.

GET IN GOOD WITH AN EXPERT Because I know the risks in the area, I’ll use my local expertise to help you choose the right amount of protection. And I’ll be there to help you as your coverage needs change. Call or stop in for a free, no-obligation Personalized Insurance Proposal today.

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CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

o I have the perfect thing for you! When you tell them what it is, you may get some raised eyebrows. But, after tasting it, they will be so busy going back for seconds – and probably thirds – that there will be no question about your decision on what to bring.

We have taken the sweet standard that everyone expects when they hear the word “cheesecake” and turned it on its head by employing the same base ingredients as a typical cheesecake – cream cheese and eggs. But, rather than filling it with sweet fillings and flavors, we incorporate ingredients that you would find in that bowl of tasty, but maybe not so pretty, dip. And instead of topping it with whipped cream and sweet bits, it gets a layer of luscious sour cream and is garnished with colorful veggies that speak to the delights that await the taster. Behold – the savory cheesecake! We are sharing the recipe for our best-selling cheesecake with you today … chili cheesecake. Savory cheesecakes are delicious, surprising, and beautiful to look at, and they freeze wonderfully for later use. So spend an afternoon making several and put them away for all your planned events this fall and holiday season. You will have a readily-available stunning gem to highlight any buffet table. Just be prepared to share the recipe with everyone who has a bite.

BY HOLLY HOPKINS

SAVORY

CHEESECAKES AN APPETIZING TWIST TO AMAZE THROUGHOUT THE HOLIDAYS So, over the next few months your calendar has pretty much filled up. You have been invited to a couple of Thanksgiving dinners, numerous holiday gatherings, and the New Year’s Eve bash you have been looking forward to for months. Not to mention the many football tailgates and that party thrown in for your dear friend who has a December birthday and just can’t be forgotten. What this means is you have lots of fun ahead, but you are also in need of a spectacularly delicious and stunningly beautiful tray of tasty “whatever” that will surely dazzle your friends and family, and leave them talking about it for months to come. 8

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CHILI CHEESECAKE Makes 5 two-pound cakes (each feeds 15-20 as an appetizer) – 6 pounds cream cheese (soft) – 12 eggs – 1 cup super spice (recipe following) – 1½ cup chiles – 8 cups cheese (mozzarella and cheddar mix) Place cream cheese in mixer with paddle attachment, and beat on medium speed until smooth. Add eggs 2 or 3 at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape mixing bowl often. Pull bowl off the mixer, add super spice, chilies, and cheese. Mix well. Cut parchment rounds, spray bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with nonstick spray, place parchment round on bottom, spray again, and include the sides. Add batter, tap the pan on a flat surface to spread it out, and get rid of any bubbles. Bake 15 minutes, turn, and bake 15 minutes more. The cheesecake is done when the center feels firm and springs back when you touch it. Let cheesecake cool completely. Turn it upside-down onto a serving tray – tap the bottom of the pan to get it to release. Peel the parchment off the top. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese on just the top of the cheesecake. Leave the cheesecake layer showing on the sides. Garnish the top with sour cream, sliced cherry tomatoes, some

of the green chiles, sliced black olives, scallions, and parsley or cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips for a great gluten-free delicacy. To freeze for later use, simply un-pan the cheesecake and wrap thoroughly in plastic wrap. When ready to use, remove from the freezer and let thaw for 2-3 hours in the refrigerator. Then plate and garnish.

CHEF MARIO’S SUPER SPICE – 4 tablespoons chili powder – 4 tablespoons paprika – 2 tablespoons ground coriander – 2 tablespoons garlic powder – 2 tablespoons Kosher salt – 4 teaspoons cumin (ground) – 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper – 2 teaspoons black pepper – 2 teaspoons diced oregano Mix all ingredients together until well blended. Makes a great seasoning for meat, veggies, soup, etc.  Holly Hopkins has spent many years working in and with food, starting off at her Grandma’s elbow, making wedding cakes and cookies galore. Since then, she has been a manager and business owner and is thrilled to be combining her passions for high quality food and superior customer service at Chef Mario’s. Please visit www.chefmario.com.

’tis the season

in WAKE FOREST

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Lighting of Wake Forest Wake Forest Town Hall

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Downtown Holiday Open House South White Street

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WF Holiday Artisans Market Renaissance Centre

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Wake Forest Christmas Parade South White Street

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WF Children’s Choir Renaissance Centre

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Holiday Concert

wakeforestnc.gov search “Christmas in Wake Forest” CIRCA Magazine

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go bold with a vibrant red or take a more subtle approach with a cool blue, changing the door color provides an instant update with little time or expense. Lining the walkway or adorning the porch stairs with planters that can be updated with the season’s freshest plant offerings is the first place I start when trying to give my home an exterior decorating facelift. During the fall months, you can plant mums in the season’s vibrant hues within these planters, or try stacking decorative pumpkins on top of each other in the containers for unique personality and variety. These alone can carry the front porch’s primary focus for several months and be incorporated into your Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas outdoor décor. On the porch stoop, try mixing in antique containers like an old watering can, wheelbarrow, or wooden crate and fill them with hay, mini pumpkins, colorful leaves, acorns, greenery, and more. Creating a little vignette with those items and a welcoming sign with your family name on it can offer a cozy nook to greet your guests during the upcoming holiday season.

BY KASEY WRIGHT

FESTIVE FRONT PORCHES

our front porch is like a warm welcoming hug to your home. It can set the tone for your whole house with its style, personality, and vibe. However, when it comes to decorating, it is often an area that is easily overlooked or forgotten about since owners typically don’t enter their home via the front door. This fall, while festooning your home for the season’s upcoming festive holidays, be sure to show your front porch some decorating love. There are so many things you can do to liven up your front porch space that can easily be changed out seasonally with a few small tweaks and festive touches. If you’re in need of a little inspiration to spread joy outdoors, look no further. Giving the front door a little pop of color is a tried and true way to make your home stand out amongst the crowd. Whether you 10

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As fall turns to winter, swap out the pumpkins, hay, and leaves for mini evergreen trees, twinkling white lights, a handful of oversized ornaments, or tons of regular-sized ornaments. A wintry wreath of iced branches and red berries really drives home the holiday feel. Browse your favorite décor stores for enamel holiday bowls or red tins to use as accents. Metal lanterns with holidayshaped cut outs like reindeer that glow when lit are a fun touch of inviting whimsy to add to the sidewalk, announcing that your home is the spot for holiday parties. Mason jars filled with Epsom salt and a candle offer up another simple and inexpensive way to line the steps and walkway – and surely wow your party guests – during festive holiday nights. Be open to using an item in a new way – like a drink tub filled with decorative and festive items instead of beverages; an old wire basket filled with branches, berries, and acorns; or simply stacking pumpkins atop an old chair. As you drive around looking at others’ holiday decorations, keep your eyes out for great ideas and then go home and add your own twist to it. Because front porches may be the first impression that visitors have of your home – whether while trick-or-treating on Halloween, gathering at your home for the big Thanksgiving feast, coming together to celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, or just popping in for a friendly visit – don’t forget to add a splash of holiday décor on yours, delighting guests’ senses and spreading joy and cheer.  Kasey Wright is the owner of AR Workshop Raleigh, offering handson graphic design and DIY workshops in a studio boutique located at 14460 Falls of the Neuse, Suite 175 in Raleigh. For more information and decorating inspiration, visit www.arworkshop.com/raleigh.

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BY TINA MAST

THE CAMELLIA

and hybrid varieties are also offered at nurseries, as well as tea camellias (and, yes, you can grow your own tea). Here are some tips for growing these beautiful plants.

AUTUMN’S

– LIGHT: Camellias are adaptable to a range of light conditions but they mainly prefer morning sun with afternoon shade or bright dappled light all day. Avoid hot, scorching afternoon

JEWEL

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and charm in your garden are also things of the past. But during the time of year when most plants are no longer

blooming, don’t fret – camellias are here to save the day. tunning and fabulous are two good words to describe camellias. Add easy-to-grow to that list, too. This classic southern plant features incomparable, often pristine flowers either in fall or late winter/early spring and has lustrous evergreen foliage. Flower colors range from sumptuous magenta, deep red, candy pink, smoky ruby, glowing white, and more. They make excellent accent plants, specimens, or low privacy screens. If you’re pondering adding some fall flowers to your landscape, look no further than the fallblooming sasanqua type camellias and their hybrids. Most will typically grow to about 8-12 feet tall, while dwarf varieties top out around five feet tall. Winter/spring blooming Japanese camellias 12

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sun locations for planting, especially those that are windy. Some camellias are more sun tolerant than others, typically the fallblooming sasanqua types. Those grown in sun usually look a bit sunburned while they are young. Those that tolerate it eventually become accustomed to their site. – PLANTING: Camellias like well-drained, acid soil with plenty of organic matter. Amend the soil when planting with a pine bark soil conditioner or Permatill, or a mix of the two such as Daddy Pete’s Plant Pleaser Plus Permatill. See the “Planting Guide for Trees & Shrubs” on our website’s “Garden Tips” page for specific directions and diagrams on planting. Never plant camellias so that the base of the trunk is below the soil line and do not permit soil or mulch to wash over the base of the trunk and cover it. Do mulch over the root zone area with your mulch of choice to a depth of 2”-3”. Camellias are also excellent container plants. Put plants that came in three or five gallon pots into half-barrel or 20”-24” pots. Use a planting mix that is heavy in pine bark fines or make a mix that is 50% regular fluffy potting soil and 50% pine bark soil conditioner. Avoid soil mixes with fertilizer already mixed in. – WATERING: Camellias need regular water for the first three years in the ground. Young plants can and will die on you if they get too dry. “Regular water” means watering enough to soak the rootball one to two times per week in spring and fall, and two to three times a week in summer for the first year. It’s good to water newbies during late winter dry spells, too. Once established, they can survive on natural rainfall. Old camellias are actually quite drought tolerant. – FERTILIZING: Fertilize up to three times a year (at least once), but take care not to overfertilize, as this can predispose the plants to winter injury. Use a complete, commercial plant food formulated for “acid-loving plants” such as Holly-tone, and don’t use more than called for on the label. Times to apply: early March, early May, and early July. – PRUNING: Prune after flowering. You can prune how you like to get the form you want. Cut back the top to make lanky shrubs bushier. Thin out the bottom to create a bare trunk and form a patio tree. Shorten lower branches to promote more upright growth. It’s always a good idea to remove any wood that is dead or weak. If plants become so dense that flowers have no room to open properly, thin the branches to open up the plants.  Tina Mast is communications director for Homewood Nursery & Garden Center and can be reached at 919-847-0117 or info@homewoodnursery.com. For more information about camellias, and to find the “Planting Guide for Trees & Shrubs,” please visit www.homewoodnursery.com.

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– Avoid chewy, sticky, and hard candies. Sweet treats like Starbursts, candy corn, gum, Tootsie Rolls, Gobstoppers, and Airheads may be Halloween go-tos, but it’s easy for them to become stuck between brackets or pop them off. – Ditch the caramel. Even if it’s in a soft candy bar, caramel is still sticky enough to cause serious damage. – Switch it up. Hershey’s Chocolate Bars and Kisses, plain M&Ms, 3 Musketeers, and gourmet chocolate bars are usually safe to eat. Reese’s Cups and Reese’s Pieces are great for the peanutbutter lover. – Make your own treats. If you’re throwing a holiday party, there are plenty of fun, sweet, crowd-pleasing, and braces-safe options from which to choose. Some of my top-picks include cookies and cupcakes (have your guests decorate these themselves in the party’s theme for added fun), pumpkin French Toast, pigs-in-ablanket, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. – Munch, don’t crunch! A few of my favorite fair foods are fried Oreos, barbecue sundaes, and funnel cakes. Avoid cotton candy, candy apples, and corn on the cob to ensure dental appliances stay safe and secure. You don’t want to leave all that fair fun to visit the orthodontist with a bracket emergency, do you?

HAPPY FALL, BRUSH THEM ALL! BY DR. JASON GLADWELL

FALL FUN

WITH BRACES TRICKS FOR NAVIGATING THE SEASON’S TREATS When your child or teen has braces, the fall season may seem a bit overwhelming with the North Carolina State Fair upon us, Halloween looming, and winter holidays quickly approaching. As parents, do we let them eat the candy that abounds this time of year and simply hope for the best, or encourage them to avoid sweets altogether? Most likely you want your child to enjoy these festivities, as do I; so by following these guidelines, he or she can enjoy the season while keeping his or her appliances secure. 14

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Since there seems to be a never-ending temptation of sweets and treats that aren’t so good for the health of braces this time of year, one of the most important things to remember, and remind your kids about, is proper dental hygiene. – Plaque is the enemy. The buildup of food debris – especially sweets, saliva, and bacteria – trapped around braces can cause cavities, swollen gums, and bad breath. – Be sure to brush! Good hygiene while wearing braces is key. Brushing around all parts of the braces and every surface area of the teeth is extremely important to avoid permanent scars. – Helpful tips and tricks. I recommend interproximal brushes to help with removing food around brackets and between teeth, fluoride toothpaste or rinse, and power toothbrushes to make brushing easier and more efficient. Fall is a fun time for kids, and indulging in the season’s abundance of candy and other sweets shouldn’t be discouraged. The takeaway for sweet treats and those with braces is that they should be enjoyed in moderation, with a discriminating eye, and always be followed by good brushing techniques. By keeping these tips in mind, your child doesn’t have to spend this season of sweets treat-free and instead, can enjoy all it has to offer.  Dr. Jason Gladwell is a Board Certified Specialist in orthodontics, certified lecturer for Invisalign, the Triangle’s only elite provider for Invisalign, and the first in the area to use a digital, impression-less scanner. To learn more, please visit www.gladwellorthodontics.com.

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BY JENNIFER SMART

DRIVEABLE

DESTINATION GRANVILLE HAUNT FARM

rom haunted houses to corn mazes, central North Carolina has a fine selection of spooky Halloween experiences from which to choose. This time around we’re featuring one of the newer offerings. Granville Haunt Farm, located just outside Oxford in Granville County, is embarking on its third year in the scare business and is definitely worth a visit. This is a place where the hosts take the usual mix of ghosts, zombies, and darkness, and toss in a few unexpected twists to create an expertly customized outdoor experience.

added one more vehicle and implemented a plan for timed ticketing to prevent extended wait periods. Visitors are also allowed to purchase additional paintballs for extra zombie extermination power. Another new development this year is the total transformation of a five-acre corn field into a Haunted Trail packed with scenes, actors, and props designed to provoke even more spinetingling chills. And for those who prefer their corn without the ghouls, there’s a separate, self-guided maze in a seven-acre section apart from the other attractions. Here you can hunt for checkpoints or search for clues in the “Monster Mystery” game. Social media is typically a good gauge of how well these events are pulled off, and this time is no different. Fans rate the Granville Haunt Farm as “moderately scary” and appropriate for ages 11 and up. (Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.) Past visitors were impressed by the significant improvements between years one and two, and can’t wait for the changes

For instance, the Granville Haunt Farm doesn’t provide an ordinary hayride. Instead, visitors climb aboard a “Zombie Attack Vehicle” outfitted with paintball guns mounted on both sides. Each rider receives 150 paintballs before the ride ventures into deep zombie territory on a mission to save the world from an invasion of the living dead. A fan favorite in 2016, this year’s event has 16

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promised for this new Halloween season. Reviewers also comment favorably on the farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention to amenities. There are friendly ticket attendants, a well-stocked concession stand with hot chocolate and snacks, and adequate parking. The Granville Haunt Farm kicks off its seasonal hours on October 7 and is open throughout the month on Friday and Saturday nights from sunset to 11:00 PM. Nighttime hours also include the run-up to Halloween on October 29, 30, and 31. Daytime hours begin on October 7 and extend from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Guests can pay to experience their scares one at a time for fees that range largely from $10 to $15 per attraction, or can opt for a combined ticket that covers the full event for $20. Considerably lower rates are offered if you purchase your tickets in advance at www.granvillehauntfarm.com. Group discounts are also available. So go ahead and get your tickets, and this Halloween season, head on up the road and check out Granville Haunt Farm ... if you dare. ď Ž To reach the Granville Haunt Farm from the Wake Forest area, head west on Highway 98 and take the Highway 50 exit heading north through Creedmoor. Merge onto Highway 15 and continue north approximately 10 miles. The farm will be on the right just before the Oxford city limits. Jennifer Smart is assistant director at the Wake Forest Historical Museum. You can visit the website at www.wakeforestmuseum.org.

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as I navigated recovery with my husband, three small children, a dog, and a home to take care of. If this is a path you have taken or may be facing, keep in mind that you too may experience some effects of this as well. Grief, pain, and questioning are a part of the journey and your feelings are valid. If a loved one has cancer, here are some practical things to think about because friends, family, and community can absolutely help her fight it. She needs help. Recovery is a process. Everyone is different and will need different things. Your offering to pick up her kids, walk the dog, or grocery shop may be the most helpful gesture you could offer. A lot of friends may provide these generous services at the beginning of her battle, but these offers will likely fade away as life gets busy. So be sure to check on her a couple of weeks and months after her treatment begins as well. Recovery can take up to eight weeks post a mastectomy surgery – not to mention the effects of chemotherapy or radiation that she may experience – so these offers to help during this difficult time will be needed, and extremely appreciated. BY NIKKI SPEER

REDEFINING

COURAGE HOW TO HELP SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER

My family history is peppered with courageous women who have had breast cancer – my two maternal aunts, my maternal grandmother, and my mom. Breast cancer has not been the easiest thing to see, nor walk through. It is no respecter of persons, but it has made us stronger and

able to face hardship with our faith.

am a previvor (a woman choosing to have a preventative double mastectomy) and I can remember what it felt like to wake up in the hospital after I made the decision to have my breasts removed preventatively. It was shocking, scary, and painful. I knew I was going to need help

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She needs (real) friends. You can be that friend for her. You are in her life for a reason and you have gifts and abilities that she could use right now. You know what your strengths are – use them in this moment in time. No one person is like you and she will be blessed by the perfect friend you are. A handwritten note is often forgotten about in today’s digital world, but receiving one can still mean a great deal to her, as she knows it takes time, thought, and is personal. That is a wonderful gift to give. Listening is another wonderful gift, and sometimes it’s one of the hardest things to do (speaking from experience); but remember that being there to listen to her voice her thoughts and feelings – both the good and the bad – is time she will cherish. She needs grace. She isn’t herself as she is dealing with heightened anxiety, brain fog, and side effects from medication and/or treatments. She needs plenty of grace from you as you both navigate your relationship in a different way. She needs encouragement. This is a very devastating time in her life. Many things are changing, especially her thoughts of herself and the anxiety of the future … so your encouraging words can be just what she needs. Words are powerful. Speak life. Speak hope. Help her redefine her courage.  Nikki and Gerrod Speer are the founders of Redefined Courage, Inc., a local company offering made-in-America clothing for breast cancer patients recovering from breast surgeries and treatments. They reside in Wake Forest with their three children, and find joy with family, friends, and helping others. For more information on Redefined Courage and their clothing line, visit www.redefinedcourage.com.

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MVP TAILGATING

BY STACEY MORITZ

utumn has arrived – and that means cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and football! Yes, football season is in full swing. And no matter which team you are cheering for, you know that the tailgate tradition is probably the most important part of gameday … and certainly one that deserves a little thought and planning to make the most of the experience. With just a little advanced prep at home, you can rock the tailgate and bring home a win, no matter the final score of the game.

If it is later in the day, a good dose of carbs and protein will carry you through the big game – so look no further than the twice baked potato. You didn’t see this coming, did you? I absolutely love potatoes – they are probably one of the most versatile foods on the planet and there are so many amazing things you can do with them. Twice baked potatoes are perfect for tailgating because you bake and stuff them ahead of time (fill them with anything your heart – and stomach – desires), and simply warm them up again when you’re ready to eat. Genius!

While burgers, dogs, and brats are tailgate staples, there is no reason to end your menu there. As long as you are firing up the grill, make it work double time for you by using it as an oven as well. Pre-made sandwiches, potatoes, and sides can all be warmed up on the spot, allowing you to enjoy the pre-game festivities without having to miss a beat. Whether you are starting your tailgate at 9:00 AM for the early game or later in the day for an evening kickoff, there are some awesome make-ahead goodies that will eliminate the need for last minute scrambling and can feed even the rowdiest of crowds.

Bake your potatoes at 425 degrees for about 45 to 75 minutes, depending on their size. Once cool enough to handle, slice the potatoes in half and scoop out their insides with a spoon, placing them into a large bowl. Add softened butter, sour cream,

If you are heading out to the stadium early, chances are good that there will be a slight nip in the autumn air. If so, you’ll want some warm goodness to help get you going. Along with your Bloody Mary or Thermos of coffee – a spike of Bailey’s or Kahlua is optional as well – you’ll want a hearty breakfast to take with you. Some of my favorite easy-to-make-ahead options include breakfast “sammies” (smaller-sized sandwiches) and burritos. All you have to do is wrap them individually in foil and pop them on the grill over low to medium heat for about 15 minutes for a breakfast of champions. My preferred breakfast burritos contain either bacon or sausage, scrambled eggs, maybe some hash browns, and my favorite salsa and cheese. Make yours mild or serve them spicy and customized with your favorite ingredients. For a yummy grilled breakfast sammie, all you need to do is whip up a simple omelet, top it with your choice of cheese and/or meat, and grill up some thick bread. Assemble it in advance and bring any additions (like salsa) along to add just before warming on the grill. The end result is a hearty breakfast that will carry you through endless rounds of cornhole until the game starts, or halftime when it’s time to fire up the chili. 20

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shredded cheese, a pinch of salt, and whip them with an electric mixer just until combined. Then stir in your additional ingredients, spoon the filling into the potato skins, wrap them individually in foil, and refrigerate until game day. Need some inspiration? Here are just a few of my favorites: – Shredded cooked chicken, bacon, cheddar, and caramelized onions; – Shredded cooked brisket, cheddar, and barbecue sauce; – Spinach, feta, and shredded cooked chicken. Moving on to sandwiches where, again, there is no shortage of options. While everyone loves a big foot-long masterpiece on game day, there is something to be said for the smaller version, which I love to refer to as the aforementioned “sammie.” Sammies are a staple in my house any time, any day, but they are most delicious when served warm … I’m talking lots of meat and cheese and a good mustard or spicy mayonnaise fresh off the grill. Any size, any shape, and on your favorite bread – mini slider buns, a French baguette, or a hoagie roll. Regardless of which sammie route you choose, odds are nothing will satisfy your tailgating buddies’ bellies more. There’s no need to stress on game day … go ahead and prepare your sammies the day before. But be sure to hold the sauce, mustard, or mayo until you are ready to heat them, wrap them in foil, and warm them on the grill. The result is melty, warm gameday goodness. All you need to round out the perfect tailgating event are a few dips, a slow cooker of your famous chili, a cooler of your favorite beverages, and the best friends and fans anyone can ask for. #gameday #friendsandfootball #goodfood 

a moment's grace

faith | hope | health | beauty

photography * headshots * beauty/glamour * senior & preteen girls

Stacey Moritz is the owner of The Lemon Tree Cafe, located at 113 S. White Street in Downtown Wake Forest (919-521-5806), offering freshly prepared salads, pastas, soups, and take-away fare. The Lemon Tree Cafe is open Monday - Saturday, 10:00 AM 3:00 PM, offering lunch and catering.

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health/wellness

connecting

* personal coaching * team support * quality nutrition * personal development

* networking events * community events

www.amomentsgrace.com empowering women inside and out

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olorful, fallen leaves can be transformed into seasonal art, candle containers, and fairy-lit garlands. Other free autumn decorating materials you might find outside include fallen pinecones; hydrangea blooms (which can be dried); bittersweet and grape vine; and oak, crabapple, and other tree branches, to name just a few. Even everyday groceries can serve as great fall decorations – from a bowl of apples or pomegranates to the assortment of squashes and pumpkins that keep for a long time and can be made eventually into yummy soups and delicious pies. The key to decorating for this season is to create a feast for the senses, plus a feeling of comfort and sanctuary from the stresses of busy fall schedules and pre-holiday workloads. 1. SIGHT. When it comes to color, think outside the classic autumn palette of oranges, yellows, browns, and reds. Adding greens, whites, and blues to the mix makes it easy to update your fall décor for the holidays and the winter beyond. Adding warm, low lighting from candles and twinkling white lights is another great trick for making fall visuals pop.

BY TODD AND CHERYL NELSON

5 WAYS TO

INVITE

FALL INTO YOUR HOME Fall means cooler temperatures outside, so it’s time to bring some warmth back inside by filling your home with the wonderful colors, textures, scents, delicacies, and sounds of the season. Decorating for fall can be both fun and inexpensive. Natural materials are abundant and collecting them is a great way to spend quality time out of doors with kids, pets, family, and friends. There are countless easy DIY fall craft projects, plus arrangement and presentation ideas, that will give your home a warm and inviting feel and are just a quick Pinterest search away. 22

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2. TOUCH. There are plenty of great reasons to keep your home’s temperature cool through fall and winter. Strategic placement of soft, cozy throws and blankets, slippers, and sweaters creates a perfect balance of staying warm and comfortable. 3. SMELL. An autumn-themed simmer pot starring apples, cinnamon, citrus, and cloves, or a slow cooker warming flavored cider or mulled wine permeates your home with familiar and comforting scents. So, too, will plenty of baking and cooking of fall favorites, which brings us to … 4. TASTE. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy a bounty of nutritious and fiber-rich seasonal fruits and vegetables. And while some fall favorites – such as roasts, pies, cider donuts, and caramel apples – might not be the healthiest, trekking out to local farms and harvesting your own food can provide at least a partial offset in terms of exercise. What’s more, basically every traditional fall recipe now has a lightened-up version you can try. 5. SOUND. Finally, for the sense of hearing in fall, enjoy the crackle of a wood fire or simply the sweet sound of silence that descends after summer’s cacophony of lawn mowers and weed whackers. Trade-in your leaf blower for an old-fashioned rake and your neighbors will love you for it. Plus, you’ll burn enough calories to enjoy all those sinful fall favorites guilt-free!  Todd and Cheryl Nelson are the co-owners of MaidPro of Raleigh and Wake Forest. For cleaning tips, visit www.maidpro.com/raleighnorth or call 919-871-9996.

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HAPPY HEALTHY

HALLOWEEN YES, YOUR KIDS CAN HAVE BOTH

or many adults and children alike, managing weight can be a challenge – especially during Halloween. However, a little pre-planning can go a long way. Dr. Samareh Hill, a board-certified pediatrician with WakeMed Physician Practices - Pediatric Weight Management, shares some helpful tips and tricks for parents to make this Halloween healthier for everyone. – Examine candy immediately. After trick-or-treating, parents should inspect candy and be sure to read labels carefully. Look for and throw away anything with holes in the wrappers; candy that looks like it has been tampered with; homemade goods (unless you know the baker and the ingredients they used); any candy that your kids might be allergic to; and candy that has expired. – Eat before you go. Make sure your children have a healthy, filling dinner before trick-or-treating. This will reduce snacking while walking, as well as overindulging on candy afterwards. – Use a smaller bag for candy collection. Minimize the amount of candy brought home by providing your kids with a smaller bag or pumpkin basket instead of a large bag. – Be selective. After trick-or-treating, allow your kids to choose one or two of their favorite candies, and then take the rest away. Have your children eat their candy with a cup of low-fat milk to minimize the sugar spike before bed. – Opt for the “fun size.” Some healthier choices for candy bars are the “fun size” instead of full size. If you have a choice in chocolate, go for dark chocolate, which offers some health benefits. – Offer a “candy trade.” Give your kids the option to trade their candy in for a favorite non-food item, like shoes, books, clothes, cash, iTunes gift cards, or movie tickets. This rewards them for making a healthy decision. 24

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– Halloween and diabetes. If your child is diabetic, it doesn’t mean that he or she can’t participate in trick-or-treating. There are ways to make Halloween safer for them. For example, if your child is walking a lot that evening, he/she may be exerting more calories and may need to use more insulin. As much as possible, make an agreement with your children to wait to eat the candy when they are home so that you can carb count appropriately. Parents should be educated about how different types of candy impact blood sugar. For example, chocolate with more fat has a slower release of sugar than the sugary candies that cause a quicker release of glucose. – The Teal Pumpkin Project. Do you or your children have food allergies? If so, keep an eye out while trick-or-treating for homes with teal-colored pumpkins on their front porches or outside the doors. The Teal Pumpkin Project helps keep Halloween a fun, safe experience for all. A teal pumpkin – the color for food allergy awareness – is a sign of safe, non-food treats for children. Examples of non-food treats include glow sticks, bracelets, or necklaces; spider rings, vampire teeth, or wind-up toys; stickers, coloring pages, or books; LED finger lights, Silly Putty, or silly straws.  WakeMed Health & Hospitals is dedicated to helping you and your family enjoy a healthy life by providing the highest level of care and caring. Led by Dr. Samareh Hill, WakeMed Physician Practices – Pediatric Weight Management is committed to improving the health and well-being of children and youth who are facing challenges and medical problems related to excess weight and obesity. With expertise in childhood weight management, Dr. Hill believes every child has the potential to achieve a healthy weight and life-long wellness. Her professional interests include research on general pediatrics and obesity and developing public programs and interventions aimed at preventing childhood and adolescent obesity. For more information about WakeMed Physician Practices – Pediatric Weight Management, visit wakemed.org/physician-practices or call 919-235-6439.

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addition, bring with you a list of the nearest veterinarian’s phone number, address, emergency number, and opening hours, in case there is a medical situation that can’t wait until your return home.

BY VANESSA DAVIS

TIPS FOR

TRAVELING WITH FIDO

Once you arrive at your travel destination, if the environment warrants it, let your dog explore a bit – on leash, of course, if you are outdoors. It’s a good idea for Fido to familiarize himself with the area and feel comfortable with his new temporary surroundings. As much as possible, keep your furry family member’s routine normal by feeding and walking him at the same time of the day as you would while at home. Making sure pets get enough exercise while traveling is vital so that they don’t get bored and act out. Always avoid unusual treats or meals when away from home, as you want to avoid any upset stomach situations that may occur. And if your pet will be interacting with other dogs during your trip, be sure to observe them closely as they meet. If there are any signs of aggression, immediately separate them, and try again later. Your vacation should be a time for fun, not a time of stress. And bringing your furry friend on your travel adventures should add to the enjoyment. By following these simple tips for taking him on your trip, you can ensure a good time will be had by all. Safe travels!  Vanessa Davis is the owner of Dirty Dogs Spa, LLC 929 Heritage Lake Road in Wake Forest (www.dirtydogsllc.com) and Zoomy Dogs, 5420 NC-55 in Durham (www.zoomydogs.com).

all is a time of travel – perhaps you are thinking of a weekend getaway to the magnificent North Carolina mountains, or maybe you’re planning a trip to visit family out of state for Christmas. Whatever your upcoming travel plans may be, if you are like me – a pet owner who just can’t bear to board my pets while on vacation – there are steps you can take to ensure the journey is a safe and enjoyable one for your four-legged loved one. When packing for yourself, pack for your pet as well – think “diaper bag” for your pup. Make sure you have his food and water bowls, and enough food for the duration of your trip. Favorite toys, bedding, or blankets are also recommended – Fido will be in a strange place and you want to make it as familiar and comfortable for him as possible. I always pack an extra leash and collar, just in case they get wet or lost. You may want to include a container of all-natural, unscented baby wipes or doggie wipes and a towel in case your pup gets dirty during your travels – you never know when you are going to have to tidy him up. And of course, don’t forget poop bags. If needed, update your pet’s identification tags and microchip (if he has one) with your contact information in the unfortunate case he gets lost. Include your dog’s name as well as your name, address, and mobile phone number. Some airlines will ask to verify vaccination records, so having a copy with you is important. In

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o you find yourself wanting to create more memories by hosting the Halloween party that will be the talk of the neighborhood or having friends and family over for that traditional holiday dinner, but are hesitating to do so because you don’t like your kitchen? Does it feel outdated and unwelcoming? Are you worried that you won’t be able to afford the improvements needed to give it the transformation you desire, or tackle the project in time to throw that big holiday soiree? If you answered yes to any of these questions, have no fear … there are ways to improve the heart of the home that will meet all budgets and all timeframes so you can have money and time leftover to continue the holiday traditions with those you love.

BY RHONDA BENVIE

KITCHENS THE HEART

OF THE HOLIDAYS If you’re anything like me, memories of past holidays probably include family and friends gathering around the kitchen. They may be memories of the immediate family gathering for Christmas morning breakfast. Maybe they were of your extended family who assembled for the traditional Thanksgiving feast. Or maybe they were of the annual holiday party with friends and neighbors celebrating the season together. No matter the occasion, the kitchen tends to be the heart of the home – during the holiday season, and all year long. 26

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For an instant and easy kitchen update with a big impact, simply change out the hardware on your cabinets and drawers to ones of a different finish. This quick and cost-effective project can make even the most ordinary cabinet come to life. For a more dramatic impact, paint your cabinets. Brighten them up by painting them a soothing white or cream color, or perhaps paint them a glossy black or chocolate brown. If this is the route you take and you currently have knobs on your cabinets and drawers, this is the perfect time to switch from knobs to pulls for an additional facelift (simply fill in the holes before painting). These two endeavors can take your kitchen from boring to fabulous in almost no time flat. For more wow factor, add a tile backsplash. If you don’t have tile in your kitchen, incorporating this one element can add so much to the space. Maybe you have a tile backsplash already, but the style is dated – as is the countertop. Replacing the current countertop with one of granite or quartz and updating the tile to a more current and trendy version can be a huge improvement that goes a long way in modernizing your house, while also increasing its value (who doesn’t want that?). While undertaking these enhancements, go ahead and update your faucet and sink, making sure to tie all of kitchen’s elements together for a cohesive look. Another impactful way to improve your kitchen is with lighting. A well-lit space is not only more inviting, but user-friendly as well. Do you still have the big fluorescent square box of years past in your kitchen? Think about replacing it with a beautiful, modern light fixture that not only looks beautiful, but also gives a more pleasing light that you cannot get from fluorescent lighting. Investing in recessed lighting is another way to get better light in the kitchen as well. A licensed electrician can add these rather easily in most spaces. Undercabinet lighting is also a great addition to any kitchen. It can serve as extra lighting for preparing meals and as subdued lighting at night – perfect for a cozy evening of dinner and drinks with friends to celebrate the holidays. Updating pendant lighting over the counter and lighting over the kitchen table are easy and cost-effective ways to quickly bring about dramatic results.

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Perhaps you have moved into a new home, or recently have undergone a complete kitchen remodel. While your kitchen may be brand new, it may be lacking personality. Adding window treatments, artwork, and the right accessories will take your space to the next level. Rugs under the table or in front of the sink can add much needed softness to the area. Fresh flowers and plants bring the outdoors in and add an inviting tone to the space. They are also a great way to decorate for the various upcoming holidays (freshly cut sunflowers just scream that fall has arrived, while a stunning red poinsettia on the kitchen table is sure to be an eye-catcher during the Christmas season). If your kitchen furniture has been hanging around longer than it should have, then consider something new. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a fortune on a new dining set. Sometimes just replacing the chairs is all the update you need – maybe you want to go with a traditional style, or perhaps seating that’s a little more vintage will add personality and character. And let’s not forget paint – whether it’s painting walls, furniture, or cabinets like I mentioned earlier – if you are handy at all, paint is probably the most budget-friendly way to transform a space and is an easy project you can tackle yourself if you are transforming on a budget. Keep in mind, though, that painting cabinets is a labor of love. There is a lot of prep work involved to ensure it is done correctly and can stand up to daily use – but it is well worth it for the best results. Not interested in tackling the cabinet-painting project but still want added drama in your kitchen? How about just painting the island a fun or bold color (making sure it still matches the countertops as well as the cabinets)? Painting the walls depends on the space and the layout of your home. With an open floor plan, consider painting an accent wall a dramatic color instead of all the walls, to avoid creating a feeling of separation from the rest of the space. If your house does not have an open floor plan, then painting all the walls may be the only update needed to breathe new life into your kitchen. Color is very important and should flow with the rest of the common spaces in your house. If you think your kitchen is in need of a complete overhaul, know that a remodel of this space is a big undertaking. Hiring the right professionals will not only make the job go more smoothly, but will save you money in the long run. An interior designer can pull the entire plan together, helping you to avoid costly mistakes. No matter what situation your kitchen is in, even small updates can bring inviting results. You may find that once you get started, the inspiration will keep flowing, and your once-tired kitchen can be brought back to life – just in time for all those wonderful holiday celebrations with friends and family.  Rhonda Benvie is the owner of Help Me Rhonda Interiors, 1600 Heritage Commerce Court, Suite 103 in Wake Forest and Open Door Furniture & Accents, a furniture and accessories store also in Wake Forest. Visit www.helpmerhondainteriors.com or www.opendoorfurnitureandaccents.com, or call 919-263-9054.

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LIGHT IT UP

FOR DAZZLING HOLIDAYS ... FROM HALLOWEEN THROUGH THE NEW YEAR BY JIMMY TOMPKINS

oliday lighting has been a tradition in our culture for centuries, and has come a long way since the 17th century when people first decorated Christmas trees with candles. Incorporating lighting into holiday décor is no longer just a matter of stringing strands of lights on the tree during the Christmas season. Each year, more and more customers are lighting up their homes – both indoors and out – for various holidays throughout the year, while also adding accent lighting décor to their patios or landscaping for outdoor enjoyment, no matter the season. For instance, homeowners are now integrating lighting into their home’s Halloween scheme to achieve dramatically spooky and scary effects. And as soon as the ghosts and ghouls get packed up until next year, it’s time to set up the winter season’s decorations and lighting displays. One holiday transitions to the next, and there is potential to illuminate your home 12 months out of the year.

INCANDESCENT OR LED? Looking to highlight scary skeletons and ghastly goblins in your yard or want to frame your front door with a strand of large vibrant orange bulbs for a spooky Halloween effect? Or maybe you hope to wrap your front porch columns with warm, inviting twinkling lights to beckon friends and family inside. Perhaps you envision outlining the perimeter of your roofline with bright lights so that Santa can’t miss your house Christmas Eve. Whatever holiday design dream you have, there are several options available to satisfy your lighting needs. When you drive through a neighborhood during the coming months, you will likely see many homes with the standard C9 bulbs outlining their roofs, with a spacing of about 12” between each bulb. Those C9 bulbs come in traditional incandescent or LED versions. The market, and thus homeowners, are moving away from the incandescent bulb that contains the mono-filament wire (like the Edison light bulb) and instead are opting for the higher-efficient LED bulb. LED bulbs have diodes that emit much more light and are 10 times more energy efficient than the standard incandescent bulbs. They are also longer lasting, safer (as they generate little heat), and are more durable than their 28

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predecessors. You will see the LED technology being used in pre-lit Christmas trees, wreaths, garland, mini lights, and lawn décor.

THE FUTURE OF HOLIDAY LIGHTING Over the past couple of years, RGB technology has become the trend in holiday lighting. The RGB product uses LED in a technology that combines the red, blue, and green colors to produce over 16 million hues of light (as noted by Phillips Lighting Corporation). RGB, combined with Bluetooth technology, will enable you to not only change the color of the bulbs, but also turn the lights on and off in your home. Again, a big improvement over the hanging candles on the Christmas trees of generations past.

LET THE PROS HANDLE IT If you’re not interested in tackling the tedious and incredibly frustrating task of hanging holiday lights, consider hiring a professional company to install, remove, and store the lights for you (you may even be able to purchase lighting from them directly). This can be a big convenience for holiday home decorators, especially those who don’t want to climb up on ladders – much less their roofs. The cost of paying someone to decorate your home with holiday lighting is much less than an insurance claim if an accident of someone falling off a ladder were to occur. Plus, it will save you precious time during the already hectic holiday season – time that’s better spent enjoying the holidays with family and friends. It is best to hire an experienced professional decorator who understands the electrical power needs of installing various holiday lights on or around your home. Starting with Halloween and continuing on through Thanksgiving and Christmas or Hanukkah, of course display your traditional holiday decorations – from Jack ,o Lanterns to scarecrows and hay to sleds and snowmen – but this year, make more of an outdoor decorating statement with exterior home lighting and let your holidays be the brightest ones yet.  Jimmy Tompkins is the owner of JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care. He may be reached at 919-453-2716 or visit www.jts-landscaping.com.

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I do remember being very young and watching with fascination as Grandma wielded her rolling pin, deftly taming the blob of sugar cookie dough into a thin layer of heavenly goodness. Then there was the flourish of excitement when I was presented with the huge tin of cookie cutters: stars, trees, Santa hats, reindeer, bells, stockings – cutting them out was my job early on. Finally, as a few years passed, I began learning how to use that rolling pin to tame the dough myself, carefully flouring the plastic mat to be sure the sticky dough came loose after the cutters pieced out those precious shapes, soon to be baked and decorated, then gently moving the shapes to cookie sheets for baking to a crisp and golden brown. It was always a game of precision to get those cookie cut-outs on the baking sheet with points and corners intact and not laying wildly askew in a shape nobody would recognize.

BY HOLLY HOPKINS

GRANDMA’S ROLLING PIN CARRYING ON THE SUGAR COOKIE TRADITION

e all know tradition begins with family. My story is the classic tale of the little girl growing up at her grandmother’s elbow –I learned everything I know and love about baking from Grandma! Christmas was prime time for her. Every year, there were trays upon tins upon containers full of cookies of all shapes and sizes and flavors and origins. We made everything from traditional German Sanbakkels and Krumkake to whatever Grandma found in the latest issue of a magazine or from recipes shared by friends. But there was the one cookie that united us all in a family tradition – the sugar cookie. The recipe itself was one given to her by an old and dear friend, but quickly became a staple in her household. It had an honored place in her recipe box in the rather large section reserved for “Christmas Cookies and Bars.” It was well loved and frequently used. 30

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Of course, we had to do all the rolling and cutting and baking before we could get to the fun part – decorating! This is the part where the whole family came to the table, literally. My grandfather, mother, uncles, aunts, cousins, and even neighbors all joined in. We all sat around the large kitchen table sharing the colored frostings, the myriad of bright colored sugars; the many shapes, sizes, and colors of sprinkles; and those random candy pieces that looked pretty, but weren’t really all that tasty. Some of us carefully applying color and design, others simply layering on the gooey frosting and extra sprinkles. I swear my uncles tried their hardest to make the ugliest cookies, simply to outdo one another and get the biggest reaction from Grandma. And those poor cookies that broke during the frosting party were simply deemed fair game and eaten on the spot. There may even have been the intentionally broken cookie or two. We always laughed and sang along with the Christmas carols playing on my grandparents’ record player in the other room and teased Grandma about needing so many cookies (she did have to feed the entire neighborhood – everyone headed to her cookie tin first thing through the door). I don’t remember ever being happier as a kid – this was what family was to me. This was our tradition. Of course, my decorating style matured as I did and I eventually took to gel colors, elaborate cookie shapes, and a paintbrush to make some of my sugar cookies quite the works of art. I love the sugar cookie recipe I am sharing with you. It is a great recipe to let kids work with – start a tradition that lets them get their hands in early. This dough is incredibly versatile and very forgiving for beginners. It makes great tasting cookies, whether they are super thick or very thin, and holds up nicely to handling – it isn’t terribly fragile in the hands of a youngster practicing the art of frosting. It is also very resilient; you can roll and re-roll (and re-roll) and it still stays pretty flaky and tasty. It also serves double duty as a Snickerdoodle cookie if you don’t want to take the time to do roll out cookies, but still desire a crisp and tender sweet treat. Even after Grandma passed away and my family had all moved,

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I embraced the Christmas frosted sugar cookie tradition through the years. My family grew to include everyone in my circle – my mom, my college roommates, my co-workers, and my friends. With my continued love of baking, I was lucky enough to inherit Grandma’s rolling pin and recipe box. I use them every year. I put on some Christmas music, open up the dented and beloved recipe box, and reach up to the top pantry shelf for that trusty rolling pin. Tradition may begin with the family you grew up with, but it doesn’t have to end there. It can grow and travel as you do. My tradition is in my hands and in my heart, and I will gladly share it with anyone who wants a cookie!

ROLL-OUT SUGAR COOKIES Makes 30-50 cookies, depending on the size of the cutters – 1 cup butter – 1 cup sugar – 3 cups flour – 1 teaspoon salt – 1 teaspoon baking soda – 1 teaspoon cream of tartar – 2 eggs, beaten – 2 tablespoons milk – 1 teaspoon vanilla – Flour for dusting

your favorite shapes with cookie cutters. A bench scraper works great for transferring the cookies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gather the scraps left after cutting and refrigerate. After you have rolled out and cut all the first round of dough, you can re-roll the scraps and cut out more cookies. To use as Snickerdoodle batter, scoop the batter into balls using a spoon (or a small cookie scoop/disher). Roll the dough inbetween your hands to form a nice round ball. Drop in a cinnamon-sugar mix and completely coat. Place the balls on a cookie sheet, lined with parchment. Flatten balls slightly and sprinkle a bit of the cinnamonsugar mix on the top of each cookie. This can be done from the first mixing, or you can use this method to finish up the scraps of dough left from rolling out and cutting out sugar cookies. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes, then turn, bake another 4 minutes or until done.

SUGAR COOKIE FROSTING – 1½ cups powdered sugar – 3 tablespoons butter, softened – 1 tablespoons milk – 1 teaspoon vanilla – Food coloring (I prefer gel colors) Mix the butter and powdered sugar together using a mixer. Add vanilla and milk (you can add more milk as needed to achieve desired consistency for frosting). Divide the frosting up into small containers and color each one to your tastes. I like the gel food coloring best, as it is more vibrant and doesn’t change the consistency of the frosting. Make more and color as needed.  Holly Hopkins is general manager at Chef Mario’s Inc., a local catering company specializing in scratch-made food that looks as delicious as it tastes. They offer a full line of corporate catering and personal chef meals. They believe you can eat well and still love what you are eating. Please visit www.chefmario.com.

Cut the butter into small chunks and chill. Combine the dry ingredients in the bowl of a mixer: sugar, flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. In a small bowl, mix the wet ingredients: eggs, milk, and vanilla. Add the butter to the dry ingredients and mix on medium until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the wet ingredients and continue to mix, until well combined. The dough will be very sticky. Place in refrigerator until well chilled. Keep the dough refrigerated while rolling out portions of it. Using a piece of dough, the size of a fist, roll out on a well-floured board or mat. Turn the dough over and re-flour often to be sure it isn’t sticking. When the dough reaches your desired thickness, cut out

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BY JENNIFER SMART

DRIVEABLE

DESTINATION THE WRIGHT FAMILY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

hen your Christmas story begins with Big Daddy tackling holiday traffic to acquire a two-story inflatable reindeer, you know you’re on to something. When the story ends with a holiday light display that covers three acres, four houses, and five yards, you know it’s utterly unique in the annals of small town holiday celebrations. And that’s why this “Driveable Destination” is three important things: special, fun, and within the Wake Forest zip code. Because no matter how far you drive, you can’t top the Wright Family Christmas Light Display on Cedar Avenue in the North Main Street Historic District. The members of the Wright Family are a Wake Forest tradition unto themselves. Ricky and Jane were high school sweethearts who got married, raised a family, and helped the town develop and grow. Along with their daughter Hollie and son-in-law Jimmy Hicks, they own and operate the highly successful Electric Motor Shop on North White Street, which specializes in providing and repairing high-tech machinery for clients across the United States. This means the Wrights are exceptionally well-qualified in the organizational aspects of running a vast electrical operation, which is exactly what the two-month Christmas extravaganza has become. 32

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Just to be clear, there was a time when the Wrights celebrated Christmas like any other family. But that all ended when Hollie and Jimmy’s twin sons Chandler and Chase were born on January 2, 2002. Ricky became Big Daddy and Jane became Nana, and as the boys’ first Christmas approached, they concocted a plan worthy of the number one spot on the ultimate list of “Amazing Things Grandparents Do.” The idea was to create a new holiday tradition by taking the twins on an annual trip to buy lights, yard art, and inflatables. Nana and Big Daddy encouraged the boys to select anything they liked – which is how the Wrights acquired the two-story inflatable reindeer. It’s also how a modest seasonal jaunt to Home Depot or Walmart eventually expanded into a countywide search for the most dazzling Christmas décor available in central North Carolina. But as Rome wasn’t built in a day, neither was the Wright Family Christmas Light Display. Over the years, the family has developed a routine. At the end of September, they gather together, remove the decorations from storage, lay them out in the backyard, and take a full inventory. Every strand of twinklers is inspected. Each extension cord is tested. The inflatable Santas and snowmen are blown up and checked for leaks. In mid-October, Chandler and Chase haul the decorations to the front of the house, the family starts installation, and the cherry-picker arrives to string bulbs in the tallest trees. Then Nana and Big Daddy take the boys shopping to find something new. By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, the work is finished, the lights go on, and the family enjoys another holiday season together. So that’s how the Wright Family Christmas had been humming along until about five years ago, when Hollie noticed something different. The first clue was the bus from the local retirement community that kept circling the block. The second was a certificate for “Best Christmas Decorations” that someone slipped into the family mailbox. Delighted at the thought that their lights were brightening the holidays for others in the community, the Wrights decided

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to make the display even bigger and better. About three years ago, they began inviting Santa Claus to join the festivities. On weekend nights in the month of December, he sits in a small Santa cottage in the front yard and greets children from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. “We started paying more attention to safety and traffic,” Hollie says. “Now we try to keep people in the walkway, and we hire an off-duty police officer during peak hours.” They’ve also lost count of how many people stop by, but estimate it’s in the thousands. Spreading so much joy is no small task, and the Wrights buy enough extension cords and lights to illuminate a small city. They try not to think about the electric bill, which doubles during November and December. Nor do they worry about the rain as much as they did in the beginning. Some strands go out, but they always come back on when the ground is dry. (“You never know how much it rains in December until you’ve got a yard full of lights!” Hollie exclaims.) It’s all part and parcel of this personal adventure in grandparenting that has grown into a true Wake Forest tradition. My own family visits the Wrights every year to sing carols with friends and sit with Santa and marvel at the moving, spinning, glowing miracle of so, so, so many Christmas lights. And because the Wrights are genuinely sweet and neighborly, they often venture outside to greet visitors and share in the spirit of the season. So here’s an interesting anecdote about what can happen. One evening, beneath the twinkling strands, a woman was looking at the lights and crying. When she noticed the Wrights, she came over to speak to them. She told them how much she needed to see lights that particular night. They meant a great deal to her and she was grateful. She wanted to say thank you. It’s this episode that offers the best explanation of why the Wright Family Christmas Light Display touches so many people, and why the family works so hard to get it right. The show is beautiful and unexpected and joyful and uplifting, but also humble and approachable and real – as any story with a Nana and Big Daddy at Christmas is certainly bound to be. 

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The Wright Family Light Display spreads across a large section of West Cedar Avenue in Wake Forest’s North Main Street Historic District. The easiest access is at the corner of Cedar and North Main. Although the specifics are top secret, the Wrights change the display every year and are confident this year’s light show is bigger and better than ever. Jennifer Smart is assistant director at the Wake Forest Historical Museum. You can visit the website at www.wakeforestmuseum.org . |

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BY JILL BRIGHT

WREATHS

ACROSS AMERICA

This special and moving tribute grew larger every year. In 2007, the Worcester family business, several veterans organizations, trucking companies, corporate business donors, and a dedicated group of volunteers formed “Wreaths Across America,” which continues the efforts of placing memorial wreaths at all state and national cemeteries. These sponsored wreaths are placed by volunteers who are encouraged to pause, say the veterans’ names aloud so they are

Remember our fallen US Veterans. Honor those who serve. Teach your children the value of freedom. These are the important mission statements for “Wreaths Across America,” a non-profit organization that honors deceased veterans every year at noon on the third Saturday of December. Thousands of volunteers gather to place balsam evergreen wreaths (grown in Maine) at over 1,200 veteran cemeteries and memorials

throughout the United States, as well as at sea and abroad. n 1992, Morrill Worcester had over 5,000 extra wreaths at his holiday decorating company. As a child, seeing thousands of veteran’s graves at Arlington National Cemetery left an emotional and lasting impression on Morrill, which led him to gather his family and friends, fill his trucks with these extra wreaths, and carry them from Maine to Washington, DC. There, just before Christmas, they quietly and respectfully placed them on veterans’ headstones. For the next 15 years, he made, donated, transported, and placed thousands of wreaths at Arlington. 34

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not forgotten, place the wreaths in remembrance of those lives lived, and honor them for their service to our country. These coordinated, cross country ceremonies are a gesture of gratitude and thanks to those who gave the ultimate gift and sacrifice for our freedom.

enter Group ID NC0079P, making checks payable to our local General James Moore Chapter DAR. Mail the form to: Gina Vitrano, Wake Forest DAR, 106 North Avenue, Wake Forest, NC, 27587. Email questions to gmvitrano@gmail.com.

Escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders, many of these donated trucks full of wreaths make educational visits to schools and communities. Veterans join them to share videos, pictures, and stories that teach the meaning of the freedoms that we have, made possible because of the military heroes of our past, present, and future.

You can also volunteer to place a wreath at any ceremony location, (as my husband Randy and I do at Arlington National Cemetery each year, specifically for several North Carolina veterans, including Youngsville native D. Lucas Elliot’s grave, pictured). Or encourage a club, organization, or business to make a financial contribution. Perhaps organize a ceremony at your town’s local cemetery or military memorial if there isn’t one already planned. And last year, 172 companies donated almost 360 truckloads of wreaths to be placed at veterans’ graves – so consider volunteering in mid-January, especially at Arlington, to pick up these thousands of wreaths.

This year’s ceremonies will take place at noon on Saturday, December 16, 2017, with the local wreath distribution at the Raleigh National Cemetery located at 501 Rock Quarry Road in Raleigh. There are several ways in which to become involved and support “Wreaths Across America.” You can sponsor a $15 wreath (as the owner and publisher of CIRCA’s children do, along with their cousins – a proud tradition started by their grandparents several years ago in their grandchildren’s names) by filling out a form that can be picked up at the local Veteran’s Day Ceremony that will take place November 11 at 11:00 AM at the Veterans Memorial located at the Heritage Golf Club in Wake Forest, or at Bright Funeral Home. You may also visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org to sponsor a wreath. Select “Sponsor through a local fundraising group” and

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“Wreaths Across America” provides a simple, family-orientated way to thank, honor, and remember our veterans during the Christmas season, as we should do every day. Please share this mission and its purpose, sponsor a wreath, and most importantly, thank a veteran for their service.  Jill Bright is with Bright Funeral Home, located at 405 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. Bright Funeral Home serves the Wake Forest, Rolesville, Youngsville, Franklinton, Falls, Bay Leaf, Loiusburg, Raleigh, and surrounding areas. For more information, call 919-556-5811.

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STUFF THOSE

STOCKINGS “The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.” Hanging stockings by the fireplace is a long-standing Christmas tradition, one so key that it’s referenced in the first verse of the cherished classic poem that captures the holiday’s magic – “’Twas The Night Before Christmas.” When children and adults alike discover early Christmas morning that those stockings have been stuffed with gifts and gadgets and toys and trinkets, there is no doubt that the man in red paid a visit the night before.

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BY TIFFANY BROCKMANN

o ensure that Santa knows what to stuff in the stockings of the good girls and boys of your home – regardless of their age – they may want to include these on their Christmas wish lists. Or if you’re looking for some fun and unique holiday gifts to share with those you love, or need some small “thank you” tokens for the hosts and hostesses of those many festive parties that are dotting your Christmas calendar, I’ve got you covered. (And I won’t judge you if you happen to pick up a few for yourself.) – World’s Softest Socks: These socks that are perfect for any occasion will have you feeling like you are walking on a cloud. Avail-

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able for men, women, and kids and in tons of styles and patterns, you can never have too many. – Whiffer Sniffer Clip: These scented collectible plush characters are full of personality and charm. Each character’s scent matches their appearance (for instance, the strawberry smells like strawberries, the popcorn smells like popcorn, and the chili pepper smells like chili!). Kids will collect ’em, give ’em, and trade ’em. – Shark Watches: Teens can’t wait to get their hands on these hot items. Waterresistant and available in fun colors, they are also available in mini sizes for the younger watch wearer.

are wearing a bold outfit for an evening on the town or are dressed in a more simple ensemble for a low-key date night, statement earrings are a must. – PocketMonkey: This multi-tool has 12 functions, but fits nicely in your wallet so it’s always there when you need it. From opening bottles to adjusting screws, PocketMonkey helps you conquer life’s everyday tasks. And it’s TSA-compliant, so you can take it with you whenever and wherever you fly. Made in the USA from heat-treated stainless steel, this

multi-tool won’t bend, break, or rust. As the old-saying goes, good things come in small packages … and these gadgets and trinkets are just the right size to stuff the Christmas stockings that were so carefully hung by the chimney with care, awaiting a visit from Jolly Old Saint Nick.  Tiffany Brockmann is the owner of Lily Mae’s, located in The Factory, 1839 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. For more information, please visit www.lilymaes.com. These items, as well as many other fun and unique holiday gifts, can be found at Lily Mae’s.

– Snark City Keychains: Keychains that are rated “S” for sarcastic and snarky, there is a saying for anyone on your Christmas list. – Mix·o·logie: Choose from eight distinct roll-on fragrances of this alcohol-free, blendable perfume collection and create your own blend. Let your “signature scent” change day to day or night to night. – Spongelle: This made-in-America, all-inone beauty treatment consists of a built-in body wash plus buffer. It’s vegan-friendly, dermatologist-tested, and can be used for multiple washes. – LipSense: Finally, lip color that lasts until you take it off. It’s long-lasting, waterproof, and doesn’t kiss off, smear off, or rub off. Choose from over 50 shades, or combine to create your own color palette. – Capri Blue Tin: The volcano scent of this candle is a cult favorite, and has a way of putting you in the best mood. With notes of sugared citrus, it transports you to the happiest of days and gives you the boost of confidence you need to kick off a great day or evening. – Statement Earrings: This hot jewelry trend is on fire right now. Whether you

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READ THE MENU CAREFULLY Look first at the “healthy” or “lighter fare” section of the menu, if there is one. But be careful … just because an item is labeled “healthy” or “light” does not always mean it is heart-healthy. Sometimes the “lighter fare” options are lower in calories, but are not necessarily heart-healthy. Avoid menu items that are described with any of these words: fried, au gratin, crispy, scalloped, pan-fried, sautéed, buttered, creamed, or stuffed. Look for foods that are steamed, broiled, baked, grilled, poached, or roasted.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS Pay attention to fat and salt content. Asking the server up front how a dish is prepared can help you decide if it is actually a healthy choice. Olive oil and canola oil are heart-healthy oils. Dishes made with herbs and spices are more desirable than those flavored with salt or salt-based seasonings. Possible questions to ask: What type of oil is used, and how much? What’s the cooking method? What seasonings are added? You can always ask your server to use a healthier cooking option. Just as a person with celiac disease will ask for gluten-free options, if you have heart disease or high blood pressure, you can ask for heart-healthy options. That includes controlling how much oil is used to cook meats or vegetables.

THINK FISH AND FOWL Choose entrees that contain chicken or seafood. Chicken is a lean

EATING OUT

WITHOUT

GOING ALL OUT

HEALTHY RESTAURANT DINING HINTS

e all know that cooking at home is healthiest, but sometimes it’s easier – and more fun – to go out to eat, especially during the hectic holiday season. With these tips from Kate Rudisill, MS, RD, LDN, registered dietitian with REX Nutrition Services, you can enjoy that New Year’s date night or holiday dinner with friends and still stick to a heart-healthy nutrition plan.

BEFORE YOU GO If possible, find the restaurant’s menu online and determine what you plan to order. Having a plan before you arrive will help you avoid the temptation to make impulsive decisions that might derail your efforts to eat heart-healthy. 38

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meat and naturally contains less fat, especially if it is white meat, boneless, skinless, and not fried. Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are a healthy source of fat. Rudisill recommends you eat fish one to two times per week for heart health. Choose a grilled, broiled, or poached version. Avoid fried seafood. Limit red meat for heart health, especially if you have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or other heart issues. Red meat contains saturated fat, while boneless, skinless chicken breast, fish, turkey, and lamb contain significantly less fat and typically no saturated fat.

SMALL STEPS ADD UP Ask for creamy sauces and dressings on the side. You can use just a bit as needed. And look for opportunities to make a healthy substitution, such as a side salad instead of French fries, or mustard instead of mayo. Be sure to enjoy your company, and slow down to avoid overeating. Put down your fork and take a break to gauge your fullness. Ask for a to-go box when you order your meal, and put half of it away for later as soon as it arrives. And limit eating out to one time per week or less. With a little bit of effort, you can ensure that the meals you eat out arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t only good for your tummy, but also good for your heart. ď Ž Want more information about how a dietitian can help you strengthen your heart? Call REX Nutrition Services at 919-7843419 to schedule an appointment.

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lasting partnerships were facilitated by “regulars” in the store who had already become trusted friends of the business, which made their requests natural and authentic. Their annual asks are now expected and fluidly delivered. On the flip side, we’ve had the deflating experience of ending a donation conversation with the recipient asking for directions to the store because “I’ve never been there!” or saying, “I look forward to having a donut at our fundraiser. I’ve never tried one!” Especially for small businesses that operate under resource constraints and budgeting decisions, giving away money and product is deeply personal. We’re people giving to people and don’t want to feel like a nameless, faceless entity interchangeable with a competitor.

BY KELLY TRIMYER

DONATION

REQUESTS

– Craft a concrete ask … or two. The more specific your request, the better. General requests are harder to evaluate, and may make small businesses wary of missing expectations or disappointing recipients. If you’re unsure of their ability to give, offer a range of participation options from monetary support, to purely in-kind donations, to auction or raffle items. If businesses are unable to provide free products or services, inquire about discounts. – Provide ample lead time. Whenever possible, make requests a few weeks in advance. We often receive a dozen or more requests in a week, and it takes time to play phone tag with contacts and

A PATH TO “YES”

ne of the great joys of being a small business owner is the opportunity to support our community through donations. From schools and charities to churches and youth sports teams, the list of worthy organizations in need is long. Sometimes that list is so long that the requests become overwhelming. And if you’ve ever been in the role of PTA parent or non-profit fundraiser, you know that making donation requests can be intimidating and exhausting. There are many “nos” on the path to “yes.” After three years in business and hundreds of donation requests filled, I have observed a few practices that can make the process more enjoyable and successful for the recipient and the donor. This holiday season, if you are looking to partner with businesses to give back to the community, just try these tips. – Make it personal. Do you frequent the business? Are you familiar with its products or services? If not, consider engaging a buddy or colleague who is. Being a patron is certainly not a prerequisite for donation requests, but in my experience, some of the most 40

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solidify donations. At times we also have to schedule additional team members or purchase extra goods to fulfill a request, so planning in advance is essential. – Say “thank you.” Experience shows that less than 50% of donation recipients say “thank you.” Yet a simple word of gratitude can go a long way in keeping small businesses responsive to your donation requests year after year. A text message with a photo of the event, a shout-out on social media, a short acknowledgement email, or a brief handwritten note are all great ways to show appreciation – the thought is more important than the method. When acknowledging cash contributions or large product donations, a report or letter that outlines donation impact is key. – Avoid donor fatigue. Once a business has given to your organization, although it’s tempting to come back to them for every similar need that arises, try to spread your asks across multiple sources. Think about the opportunities that are most aligned with each business, and make selective requests over the course of a year.  Kelly Trimyer is owner and operator of Duck Donuts locations in North Raleigh and Cary. Duck Donuts’ signature vanilla cake donuts are produced on demand, customized with a variety of icings, toppings, and drizzles, and served warm to customers. Check out www.facebook.com/duckdonuts.RaleighNC to learn more about seasonal flavors, customer specials, and fun and festive catering options.

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DRY EYE 101 IS THE CONDITION AFFECTING THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE? BY SAMANTHA K. McPHERSON

Chronic dry eye affects an estimated 20.7 million people in the United States, occurring when the correct quantity or quality of tears are not produced. Anyone who has experienced getting an eyelash stuck in their eye knows that even the smallest amount of ocular discomfort can cause a significant amount of aggravation. Those with dry eye understand how a seemingly minor eye issue can become a daily nuisance and cause of frustration. Dry eye can be a progressive disease, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems, in-

cluding impaired vision and an increased risk of eye infection.

offer lab testing to rule out some of the major autoimmune diseases as a cause of your dry eye. Your eye doctor can check for signs of dry eye using several quick and painless tests. A colored eye drop is used to highlight problems on the ocular surface. The production, evaporation rate, and quality of the tear film will also be assessed. Evaluation of the nature of the oils in your tears will provide crucial information necessary for determining your best treatment options. Newer technologies are available in clinics that take a special interest in dry eye. An infrared camera is able to demonstrate the structure of the small oil producing glands in your eyelids, measure the thickness of the oil layer in your tears, and monitor how effectively

ow do you know if you have dry eye? Symptoms vary from person to person and often change throughout the day. Symptoms may include itching, irritation, a gritty sensation, sensitivity to light, and fluctuating vision. A reduction in the length of comfortable contact lens wearing time is an early sign. Contrary to what you might think, dryness often causes your eyes to become watery. Dry eye has many causes, including computer use, hormonal changes, age, medications, environmental factors, medical conditions, contact lens wear, or a history of eye surgery. In this day and age, it is nearly impossible for most of us to survive without using a computer or some sort of digital device. Unfortunately, they are common culprits of your irritated eyes. Blinking is essential for activating the small oil producing glands in your eyelids and spreading those oils smoothly across the surface of your eye. When you use a computer or a digital device, your blink rate naturally drops. When your blink rate is chronically reduced, the oils can become thickened, causing the quality of your tears to degrade dramatically. Thickened oils can also cause your vision to fluctuate. More than half of all people with diabetes have dry eye, and it is highly associated with autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease. Some eye doctors 42

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you blink. A small device is able to capture a tiny amount of your tears and measure the osmolarity, or “how salty” your tears are. Increased osmolarity of your tears is a sure sign of dry eye. Photographs taken of your ocular surface can show you how dry eye is affecting the quality of your tears and possibly causing damage to your cornea, the front surface of your eye. Treatment of dry eye is based on the disease severity and the cause of the dryness. For some people, simply changing their environment or medications can improve symptoms. Over-the-counter lubricating drops may be used for mild cases. If you are using over-the-counter lubricating drops daily or have persistent symptoms, you should see your eye doctor to determine if any additional treatments are needed. Anti-redness drops are not an effective dry eye treatment as they can cause more redness in the long term. Determining the cause of the redness is the best option. Prescription eye drops can help to reduce inflammation and increase the eyes’ natural ability to produce tears. They work differently than over-the-counter eye drops and have given many people the relief that they have been seeking. Tear duct plugs can be inserted into the small holes in the eyelids where the tears drain out. This painless, reversible procedure is quickly done in the office and is a great alternative for people who dislike or are unable to use eye drops or need treatments in addition to tears. Tear duct plugs help to keep the tears on the surface of the eyes for a longer period of time.

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LipiFlow is a revolutionary procedure that eliminates any obstructions present in the oil producing glands, bringing significant relief to those who have been suffering from dry eye symptoms. Omega 3 supplementation and eyelid warming are very effective at improving the function of the oil producing glands in the eyelids. Eyelid cleansing is an important aspect of dry eye management. Discuss with your eye doctor if any specific eyelid cleansing products would be of benefit to you. Traditional contact lenses can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. However, therapeutic contact lenses such as scleral lenses or bandage contact lenses may be able to improve dry eye by protecting the surface of the eye and providing continual moisture throughout the day. Blinking exercises sound silly, but they are an important component of managing dry eye, as many people with dry eye do not blink enough or effectively. You do not have to merely accept dry eye symptoms as a normal part of aging or contact lens wear. While there is no cure for dry eye, many options are available to improve comfort. In general, early treatment for a chronic disease like dry eye is more likely to achieve a better outcome. Discuss your symptoms and concerns with your eye doctor who will be your best resource for determining the necessary steps toward a healthier ocular surface.  Samantha K. McPherson, OD, FAAO is the founder of Dry Eye Center of NC, a subspecialty clinic of McPherson Family Eye Care. For more information, visit www.mcphersonfamilyeyecare.com.

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HOLIDAY PLANTS

BEYOND THE

POINSETTIA

BY TINA MAST

Though celebrating the Christmas season hardly seems possible without a few magnificent poinsettias festooned about the house and hearth (see their care instructions at the end of this article), there are other plants that can also help you spread joy during the holidays. These lovely bloomers add to your décor and enliven spaces during the season when we spend most of our time inside.

AMARYLLIS Three amaryllis grown together in a beautiful shallow bowl are absolutely unforgettable. No holiday flower is more glamorous and stunning. However, you need to plant them and get them going by early to mid-November if you want blooms in time for Christmas; but they can be the highlight of any winter month. If you buy amaryllis in its dormant state, as a bulb, prep it for planting by soaking the roots in water for a couple hours before planting. Choose a container about one inch larger than the bulb and which has a drainage hole. (You can always situate that pot inside a more decorative cachepot or bowl for added holiday decorating flair.) Fill the bottom of the pot with potting mix and set the bulb on top. However you situate it, the result should be that the soil line is just even with the bottom of the “neck” of the bulb, leaving about a third of it exposed, and the neck of the bulb should be about even with the rim of the pot. Water thoroughly and drain off excess water. Place your amaryllis in a cool, bright location, and water sparingly until the stem appears. Then, as leaves and bud appear, gradually water more often. Dump excess water in the saucer or cachepot within an hour or so of watering. Once the glorious blooms appear, cut them off as they fade in order to increase the life of the remaining flowers. 44

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You may need to provide support to the flower stems if they start to flop over (a sign of not enough light) by staking them with plant stakes and twine or some pretty raffia. After blooming is finished, put the plant in your sunniest indoor location. Amaryllis are hardy to about 10°F, once established in the garden, which means most of the time they are hardy here. So, if you wish, you can plant them out in the garden in late spring where they can naturalize and become spring bloomers. Plant them 5”-6” deep in a well-drained spot and, in fall, mulch them well. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly fall through April.

CYCLAMEN These will charm almost anyone with their lovely patterned, heartshaped leaves and flowers, like a flock of colorful butterflies fluttering over them. Cyclamen like a cool spot with plenty of indirect light. An east window away from a heat vent is a good place for these holiday blooms. Ideal temperatures are between 40°F and 50°F at night and less than 68°F during the day. Water cyclamen from the bottom by placing the pot in a deep saucer and pouring water into it. Allow the plant to soak up water for at least 10 minutes and then pour off the excess. Keep these festive plants moderately moist during growth and flowering, but do not allow their roots to sit in water. Fertilize them every three to four weeks with a half-strength solution of water-soluble fertilizer labeled for indoor plants. Remove dead flowers with a sharp tug on the stems. If the stalk doesn’t budge, wait a day or two before trying again. Most people discard their cyclamen once the plants stop blooming and the leaves begin to turn yellow, a sign that the plant is preparing to go dormant.

CHRISTMAS CACTUS A classic holiday flower, the Christmas cactus boasts pretty succulents that will live forever just about and produce a brightly

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colored show of pink, lilac, red, coral, or white blooms in fall and/or winter. The Christmas cactus prefers a spot with bright but indirect light. Keep it moderately moist during growth and flowering, and fertilize every two to three weeks with fertilizer formulated for cacti. In the winter months, after they bloom, water thoroughly but only when the top half of the soil mix has become dry. Holiday cactus blooms best if somewhat potbound, which means they like having their roots crowded in the pot. Summer is a good time to re-pot your cactus, if it needs it, and you only need to use the next size up from the current container. Be sure to use a potting mix labeled for succulents and/or cacti. You can keep holiday cactus outside in a shady spot during the summer – in fact, this is ideal. To get them to bloom for the holidays, you need to trick Christmas cacti a bit since flowering is related to day length and nighttime temperatures. Starting in early October, and no later than early November, keep the plant in a location where night temperatures are 55°-60°F for six weeks. As long as temperatures remain in this range, buds will develop, regardless of day length. Or, if that isn’t practical, place the plant in a dark room or cover it with a box for 13 hours a day starting in October. Buds will develop in early winter, at which point you can move them to where you want them. While it’s certainly understandable that you may want to stick with the traditional when it comes to decorating with holiday plants, don’t be afraid to think outside of the box a little this year – after all, ’tis the season for beauty and good cheer, and nothing helps brings these about like beautiful flowers.

POINSETTIA CARE – Avoid exposing poinsettias to extreme cold. Your vehicle should be warm when transporting. – Place them in a room with sufficient natural light to read fine print. Poinsettias will droop and may develop yellow leaves if the light is too low. – Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry to the touch. Do not leave plants sitting in excess water. – Avoid drafts or excess heat from fireplaces, appliances, or ventilation ducts. – To prolong their color and longevity, room temperatures should not exceed a daytime temperature of 74°F and not below 60°F at night.  Tina Mast is communications director for Homewood Nursery & Garden Center and can be reached at 919- 847-0117 or by email at info@homewoodnursery.com.

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As we all know, holidays tend to equal food – lots and lots of good food. But we don’t need to over splurge. When attending holiday parties, pick and choose healthier appetizers. These are small food items that will satisfy your taste buds; but be wary of fried foods, heavy cheeses, sauces, and creams. Choose more wholesome foods such as fresh fruits and veggies, baked or grilled meats, and wholewheat versus white breads. Choose healthier dips such as hummus or yogurt options. As for meats, try to avoid saltier choices such as ham and pepperoni, which can cause fluid retention. Chicken is usually my go-to healthy choice. And whenever you have the chance, choose salads, either at the party or beforehand. This will help to fill you, thus decrease the chances of your grazing. Not worried about holiday parties, but more so of day-to-day life? Not sure how to get started? There are numerous cooking classes offered around the Triangle. Check out community colleges, culinary schools, and kitchen supply stores for schedules.

BY MONIQUE M. ROGERS

EAT, DRINK

AND BE

HEALTHY HOW TO STAY ON TRACK WHILE STILL ENJOYING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

any people get stumped with staying on a healthy track in fall, winter, and around the holidays, what with all the delicious food and drinks served in abundance at the many merriments taking place this time of year, and the less than comfortable outdoor temperatures discouraging us from getting a little fresh air and exercise. But the upcoming season of celebrating doesn’t mean you have to steer away from the healthy lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to achieve or maintain. In addition to drinking plenty of water, watching your sodium intake, and getting plenty of rest, here are some other healthy options to keep in mind as you navigate the next few months of fun and festivities. 46

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Local farmers markets offer fresh produce and healthy food choices for you and your family. Too busy to shop? Many companies now offer home delivery of fresh produce and homegrown honey, salsas, and treats that help making healthier food choices easier. Some offer organic products, provide online ordering, and automatic payment options … research the produce choice that is best for you. Need someone else to do your cooking during this very hectic time of year? Local companies offer pre-made food options that can be picked up, brought home, and cooked with their directions. Even local grocery stores are making this a convenience for their customers. In addition, many area bodybuilding, CrossFit, and diet programs also sell pre-made meals or show participants how to measure everyday food options for healthy snacks and meals. Being healthy isn’t only about eating right. Exercise is also a must for a physically fit lifestyle. An array of gyms, CrossFit programs, yoga, karate, kickboxing, and even circus-type exercise programs can be found throughout our region. If you aren’t interested in a gym membership, simply lace up a good pair of sneakers and get walking. You can walk indoors or out, depending on the weather … if it’s too chilly or rainy, head on over to the local mall – it offers the space and just the right temperature for a hearty jaunt. If it’s a nice cool autumn morning, throw on an extra layer and trek around one of our area’s many trails and parks while enjoying the magnificent autumn scenery. The many trails, while great for walking, are also ideal for jogging, biking, and hiking as well. Some parks even offer advanced athletic bars and gym permanent hardware to change the pace of your workout. Exercise doesn’t have to sound tedious and daunting. It can actually be fun. Participate in a new activity through your town’s parks and recreation programs. Think dancing is your thing? Research

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classes near you for ballroom, swing, shag, line dancing, ballet and barre, and more. Want to test your strength? Why not give indoor rock climbing a try? Remember how you felt roller skating or iceskating as a youngster? Dust off those old skates and head on over to the local rink for a spin. And if swimming is your fitness choice, check out various indoor options available around the Triangle. In this digital age, it’s easier to keep track of your food intake, exercise habits, and daily steps. Many people wear manual step counters around their waists or on their wrists, while others use their smart phones (recommended apps include “My Fitness Pal” and “Calorie King”). Another key to staying on track during the holiday season, as well as anytime throughout the year, is having an accountable partner. Meet up with a friend for an athletic activity a couple of times a week, or to enjoy a healthy meal, trying healthier restaurants or food options that you never before considered. Better yet, meet over coffee, tea, or healthy smoothies instead of a whole meal – this will not only save you calories, but also money. Continue socializing while walking at a local park or around a lake. And remember that Christmas shopping, walking dogs, parking far away – it all counts. Take your loved ones along on your well-being path by organizing healthy food and exercise options. For instance, plan a family

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skate night instead of a movie night. Enjoy a healthy meal before going trick-or-treating on Halloween, or before you venture to the neighbor’s annual Christmas open house. Let them help by researching and helping to prepare snack, meal, and dessert options the whole family can enjoy. It’s easy to get stumped while trying to stay on track this time of year, but mentally making the choice to change food and exercise options is the key. It definitely takes time, but seeing and feeling the improvements are the rewards. Remember that this is a season of joy, celebration, and togetherness. It’s a time to enjoy good food and good company, while making wonderful memories. So go ahead and take people up on those many party invitations that will be coming soon. Just keep these tips in mind while you’re celebrating … they will certainly help you enjoy a healthy holiday season.  Monique M. Rogers is a creative and technical writer. She holds an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts with emphasis in journalism and a Bachelor’s of Arts in English. She also received a diploma in graphic design and desktop publishing, and owns a freelance writing and event coordinating business, Monique M. Rogers, LLC. Her most recent achievement was earning a certificate as an EKG Technician and Monitor. Contact Monique at monique.m.rogers@gmail.com or visit www.moniquemrogers.com to read her “My Midlife” blog and see other writing and event coordinating samples.

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FALLING FORWARD

ome of you probably thought, “No, it is fall back, spring forward,” when you read this title. That is true about Daylight Savings Time, but that is not the focus of this article. While Daylight Savings Time will end during this quarter and we will fall back to shorter days, I recommend that we “fall forward” in our approach to this season and the one that follows. Let’s embrace fall and winter, and not allow ourselves to become dormant … there is much that can be accomplished in these few months. Fall began in September with children back in traditional schools, crisp air with cool mornings and nights, and leaves turning color and beginning to fall. Fall is in full force in October – pumpkins herald the first holiday of the season, with the ghosts and goblins of Halloween welcoming October. Halloween makes way for November and Thanksgiving, when families and friends gather around tables laden with food and blessings. And finally December brings Kwanza, Hanukkah, and Christmas, with people of many faiths celebrating their beliefs. October, November, and December are glorious months, filled with holidays and celebrations that encourage us to focus on family, traditions, and all that is good in our lives. While we are doing so, we should reach out and help those who are less fortunate, some lacking even necessities. While this is a season of abundance for many, it isn’t for all. While fall is a time of holidays and celebrations, it is also a good time to take stock of how we are doing in our commitments that we made earlier in the year, which we often call our New Year’s Resolutions. With three months left in 2017, we still have time to course correct. What did we plan for this year, and how much have we accomplished? Many of us may need to admit that there isn’t enough time left in this year to accomplish all our goals, but we can make progress if we recommit to what is doable. To some, that is the million-dollar question … what is doable? When facing what can seem insurmountable, it is best to break those things down into manageable pieces. Let’s not think, “What 48

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BY PATTI FRALIX

is really possible in only three months, especially these three months with so many priorities? How can I add one more thing to my already overcommitted schedule?” Instead, let’s think, “It is possible that by recommitting to my priorities established earlier in the year, I can make significant progress toward my goals.” There are three New Year’s Resolution that are very common – losing weight, saving money, and de-cluttering. It is possible to make major progress toward our goals in each of these areas in the three remaining months of this year. Breaking three months down into manageable chunks is recognizing that three months includes 12 weeks. It is quite possible

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Happy m u H e s

storical M u Hi

Decluttering may be even easier than losing weight and saving money. One way to declutter is to clean out our closets of the clothes we no longer wear but are still in good condition, and donate those items to others who can use them. This will also accomplish a point made earlier, helping those less fortunate.

f s r o y m a d i th ol

We can also refuse to bring more stuff in unless and until we take out at least an equal amount. We can even change our spending habits and accomplish two goals at once, decluttering and saving money. What if we purchase experiences instead of stuff for our loved ones? While all experiences are not less expensive than tangible items, some are. We can be creative in this. I recognize that making and keeping commitments to eat less, spend less, and reduce clutter will not be easy in this season, as this is the season of abundance. There will be many detractions that can get us off course in keeping our commitments to ourselves. But it is possible. We can fall forward and embrace this season of change by changing ourselves.  Patti Fralix speaks, consults, and coaches, inspiring positive changeSM in work, life, and family. She is founder and president of The Fralix Group, Inc., a leadership excellence firm based in Raleigh, and author of A Year in the Life of a Recovering Spendaholic. She can be reached at pfralix@fralixgroup.com.

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for most people to lose one pound a week just by paying attention to what they eat, and eliminating something. That ‘‘something” can be bread and butter, sweets, or fried foods. If done, it is likely that the weight loss will exceed one pound per week. I know this is not easy in this season with all the focus on food, but “easy” wasn’t a requirement! The same is possible about saving money. Do the math with whatever amount is possible to you. Most of us can save a few dollars a week just by paying attention to how we waste money, and determining to stop doing so.

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OUR HERITAGE REVISITED WHERE HISTORY AND MEMORY LIE IN REPOSE BY AMY PIERCE “Our Heritage” is reprinting and updating earlier articles as a way of introducing a ballooning newcomer population to Wake Forest history and culture.

he Wake Forest Cemetery sits atop a little hill just north of downtown. Within its boundaries and beneath its 29 different tree species, both history and memory lie in repose. If one has eyes to see and ears to hear, and possibly a well-informed guide, its meandering, gravel-lined paths will lead one into and through the still-alive history of Wake Forest. Established soon after the 1834 birth of Wake Forest College, the little cemetery was laid out and developed by the students of the two Literary Societies. The earliest marked gravesite is that of Charles R. Merriam (1837), brother of Sarah Merriam Wait, wife of Samuel Wait, the college’s first president. Just beyond its property boundary was the segregated African American Cemetery, now called The Mangum Cemetery. Until recent years, the two were separated by wire fencing. Containing slave graves as well as those of free people of color, the Mangum Cemetery joins with the Olive Branch Baptist Church cemetery to the north and extends across Taylor Street to the east, where it is now referred to as the Alston Cemetery. A walk among the graves here reveals familiar Wake Forest names; Young, Gill, Massenburg, Jefferys, Alston, Jones, Lewis. Both Mangum and Alston are now part of the Wake Forest Cemetery. “Shaded by hemlock and elm, oak and cedar, maple and walnut are the graves of four Wake Forest College presidents, more than thirty-five faculty, numerous students, administrators, staff, and their families. If you know much at all about Wake Forest history, you’ll recognize the names of Wait, Taylor, Poteat and Wingate, the four presidents whose graves are here, along with that of Dr. Charles Brewer, who later became president of Meredith College. Other well-known names include Paschal, Isbell, Royall, Gulley, Lake, Earnshaw, Crittenden, Timberlake… Together, they and others form the ever-entwined roots of a nationally known university and the town that nurtured it, and their combined service to Wake Forest totals more than one thousand years. “At rest, too, in the little cemetery are soldiers and students whose family plots had been desecrated during the War Between the States. 50 50

Knowing that the college would take care of their sons, families requested their burial be here. The combined cemeteries hold, as well, unmarked graves from this era, both soldier and slave.” So states Allen H. Patterson, Jr. in The Wake Forest Cemetery: Fifty-Two Stones, One Thousand Years of Service. Moving forward through the years, we find representation of other wars and events, and engraved upon time are names that matter just as much as the more recognized ones, representing the never-ordinary lives of the less well-known citizen. Whatever names these stones hold, each life counted, each life contributed to the Wake Forest we have come to know and love, as well as to the wider world. “Fortunately, there have been few major changes to the Wake Forest Cemetery, still a sanctuary, a living classroom of nature, horticulture, and history, burial place, historic site, and arboretum – all keys to its continuation as one of Wake Forest’s treasures.” Strolling beneath the canopy that embraces the little cemetery on the hill, when you see the two stones representing each literary society standing in the northeast corner, along with the other sites honoring lives well-lived and loved, may you be reminded that, as Thornton Wilder wrote: “All that we know about those we have loved and lost is that they would wish us to remember them with a more intensified realization of their reality. What is essential does not die but clarifies. The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.” The living history of the town of Wake Forest is reflected in this place, assuring that neither time, nor we, will forget, surely something to be grateful for.  Thanks to Allen H. Patterson, Jr., for permission to quote liberally from his book, The Wake Forest Cemetery: Fifty-Two Stones, One Thousand Years of Service (published 2002 by Allen H. Patterson). Thanks also to Susan Brinkley. Photo by Betty Pearce. Amy Pierce lives in Wake Forest’s Mill Village, where she is a writer, minister, and spiritual counselor. She can be reached at 919-554-2711 or visit www.authenticself.us.

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